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May is a month overflowing with meaning — in the Church, in nature, and in the home. In this blog post, I want to offer a well-rounded and deeply intentional approach to liturgical living during this sacred and vibrant season. In it you will see the rich feast days of May, from Marian celebrations to beloved saints, grounding each one in tradition and offering ways to observe them meaningfully with your community. We also highlight springtime foods that are naturally in season this month — not just for taste, but to connect us to God’s rhythms in creation and the nourishment He provides. You’ll find ideas for Marian-inspired home decor that invite beauty and reverence into your space, anchoring your domestic church in the grace of Our Lady. Plus, we share lovely dresses and clothing choices that reflect both Mary’s virtues and the freshness of spring, making even how we dress a quiet act of devotion. And let's not forget the fasts and penitential days either — because joy and sacrifice walk hand in hand. And we share liturgical living traditions that help bridge the sacred and the ordinary. This isn’t just a list of things to do — it’s a holistic invitation to live May with intentionality, rooted in the Church, inspired by the season, and centered on Christ through Mary. If you see something you like in the collage, look for the links! These are not paid partnerships, I just share them because I like helping you find beautiful things. Like the dress? Get it here ! Marian Inspired Blue Floral Tablecloth Daisy Wreath Milk Glass Pendant Light Blue Floral Pillow Covers Want to learn more about the liturgical year and how we can dwell deeply in the seasons? Subscribe for more ideas, theology, and tips or you can follow on IG or FB.

Want to learn more about the liturgical and Catholic customs that take place after a Pope passes away? Check out part one here and part two here ! And if you like learning the how and the why of our Catholic liturgical life, I invite you to join us on your favorite platform. You can subscribe to His Girl Sunday or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.

Want to learn more about the liturgical and Catholic customs of a conclave ? Check out the that blog post before you leave! And if you like learning the how and the why of our Catholic liturgical life, I invite you to join us on your favorite platform. You can subscribe to His Girl Sunday or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.

Want to learn more liturgical and Catholic customs when a Pope passes away? Check out the 2nd part in this mini-series. And if you like learning the how and the why of our Catholic liturgical life, I invite you to join us on your favorite platform. You can subscribe to His Girl Sunday or follow along on Facebook or Instagram.

By the time we reach the Fourth Sunday of Lent—Laetare Sunday—we can feel Lent’s weight. We’ve been fasting, praying, and giving alms for weeks now, and Easter still seems far away. If you’ve been struggling, you’re not alone. The Church, in her wisdom, knows that we need a little encouragement at this point, and that’s exactly what Laetare Sunday offers. This Sunday is different from the others in Lent. The penitential purple gives way to joyful rose vestments, the music may feel a little lighter, and the word “Rejoice!” (which is what Laetare means) is proclaimed in the entrance antiphon. But why? And how can we truly live out this joy in our homes and hearts? Let’s dive into the meaning of Laetare Sunday, its history, and some practical ways to celebrate it with your family. What Is Laetare Sunday? Laetare Sunday is the halfway point of Lent, a moment of joyful anticipation amid our penitential journey. The name comes from the opening words of the Introit (entrance antiphon) of the Mass: "Laetare, Jerusalem! Rejoice, O Jerusalem! Be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her." (Isaiah 66:10-11) This isn’t just a nice thought—it’s a profound theological reality. The Church is telling us to lift our heads, to recognize that our sacrifices and sufferings are leading somewhere. Easter is near. The Resurrection is coming. We are not meant to dwell in sorrow forever , and even in the midst of penance, joy is possible. Liturgically, this Sunday mirrors Gaudete Sunday in Advent. Just as Gaudete Sunday gives us a taste of the joy of Christmas, Laetare Sunday reminds us that Lent is not meant to be endless gloom but a path leading us to the victory of Christ. A Little History: The “Golden Rose” Tradition Laetare Sunday has been marked by a special papal tradition dating back to at least the 11th century—the blessing of the Golden Rose. Popes would bless a golden rose and send it as a gift to Catholic rulers or significant churches, symbolizing the joy and hope of the season. This custom, though not as commonly practiced today, reinforces the idea that joy is a gift meant to be shared. The rose vestments that priests wear on this day connect to this same theme. The somber purple of penance is lightened, pointing us toward the glory ahead. The color reminds us that suffering and joy are intertwined —Jesus’ Passion leads to the Resurrection. Living Out Laetare Sunday in Your Home The liturgical life of the Church isn’t just meant to take place in the church itself—it’s meant to shape how we live in our homes, too. Laetare Sunday is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and bring a little foretaste of Easter’s joy into our everyday lives. Here are a few ways to do that: 1. Lighten the Atmosphere at Home Since Laetare Sunday is about lifting our spirits, let your home reflect that! Open the curtains, let in fresh air, set fresh flowers on the table, and maybe even bring out a pink candle or tablecloth as a nod to the rose vestments. 2. Enjoy a Slightly Festive Meal While we are still in Lent, the Church allows for a small reprieve on Laetare Sunday. If you’ve been abstaining from treats, consider making a special dessert—something light and joyful, like a fruit tart or a cake with pink frosting. A rosé wine or sparkling cider could also be a nice addition. 3. Pray the Laetare Introit as a Family Before or after dinner, read aloud the entrance antiphon: "Rejoice, O Jerusalem! Be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice with her in joy, all you who mourn over her." Talk about what this means for your Lenten journey. How has Lent been going? Where have you seen God’s grace? Where do you need encouragement? 4. Reflect on the Joy of Salvation Take a moment to read John 3:14-21 or Ephesians 2:4-10 as a family or in personal prayer. These passages highlight the mercy and love of God, reminding us that our sacrifices are not in vain. 5. Acts of Joyful Charity One of the best ways to live out Laetare Sunday is to spread joy. Consider reaching out to someone who could use encouragement—a friend, a family member, or a fellow parishioner who might be struggling this Lent. A simple text, call, or even an old-fashioned letter can brighten someone’s day. 6. Reflect on What It Means to Rejoice in the Lord We often think of joy as an emotion, but in the Christian life, joy is a virtue, an interior disposition . Laetare Sunday invites us to recognize that even amid suffering, we have reason to rejoice—because Jesus has already won the victory. Take a Breath, And Let's Keep Going Laetare Sunday is a breath of fresh air in Lent, a day when the Church reminds us to press on toward Easter with hope. It’s a time to lift our heads, take a deep breath, and remember that the sacrifices we make are leading us to something glorious. So, as you go about your day, let joy find a home in your heart. Smile a little more. Laugh with your family. Pray with gratitude. And above all, remember—you are walking toward the light of Christ, and that is always a reason to rejoice. Laetare, Jerusalem! Would you like to celebrate Laetare Sunday in a special way this year? Let me know in the comments how you plan to bring joy into your home!

As Lent approaches, many of us are seeking to deepen our spiritual practices and draw closer to our faith. Whether you're looking for guidance, inspiration, or reflection during this sacred season, books can be invaluable companions on your Lenten journey. Idea: Household Book Stacks or Baskets Something that I like to do at the start of a new liturgical season is to freshen up our prayer corner with a book stack that fits the themes and topics we are approaching. For Lent, we delve into the usual trifecta of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, but we also give consideration to themes like self-discipline, communion with God, and transformative suffering. These seasonal stacks can be done for anyone in your household, whether it be for yourself, your spouse, or children. It's beneficial for everyone to sit and spend time with a good book. When I was teaching littles I would put together book baskets for the children with carefully chosen reading materials that would help them grow at an age appropriate level. They loved taking their little baskets to a cozy corner with pillows and stuffed animals to enjoy quiet reading time. Tip: Reading Routine and Timers Especially for children it might be helpful for you to set a regular reading time and I have found in my years as a teacher that having a reading timer is also useful to create positive expectations for how long quiet reading time will be. This will also give you the relatively uninterrupted quiet reading time that you need too. Here are some book recommendations to help enrich your Lenten experience. If there is a book that you'd like to share with us please put that in the comments. Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may go to Heaven. -St. Rose of Lima Lenten Book Recommendations for Spiritual Growth Trusting in Jesus: This beautiful journal will help cultivate intentional prayer by providing daily Scripture and prayer prompts for the forty days (as well as the six Sundays) leading up to Easter, fostering joy and gratitude for what Jesus has done through His death and resurrection. Festive Faith: Festive Faith is a treasury of more than seventy festive traditions celebrated in various cultural groups during specific seasons or on particular days of our liturgical year. For each one, Aquila shares a brief history, a description of what the custom involves, and practical adaptations for celebrating it today. She tells you the why and the how of these traditions and shares tips on how to make them accessible, attainable, and authentic for everyone in your household, neighborhood, and parish communities. Divine Intimacy : This Book of Meditations is a classic and is seeped in Carmelite spirituality. For every day it offers two meditations, in liturgical arrangement, that enable the soul to enter the conscious presence of God and to reflect on the theme of the day. The Bible Lent and Easter Wisdom from St. Pope John Paul II : Each daily reflection--from Ash Wednesday through the Second Sunday of Easter--begins with thoughts from Pope John Paul II on some appropriate theme, supported by Scripture, a prayer, and a suggested activity for spiritual growth. Mary, Teach Me to Be Your Daughter : Offers inspiration to live out Mary’s virtues with prayerfulness and peace. You will find themselves drawn closer to the Blessed Mother and uncover new depths to their relationship with her and her Son. The Passion of Christ Through the Eyes of Mary : You will find two of the most stirring revelations of Christ’s passion and death ever recorded by Doctors of the Church—Saint Anselm, the Magnificent Doctor, along with writings attributed to Saint Bernard, the Mellifluous Doctor. These private revelations given by Our Lady will enhance one’s prayer life while drawing one deeper into the passion narratives of the Gospels. The Little Way of Lent : While reading the autobiography of St. Thérèse, Fr. Caster had an 'ah ha' moment that transformed his experience of Lent from one of narrow concern over what to give up to one of joyful freedom to enter into the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. "What struck me," he says, "was her insistence on the way we do things for God and not the things we do for him. It wasn't about what I was offering; it was about why." In Sinu Jesu : In Sinu Jesu recounts the graces experienced in the life of one priest through the healing and strengthening power of Eucharistic adoration. At the same time, it issues an urgent call to all priests—and, indeed, to all Christians—to be renewed in holiness through adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament and consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces. Introduction to the Devout Life : A book to be read with pencil in hand again and again. It is a book to make your guide for the rest of your life. It goes to the heart of becoming good. Its aim is to help you be rid of sin and even the inclinations to sin. The Tears of Christ : "Jesus wept, not merely from the deep thoughts of his understanding but from spontaneous tenderness, from the goodness and mercy, the encompassing loving-kindness and exuberant a ffect ion of the Son of God for his own work, the race of man.'' This precious insight takes us to the heart of the interior life of St. John Henry Newman (1801-1890), from the treasures of which these meditations are offered as a devotional aid for the season of Lent. Life of Christ by Fulton Sheen : Hailed as the most eloquent of Fulton J. Sheen's many books. The fruit of many years of reflection, prayer, and research, it is a dramatic and moving recounting of the birth, life, Crucifixion, and Resurrection of Christ, and a passionate portrait of the God-Man, the teacher, the healer, and, most of all, the Savior, whose promise has sustained humanity for two millenia. Confessions by St. Augustine : The autobiography of his early life in a time of gratuitous indulgence and sin. Having rigorously engaged in such a life, before converting and being baptised into Christianity, Augustine is perhaps one of the most relatable saints of all time. The Screwtape Letters : C.S. Lewis gives us the correspondence of the wordly-wise devil to his nephew Wormwood, a novice demon in charge of securing the damnation of an ordinary young man. The Screwtape Letters is the most engaging account of temptation—and triumph over it—ever written.  “Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one--the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts...Your affectionate uncle, Screwtape.” Tell me in the comments which of these books you've read and if any of them are your favorite. If you found this post helpful I invite you to subscribe for more or share this post. Every day I put out practical tips and tricks for engaging in the liturgical year with lots of theology to help you understand the "why." Welcome! 🙏

by Father William Saunders Shrove Tuesday is the last day of what traditionally was called "Shrovetide," the week preceding the beginning of Lent. The word itself, Shrovetide, is the English equivalent for "Carnival," which is derived from the Latin words carnem levare, meaning "to take away the flesh." (Note that in Germany, this period is called "Fasching," and in parts of the United States, particularly Louisiana, "Mardi Gras.") While this was seen as the last chance for merriment, and, unfortunately in some places, has resulted in excessive pleasure, Shrovetide was the time to cast off things of the flesh and to prepare spiritually for Lent. Actually, the English term provides the best meaning for this period. "To shrive" meant to hear confessions. In the Anglo-Saxon "Ecclesiastical Institutes," recorded by Theodulphus and translated by Abbot Aelfric about AD 1000, Shrovetide was described as follows: "In the week immediately before Lent everyone shall go to his confessor and confess his deeds and the confessor shall so shrive him as he then may hear by his deeds what he is to do in the way of penance." To highlight the point and motivate the people, special plays or masques were performed which portrayed the passion of our Lord or final judgment. Clearly, this Shrovetide preparation for Lent included the confessing of sin and the reception of absolution; as such, Lent then would become a time for penance and renewal of faith. While this week of Shrovetide condoned the partaking of pleasures from which a person would abstain during Lent, Shrove Tuesday had a special significance in England. Pancakes were prepared and enjoyed, because in so doing a family depleted their eggs, milk, butter, and fat which were part of the Lenten fast. At this time, some areas of the Church abstained from all forms of meat and animal products, while others made exceptions for food like fish. For example, Pope St. Gregory (d. 604), writing to St. Augustine of Canterbury, issued the following rule: "We abstain from flesh, meat, and from all things that come from flesh, as milk, cheese, and eggs." These were the fasting rules governing the Church in England; hence, the eating of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. Keep in mind, for this same reason, Easter was celebrated with decorated eggs and fresh breads. Another interesting note surrounding the Easter egg, just as an aside, is that it symbolized the resurrection: just as a little chick pecks its way out from the egg shell to emerge to new life, so Christ emerged from the tomb to new and everlasting life. One last point: When the "carnival" or "mardi gras" became for some people a debauched party, the Church tried to restore the penitential nature of this time. In 1748, Pope Benedict XIV instituted the "Forty Hours of Carnival," whereby prayers were offered and the Blessed Sacrament was exposed in churches during the three days preceding Ash Wednesday. In a letter entitled, "Super Bacchanalibus," he granted a plenary indulgence to anyone who adored the exposed Blessed Sacrament by offering prayers and making atonement for sins. As we prepare to begin Lent, perhaps after a hearty dinner of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday, may we take time for extra prayer, particularly the Stations of the Cross, and various penances to overcome our weaknesses and to atone for our sins. Fr. Saunder is pastor of Our Lady of Hope Church in Potomac Falls. Copyright ©2004 Arlington Catholic Herald. All rights reserved.

Lent is a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—a time when we prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter. But let’s be honest: while many adults struggle to stay engaged throughout Lent, it can be even more challenging for children to understand and embrace this sacred season. That’s why I’m thrilled to share and support Hallow’s Lenten prayer challenge for kids: The Little Way . This brand-new offering from Hallow Kids is the biggest children’s prayer launch in their history, and it’s designed specifically for families with children ages 6-12. Through engaging, audio-guided meditations, The Little Way  helps kids journey closer to Christ in a way that speaks to their hearts and imaginations. A New Way to Pray as a Family Each day during Lent, children and families can listen to a new, immersive episode that introduces them to universal Church prayers, saint stories, and even kid-focused Sunday homilies from a priest. This challenge makes prayer not just accessible but truly enjoyable for young hearts and minds. At the heart of The Little Way  are two beloved characters, Paul and Mia, who serve as companions on this faith-filled journey. They explore new aspects of faith each day and meet a other characters along the way. Through their adventures, kids will not only learn about faith but also be encouraged to grow in love and virtue in their everyday lives—just as St. Thérèse of Lisieux taught through her own “little way.” Why ‘The Little Way’ is Perfect for Lent Lent is a season that calls all of us to deeper conversion, but often, we overcomplicate things. St. Thérèse reminds us that holiness isn’t about grand gestures but about doing small things with great love. This Lenten challenge helps children embrace that truth in a way that is meaningful and age-appropriate. Each session, which ranges from 7 to 15 minutes, can easily become part of a family’s morning routine, incorporated into bedtime prayers, or even used in Catholic school or parish classrooms. The simplicity and accessibility of this program make it a perfect addition to any family’s Lenten observance. More Than Just Listening—Building a Faith Community The Little Way  isn’t just about listening—it’s about living the faith. Families can also enjoy weekly Family Game Night activities on Saturdays, making Lent a time of both prayer and togetherness. These activities encourage conversation, strengthen family bonds, and help children apply what they are learning in their daily lives. And here’s the amazing part: over 13,000 families around the world have already signed up for The Little Way ! That means children everywhere are taking part in a shared experience of growing in holiness together. Join the Journey If you’re looking for a way to make Lent more engaging for your children, The Little Way  is a perfect solution. It provides the structure, guidance, and inspiration to help kids embrace prayer and grow closer to Jesus in a way that is joyful and meaningful. Hallow’s mission is to help families encounter Christ through prayer, and this Lenten challenge does exactly that. So why not make this Lent one to remember? Join thousands of families and begin The Little Way  on Ash Wednesday. Let’s help our children discover that holiness isn’t about doing big things—it’s about doing little things with great love. And that’s a lesson we all need, no matter our age.

Father Francis X. Weiser, S.J. on the Catholic custom of burying the Alleluia and why it is no longer sung during Lent. "Alleluia, or hallelujah, is one of the few Hebrew words adopted by the Christian Church from apostolic times. It means "Praise the Lord!" On Saturday before Septuagesima Sunday (the third Sunday before Lent) this ancient and hallowed exclamation of joy and praise in the Christian liturgy is officially discontinued in the Western Church to signify the approach of the solemn season of Lent.12 According to the regulation of Pope Alexander II (1073) the Alleluia is sung twice after the prayers of the Divine Office,13 and not heard again till the solemn vigil service of Easter, when it once more is used as a glorious proclamation of Easter joy. The Greek Church, however, still retains the Alleluia even in Lent. Usage of the Word Saint John the Evangelist mentioned alleluia in his Apocalypse (19, 1-6), and the early Church accepted the word from the beginning. From Jerusalem the custom of using it spread with the expanding Church into all nations. It is interesting to note that nowhere and at no time was any effort made to translate it into the vernacular, as Saint Isidore of Seville (636) mentioned in his writings.14 He explains this by the reverence for the hallowed traditions of the apostolic Church. In addition to the official liturgy, as early as the third century the Christian writer Tertullian said in his treatise on prayer that the faithful of his time used to insert many alleluias in their private devotions.15 Saint Jerome (420) praised the pious farmers and tradesmen who used to sing it at their toil, and the mothers who taught their babies to pronounce "alleluia" before any other word.16 In the Roman Empire the Alleluia became the favorite prayerful song of oarsmen and navigators. Saint Augustine (430) alluded to this custom, saying, "Let the Alleluia be our sweet rowing-song!"17 And some years later, the Roman poet and bishop Sidonius Apollinaris (480) described how the river banks and shores of Gaul resounded with the Alleluia song of the rowing boatmen.18 Even the Roman soldiers fighting against pagan barbarians used it as battle cry and war song. Saint Bede the Venerable (735), in his history of England, reported such an "Alleluia victory" won by the Christian Bretons over the Picts and Scots in 429.19. Finally, the expression "Alleluia, the Lord is risen" became the general greeting of Christians in early medieval times on the Feast of the Resurrection. Apart from these popular usages the Alleluia has at all times found its primary and most meaningful application in the official liturgy. In the early centuries, the Roman Church used it only during Easter time, but it soon spread over the rest of the ecclesiastical year, except of course, during Lent. It used to be sung even at funerals and burial Masses as an expression of the conviction that for a true Christian the day of death was actually the birthday of eternal life, a day of joy.20 The Eastern Churches have preserved this custom in their Masses for the dead up to now. Customs The depositio (discontinuance) of the Alleluia on the eve of Septuagesima assumed in medieval times a solemn and emotional note of saying farewell to the beloved song. Despite the fact that Pope Alexander II had ordered a very simple and somber way of "deposing" the Alleluia, a variety of farewell customs prevailed in many countries up to the sixteenth century.21 They were inspired by the sentiment which Bishop William Duranti (1296) voiced in his commentaries on the Divine Office: "We part from the Alleluia as from a beloved friend, whom we embrace many times and kiss on mouth, head and hand, before we leave him."22 The liturgical office on the eve of Septuagesima was performed in many churches with special solemnity, and alleluias were freely inserted in the sacred text, even to the number of twenty-eight final alleluias in the church of Auxerre in France. This custom also inspired some tender poems which were sung or recited during Vespers in honor of the sacred word. The best known of these hymns is, Alleluia, dulce carmen (Alleluia, Song of Gladness), composed by an unknown author of the tenth century. It was translated into English by John Mason Neale (1866) and may be found in the official hymnal of the Protestant Episcopal Church.23 In some French churches the custom developed in ancient times of allowing the congregation to take part in the celebration of a quasi-liturgical farewell ceremony. The clergy abstained from any role in this popular service. Choirboys officiated in their stead at what was called "Burial of the Alleluia" performed the Saturday afternoon before Septuagesima Sunday. We find a description of it in the fifteenth-century statute book of the church of Toul: On Saturday before Septuagesima Sunday all choir boys gather in the sacristy during the prayer of the None, to prepare for the burial of the Alleluia. After the last Benedicamus [ i.e. , at the end of the service] they march in procession, with crosses, tapers, holy water and censers; and they carry a coffin, as in a funeral. Thus they proceed through the aisle, moaning and mourning, until they reach the cloister. There they bury the coffin; they sprinkle it with holy water and incense it; whereupon they return to the sacristy by the same way.24 In Paris, a straw figure bearing in golden letters the inscription "Alleluia" was carried out of the choir at the end of the service and burned in the church yard. With the exception of these quaint aberrations, however, the farewell to alleluia in most countries was an appropriate addition to the official ceremonies of the liturgy. The special texts (hymns, responsories, antiphons) used on that occasion were taken mostly from Holy Scripture, and are filled with pious sentiments of devotion, like the following unusual personification collected from a farewell service of the Mozarabic liturgy of Spain (ninth or tenth century): This is the Alleluia banner that I made for 2025! We bought our first home at the end of last year and we finally had a yard to do this custom. I was so thrilled that I created this myself and thought I would share so that you know that you can do it yourself too. (Note: This is what my husband and I pray after we bury the alleluia and sprinkle it with Holy Water.) Stay with us today, Alleluia, And tomorrow thou shalt part. When the morning rises, Thou shalt go thy way. Alleluia, alleluia. The mountains and hills shall rejoice, Alleluia, While they await thy glory. Thou goest, Alleluia; may thy way be blessed, Until thou shalt return with joy. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. 25 Thus the Alleluia is sung for the last time and not heard again until it suddenly bursts into glory during the Mass of the Easter Vigil when the celebrant intones this sacred word after the Epistle, repeating it three times, as a jubilant herald of the Resurrection of Christ.26 Source: Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs by Francis X. Weiser, S.J., Harcourt, Brace and Company, New York, 1958 You can learn more about this practice and other Lenten traditions in my book Festive Faith !

Initially on February 18th, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Bernadette Soubirous, the visionary of Lourdes, France. Now, if you’re new to Catholicism or just need a refresher, St. Bernadette is the young, unassuming girl who saw the Blessed Mother 18 times in a grotto and somehow managed to stay humble about it. Which, let’s be honest, is wildly impressive. Because if most of us saw Our Lady even once, we’d probably be dropping it into conversation at every opportunity. But St. Bernadette? She remained steadfastly simple and obedient, even to those who did not believe her story. She didn’t ask for visions, she didn’t seek attention, and she certainly didn’t try to make a name for herself. Instead, she spent the rest of her life in quiet service to God, joining the Sisters of Charity and living in humility, suffering from tuberculosis, and ultimately offering everything up to the Lord. One of the most astonishing aspects of St. Bernadette’s life isn’t just what happened during her time on earth—but what happened after she left it. When her body was exhumed multiple times (as is sometimes done in the canonization process), it was found to be miraculously incorrupt. That means despite decades in the grave, her body had not decayed like one would expect. In fact, when you visit Nevers, France, you can see St. Bernadette’s body enshrined in a glass reliquary, looking as if she had just fallen asleep in the Lord. While some preservation techniques were used later to maintain the skin's appearance, the incorruptibility of her body remains a profound sign of the holiness she lived and the favor she found with God. It’s a reminder that sainthood is not just an abstract goal—it has real, tangible effects. Why Is Her Feast Day Important? St. Bernadette’s feast day is more than just a chance to remember the girl who saw Mary—it’s an opportunity to reflect on her virtues: humility, faith, and perseverance. She reminds us that God doesn’t always call the rich, powerful, or well-educated to fulfill His plans. Sometimes, He calls a sickly miller’s daughter who had minimal formal education and was barely literate. The story of Lourdes is a powerful one, not just because of the miraculous spring that continues to heal people to this day, but because of Bernadette’s obedience. She did what Our Lady asked—whether it was digging in the dirt to uncover a hidden spring or standing firm in the face of doubters—and she never once made it about herself. Her feast day reminds us to seek holiness in the ordinary , to trust God even when we don’t understand , and to embrace suffering with grace. Liturgical Living Ideas to Celebrate St. Bernadette So how can we, as Catholic women, honor St. Bernadette’s feast day in our homes? Here are some fun and meaningful ways to celebrate: 1. Create a Little Lourdes Grotto at Home If you have a Mary statue in your home or garden, today is the perfect day to give it some extra love. Place flowers around it, light a candle, or even set up a small Lourdes-inspired prayer space. If you have little ones, you can let them decorate a Marian altar with blue and white (Marian colors) and teach them about Bernadette’s story. I found this one from Homegrown Catholics and I thought it would be really easy to mold a grotto out of Rice Krispies Treats! 2. Drink or Cook with Spring Water Lourdes is famous for its miraculous healing waters, so incorporating water into your meals today can be a fun way to honor the feast. Maybe start the day with a simple reminder to drink more water or use spring water for making soup or tea. Perhaps refill your Holy Water Fonts with spring water that has been blessed by a priest. We have these Ceramic Holy Water Fonts for the home that I are absolutely gorgeous and fit perfectly with any decorating style. 3. Make French-Inspired Treats Since Bernadette was from France, today is a fantastic excuse to make a little French cuisine. Think croissants, baguettes, or even a quiche if you’re feeling fancy. Bonus points if you serve it with a good French cheese and offer up a prayer of gratitude for the gifts of food and family. I have this Spinach Bacon Quiche recipe that's been family tested and approved! Very tasty! 4. Watch a Movie About Her Life There are several great films about St. Bernadette, including The Song of Bernadette , which won an Academy Award. While it’s a more dramatic take on her story, it’s still a great way to learn about her life. Grab some popcorn and make it a Catholic movie night! 5. Pray the Rosary (or At Least a Decade) Since the Rosary played a huge role in the apparitions at Lourdes, today is a wonderful time to commit to praying it. If you’re short on time, even a decade is a great way to honor Our Lady and St. Bernadette’s love for her. 6. Consider Humility and Suffering in Your Daily Musings Let’s be real—most of us don’t naturally want suffering. We avoid it at all costs. But St. Bernadette teaches us how to embrace it with grace. Take a few moments today to reflect on how you handle difficulties in your life. Do you offer them up? Do you trust that God can bring good from them? Consider writing a prayer asking for Bernadette’s intercession to grow in humility and trust. Final Thoughts St. Bernadette’s life is a reminder that God sees us, the little ones. The overlooked. The underestimated. She wasn’t rich, famous, or powerful, yet she was chosen to witness one of the most incredible Marian apparitions in history. Her feast day is an opportunity for us to step back and ask: "Am I living with the same humility and trust?" So let’s celebrate her today—not just with good food and pretty crafts, but with hearts open to God’s will, no matter how unexpected it may be. And hey, if you want to go full Bernadette and disappear into a convent after this, I won’t stop you. But if not, at least commit to bringing a little more humility, prayer, and trust into your everyday life. Because who knows? Holiness might be just as simple as saying yes—even in the little muddy grottos of our own life.

In today’s culture, St. Valentine’s Day is often reduced to candy hearts and romantic gestures, but as Catholic men, women, parents, and godparents we have a wonderful opportunity right in front of us to establish a more authentic meaning of the feast of St. Valentine for our families. This special day is about way more than how the secular world perceives love; it’s about St. Valentine’s deep love for Christ and his courageous witness to the faith. By celebrating his feast day liturgically, we can show our spouses and our children about true love—the kind that reflects God’s love for us. Who Was St. Valentine? St. Valentine was a Roman priest who lived during a time of Christian persecution. He defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly performing marriages for Christian couples and was ultimately martyred for his faith. His life reminds us that true love is sacrificial, courageous, and rooted in Christ. If you'd like to learn more about the multifaceted history of the Catholic priest known as St. Valentine, grab a copy of my book Festive Faith . In it I've written all about who he is and common Catholic traditions associated with this feast day. Thank you for letting me squeeze that in, now back to some really sweet ideas for celebrating with Catholic kiddos. Liturgical Activities for Kids Here are some meaningful and festive ways to celebrate the feast of St. Valentine with your children. I recommend picking one or two that fit with the personalities and needs of your family. I will also try to share ways that you can adapt these ideas for ease and creativity! 1. Heart-Shaped Prayer Cards– Have your children create heart-shaped cards with Bible verses about love, such as 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Encourage them to give these cards to family members, friends, or their classmates. Adaptation: If you don't have the supplies or time to make cards you could always purchase Catholic St. Valentine day cards. My shop Liturgy Market has the following printable options: Scriptural St. Valentine Day Cards Saint Quote Valentine's Day Cards Saint Valentine Day Love Coupons for Couples Saint Valentine's Day Spiritual Bouquet Cards 2. St. Valentine’s Storytime– Read children's book about St. Valentine or wholesome stories of love, such as: The Story of St. Valentine , Happy Valentine's Day, Curious George , Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse , or God Gave Us Love . Tip: Before the start of a special feast day or season I like to pull out the books in our library that speak to those themes. You can either create a little book stack or a book basket, but put it in a place where they are easy to see and grab. Books can be a helpful reminder to us of the season we are in and the saints we are celebrating, as well as inspire us to live the virtues that they represent. 3. Acts of Love Jar– Create a jar filled with small slips of paper suggesting acts of love and kindness, such as “Pray for someone today” or “Help with a chore without being asked.” Tip: You can create enough for the entire month of February, or maybe just for the week of St. Valentine's Day. Explain to your children how the jar works, and make it a part of the morning or after school routine. Build excitement around it! Adaptation: You can also do this with popsicle sticks and a small vase or glass. 4. Bake Heart-Shaped Treats– Bake cookies or cupcakes in heart shapes and discuss how love should be shared with others, just as St. Valentine shared Christ’s love. Idea: Similar to how we do a Christmas cookie share, you might consider making a little extra and gifting it to your children's teachers, your neighbors, or your friends. Adaptation: If you don't have time to make them, buy them! 5. Family Rosary for Love– Pray the rosary together, focusing on the mysteries that reflect God’s love, such as the Joyful Mysteries. Adaptation: If you have really small children, try just doing one decade together. From my years of teaching small children I'd also like to recommend that you try this. Every time you say the word "Mary" tell them to do a certain hand gesture, like make a heart with their hands 🫶 or place their hands over their heart. Now they are actively listening to the words you are saying, staying more quiet during prayer, and engaging in a more sensory manner which will help to hold their attention. 6. Craft a Love Banner– Make a decorative banner with phrases like “God is Love” and hang it in your home as a visual reminder of divine love. 7. Write Letters to Jesus– Encourage children to write letters to Jesus, expressing their love and gratitude for Him. Tip: I highly recommend creating a memory box for each of your children. My husband and I both have something like this from our childhood and it is such a treasure to pull out things that we created when we were smaller. Our memory boxes also helps us to remember the traditions that our families did with us, so that we can continue those things. These sweet little St. Valentine's Day letters to Jesus would be just the thing to keep. 8.Create a Liturgical Playlist– Compile songs about God’s love to listen to throughout the day and have a joyful sing-along session. Embracing the True Meaning of Love St. Valentine's Day is a great opportunity to teach our children, spouses, and families that love is more than fleeting emotions; it is a decision to will the good of the other, just as Christ loves us. By celebrating St. Valentine’s feast liturgically, we can manifest what we believe in our homes with faith, love, and a deeper connection to our Catholic heritage. As you celebrate, share your activities and reflections with other Catholic families and inspire each other to live liturgically with joy and purpose. Happy Feast of St. Valentine!

I have to share with a sense of light-heartedness that at one point in my life I found it difficult to eat lamb, especially as it connected to feast days. Perhaps there was a sensitivity to Jesus being called the Lamb of God, or the way that St. Agnes is pictured holding a lamb that made it difficult for me to cook one up. That quickly went away after having tried a very well made lamb loin and realizing that it truly does make for a festive and meaningful dinner. Lamb is a rich and symbolic dish that beautifully connects spiritual nourishment with physical nourishment. I particularly like this recipe because I usually have everything that I need already on hand except for the lamb. The feast of St. Agnes usually falls on a weeknight when there is typically a lot going on so it's nice to keep a good balance of simple and special. All I have to do is remember to put lamb in the grocery cart! Not to mention that this recipe is quick. It took me 20 minutes to cook everything: the lamb chops, roasted brussels sprouts, and dinner rolls. I shared why I chose lamb for dinner on this feast day, and we prayed the St. Agnes prayer after saying the traditional meal time prayer. I personally really like this kind of no-brainer approach to liturgical living that establishes Catholic culture, conversation, and connection in the home. Why Lamb for St. Agnes' Feast Day? St. Agnes, a young Roman martyr, is often depicted with a lamb, symbolizing her purity and unwavering faith. The name "Agnes" resembles the Latin word agnus , meaning "lamb," which further strengthens the connection. Serving lamb on her feast day honors her legacy and reminds us of the gentle strength she exhibited in the face of persecution. The Symbolism of Lamb at Easter Easter is the ultimate celebration of Christ's resurrection, and lamb holds a significant place in this joyous feast. Jesus is the Lamb of God, who was sacrificed for our salvation, fulfilling the Old Testament foreshadowing of the Passover lamb. By preparing lamb for Easter, we reflect on Christ's sacrifice and victory over sin and death. Watch the tutorial by clicking the button below! Pan-Seared Lamb Chop Recipe With Pictures (Note: If you would like the recipe without pictures scroll down to the bottom of the page.) Prep Time: 5 minutes Total Cook Time: 15 minutes Yields: 4-6 lamb chops Ingredients: 🐑 Lamb chops (4-6) 🐑 1/2 tsp rosemary 🐑 1/2 tsp kosher salt 🐑 1/2 tsp garlic powder 🐑 1/4 tsp black pepper 🐑 1 tbsp butter Directions: Trim some of the fat off your lamb and cut the rack into individual chops. Combine all the seasonings and sprinkle them evenly on both sides of each lamb chop. Heat one tablespoon of butter over high heat in a skillet. Place the lamb into the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until you achieve an internal temperature of 145°F. Serve with salad, veggies, potatoes, or a roll. Recipe Without Pictures Ingredients: 🐑 Lamb chops (4-6) 🐑 1/2 tsp rosemary 🐑 1/2 tsp kosher salt 🐑 1/2 tsp garlic powder 🐑 1/4 tsp black pepper 🐑 1 tbsp butter Directions: Trim some of the fat off your lamb and cut the rack into individual chops. Combine all the seasonings and sprinkle them evenly on both sides of each lamb chop. Heat one tablespoon of butter over high heat in a skillet. Place the lamb into the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until you achieve an internal temperature of 145°F. Serve with salad, veggies, potatoes, or a roll. If you made this recipe, share it and tag me! And if you enjoy delicious recipes for feast days and liturgical seasons, follow along for more. 🧡