NEW YORK. The life of the Blessed Mother, from before her birth to the flight into Egypt, is recounted with varying levels of artistic adeptness in the uneven biography “Mary” (UnratedNetflix). Though the result is not always satisfying, the production overall is both reverent and engaging. The film is also suitable for a wide audience.

“Where flowers bloom so does hope.” — Lady Bird Johnson.

If you haven’t experienced the amaryllis, you should, and if you have, you know that its beauty can only be described as spectacular!

The halo is a phenomenon seen in nature as a ring around the sun or moon, a result of refracted or reflected light. The corona (Latin for “wreath”) surrounding the sun during a total eclipse is similar. Any of these forms of halo may be called a nimbus (Latin for “cloud”). Some authorities suggest that these titles may be used interchangeably, along with aura, aureole, glory or gloriole (Latin: “a small glory”).

Sometimes in the midst of all the familial, commercial and year-end activities that are a part of the holidays, our spiritual life can take a bit of a hit. Here are some book recommendations that might help remind us all about why this season should be filled with wonder and joy, and not simply frenzy.

Christmas is amazing. It is a homage to the singular, foundational event of Christianity, yet it is celebrated and promoted by people worldwide, regardless of faith.  In the United States, it is the only religious day that is also a federal holiday. Whether you go to midnight Mass, Christmas Eve service, or make a point to say “Happy holidays,” if you engage with the holiday season, you are acknowledging the birth of Christ. And regardless of what you believe in that respect, you cannot deny the central importance of the implications of that idea.