Deep in the cliffs of Provence lies a mountain cave holding thousands of years of mystery. Join us as we explore the Grotto of Mary Magdalene at Sainte-Baume, tracing a journey that moved from a sail-less raft on the Mediterranean to a silent sanctuary 3,000 feet in the sky.
What if you could follow in the footsteps of Mary Magdalene, from the shores of Southern France to the mountain cave where tradition says she spent her final years? In this first reflection, journey with me to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue, where ancient traditions tell of Mary Magdalene’s arrival in Provence and consider what her faith can teach us about trusting God when the future is uncertain.
A smell, a taste, a melody, or a forgotten texture can suddenly collapse the distance between past and present. Inspired by Marcel Proust and the idea of the “Madeleine de Proust,” this post reflects on how memory always lives within us, not to hold us back, but to remind us how deeply we have lived and been shaped by time.
At the moment of Jesus’ death, the temple veil tore from top to bottom, signifying the end of separation between humanity and God. This reflection explores what the torn veil means for grace, access, and how we still rebuild barriers God has already destroyed.
The Mistral has raged for the past few days, a freezing wind from the north that knows no mercy. This wind doesn’t whisper; it roars. You don’t bargain with it; … Continue reading Finding Light and Wisdom in the Maddening Mistral
Last weekend, I wandered down to the shore and gingerly stepped into the water, an act I instantly regretted. The cold hit my foot, and I yanked it out before … Continue reading Why Fish on Friday?
Saint Valentine, a third-century Christian priest, defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage by performing secret unions for young couples. His actions led to his arrest and subsequent execution on February 14, 269 AD. Over time, his feast day transformed from a commemoration of martyrdom to a celebration of love and romance.
Crêpes or a groundhog. Which one would you choose? On February 2nd, France celebrates La Chandeleur. Officially, this day commemorates the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem, forty days after his … Continue reading La Chandeleur
Amy L. Griffin 