We hear so much about how stringent the church is, how unreasonable in her strictures, how strict in her unreasonableness. But there is no institution so unforgiving as the secular world at this, the most wonderful time of the year.

‘Now, I know I’m not the most grateful person you know, God, so let me take some time to tell you what I’m thankful for.’

The future demands faith. Either we summon it and nurture it, or fear will rule our final days.

Marge Fenelon talks about her book “Forgiving Mother: A Marian Novena of Healing and Peace.”