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.
“Lift high the Cross” are words sung with gratitude and joy as we recall Christ’s victory over death. Because we know of the Resurrection, Christians treasure the symbol of the … Continued
For years, on Palm Sunday, I have played the uplifting, ancient hymn All Glory, Laud, and Honour on the organ. Interestingly, every time I have played the final chord, I … Continued
As I recently switched the calendar in my school office from February to March, my heart sank. A year ago, I had flipped the same calendar to the same month, … Continued
In a recent discussion with a fellow chocolate lover, the topic of our shared addiction eventually melded into a conversation about Lent. We talked about giving up chocolate for Lent, … Continued
At the risk of making myself sound nerdy, I have a confession to make. Although they are time-consuming and their deadlines can cause stress, I like writing report cards. There, … Continued
I think most people can say that at one time or another they have wished for a second chance – an opportunity to re-do something and make better choices. In … Continued
During a New Year’s Even Zoom “party,” I was asked to share my New Year’s resolutions. I did have a few ideas, but nothing that I could really articulate at … Continued
I am not certain of its origin, but when my children were young, I came to appreciate the following saying pertaining to parenting infants and toddlers: “these are the longest … Continued
I have always been a strict adherent to the “no-Christmas-decorations-before-Advent” philosophy. I value the character-building and spiritual aspects of waiting. Advent is our faith’s gift of encouraging us to make … Continued
It is no secret that COVID-19 has challenged our world in countless ways. Along with the obvious risks to our physical health, I would argue that emotional risks are at … Continued