Dear Readers,

On this feast of the Holy Innocents, we wish a holy and fruitful Christmas Season to all! May the celebration of His birth renew His peace and grace within you. Please enjoy our reflections on Advent, Birthdays, and the gifts of the Nativity.

—The Editors

File:Chasse avec le massacre des Innocents et des anges (Louvre, OA 10406).jpg — Casket with the massacre of the Innocents and the angels. France, late 12th century. Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

On the Feast of Stephen: Sts. Stephen and Wenceslas

The link between St. Stephen and King Wenceslas is actually quite fitting, as both share a love of charity and the poor, a concern to spread and confess the Catholic faith, and the same fate as martyrs. Read about these two saints here!

Laudate Dominum!

The tapestry of the liturgy is always woven in a way that reflects eternity: the times of the liturgical year are all tied to things in the future and the past. God deigns to show us, in concrete signs embedded in human history, what we are to do in the time and place we are in. Read about receiving Christmas graces here and now.

Why Celebrate Birthdays?

Our Lord’s birthday celebrates the visible beginning of our salvation. But what about our own birthdays? What and why should we be celebrating them? Ponder the question here.

People, Look East: Advent and the Altar

A beloved Advent hymn reflects both our liturgical worship traditions, and our looking forward to Hope. Read on here.

We Should Save Christmas for Christmas

Advent serves as a wonderful season of preparation and reflection. It is a time to do penance, to clean out the muck in the “stables” of our hearts, and to prepare a home for Christ to come. Consider why we should keep Christmas for Christmas, here.

Gaudium Magazine

Issue 022: Glad Tidings of Great Joy