USCCB - Advent Calendar

Images courtesy of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the nativity scene above is from the Christmas special "Christmas Eve from the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, San Francisco". The Christmas special will be showing on ABC-TV stations around the country, check your local listing.

New Line Cinema

December 29, 2008
Saint Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr

Read: Learn about St. Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr, by listening to the audio from Franciscan Radio.; Daily Readings from the New American Bible (NAB)
Pray: Prayer for Civic Leaders
God our Father,
You guide everything in wisdom and love.
Accept the prayers we offer for our nation.
In your goodness,
watch over those in authority,
so that people everywhere may enjoy
freedom, security and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

From Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers
Reflect: St. Thomas Becket’s murder was politically motivated. Think about individuals who have been murdered during your lifetime because of their political or religious beliefs. What impact have these events had on you?; View the Daily Reflections on today's readings brought to you by the Catholic Communication Campaign
Act: Rent a copy of the film “Becket” or read the play on which it was based: "L’Honneur de Dieu" (The Honor of God) by Jean Anouilh and discuss the saint’s story with family/friends.