I want to teach my kids that Jesus gave up so much more than his daily caffeine fix—he died for them.

In December 1995, Dr. Jean Augustine (the first African-Canadian woman elected to the House of Commons) led the motion for Canada to officially recognize February as Black History Month. Today, Black History Month provides the opportunity to recognize and celebrate contributions of Black Canadians of the past and present.

What about trying a family resolution this year?

In a wintry season of the soul, when we can’t sense God’s presence or feel spiritual growth within us, it can be helpful to remember the ways God has been there for us in the past, and to trust that God is with us still.

At a time when, as Canadians, we are confronted with our colonial past, we pray, “Forgive us our debts, our sins," says retired Salvation Army officer Major Ray Harris in his review of Donald E. Burke's "The Lord's Prayer: Drawing Heaven and Earth Together."

As we walk into 2021, we are reminded that we are still purveyors of hope.

If there was ever a time in history when our world needs the presence, ministry, love and service of The Salvation Army, it is now! It is my prayer that in 2021 we will be an Army that is out there, not confined to barracks by COVID or any other oppression, but that we will be a people mobilized by the Spirit, compelled by love and battle-ready. Because God is with us.

Showing thoughtfulness and kindness to the strangers in our church is to show our love for God.

Let us ask ourselves what we can do, especially in a year that may be one of the most difficult Christmas seasons in recent memory, to bring light to the darkness.

Beyond their predictable storylines, aesthetically pleasing sets and model casts, is it possible that Hallmark movies reveal something about our culture?