Remember Terri

Today is the 1 year anniversary of the starvation death of Terri Schindler-Schiavo. The website Priests for Life have offered the following prayer.

Lord God, I thank you today for the gift of my life,
And for the lives of all my brothers and sisters.
I know that life is always a good,
and that it never loses its value
when it is beset by weakness or injury.
Lord, thank you for the life of Terri.
Even in her suffering and death
She revealed Your glory
and truth that life is always sacred.
As I remember Terri, I also commit myself
to be active in the pro-life movement,
And never to stop defending life
Until all my brothers and sisters are protected,
And our nation once again becomes
A nation with liberty and justice
Not just for some, but for all,
Through Christ our Lord. Amen!

Resist the culture of death wherever you find it.

Remember Terri

Today is the 1 year anniversary of the starvation death of Terri Schindler-Schiavo. The website Priests for Life have offered the following prayer.

Lord God, I thank you today for the gift of my life,
And for the lives of all my brothers and sisters.
I know that life is always a good,
and that it never loses its value
when it is beset by weakness or injury.
Lord, thank you for the life of Terri.
Even in her suffering and death
She revealed Your glory
and truth that life is always sacred.
As I remember Terri, I also commit myself
to be active in the pro-life movement,
And never to stop defending life
Until all my brothers and sisters are protected,
And our nation once again becomes
A nation with liberty and justice
Not just for some, but for all,
Through Christ our Lord. Amen!

Resist the culture of death wherever you find it.

Fatima Prayer

O My Jesus,
forgive us our sins,
save us from the fires of hell,
and lead all souls to Heaven,
especially those most in need
of Thy Mercy.

When I first learned this prayer (in adulthood, by the way) I found it to be so very comforting. When we pray for "those most in need of (God's) Mercy", what is it we are praying for? We are praying for God to send to Heaven, those who we find the most irksome. Those who we stay up at night worrying about. Those who seem to drive us again and again to sin. Those whose names we can hardly stand to speak.

What a relief that is! Instead of harboring all kinds of hatred and resentment towards those people, or allowing our lives to be ground to a halt with unproductive anger or worry over them, we offer their souls up to the Lord. How spiritually freeing that is!

This prayer, by the way, is the Fatima prayer, said after each decade of the rosary. This prayer was given to the children of Fatima by Our Lady during her third apparition there.

Fatima Prayer

O My Jesus,
forgive us our sins,
save us from the fires of hell,
and lead all souls to Heaven,
especially those most in need
of Thy Mercy.

When I first learned this prayer (in adulthood, by the way) I found it to be so very comforting. When we pray for "those most in need of (God's) Mercy", what is it we are praying for? We are praying for God to send to Heaven, those who we find the most irksome. Those who we stay up at night worrying about. Those who seem to drive us again and again to sin. Those whose names we can hardly stand to speak.

What a relief that is! Instead of harboring all kinds of hatred and resentment towards those people, or allowing our lives to be ground to a halt with unproductive anger or worry over them, we offer their souls up to the Lord. How spiritually freeing that is!

This prayer, by the way, is the Fatima prayer, said after each decade of the rosary. This prayer was given to the children of Fatima by Our Lady during her third apparition there.

owls call
as the sun sets
i drink tea

My husband is so cool!

I love my husband. He's such an interesting person. He comes home the other night and tells me that one of the main thoroughfares going to our house was closed, so he opened the sunroof and navigated by the STARS!! If I was paid a million dollars or held up at gunpoint, I don't think I could find my way *anywhere* by the stars!!

My husband is so cool!

I love my husband. He's such an interesting person. He comes home the other night and tells me that one of the main thoroughfares going to our house was closed, so he opened the sunroof and navigated by the STARS!! If I was paid a million dollars or held up at gunpoint, I don't think I could find my way *anywhere* by the stars!!

Barking at the snake

I had to go outside a little while ago and see what the dog was barking at. She was barking at a bush outside our garage. I noticed a small garter snake slithering around the perimeter of the bush. The dog didn't know quite what to make of the reptile, so I brought her (the dog) inside for a bit of a mental health break to let the snake do whatever it is that snakes do and go wherever it is that snakes go.

Barking at the snake

I had to go outside a little while ago and see what the dog was barking at. She was barking at a bush outside our garage. I noticed a small garter snake slithering around the perimeter of the bush. The dog didn't know quite what to make of the reptile, so I brought her (the dog) inside for a bit of a mental health break to let the snake do whatever it is that snakes do and go wherever it is that snakes go.

run outside
comfort the dog
who saw a snake

A Christian's Place in Nature

Verbum Ipsum has a post about the theological basis for the humane treatment of animals. He says that nature exists only as part of God's plan--to further His Kingdom. He says that the animal-human kingdom in Genesis is essentially a peaceable one in which mankind's role mirrors that of the Creator as beneficent caretaker of animals. There are those Christians, he says, that even go so far as vegetarianism as part of this ideal, although the blog author says the most important reaction to this theology is the humane treatment of animals while they are alive.

I think this Christian view of the man-animal relationship is one that is very needed in our world today. The Conservative Blog for Peace calls this article's point of view "crunchy granola conservatism". It *does* exist! One doesn't have to be a political liberal or non-Christian to care about animals. Look at the beautiful example we Catholics have in St. Francis of Assisi who called the animals and natural elements his brothers and sisters.

A Christian's Place in Nature

Verbum Ipsum has a post about the theological basis for the humane treatment of animals. He says that nature exists only as part of God's plan--to further His Kingdom. He says that the animal-human kingdom in Genesis is essentially a peaceable one in which mankind's role mirrors that of the Creator as beneficent caretaker of animals. There are those Christians, he says, that even go so far as vegetarianism as part of this ideal, although the blog author says the most important reaction to this theology is the humane treatment of animals while they are alive.

I think this Christian view of the man-animal relationship is one that is very needed in our world today. The Conservative Blog for Peace calls this article's point of view "crunchy granola conservatism". It *does* exist! One doesn't have to be a political liberal or non-Christian to care about animals. Look at the beautiful example we Catholics have in St. Francis of Assisi who called the animals and natural elements his brothers and sisters.

Angelus initiative

Mickael over at IPraytheAngelus.blogspot.com has an
Angelus Initiative. If you are a blogger and
would like to be part of this initiative, go
to his website and get the code to put the
button on your blog.

Mickael has the Angelus on the blog in both
English and Latin.

For the same site in French, go to
http://jeprielangelus.blogspot.com .

Angelus initiative

Mickael over at IPraytheAngelus.blogspot.com has an
Angelus Initiative. If you are a blogger and
would like to be part of this initiative, go
to his website and get the code to put the
button on your blog.

Mickael has the Angelus on the blog in both
English and Latin.

For the same site in French, go to
http://jeprielangelus.blogspot.com .

Another word of wisdom from A Penitent Blogger

A Penitent Blogger reminds us today that although
none of us were blessed with perfect parents,
we all have a Heavenly Father who loves us.

__________________________________________________
"Can a mother forget her infant,
be without tenderness for the child of her womb?

Even should she forget,
I will never forget you."
~Isaiah 49:8-15
__________________________________________________

Another word of wisdom from A Penitent Blogger

A Penitent Blogger reminds us today that although
none of us were blessed with perfect parents,
we all have a Heavenly Father who loves us.

__________________________________________________
"Can a mother forget her infant,
be without tenderness for the child of her womb?

Even should she forget,
I will never forget you."
~Isaiah 49:8-15
__________________________________________________

lonely dove
mournfully cries--
longing for a mate.

A bit of wisdom

I found this quote on a tea blog and thought it pretty much summed up life!

The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.

~ Okakura Kokuzo

A bit of wisdom

I found this quote on a tea blog and thought it pretty much summed up life!

The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.

~ Okakura Kokuzo

Sixty-one year old becomes a nun

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has a very encouraging story about a 61 year old divorced mother and grandmother who has joined St. Emma Monastery in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. She made her solemn profession of love, obedience and chastity and will live a monastic life with the Benedictine nuns that have come to the monastery from various life paths. Some joined right out of high school, some have been widowed and others have gone through divorce and annulment. There is a nun who is a convert from Methodism, and one who grew up as a fourth-generation Jehovah's Witness.

The sisters' day begins when they wake at 4:45 for vigils that begin at 5:30. Compline, or evening prayers begin at 7:30 in the evening. In between, the sisters do chores, keep appointments and run their home, working together much like a family would.

I encourage you to go to the Tribune-Review link and read the article there. It is chock full of wonderful monastic details of the sisters' everyday life.

Hats off to A Penitent Blogger for alerting me to the article.

Sixty-one year old becomes a nun

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has a very encouraging story about a 61 year old divorced mother and grandmother who has joined St. Emma Monastery in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. She made her solemn profession of love, obedience and chastity and will live a monastic life with the Benedictine nuns that have come to the monastery from various life paths. Some joined right out of high school, some have been widowed and others have gone through divorce and annulment. There is a nun who is a convert from Methodism, and one who grew up as a fourth-generation Jehovah's Witness.

The sisters' day begins when they wake at 4:45 for vigils that begin at 5:30. Compline, or evening prayers begin at 7:30 in the evening. In between, the sisters do chores, keep appointments and run their home, working together much like a family would.

I encourage you to go to the Tribune-Review link and read the article there. It is chock full of wonderful monastic details of the sisters' everyday life.

Hats off to A Penitent Blogger for alerting me to the article.

TMI haiku

I'm a dog
therefore I must
roll in poo

Which Star Trek Personality Are You?

Your results:
You are Deanna Troi. You are a caring and loving individual.
You understand people's emotions and
you are able to comfort and counsel them.


Click here to take the Star Trek Personality Quiz


Ok, I'll buy the comfort and counsel bit, but there is no way I'd ever wear one of those Star Trek uniforms. And, how come there always has to be one drop-dead gorgeous woman who either wears micro-mini skirts or low cut tops? Where's that in Star Trek regulations?!

Which Star Trek Personality Are You?

Your results:
You are Deanna Troi. You are a caring and loving individual.
You understand people's emotions and
you are able to comfort and counsel them.


Click here to take the Star Trek Personality Quiz


Ok, I'll buy the comfort and counsel bit, but there is no way I'd ever wear one of those Star Trek uniforms. And, how come there always has to be one drop-dead gorgeous woman who either wears micro-mini skirts or low cut tops? Where's that in Star Trek regulations?!

Your Birth Month

Your Birth Month is May

Unique and creative, you seek your own path in life. You love change and are able to adapt to any situation. Your soul reflects: Sweetness, joy, and a complete life. Your gemstone: Emerald Your flower: Lily of the Valley Your colors: Yellow, red, and green

What Does Your Birth Month Mean?

Your Birth Month

Your Birth Month is May

Unique and creative, you seek your own path in life. You love change and are able to adapt to any situation. Your soul reflects: Sweetness, joy, and a complete life. Your gemstone: Emerald Your flower: Lily of the Valley Your colors: Yellow, red, and green

What Does Your Birth Month Mean?

The Feast of the Annunciation

In honor of today's Feast of the Annunciation, I wanted to post The Angelus Prayer.

The Angelus
The Angelus is traditionally recited morning (6:00 a.m.), noon and evening (6:00 p.m.) throughout the year except during the Easter Season when the Regina Coeli is recited instead.

V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.
R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.
All: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the Fruit
of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners,
now, and at the hour of our death, Amen.

V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.
R. Be it done unto me according to thy word.
Hail Mary, etc.

V. And the Word was made Flesh.
R. And dwelt among us.
Hail Mary, etc.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

LET US PRAY

Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.

The painting above is The Angelus by Jean-Francois Millet. Being vaguely aware of this painting but not knowing the title, for years I never knew it depicted something as Catholic as a couple stopping their work to recite the Angelus Prayer. The bells of the local church would alert the villagers that it was time for prayer.

If you want to follow the scriptural directive to "pray always" (1 Thes. 5,17) this is one way to add prayer to your day.

The Feast of the Annunciation

In honor of today's Feast of the Annunciation, I wanted to post The Angelus Prayer.

The Angelus
The Angelus is traditionally recited morning (6:00 a.m.), noon and evening (6:00 p.m.) throughout the year except during the Easter Season when the Regina Coeli is recited instead.

V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.
R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.
All: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the Fruit
of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners,
now, and at the hour of our death, Amen.

V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.
R. Be it done unto me according to thy word.
Hail Mary, etc.

V. And the Word was made Flesh.
R. And dwelt among us.
Hail Mary, etc.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

LET US PRAY

Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ Our Lord. Amen.

The painting above is The Angelus by Jean-Francois Millet. Being vaguely aware of this painting but not knowing the title, for years I never knew it depicted something as Catholic as a couple stopping their work to recite the Angelus Prayer. The bells of the local church would alert the villagers that it was time for prayer.

If you want to follow the scriptural directive to "pray always" (1 Thes. 5,17) this is one way to add prayer to your day.

A couple of Lenten Recipes

MOM'S EASY TUNA CASSEROLE
1 Pkg. Potato Chips -- crumble 1/2 in bottom of casserole
1 Lg. Can Tuna -- Flake tuna and spread over chips
1 can peas -- Drain and sprinkle over tuna
1 Can Mushroom Soup -- Spread, undiluted, over top.
Sprinkle the rest of crumbled potato chips & paprika over the top.

Variations: Put noodles or rice on the bottom first.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 Minutes.

FROM THE LIFE IS GREAT COLLECTION:

SPAGHETTI SALAD

1 box thin spaghetti
1 cucumber
1 onion
1 green pepper
1 bottle of Salad Supreme spice
1 bottle of Zesty Italian dressing

OPTIONAL INGREDIENTS
chopped mushrooms
black olives
green olives
cheese

use your imagination!

Mix above ingredients and marinate; refrigerate

Before serving, add chopped tomatoes

This recipe has become a favorite of mine. I like to bring it to gatherings. It is always popular.


SALMON CAKES

*Note: This recipe has been handed down and has no specific amounts. Just mix the ingredients until the texture is right for you and the mixture stays together. Fry in hot oil.

INGREDIENTS

1 Can salmon
onions, chopped
Bread crumbs
mayonnaise

SALMON AND SPINACH

Serving sizes of fresh frozen salmon
Fresh spinach
Italian dressing

Cook salmon according to package directions. (can be done in microwave)
Place cooked salmon on top of fresh spinach in a bowl.
cover with Italian dressing

Easy, tasty, and nutritious!

Check out Recta Ratio's great Lenten recipes too!

Anyone living near Baltimore should stop by Saint Benedict's and order some delicious codfish cakes (famous coddies).

From the bulletin:

Baltimore’s Best Coddies are here every Wednesday and Friday, during Lent, and every day of Holy Week. Call one day ahead and place your order. Cost is $11.00 for a box of 16 with crackers. Call Shirley, Bernadette, or Thelma at 410-947-4988 to place your order.

A couple of Lenten Recipes

MOM'S EASY TUNA CASSEROLE
1 Pkg. Potato Chips -- crumble 1/2 in bottom of casserole
1 Lg. Can Tuna -- Flake tuna and spread over chips
1 can peas -- Drain and sprinkle over tuna
1 Can Mushroom Soup -- Spread, undiluted, over top.
Sprinkle the rest of crumbled potato chips & paprika over the top.

Variations: Put noodles or rice on the bottom first.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 Minutes.

FROM THE LIFE IS GREAT COLLECTION:

SPAGHETTI SALAD

1 box thin spaghetti
1 cucumber
1 onion
1 green pepper
1 bottle of Salad Supreme spice
1 bottle of Zesty Italian dressing

OPTIONAL INGREDIENTS
chopped mushrooms
black olives
green olives
cheese

use your imagination!

Mix above ingredients and marinate; refrigerate

Before serving, add chopped tomatoes

This recipe has become a favorite of mine. I like to bring it to gatherings. It is always popular.


SALMON CAKES

*Note: This recipe has been handed down and has no specific amounts. Just mix the ingredients until the texture is right for you and the mixture stays together. Fry in hot oil.

INGREDIENTS

1 Can salmon
onions, chopped
Bread crumbs
mayonnaise

SALMON AND SPINACH

Serving sizes of fresh frozen salmon
Fresh spinach
Italian dressing

Cook salmon according to package directions. (can be done in microwave)
Place cooked salmon on top of fresh spinach in a bowl.
cover with Italian dressing

Easy, tasty, and nutritious!

Check out Recta Ratio's great Lenten recipes too!

Anyone living near Baltimore should stop by Saint Benedict's and order some delicious codfish cakes (famous coddies).

From the bulletin:

Baltimore’s Best Coddies are here every Wednesday and Friday, during Lent, and every day of Holy Week. Call one day ahead and place your order. Cost is $11.00 for a box of 16 with crackers. Call Shirley, Bernadette, or Thelma at 410-947-4988 to place your order.

Animal Convention

Today I discovered, upon entering the bathroom, that I had interrupted a local animal convention. The cats (both of them) were already in the bathroom and the dog decided she had to come in because I was there. Its like having 3 toddlers who have to follow you around. Ok, its like having *1* toddler who follows you around and 2 teenagers who refuse to leave just because *you* need the bathroom. Thankfully, they are only cats, and I didn't have to change my plans!

Animal Convention

Today I discovered, upon entering the bathroom, that I had interrupted a local animal convention. The cats (both of them) were already in the bathroom and the dog decided she had to come in because I was there. Its like having 3 toddlers who have to follow you around. Ok, its like having *1* toddler who follows you around and 2 teenagers who refuse to leave just because *you* need the bathroom. Thankfully, they are only cats, and I didn't have to change my plans!

clear and cold,
water bubbles over
the white rocks

A Little Flower Garden Blog

I ran across an encouraging blog today thanks to a link on Recta Ratio. Its called A Little Flower Garden named after St.Thérèse of Lisieux. It is done by a young woman named Betsy who is entering the convent this summer.

It is so full of the love and joy of her everyday life and is well worth the read. Very uplifting! The future of the Church is in good hands!!

A Little Flower Garden Blog

I ran across an encouraging blog today thanks to a link on Recta Ratio. Its called A Little Flower Garden named after St.Thérèse of Lisieux. It is done by a young woman named Betsy who is entering the convent this summer.

It is so full of the love and joy of her everyday life and is well worth the read. Very uplifting! The future of the Church is in good hands!!

cold dark clouds
bright warm sun
bi-polar March

purple crocus
grows in onion grass
spring is here

two by two the geese
float calmly by and
follow us unnoticed

Drink tea and pray!

I have a beautiful calendar called The Collectible Teapot. Each month has a picture of a teapot, some info about it, and other tea trivia, including a quote.

I thought this month's quote was especially fascinating.

The hot water is to remain upon it [the tea] no longer than whiles you can say the Miserere Psalm very liesurely.
~Sir Kenelm Digby 1669

The Miserere Psalm is Psalm 51 and is especially appropriate to the Lenten season.

Miserere mei Deus secundum magnam misericordiam tuam et secundum multitudinem miserationum tuarum dele iniquitatem meam
Amplius lava me ab iniquitate mea et a peccato meo munda me
Quoniam iniquitatem meam ego cognosco et peccatum meum contra me est semper
Tibi soli peccavi et malum coram te feci ut iustificeris in sermonibus tuis et vincas cum iudicaris
Ecce enim in iniquitatibus conceptus sum et in peccatis concepit me mater mea
Ecce enim veritatem dilexisti incerta et occulta sapientiae tuae manifestasti mihi
Asparges me hysopo et mundabor lavabis me et super nivem dealbabor
Auditui meo dabis gaudium et laetitiam exultabunt ossa humiliata
Averte faciem tuam a peccatis meis et omnes iniquitates meas dele
Cor mundum crea in me Deus et spiritum rectum innova in visceribus meis
Ne proicias me a facie tua et spiritum sanctum tuum ne auferas a me
Redde mihi laetitiam salutaris tui et spiritu principali confirma me
Docebo iniquos vias tuas et impii ad te convertentur
Libera me de sanguinibus Deus Deus salutis meae exultabit lingua mea iustitiam tuam
Domine labia mea aperies et os meum adnuntiabit laudem tuam
Quoniam si voluisses sacrificium dedissem utique holocaustis non delectaberis
Sacrificium Deo spiritus contribulatus cor contritum et humiliatum Deus non spernet
Benigne fac Domine in bona voluntate tua Sion et aedificentur muri Hierusalem
Tunc acceptabis sacrificium iustitiae oblationes et holocausta tunc inponent super altare tuum vitulos

Have mercy on me God in your kindness
in your compassion blot out my offense
Oh, wash me through and through from my guilt
and cleanse me of my sin.

For my sin is always before me
Against You, You alone have I sinned
What is evil in your sight, I have done.
You are just in your sentence, blameless when you condemn.
True, I was born guilty, a sinner, even as my mother conceived me.
Still, you insist on sincerity of heart; in my inmost being teach me wisdom.
Cleanse me with hyssop, that I may be pure; wash me, make me whiter than snow.
Let me hear sounds of joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
Turn away your face from my sins; blot out all my guilt.

Create in me a clean heart, Oh God.
A steadfast spirit renew within me.
Drive me not away from Your presence,
nor take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore my joy in your salvation; sustain in me a willing spirit.
I will teach the wicked your ways, that sinners may return to you.
Rescue me from death, God, my saving God, that my tongue may praise your healing power.
Lord, open my lips; my mouth will proclaim your praise.
For you do not desire sacrifice; a burnt offering you would not accept.
My sacrifice, God, is a broken spirit; God, do not spurn a broken, humbled heart.
Make Zion prosper in your good pleasure; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will be pleased with proper sacrifice, burnt offerings and holocausts; then bullocks will be offered on your altar.

Drink tea and pray!

I have a beautiful calendar called The Collectible Teapot. Each month has a picture of a teapot, some info about it, and other tea trivia, including a quote.

I thought this month's quote was especially fascinating.

The hot water is to remain upon it [the tea] no longer than whiles you can say the Miserere Psalm very liesurely.
~Sir Kenelm Digby 1669

The Miserere Psalm is Psalm 51 and is especially appropriate to the Lenten season.

Miserere mei Deus secundum magnam misericordiam tuam et secundum multitudinem miserationum tuarum dele iniquitatem meam
Amplius lava me ab iniquitate mea et a peccato meo munda me
Quoniam iniquitatem meam ego cognosco et peccatum meum contra me est semper
Tibi soli peccavi et malum coram te feci ut iustificeris in sermonibus tuis et vincas cum iudicaris
Ecce enim in iniquitatibus conceptus sum et in peccatis concepit me mater mea
Ecce enim veritatem dilexisti incerta et occulta sapientiae tuae manifestasti mihi
Asparges me hysopo et mundabor lavabis me et super nivem dealbabor
Auditui meo dabis gaudium et laetitiam exultabunt ossa humiliata
Averte faciem tuam a peccatis meis et omnes iniquitates meas dele
Cor mundum crea in me Deus et spiritum rectum innova in visceribus meis
Ne proicias me a facie tua et spiritum sanctum tuum ne auferas a me
Redde mihi laetitiam salutaris tui et spiritu principali confirma me
Docebo iniquos vias tuas et impii ad te convertentur
Libera me de sanguinibus Deus Deus salutis meae exultabit lingua mea iustitiam tuam
Domine labia mea aperies et os meum adnuntiabit laudem tuam
Quoniam si voluisses sacrificium dedissem utique holocaustis non delectaberis
Sacrificium Deo spiritus contribulatus cor contritum et humiliatum Deus non spernet
Benigne fac Domine in bona voluntate tua Sion et aedificentur muri Hierusalem
Tunc acceptabis sacrificium iustitiae oblationes et holocausta tunc inponent super altare tuum vitulos

Have mercy on me God in your kindness
in your compassion blot out my offense
Oh, wash me through and through from my guilt
and cleanse me of my sin.

For my sin is always before me
Against You, You alone have I sinned
What is evil in your sight, I have done.
You are just in your sentence, blameless when you condemn.
True, I was born guilty, a sinner, even as my mother conceived me.
Still, you insist on sincerity of heart; in my inmost being teach me wisdom.
Cleanse me with hyssop, that I may be pure; wash me, make me whiter than snow.
Let me hear sounds of joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
Turn away your face from my sins; blot out all my guilt.

Create in me a clean heart, Oh God.
A steadfast spirit renew within me.
Drive me not away from Your presence,
nor take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore my joy in your salvation; sustain in me a willing spirit.
I will teach the wicked your ways, that sinners may return to you.
Rescue me from death, God, my saving God, that my tongue may praise your healing power.
Lord, open my lips; my mouth will proclaim your praise.
For you do not desire sacrifice; a burnt offering you would not accept.
My sacrifice, God, is a broken spirit; God, do not spurn a broken, humbled heart.
Make Zion prosper in your good pleasure; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will be pleased with proper sacrifice, burnt offerings and holocausts; then bullocks will be offered on your altar.

Who was supposed to die?

The Wall Street Journal reports that (maternal) deaths have occurred using the prescribed drug Mifeprex to terminate early pregnancies. It seems that some Planned Parenthood facilities have been administering the drug vaginally instead of orally as recommended.

I guess we *don't* need abortion to be illegal to have deaths from botched procedures done by incompetent providers. Death by incompetence would surely have shut down any other type of facility, but, unfortunately, not Planned Non-parenthood. Where are the lawyers ready to sue PP within an inch of its life (or is it death...)? Where is the public outcry? Have we become so insensitive to the abortion death facility that is Planned Barrenhood, that deaths there don't matter anymore? Perhaps a few maternal deaths will wake up this country to what happens there every day--women are pressured into having abortions and killing the life that is already within them while many others have to go overseas to adopt the children they so desperately want.

[Thanks so much to the Curt Jester and his readers for this story.]

Who was supposed to die?

The Wall Street Journal reports that (maternal) deaths have occurred using the prescribed drug Mifeprex to terminate early pregnancies. It seems that some Planned Parenthood facilities have been administering the drug vaginally instead of orally as recommended.

I guess we *don't* need abortion to be illegal to have deaths from botched procedures done by incompetent providers. Death by incompetence would surely have shut down any other type of facility, but, unfortunately, not Planned Non-parenthood. Where are the lawyers ready to sue PP within an inch of its life (or is it death...)? Where is the public outcry? Have we become so insensitive to the abortion death facility that is Planned Barrenhood, that deaths there don't matter anymore? Perhaps a few maternal deaths will wake up this country to what happens there every day--women are pressured into having abortions and killing the life that is already within them while many others have to go overseas to adopt the children they so desperately want.

[Thanks so much to the Curt Jester and his readers for this story.]

Come back!
Stay away
from the guard geese

roots in the river
become a fierce monster
in a dog's brain

About those "Top 10 Catholic Hymns"

A recent poll by the National Association of Pastoral Musicians names these top 10 songs that "made a difference" in the lives of their members. The results are sad but unsurprising, given the fact that these are the folks who bring you "music impossible to sing to" every week at Mass.

(1) On Eagle's Wings
(2) Here I Am, Lord
(3) Be Not Afraid
(4) You Are Mine
(5) How Great Thou Art
(6) Holy God, We Praise Thy Name
(7) Amazing Grace
(8) All Are Welcome
(9) Prayer of St. Francis
(10) Ave Maria

Ok, I like 5, 6, 7 and 10, so its not all bad. But the fact that the others are in there at all, points to the sad state of liturgical music in the Catholic Church today. This music is best sung by a solo artists accompanying him/herself on guitar--not the most conducive to congregational singing.

On the other hand, Adoremus polled its readers and here's the list they came up with:

Adoremus ReadersÂ’ Top 10

1. Holy God We Praise Thy Name (AH* 461)
2. Ave Verum Corpus (chant AH 514)
3. Immaculate Mary (AH 532)
4. Come Holy Ghost (AH 443)
5. Hail Holy Queen, Enthroned Above (AH 530)
6. Jesus Christ Is Risen Today (AH 410)
7. Panis Angelicus (AH 523)
8. Salve Regina (AH 547)
9. Soul of My Savior (AH 522)
10. To Jesus Christ Our Sovereign King (AH 480)

Now *these* are the top 10 Catholic hymns, ladies and gentlemen! These are songs that mean something! These are classics that have stood the test of time and are about something that is above and beyond ourselves. I wonder how many Catholics today even know most of these songs...

About those "Top 10 Catholic Hymns"

A recent poll by the National Association of Pastoral Musicians names these top 10 songs that "made a difference" in the lives of their members. The results are sad but unsurprising, given the fact that these are the folks who bring you "music impossible to sing to" every week at Mass.

(1) On Eagle's Wings
(2) Here I Am, Lord
(3) Be Not Afraid
(4) You Are Mine
(5) How Great Thou Art
(6) Holy God, We Praise Thy Name
(7) Amazing Grace
(8) All Are Welcome
(9) Prayer of St. Francis
(10) Ave Maria

Ok, I like 5, 6, 7 and 10, so its not all bad. But the fact that the others are in there at all, points to the sad state of liturgical music in the Catholic Church today. This music is best sung by a solo artists accompanying him/herself on guitar--not the most conducive to congregational singing.

On the other hand, Adoremus polled its readers and here's the list they came up with:

Adoremus ReadersÂ’ Top 10

1. Holy God We Praise Thy Name (AH* 461)
2. Ave Verum Corpus (chant AH 514)
3. Immaculate Mary (AH 532)
4. Come Holy Ghost (AH 443)
5. Hail Holy Queen, Enthroned Above (AH 530)
6. Jesus Christ Is Risen Today (AH 410)
7. Panis Angelicus (AH 523)
8. Salve Regina (AH 547)
9. Soul of My Savior (AH 522)
10. To Jesus Christ Our Sovereign King (AH 480)

Now *these* are the top 10 Catholic hymns, ladies and gentlemen! These are songs that mean something! These are classics that have stood the test of time and are about something that is above and beyond ourselves. I wonder how many Catholics today even know most of these songs...

Vatican responds to 2 U.S. liturgical controversies

Adoremus has a pertinent page on the Vatican's response to many inquiries from the U.S. on 2 issues. The first is the practice of removing the holy water from the holy water fonts during the entire season of Lent. The Vatican states that

removing of Holy Water from the fonts during the season of Lent is not permitted. The practice of the Church has been to empty the Holy Water fonts on the days of the Sacred Triduum in preparation of the blessing of the water at the Easter Vigil, and it corresponds to those days on which the Eucharist is not celebrated (i.e., Good Friday and Holy Saturday).

The other issue is the continuing controversy over whether it is licit in the U.S. to kneel to receive Holy Communion. There are some priests who have refused to distribute Holy Communion to those who kneel to receive. Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments says the following about that issue:

"...while this Congregation gave the recognitio to the norm desired by the Bishops' Conference of your country that people stand for Holy Communion, this was done on the condition that communicants who choose to kneel are not to be denied Holy Communion on these grounds. Indeed, the faithful should not be imposed upon nor accused of disobedience and of acting illicitly when they kneel to receive Holy Communion".

Vatican responds to 2 U.S. liturgical controversies

Adoremus has a pertinent page on the Vatican's response to many inquiries from the U.S. on 2 issues. The first is the practice of removing the holy water from the holy water fonts during the entire season of Lent. The Vatican states that

removing of Holy Water from the fonts during the season of Lent is not permitted. The practice of the Church has been to empty the Holy Water fonts on the days of the Sacred Triduum in preparation of the blessing of the water at the Easter Vigil, and it corresponds to those days on which the Eucharist is not celebrated (i.e., Good Friday and Holy Saturday).

The other issue is the continuing controversy over whether it is licit in the U.S. to kneel to receive Holy Communion. There are some priests who have refused to distribute Holy Communion to those who kneel to receive. Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments says the following about that issue:

"...while this Congregation gave the recognitio to the norm desired by the Bishops' Conference of your country that people stand for Holy Communion, this was done on the condition that communicants who choose to kneel are not to be denied Holy Communion on these grounds. Indeed, the faithful should not be imposed upon nor accused of disobedience and of acting illicitly when they kneel to receive Holy Communion".

New Monthly Magazine on JPII Beatification

Catholic News Agency reports that the Vicariate of Rome will issue a monthly magazine called Totus Tuus chronicling the beatification process for the late Pope John Paul II. It will be published in Italian, Spanish, English and Polish at first, and later in French, Russian and Chinese. The first edition is free and can be requested through the Vicariate's website:

www.vicariatusurbis.org/beatificazione

The website has a forum with folders for intentions, stories about meeting the late Holy Father, favors and graces received and a prayer chain. Each of these folders has a subfolder in Italian, English, French, Polish, Spanish and Portuguese.

Also on the site is a "prayer for asking graces through the intercession of the servant of God, the Pope, John Paul II" in 23 different languages!

PRAYER FOR ASKING GRACES THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF
THE SERVANT OF GOD THE POPE JOHN PAUL II

O Blessed Trinity
We thank You for having graced the Church
with Pope John Paul II
and for allowing the tenderness of your Fatherly care,
the glory of the cross of Christ,
and the splendor of the Holy Spirit,
to shine through him.
Trusting fully in Your infinite mercy
and in the maternal intercession of Mary,
he has given us a living image of Jesus the Good Shepherd,
and has shown us that holiness
is the necessary measure of ordinary Christian life
and is the way of achieving eternal communion with you.
Grant us, by his intercession, and according to Your will,
the graces we implore,
hoping that he will soon be numbered
among your saints.
Amen.


PRIÈRE POUR OBTENIR DES GRÂCES PAR L’INTERCESSION
DU SERVITEUR DE DIEU LE PAPE JEAN-PAUL II
O Sainte Trinité,
Nous Te rendons grâce pour avoir fait don à Ton Eglise
du Pape Jean-Paul II
et magnifié en lui la tendresse de Ta paternité,
la gloire de la croix du Christ
et la splendeur de l’Esprit d’Amour.
Par son abandon sans condition à Ta miséricorde infinie
et à l’intercession maternelle de Marie,
il nous a donné une image vivante de Jésus Bon Pasteur
et nous a indiqué la sainteté,
dimension sublime de la vie chrétienne ordinaire,
voie unique pour rejoindre la communion éternelle avec Toi.
Par son intercession, accorde-nous, selon Ta volonté,
la grâce que nous implorons,
animés du vif espoir qu’il soit élevé au plus tôt
aux honneurs des autels.
Amen.

صلاة لأجل طلب بركة وصلاة
عبد الله يوحنا بولص الثاني
ايها الثالوث الأقدس
نشكرك لأنك اعطيت الى الكنيسه
الحبر الأعظم يوحنا بولص الثاني
وقد اظهرت به عظمتك
والعاطفه الأبويه
ومجد صليب ابنك يسوع المسيح
وثمرة الروح القدس والحب الألهي
انه قد آمن برحمتك الغزيره
وبشفاعة والدة الاله مريم العذراء
اعطيتنا صورة الراعي الصالح
فأرشدنا الى طريق القداسه
كمقياس حياه مسيحيه عامه
وطريق توصلنا الى حياه مشتركه معك الى الأبد
نطلب منك بشفاعة يوحنا بولص الثاني
الحصول على النعمه الأتيه فلتكن حسب مشيئتك
نأمل بأن يكون بأسرع وقت ممكن
بعداد قديسيك
أمين

New Monthly Magazine on JPII Beatification

Catholic News Agency reports that the Vicariate of Rome will issue a monthly magazine called Totus Tuus chronicling the beatification process for the late Pope John Paul II. It will be published in Italian, Spanish, English and Polish at first, and later in French, Russian and Chinese. The first edition is free and can be requested through the Vicariate's website:

www.vicariatusurbis.org/beatificazione

The website has a forum with folders for intentions, stories about meeting the late Holy Father, favors and graces received and a prayer chain. Each of these folders has a subfolder in Italian, English, French, Polish, Spanish and Portuguese.

Also on the site is a "prayer for asking graces through the intercession of the servant of God, the Pope, John Paul II" in 23 different languages!

PRAYER FOR ASKING GRACES THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF
THE SERVANT OF GOD THE POPE JOHN PAUL II

O Blessed Trinity
We thank You for having graced the Church
with Pope John Paul II
and for allowing the tenderness of your Fatherly care,
the glory of the cross of Christ,
and the splendor of the Holy Spirit,
to shine through him.
Trusting fully in Your infinite mercy
and in the maternal intercession of Mary,
he has given us a living image of Jesus the Good Shepherd,
and has shown us that holiness
is the necessary measure of ordinary Christian life
and is the way of achieving eternal communion with you.
Grant us, by his intercession, and according to Your will,
the graces we implore,
hoping that he will soon be numbered
among your saints.
Amen.


PRIÈRE POUR OBTENIR DES GRÂCES PAR L’INTERCESSION
DU SERVITEUR DE DIEU LE PAPE JEAN-PAUL II
O Sainte Trinité,
Nous Te rendons grâce pour avoir fait don à Ton Eglise
du Pape Jean-Paul II
et magnifié en lui la tendresse de Ta paternité,
la gloire de la croix du Christ
et la splendeur de l’Esprit d’Amour.
Par son abandon sans condition à Ta miséricorde infinie
et à l’intercession maternelle de Marie,
il nous a donné une image vivante de Jésus Bon Pasteur
et nous a indiqué la sainteté,
dimension sublime de la vie chrétienne ordinaire,
voie unique pour rejoindre la communion éternelle avec Toi.
Par son intercession, accorde-nous, selon Ta volonté,
la grâce que nous implorons,
animés du vif espoir qu’il soit élevé au plus tôt
aux honneurs des autels.
Amen.

صلاة لأجل طلب بركة وصلاة
عبد الله يوحنا بولص الثاني
ايها الثالوث الأقدس
نشكرك لأنك اعطيت الى الكنيسه
الحبر الأعظم يوحنا بولص الثاني
وقد اظهرت به عظمتك
والعاطفه الأبويه
ومجد صليب ابنك يسوع المسيح
وثمرة الروح القدس والحب الألهي
انه قد آمن برحمتك الغزيره
وبشفاعة والدة الاله مريم العذراء
اعطيتنا صورة الراعي الصالح
فأرشدنا الى طريق القداسه
كمقياس حياه مسيحيه عامه
وطريق توصلنا الى حياه مشتركه معك الى الأبد
نطلب منك بشفاعة يوحنا بولص الثاني
الحصول على النعمه الأتيه فلتكن حسب مشيئتك
نأمل بأن يكون بأسرع وقت ممكن
بعداد قديسيك
أمين

Limerick Ham for my niece

I post this recipe for Limerick Ham in honor of my niece who is currently studying in Limerick, Ireland. The recipe comes from Irish Culture and Customs via a link from Recta Ratio who has many cool Irish links on his blog.

Limerick Ham

Traditionally, Limerick ham was smoked using a special recipe in which juniper berries and branches were added to the fire to produce the distinctive flavour. In the following recipe adapted from a variety of sources, the flavour is captured by scoring the ham and imbedding a mixture of berries and gin into the cuts.

Ingredients:
One fully-cooked cured ham*
1/4 cup juniper berries; if using dried berries, soak until soft
1 1/2 cups French-style mustard
1 cup gin
1 cup brown sugar

Method:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
Score the ham to a depth of 1/2 inch on all sides
Rub the softened berries into the cuts
Blend the gin, brown sugar and mustard and coat the ham with this mixture on all sides
Cover with foil and bake until heated through (about ten minutes per pound)
Remove foil and bake until skin is crisp
From time to time baste with the liquid from bottom of pan.

*Not a salted, country-style ham; while any smoked ham will work with this recipe, Irish cured ham is available. An 8-lb joint can be ordered on line, but please note that this ham requires cooking.

Limerick Ham for my niece

I post this recipe for Limerick Ham in honor of my niece who is currently studying in Limerick, Ireland. The recipe comes from Irish Culture and Customs via a link from Recta Ratio who has many cool Irish links on his blog.

Limerick Ham

Traditionally, Limerick ham was smoked using a special recipe in which juniper berries and branches were added to the fire to produce the distinctive flavour. In the following recipe adapted from a variety of sources, the flavour is captured by scoring the ham and imbedding a mixture of berries and gin into the cuts.

Ingredients:
One fully-cooked cured ham*
1/4 cup juniper berries; if using dried berries, soak until soft
1 1/2 cups French-style mustard
1 cup gin
1 cup brown sugar

Method:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
Score the ham to a depth of 1/2 inch on all sides
Rub the softened berries into the cuts
Blend the gin, brown sugar and mustard and coat the ham with this mixture on all sides
Cover with foil and bake until heated through (about ten minutes per pound)
Remove foil and bake until skin is crisp
From time to time baste with the liquid from bottom of pan.

*Not a salted, country-style ham; while any smoked ham will work with this recipe, Irish cured ham is available. An 8-lb joint can be ordered on line, but please note that this ham requires cooking.

walking Sweetie
food from friendly strangers
spoiled doogy!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick was born Patricius in Roman occupied Great Britain. He was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Ireland as a teen and worked for a local warlord as a shepherd. He escaped 6 years later and returned to Great Britain to study for the priesthood.

Patrick received a vision to return to Ireland to evangelize the land of his captivity. He did this without hesitation, in spite of the fact that no one had taken the Gospel outside of the Roman Empire.

In the five centuries before Saint Patrick, the followers of Christ had not yet taken the Gospel to "all nations", in part, because they didn't believe that the "barbarians" living outside of Roman Civilization, were fully human. Saint Patrick was the first to do this.

Patrick's kidnapping was a blessed turning point in his life. Had he not been kidnapped at that crucial time of adolescence, he would not have grown to become the man he became. As a result of his captivity, he spoke out against the enslavement of human beings centuries before the Church officially condemned it. He also saw women as equal human beings in Christ. Patrick speaks in his Confessions of

...a blessed woman, Irish by birth, noble, extraordinarily beautiful—a true adult—whom I baptized.

Had he not answered God's call to missionary work, Ireland would have remained without God's Word for an untold time in the future.

Saint Patrick was the first recorded human being to speak out against slavery and the first true Christian Missionary. By the time of Patrick's death, or soon after, Ireland stopped the slave trade and never again participated in human sacrifice. Because of Saint Patrick's work, Irish monks went on to help preserve Western Civilization during the Middle Ages.

Thanks to the Saint Anthony Messenger for much of this information.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick was born Patricius in Roman occupied Great Britain. He was kidnapped and sold into slavery in Ireland as a teen and worked for a local warlord as a shepherd. He escaped 6 years later and returned to Great Britain to study for the priesthood.

Patrick received a vision to return to Ireland to evangelize the land of his captivity. He did this without hesitation, in spite of the fact that no one had taken the Gospel outside of the Roman Empire.

In the five centuries before Saint Patrick, the followers of Christ had not yet taken the Gospel to "all nations", in part, because they didn't believe that the "barbarians" living outside of Roman Civilization, were fully human. Saint Patrick was the first to do this.

Patrick's kidnapping was a blessed turning point in his life. Had he not been kidnapped at that crucial time of adolescence, he would not have grown to become the man he became. As a result of his captivity, he spoke out against the enslavement of human beings centuries before the Church officially condemned it. He also saw women as equal human beings in Christ. Patrick speaks in his Confessions of

...a blessed woman, Irish by birth, noble, extraordinarily beautiful—a true adult—whom I baptized.

Had he not answered God's call to missionary work, Ireland would have remained without God's Word for an untold time in the future.

Saint Patrick was the first recorded human being to speak out against slavery and the first true Christian Missionary. By the time of Patrick's death, or soon after, Ireland stopped the slave trade and never again participated in human sacrifice. Because of Saint Patrick's work, Irish monks went on to help preserve Western Civilization during the Middle Ages.

Thanks to the Saint Anthony Messenger for much of this information.

Jesus' Word for Today's Times

It is so easy to become discouraged over recent scandals involving priests that have been splashed on the front pages of countless newspapers. Many of us, also, are frustrated with priests and bishops who see fit to teach publicly, and privately, things that go against ancient Church teaching. It is confusing and has caused many to loose heart and loose faith.

Jesus knew that His Church would be left in the hands of sinful men. He warned even those in his own time about being brought down spiritually by ignorant or corrupt spiritual leaders. He acknowledges that they are doing wrong, and bids us follow their teachings, but not their actions.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 23: 1-12) Jesus says,

The scribes and the Pharisees
have taken their seat on the chair of Moses.
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.

To Jesus, the "chair of Moses", and by extension, the Chair of Peter and the entire magisterium, means something. Those who speak from that chair are to be followed. We are not to be discouraged to the point of giving up when those who occupy that chair don't seem to be doing the job that they were called to do.

One of the surest signs of a false apparition is a spirit of disobedience. Some people involved with unapproved "seers" refuse to follow the dictates of their local Bishop regarding their "messages", but instead, follow the "apparition's" advice as if consulting a Magic 8 ball.

Today's message is a difficult but pertinent one. Don't let human frailty distract you from God and His message.

For, Jesus said,

I came not to call the just, but sinners to repentance.
Luke 5:32

That includes everyone in the Church, no matter what their position might be.

Jesus' Word for Today's Times

It is so easy to become discouraged over recent scandals involving priests that have been splashed on the front pages of countless newspapers. Many of us, also, are frustrated with priests and bishops who see fit to teach publicly, and privately, things that go against ancient Church teaching. It is confusing and has caused many to loose heart and loose faith.

Jesus knew that His Church would be left in the hands of sinful men. He warned even those in his own time about being brought down spiritually by ignorant or corrupt spiritual leaders. He acknowledges that they are doing wrong, and bids us follow their teachings, but not their actions.

In today's Gospel (Matthew 23: 1-12) Jesus says,

The scribes and the Pharisees
have taken their seat on the chair of Moses.
Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you,
but do not follow their example.

To Jesus, the "chair of Moses", and by extension, the Chair of Peter and the entire magisterium, means something. Those who speak from that chair are to be followed. We are not to be discouraged to the point of giving up when those who occupy that chair don't seem to be doing the job that they were called to do.

One of the surest signs of a false apparition is a spirit of disobedience. Some people involved with unapproved "seers" refuse to follow the dictates of their local Bishop regarding their "messages", but instead, follow the "apparition's" advice as if consulting a Magic 8 ball.

Today's message is a difficult but pertinent one. Don't let human frailty distract you from God and His message.

For, Jesus said,

I came not to call the just, but sinners to repentance.
Luke 5:32

That includes everyone in the Church, no matter what their position might be.

breathe in the pine
scent of moist soil
spring perfume

honking geese
fly low across the water
fog lifts

Political Correctness/Government $ Kills Catholic Adoption Agency

Sad, sad news regarding adoptions today. Catholic World News reports that Boston Catholic Charities will no longer be doing adoptions because of the Massachusetts law that requires adoption agencies to allow homosexual couples to adopt.

This is a very troubling development. If religious agencies are not allowed to operate under their own precepts and follow their own religion's guidelines, then where is the free practice of religion in the United States? Would it be equally "wrong" to allow an Orthodox Jewish organization to adopt only to Orthodox Jews? As long as there are state and other adoption agencies that allow others to adopt, where is the problem?

Will Catholic and other religious schools be forced to hire teachers and staff whose beliefs go directly against their church's teaching? Where will people who want to adopt go if their consciences do not allow them to use an organization that goes against their belief system?

The other issue this brings up is one of government funding. It has always been my contention that as soon as a private school accepts government funding, the precedent is set for the government to begin to dictate the curriculum at the school. I was a lone ranger in my son's Catholic elementary school because I didn't want them receiving any money from the state which could jeopardize their Catholic identity. Apparently, there are many organizations and people within those organizations who don't mind the government dictating (to private institutions) what is taught, who gets hired, and how they run their business.

For organizations whose purpose is to support life or serve their religious beliefs, it would be wise to stay far away from governmental funding and government control in order to follow the dictates of conscience and the belief system they serve.

Political Correctness/Government $ Kills Catholic Adoption Agency

Sad, sad news regarding adoptions today. Catholic World News reports that Boston Catholic Charities will no longer be doing adoptions because of the Massachusetts law that requires adoption agencies to allow homosexual couples to adopt.

This is a very troubling development. If religious agencies are not allowed to operate under their own precepts and follow their own religion's guidelines, then where is the free practice of religion in the United States? Would it be equally "wrong" to allow an Orthodox Jewish organization to adopt only to Orthodox Jews? As long as there are state and other adoption agencies that allow others to adopt, where is the problem?

Will Catholic and other religious schools be forced to hire teachers and staff whose beliefs go directly against their church's teaching? Where will people who want to adopt go if their consciences do not allow them to use an organization that goes against their belief system?

The other issue this brings up is one of government funding. It has always been my contention that as soon as a private school accepts government funding, the precedent is set for the government to begin to dictate the curriculum at the school. I was a lone ranger in my son's Catholic elementary school because I didn't want them receiving any money from the state which could jeopardize their Catholic identity. Apparently, there are many organizations and people within those organizations who don't mind the government dictating (to private institutions) what is taught, who gets hired, and how they run their business.

For organizations whose purpose is to support life or serve their religious beliefs, it would be wise to stay far away from governmental funding and government control in order to follow the dictates of conscience and the belief system they serve.

frogs, geese...and an owl
pink clouds on a blue sky
peaceful evening

birds chasing bugs
watercolor sky
evening in spring

Bye- Bye, Internet

I read something alarming in The Nation today. Jeff Chester reports:

The nation's largest telephone and cable companies are crafting an alarming set of strategies that would transform the free, open and nondiscriminatory Internet of today to a privately run and branded service that would charge a fee for virtually everything we do online.

This is horrifying, although not surprising. In white papers being circulated around the communications industry, plans are being proposed to have different levels of Internet service--all at a price, of course. Both telephone and cable companies oppose giving local communities the right to create their own wireless networks. They also want to get rid of requiring telecommunications companies to have public access TV channels.

The Nation asserts that "We must insure that phone and cable companies operate their Internet services in the public interest--as stewards for a vital medium for free expression" and I heartily agree.

If the government of the United States allows the Internet to become another self-serving giant commercial for business and not a vehicle for global communication, future generations will look back at our time, and point to us as putting the final nail in the coffin of world freedom. There are people around the world that we can communicate with every day via the World Wide Web. We can share our ideas and learn from each other. Making the internet wealth-dependent will snuff out freedom of expression and pave the way for one sided propaganda-driven junk media that now dominates both free and cable television in this country.

Common Cause has a protest email form to send out to the executives of Comcast, BellSouth, AT&T, Verizon and HTNet. PLEASE, I urge you, if you enjoy the internet today, if you enjoy reading or writing blogs, or anything online, click on the Common Cause link and fill out and send this form!

Common Cause also has a similar form to send to your Federal Senator(s)and Representatives.

Thanks to A Conservative Blog for Peace for the heads up about this story.

Bye- Bye, Internet

I read something alarming in The Nation today. Jeff Chester reports:

The nation's largest telephone and cable companies are crafting an alarming set of strategies that would transform the free, open and nondiscriminatory Internet of today to a privately run and branded service that would charge a fee for virtually everything we do online.

This is horrifying, although not surprising. In white papers being circulated around the communications industry, plans are being proposed to have different levels of Internet service--all at a price, of course. Both telephone and cable companies oppose giving local communities the right to create their own wireless networks. They also want to get rid of requiring telecommunications companies to have public access TV channels.

The Nation asserts that "We must insure that phone and cable companies operate their Internet services in the public interest--as stewards for a vital medium for free expression" and I heartily agree.

If the government of the United States allows the Internet to become another self-serving giant commercial for business and not a vehicle for global communication, future generations will look back at our time, and point to us as putting the final nail in the coffin of world freedom. There are people around the world that we can communicate with every day via the World Wide Web. We can share our ideas and learn from each other. Making the internet wealth-dependent will snuff out freedom of expression and pave the way for one sided propaganda-driven junk media that now dominates both free and cable television in this country.

Common Cause has a protest email form to send out to the executives of Comcast, BellSouth, AT&T, Verizon and HTNet. PLEASE, I urge you, if you enjoy the internet today, if you enjoy reading or writing blogs, or anything online, click on the Common Cause link and fill out and send this form!

Common Cause also has a similar form to send to your Federal Senator(s)and Representatives.

Thanks to A Conservative Blog for Peace for the heads up about this story.

small bursts of color
birds dart between bare trees
confident of spring

Mixed "Purebred" or Shelter Mut?

You've heard of those "designer purebred" dogs like the Labradoodle (Labrador mixed with a poodle)? Are they "real" purebreds? Does it matter?

Here is a site that dares you to tell the difference between some of these deliberately bred dogs and some found at local shelters. Even if you manage to get 100%, I think you'll be amazed at what you see!

Here is the quiz.

[Mine were mostly total guesses, and I got a 28%.]

Mixed "Purebred" or Shelter Mut?

You've heard of those "designer purebred" dogs like the Labradoodle (Labrador mixed with a poodle)? Are they "real" purebreds? Does it matter?

Here is a site that dares you to tell the difference between some of these deliberately bred dogs and some found at local shelters. Even if you manage to get 100%, I think you'll be amazed at what you see!

Here is the quiz.

[Mine were mostly total guesses, and I got a 28%.]

Dog Scouts of America

I came across something rather intriguing today--Dog Scouts of America. It is a non-profit organization founded in 1995 for the purpose of education, research and animal training. They give merit badges to "honor the learning and training achievements of the dog owners." They also give community service awards and a "Good Scout" award to those who promote humane education.

They advocate dog training using "kindness, fairness and patience rather than domination, force and intimidation" because dogs are not "furniture". They have a Dog Scout Camp each year where the dogs can learn such things as "Backpacking, Water Rescue, The Art of Shaping,Flyball, Agility, Search & Rescue, Herding, Carting, Frisbee, IMPROV Obedience, Tracking, Sledding, Freestyle Obedience, Weight Pull and Lure Coursing."

They have weekend outings, a newsletter and a discussion list.

For many, this may be a bit "over the top", but I think it can do a number of helpful things including humane education, community involvement and helping people become responsible pet owners. Anyone who watches Animal Planet knows of the horror stories that exist out there in the name of "pet" "ownership".

So many of us today don't think we have the time to join an organization whose main purpose might just be to have fun. But life is short (and dogs' lives are even shorter) and it may be time to rethink our priorities a bit.

Dog Scouts of America

I came across something rather intriguing today--Dog Scouts of America. It is a non-profit organization founded in 1995 for the purpose of education, research and animal training. They give merit badges to "honor the learning and training achievements of the dog owners." They also give community service awards and a "Good Scout" award to those who promote humane education.

They advocate dog training using "kindness, fairness and patience rather than domination, force and intimidation" because dogs are not "furniture". They have a Dog Scout Camp each year where the dogs can learn such things as "Backpacking, Water Rescue, The Art of Shaping,Flyball, Agility, Search & Rescue, Herding, Carting, Frisbee, IMPROV Obedience, Tracking, Sledding, Freestyle Obedience, Weight Pull and Lure Coursing."

They have weekend outings, a newsletter and a discussion list.

For many, this may be a bit "over the top", but I think it can do a number of helpful things including humane education, community involvement and helping people become responsible pet owners. Anyone who watches Animal Planet knows of the horror stories that exist out there in the name of "pet" "ownership".

So many of us today don't think we have the time to join an organization whose main purpose might just be to have fun. But life is short (and dogs' lives are even shorter) and it may be time to rethink our priorities a bit.

Fashion takes a U-Turn

There have been recent news reports on the "Muslimization" of fashion by the fashion gurus around the world. In spite of the panic that this has caused in some circles, I find it a welcome breath of fresh air.

The Japanese Yamamoto, a designer of poetic, romantic clothes for a quarter of a century, said backstage: "I am very bored with tiny, sexy little fashion and with T-shirts and jeans - I want women's clothes."

I, for one, can't wait until this design trend trickles down to the everyday stores that I have access to. Not all of us are built like 11 year olds. Not all of us want to run around nearly naked in public. For years, parents have complained that there is nothing appropriate in the stores to buy their daughters for special occasions that doesn't make them look like wannabe street walkers.

Unfortunately, as in all fashion trends, the apparent modesty trend that is on the horizon will eventually pass. But maybe we can vote with our wallets and not buy the ridiculous stuff that passes for fashion currently. Let the fashion industry know what you want!

Fashion takes a U-Turn

There have been recent news reports on the "Muslimization" of fashion by the fashion gurus around the world. In spite of the panic that this has caused in some circles, I find it a welcome breath of fresh air.

The Japanese Yamamoto, a designer of poetic, romantic clothes for a quarter of a century, said backstage: "I am very bored with tiny, sexy little fashion and with T-shirts and jeans - I want women's clothes."

I, for one, can't wait until this design trend trickles down to the everyday stores that I have access to. Not all of us are built like 11 year olds. Not all of us want to run around nearly naked in public. For years, parents have complained that there is nothing appropriate in the stores to buy their daughters for special occasions that doesn't make them look like wannabe street walkers.

Unfortunately, as in all fashion trends, the apparent modesty trend that is on the horizon will eventually pass. But maybe we can vote with our wallets and not buy the ridiculous stuff that passes for fashion currently. Let the fashion industry know what you want!

Works of Mercy

Today's Gospel reading is from Matthew 25: 31-46:

For I was hungry and you gave me food,
I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
a stranger and you welcomed me,
naked and you clothed me,
ill and you cared for me,
in prison and you visited me.
Then the righteous will answer him and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and give you drink?
When did we see you a stranger and welcome you,
or naked and clothe you?
When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?
And the king will say to them in reply,
‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did
for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’

This is the scriptural basis for one aspect of what Lent is all about. During Lent we are asked to do fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Almsgiving is not only about giving money to the poor but about what the Church calls Works of Mercy. According to Church tradition, there are 7 Spiritual Works of Mercy and 7 Corporal Works of Mercy.

The Corporal Works of Mercy

To feed the hungry
To give drink to the thirsty.
To clothe the naked.
To visit and ransom the captives.
To shelter the homeless.
To visit the sick.
To bury the dead.


The Spiritual Works of Mercy

To admonish sinners.
To instruct the ignorant.
To counsel the doubtful.
To comfort the sorrowful.
To bear wrongs patiently.
To forgive all injuries.
To pray for the living and the dead.

To some, this lifestyle of doing good works is something that is rather taken for granted. Someone is sick, and you visit them. Someone dies, and you bake that casserole and send it over after the funeral. This is just what you do. Many will go to funerals of people they have not seen in 30 years because someone they know has died and they want to pray for their soul and comfort those left behind.

But for many in the world today, this is *not* what is done for them. Those who do not have a church home, or those who have not put down roots in a community are often surprised to see this type of generosity. They can't fathom a relative stranger doing this type of thing for them. But it is something that we are asked to do by the Lord and by the Church. It is a natural outgrowth of our commitment to Christ and our salvation.

So, if you are ever tempted to think that your presence by a sick bed, or at a funeral or homeless shelter does not make a difference, believe me, it does. Even more so, if you think that praying for a "hopeless" situation--even for someone who has already passed from this life, does no good, you are wrong. We are commanded to pray for the living and the dead. If you feel overwhelmed by your own life at the moment and you know that you cannot get out to do those Corporal Works of Mercy, you always have available to you the last of the Spiritual Works of Mercy--to pray for the living and the dead. You may not be granted the grace to see that difference while you are still on this earth, but it does make a difference.

Works of Mercy

Today's Gospel reading is from Matthew 25: 31-46:

For I was hungry and you gave me food,
I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
a stranger and you welcomed me,
naked and you clothed me,
ill and you cared for me,
in prison and you visited me.
Then the righteous will answer him and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and give you drink?
When did we see you a stranger and welcome you,
or naked and clothe you?
When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?
And the king will say to them in reply,
‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did
for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’

This is the scriptural basis for one aspect of what Lent is all about. During Lent we are asked to do fasting, prayer and almsgiving. Almsgiving is not only about giving money to the poor but about what the Church calls Works of Mercy. According to Church tradition, there are 7 Spiritual Works of Mercy and 7 Corporal Works of Mercy.

The Corporal Works of Mercy

To feed the hungry
To give drink to the thirsty.
To clothe the naked.
To visit and ransom the captives.
To shelter the homeless.
To visit the sick.
To bury the dead.


The Spiritual Works of Mercy

To admonish sinners.
To instruct the ignorant.
To counsel the doubtful.
To comfort the sorrowful.
To bear wrongs patiently.
To forgive all injuries.
To pray for the living and the dead.

To some, this lifestyle of doing good works is something that is rather taken for granted. Someone is sick, and you visit them. Someone dies, and you bake that casserole and send it over after the funeral. This is just what you do. Many will go to funerals of people they have not seen in 30 years because someone they know has died and they want to pray for their soul and comfort those left behind.

But for many in the world today, this is *not* what is done for them. Those who do not have a church home, or those who have not put down roots in a community are often surprised to see this type of generosity. They can't fathom a relative stranger doing this type of thing for them. But it is something that we are asked to do by the Lord and by the Church. It is a natural outgrowth of our commitment to Christ and our salvation.

So, if you are ever tempted to think that your presence by a sick bed, or at a funeral or homeless shelter does not make a difference, believe me, it does. Even more so, if you think that praying for a "hopeless" situation--even for someone who has already passed from this life, does no good, you are wrong. We are commanded to pray for the living and the dead. If you feel overwhelmed by your own life at the moment and you know that you cannot get out to do those Corporal Works of Mercy, you always have available to you the last of the Spiritual Works of Mercy--to pray for the living and the dead. You may not be granted the grace to see that difference while you are still on this earth, but it does make a difference.

On a totally non-Lenten note...

You Passed the US Citizenship Test

Congratulations - you got 10 out of 10 correct!

Could You Pass the US Citizenship Test?

On a totally non-Lenten note...

You Passed the US Citizenship Test

Congratulations - you got 10 out of 10 correct!

Could You Pass the US Citizenship Test?

Examination of Conscience

Continuing our study of the Seven Deadly Sins, here is an Examination of Conscience based on them by Holy Spirit Interactive. These are the types of questions to ask yourself prior to confession.

The 7 Deadly Sins

Anger

1. Do you refuse enduring anything contrary to what you want?
2. Do you allow yourself wrath to anyone that gives you trouble?
3. Do you allow yourself to proceed in quarrels, injurious language, curses, threats, revenge, or a capacity of exercising it?
4. Do you refuse to forgive those that have had misunderstandings?

Envy

1. Do you have trouble with the success of a friend?
2. Do you try and do an unkindness or speak ill of a friend?
3. Do you create an ill opinion of him to make yourself look better to another?
4. Are you happy when something bad happens to your enemies?

Gluttony

1. Do you eat to excess?
2. Do you drink to excess?
3. Is your over indulgence an ill example to others?

Pride

1. Do you have a too high opinion of yourself?
2. Do you have such a high opinion of yourself that you have contempt for others?
3. Do you tell the good things you do just to be esteemed by others?
4. Do you confide too much in your own strength thereby showing ingratitude to God?

Sloth

1. Do you love idleness?
2. Do you neglect doing for others?
3. Do you neglect your prayers?
4. Are you too generous with play and not with work?
5. Are you neat and orderly in your appearance?
6. Are you neat and orderly in your house and possessions?

Lust

1. Do you love others over God?
2. Do you use indecent gestures or actions?
3. Do you read immodest books or look at immodest pictures?
4. Do you willfully entertain impure thoughts?

Greed

1. Have you given when needed?
2. Have you hoarded?
3. Do you want more?

Examination of Conscience

Continuing our study of the Seven Deadly Sins, here is an Examination of Conscience based on them by Holy Spirit Interactive. These are the types of questions to ask yourself prior to confession.

The 7 Deadly Sins

Anger

1. Do you refuse enduring anything contrary to what you want?
2. Do you allow yourself wrath to anyone that gives you trouble?
3. Do you allow yourself to proceed in quarrels, injurious language, curses, threats, revenge, or a capacity of exercising it?
4. Do you refuse to forgive those that have had misunderstandings?

Envy

1. Do you have trouble with the success of a friend?
2. Do you try and do an unkindness or speak ill of a friend?
3. Do you create an ill opinion of him to make yourself look better to another?
4. Are you happy when something bad happens to your enemies?

Gluttony

1. Do you eat to excess?
2. Do you drink to excess?
3. Is your over indulgence an ill example to others?

Pride

1. Do you have a too high opinion of yourself?
2. Do you have such a high opinion of yourself that you have contempt for others?
3. Do you tell the good things you do just to be esteemed by others?
4. Do you confide too much in your own strength thereby showing ingratitude to God?

Sloth

1. Do you love idleness?
2. Do you neglect doing for others?
3. Do you neglect your prayers?
4. Are you too generous with play and not with work?
5. Are you neat and orderly in your appearance?
6. Are you neat and orderly in your house and possessions?

Lust

1. Do you love others over God?
2. Do you use indecent gestures or actions?
3. Do you read immodest books or look at immodest pictures?
4. Do you willfully entertain impure thoughts?

Greed

1. Have you given when needed?
2. Have you hoarded?
3. Do you want more?

sun and moon
singing together
evensong

bundled up
the dog and I
sunset walk

the bitter cold
seeps through our layers
can't stop here!

Virtues and Vices for Lent

Since it is Lent, I thought I'd blog about the never-cheery but ever-pertenent subject of the Seven Deadly Sins. The Whitestone Journal has a lot of very good information about the Seven Deadly Sins and the virtues that oppose them.

Vice.............Virtue

(1)Pride..........Humility

Seeing ourselves as we are and not comparing ourselves to others is humility. Pride and vanity are competitive. If someone else's pride really bothers you, you have a lot of pride.

(2) Envy..........Love

"Love is patient, love is kind…" Love actively seeks the good of others for their sake. Envy resents the good others receive or even might receive. Envy is almost indistinguishable from pride at times.

(3) Wrath/Anger..........Kindness

Kindness means taking the tender approach, with patience and compassion. Anger is often our first reaction to the problems of others. Impatience with the faults of others is related to this.

(4) Sloth..........Zeal

Zeal is the energetic response of the heart to God's commands. The other sins work together to deaden the spiritual senses so we first become slow to respond to God and then drift completely into the sleep of complacency.

(5) Avarice/Greed..........Generosity

This is about more than money. Generosity means letting others get the credit or praise. It is giving without having expectations of the other person. Greed wants to get its "fair share" or a bit more.

(6)Gluttony..........Faith and Temperance

Temperance accepts the natural limits of pleasures and preserves this natural balance. This does not pertain only to food, but to entertainment and other legitimate goods, and even the company of others.

(7)Lust..........Self control

Self control and self mastery prevent pleasure from killing the soul by suffocation. Legitimate pleasures are controlled in the same way an athlete's muscles are: for maximum efficiency without damage. Lust is the self-destructive drive for pleasure out of proportion to its worth. Sex, power, or image can be used well, but they tend to go out of control.

This reminds me of something I once read: If something consistently bothers you about another person, pray for that person, and for yourself, practice the opposite virtue.