Four Chaplains Day: A Day When Faith Led Through Sacrifice and Service

TweetShareShare February 3 is honored as “FOUR CHAPLAINS DAY.” Never heard of it? It’s a fascinating story that needs to be told and shared. In the early morning hours of February 3, 1943 the U.S.A.T. Dorchester–packed with 902 servicemen–was hit by a Nazi torpedo. The surprise attack killed several soldiers and trapped dozens of others.…

Read More

The Santa Chronicles: The Rise of Sinter Klass (Part 2)

TweetShareShare How did St. Nicholas become Santa Claus? It’s an important part of the real history of Santa Claus. In part 1, we looked at the humble beginnings of a devout Greek bishop known as Nicholas. His generous deeds were legendary. Now let’s dive into the European chapter that sets up the myths and legend…

Read More

The Santa Chronicles: How A Man Named Nicholas became Santa Claus (Part 1)

TweetShareShareHis name was Nikolaos or Nicholas…St. Nicholas in the Greek Orthodox tradition. You and I know him better as “St. Nick.” Around the world he has other names: Sinterklass (Dutch), Kris Kringle (English), Papa Noel (French/Spanish), Weihnachtsmann (German), Grandfather Frost (Russia)…and SANTA CLAUS. Most of what we know about this “jolly old elf” and his…

Read More

Memorial Day: How Former Slaves Created a National Holiday

TweetShareShare American summers are built around three holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Memorial Day and Labor Day are the bookends. The July 4th celebration is the centerpiece. Most Americans view Memorial Day as the “kickoff” for summer…and it is. But there’s much more to this holiday than we think. Unfortunately, many contemporary…

Read More

Saint Patrick: The Tale of a Slave for Christ

TweetShareShareWho was Saint Patrick?” Why do we celebrate his name today? His legacy is much more than festive green parties, green beer and shamrocks. Patrick was born around 385 AD in Britain during a tumultuous time. At the time, Britain was under Roman rule and his family lived in constant fear. Because the great Roman…

Read More

The True History of Valentine’s Day

TweetShareShare Valentine’s Day is February 14. It’s traditionally a day of love. But what’s the story behind the day? A man named Valentine of Terni lived in the 3rd century AD. It was a period of deadly plagues and severe Christian persecution. The great Roman Empire was starting its long disintegration. With a small pox…

Read More

Pilgrims, the Mayflower and Squanto: The Real Story of Thanksgiving

Pilgrim Thanksgiving

TweetShareShare    This week we celebrate Thanksgiving Day. It’s a day we’ll gather for turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, and pie. We’ll gather with friends and family, watch football and check the advertisements for Black Friday specials. Most of us will share gratitude for something or someone. But in 1621, the first Thanksgiving feast happened for…

Read More