Good morning! As we head toward the close of Advent, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell share more thoughts on making the most of these last few days of the season. Guests include pastoral counselor Kevin Prendergast with tips for combatting loneliness during the holidays, and Rita Heikenfeld on the symbolism of the 12 days of Christmas and a recipe for a homemade pomegranate vinaigrette. Plus news, weather, sports and more…

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Prayer to St. Jude for the sick

St. Jude, you witnessed the healing power of our Lord Jesus.  You saw His compassion for the sick and dying.  You yourself touched the sick, shared the sorrows of the mournful, and encouraged the despairing.  You received this authority and healing power to work wonders, to cure the incurable, to make people whole.  We ask you to intercede with our brother, Jesus, to send His saving grace to heal the sickness and suffering of all who are ill, to uplift their despondent spirits, and to instill hope in their hearts. Amen.

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RECIPE FROM RITA: POMEGRANATE VINIAGRETTE

Ingredients:
1 cup pomegranate seeds
½ cup olive oil
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon each: lemon juice and white balsamic vinegar
Big squirt Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Put all ingredients in your blender.
Blend on low speed and gradually increase to high.Continue blending on high for 30-60 seconds or until your dressing is smooth and all pomegranate seeds have been blended.

TIP:
For easy removal of pomegranate seeds, I cut the pomegrante into 4ths, then put them in a bowl of water and with my hands, just scrape out the seeds from the skin/flesh under the water. Drain and use or freeze!

More recipes at abouteating.com.

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Dr. Jeffrey Morrow is online at ascensionpress.com.

Full list of guests