There are many ways we can approach the nearly inexhaustible mystery of Christmas. We can meditate on the divine humility of God’s becoming one of us, on his deliberate choice to become a helpless baby, and to number himself among the poor. We can focus on the holiness of those gathered around a manger, especially Mary and Joseph, and on the quiet strength of the domestic church that shelters the baby Savior of the world.

Pope Leo XIV on Friday urged Christians to resist the temptation to treat others as enemies, saying the mystery of Christmas calls believers to recognize the God-given dignity of every person, even in their adversaries. “Christians, however, have no enemies, but brothers and sisters, who remain so even when they do not understand each other,” the Pope said...

The dreadful murder of Rob and Michele Reiner, allegedly at the hands of their son, has returned the filmmaker’s work to greater prominence in recent days. No doubt some families will be prompted to watch again The Princess Bride over the holidays. That would be a good choice, for the film has some powerful Christian messages.

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Feast date: Dec 29

St. Thomas was born in London, England around the year 1117. He was the son of pious parents, and his mother converted to Christianity through the example and teachings of his father. From his early youth, Thomas was educated in religion and holiness. After his childhood, Thomas was then taught at a monastery and later at a school in London. After the death of both his parents, Thomas decided to finish his schooling by studying canon law. He was successful in his studies and was made secretary to one of the courts of London.

After working for a while at law, Thomas decided to dedicate the rest of his life to God, and began to work towards ordination. In all that he did, Thomas diligently applied himself and became well known as a holy and honest worker. His work came under the scrutiny of his friend King Henry II and, in 1157, Thomas was asked to serve as Lord Chancellor to the king. After the bishop of Canterbury died, Henry sought to elect Thomas to the position, and in 1162 this suggestion was accepted by a synod. Thomas warned the king that it might cause friction and conflict of interests, but accepted the position.

Thomas served as bishop by seeking to help the people and develop his own holiness. He practiced many penances and was very generous to the poor with both his time and his money. As Henry's reign continued, he began more and more to exercise his hand in Church affairs. This caused many disagreements with Thomas, and after one especially trying affair, he retired for a while to France. When Thomas returned to England, he again became involved in a dispute with the king. Some of the king's knights saw this as treason, and as a result they killed Thomas in his own Church.

From St. Thomas, the modern Catholic can find inspiration to be courageous in their steadfastness with what they know to be right and holy.