Show Notes
These days the Church invites us to ready ourselves for Christmas, the birth of the Son of God. It is a time of joy, but also a time of penance. The infant Jesus reminds us of the virtue of self-denial, because he is born in a manger. Let us look at him in that manger, and let us learn from him. A meditation by Father Henry Bocala.
More from Meditations in Manhattan
When Jesus asks the Samaritan woman for a drink, he is expressing the same longing he voices from the Cross: "I thirst." This meditation looks at that encounter between Christ and one soul, and at what he offers in return: water that becomes a spring in the person who receives it. It also considers what accepting that gift requires, starting with honesty before God and with ourselves. A meditation by Father Philip Moss.
In this meditation, we reflect on the great saints celebrated in the August liturgy—including the Curé of Ars, Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Saint Monica, Saint Augustine, and Saint John the Baptist. We also celebrate the Assumption of Mary, the Mother of Jesus and the greatest of all saints. Inspired by their lives, examples, and words, let us strive to grow in holiness and answer the call to become saints ourselves. A meditation by Father Timothy Uhen.
Drawing on the Old Testament story of Joseph inviting his repentant brothers to "come closer," this meditation explores God’s tender invitation to draw near despite our sins. Through the parable of the humble tax collector and the inspiring witness of St. Maria Goretti’s forgiveness, we are reminded that God never tires of offering His mercy. By approaching the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we discover true peace and the joy of a contrite heart. A meditation by Father Timothy Uhen.
Reflecting on the Feast of Corpus Christi, this meditation explores why remembering what God has done for us is the secret to living with hope. Spending time before the Eucharist helps us overcome the daily noise and worries that pull us away from Him. In the end, we are called to bring Him into our workplaces and families—where we become the monstrance, the love of Christ shining forth in our lives. A meditation by Father Philip Moss.
Inspired by a simple poem seen on a subway door — "I am the wind, you are the chimes" — this meditation explores how the Holy Spirit works in each of us. By choosing a path of docility, prayer, and sacrifice, we allow the Paraclete to turn our individual urban lives into a symphony of divine music. A meditation by Father Philip Moss.