From Holidays to Holy Days by Albert Holtz

From Holidays to Holy Days by Albert Holtz

Rather than criticizing trappings of the holiday season, this book looks at them from the viewpoint of Christian contemplation, once aptly described as a long, loving look at the real.

The author, a Benedictine monk who lives in the center of downtown Newark, New Jersey, invites the reader to join him on his daily walks as he points out dozens of often-unnoticed connections between our holidays and the spiritual meaning of Advent and Christmas. In a string of colored lights, a crowd of shoppers, or the window of a toy store, he uncovers such traditional Advent themes as watchful waiting, repentance, and selfless love. On the bustling sidewalks, he introduces us to Isaiah, John the Baptist, and Jesus himself, all speaking their ancient Advent and Christmas messages of peace and hope and good will.

Albert Holtz, OSB, is a monk of Newark Abbey in Newark, New Jersey, where he is the director of formation and teaches New Testament in the monastery's inner-city prep school. His frequent long walks on the streets of downtown Newark have made him familiar with the people and the scenes of his native city. He gives retreats to monasteries of men and women around the United States and has published several books of meditations, including Pilgrim Road: A Benedictine Journey Through Lent and From Holidays to Holy Days: A Benedictine Journey Through Advent and Christmas.