Be the Light: A Journey of Faith and Hope

This past weekend, I traveled to Bethesda, Maryland, for the National Christ Child Society Conference, held under the theme Be the Light. Before the conference officially began, we took a day trip into Washington, D.C., that became much more than sightseeing; It became a living reflection of what it means to carry Christ’s light into the world.

Our first stop was the Opportunity Shop run by the DC Chapter of the Christ Child Society. This high-end resale shop raises money to fund the chapter’s programs for children and families in need. Walking through the shop, I saw how gently used items - clothing, jewelry, household goods - are transformed into hope and opportunity for others. The shop embodied the theme so beautifully: ordinary things, given with love, become extraordinary light for those in need.

From there, we went to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Stepping into the Basilica was like stepping into a sacred embrace. The brilliance of the mosaics and the peaceful silence reminded me that Christ is the true Light of the world, and Mary reflects that light by leading us closer to Him. In that space, I felt the call of our Society’s mission: just as Mary said “yes” to God, we are called to say “yes” to serving children and families. Surrounded by Christ Child members from across the country, I felt encouraged to bring this light back to my own community.

Next, we visited the Washington Monument. Rising high above the Reflecting Pool, its marble tower gleamed in the afternoon light. To me, it stood as a symbol of aspiration, an invitation to live lives marked by integrity, service, and hope. Even in playful moments, like holding the monument in my hand for a photo, I was reminded that each of us, no matter how small we feel in history’s sweep, is called to be a light in the time and place where God has planted us.

At the World War II Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial, I reflected on the light of courage and sacrifice. The WWII Memorial honors men and women who gave their lives so others could live in freedom. At the same time, the Lincoln Memorial enshrines the memory of a leader who guided a divided nation. Their legacies challenge us to be the light in times of division by defending dignity, praying for peace, and seeking reconciliation. Just as these memorials shine as reminders of resilience, our own lives are meant to shine with God’s love in difficult times. 

When the conference began, one of the highlights was hearing Dr. Ben Carson deliver his keynote address. He spoke about his upbringing, the challenges he faced, and the way his mother instilled in him the importance of reading. Literacy, he said, opened the door to his future. His story resonated deeply with me and with the Christ Child Society’s programs, many of which focus on literacy for children. 

As I listened, I thought about why I write children’s books. Stories shape hearts and minds, spark imagination, and plant seeds of faith and hope. Books can open a child’s world, just as they did for Dr. Carson, and provide a foundation for dignity and opportunity. Writing for children is, for me, one way to be the light as I place words and images into young hands that affirm their worth and point them toward God’s love. Dr. Carson’s story was a confirmation that literacy is not just about learning to read; it is about opening doors to the future and helping children see the light within themselves.

Throughout the weekend, I was also blessed by the people God placed in my path. Getting to know MaryAnne and Barb, fellow members of the Quad Cities Chapter, deepened my appreciation for the friendships and shared mission that sustain us. An unexpected joy was reuniting with Sister Miriam Caritas (Beth McMurray) from the Sisters of Life. Her community’s charism - to protect and enhance the sacredness of every human life - mirrors the heart of the Christ Child Society’s mission. Their witness reminded me that being the light is not something we do alone, but together, through community and shared purpose.

As I reflect on the weekend, I see how every moment, the Opportunity Shop, the Basilica, the monuments, Dr. Carson’s words, and the people I encountered were all threads in a single tapestry. They reminded me that to Be the Light means transforming the ordinary into hope, saying yes to God’s call, aspiring higher, honoring sacrifice, investing in literacy, cherishing life, and building community.

I left Washington, D.C., and the Christ Child Society Conference in Bethesda with a renewed sense of purpose. Just as Mary carried the light of Christ into the world, I want to say “yes” in my own ways to serve, to love, to build, and to shine with His light. In a world and a nation that so desperately need healing and hope, the call to Be the Light feels more urgent and more beautiful than ever.

The whole group that attended the National Christ Child Society Conference in front of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC.

Christ Child Society of the Quad Cities Members: Mary Anne Dockery-Jackson, President (Center), Barb Singleton, Layett Coordinator (Right), and myself, Website and Social Media Coordinator.

A window dedicated to Mary Virginia Merrick,
Foundress of the Christ Child Society

The Washington Monument

The Lincoln Memorial

Dr. Ben Carson (pictured with his wife, Candy) gave a keynote talk on his life and the importance of literacy at an early age. His mother, who had less than a third-grade education, ensured that her sons received a good education and were successful in life.

An unexpected reunion with Sister Miriam Caritas of the Sisters of Life. We haven't seen each other in more than 20 years. It was a joy and a blessing to catch up with her.