Originally from a farm in Southwestern Ontario, Julia O’Shea VanSpall (“Julie”) moved to BC in 1992 to pursue her dream of teaching. After marrying Stephen VanSpall, she became a stay-home mom to their four children for ten years before returning to her career. Julie currently teaches at IC Delta School and has been writing for the BC Catholic since 2006.
I have heard people say that we should live each day like it’s our last day on earth. I understand the intent of inspiring people to live their life to … Continued
The end of a school year is always bittersweet. While students and teachers alike welcome the idea of a break from routine, studying or marking, and packing lunches, school years … Continued
As a child, I was taught to make the sign of the cross, a gesture which expresses our belief in one God composed of three persons. When I persisted in … Continued
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he … Continued
When I was asked by a group of Confirmation candidates to share my faith journey, I had to really stop and think. I am what is known as a cradle … Continued
When I was first introduced to the painting Hide and Seek, by Bev Doolittle, I was delighted to discover that which was “hidden.” The painting appears to be merely a … Continued
Recently, as I was making a seasonal home decor purchase, the cashier asked, “Do you celebrate Easter?” Although I was surprised to be asked this, I shouldn’t have been. Not … Continued
“They said to him, ‘Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do … Continued
My children weren’t very old by the time they discovered that the Solemnity of St. Joseph on March 19 could grant them a little reprieve from their Lenten sacrifices. St. … Continued
Since the beginning of January, I have been enjoying a new video series called Meet the Bulmans, found on Bishop Barron’s YouTube channel. The show follows a young family that … Continued