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 began teaching in 1992. This means that my first Grade 5 students are now 20 years older than I was when I taught them! Those 30 students, like the … Continued
My students were confirmed the day before Pentecost. I found it powerful that they could celebrate the completion of their baptism—birth in Christ—one day, followed by readings, a sequence, and … Continued
Celebrating the Feast of the Ascension always used to feel confusing to me. Putting myself in the shoes of Jesus’ loved ones, who had been joyfully reunited with him after … Continued
As we mourn and pray for the soul of Pope Francis and celebrate the election of our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, I have been reflecting on a few … Continued
After 40 days of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we have finally reached the Easter season of rejoicing. Although we are now free to leave fasting behind and celebrate, our prayer … Continued
As we enter Holy Week, our Lenten journey is coming to a close. Whether you feel that you have met your goals for Lent or not, we still have time … Continued
As mentioned in my last column, the pillars of Lent are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Previously, we focused on prayer, and today, we examine fasting. Throughout our Lenten journeys, we … Continued
Prayer, fasting and almsgiving are the three pillars of Lent. As our Lenten journey begins, it is helpful to ponder each pillar and what it means to us. This week, … Continued
On the sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time, we reflect on St. Luke’s version of the Beatitudes. I have always appreciated the juxtaposition of the lessons in Jesus’ words: negative situations … Continued