I found a wonderfully written "new" blog.
Standing on My Head by Father Dwight Longenecker is witty, well written and full of useful information. It's what I wish my blog were like.
He comes to the Catholic Church via Anglicanism via American Evangelicalism.
I especially like his recent post about the early Lent grumpies.
Yeah, he *gets it*.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Yet another blog
I found a wonderfully written "new" blog.
Standing on My Head by Father Dwight Longenecker is witty, well written and full of useful information. It's what I wish my blog were like.
He comes to the Catholic Church via Anglicanism via American Evangelicalism.
I especially like his recent post about the early Lent grumpies.
Yeah, he *gets it*.
Standing on My Head by Father Dwight Longenecker is witty, well written and full of useful information. It's what I wish my blog were like.
He comes to the Catholic Church via Anglicanism via American Evangelicalism.
I especially like his recent post about the early Lent grumpies.
Yeah, he *gets it*.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Some thoughts on prayer
What is prayer? What sort of prayer is most helpful? The most common type of prayer, I think, has to be intercessory prayer. We ask God to intervene in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. We must always remember, prayer does work. Prayer changes things. Jesus told us that persistance in prayer will pay off.
But, we needn't be overly verbal in our persistance. God knows what we need before we ask Him (Matthew 6) . A simple daily offering up of the intention is enough.
But perhaps we shouldn't rely only on intercessory prayer. When asking God to "intervene" in our lives, to step in and "change things", we really are asking Him to do something that He has already done. God, the Divine Creator, is outside of time and space. He knows what will happen and has ordaned everything for our good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)
Lent reminds us that it is not all about us. It is about God. Prayer can, and should, include meditating on the Glory and Love of God through such things as the Stations of the Cross and the mysteries of the Rosary. These show us the things that God has done for us, through Christ. This Love has inspired countless artists of all types to illustrate these important details in the life of Christ through music, words, painting, film and other media.
Today, the forces of evil, which are often disguised as "an angel of light" (2 Corrinthians 11:14), have saturated our culture with images of all kinds. We must consciously reject those images by meditating on the account of our salvation, given to us through scripture and inspiring people for centuries.
Illustrated Stations of the Cross can be prayed alone and are especially appropriate during Lent. Many parishes have group stations some time on Fridays during the Lenten season. If you visit this online Lenten Companion site, you can pray the stations of the cross while on your computer. Just click on the blue arrow to advance the screen after each station.
The same site has a beautiful online Rosary which works in the same way. Click on the blue right arrow to advance the page. After praying the initial prayers, it will give you a choice of which mysteries to pray. A common tradition is to pray the Joyful mysteries on Monday and Saturday, The Sorrowful Mysteries on Tuesday and Friday, the Luminous Mysteries on Thursday and the Glorious Mysteries on Sunday.
But, we needn't be overly verbal in our persistance. God knows what we need before we ask Him (Matthew 6) . A simple daily offering up of the intention is enough.
But perhaps we shouldn't rely only on intercessory prayer. When asking God to "intervene" in our lives, to step in and "change things", we really are asking Him to do something that He has already done. God, the Divine Creator, is outside of time and space. He knows what will happen and has ordaned everything for our good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)
Lent reminds us that it is not all about us. It is about God. Prayer can, and should, include meditating on the Glory and Love of God through such things as the Stations of the Cross and the mysteries of the Rosary. These show us the things that God has done for us, through Christ. This Love has inspired countless artists of all types to illustrate these important details in the life of Christ through music, words, painting, film and other media.
Today, the forces of evil, which are often disguised as "an angel of light" (2 Corrinthians 11:14), have saturated our culture with images of all kinds. We must consciously reject those images by meditating on the account of our salvation, given to us through scripture and inspiring people for centuries.
Illustrated Stations of the Cross can be prayed alone and are especially appropriate during Lent. Many parishes have group stations some time on Fridays during the Lenten season. If you visit this online Lenten Companion site, you can pray the stations of the cross while on your computer. Just click on the blue arrow to advance the screen after each station.
The same site has a beautiful online Rosary which works in the same way. Click on the blue right arrow to advance the page. After praying the initial prayers, it will give you a choice of which mysteries to pray. A common tradition is to pray the Joyful mysteries on Monday and Saturday, The Sorrowful Mysteries on Tuesday and Friday, the Luminous Mysteries on Thursday and the Glorious Mysteries on Sunday.
Some thoughts on prayer
What is prayer? What sort of prayer is most helpful? The most common type of prayer, I think, has to be intercessory prayer. We ask God to intervene in our lives and the lives of our loved ones. We must always remember, prayer does work. Prayer changes things. Jesus told us that persistance in prayer will pay off.
But, we needn't be overly verbal in our persistance. God knows what we need before we ask Him (Matthew 6) . A simple daily offering up of the intention is enough.
But perhaps we shouldn't rely only on intercessory prayer. When asking God to "intervene" in our lives, to step in and "change things", we really are asking Him to do something that He has already done. God, the Divine Creator, is outside of time and space. He knows what will happen and has ordaned everything for our good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)
Lent reminds us that it is not all about us. It is about God. Prayer can, and should, include meditating on the Glory and Love of God through such things as the Stations of the Cross and the mysteries of the Rosary. These show us the things that God has done for us, through Christ. This Love has inspired countless artists of all types to illustrate these important details in the life of Christ through music, words, painting, film and other media.
Today, the forces of evil, which are often disguised as "an angel of light" (2 Corrinthians 11:14), have saturated our culture with images of all kinds. We must consciously reject those images by meditating on the account of our salvation, given to us through scripture and inspiring people for centuries.
Illustrated Stations of the Cross can be prayed alone and are especially appropriate during Lent. Many parishes have group stations some time on Fridays during the Lenten season. If you visit this online Lenten Companion site, you can pray the stations of the cross while on your computer. Just click on the blue arrow to advance the screen after each station.
The same site has a beautiful online Rosary which works in the same way. Click on the blue right arrow to advance the page. After praying the initial prayers, it will give you a choice of which mysteries to pray. A common tradition is to pray the Joyful mysteries on Monday and Saturday, The Sorrowful Mysteries on Tuesday and Friday, the Luminous Mysteries on Thursday and the Glorious Mysteries on Sunday.
But, we needn't be overly verbal in our persistance. God knows what we need before we ask Him (Matthew 6) . A simple daily offering up of the intention is enough.
But perhaps we shouldn't rely only on intercessory prayer. When asking God to "intervene" in our lives, to step in and "change things", we really are asking Him to do something that He has already done. God, the Divine Creator, is outside of time and space. He knows what will happen and has ordaned everything for our good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)
Lent reminds us that it is not all about us. It is about God. Prayer can, and should, include meditating on the Glory and Love of God through such things as the Stations of the Cross and the mysteries of the Rosary. These show us the things that God has done for us, through Christ. This Love has inspired countless artists of all types to illustrate these important details in the life of Christ through music, words, painting, film and other media.
Today, the forces of evil, which are often disguised as "an angel of light" (2 Corrinthians 11:14), have saturated our culture with images of all kinds. We must consciously reject those images by meditating on the account of our salvation, given to us through scripture and inspiring people for centuries.
Illustrated Stations of the Cross can be prayed alone and are especially appropriate during Lent. Many parishes have group stations some time on Fridays during the Lenten season. If you visit this online Lenten Companion site, you can pray the stations of the cross while on your computer. Just click on the blue arrow to advance the screen after each station.
The same site has a beautiful online Rosary which works in the same way. Click on the blue right arrow to advance the page. After praying the initial prayers, it will give you a choice of which mysteries to pray. A common tradition is to pray the Joyful mysteries on Monday and Saturday, The Sorrowful Mysteries on Tuesday and Friday, the Luminous Mysteries on Thursday and the Glorious Mysteries on Sunday.
Oh Worship the King!
On the Feast of the Epiphany, our parish hosted our Bishop, Kevin Rhodes. As I remember, everything went surprisingly well. This week, a parishoner has displayed all the photos she took of the occasion and has offered people copies. As I looked over the pictures, I noticed how beautiful the sanctuary was, with all the Christmas decorations. I also noticed how exquisite the priests' vestments were and how handsomely the parishioners were dressed.
Then it occured to me--why do we not take this much care in the quality of our worship every week? Jesus is far more important and is present in the Blessed Sacrament every day.
Then it occured to me--why do we not take this much care in the quality of our worship every week? Jesus is far more important and is present in the Blessed Sacrament every day.
Oh Worship the King!
On the Feast of the Epiphany, our parish hosted our Bishop, Kevin Rhodes. As I remember, everything went surprisingly well. This week, a parishoner has displayed all the photos she took of the occasion and has offered people copies. As I looked over the pictures, I noticed how beautiful the sanctuary was, with all the Christmas decorations. I also noticed how exquisite the priests' vestments were and how handsomely the parishioners were dressed.
Then it occured to me--why do we not take this much care in the quality of our worship every week? Jesus is far more important and is present in the Blessed Sacrament every day.
Then it occured to me--why do we not take this much care in the quality of our worship every week? Jesus is far more important and is present in the Blessed Sacrament every day.
Prayer for Lent
Oh Great Redeemer,
come into the world
to take my many sins
upon yourself,
grant me deep repentance.
Take away my desire to sin
and help me live in true newness of life.
Prayer for Lent
Oh Great Redeemer,
come into the world
to take my many sins
upon yourself,
grant me deep repentance.
Take away my desire to sin
and help me live in true newness of life.
Monday, February 26, 2007
Another Anti-Christian Money Maker
Saw a bit of a story on Good Morning America this morning. Seems that someone has found yet another burial ossuary that he claims is the burial place of Jesus. Apparently there is an inscription bearing the words "Jesus son of Joseph" as well as some reference to the "Jesus" in question being the father of "Judah."
The story said that the tomb had been discovered (I think it was) 27 years ago and archaeologists at the time did not think it had anything to do with Jesus of Nazareth.
Hmmm...why bring it up now, then? Oh, that's right. It's Lent. Got to try to debunk Christianity during their holy season. Plus, think of all the money to be made! (Remember all that Gospel of Judas crap that came out last Easter?)
For the real scoop on this, go to scripture scholar Ben Witherington's Blog.
Hat tip to Amy Welborn for the info.
The story said that the tomb had been discovered (I think it was) 27 years ago and archaeologists at the time did not think it had anything to do with Jesus of Nazareth.
Hmmm...why bring it up now, then? Oh, that's right. It's Lent. Got to try to debunk Christianity during their holy season. Plus, think of all the money to be made! (Remember all that Gospel of Judas crap that came out last Easter?)
For the real scoop on this, go to scripture scholar Ben Witherington's Blog.
Hat tip to Amy Welborn for the info.
Another Anti-Christian Money Maker
Saw a bit of a story on Good Morning America this morning. Seems that someone has found yet another burial ossuary that he claims is the burial place of Jesus. Apparently there is an inscription bearing the words "Jesus son of Joseph" as well as some reference to the "Jesus" in question being the father of "Judah."
The story said that the tomb had been discovered (I think it was) 27 years ago and archaeologists at the time did not think it had anything to do with Jesus of Nazareth.
Hmmm...why bring it up now, then? Oh, that's right. It's Lent. Got to try to debunk Christianity during their holy season. Plus, think of all the money to be made! (Remember all that Gospel of Judas crap that came out last Easter?)
For the real scoop on this, go to scripture scholar Ben Witherington's Blog.
Hat tip to Amy Welborn for the info.
The story said that the tomb had been discovered (I think it was) 27 years ago and archaeologists at the time did not think it had anything to do with Jesus of Nazareth.
Hmmm...why bring it up now, then? Oh, that's right. It's Lent. Got to try to debunk Christianity during their holy season. Plus, think of all the money to be made! (Remember all that Gospel of Judas crap that came out last Easter?)
For the real scoop on this, go to scripture scholar Ben Witherington's Blog.
Hat tip to Amy Welborn for the info.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
More new blogs!
I found a couple more great new blogs. Teresa Tomeo's site, Catholic Media Alert, is a much needed voice of sanity in today's media. She is a Catholic radio talk show host and an expert on media awareness from a Catholic perspective. Her book is called, "Noise" and the quote on the top of her blog says it all:
We are no longer able to hear God--
there are too many different frequencies filling our ears.
~Pope Benedict XVI
I have discovered another blogger who happens to have both a "regular" blog and a beautiful poetry blog. Autumn Rose's blog is called Christ's Rose and her poetry blog is called Healing Words. Both are worth a read.
More new blogs!
I found a couple more great new blogs. Teresa Tomeo's site, Catholic Media Alert, is a much needed voice of sanity in today's media. She is a Catholic radio talk show host and an expert on media awareness from a Catholic perspective. Her book is called, "Noise" and the quote on the top of her blog says it all:
We are no longer able to hear God--
there are too many different frequencies filling our ears.
~Pope Benedict XVI
I have discovered another blogger who happens to have both a "regular" blog and a beautiful poetry blog. Autumn Rose's blog is called Christ's Rose and her poetry blog is called Healing Words. Both are worth a read.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Thought for the Day
People are not persuaded by what we say,
but rather, by what they understand.
~quote from a fortune cookie
Thought for the Day
People are not persuaded by what we say,
but rather, by what they understand.
~quote from a fortune cookie
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Pope Benedict on Lent
The Holy Father, in his general audience on Ash Wednesday, said that Lent is a time for conversion and not self realization. Conversion, he said, is not a one-time thing, but a life-long journey to Christ.
Let this Lent be for us, a time of turning toward our Creator in humble adoration and asking for His will to be done in our lives.
Lent is an appropriate spiritual moment to train ourselves more earnestly to seek God, opening our hearts to Christ. (Conversion) is not an effort of self-realization. Self-realization is a contradiction, and it is too little for us. We have a higher destiny. Conversion consists precisely in not thinking that one is the 'creator' of oneself, and thus discovering the truth.This is important for us to remember, especially in the U.S. We are so programed to think that we are in total control of our own destinies and that we are the highest form of existance that we tend to forget God.
Let this Lent be for us, a time of turning toward our Creator in humble adoration and asking for His will to be done in our lives.
Pope Benedict on Lent
The Holy Father, in his general audience on Ash Wednesday, said that Lent is a time for conversion and not self realization. Conversion, he said, is not a one-time thing, but a life-long journey to Christ.
Let this Lent be for us, a time of turning toward our Creator in humble adoration and asking for His will to be done in our lives.
Lent is an appropriate spiritual moment to train ourselves more earnestly to seek God, opening our hearts to Christ. (Conversion) is not an effort of self-realization. Self-realization is a contradiction, and it is too little for us. We have a higher destiny. Conversion consists precisely in not thinking that one is the 'creator' of oneself, and thus discovering the truth.This is important for us to remember, especially in the U.S. We are so programed to think that we are in total control of our own destinies and that we are the highest form of existance that we tend to forget God.
Let this Lent be for us, a time of turning toward our Creator in humble adoration and asking for His will to be done in our lives.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Litany for Lent
Litany for Lent
Lord Jesus, you have come to save us
from our sins.
Lord, have mercy.
You fasted to encourage us
to do penance.
Lord, have mercy. You suffered temptation
to give us strength.
Lord, have mercy. You were transfigured
to give us hope.
Lord, have mercy.
You suffered insults
to bring us salvation.
Lord, have mercy.
You accepted death
to bring us life with you.
Lord, have mercy.
Hat tip to Catholic Doors.
Litany for Lent
Litany for Lent
Lord Jesus, you have come to save us
from our sins.
Lord, have mercy.
You fasted to encourage us
to do penance.
Lord, have mercy. You suffered temptation
to give us strength.
Lord, have mercy. You were transfigured
to give us hope.
Lord, have mercy.
You suffered insults
to bring us salvation.
Lord, have mercy.
You accepted death
to bring us life with you.
Lord, have mercy.
Hat tip to Catholic Doors.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Global Fast '07
I've been looking for a place to donate money that we will be saving by giving up going out for dinner during Lent. Looks like this is the place. Join me if you feel so moved. Their "one day to change the world" is, of course, tomorrow--Ash Wednesday. But they will continue their program of sustainable help to the world's poor throughout the year.
Global Fast '07
I've been looking for a place to donate money that we will be saving by giving up going out for dinner during Lent. Looks like this is the place. Join me if you feel so moved. Their "one day to change the world" is, of course, tomorrow--Ash Wednesday. But they will continue their program of sustainable help to the world's poor throughout the year.
The Devotion to the Holy Face
In 1958, Pope Pius XII confirmed that the feast of the Holy Face would take place on Shrove Tuesday each year. The medal of the Holy Face is said to be powerful against demons and is available free of charge from the Holy Face Association.Devotion to the Holy face has gone back at least to the second century. The Apocraphal Acts of Pilate says that Veronica was the biblical woman Jesus cured of the hemorrhage and that she testified on His behalf at His trial. Later, as he carried His cross to Gethsemane, Veronica was said to have tried to comfort Him by wiping His bruised and bloody face with her veil. At any rate, Scripture does speak of the women who were along the route to His crucifixion, mourning for Him, and of women who followed Him during His life, ministering to Our Lord and the Apostles.
Modern fascination with the Holy Face includes the Shroud of Turin. Whether one believes that the Shroud is authentic or not is beside the point. Devotion to the Holy Face is powerful and efficacious, especially during Lent.
In a vision in 1848, Sr. Mary of St. Peter tells us that the image of the Holy Face of Jesus is a stamp that imprints the image of the Divine on our souls.
Prayer to the Holy Face
' I salute You, I adore You and I love You,
adorable Face of my beloved Jesus,
as the noble stamp of the Divinity!
Completely surrendering my soul to You,
I most humbly beg You to stamp this seal upon us all,
so that the image of God may once more
be reproduced by its imprint in our souls.
Amen'
The Devotion to the Holy Face
In 1958, Pope Pius XII confirmed that the feast of the Holy Face would take place on Shrove Tuesday each year. The medal of the Holy Face is said to be powerful against demons and is available free of charge from the Holy Face Association.Devotion to the Holy face has gone back at least to the second century. The Apocraphal Acts of Pilate says that Veronica was the biblical woman Jesus cured of the hemorrhage and that she testified on His behalf at His trial. Later, as he carried His cross to Gethsemane, Veronica was said to have tried to comfort Him by wiping His bruised and bloody face with her veil. At any rate, Scripture does speak of the women who were along the route to His crucifixion, mourning for Him, and of women who followed Him during His life, ministering to Our Lord and the Apostles.
Modern fascination with the Holy Face includes the Shroud of Turin. Whether one believes that the Shroud is authentic or not is beside the point. Devotion to the Holy Face is powerful and efficacious, especially during Lent.
In a vision in 1848, Sr. Mary of St. Peter tells us that the image of the Holy Face of Jesus is a stamp that imprints the image of the Divine on our souls.
Prayer to the Holy Face
' I salute You, I adore You and I love You,
adorable Face of my beloved Jesus,
as the noble stamp of the Divinity!
Completely surrendering my soul to You,
I most humbly beg You to stamp this seal upon us all,
so that the image of God may once more
be reproduced by its imprint in our souls.
Amen'
Shrove Tuesday
Today is known by various names in various cultures. In Germany, and parts of Pennsylvania, it is called fastnacht, which actually means "Fast night". It is a German tradition to use up your flour, sugar and eggs by making fastnauchts, or donuts. My own grandmother used to make these on the day before Lent for her family.
An English name for this day is Shrove Tuesday. On Shrove Tuesday, the traditional practice grew up of making and eating pancakes in order to use up the sugar, eggs, milk, etc. that were forbidden during Lent. My dh and I have fond memories of eating pancakes in college on Shrove Tuesday. The generous people at the local Episcopal Church would host a pancake supper each year, which was free to struggling college students.
The word "Shrove" comes from the English word "shrive" which means to hear confessions. The tradition in the Church around 1000 A.D. was
So, enjoy yourself this Shrove Tuesday, and look ahead to the Journey that is Lent.
An English name for this day is Shrove Tuesday. On Shrove Tuesday, the traditional practice grew up of making and eating pancakes in order to use up the sugar, eggs, milk, etc. that were forbidden during Lent. My dh and I have fond memories of eating pancakes in college on Shrove Tuesday. The generous people at the local Episcopal Church would host a pancake supper each year, which was free to struggling college students.
The word "Shrove" comes from the English word "shrive" which means to hear confessions. The tradition in the Church around 1000 A.D. was
"In the week immediately before Lent everyone shall go to his confessor and confess his deeds and the confessor shall so shrive him as he then my hear by his deeds what he is to do [in the way of penance]". ~the Anglo-Saxon "Ecclesiastical Institutes" translated from Theodulphus by Abbot AelfricLent, then, was a time for the cleaning of one's home and of one's soul. We still have the idea of "Spring Cleaning" as well as the common custom of Lenten Penance Services, which came from this time.
So, enjoy yourself this Shrove Tuesday, and look ahead to the Journey that is Lent.
Shrove Tuesday
Today is known by various names in various cultures. In Germany, and parts of Pennsylvania, it is called fastnacht, which actually means "Fast night". It is a German tradition to use up your flour, sugar and eggs by making fastnauchts, or donuts. My own grandmother used to make these on the day before Lent for her family.
An English name for this day is Shrove Tuesday. On Shrove Tuesday, the traditional practice grew up of making and eating pancakes in order to use up the sugar, eggs, milk, etc. that were forbidden during Lent. My dh and I have fond memories of eating pancakes in college on Shrove Tuesday. The generous people at the local Episcopal Church would host a pancake supper each year, which was free to struggling college students.
The word "Shrove" comes from the English word "shrive" which means to hear confessions. The tradition in the Church around 1000 A.D. was
So, enjoy yourself this Shrove Tuesday, and look ahead to the Journey that is Lent.
An English name for this day is Shrove Tuesday. On Shrove Tuesday, the traditional practice grew up of making and eating pancakes in order to use up the sugar, eggs, milk, etc. that were forbidden during Lent. My dh and I have fond memories of eating pancakes in college on Shrove Tuesday. The generous people at the local Episcopal Church would host a pancake supper each year, which was free to struggling college students.
The word "Shrove" comes from the English word "shrive" which means to hear confessions. The tradition in the Church around 1000 A.D. was
"In the week immediately before Lent everyone shall go to his confessor and confess his deeds and the confessor shall so shrive him as he then my hear by his deeds what he is to do [in the way of penance]". ~the Anglo-Saxon "Ecclesiastical Institutes" translated from Theodulphus by Abbot AelfricLent, then, was a time for the cleaning of one's home and of one's soul. We still have the idea of "Spring Cleaning" as well as the common custom of Lenten Penance Services, which came from this time.
So, enjoy yourself this Shrove Tuesday, and look ahead to the Journey that is Lent.
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Check out These Blogs
I wanted to share a couple of new blogs I've recently found. Danielle Bean of Danielle Daily is a homeschooling mom of 8 from New Hampshire and writes a very witty blog about her daily life with her family.Fr. Joe Jenkins joins our priest bloggers. He is a priest in Forestville, MD.
Mac McLernon writes Mulier Fortis from the UK where she teaches college level Theology, General RE, Psychology and Biology. Check out Catholicism in the UK, which, by the way, is growing by leaps and bounds.
Our Lady's Tears is a beautiful spiritual blog dedicated to the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady. Inspirational pictures and informative text.
I'm not sure if I've mentioned Jayne over at So Many Devotions. Its a great blog about various devotions and sacramentals in the Catholic Church--something that has NOT gone away, no matter what you may have heard to the contrary!
Enjoy!
Check out These Blogs
I wanted to share a couple of new blogs I've recently found. Danielle Bean of Danielle Daily is a homeschooling mom of 8 from New Hampshire and writes a very witty blog about her daily life with her family.Fr. Joe Jenkins joins our priest bloggers. He is a priest in Forestville, MD.
Mac McLernon writes Mulier Fortis from the UK where she teaches college level Theology, General RE, Psychology and Biology. Check out Catholicism in the UK, which, by the way, is growing by leaps and bounds.
Our Lady's Tears is a beautiful spiritual blog dedicated to the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady. Inspirational pictures and informative text.
I'm not sure if I've mentioned Jayne over at So Many Devotions. Its a great blog about various devotions and sacramentals in the Catholic Church--something that has NOT gone away, no matter what you may have heard to the contrary!
Enjoy!
Have a Holy Lent
This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. The central spiritual practice of Lent is fasting. Byzantines.net tells us that there are 2 types of fasting.
Corporal Fasting
First, we have Corporal, or External Fasting. This is the familiar giving up of certain foods or food groups that many people do for Lent. In the Western Church we are to refrain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, and all the Fridays of Lent. Additionally, on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, we are to eat no more than one full meal and 2 smaller meals. There are those Eastern Christians who give up animal products, oil and wine for the entire Lenten season.
Also included in Corporal Fasting is the idea of "fasting from amusements." This was thought to be very important by the early Church Fathers. In our modern culture, where we are never without "amusements" at the touch of a button, perhaps we should re-examine this aspect of Corporal fasting. When we turn off the outside entertainment that is literally all around us now, what is left in our minds and souls?
Spiritual Fasting
The other type of fasting is Spiritual or Internal Fasting, which involves, basically, fasting from all types of sin. Lest you think that would be unnecessary or too easy, take a look at this list of sins of the tongue from scripture. (Hat tip to this web page.)
Angry talk, quarreling and slander are both common and closely related.
Years ago, coarse joking and obscenities were something that sometimes took place in smoke filled rooms out of the range of women and children. Now, such things are on television even during what used to be called "the family hour" and are difficult to get away from. Characters in sitcoms have no compunction about referring to p*rnography as if were a normal, healthy past time. Take a look at the atmosphere you are immersed in during the next 6 weeks of Lent, and be aware of this, unfortunately, very common sin.
Blasphemy is another common phenomenon these days. Making light of the One God is fair game in many circles, but it is a sin.
I liked the definition I found of boasting -- self-centered talk. Distortion of the truth involves mixing the false with the true in order to gain something that we want. How many of us use these tactics in life to get by or get ahead? Godless chatter is another very common one, I think. It involves empty, misleading, babbling.
Our last sin of the tongue to avoid this Lent, is the sin of flattery. Flattery is a sin!? Yep. Flattery is a sin when it is used for our own gain, or is untrue.
This puts me in mind of the monastic tradition of silence. Sometimes it is good to maintain exterior silence, for the good of our own souls and those around us.
So, there is plenty to fast from during Lent, and for the rest of our lives.
Corporal Fasting
First, we have Corporal, or External Fasting. This is the familiar giving up of certain foods or food groups that many people do for Lent. In the Western Church we are to refrain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, and all the Fridays of Lent. Additionally, on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, we are to eat no more than one full meal and 2 smaller meals. There are those Eastern Christians who give up animal products, oil and wine for the entire Lenten season.
Also included in Corporal Fasting is the idea of "fasting from amusements." This was thought to be very important by the early Church Fathers. In our modern culture, where we are never without "amusements" at the touch of a button, perhaps we should re-examine this aspect of Corporal fasting. When we turn off the outside entertainment that is literally all around us now, what is left in our minds and souls?
Spiritual Fasting
The other type of fasting is Spiritual or Internal Fasting, which involves, basically, fasting from all types of sin. Lest you think that would be unnecessary or too easy, take a look at this list of sins of the tongue from scripture. (Hat tip to this web page.)
- Gossip( 2 Cor. 12:20, 1 Tim. 5:13)
- Lying (Acts 5:4, Col. 3:9)
- Angry Talk (2 Cor. 12:20, Col. 3:8)
- Quarreling (1 Cor. 3:3, 2 Tim. 2:23-24)
- Slander (Eph 4:31, James 4:11)
- Coarse Joking (Eph. 5:4)
- Obscenity (Eph. 5:4, Col. 3:8)
- Blasphemy (1 Tim 1:20, 6:1)
- Boasting (2 Tim., 3:2, James 4:16)
- Distortion of the Truth (2 Cor. 2-17, 4:2)
- Godless Chatter (1 Tim. 6:20, 2 Tim. 2:16)
- Flattery
Angry talk, quarreling and slander are both common and closely related.
Years ago, coarse joking and obscenities were something that sometimes took place in smoke filled rooms out of the range of women and children. Now, such things are on television even during what used to be called "the family hour" and are difficult to get away from. Characters in sitcoms have no compunction about referring to p*rnography as if were a normal, healthy past time. Take a look at the atmosphere you are immersed in during the next 6 weeks of Lent, and be aware of this, unfortunately, very common sin.
Blasphemy is another common phenomenon these days. Making light of the One God is fair game in many circles, but it is a sin.
I liked the definition I found of boasting -- self-centered talk. Distortion of the truth involves mixing the false with the true in order to gain something that we want. How many of us use these tactics in life to get by or get ahead? Godless chatter is another very common one, I think. It involves empty, misleading, babbling.
Our last sin of the tongue to avoid this Lent, is the sin of flattery. Flattery is a sin!? Yep. Flattery is a sin when it is used for our own gain, or is untrue.
This puts me in mind of the monastic tradition of silence. Sometimes it is good to maintain exterior silence, for the good of our own souls and those around us.
So, there is plenty to fast from during Lent, and for the rest of our lives.
Have a Holy Lent
This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. The central spiritual practice of Lent is fasting. Byzantines.net tells us that there are 2 types of fasting.
Corporal Fasting
First, we have Corporal, or External Fasting. This is the familiar giving up of certain foods or food groups that many people do for Lent. In the Western Church we are to refrain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, and all the Fridays of Lent. Additionally, on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, we are to eat no more than one full meal and 2 smaller meals. There are those Eastern Christians who give up animal products, oil and wine for the entire Lenten season.
Also included in Corporal Fasting is the idea of "fasting from amusements." This was thought to be very important by the early Church Fathers. In our modern culture, where we are never without "amusements" at the touch of a button, perhaps we should re-examine this aspect of Corporal fasting. When we turn off the outside entertainment that is literally all around us now, what is left in our minds and souls?
Spiritual Fasting
The other type of fasting is Spiritual or Internal Fasting, which involves, basically, fasting from all types of sin. Lest you think that would be unnecessary or too easy, take a look at this list of sins of the tongue from scripture. (Hat tip to this web page.)
Angry talk, quarreling and slander are both common and closely related.
Years ago, coarse joking and obscenities were something that sometimes took place in smoke filled rooms out of the range of women and children. Now, such things are on television even during what used to be called "the family hour" and are difficult to get away from. Characters in sitcoms have no compunction about referring to p*rnography as if were a normal, healthy past time. Take a look at the atmosphere you are immersed in during the next 6 weeks of Lent, and be aware of this, unfortunately, very common sin.
Blasphemy is another common phenomenon these days. Making light of the One God is fair game in many circles, but it is a sin.
I liked the definition I found of boasting -- self-centered talk. Distortion of the truth involves mixing the false with the true in order to gain something that we want. How many of us use these tactics in life to get by or get ahead? Godless chatter is another very common one, I think. It involves empty, misleading, babbling.
Our last sin of the tongue to avoid this Lent, is the sin of flattery. Flattery is a sin!? Yep. Flattery is a sin when it is used for our own gain, or is untrue.
This puts me in mind of the monastic tradition of silence. Sometimes it is good to maintain exterior silence, for the good of our own souls and those around us.
So, there is plenty to fast from during Lent, and for the rest of our lives.
Corporal Fasting
First, we have Corporal, or External Fasting. This is the familiar giving up of certain foods or food groups that many people do for Lent. In the Western Church we are to refrain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday, and all the Fridays of Lent. Additionally, on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, we are to eat no more than one full meal and 2 smaller meals. There are those Eastern Christians who give up animal products, oil and wine for the entire Lenten season.
Also included in Corporal Fasting is the idea of "fasting from amusements." This was thought to be very important by the early Church Fathers. In our modern culture, where we are never without "amusements" at the touch of a button, perhaps we should re-examine this aspect of Corporal fasting. When we turn off the outside entertainment that is literally all around us now, what is left in our minds and souls?
Spiritual Fasting
The other type of fasting is Spiritual or Internal Fasting, which involves, basically, fasting from all types of sin. Lest you think that would be unnecessary or too easy, take a look at this list of sins of the tongue from scripture. (Hat tip to this web page.)
- Gossip( 2 Cor. 12:20, 1 Tim. 5:13)
- Lying (Acts 5:4, Col. 3:9)
- Angry Talk (2 Cor. 12:20, Col. 3:8)
- Quarreling (1 Cor. 3:3, 2 Tim. 2:23-24)
- Slander (Eph 4:31, James 4:11)
- Coarse Joking (Eph. 5:4)
- Obscenity (Eph. 5:4, Col. 3:8)
- Blasphemy (1 Tim 1:20, 6:1)
- Boasting (2 Tim., 3:2, James 4:16)
- Distortion of the Truth (2 Cor. 2-17, 4:2)
- Godless Chatter (1 Tim. 6:20, 2 Tim. 2:16)
- Flattery
Angry talk, quarreling and slander are both common and closely related.
Years ago, coarse joking and obscenities were something that sometimes took place in smoke filled rooms out of the range of women and children. Now, such things are on television even during what used to be called "the family hour" and are difficult to get away from. Characters in sitcoms have no compunction about referring to p*rnography as if were a normal, healthy past time. Take a look at the atmosphere you are immersed in during the next 6 weeks of Lent, and be aware of this, unfortunately, very common sin.
Blasphemy is another common phenomenon these days. Making light of the One God is fair game in many circles, but it is a sin.
I liked the definition I found of boasting -- self-centered talk. Distortion of the truth involves mixing the false with the true in order to gain something that we want. How many of us use these tactics in life to get by or get ahead? Godless chatter is another very common one, I think. It involves empty, misleading, babbling.
Our last sin of the tongue to avoid this Lent, is the sin of flattery. Flattery is a sin!? Yep. Flattery is a sin when it is used for our own gain, or is untrue.
This puts me in mind of the monastic tradition of silence. Sometimes it is good to maintain exterior silence, for the good of our own souls and those around us.
So, there is plenty to fast from during Lent, and for the rest of our lives.
How to Visit the Dying
As a follow up to my post about grieving, David (the author of the original) has another great article on How to Visit the Dying.
1. Drop everything and go.
2. Just be there.
3. Take the lowest seat--don't try to be the center of attention.
4. Don't take things personally. The last thing the family is concerned about is your feelings.
5. Don't speak.
6. Don't be afraid of your emotions.
7. Reach out and touch someone.
8. If you bring something, let it be practical.
9. If you have the privilege of being in the room when the person dies, realize you are experiencing one of the most profound moments ever.
10. Only read scripture, or pray if you are asked.
1. Drop everything and go.
2. Just be there.
3. Take the lowest seat--don't try to be the center of attention.
4. Don't take things personally. The last thing the family is concerned about is your feelings.
5. Don't speak.
6. Don't be afraid of your emotions.
7. Reach out and touch someone.
8. If you bring something, let it be practical.
9. If you have the privilege of being in the room when the person dies, realize you are experiencing one of the most profound moments ever.
10. Only read scripture, or pray if you are asked.
How to Visit the Dying
As a follow up to my post about grieving, David (the author of the original) has another great article on How to Visit the Dying.
1. Drop everything and go.
2. Just be there.
3. Take the lowest seat--don't try to be the center of attention.
4. Don't take things personally. The last thing the family is concerned about is your feelings.
5. Don't speak.
6. Don't be afraid of your emotions.
7. Reach out and touch someone.
8. If you bring something, let it be practical.
9. If you have the privilege of being in the room when the person dies, realize you are experiencing one of the most profound moments ever.
10. Only read scripture, or pray if you are asked.
1. Drop everything and go.
2. Just be there.
3. Take the lowest seat--don't try to be the center of attention.
4. Don't take things personally. The last thing the family is concerned about is your feelings.
5. Don't speak.
6. Don't be afraid of your emotions.
7. Reach out and touch someone.
8. If you bring something, let it be practical.
9. If you have the privilege of being in the room when the person dies, realize you are experiencing one of the most profound moments ever.
10. Only read scripture, or pray if you are asked.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Oh, this modern technology!
There are times in all our modern lives when we rue the day we ever were introduced to the computer. Was it like that when the last great communication techology was introduced?
Hat tip to the Ironic Catholic.
Hat tip to the Ironic Catholic.
Oh, this modern technology!
There are times in all our modern lives when we rue the day we ever were introduced to the computer. Was it like that when the last great communication techology was introduced?
Hat tip to the Ironic Catholic.
Hat tip to the Ironic Catholic.
The year you were born
| In 1961 (the year you were born) |
 John F. Kennedy becomes president of the US An estimated 1200 anti-Castro exiles aided by the US make a failed invasion of Cuba's Bay of Pigs Navy Cmdr. Alan B. Shepard Jr. becomes the first US spaceman rocketing 118 miles above the earth Hurricane "Carla" wipes out Texas gulf cities, claiming 46 lives Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin makes the first manned space flight Wayne Gretzky, Henry Rollins, Fabio, George Clooney, Dennis Rodman, and Diana, Princess of Wales are born New York Yankees win the World series Green Bay Packers win the NFL championship Chicago Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup Disney's One Hundred and One Dalmatians is the top grossing film Catch-22 by Joseph Heller is published The Miracles' "Shop Around" becomes Motown's first million-selling single |
The year you were born
| In 1961 (the year you were born) |
John F. Kennedy becomes president of the US An estimated 1200 anti-Castro exiles aided by the US make a failed invasion of Cuba's Bay of Pigs Navy Cmdr. Alan B. Shepard Jr. becomes the first US spaceman rocketing 118 miles above the earth Hurricane "Carla" wipes out Texas gulf cities, claiming 46 lives Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin makes the first manned space flight Wayne Gretzky, Henry Rollins, Fabio, George Clooney, Dennis Rodman, and Diana, Princess of Wales are born New York Yankees win the World series Green Bay Packers win the NFL championship Chicago Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup Disney's One Hundred and One Dalmatians is the top grossing film Catch-22 by Joseph Heller is published The Miracles' "Shop Around" becomes Motown's first million-selling single |
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Happy Saint Valentine's Day
Saint Valentino was a Roman priest who performed weddings in spite of the Emperor Claudius' outlawing of marriage for Roman soldiers. He was martyred in the year 270.
The customs associated with Saint Valentine's Day come from various sources and intertwine nicely. For example, besides being St. Valentine's Day, it was believed that half way through the month of February is the time when birds choose their mates. The color red is the color of martyrs, and is also associated with love. In Greek mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, and is portrayed as a small cherub who shoots love, represented by arrows, into people's hearts.
Interestingly, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is often shown with the wound from the soldier's sword that pierced it and the Immaculate Heart of Mary is often illustrated with the sword(s) of her "seven sorrows" piercing her heart, fulfilling Simeon's prophesy, "Thine own soul, a sword shall pierce."
For Catholics, Saint Valentine's Day should not be a mere "Hallmark Holiday" but a time to reflect on the great love that Christ has for us and the many gifts He has given us. How can we give back?
During the upcoming Lenten season, use the Church's recommendation for fasting, prayer and almsgiving to give back to Jesus, who loves you so much.
Hat tip to Fish Eaters for the wealth of info on Saint Valentine's Day.
The customs associated with Saint Valentine's Day come from various sources and intertwine nicely. For example, besides being St. Valentine's Day, it was believed that half way through the month of February is the time when birds choose their mates. The color red is the color of martyrs, and is also associated with love. In Greek mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, and is portrayed as a small cherub who shoots love, represented by arrows, into people's hearts.
Interestingly, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is often shown with the wound from the soldier's sword that pierced it and the Immaculate Heart of Mary is often illustrated with the sword(s) of her "seven sorrows" piercing her heart, fulfilling Simeon's prophesy, "Thine own soul, a sword shall pierce."
For Catholics, Saint Valentine's Day should not be a mere "Hallmark Holiday" but a time to reflect on the great love that Christ has for us and the many gifts He has given us. How can we give back?
During the upcoming Lenten season, use the Church's recommendation for fasting, prayer and almsgiving to give back to Jesus, who loves you so much.
Hat tip to Fish Eaters for the wealth of info on Saint Valentine's Day.
Happy Saint Valentine's Day
Saint Valentino was a Roman priest who performed weddings in spite of the Emperor Claudius' outlawing of marriage for Roman soldiers. He was martyred in the year 270.
The customs associated with Saint Valentine's Day come from various sources and intertwine nicely. For example, besides being St. Valentine's Day, it was believed that half way through the month of February is the time when birds choose their mates. The color red is the color of martyrs, and is also associated with love. In Greek mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, and is portrayed as a small cherub who shoots love, represented by arrows, into people's hearts.
Interestingly, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is often shown with the wound from the soldier's sword that pierced it and the Immaculate Heart of Mary is often illustrated with the sword(s) of her "seven sorrows" piercing her heart, fulfilling Simeon's prophesy, "Thine own soul, a sword shall pierce."
For Catholics, Saint Valentine's Day should not be a mere "Hallmark Holiday" but a time to reflect on the great love that Christ has for us and the many gifts He has given us. How can we give back?
During the upcoming Lenten season, use the Church's recommendation for fasting, prayer and almsgiving to give back to Jesus, who loves you so much.
Hat tip to Fish Eaters for the wealth of info on Saint Valentine's Day.
The customs associated with Saint Valentine's Day come from various sources and intertwine nicely. For example, besides being St. Valentine's Day, it was believed that half way through the month of February is the time when birds choose their mates. The color red is the color of martyrs, and is also associated with love. In Greek mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, and is portrayed as a small cherub who shoots love, represented by arrows, into people's hearts.
Interestingly, the Sacred Heart of Jesus is often shown with the wound from the soldier's sword that pierced it and the Immaculate Heart of Mary is often illustrated with the sword(s) of her "seven sorrows" piercing her heart, fulfilling Simeon's prophesy, "Thine own soul, a sword shall pierce."
For Catholics, Saint Valentine's Day should not be a mere "Hallmark Holiday" but a time to reflect on the great love that Christ has for us and the many gifts He has given us. How can we give back?
During the upcoming Lenten season, use the Church's recommendation for fasting, prayer and almsgiving to give back to Jesus, who loves you so much.
Hat tip to Fish Eaters for the wealth of info on Saint Valentine's Day.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Thought for the Day
Pain is just the alarm system letting me know I'm still alive.
~Fr. Benedict Groeschel
Thought for the Day
Pain is just the alarm system letting me know I'm still alive.
~Fr. Benedict Groeschel
World Day of the Sick
Today is the 15th Annual World Day of the Sick. Pope Benedict has dedicated this day to all who are sick, especially those with terminal illnesses.
Prayer for the Sick
(From the Catholic Community Forum)
Dear Jesus, Divine Physician and Healer of the sick,
we turn to you in this time of illness.
O dearest comforter of the troubled,
alleviate our worry and sorrow with your gentle love,
and grant us the grace and strength to accept this burden.
Dear God, we place our worries in your hands.
We place our sick under your care and humbly ask that you
restore your servant to health again.
Above all, grant us the grace to acknowledge your will
and know that whatever you do,
you do for the love of us.
~Amen.
World Day of the Sick
Today is the 15th Annual World Day of the Sick. Pope Benedict has dedicated this day to all who are sick, especially those with terminal illnesses.
Prayer for the Sick
(From the Catholic Community Forum)
Dear Jesus, Divine Physician and Healer of the sick,
we turn to you in this time of illness.
O dearest comforter of the troubled,
alleviate our worry and sorrow with your gentle love,
and grant us the grace and strength to accept this burden.
Dear God, we place our worries in your hands.
We place our sick under your care and humbly ask that you
restore your servant to health again.
Above all, grant us the grace to acknowledge your will
and know that whatever you do,
you do for the love of us.
~Amen.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Thought for the Day
No one is to be called an enemy,
all are your benefactors,
and no one does you harm.
You have no enemy except yourselves.
~St Francis
all are your benefactors,
and no one does you harm.
You have no enemy except yourselves.
~St Francis
Thought for the Day
No one is to be called an enemy,
all are your benefactors,
and no one does you harm.
You have no enemy except yourselves.
~St Francis
all are your benefactors,
and no one does you harm.
You have no enemy except yourselves.
~St Francis
Our Lady of Lourdes
Tomorrow is the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. From February 11, to July 16, 1858 Our Lady appeared eighteen times to 14 year old Bernadette Soubiroux in Lourdes, France.At first incredulous, the local clergy asked her to ask the lady her name in order to prove who she was. Our Lady told Bernadette that "I am the Immaculate Conception". Although Bernadette was unfamiliar with that term, Pope Pius IX had declared it a doctrine of the church four years prior.
Our Lady instructed Bernadette to dig on the site and a stream of water appeared which continues to this day. Many come to Lourdes each year and pray for healing.
Lourdes has an official website where you can go and post an intention, which will be placed at the Grotto. (Note: I linked to the English language version.)
There is also a webcam at the Grotto which refreshes every 3 minutes.
For those of you closer to the east coast of the U.S., Mount Saint Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, has a reproduction of the Grotto of Lourdes, complete with an outdoor stations of the cross and a rosary walk as well as Mass in their glass-enclosed chapel.
There is also a stream which runs through the grotto area. Many people bring water bottles to fill when they visit. It is an excellent place to go to pray and be silent with God.
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for our healing!
Our Lady of Lourdes
Tomorrow is the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. From February 11, to July 16, 1858 Our Lady appeared eighteen times to 14 year old Bernadette Soubiroux in Lourdes, France.At first incredulous, the local clergy asked her to ask the lady her name in order to prove who she was. Our Lady told Bernadette that "I am the Immaculate Conception". Although Bernadette was unfamiliar with that term, Pope Pius IX had declared it a doctrine of the church four years prior.
Our Lady instructed Bernadette to dig on the site and a stream of water appeared which continues to this day. Many come to Lourdes each year and pray for healing.
Lourdes has an official website where you can go and post an intention, which will be placed at the Grotto. (Note: I linked to the English language version.)
There is also a webcam at the Grotto which refreshes every 3 minutes.
For those of you closer to the east coast of the U.S., Mount Saint Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, has a reproduction of the Grotto of Lourdes, complete with an outdoor stations of the cross and a rosary walk as well as Mass in their glass-enclosed chapel.
There is also a stream which runs through the grotto area. Many people bring water bottles to fill when they visit. It is an excellent place to go to pray and be silent with God.
Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for our healing!
Friday, February 9, 2007
How to be with those who grieve
Someone on one of the forums I frequent posted about this list. The original is here.
How to be with those who grieve
1. Be there.
2. Shut up.
3. Be Yourself
4. Don't stay long.
5. Get physical.
6. Listen.
7. Grieve with them.
8. Don't be shocked.
9. Comfort.
10. Be practical.
11. Be patient.
What jumped out at me, from the original commentary, was the idea of just showing up, being yourself and letting things happen as they happen. In other words, LET GO. Admit you have no control over the situation. This is SO hard. I look down that list and realize that there is maybe, only one or two of those things that seem to come somewhat naturally to me. With the rest, I feel a bundle of ineffectiveness.
How to be with those who grieve
1. Be there.
2. Shut up.
3. Be Yourself
4. Don't stay long.
5. Get physical.
6. Listen.
7. Grieve with them.
8. Don't be shocked.
9. Comfort.
10. Be practical.
11. Be patient.
What jumped out at me, from the original commentary, was the idea of just showing up, being yourself and letting things happen as they happen. In other words, LET GO. Admit you have no control over the situation. This is SO hard. I look down that list and realize that there is maybe, only one or two of those things that seem to come somewhat naturally to me. With the rest, I feel a bundle of ineffectiveness.
How to be with those who grieve
Someone on one of the forums I frequent posted about this list. The original is here.
How to be with those who grieve
1. Be there.
2. Shut up.
3. Be Yourself
4. Don't stay long.
5. Get physical.
6. Listen.
7. Grieve with them.
8. Don't be shocked.
9. Comfort.
10. Be practical.
11. Be patient.
What jumped out at me, from the original commentary, was the idea of just showing up, being yourself and letting things happen as they happen. In other words, LET GO. Admit you have no control over the situation. This is SO hard. I look down that list and realize that there is maybe, only one or two of those things that seem to come somewhat naturally to me. With the rest, I feel a bundle of ineffectiveness.
How to be with those who grieve
1. Be there.
2. Shut up.
3. Be Yourself
4. Don't stay long.
5. Get physical.
6. Listen.
7. Grieve with them.
8. Don't be shocked.
9. Comfort.
10. Be practical.
11. Be patient.
What jumped out at me, from the original commentary, was the idea of just showing up, being yourself and letting things happen as they happen. In other words, LET GO. Admit you have no control over the situation. This is SO hard. I look down that list and realize that there is maybe, only one or two of those things that seem to come somewhat naturally to me. With the rest, I feel a bundle of ineffectiveness.
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Dying to Self
Dying to self is such an important concept in Christianity that Christ, even though He was sinless, modeled it for us. Dying to self can be seen reflected in the idea of detachment. The goal of the Christian is not complete detachment from everything, but only from those things that hinder our attainment of heaven. Detachment is not done because all is not real, not created, or even evil. Detachment is done because there is much on this earth that is not necessary, not helpful, and certainly, not in our control.
As we empty our hearts of extraneous "junk", we should invite God to fill them. The only thing that is sure in this life, besides our journey to the next life, is God. Everything else passes away.
Dying to self is living for Christ. It is giving your life to the only One who *can* control it--God.
Hat tip to Angela Messenger.
As we empty our hearts of extraneous "junk", we should invite God to fill them. The only thing that is sure in this life, besides our journey to the next life, is God. Everything else passes away.
Dying to self is living for Christ. It is giving your life to the only One who *can* control it--God.
Hat tip to Angela Messenger.
When you are forgotten or neglected and you don't hurt with the insult, but your heart is happy...that is dying to self.
When your advice is disregarded, your opinions ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, and take it all in patient, loving silence...that is dying to self.
When you lovingly and patiently bear disorder, irregularity, impunctuality and annoyance and endure it as Jesus endured it...that is dying to self.
When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation or record your own good works, or itch for praise after an accomplishment, when you can truly love to be unknown...that is dying to self.
When you can see your brother or sister prosper and can honestly rejoice with him, and feel no envy even though your needs are greater...that is dying to self.
When you are content with any food, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society...that is dying to self.
When you can take correction, when you can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, with no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart...that is dying to self.
Dying to Self
Dying to self is such an important concept in Christianity that Christ, even though He was sinless, modeled it for us. Dying to self can be seen reflected in the idea of detachment. The goal of the Christian is not complete detachment from everything, but only from those things that hinder our attainment of heaven. Detachment is not done because all is not real, not created, or even evil. Detachment is done because there is much on this earth that is not necessary, not helpful, and certainly, not in our control.
As we empty our hearts of extraneous "junk", we should invite God to fill them. The only thing that is sure in this life, besides our journey to the next life, is God. Everything else passes away.
Dying to self is living for Christ. It is giving your life to the only One who *can* control it--God.
Hat tip to Angela Messenger.
As we empty our hearts of extraneous "junk", we should invite God to fill them. The only thing that is sure in this life, besides our journey to the next life, is God. Everything else passes away.
Dying to self is living for Christ. It is giving your life to the only One who *can* control it--God.
Hat tip to Angela Messenger.
When you are forgotten or neglected and you don't hurt with the insult, but your heart is happy...that is dying to self.
When your advice is disregarded, your opinions ridiculed, and you refuse to let anger rise in your heart, and take it all in patient, loving silence...that is dying to self.
When you lovingly and patiently bear disorder, irregularity, impunctuality and annoyance and endure it as Jesus endured it...that is dying to self.
When you never care to refer to yourself in conversation or record your own good works, or itch for praise after an accomplishment, when you can truly love to be unknown...that is dying to self.
When you can see your brother or sister prosper and can honestly rejoice with him, and feel no envy even though your needs are greater...that is dying to self.
When you are content with any food, any offering, any raiment, any climate, any society...that is dying to self.
When you can take correction, when you can humbly submit inwardly as well as outwardly, with no rebellion or resentment rising up within your heart...that is dying to self.
China bans pig image
I heard this on the radio this morning and looked up the story on the net as soon as I could. It continues to surprise me. This year (beginning on February 18) is the year of the pig in China. As such, the pig is a natural choice for ad campaigns of various kinds. The Chinese government, however, has banned the use of the pig--its likeness in pictures, cartoons, traditional paper cut images, and even slogans, to avoid offending the nation's Muslims.
This surprises me for a number of reasons. China is a communist country. I didn't think that communism officially bowed under pressure from minority groups--especially religious minorities. In fact, religious persecution persists in China, especially against Christians in general and Catholics in particular. I guess the government there doesn't loose sleep over whether or not their actions offend Christians.
I guess the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
This surprises me for a number of reasons. China is a communist country. I didn't think that communism officially bowed under pressure from minority groups--especially religious minorities. In fact, religious persecution persists in China, especially against Christians in general and Catholics in particular. I guess the government there doesn't loose sleep over whether or not their actions offend Christians.
I guess the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
China bans pig image
I heard this on the radio this morning and looked up the story on the net as soon as I could. It continues to surprise me. This year (beginning on February 18) is the year of the pig in China. As such, the pig is a natural choice for ad campaigns of various kinds. The Chinese government, however, has banned the use of the pig--its likeness in pictures, cartoons, traditional paper cut images, and even slogans, to avoid offending the nation's Muslims.
This surprises me for a number of reasons. China is a communist country. I didn't think that communism officially bowed under pressure from minority groups--especially religious minorities. In fact, religious persecution persists in China, especially against Christians in general and Catholics in particular. I guess the government there doesn't loose sleep over whether or not their actions offend Christians.
I guess the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
This surprises me for a number of reasons. China is a communist country. I didn't think that communism officially bowed under pressure from minority groups--especially religious minorities. In fact, religious persecution persists in China, especially against Christians in general and Catholics in particular. I guess the government there doesn't loose sleep over whether or not their actions offend Christians.
I guess the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Healing the pain
I came across a Christian Psychology page I had bookmarked long ago. I think the writing there stands on its own. It speaks powerfully about how to diffuse the understandable anger and rage that comes from abuse and other mistreatment.
They suggest kneeling before the crucified Lord and praying this prayer:
In psychology there is an axiom that anxiety and relaxation cannot both exist in a person at the same time; this fact has become the empirical basis for systematic desensitization, a procedure for treating phobias. The spiritual realm has a similar axiom: you cannot hate a person and pray for him at the same time. And so, if you train yourself to pray for the repentance and conversion of anyone who insults or offends you, then it becomes impossible to hate that person—and all of your primitive rage therefore dissolves.
They suggest kneeling before the crucified Lord and praying this prayer:
Lord, I am wounded. I hurt. I am helpless. I am broken. I am vulnerable. Nothing I can do by my own hand can protect me. Help me, for without your mercy and protection, I will perish. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. Help me to continue my work in your service despite the fact that I feel [betrayed, abandoned, unloved, insulted, falsely accused, etc.].
Healing the pain
I came across a Christian Psychology page I had bookmarked long ago. I think the writing there stands on its own. It speaks powerfully about how to diffuse the understandable anger and rage that comes from abuse and other mistreatment.
They suggest kneeling before the crucified Lord and praying this prayer:
In psychology there is an axiom that anxiety and relaxation cannot both exist in a person at the same time; this fact has become the empirical basis for systematic desensitization, a procedure for treating phobias. The spiritual realm has a similar axiom: you cannot hate a person and pray for him at the same time. And so, if you train yourself to pray for the repentance and conversion of anyone who insults or offends you, then it becomes impossible to hate that person—and all of your primitive rage therefore dissolves.
They suggest kneeling before the crucified Lord and praying this prayer:
Lord, I am wounded. I hurt. I am helpless. I am broken. I am vulnerable. Nothing I can do by my own hand can protect me. Help me, for without your mercy and protection, I will perish. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. Help me to continue my work in your service despite the fact that I feel [betrayed, abandoned, unloved, insulted, falsely accused, etc.].
What's New?
Just wanted to update everyone on the new Blogger and latest blog changes here at the Well.
The main one I wanted to point out is the Anxiety and Depression News over on the right hand side of the page. That is actually an RSS feed which connects directly to Insight Journal. I don't compose those headlines, nor do I write the stories. But if you click on the headlines in question, you can read the full stories there.
The new Blogger also allows you (or me, actually) to change the colors of the blog. For now, I'm sticking to various shades of green. I'm considering going purple for Lent, though. We'll see.
The main one I wanted to point out is the Anxiety and Depression News over on the right hand side of the page. That is actually an RSS feed which connects directly to Insight Journal. I don't compose those headlines, nor do I write the stories. But if you click on the headlines in question, you can read the full stories there.
The new Blogger also allows you (or me, actually) to change the colors of the blog. For now, I'm sticking to various shades of green. I'm considering going purple for Lent, though. We'll see.
What's New?
Just wanted to update everyone on the new Blogger and latest blog changes here at the Well.
The main one I wanted to point out is the Anxiety and Depression News over on the right hand side of the page. That is actually an RSS feed which connects directly to Insight Journal. I don't compose those headlines, nor do I write the stories. But if you click on the headlines in question, you can read the full stories there.
The new Blogger also allows you (or me, actually) to change the colors of the blog. For now, I'm sticking to various shades of green. I'm considering going purple for Lent, though. We'll see.
The main one I wanted to point out is the Anxiety and Depression News over on the right hand side of the page. That is actually an RSS feed which connects directly to Insight Journal. I don't compose those headlines, nor do I write the stories. But if you click on the headlines in question, you can read the full stories there.
The new Blogger also allows you (or me, actually) to change the colors of the blog. For now, I'm sticking to various shades of green. I'm considering going purple for Lent, though. We'll see.
Housekeeping Alphabet Meme
Angela Messenger has a housekeeping meme on her site.
Aprons – Y/N?
I don't think I own any aprons any more. My mom used to have a beautiful one with red roses on it. I did have one when I was first married that said, "For this I spent 4 years in college?" on it.
Baking – Favorite thing to bake:
I like baking my apple custard pie. I also bake Easter bread every year.
Clothesline – Y/N?
I've always had clothes lines. For quite a long time, it was the only way I dried clothes.
Donuts – Have you ever made them?
No. My grandmother made them for Shrove Tuesday, though.
One homemaking thing you do every day:
I second Angela on this one: Does flushing the toilet count?
Freezer – Do you have a separate deep freeze?
No.
Garbage Disposal – Y/N?
Another good quote from Angela: Well, I do have a dog....
Handbook – What is your favorite homemaking resource?
I do like my Betty Crocker cookbook. It has the basics in it that I never remember, like exactly how long to boil and egg so that it comes out hard boiled as opposed to soft boiled. Does anyone eat soft boiled eggs anymore?
Ironing – Love it or hate it?
Hate it. Hate it. Hate it.
Junk drawer – Y/N? Where is it?
My entire computer room is a junk drawer.
Kitchen: Design & Decorating?
Blue and yellow. Blue walls. Creamy yellow cabinets sponged with bright yellow on top.
Love: What is your favorite part of homemaking?
There's a favorite part of homemaking?!?
Mop - Y/N?
I dry mop my house because we are almost rug-free at this point. I have to wet mop the kitchen and bathroom. I eagerly await the day when I no longer have a WHITE kitchen floor. (What were the original owners thinking?!?)
Nylons - Wash by hand or in the washing machine?
By hand. But I try really hard not to wear them much anymore.
Oven - Do you use the window, or open the door to check?
Both.
Pizza - What do you put on yours?
Personally, I like the "boingy" things like mushrooms, olives, etc. Lots of cheese.
Quiet - What do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment?
Drink tea. Read. Do my blog.
Recipe card box - Y/N?
I actually have quite a few. Some of them were given to me by my late mil who was a fabulous cook.
Style of house -
Small rancher.
Tablecloths and napkins - Y/N?
I used to do table cloths when my table was square. Now that the dining room table I have is round and has tiles on the top, so I don't feel that I need a table cloth anymore.
Under the kitchen sink - Organized or toxic wasteland?
Definitely toxic waste.
Vacuum - How many times per week?
My almost rug-free house means I can mostly do mopping of one type or the other.
Wash - How many loads of laundry do you do a week?
About 3.
X's - Do you keep a daily list of things to do and cross them off?
I will often write my list either on my calendar in the kitchen, or on my phone.
Yard - Who does what?
DH says that is his thing.
Zzz's - What is your last homemaking task for the day before going to bed?
Brushing my teeth. I count that as personal housework.
Aprons – Y/N?
I don't think I own any aprons any more. My mom used to have a beautiful one with red roses on it. I did have one when I was first married that said, "For this I spent 4 years in college?" on it.
Baking – Favorite thing to bake:
I like baking my apple custard pie. I also bake Easter bread every year.
Clothesline – Y/N?
I've always had clothes lines. For quite a long time, it was the only way I dried clothes.
Donuts – Have you ever made them?
No. My grandmother made them for Shrove Tuesday, though.
One homemaking thing you do every day:
I second Angela on this one: Does flushing the toilet count?
Freezer – Do you have a separate deep freeze?
No.
Garbage Disposal – Y/N?
Another good quote from Angela: Well, I do have a dog....
Handbook – What is your favorite homemaking resource?
I do like my Betty Crocker cookbook. It has the basics in it that I never remember, like exactly how long to boil and egg so that it comes out hard boiled as opposed to soft boiled. Does anyone eat soft boiled eggs anymore?
Ironing – Love it or hate it?
Hate it. Hate it. Hate it.
Junk drawer – Y/N? Where is it?
My entire computer room is a junk drawer.
Kitchen: Design & Decorating?
Blue and yellow. Blue walls. Creamy yellow cabinets sponged with bright yellow on top.
Love: What is your favorite part of homemaking?
There's a favorite part of homemaking?!?
Mop - Y/N?
I dry mop my house because we are almost rug-free at this point. I have to wet mop the kitchen and bathroom. I eagerly await the day when I no longer have a WHITE kitchen floor. (What were the original owners thinking?!?)
Nylons - Wash by hand or in the washing machine?
By hand. But I try really hard not to wear them much anymore.
Oven - Do you use the window, or open the door to check?
Both.
Pizza - What do you put on yours?
Personally, I like the "boingy" things like mushrooms, olives, etc. Lots of cheese.
Quiet - What do you do during the day when you get a quiet moment?
Drink tea. Read. Do my blog.
Recipe card box - Y/N?
I actually have quite a few. Some of them were given to me by my late mil who was a fabulous cook.
Style of house -
Small rancher.
Tablecloths and napkins - Y/N?
I used to do table cloths when my table was square. Now that the dining room table I have is round and has tiles on the top, so I don't feel that I need a table cloth anymore.
Under the kitchen sink - Organized or toxic wasteland?
Definitely toxic waste.
Vacuum - How many times per week?
My almost rug-free house means I can mostly do mopping of one type or the other.
Wash - How many loads of laundry do you do a week?
About 3.
X's - Do you keep a daily list of things to do and cross them off?
I will often write my list either on my calendar in the kitchen, or on my phone.
Yard - Who does what?
DH says that is his thing.
Zzz's - What is your last homemaking task for the day before going to bed?
Brushing my teeth. I count that as personal housework.
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