Reflection: As I think about absolute peace, my mind reflects on the incredible solitude of an Upper Midwestern winter’s night. It’s a clear night, with a million stars and the moon is full.

In the night, there is a soundlessness that brings me closer to my core. This indescribable silence takes me to a place of utter awe. In my mind, memories of a candlelight choir rendition of “Silent Night,” softly sung, are recreated.

“Silent Night” is one of the most iconic Christmas carols ever written, but interestingly the story of its composition is far from peaceful. Written over 200 years ago, it was composed to bring hope to a world suffering from the Napoleonic Wars, famine, and natural disasters, much like that first Christmas, when God sent Jesus into our world to bring hope.

As human beings, God has blessed us with many things–intelligence, charm, good looks, popularity, wealth–and yet underneath the surface of our lives, many of us have a sense of unrest and anxiety. We long for the absolute peace that only a relationship with Him can provide. 

Winter's silence is God’s way of reconnecting us, nourishing us in the company of family and friends. Listen to the silence of winter. 

Verse: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”  John 14:27

Prayer: Heavenly Father, some days the peace You’ve promised seems a long way off. Help me to recognize the need to be diligent to carve out space for a moment with You. Show me how to achieve the peace this world can never give. Amen.

Welcome to St. Katharine Drexel Parish! Founded on July 1, 2004, we're a relatively young parish of approximately 925 families. We're located 2 blocks west of the intersection of 26th Street and the Ellis Road. We strive to follow the example of our patroness, St. Katharine Drexel, by reaching out to those less fortunate in our community. We hope you'll join us for a weekday or weekend Mass and find a warm welcome in our parish community.

The mission of St. Katharine Drexel Parish is to gather together as a community of faith, sharing the Word of God with all of our neighbors through our words and example. We emphasize the sanctity of the Eucharist in our daily lives and encourage good stewardship and lifelong Catholic Christian education. Our consistent message is "Come home to   Christ".

 Learn more about our patroness, St. Katharine Drexel.