Sometimes when we start a new year, we can be eager to brush off all that went wrong the year before. However, it's important to reflect on the many positive and inspiring things that also happened in 2023, at home and in the world at large.
To help you in your reflections, here are just a handful of stories that have not only inspired us but fill us with hope that 2024 will also be full of blessings and people who fill us with admiration.
A celebrity's devotion to the Virgin Mary sparks discussion
The Virgin Mary is once more the source of inspiration when actor Mark Wahlberg's open devotion to her generated much positive conversation on social media.
Star soccer player is baptized at 46
When the Brazilian soccer player Ronaldo decided to join the Catholic Church in his forties, he showed the world that we can be open to embracing our faith at any age, and at any stage in our life.
College students honoring Our Lady
These football players take the time to pay their respects to the Blessed Virgin at every match. Watching them sing in Latin reminds us that the Catholic faith is still strong among today's youth.
Excellent advice for when we're feeling anxious
Fr. David Michael Moses continued to inspire us with his outlook on the role faith can play in our daily lives. This one particular piece of advice on dealing with anxiety resonated with many and is extremely helpful.
Movies with lessons that inspire
Last year saw a myriad of films with positive messages -- from The Hill, which highlighted the power of faith, to the recent release of Freud's Last Session,which put God's existence in the spotlight. And the popular octogenarian Maggie Smith, from Downton Abbey, inspired us all with her performance in The Miracle Club.
The strength of moms
It's always wonderful to read how moms are inspired by their families to achieve great things. This particular mom was so determined to graduate that she wouldn't let going into labor stop her from picking up her much-deserved certificate.
The strength of preemies!
This incredible story reveals just how powerful the human body can be. Born dead at 23 weeks old, this baby boy went on to join the NFL this year.
A man's best friend in life and death
Pictures of a bishop's devoted four-legged friend grieving at his funeral broke hearts as they were shared on social media. Once again, we got to appreciate just how important it is to cherish the animals in our lives.
An everyday hero inspired by his faith
In this heart-stopping moment, a man dashed across the road and endangered his own life to rescue a woman in danger. He claimed his actions were the result of God's intervention.
