First Confession for Converts: What to Expect and How to Prepare

For many converts, First Confession can feel like the most intimidating step toward full communion with the Church. I know it was for my husband and me. It’s not just the logistics—walking into a confessional, remembering what to say—but the weight of a lifetime of sins, the uncertainty of how deep to go, and the worry that something will be forgotten or done incorrectly. If you’re feeling anxious, know this: you are not alone. Every single person who has ever gone to confession has felt some level of nervousness, especially the first time.

But here’s the most important thing to remember: Confession is not about perfect performance—it’s about mercy. You’re not going into an interrogation. You’re going into an encounter with God’s love, a moment where grace meets repentance and restores what sin has broken. You are stepping into the embrace of a Father who has been waiting for you—not with judgment, but with joy.

Why Do Converts Need to Confess Everything?

Unlike those baptized in the Church as infants, converts are often coming from years—even decades—of life outside of sacramental grace. That means First Confession is not just about the last week or month, but your entire life up to baptism (if you were previously baptized) or up to the present (if you are unbaptized and will be receiving baptism instead). The Church asks this of converts not to burden them, but to offer them complete freedom, complete forgiveness, and a brand-new beginning.

It sounds overwhelming, but remember: God already knows everything. He is not surprised or shocked by your sins. He has been with you through every moment of your life, seeing both your struggles and your victories, your wounds and your strengths. Your job isn’t to produce a perfect legal document of every sin you’ve ever committed. Your job is to come with a sincere heart, confessing what you know, and trusting in God’s mercy for what you may have forgotten. His grace is bigger than your memory.

How to Prepare for Your First Confession

1. Do an Examination of Conscience – Take time to reflect on your life and where you’ve fallen short. Many parishes provide guides based on the Ten Commandments or the Beatitudes. You don’t need to recall every minor mistake, but focus on patterns of sin and serious choices that distanced you from God. If you’re unsure whether something is a sin, bring it up with the priest—he is there to help.

2. Write Things Down (If It Helps) – Some people find it helpful to make a short list of what they want to confess. You can bring it in with you and refer to it so you don’t get flustered. Just remember to destroy it afterward—your sins belong to God’s mercy, not to a forgotten scrap of paper in your pocket.

3. Choose the Right Setting – Confession can be done face-to-face or behind a screen. If you’re nervous, you may find comfort in anonymity. If you want guidance, a face-to-face conversation with a compassionate priest may be best. Either way, the grace is the same.

4. Remember the Structure, But Don’t Panic If You Forget – A basic confession follows this format:

   • Begin with: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. This is my first confession.”
   • List your sins briefly and honestly.
   • The priest may offer some guidance or encouragement.
   • He will give you a penance—something to pray or do as an act of repentance.
   • He will then ask you to say an Act of Contrition. If you don’t remember it, don’t worry! The priest will help you.
   • He will absolve you, and your sins will be forgiven.

5. Trust in the Power of the Sacrament – You don’t need to feel forgiven to be forgiven. Whether you walk out feeling light as air or still processing what just happened, the reality is the same: Your sins are gone. You are fully reconciled to God.

Common Fears About First Confession (And Why You Don’t Need to Worry)

• “What if I forget something important?” – If you make an honest effort to confess everything you remember, any sins you accidentally forget are forgiven too. If something serious comes to mind later, just bring it up in your next confession.
• “What if my sins are too bad?” – There is no sin greater than God’s mercy. Priests have heard everything, and their role is to be a minister of Christ’s love, not a judge. Your job is not to shock him, but to open your heart to God’s healing grace.
• “What if I don’t feel different after?” – That’s okay. The sacraments are objective—they don’t depend on emotions. Trust in what God has done, even if you don’t have a dramatic experience. Some people feel an immediate sense of peace, while others take time to process it. What matters is that God’s mercy is real, no matter how you feel.

What Comes Next? Living in God’s Grace

The beauty of confession is that it is not just about wiping the slate clean—it is about renewal. You are not just walking out forgiven; you are walking out strengthened to live in the grace of God. That doesn’t mean you won’t struggle with sin again, but now you have a path back to God whenever you fall. Confession is not just an ending. It’s a beginning.

Make it a habit to go to confession regularly. Many Catholics go monthly, some even weekly, but at minimum, the Church asks us to go at least once a year (especially during Lent). Confession is not a punishment or a chore—it is a gift, a sacrament that pours out grace each and every time you receive it. The more you go, the more you will come to experience it not as something to fear, but as a wellspring of peace, healing, and closeness with God.

Final Thoughts: Stepping Into Mercy

Your first confession is not an exam you have to pass. It is an invitation to mercy, a moment when God welcomes you home with open arms. No matter what is in your past, you are not defined by your sins—you are defined by God’s love. He has been calling you to this moment for longer than you know. He delights in your return.

So, step forward in trust. Let grace do its work. And walk out of that confessional fully forgiven, fully free, and fully His.

The Face of God Series: The Face of God in Isaiah Chapter 6

The Face of God in Isaiah 6: Encountering Holiness

Read the full chapter on Bible Gateway.

Isaiah 6 is one of the most vivid and powerful moments in all of Scripture—a direct glimpse into the throne room of God. Here, the prophet Isaiah experiences a vision of God’s holiness, His majesty, and His call to service. But this isn’t just an event from the past. The truths found in this chapter are just as relevant today, calling us to reflect on who God is and how we respond to Him.

Isaiah 6:1-4

“In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, with the train of his garment filling the temple. Seraphim were stationed above; each of them had six wings: with two they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they hovered. One cried out to the other: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts! All the earth is filled with his glory!’ At the sound of that cry, the frame of the door shook, and the house was filled with smoke.”

God as the High and Holy King

Isaiah’s vision begins with a stunning revelation of God’s majesty. This isn’t just an impressive scene—it is a declaration of who God truly is. He is high and exalted, ruling over all creation, yet His presence is so overwhelming that even the temple—the very place where His glory dwells—is shaken to its core.

Notice how the seraphim, the highest order of angels, cover their faces and feet in the presence of God. Even these sinless beings cannot bear to look upon His full glory. They cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts!”—the only attribute of God in Scripture repeated three times. This repetition emphasizes absolute, infinite holiness. Holiness is not just one of God’s traits—it is the foundation of His entire being.

God’s holiness is awe-inspiring, but it can also feel distant. How do we approach a God so high and lifted up? Isaiah’s response gives us the answer.

Isaiah 6:5

“Then I said, ‘Woe is me, I am doomed! For I am a man of unclean lips, living among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!’”

God’s Holiness and Our Unworthiness

Isaiah’s reaction isn’t joy or excitement—it’s fear. He is immediately overwhelmed by his own sinfulness. Standing in the light of God’s holiness reveals the depth of human imperfection in a way that nothing else can. Holiness exposes what is unholy.

But here’s the key: Isaiah’s recognition of his unworthiness doesn’t lead to rejection—it leads to purification.

Isaiah 6:6-7

“Then one of the seraphim flew to me, holding an ember which he had taken with tongs from the altar. He touched my mouth with it and said, ‘See, now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.’”

God as the Purifier

God does not leave Isaiah in his unworthiness. Instead, He acts. The burning coal from the altar represents both purification and atonement. It is not Isaiah who makes himself worthy—it is God who cleanses him.

This is a direct foreshadowing of Christ. Just as Isaiah is purified by an action from God’s altar, we are cleansed not by our own merit, but through the sacrifice of Christ. God’s holiness does not push us away—it draws us into transformation.

Isaiah 6:8

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ I said, ‘Here I am; send me!’”

God’s Call and Our Response

This moment marks a dramatic shift. The same Isaiah who was just crying out, “Woe is me!” now boldly says, “Here I am, send me!” His encounter with God’s holiness has not left him paralyzed—it has commissioned him.

This is what an encounter with God does. It does not leave us the same. True worship should always lead to a transformed life. Isaiah is not sent because he is strong, wise, or powerful. He is sent because God has made him ready.

Isaiah 6:9-13

“Go and say to this people: Listen carefully, but do not understand! Look intently, but do not perceive! Make the heart of this people sluggish, dull their ears and close their eyes; Lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and their heart understand, and they turn and be healed.”

God’s Sovereignty and the Mystery of Hardness

This is one of the most difficult parts of Isaiah’s commission. Instead of being sent with a message that would bring immediate repentance, Isaiah is told that the people will not listen—their hearts will be hardened, their eyes closed.

This doesn’t mean that God desires their destruction, but rather that He is revealing the condition of their hearts. Isaiah’s message is meant to expose their unwillingness to repent, making clear the spiritual blindness they have already chosen. This passage echoes the words of Jesus, who often spoke in parables, saying, “Whoever has ears, let them hear” (Matthew 13:9).

But this isn’t where the chapter ends.

Isaiah 6:11-13: The Hope of the Holy Seed

“How long, O Lord?” I asked. And he replied: Until the cities are desolate, without inhabitants, Houses, without people, and the land is a desolate waste. Until the Lord sends the people far away, and great is the desolation in the midst of the land. If there remain a tenth part in it, then this in turn shall be laid waste; like a terebinth or an oak whose stump remains standing when it is felled. The holy seed is its stump.”

Even in judgment, God leaves hope. Though the land will suffer devastation, a remnant will remain—the “holy seed.” This imagery of a tree stump suggests death and loss, yet also the promise of new growth. This remnant is a theme throughout Isaiah, ultimately pointing to Jesus, the true Holy Seed from whom redemption and restoration will come.

This passage challenges us to trust God’s long-term plan, even when it seems like all hope is lost. The message of Isaiah 6 is not just about judgment—it’s about God’s faithfulness to preserve His people and fulfill His promises.

Final Reflection: What Does This Mean for Us?

Isaiah 6 reveals a God who is holy, awe-inspiring, and utterly beyond us, yet also a God who purifies, calls, and commissions.

• God’s holiness reminds us who He is. He is not small, distant, or manageable. He is the King, exalted above all things.
• God’s grace meets us where we are. When we recognize our sinfulness, He does not reject us—He cleanses us.
• God’s call transforms us. When we truly encounter Him, we cannot stay the same. We are sent out to reflect His holiness in the world.

Like Isaiah, we are invited into this vision—not just as spectators, but as people who respond. What is God calling you to do? How is He refining you? And most of all, how will you answer when He says, “Whom shall I send?”

When The Face of God in Isaiah series is complete, you’ll be able to purchase a full copy in our store. If you’re looking for a deep and faithful study resource in the meantime, I highly recommend the Ignatius Press Catholic Study Bible—a phenomenal tool for understanding Scripture in its fullest depth.

7 Essential Resources for Catholics Seeking to Deepen Their Faith

As my family has journeyed into the Catholic Church, we've discovered a number of resources that have been invaluable in deepening our understanding and enriching our spiritual lives. These are the books and tools that have helped us along the way, and we hope they can do the same for you. Whether you're looking to strengthen your theological foundation, enhance your daily devotions, or explore Catholic teachings more fully, these resources are here to support and inspire you.

1. Ignatius Press Catholic Study Bible

The Ignatius Press Catholic Study Bible is an absolute powerhouse of Catholic scholarship. This tome stands toe-to-toe with, and easily surpasses, the very best Protestant study Bibles available today. It's packed with insightful commentary that not only makes Scripture more accessible but also brings in cultural context, references to the Church Fathers, and deep connections to the Catechism.

This is one of the most comprehensive Catholic study Bibles produced in the last century, making it an indispensable resource for anyone serious about understanding the faith. Yes, it’s an investment—but it’s one that will serve you for years to come, offering unparalleled depth and clarity in engaging with Scripture. If you’ve never seen a Catholic Study Bible quite like this, trust me—this one is worth it.

Ignatius Press Catholic Study Bible

2. Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought, Social Science, and Social Policy

If you've ever wanted to understand why the Church teaches what it does on social issues, this two-volume set is your answer. The Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought, Social Science, and Social Policy is a scholarly and expansive guide that explores Catholic teaching on economics, politics, ethics, and justice. Compiled by leading Catholic scholars, it provides historical and theological context for modern debates, breaking down these topics in a way that makes sense.

This is an invaluable resource for those who want to connect their faith with action—whether you're studying Catholic social teaching, working in ministry, or just striving to live your faith more intentionally in today's world.

Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought, Social Science, and Social Policy

3. Liturgy of the Hours (4-Volume Set)

The Liturgy of the Hours is one of the most ancient and beautiful traditions of the Church, uniting Catholics around the world in daily prayer. Rooted in the practices of the early Church, it’s been prayed for centuries by priests, religious orders, and laypeople alike.

This four-volume set allows you to fully participate in the same prayers recited by clergy and religious communities, fostering a deeper connection to the universal Church. It’s a structured, sacred way to engage with Scripture, Psalms, and petitions, giving a rhythm to your prayer life. Whether you pray it daily, use it for Lenten reflection, or as a personal retreat, this resource will transform how you experience prayer.

Liturgy of the Hours (4-Volume Set)

4. Rome Sweet Home by Scott & Kimberly Hahn

This book played a huge role in our conversion to Catholicism, and we can’t recommend it enough. Scott and Kimberly Hahn’s story is powerful, personal, and packed with wisdom for anyone exploring the faith.

Beyond being an inspiring faith journey, this book also provides deep Scriptural and historical insights into Catholicism. It’s an excellent tool for understanding, explaining, and defending the faith. Many converts, including us, have found it to be a crucial resource for making sense of Catholic teachings and appreciating the beauty of the Church.

Rome Sweet Home by Scott & Kimberly Hahn

5. Bible Highlighters and Pen Set

I’ve always been a firm believer in taking notes in my Bible. Not only does it help with personal devotions, but it also creates a priceless keepsake—a way to pass down your reflections and insights to future generations.

A good set of Bible highlighters and pens is essential for deepening your Scripture study. These no-bleed highlighters allow you to mark key passages, take notes, and track themes without damaging the delicate pages of your Bible. If you want to build a lasting legacy of faith, this is a great place to start.

Bible Highlighters and Pen Set

6. United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

Our OCIA director gifted this to my husband and me, and it quickly became one of the most useful resources in our faith journey. The United States Catholic Catechism for Adults takes the richness of the Catechism and makes it easier to digest. It includes reflections, discussion questions, and even stories of the saints to illustrate key teachings.

Produced by the USCCB, this catechism is a trustworthy and faithful guide for understanding Catholic doctrine. Whether you're a convert, a catechist, or just looking to deepen your knowledge, this book is an incredible companion on the journey.

United States Catholic Catechism for Adults

7. Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC)

While the previous catechism is fantastic for accessibility, nothing beats the depth, beauty, and inspiration of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This book isn’t just an instructional manual—it’s a resource for prayer, meditation, and study.

If you want to truly understand what the Church teaches, this is the definitive guide. And honestly, this particular edition is priced so well that there’s no reason not to have a copy in your home. Every Catholic household should own one—it’s an ever-reliable source for faith formation, answering questions, and deepening your relationship with Christ.

Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC)

Final Thoughts

These are the resources that have helped us the most in our journey into the Church, and we hope they can bless you too. Whether you’re just beginning to explore Catholicism or looking to deepen a lifelong faith, these books and tools can guide, inspire, and equip you for the road ahead.

What books or resources have shaped your faith the most? We’d love to hear your recommendations!

How the Early Church Celebrated Easter

Introduction

Easter is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, the celebration of Christ’s resurrection and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. But how did the earliest Christians observe this most sacred of days? Long before modern traditions like sunrise services, chocolate eggs, and floral decorations, the first believers commemorated Easter with deep reverence, powerful symbolism, and a focus on the resurrection’s transformative power in their lives.

By looking at the practices of the early Church, we can gain insight into how the first followers of Christ understood Easter, what it meant to them, and how their traditions can deepen our own celebration of the risen Lord.

Easter in the Apostolic and Early Church

1. The Jewish Roots of Easter: The Paschal Connection

The first Christians, many of whom were Jewish, saw Easter as the fulfillment of Passover (Pesach). Just as the Passover lamb was slain and its blood marked the doorposts of the faithful, Jesus—the Lamb of God—was sacrificed for the salvation of the world.

One of the earliest historical references to this connection comes from Melito of Sardis (c. 160 AD), who wrote a homily called On the Pascha, which describes Jesus as the true Passover Lamb. In this sermon, Melito proclaims that just as the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt, humanity is freed from sin through Christ’s sacrifice. This early understanding shaped Christian theology and deepened the Church’s Easter celebrations.

The early Church’s Easter celebration was deeply tied to this Paschal mystery, emphasizing that Christ’s resurrection was the new exodus—the deliverance from the slavery of sin and death. Many of the first Christians continued to observe Passover but did so in the light of the resurrection, seeing Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb.

2. The Vigil and Baptismal Celebrations

One of the most significant early Christian practices was the Easter Vigil, an all-night gathering of prayer, Scripture readings, and hymn singing that culminated in the dawn celebration of the resurrection.

We have historical accounts from figures like Tertullian (c. 200 AD) and Hippolytus of Rome (c. 215 AD), who describe how the Easter Vigil was the most sacred time for baptisms. According to Hippolytus’ Apostolic Tradition, catechumens (new believers preparing for baptism) would fast, renounce sin, and profess their faith before being immersed in water at sunrise—symbolizing their passage from death to life in Christ.

Even today, the Easter Vigil remains one of the most solemn and beautiful liturgies in the Church, echoing these early traditions., an all-night gathering of prayer, Scripture readings, and hymn singing that culminated in the dawn celebration of the resurrection.

3. The Celebration of the Eucharist

At the heart of the early Easter observance was the celebration of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). The early Christians gathered to break bread in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice, just as He commanded at the Last Supper.

One of the earliest descriptions of an Easter Eucharist comes from Justin Martyr (c. 155 AD), who wrote in his First Apology about Christian worship. He explains how believers met on Sunday, read from the Scriptures, prayed, and then received the Eucharist, which they saw as the true body and blood of Christ. This testimony provides a glimpse into how central the Eucharist was to early Easter celebrations.

The Eucharistic feast was not only a commemoration of the resurrection but a participation in it—the real presence of Christ among His people. The joy of the risen Lord permeated their gatherings, as they proclaimed, “Christ is risen! Truly, He is risen!”. The early Christians gathered to break bread in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice, just as He commanded at the Last Supper.

Fasting, Feasting, and the Joy of the Resurrection

1. The Fast Leading to Easter (The Origins of Lent)

Early Christians prepared for Easter through fasting, a practice that evolved into what we now call Lent. While modern Lent lasts 40 days, early fasting traditions varied—some fasted for a few days before Easter, while others extended their preparation for weeks.

One historical account comes from Eusebius of Caesarea (c. 325 AD), who noted in Church History that different Christian communities had different lengths for their pre-Easter fasts. By the time of the Council of Nicaea (325 AD), the 40-day fast had become more standardized, leading to the Lenten practice we recognize today.

The purpose of fasting was not mere ritual but a spiritual preparation, a way of aligning oneself with Christ’s suffering before rejoicing in His victory. This self-denial heightened the joy of Easter morning, making the feast all the more celebratory.. While modern Lent lasts 40 days, early fasting traditions varied—some fasted for a few days before Easter, while others extended their preparation for weeks.

2. The Easter Feast: A Time of Great Rejoicing

After the solemnity of Lent and Holy Week, Easter was marked by joyful feasting. The resurrection was not just a doctrine to be affirmed—it was a lived reality, a victory worth celebrating. The early Christians saw their Easter feasts as a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, a tangible expression of the joy of salvation.

One well-documented account comes from John Chrysostom (c. 400 AD), whose famous Easter Homily reflects the exuberant joy of the feast. He calls all—those who have fasted and those who have not—to join in the celebration, emphasizing that the resurrection is a gift to all. His words capture the spirit of early Christian Easter feasts, where the entire community rejoiced in Christ’s victory over death.

This tradition continues today, as many cultures observe Easter with festive meals, reinforcing the deep spiritual meaning behind the celebration.. The resurrection was not just a doctrine to be affirmed—it was a lived reality, a victory worth celebrating. The early Christians saw their Easter feasts as a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, a tangible expression of the joy of salvation.

The Message of Easter: Living the Resurrection

For the early Church, Easter was not just a single day of celebration—it was the defining event of their faith. They saw themselves as Easter people, called to live in the power of the resurrection every day.

This is the same challenge we face today. Easter is more than a holiday; it is a call to renewal, to embrace the new life Christ offers. As the first Christians boldly proclaimed the risen Christ, so too are we called to reflect His light, live in His victory, and share the hope of the resurrection with the world.

How can we reclaim the depth of Easter in our own lives? How can we celebrate as the early Church did—with a focus on Christ’s victory, the power of the sacraments, and the joy of new life in Him?

For more on Easter, check out the Catechism of The Catholic Church. My favorite version is the one put out by the USCCB with added teaching and devotional elements. But you can also check out the most inexpensive version. Either way, this volume is essential for any Catholic family.

If this article inspired you, you can visit our store to help support us.

The Face of God Series: The Face of God in Isaiah Chapter 5

Read Isaiah 5 on Bible Gateway

Introduction

Isaiah 5 is often remembered for its parable of the vineyard—a powerful metaphor for Israel’s failure to live up to its calling. But if we read only in terms of judgment, we miss the heart of the chapter. Isaiah 5 does not just describe a people who have gone astray—it reveals a God who cares deeply, who cultivates, who invests in His people with patience and love. The anger we see here is not the rage of an indifferent ruler but the sorrow of a rejected caretaker. This chapter invites us to see God as a devoted gardener, a just king, and a protector of righteousness—one who longs for His people to bear fruit and thrive.

As we study Isaiah 5, let’s look not only at what God says about Israel’s failures, but at what these words reveal about His own nature. Who is the God of Isaiah 5? What does He desire? And how does this shape our understanding of Him today?

God as the Devoted Gardener

Isaiah 5:1-2

"Let me now sing of my friend, my friend’s song concerning his vineyard. My friend had a vineyard on a fertile hillside; He spaded it, cleared it of stones, and planted the choicest vines; Within it, he built a watchtower, and hewed out a wine press. Then he waited for the crop of grapes, but it yielded rotten grapes."

What This Reveals About God

From the opening lines, Isaiah paints a picture of deep care. The vineyard is not a wild, neglected patch of earth—it is carefully chosen, cleared, planted, protected, and nurtured. Every effort has been made for it to flourish. This is not a passive, distant God—this is a gardener who labors over His vineyard, investing time, effort, and devotion.

And yet, despite all His care, the vineyard produces rotten grapes—fruit that is bitter, unusable. This is where we see God’s sorrow. He has done everything necessary for His people to flourish, and yet they have rejected His guidance. This is not the frustration of someone who demands instant obedience; it is the heartache of a God who has poured Himself out in love, only to be met with rebellion.

This passage challenges us to reflect on our own response to God’s care. If we see Him as a harsh taskmaster, we will resist His tending. But if we see Him as the gardener of our souls—one who carefully cultivates us for our good—we can learn to trust His pruning, His care, and His deep investment in our lives.

This trust is not passive; it calls us to respond. We can actively cooperate with His work by seeking Him daily, surrendering areas of our hearts that need refining, and embracing spiritual disciplines like prayer and Scripture study. When we experience hardship, we can reframe it as an opportunity to grow rather than a sign of abandonment. By intentionally aligning our lives with His nurturing hand, we allow ourselves to flourish as He intended, bearing the fruit of righteousness and deepening our relationship with Him.

God as the Just Judge

Isaiah 5:3-4

"Now, inhabitants of Jerusalem and people of Judah, judge between me and my vineyard: What more could be done for my vineyard that I had not done? Why, when I waited for the crop of grapes, did it yield rotten grapes?"

What This Reveals About God

God does not bring judgment without reason—He invites His people to examine the situation themselves. “What more could I have done?” This is not an arbitrary God acting in anger; this is a God who has exhausted every avenue to lead His people toward righteousness.

This moment in the text is striking because God steps back and asks for judgment on Himself. He does not simply declare the people guilty—He asks them to consider if He has been unjust, if there was any lack in His care. This is the mark of a just God. He does not act without cause. He does not take pleasure in discipline. He longs for His people to see clearly, to understand why things are as they are.

For us today, this passage reveals God’s patience. He does not rush to condemnation. He lays out the evidence, appeals to reason, and only after all else has failed does He act in judgment. His justice is never separate from His mercy. This should encourage us to practice patience and discernment in our own lives.

When faced with wrongdoing—whether in ourselves or in others—we should seek understanding, extend grace, and work toward restoration before resorting to harsh conclusions. Just as God carefully considers every step before acting, we are called to approach conflict, correction, and justice with the same wisdom and mercy. This means engaging in thoughtful conversations, allowing room for repentance, and ensuring that our pursuit of justice is always motivated by love rather than retribution.

God the Lover of Justice

Isaiah 5:7

"The vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel, the people of Judah, his cherished plant; He waited for judgment, but see, bloodshed! For justice, but hark, the outcry!"

What This Reveals About God

The sorrow of this passage is in the contrast between God’s expectations and the people’s reality. He waited for justice, but saw bloodshed. He longed for righteousness, but heard only cries of distress.

God is not indifferent to injustice. He is not a passive observer who shrugs at corruption, oppression, and violence. He longs for justice—not as an abstract idea, but as a reality among His people. The deep grief in this passage shows us a God who does not turn a blind eye to suffering. His holiness demands righteousness, not because He is rigid, but because He desires a world where goodness reigns.

This is where we see the unbreakable connection between God’s holiness and His love. If God did not care, He would not judge. If He were indifferent, He would not call for justice. His anger is the fire of love outraged by oppression. His judgment is the necessary step to restore what has been broken.

Recognizing this truth should stir us to action. If we are called to reflect God's character, then we must also take a stand for justice in our own lives. This means advocating for those who are mistreated, holding ourselves and others accountable to truth, and resisting the temptation to remain silent in the face of wrongdoing.

It also means examining our own hearts—are there areas where we have excused injustice or justified sin? Do we seek justice only when it benefits us, or are we willing to uphold it even when it is difficult? God's holiness calls us not just to observe righteousness, but to actively pursue it in our communities, our workplaces, and our daily interactions.

God as the Defender of Righteousness

Isaiah 5:20-23

"Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil, who change darkness to light, and light into darkness, who change bitter to sweet, and sweet into bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own sight, and prudent in their own esteem! Woe to the champions at drinking wine, the valiant at mixing strong drink! Acquitting the guilty for bribes, depriving the innocent of justice!"

What This Reveals About God

This passage reveals a God who is deeply concerned with justice—not just in the legal sense, but in the moral and societal fabric of His people. The people have twisted morality, flipping good and evil upside down, and in doing so, they have abandoned the foundation of righteousness that God desires.

God’s judgment here is not arbitrary; it is a response to deep corruption. He condemns those who manipulate truth for personal gain, who exploit others, and who distort justice for profit. This is not just about individual sins but a systemic perversion of what is right—leaders, influencers, and the powerful using their positions for self-indulgence rather than for the protection of the innocent.

Here, we see God’s heart as the defender of the oppressed. He does not ignore corruption, nor does He stand by as the innocent suffer. He is a God who demands righteousness, not for the sake of rules, but because justice is the natural expression of His holy love. To love God is to love justice, and to distort justice is to oppose His very nature.

Recognizing this should move us to action. We are called to mirror God's heart by advocating for the vulnerable, speaking against injustice, and living lives of integrity. This means not only avoiding wrongdoing ourselves but actively working to correct the systems and structures that enable oppression.

In practical terms, this could mean supporting ethical businesses, using our voices to call out corruption, volunteering for organizations that aid the marginalized, and ensuring that in our own interactions, we prioritize truth, fairness, and mercy. Justice is not just a concept—it is a way of life that reflects God's nature, and as His people, we are to embody it in every aspect of our lives.

God as the One Who Calls Us Back

Isaiah 5:25

"Therefore the wrath of the LORD blazes against his people, he stretches out his hand to strike them; The mountains quake, their corpses shall be like refuse in the streets. For all this, his anger is not turned back, his hand is still outstretched."

What This Reveals About God

The phrase “His hand is still outstretched” is key here. It appears multiple times in Isaiah, and while it can indicate continued judgment, it also carries another meaning: God is still calling. Even in His discipline, He is not finished with His people. He is not looking for an excuse to destroy them—He is waiting for them to turn back.

God’s discipline is never about annihilation. It is about purification. His desire is always restoration. Even when He allows hardship, it is never out of cruelty—it is the work of a Father who is unwilling to leave His children in ruin. But this purification requires our cooperation.

When we experience trials, rather than becoming bitter or discouraged, we can ask God what He is refining within us. We can actively engage in this process by examining our hearts, repenting where needed, and seeking His guidance through prayer and Scripture. Just as gold is purified by fire, our faith is strengthened when we surrender to God’s refining work. Rather than resisting discipline, we can view it as a sign of God’s deep investment in our transformation—an invitation to greater holiness and intimacy with Him.

Final Reflection: The Face of God in Isaiah 5

Isaiah 5 is often seen as a chapter of judgment, but at its core, it is about the heart of God—a God who cultivates, who longs for righteousness, and who never stops calling His people back. This is not a God of blind wrath. This is a God who plants with love, who waits with patience, and who disciplines not to destroy, but to restore.

This is the God of Isaiah—the God whose holiness is inseparable from His love, whose justice is never devoid of mercy, and whose discipline is always aimed at redemption. He is the Gardener, the Judge, the Defender, and the Redeemer. And He is calling us to trust in His care, to walk in His ways, and to bear the fruit of righteousness in our lives.

What does this chapter reveal to you about God? How does it shape the way you see His justice, His love, and His call on your life?

For more Biblical insights, get your information from the same source I draw many of my own: The Ignatius Press Catholic Study Bible.

When The Face of God in Isaiah series is complete, you can visit our store to purchase a copy.

How to Make the Most of the Liturgical Year: A Guide to Living the Church Calendar

Introduction: Why the Liturgical Year Matters

For Catholics, time isn’t just measured in days and months—it’s woven into the rhythm of the liturgical year, a sacred cycle that guides us through the life of Christ. From the quiet anticipation of Advent to the joyous celebration of Easter, the Church invites us to step into God’s time, aligning our spiritual lives with the mysteries of salvation.

But living the liturgical year isn’t just about attending Mass on feast days—it’s about letting these seasons shape our hearts, homes, and daily routines. So how can we enter more fully into the richness of the Church calendar?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to live out each liturgical season with intention, making the rhythms of the Church a natural and life-giving part of our daily lives.

And to stay more deeply in tune with the cycles of liturgical life and the Church as a body, consider investing in a copy of The Liturgy of The Hours, and pray in solidarity with clergy, religious, and lay people throughout the world.

1. Advent: Preparing for Christ with Expectant Hope

Advent marks the beginning of the Church year—a season of waiting, longing, and preparation for the coming of Christ. While the world rushes into Christmas celebrations, Advent calls us to slow down, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the Savior.

Ways to Live Advent Well:

• Light an Advent wreath and pray as a family before meals or bedtime.
• Set aside quiet time for Scripture—read the O Antiphons or the prophecies of Isaiah.
• Practice small acts of sacrifice to prepare room for Christ in your heart.
• Attend an Advent retreat or reflection night at your parish.
• Incorporate the St. Andrew Christmas Novena beginning on November 30th.

Action Tip: Choose one Advent tradition to focus on this year and let it shape your preparation for Christmas.

2. Christmas: Rejoicing in the Incarnation

Christmas isn’t just a day—it’s a season of celebrating the mystery of the Incarnation, when God became man to dwell among us.

Ways to Live Christmas Fully:

• Keep the celebration going—observe the full 12 days of Christmas instead of rushing back to ordinary life.
• Reflect on the meaning of Emmanuel, God with us, through prayer and gratitude.
• Celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family by praying together and honoring family relationships.
• Sing traditional Christmas carols that reflect on the birth of Christ.
• Give small, meaningful gifts on Epiphany to reflect the gifts of the Magi.

Action Tip: Find a way to extend the spirit of Christmas beyond December 25th—whether through continued prayer, giving, or joyful hospitality.

3. Lent: A Season of Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving

Lent is a call to conversion, a time to strip away distractions and turn our hearts back to God. Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, we imitate Christ’s 40 days in the desert and prepare for the joy of Easter.

Ways to Enter Lent Deeply:

• Choose a meaningful fast—not just giving up chocolate, but something that leads to spiritual renewal.
• Commit to daily prayer, such as the Stations of the Cross or meditating on Christ’s Passion.
• Find ways to serve others—whether through charitable giving or acts of mercy.
• Attend a Lenten mission or retreat to deepen your understanding of the season.
• Incorporate a daily spiritual reading like the writings of the Church Fathers or reflections on the Passion.

Action Tip: Instead of focusing on “giving something up,” ask yourself: How can I grow closer to Christ this Lent?

4. Easter: Living in the Joy of the Resurrection

Easter is the high point of the liturgical year—a 50-day season of rejoicing in Christ’s victory over sin and death. But how often do we really live the full Easter season, rather than just Easter Sunday?

Ways to Keep the Easter Celebration Alive:

• Pray the Regina Caeli instead of the Angelus during the Easter season.
• Read and reflect on the Resurrection accounts in the Gospels.
• Share the joy—hospitality, feasting, and gratitude are ways to live Easter in daily life.
• Celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday by praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
• Host a small Easter gathering with family or friends to keep the spirit alive.

Action Tip: Make a plan to celebrate all 50 days of Easter, not just one Sunday!

5. Ordinary Time: Growing in Daily Discipleship

Ordinary Time isn’t “ordinary” at all—it’s the season of growth, mission, and deepening our faith in the everyday moments of life.

Ways to Live Ordinary Time with Purpose:

• Follow the daily Mass readings to stay connected to the rhythm of the Church.
• Develop a new spiritual habit—whether it’s reading Scripture, learning about a saint, or deepening your prayer life.
• Use the liturgical calendar as a guide for celebrating feast days and holy days throughout the year.
• Begin a Bible study to explore Scripture more deeply.
• Learn about the lives of the saints and incorporate their wisdom into your daily routine.

Action Tip: Find one spiritual practice or devotion to focus on during Ordinary Time, making it a season of intentional growth.

Final Thoughts: Letting the Church’s Seasons Shape Your Life

The liturgical year isn’t just a Church tradition—it’s an invitation to journey with Christ, allowing each season to form our hearts and deepen our relationship with Him. Whether you’re lighting an Advent candle, fasting in Lent, or celebrating the joy of Easter, these rhythms help us enter more fully into the mystery of our faith.

Each season offers new graces and opportunities for renewal. The beauty of the liturgical year is that it reflects the ebb and flow of our spiritual lives—times of preparation, celebration, penance, and mission.

Want a structured way to engage with the liturgical year? Download our Liturgical Living Guide for practical ways to bring each season into your home and daily life!

How to Build a Daily Prayer Routine That Actually Sticks

Introduction: Why Daily Prayer Feels Hard (And How to Overcome It)

Many Catholics long for a deeper prayer life but struggle to make it a daily habit. Life gets busy, distractions creep in, and before we know it, prayer feels like another item on an endless to-do list. But prayer isn’t supposed to be a burden—it’s meant to be a source of peace, strength, and connection with God.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to establish a daily prayer routine, you’re not alone. The good news? God isn’t asking for perfection—He’s inviting you into relationship. A sustainable prayer life doesn’t require hours of devotion each day; it starts with small, intentional steps that fit into your real life.

In this guide, we’ll walk through simple, effective ways to build a daily prayer routine that feels natural, enriching, and sustainable—one that draws you closer to Christ, no matter where you are in your faith journey.

1. Start Small: The Power of Short, Consistent Prayer

Read why consistency in prayer matters from Church teachings on daily devotion.

Many people think that a “good” prayer life means setting aside an hour every morning for deep contemplation. But in reality, prayer is about the heart, not the clock. It’s better to pray for five minutes every day than for an hour once a week. The goal is to build consistency, even if it starts small.

Ways to Start Small:

• Begin with a simple morning offering before getting out of bed.
• Pray one decade of the Rosary instead of feeling pressured to complete all five.
• Use a short written prayer like the Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Action Tip: Start with just five minutes a day and let your prayer life grow naturally from there. God honors even the smallest efforts to turn our hearts toward Him.

2. Tie Prayer to Existing Habits

One of the best ways to build a habit is to attach it to something you already do. This removes the struggle of “finding time” because prayer becomes naturally integrated into your daily routine.

Examples of Habit-Based Prayer:

• Morning Coffee & Prayer: Say a short prayer while waiting for your coffee to brew.
• Driving & the Rosary: Listen to an audio Rosary during your commute.
• Bedtime & Examen: Reflect on your day with the Ignatian Examen before sleeping.

Action Tip: Pick a daily activity and attach a short prayer to it—soon, it will become second nature. Prayer is meant to weave into the fabric of your life, not be something separate from it.

3. Use Prayer Tools to Stay Focused

Discover the richness of the Liturgy of the Hours and how it can anchor your daily prayer routine.

Distraction is one of the biggest obstacles to consistent prayer. Thankfully, there are many tools that can help keep your mind engaged and your heart focused.

Helpful Prayer Tools:

• Prayer Apps – Try Hallow or iBreviary for guided prayer and the Liturgy of the Hours.
• A Prayer Journal – Writing your prayers helps with focus and reflection.
• Sacred Music or Chant – Listening to Gregorian chant or worship music can set the tone for prayer.
• The Liturgy of The Hours -- A set of prayers prayed daily by clergy, religious, and laypeople around the world.

Action Tip: Experiment with one new prayer tool this week to see what helps you stay engaged. If one method doesn’t work, try another—prayer is deeply personal, and finding what works for you is part of the journey.

4. Embrace Flexibility: Prayer Looks Different for Everyone

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to prayer. Your routine should reflect your season of life and personal spiritual style. God meets you where you are—what matters is faithfulness, not perfection.

Ways to Adapt Prayer to Your Life:

• Parents with Young Kids: Pray together as a family at meals or bedtime.
• Busy Professionals: Use short Scripture reflections during lunch breaks.
• Night Owls vs. Early Birds: Pray at the time when you feel most alert and receptive.

Action Tip: Give yourself permission to pray in a way that feels natural and sustainable, rather than forcing a rigid routine. Prayer should be life-giving, not another obligation.

5. Anchor Your Prayer Life with the Church’s Rhythms

Explore the daily Mass readings as a way to stay connected to the liturgical life of the Church.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Catholicism is its liturgical calendar—a built-in rhythm of prayer that helps us stay spiritually grounded. When we align our prayer life with the rhythms of the Church, we deepen our connection to Christ and the communion of saints.

Ways to Root Your Prayer in Tradition:

• Follow the Daily Readings – Reflect on the Mass readings of the day.
• Pray the Liturgy of the Hours – Even just Morning or Night Prayer connects you to the universal Church.
• Observe Feasts & Saints’ Days – Learn from the example of the saints and incorporate their prayers.

Action Tip: Choose one liturgical practice to incorporate into your daily prayer routine. The Church offers us a wealth of spiritual resources—let them nourish your soul.

Final Thoughts: Build a Prayer Life That Feeds Your Soul

A strong daily prayer habit isn’t about doing more—it’s about praying with intention and consistency in a way that fits your life. Start small, use the tools that work for you, and embrace flexibility while staying rooted in the Church’s traditions.

Above all, remember that prayer is an invitation, not a performance. God delights in your presence, whether your prayer is long or short, structured or spontaneous. Keep showing up, and He will meet you there.

Want a structured way to deepen your prayer life? Download our 30-Day Prayer Guide to receive daily inspiration and prompts for building a consistent, meaningful routine!