What is the best Christmas gift? As this season of giving and receiving begins, what is indeed the best gift not only to ourselves, our families, but to Him? Aside from availing of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a unique gift is that of being a heart manger.

In this month of November we remember particularly the lives of saints. They are examples of those who have shown that despite their own frailties, God has saved, transformed and called them to His fullness of life and everlasting happiness.

October is the month of the Holy Rosary. It It is a meditative prayer on the life of Jesus through the eyes of His Mother. Catholics are encouraged to pray it daily.

The Blessed Virgin Mary is our compassionate Mother. Each of us can personally call out to her. She can aid in restoring our broken relationships with people we have experienced hurts with. As the Mother of God, she guides us towards Jesus.

Some people might ask, “Why do I have to go to a priest and confess my sins to him? Could I not go directly to God?” Why do we need the Sacrament of Penance?

For Catholics, the Holy Mass is mainly an obligation. How many of us actually look forward to it and truly experience it as a life-giving sacrament? I have been challenged to explore how this highest form of worship can help bind our wounds.

It is very easy to advise a friend to forgive. However, we know too well that it is not that simple in real life, especially if the hurt is very deep. How can one truly forgive?

Fear is something we all experience. How we deal with it can either bring us closer to God, with tthe help of the Blessed Mother, or separate us from Him. It is all a matter of faith and trust that God is always there for us.

A truly joyful person is one who leads a God-centered and meaningfully integrated life. It is a good practice to periodically check ourselves regarding where we are in our life’s journey. Spending some quiet time to seek enlightenment from the Holy Spirit is a worthwhile endeavor.