SSJ Spiritual Resources

Hidden Holiness by Marie Stephen Kebort, SSJ Each year, as the Advent season approaches, we can pause and reflect on how we live our everyday lives and where we are on our spiritual journey. Whenever we evaluate our progress, having some sort of measuring rod as a companion is always helpful. What better one to…

A reflection by SSJ Agrégée​ Cindy Polesnak Imagine that you are the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, discussing the events of the past 3 days, Jesus’ last supper, crucifixion, and resurrection. The two disciples learn that Jesus was not in the tomb, they were feeling disappointed, sad, and discouraged. As they continue their…

A reflection by Nancy Fischer, SSJ ​When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit. -John 19:30 I believe that two key words in this passage are “handed over.”  Other versions interpret it as “gave up.”  Philippians describes Jesus’ arrival on earth by saying,…

A reflection by Josette Marie Gocella, SSJ As I pondered what might be the message of this reflection to be shared with the congregation and the broader community, I glanced at the various “stick-ums” currently on the refrigerator in my living space. The one which dominates the overall arrangement says, “LOVE LISTENS.” And I thought,…

Reflection and photo ​by SSJ Agrégée Charlene Kellerman As we know, the practice of giving up something is often a ritual for Lent.  It can serve as a symbol of self-sacrifice, a form of fasting, and represent the sacrifice for Jesus when he went to the desert to fast and pray before the ultimate sacrifice…

A reflection ​by Clare Marie Beichner, SSJ Life and seasons have their timing. Mums typically bloom in the fall. The mums I purchased in September bloomed beautifully until late October. However, the mums I bought in 2022 and planted in the garden to have fall blossoms didn’t happen. I gave them special attention in the…

A Reflection on Mk 9:2-10 ​by SSJ Associate Margaret Chrymko The Transfiguration (Mk 9:2-10), when Jesus led Peter, James, and John up a mountain and was transfigured before them, is one of my favorite Gospels. In the past, I’ve reflected on the “mountain top” experience, envisioning Jesus in dazzling white clothing. The apostles, captivated by…

A Lenten Reflection by SSJ Agregee Betsy Wiest In John’s gospel, the woman who anoints Jesus is Mary of Bethany. Let’s start by saying that Mary got it. She sat at Jesus’ feet. She listened and opened her heart to His message. As Mary begins to clean Jesus’ feet, she breaks the seal on the…

A Lenten Reflection by SSJ Associate Catherine Shimek Ash Wednesday is the day I begin to undertake the removal of some wall that I built between me and God. I examine my life and ask what thing or things have caused a separation over the last year or longer and how I can work to…

In yesterday’s readings, the dialogue begins. Firstly, it’s between Moses and his people who are thirsting for water on their journey – and then between Moses and God who responds so generously, providing the water. “If today you hear God’s voice, harden not your hearts.” In John’s gospel, it’s Jesus asking the Samaritan woman for…