September may not be the beginning of a new year, but the onset of a school year is a fresh start for many. New books, news shoes, new backpacks, new class lists and fresh bulletin boards bring with them blank slates and the anticipation of learning, friendships, and memories just waiting to be experienced.
I have children in school and I am a teacher, so this feeling makes perfect sense in my household. However, even in my personal life, I find myself tempted to make resolutions as the summer months come to an end. The phrase, “This year,” introduces many statements I make from exercise routines, cooking and cleaning schedules, and attempts to balance work and play. As with every other year, I try to convince myself that this year will be the best!
In case I am not the only one who thinks of starting anew as the days grow shorter and routines resume, I wish to share some ideas for those hoping to give their prayer routine a bit of a makeover. There are many free, online resources to help us focus not only on living our best lives, but on seeking God’s plan.
Well-known social media evangelist, Bishop Robert Barron, provides a “Daily Gospel Reflection” which is sent directly to the inboxes of all who subscribe at wordonfire.org/reflections/. In emails which usually arrive late the night before, Word on Fire provides a link to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops readings of the day and a short reflection on the Gospel, written by Bishop Barron. Bishop’s explanations are clear, and his insights are inspiring. In only a few minutes, your day can begin with a focus on God’s Word and how it applies to modern life.
During the COVID lockdown period, Word on Fire livestreamed daily Masses with Bishop Barron as well. Once in-person Masses resumed in his diocese, the daily livestreams stopped; however, Bishop records a Sunday sermon each week. The links to these sermons, which are usually about 15 minutes long, come attached to Sunday Daily Gospel Reflections to give followers something more on the Sabbath Day.
“Blessed is She” is a team comprised of women writers who reflect on the readings of the day, as well. These “Daily Devotions” are written by women of various ages from university students to grandmothers, from Catholic converts to religious Sisters. Their perspectives and honest stories appeal to many, especially women. Blessed is She devotions also come directly to the inboxes of those who subscribe at blessedisshe.net.
For those who prefer to listen to podcasts or watch recordings, the Augustine Institute provides subscribers with a daily link to a 3– to 5-minute video reflection by theologian Dr. Tim Gray. Primarily, Gray focusses on the Old Testament readings and Psalms, making his reflections a good pairing with Bishop Barron’s daily reflections which focus on the gospel. To subscribe to “Formed Daily Reflections,” go to watch.formed.org/formed-daily-reflections.
Reverend Terry Hershey, an ordained minister, author, and speaker from Washington State, provides a weekly resource called “Sabbath Moment.” These email reflections, along with quotes, poems, and links to spiritually uplifting music, arrive on Monday mornings and provide a great way to begin the week, focusing on finding the holy in the everyday and on finding “sabbath” moments – moments of pause – throughout the week, not just on Sunday. To subscribe to Sabbath Moment, visit terryhershey.com/meet-terry/.
American author and motivational speaker, John O’Leary, has a website called “John O’Leary, Live Inspired” (johnolearyinspires.com/). On this website, there are links to podcasts in which John interviews individuals with amazing life stories and experiences. Additionally, under the heading of “Blog,” one can subscribe to his “Monday Motivation” emails which reflect on his life and promote an attitude of positivity and thanksgiving.
Chris Stefanick of Real Life Catholic, provides many resources including programs and interviews, as well as his “2-Minute Tuesday” videos which are short, energetic, and motivating messages. Subscribers to reallifecatholic.com/ receive these emails on Tuesday mornings, and also receive notifications of updates to the website.
There are many more resources available to those searching for ways to add to their spiritual routines this autumn season, including those found on the weekly report from the Vancouver Archdiocese (rcav.org/friday-report). My advice is to choose something new to you and see what is waiting for you to experience.
