Memory, Majesty & Mystery

By Sr. Mary Valerie Schneider
December 6, 2012

The Church celebrates three major comings of Christ during Advent: the historical coming of Jesus born 2000 years ago (Memory), the Second Coming (Majesty), and his coming in to our lives moment by moment (Mystery).

There are many reminders of Jesus’ historical coming: manger scenes, Christmas trees, Christmas plays, Advent calendars, and more. The Second Coming stays pretty much under our radar. What should hit us between the eyes is the Mystery of Christ among us in his Word, in the Eucharist, in other people. God can mysteriously sneak up on us is thousands of ways: lyrics of a song, advice of a friend, opportunity for service, collections for the needy, a hug, an idea, a gorgeous sky, a new snowfall. Memory, Majesty, Mystery. May your Advent be filled with good things because of your goodness!

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The Happiest Words in the Bible

By Sr. Mary Valerie Schneider
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A few days ago I wrote about the saddest words in the Bible. Today let’s look at the happiest words. Many words could be called “happiest”: the salutation of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, the greeting between Elizabeth and Mary, the baby talk of Joseph and Mary on Christmas, the

By Sr. Mary Valerie Schneider
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Take the Precious Feet message to a higher level: If you have seen the episode from The Chosen in which Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, anoints the feet of Jesus, perhaps you felt with her the anxiety of all eyes upon you. You heard indignant whispers: “What a

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As Sisters of Notre Dame, Mary is a model for us as we seek to experience and express God’s goodness and provident care in the unfolding of each day. Join us on the journey!

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