St Matthias the Apostle - Rubens

The Liturgical Home: St. Matthias, the Apostle Who Replaced Judas

Posted on February 21, 2025
|

The Church commemorates St. Matthias on February 24th, recognizing him as the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot. A devoted follower of Jesus, Matthias was selected through prayer and casting lots. His legacy emphasizes God’s call to ordinary people for extraordinary purposes, highlighting themes of faithfulness and humility in service.

Polycarp Exinguishing the Fires of Smyrna

Polycarp: A Martyr Who Bore Much Fruit

Posted on
|

In the providence of God, a person’s name sometimes accurately reflects the meaning of his life. Such is the case with Polycarp, the 2nd-century bishop and martyr. Polycarp is a Greek name that means many (poly) fruits (carp), and in light of scripture, this is an especially appropriate name. Jesus himself said: Truly, truly, I…

Holy Sovereigns King Kamehameha IVย and his wife,ย Queen Emma.

Holy Sovereigns Day: The Feast of the Church in Hawaii

Posted on November 22, 2024
|

At the end of November, we will make a big-to-do at All Saints Honolulu. A large, light-strung canopy will be set up in my front yard. Chairs, benches, and carpets from the sanctuary will be arranged, with an altar and lectern on the grass, dressed for Holy Communion. A reredos and boughs of leaves will…

Charles Simeon

Charles Simeon: A Life of Long Obedience

Posted on November 13, 2024
|

After a long and faithful life of preaching, teaching, and pastoring in Cambridge, England, Charles Simeon died on November 13, 1836. As he lay dying, a friend who visited him asked his thoughts as he lingered between time and eternity. Simeon responded only this: โ€œI donโ€™t think now; I am enjoying.โ€ Though they sound more…

The Liturgical Home: The Feast of St. Francis

Posted on October 1, 2024
|

On October 4th, the Church celebrates the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved and well-known saints in Christian history. His profound love for God, creation, and all living beings continues to inspire millions worldwide. Known as the founder of the Franciscan Order and a model of humility and devotion, St….

Stolen Pears are Never Sweet: A Family Feast with St. Augustine

Posted on August 27, 2024
|

Stolen pears are never sweet. In our family, we remember this principle every August, when we make pear crisp for the feast of Saint Augustine (recipe attached below). While we eat, we tell our children the story of Augustine as a teenager and his infamous theft of pears. It seemed fun at the time, but…