December 1st, 1955
First Sunday of Advent!
Dear Diary,
Today marked the beginning of Advent, a season that fills my heart with hope and longing. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I braved the frosty morning and walked together to Holy Mass at St. Mary’s. The world seemed wrapped in a cold embrace, with the gravel road glistening under the early sun. Bundled tightly in our scarves, coats, and gloves, we made our way through the chill, feeling the anticipation of Christmas slowly building in the air.
Father LeRoy’s homily was inspiring, reflecting on preparing our hearts for Christ’s coming. After Mass, Mini happily greeted the parishioners as they left the church. She’s such a joy to have around!
Back home, we warmed up with bowls of Sister’s delicious chili soup, its rich aroma filling the house. She explained that the nourishment of Holy Communion works much like the soup — it strengthens and sustains us, but on a much deeper level. Just as food fuels the body, the Eucharist strengthens the soul, helping us to persevere in generosity and overcome our weaknesses.
In the afternoon, Sister and I carried in more firewood for the week. The crisp air nipped at my cheeks, but I felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing the warmth we’d enjoy later was a fruit of our labor.
As we sat together by the fire, Sister continued her lesson from yesterday about generosity and the role of Communion. She used such gentle words to explain that while the desire to be good is important, it’s not enough on its own. Communion helps strengthen our will and guides us toward the selflessness Jesus modeled so perfectly. Her words stayed with me, and I silently resolved to make frequent Holy Communion a part of my own journey toward becoming more generous.
Chili Soup Recipe (from Sister Mary Claire)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot with crackers or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Evening Prayer
Blessed Jesus, so full of generous love, make my heart more like your heart. Thank You for the strength You offer me in the Eucharist and for the chance to begin again every day. Help me, dear Lord, to persevere in becoming more selfless, to follow Your example, and to open my heart to others. Thank You for the warmth of family, friends, and faith this Advent season. Amen.
Goodnight, dear Diary.
Today marked the beginning of Advent, a season that fills my heart with hope and longing. Sister Mary Claire, Mini, and I braved the frosty morning and walked together to Holy Mass at St. Mary’s. The world seemed wrapped in a cold embrace, with the gravel road glistening under the early sun. Bundled tightly in our scarves, coats, and gloves, we made our way through the chill, feeling the anticipation of Christmas slowly building in the air.
Father LeRoy’s homily was inspiring, reflecting on preparing our hearts for Christ’s coming. After Mass, Mini happily greeted the parishioners as they left the church. She’s such a joy to have around!
Back home, we warmed up with bowls of Sister’s delicious chili soup, its rich aroma filling the house. She explained that the nourishment of Holy Communion works much like the soup — it strengthens and sustains us, but on a much deeper level. Just as food fuels the body, the Eucharist strengthens the soul, helping us to persevere in generosity and overcome our weaknesses.
In the afternoon, Sister and I carried in more firewood for the week. The crisp air nipped at my cheeks, but I felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing the warmth we’d enjoy later was a fruit of our labor.
As we sat together by the fire, Sister continued her lesson from yesterday about generosity and the role of Communion. She used such gentle words to explain that while the desire to be good is important, it’s not enough on its own. Communion helps strengthen our will and guides us toward the selflessness Jesus modeled so perfectly. Her words stayed with me, and I silently resolved to make frequent Holy Communion a part of my own journey toward becoming more generous.
Chili Soup Recipe (from Sister Mary Claire)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot with crackers or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Evening Prayer
Blessed Jesus, so full of generous love, make my heart more like your heart. Thank You for the strength You offer me in the Eucharist and for the chance to begin again every day. Help me, dear Lord, to persevere in becoming more selfless, to follow Your example, and to open my heart to others. Thank You for the warmth of family, friends, and faith this Advent season. Amen.
Goodnight, dear Diary.
The fire is warm, and Mini is curled up beside me, ready for sleep. I feel blessed tonight.
With love, Kathy
With love, Kathy
No comments:
Post a Comment