It was a Tuesday evening when I encountered my younger brother in the hospital hallway outside the room where Dad had been admitted the day prior.

St. Macrina the Younger was simply a big sister who never stopped showing up for her family. She cared for her widowed mother, raised her younger siblings (including two future saints), and turned her family estate into a monastery where service and community thrived. In this post, author Janet Tamez explores how St. Macrina made family her mission and what her example can teach us about building unity when life is pulling us in different directions. If you’re longing for deeper connection with your loved ones, her story might just hold the blueprint.

Paula Veloso Babadi reflects on the dichotomy of life circumstances and how we fill our cups with tears or joy.