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.
Catholic feasts are often associated with the deaths of saints, since these are the dates upon which these men and women entered eternal life. However, the Church also acknowledges three … Continued
It always takes me some time to get used to the rhythm of the summer months as a parent and a teacher. The days are longer, weather is warmer, schedules … Continued
One of the selections on my summer reading list is a book titled The Road to Character. This non-fiction series of biographies by David Brooks was gifted to me, spurring a … Continued
The story of a synagogue official’s little girl dying and Jesus raising her back to life has always resonated with me for many reasons. I empathize with the parents of … Continued
“God works in mysterious ways” is a phrase I’ve heard many times throughout my life. This is true. There are times when I feel confused, or even annoyed, only to … Continued
One of the best things about teaching confirmation candidates is witnessing their growth as they articulate God’s presence in their lives. From the beginning of the school year, we talk … Continued
In Genesis, we hear of the creation of languages. People who spoke the same language worked together ambitiously to build a great tower to the heavens. When God saw this … Continued
Just over three years ago, I began a life-changing journey by enrolling at St. Mark’s College at the University of British Columbia. While graduate school had always been on my … Continued
During the Easter season, we reflect on the glory of the Resurrection and, although I wear an empty cross around my neck to represent Easter joy, I also have several … Continued
On Shrove Tuesday, my students put a banner bearing the word “Alleluia” into a locked trunk to symbolize the desert journey of Lent. After Easter, when they return to class … Continued