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.
Since 1994, I have had a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church on my bookshelf. In my teaching and my writing, it has been used as a reference … Continued
Happy Easter! What does Easter really mean? For religious and non-religious people alike, it represents new life: an occasion for a family dinner, a chance to decorate with pretty spring … Continued
Anyone who feeds a family can relate to the excitement of receiving a free frozen turkey when your grocery bill is past a certain threshold. Turkey dinner is not only … Continued
When asking my students about their favourite Scripture passages, I heard a wide range of responses. Some relate to Adam and Eve, or to Noah; others appreciate the New Testament, … Continued
During the season of Lent we focus on repentance. From the moment the crosses are traced on our foreheads, reminding us that we are “dust and to dust we shall … Continued
When I was young I used to resist – and even go as far as saying that I hated – Lent. Now that I have gained some years, I am … Continued
With Valentines’ Day around the corner, many people are thinking about love. Right after Christmas, stores begin to fill up with material goods such as cards, roses, chocolates, and jewelry … Continued
As a practising Catholic, I do not shy away from the fact that I go to church or that I teach at a Catholic school. Consequently, I find that people … Continued
“The world offers you comfort, but you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness!” ~ Joseph Ratzinger. The death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has prompted many … Continued
Make “one day” Day 1. That quote from a homily by Father Mike Schmitz was proudly shared by one of my students during an Advent discussion. It resonated with many … Continued