Paraclete Press Blog

By Melodius Monk Ever ask yourself the question, is this all life has to offer? Coming off the “holiday” season (you know the one that was supposed to make you feel peace and joy?) or the start of the New … Continue reading →

By Sr. Fidelis …. and have come with gifts to worship the Lord”. This simple Communion for the Solemn Feast of Epiphany is a gem in miniature.  A wonderful example of Mode 4, the first phrase literally “paints” a picture … Continue reading →

We received a beautiful Christmas card with a picture of Mary & Joseph, and the shepherds huddled in light  around Baby Jesus and the words, “Let every heart prepare Him room.” I put it up on our bathroom mirror to … Continue reading →

By Sr. Spero The Christmas message can seem like a paradox. On one level, it’s the story of a young pregnant girl who is forced by her government to travel many miles in difficult and crowded conditions, and then give … Continue reading →

By Sr. Fidelis The Lauds Antiphons for Christmas Day and Week begin with an amazing question: “Whom did you see, shepherds?” The drama of the text is heightened as a second question follows. “Speak: Announce to us who has appeared … Continue reading →

By Il Fratello What should I do with all this Christmas news that dawns like fire-light on ice that makes a change and says to change– will I allow the pitiful child, born in a cattle pen to steal upon … Continue reading →

By Sr. Fidelis We began Advent  with the “A” of Ad te levavi, in the introit for the first Sunday, and Aspiciens from the Night Office. Now in this time of Great Advent we look to the “Great Antiphons” or … Continue reading →

By Sr. Fidelis We began Advent  with the “A” of Ad te levavi, in the introit for the first Sunday, and Aspiciens from the Night Office. Now in this time of Great Advent we look to the “Great Antiphons” or … Continue reading →

In the fourth century, Christians were asked to mark December 17 as the beginning of a twenty-one-day period, ending at the Epiphany, in which they focused on the great mystery unfolding in the life of the church, the mystery of … Continue reading →