What is interesting about Groundhog Day, in which a humble mammal, also known as a “Whistle Pig” or “Ground Squirrel,” becomes a celebrity for a day, is that the secular tradition has its roots in the Catholic faith.

The feast of the conversion of St. Paul, Jan. 25, enlightens us to the fact that the saints were also human and some had to be “set straight” before beginning their mission.

Epiphany comes from the Greek word “epiphania,” or “manifestation.” The feast of Epiphany, also known as “three kings day,” is traditionally celebrated the 12th day after Christmas, Jan. 6. In the dioceses of the United States this feast has been moved to the Sunday between Jan. 2 and Jan. 8. This year’s solemnity will be celebrated Jan. 3.

Deciding what Christmas Mass to attend can be one of the more difficult decisions facing families during the holiday season.

It is said that St. Francis was so overcome by emotion while preaching he was unable to say the name Jesus, speaking about him as “the babe of Bethlehem” since he was “unable to utter his name for the tenderness of his love.”