Category Archives: Christmas

The Christmas Surprise

Posted on December 23, 2018 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

I wonder what happens to wonder as we age? How about the word anticipation? Or, how about that churchy word, awe. If I hear one more young person say, “It’s an awesome movie, you gotta see it” then I’ll lose … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent, Christmas, Spirituality | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

The Influences of “Epiphany”

Posted on January 7, 2018 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

Elvis Presley, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Michael Jackson and most notably, Paul McCartney. Besides all being huge rock stars, what do they all have in common? None of them can or could read or write music. John … Continue reading →

Posted in Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

“The Holy Family” & Ours

Posted on December 30, 2017 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

A terrible blow to families and psychology happened in the 1980’s when the word “dysfunctional” became vogue when applied to families. Lots of books sold and lots of talks, especially in our family on how we became this word. Every other … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent, Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

A Blessing of the Nativity Manger

Posted on December 26, 2017 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

Here they all are again in front of us. And here we are again. They are presented to us for our adoration and our emulation. We call them the “Holy Family.” Over here is “Silent Joseph” whose words are never … Continue reading →

Posted in Christmas, Spirituality | Tagged , | Leave a comment

“Keep Your Fork,” Christmas Reflection

Posted on December 25, 2017 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

God sent His Son, His only Son to bring the world redemption through love, mercy, and hope. We acknowledge and honor that great event once again. God did a pretty good job, don’t you think? Jesus did a pretty good … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent, Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

“Behold,” Fourth Sunday of Advent

Posted on December 22, 2017 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

“Behold.” The word says what it all. Underused, but colorfully trustworthy. The curtain’s been lifted. There are no strings attached. There is no agenda. The package has arrived. The fat lady just sang. The boat’s docked. The alarm went off. … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent, Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

Christmas: The Waiting Is Over

Posted on December 22, 2016 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

The waiting is over.  The waiting is truly over. The clock stopped The bus arrived The pot is boiling The movie started The bill’s been paid The alarm clock is buzzing Godot is standing in front of you The cat’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

Kids Show Us How To Age

Posted on December 26, 2015 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

They are carefully held at birth, some in proverbial swaddling clothes, fed often, night light turned on, homework completed, learning not to just print, small tasks are assigned to begin testing the waters, ironing and folding are folded into their … Continue reading →

Posted in Aging, Christmas, Spirituality | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Angels in the Snow

Posted on December 25, 2015 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

Bright and early we’re outside all bundled up with the sun shining and mounds of snow still on the ground.  The cold air doesn’t even register against our bodies as it will many years later.  (“Wind chill” wasn’t invented yet.) … Continue reading →

Posted in Angels, Christmas, Spirituality | Leave a comment

Air-Miles for Jesus

Posted on December 24, 2015 by Rev. Joe Jagodensky, SDS.

Frank Sinatra knows what he’s singing about.  It’s not about the destination but it’s all about the flight.  “Come, fly with me.”  Flying “Coach” is the one who takes little risks, says the right things and ruffles very little feathers … Continue reading →

Posted in Christmas, Spirituality | Tagged , , | Leave a comment