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.
Recently I’ve felt a little lost. I have positive relationships and a fulfilling – often demanding – job, so I’m not bored. My children all live at home, so I … Continued
In 2004, we purchased a dining room suite. I realize how trivial this purchase sounds in writing; in reality, however, this set was – and continues to be – one … Continued
Advent for our family has had a different appearance this year. Since we are not living in our own home, due to a lengthy renovation project, our Advent and Christmas … Continued
Delta woman’s initiative has spread to other cities in Canada and the U.S. Last year, at one of my daughter’s softball practices, I was introduced to a woman named Erin … Continued
The Feast of Christ the King, the final Sunday in our liturgical year, reminds us of our need to keep Christ at the centre of our lives. With Christmas lights … Continued
In September, when I was filled with the renewed energy of a fresh school year, I signed up for a conference to take place in October. This conference – the … Continued
In this past Sunday’s first reading, we heard how the Lord answers the prayers of his faithful. This message is one I believe we need to revisit regularly, particularly when … Continued
Another Thanksgiving is upon us. The rich colours and abundant harvest of this season fill my heart with gratitude. Contributing to my sense of appreciation this year is that our … Continued
There are times in life when we are faced with uncomfortable situations and, as my 11-year-old likes to remind me, “God always has a plan.” During my university days, I … Continued
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Eccl 3:1). On the first day of school, one of the teachers at our school led … Continued