December Cover

Advent: easy, fun, and spiritual ways to celebrate
Reconnect with your family and faith this holiday season


Christmas Eve
Prayer

Lord of light,

shine on us;
Lord of peace,

dwell in us;
Lord of might,

protect us;
Lord of love,

enfold us;
Lord of wisdom, enlighten us.
Then, Lord,

let us go out

as your witnesses,
in obedience to

your command;
to share the good news of your

mighty love for us
in the gift of your son,
our savior,

Jesus Christ.


Amen



(Prayer from livingwithchrist.us)



Fourth week of Advent - Merry Christmas!

Add the traditional O Antiphons to your prayer

family prayerThe O Antiphons are sung or recited every day from December 17 to 23, each day highlighting a Scripture title for the Lord Jesus. Encourage your family to try their hands at creating different titles for Jesus that come from your own lives and thoughts (examples: "Gentle Healer;" "Loving Friend"). Create an ornament for each of the O Antiphons and for the titles you've created to hang on your tree.  Click here for traditional O Antiphons


Celebrate your parents and parental figures

grandpa hugMary and Joseph faced many challenges when they said "yes" to God in accepting Jesus. They also gave Jesus a home, food, and lots of love. How have your parents, grandparents, or other parental figures made a difference in your life? Tell them how much you appreciate them, whether with a card or letter, a special get-together, or a gift that reflects your gratitude in a personal way. Click here to visit catholicdigest.com and read inspiring stories about parents, grandparents, godparents, and more



Bake holiday bambino bread

Bambino breadMake something special to share with family and friends this Christmas. This bread recipe (by Father Dominic Garramone, OSB) involves braiding the dough so the finished product resembles the baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes. Celebrate the arrival of Jesus by baking and sharing this unique holiday treat. Click here for the recipe



Make sure to check catholicdigest.com throughout the holiday season for more Advent and Christmas related features!