September 29 is the feast of St. Michael and all Holy Angels. Saint Michael is a very powerful advocate in the fight against evil. The prayer to St. Michael, illustrated in the video below, is very affective against spiritual attack.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Happy Michaelmas
September 29 is the feast of St. Michael and all Holy Angels. Saint Michael is a very powerful advocate in the fight against evil. The prayer to St. Michael, illustrated in the video below, is very affective against spiritual attack.
What does God have to do with it?
I can't help but think that the current economic crisis we are in is in some way related to our materialistic, relativistic, culture-of-death, live-for-the-moment, constant-search-for-pleasure lifestyles. We have been brainwashed in this country, to believe that we will get, and indeed, deserve, something for nothing.
Stuff.
It's what makes the world go 'round. It is not even on the radar screens of most Americans that someone wouldn't (or *gasp*--shouldn't because they can't afford to) buy something they might want.
Oh, sorry, need. We need all this stuff.
An increasing number of Americans are either actual or de facto atheists, living as if, (if not actually professing that) there is nothing beyond this short 70 or so years we each have on this earth. It is no wonder, then, that we are in our current economic fix.
We can't even imagine there would be any alternative than to keep printing money and bailing out financial institutions whose only fault is that they gave credit to people who couldn't pay back their loans.
Because we all have to have more stuff.
Most of us no longer question that the sole purpose of a business (or even a "job") is to "make money."
Profit.
That is all.
Why, what else would there be?!
The idea of providing a true service to society, much less having an actual vocation or calling to do something particular for a living, is beyond the scope of many in modern society. Such attitudes lead to unfair treatment of workers, cheating one's customers, and increasing blindness to ethical business practices. Good workers lose their jobs because they are too expensive to retain. Loyalty and job performance take second place to the bottom line.
I honestly don't think most people can wrap their minds around the idea that the true purpose of commerce might just be to serve the public--prospective customers, employees and society at large. Nor does the necessity of sacrifice cross the minds of most of us when it comes to doing our jobs. (Yes, even *that* job. Even the job that you feel is debasing, demeaning, or difficult, or, God forbid, boring.)
When there is nothing beyond our own eyes and brains, our world is limited to ourselves.
The current state of our economy and our country is the result.
Like the ruins of an old grave, the Judeo Christian worldview is collapsing. We just may be witnessing the advent of a new Dark Ages, where our old ways of looking at ourselves in relation to each other and to our Creator are all but forgotten.
Pope Benedict XVI has said that he sees Christianity as being smaller but more authentic in the future. I think we are on the cusp of that future today.
Stuff.
It's what makes the world go 'round. It is not even on the radar screens of most Americans that someone wouldn't (or *gasp*--shouldn't because they can't afford to) buy something they might want.
Oh, sorry, need. We need all this stuff.
An increasing number of Americans are either actual or de facto atheists, living as if, (if not actually professing that) there is nothing beyond this short 70 or so years we each have on this earth. It is no wonder, then, that we are in our current economic fix.
We can't even imagine there would be any alternative than to keep printing money and bailing out financial institutions whose only fault is that they gave credit to people who couldn't pay back their loans.
Because we all have to have more stuff.
Most of us no longer question that the sole purpose of a business (or even a "job") is to "make money."
Profit.
That is all.
Why, what else would there be?!
The idea of providing a true service to society, much less having an actual vocation or calling to do something particular for a living, is beyond the scope of many in modern society. Such attitudes lead to unfair treatment of workers, cheating one's customers, and increasing blindness to ethical business practices. Good workers lose their jobs because they are too expensive to retain. Loyalty and job performance take second place to the bottom line.
I honestly don't think most people can wrap their minds around the idea that the true purpose of commerce might just be to serve the public--prospective customers, employees and society at large. Nor does the necessity of sacrifice cross the minds of most of us when it comes to doing our jobs. (Yes, even *that* job. Even the job that you feel is debasing, demeaning, or difficult, or, God forbid, boring.)
When there is nothing beyond our own eyes and brains, our world is limited to ourselves.
The current state of our economy and our country is the result.
Like the ruins of an old grave, the Judeo Christian worldview is collapsing. We just may be witnessing the advent of a new Dark Ages, where our old ways of looking at ourselves in relation to each other and to our Creator are all but forgotten.
Pope Benedict XVI has said that he sees Christianity as being smaller but more authentic in the future. I think we are on the cusp of that future today.
What does God have to do with it?
I can't help but think that the current economic crisis we are in is in some way related to our materialistic, relativistic, culture-of-death, live-for-the-moment, constant-search-for-pleasure lifestyles. We have been brainwashed in this country, to believe that we will get, and indeed, deserve, something for nothing.
Stuff.
It's what makes the world go 'round. It is not even on the radar screens of most Americans that someone wouldn't (or *gasp*--shouldn't because they can't afford to) buy something they might want.
Oh, sorry, need. We need all this stuff.
An increasing number of Americans are either actual or de facto atheists, living as if, (if not actually professing that) there is nothing beyond this short 70 or so years we each have on this earth. It is no wonder, then, that we are in our current economic fix.
We can't even imagine there would be any alternative than to keep printing money and bailing out financial institutions whose only fault is that they gave credit to people who couldn't pay back their loans.
Because we all have to have more stuff.
Most of us no longer question that the sole purpose of a business (or even a "job") is to "make money."
Profit.
That is all.
Why, what else would there be?!
The idea of providing a true service to society, much less having an actual vocation or calling to do something particular for a living, is beyond the scope of many in modern society. Such attitudes lead to unfair treatment of workers, cheating one's customers, and increasing blindness to ethical business practices. Good workers lose their jobs because they are too expensive to retain. Loyalty and job performance take second place to the bottom line.
I honestly don't think most people can wrap their minds around the idea that the true purpose of commerce might just be to serve the public--prospective customers, employees and society at large. Nor does the necessity of sacrifice cross the minds of most of us when it comes to doing our jobs. (Yes, even *that* job. Even the job that you feel is debasing, demeaning, or difficult, or, God forbid, boring.)
When there is nothing beyond our own eyes and brains, our world is limited to ourselves.
The current state of our economy and our country is the result.
Like the ruins of an old grave, the Judeo Christian worldview is collapsing. We just may be witnessing the advent of a new Dark Ages, where our old ways of looking at ourselves in relation to each other and to our Creator are all but forgotten.
Pope Benedict XVI has said that he sees Christianity as being smaller but more authentic in the future. I think we are on the cusp of that future today.
Stuff.
It's what makes the world go 'round. It is not even on the radar screens of most Americans that someone wouldn't (or *gasp*--shouldn't because they can't afford to) buy something they might want.
Oh, sorry, need. We need all this stuff.
An increasing number of Americans are either actual or de facto atheists, living as if, (if not actually professing that) there is nothing beyond this short 70 or so years we each have on this earth. It is no wonder, then, that we are in our current economic fix.
We can't even imagine there would be any alternative than to keep printing money and bailing out financial institutions whose only fault is that they gave credit to people who couldn't pay back their loans.
Because we all have to have more stuff.
Most of us no longer question that the sole purpose of a business (or even a "job") is to "make money."
Profit.
That is all.
Why, what else would there be?!
The idea of providing a true service to society, much less having an actual vocation or calling to do something particular for a living, is beyond the scope of many in modern society. Such attitudes lead to unfair treatment of workers, cheating one's customers, and increasing blindness to ethical business practices. Good workers lose their jobs because they are too expensive to retain. Loyalty and job performance take second place to the bottom line.
I honestly don't think most people can wrap their minds around the idea that the true purpose of commerce might just be to serve the public--prospective customers, employees and society at large. Nor does the necessity of sacrifice cross the minds of most of us when it comes to doing our jobs. (Yes, even *that* job. Even the job that you feel is debasing, demeaning, or difficult, or, God forbid, boring.)
When there is nothing beyond our own eyes and brains, our world is limited to ourselves.
The current state of our economy and our country is the result.
Like the ruins of an old grave, the Judeo Christian worldview is collapsing. We just may be witnessing the advent of a new Dark Ages, where our old ways of looking at ourselves in relation to each other and to our Creator are all but forgotten.
Pope Benedict XVI has said that he sees Christianity as being smaller but more authentic in the future. I think we are on the cusp of that future today.
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Nine (Monday)
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day NineMost holy angels, you whose zeal for the interests of God, wherever they need to be defended, carries you through the universe more rapidly than lightning, protect His cause in our souls and in virtue of the Divine Blood, obtain for us the signal grace of final perseverance.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Nine (Monday)
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day NineMost holy angels, you whose zeal for the interests of God, wherever they need to be defended, carries you through the universe more rapidly than lightning, protect His cause in our souls and in virtue of the Divine Blood, obtain for us the signal grace of final perseverance.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Eight
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day EightMost noble Archangels, you who under the command of St. Michael, guard and protect the Holy Church, deign to deliver her from internal and external enemies. Watch over the Holy Father, as well as over all the children of the Immaculate Spouse of Christ and in virtue of the Divine Blood obtain for us the grace to live and die in the Faith, Hope and Charity of Holy Church so that we may be eternally united with its august head, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Eight
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day EightMost noble Archangels, you who under the command of St. Michael, guard and protect the Holy Church, deign to deliver her from internal and external enemies. Watch over the Holy Father, as well as over all the children of the Immaculate Spouse of Christ and in virtue of the Divine Blood obtain for us the grace to live and die in the Faith, Hope and Charity of Holy Church so that we may be eternally united with its august head, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Seven
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Seven
Sovereign Principalities, you who are the princes of nations, we beseech you to guard our country effectively, that it may realize God's designs in its regard. Govern our souls and our bodies, and, in virtue of the Divine Blood, guide us that we may attain eternal life.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Seven
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Seven
Sovereign Principalities, you who are the princes of nations, we beseech you to guard our country effectively, that it may realize God's designs in its regard. Govern our souls and our bodies, and, in virtue of the Divine Blood, guide us that we may attain eternal life.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Friday, September 26, 2008
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Six
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Six
Heavenly Virtues, who watch over the harmony of material creation, you whose name signifies "strength", have pity on us in our weakness, and obtain for us, in virtue of the Divine Blood, the grace to bear with patience, the trials of this life.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Six
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Six
Heavenly Virtues, who watch over the harmony of material creation, you whose name signifies "strength", have pity on us in our weakness, and obtain for us, in virtue of the Divine Blood, the grace to bear with patience, the trials of this life.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Thursday, September 25, 2008
In the Mood for Fred Astaire Friday
Just when I think I will quit Fred Astaire Fridays, I find another great video!
This is a fan video of Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth dancing to Glenn Miller's "In the Mood"! Unbeatable music. Unbeatable dancing.
This is a fan video of Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth dancing to Glenn Miller's "In the Mood"! Unbeatable music. Unbeatable dancing.
In the Mood for Fred Astaire Friday
Just when I think I will quit Fred Astaire Fridays, I find another great video!
This is a fan video of Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth dancing to Glenn Miller's "In the Mood"! Unbeatable music. Unbeatable dancing.
This is a fan video of Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth dancing to Glenn Miller's "In the Mood"! Unbeatable music. Unbeatable dancing.
Important Mental Health Insurance Parity Bill Passed!
A landmark bill was approved by Congress yesterday requiring private insurers to cover mental illnesses equally with those that are deemed physical. Even without debating the necessity of health care coverage from the standpoint of basic human rights, recent research has pointed increasingly to *physical* causes for many mental illnesses, and, therefore, it is only logical that they be covered the same as other diseases.
Mental health insurance parity would greatly improve the lives of many, many people who struggle daily with mental illness as well as their families.
The bill was sponsored by Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), and Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-Minn.), both of whom have struggled with addictions.
Please urge the president to sign this bill into law.
Hat tip to our roving reporter, MK.
Important Mental Health Insurance Parity Bill Passed!
A landmark bill was approved by Congress yesterday requiring private insurers to cover mental illnesses equally with those that are deemed physical. Even without debating the necessity of health care coverage from the standpoint of basic human rights, recent research has pointed increasingly to *physical* causes for many mental illnesses, and, therefore, it is only logical that they be covered the same as other diseases.
Mental health insurance parity would greatly improve the lives of many, many people who struggle daily with mental illness as well as their families.
The bill was sponsored by Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy (D-R.I.), and Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-Minn.), both of whom have struggled with addictions.
Please urge the president to sign this bill into law.
Hat tip to our roving reporter, MK.
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Five
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day FiveInvincible Powers, whose mission it is to remove obstacles to the Divine Will and to overcome its enemies, defend us against the attacks of the world, the flesh and the devil, and in virtue of the Divine Blood, render us victorious in our combats against this triple power.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Five
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day FiveInvincible Powers, whose mission it is to remove obstacles to the Divine Will and to overcome its enemies, defend us against the attacks of the world, the flesh and the devil, and in virtue of the Divine Blood, render us victorious in our combats against this triple power.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Historic News from the U.K.
In an unprecedented move, the U.K. is set to abolish a 300 year old rule and allow Catholics to ascend to the throne of England. As it currently stands, Catholics are not allowed to rule Great Britain, but under a proposal being drawn up by Downing Street, people in line to be king or queen will no longer be disqualified merely because of their Catholicism.
In another historic change, women will now be able to be Queen, even if they have a younger brother. Currently, a younger boy would usurp his older sister's place in line to the throne. The proposed change would make the "hardest working royal", Princess Anne, above her brothers Andrew and Edward in line to the throne.
Hat tip to MK.
Historic News from the U.K.
In an unprecedented move, the U.K. is set to abolish a 300 year old rule and allow Catholics to ascend to the throne of England. As it currently stands, Catholics are not allowed to rule Great Britain, but under a proposal being drawn up by Downing Street, people in line to be king or queen will no longer be disqualified merely because of their Catholicism.
In another historic change, women will now be able to be Queen, even if they have a younger brother. Currently, a younger boy would usurp his older sister's place in line to the throne. The proposed change would make the "hardest working royal", Princess Anne, above her brothers Andrew and Edward in line to the throne.
Hat tip to MK.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
I Love Your Blog Award
Marie has generously given me the "I Love Your Blog" award and asked that I pass it onto 7 other blogs. Here are my pics:
1. Crown of Thorns; Crown of Glory
2. Conservative Blog for Peace
3. Conversion Diary
4. Holy Cards For Your Inspiration
5. St. Gemma Galgani
6. Catholic Home and Garden
7. Domestic Felicity
I Love Your Blog Award
Marie has generously given me the "I Love Your Blog" award and asked that I pass it onto 7 other blogs. Here are my pics:
1. Crown of Thorns; Crown of Glory
2. Conservative Blog for Peace
3. Conversion Diary
4. Holy Cards For Your Inspiration
5. St. Gemma Galgani
6. Catholic Home and Garden
7. Domestic Felicity
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Four
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day FourSupreme Dominations, you who have the authority over all Angelic Choirs, and are charged with the execution of God's orders, rule over our minds and hearts, and in virtue of the Divine Blood, help us to know and faithfully accomplish the will of God.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Four
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day FourSupreme Dominations, you who have the authority over all Angelic Choirs, and are charged with the execution of God's orders, rule over our minds and hearts, and in virtue of the Divine Blood, help us to know and faithfully accomplish the will of God.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Three
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Three
Sublime Thrones, dazzling in your beauty, upon whom rest the Almighty and who convey his commands to the inferior angels, obtain for us in virtue of the Divine Blood, peace with God, with our neighbor and with ourselves.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day Three
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Three
Sublime Thrones, dazzling in your beauty, upon whom rest the Almighty and who convey his commands to the inferior angels, obtain for us in virtue of the Divine Blood, peace with God, with our neighbor and with ourselves.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Monday, September 22, 2008
Upcoming Ember Days
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday of this week are the traditional autumn Ember Days. This is a tradition of fasting (now voluntary) before the 4 changes of the seasons in the year to focus on God through His creation.Traditionally, during each quarterly period of Ember Days, the faithful were called on to focus on a different virtue and repent of a vice as the reason for their fasting. Blessed Jacopo de Voragine, in the 13th century told of the focus of each Ember Day period. Here are some of his thoughts on the Ember Days that occur in Autumn.
In harvest (we ought to fast) to repress the drought of pride...because...in this time the fruits be gathered and we should render to God the fruits of good works. In harvest we (also) fast to refrain melancholy. In September...we fast to the end...that the earth of coldness and the darkness of ignorance...be attempered to us... and that we be ripe by attemperance. We fast to make amends for all that we have failed in all these four times.So the Michaelmas Embertide (the Ember Days following the Feast of the Holy Cross in September before the Feast of St. Michael) are to focus on thanking God for the gift of the harvest, to make amends for all our sin, and to fast from pride and from melencholy.
I think it is a good idea, at this harvest time, before our the annual "holiday season" overtakes us, to stop and thank God for all His blessings, and to pray especially for the strength to overcome our tendancy towards pride (and melancholy as the days grow shorter) and to focus our spiritual energies towards having an appropriately godly focus to our upcoming months of feasting.
Let us thank God for his rich blessings!
An Ember Day Haiku
I feel the coolness
in the quiet harvest night
and offer thanks
in the quiet harvest night
and offer thanks
Upcoming Ember Days
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday of this week are the traditional autumn Ember Days. This is a tradition of fasting (now voluntary) before the 4 changes of the seasons in the year to focus on God through His creation.Traditionally, during each quarterly period of Ember Days, the faithful were called on to focus on a different virtue and repent of a vice as the reason for their fasting. Blessed Jacopo de Voragine, in the 13th century told of the focus of each Ember Day period. Here are some of his thoughts on the Ember Days that occur in Autumn.
In harvest (we ought to fast) to repress the drought of pride...because...in this time the fruits be gathered and we should render to God the fruits of good works. In harvest we (also) fast to refrain melancholy. In September...we fast to the end...that the earth of coldness and the darkness of ignorance...be attempered to us... and that we be ripe by attemperance. We fast to make amends for all that we have failed in all these four times.So the Michaelmas Embertide (the Ember Days following the Feast of the Holy Cross in September before the Feast of St. Michael) are to focus on thanking God for the gift of the harvest, to make amends for all our sin, and to fast from pride and from melencholy.
I think it is a good idea, at this harvest time, before our the annual "holiday season" overtakes us, to stop and thank God for all His blessings, and to pray especially for the strength to overcome our tendancy towards pride (and melancholy as the days grow shorter) and to focus our spiritual energies towards having an appropriately godly focus to our upcoming months of feasting.
Let us thank God for his rich blessings!
An Ember Day Haiku
I feel the coolness
in the quiet harvest night
and offer thanks
in the quiet harvest night
and offer thanks
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day 2
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Two
Bright Cherubim, you who are allowed a deeper insight into God's secrets, dispel the darkness of our souls and in virtue of the Divine Blood, give that supernatural light to our eyes that will enable us to understand the truths of salvation.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Novena to St. Michael and All Holy Angels--Day 2
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day Two
Bright Cherubim, you who are allowed a deeper insight into God's secrets, dispel the darkness of our souls and in virtue of the Divine Blood, give that supernatural light to our eyes that will enable us to understand the truths of salvation.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels, protect us in our combats, that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end.
~Amen
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Novena to St. Michael and All the Holy Angels
September 29 is the Feast of St. Michael and All the Holy Angels. Today begins a novena to end on the feast day.
The Archangels are very powerful protectors and intercessors to God. Please join me in this Novena for the protection of our loved ones.
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day One
Ardent Seraphim, you who dwell in the eternal home of love, unceasingly absorbed in the rays of the Sun of Justice, we beg you in virtue of the Divine Blood, to enkindle in our hearts, that holy fire with which you are consumed.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels protect us in our combats that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, worth without end.
~Amen.
Novena to St. Michael and All the Holy Angels
September 29 is the Feast of St. Michael and All the Holy Angels. Today begins a novena to end on the feast day.
The Archangels are very powerful protectors and intercessors to God. Please join me in this Novena for the protection of our loved ones.
Novena Prayer to St. Michael and All Angels--Day One
Ardent Seraphim, you who dwell in the eternal home of love, unceasingly absorbed in the rays of the Sun of Justice, we beg you in virtue of the Divine Blood, to enkindle in our hearts, that holy fire with which you are consumed.
St. Michael the Archangel, and all the Holy Angels protect us in our combats that we may not perish in the tremendous judgment of God.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, worth without end.
~Amen.
Today is World Alzheimer's Day
September 21st is World Alzheimer's Day. According to alzinfo.org, "Alzheimer's affects about 10 percent of people ages 65 and up, and the prevalence doubles roughly every 10 years after age 65. Half of the population ages 85 and up may have Alzheimer's." By 2050, it is possible that 16 million Americans will have the disease.Alzheimer's asks a lot of us as a society. It asks us to care for those who can no longer care for themselves. It asks us to care for those whose lives, many think, no longer meet society's standards for "quality of living". In fact, there are people in today's society who believe that those with dementia have a "duty to die". This blatant selfishness is a prime example of the "culture of death" that the late Pope John Paul II spoke out against. As Catholics and Christians, we have a duty to care for those who need our care and to see Our Lord in their faces.
Alzheimer's is challenging how we think as a people. It is challenging our ability to be forward thinking in developing the necessary caring relationships with our fellow human beings. It is challenging us to love as Jesus called us to love.
For more information about Alzheimer's disease, communication, home safety and caregiving, click here. I also have information in my sidebar about Catholic caregiving resources. I wanted to make a special mention of The Friends of Saint John the Caregiver. Saint John, the Beloved Disciple, took Our Lady into his home at the request of Jesus on the Cross. Thus, Saint John is thought of by some as the patron saint of caregivers. There is a Catholic organization called Friends of Saint John the Caregiver with information about caregiving from a Catholic perspective. They are a blessing and a godsend.
Lastly, pray for those who have dementia and for their caregivers. Here is a prayer from the Friends of St. John site:
Prayer to St. John, Patron of Caregivers
Beloved St. John, from the cross Jesus entrusted to you
the care of His Blessed Mother.
Help me and all those taking care of a loved one
who is sick, elderly, disabled or frail.
Pray for us, that as we go about our many caregiving
duties, we may never lose sight of that truth
which Christ revealed to His disciples:
"Whatever you did for one of these,
you did for Me."
~Amen.
Hat tip to MK.
Today is World Alzheimer's Day
September 21st is World Alzheimer's Day. According to alzinfo.org, "Alzheimer's affects about 10 percent of people ages 65 and up, and the prevalence doubles roughly every 10 years after age 65. Half of the population ages 85 and up may have Alzheimer's." By 2050, it is possible that 16 million Americans will have the disease.Alzheimer's asks a lot of us as a society. It asks us to care for those who can no longer care for themselves. It asks us to care for those whose lives, many think, no longer meet society's standards for "quality of living". In fact, there are people in today's society who believe that those with dementia have a "duty to die". This blatant selfishness is a prime example of the "culture of death" that the late Pope John Paul II spoke out against. As Catholics and Christians, we have a duty to care for those who need our care and to see Our Lord in their faces.
Alzheimer's is challenging how we think as a people. It is challenging our ability to be forward thinking in developing the necessary caring relationships with our fellow human beings. It is challenging us to love as Jesus called us to love.
For more information about Alzheimer's disease, communication, home safety and caregiving, click here. I also have information in my sidebar about Catholic caregiving resources. I wanted to make a special mention of The Friends of Saint John the Caregiver. Saint John, the Beloved Disciple, took Our Lady into his home at the request of Jesus on the Cross. Thus, Saint John is thought of by some as the patron saint of caregivers. There is a Catholic organization called Friends of Saint John the Caregiver with information about caregiving from a Catholic perspective. They are a blessing and a godsend.
Lastly, pray for those who have dementia and for their caregivers. Here is a prayer from the Friends of St. John site:
Prayer to St. John, Patron of Caregivers
Beloved St. John, from the cross Jesus entrusted to you
the care of His Blessed Mother.
Help me and all those taking care of a loved one
who is sick, elderly, disabled or frail.
Pray for us, that as we go about our many caregiving
duties, we may never lose sight of that truth
which Christ revealed to His disciples:
"Whatever you did for one of these,
you did for Me."
~Amen.
Hat tip to MK.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
He Must Increase While I Must Decrease
I've been thinking lately of the words of John the Baptist from John 3:30: "He must increase, but I must decrease." The idea of replacing, or supplanting one's will with the Heart and Mind of God is one that saints strive for. I think it is central to Christianity because to follow the self, the ego, leads not only to eternal destruction but to gross unhappiness in this life.Letting go of the self is the path to finding God and letting God's will work in your life. The difficult part for me, is allowing God's will when I'm not fully aware of what it might be. For me, that is the real letting go--trusting in the Lord to guide me, even though I am not capable, sometimes, of hearing His voice or following His call.
God gives me many opportunities to let myself decrease while Jesus increases. I can consciously serve others. I can try to present myself modestly. I can work to the best of my ability.
It is truly freeing when Jesus takes first place in my life. It is no longer about "me". My needs and my feelings are no longer so important, that I must do anything in my power to serve them. I can have the trust that God, literally, will provide whatever it is that I, in my soul, think that I cannot live without. Happiness is no longer something that I feel the need to go around and take from other people. Happiness is something that truly rests in the Lord.l
Our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee.
~Saint Augustine
He Must Increase While I Must Decrease
I've been thinking lately of the words of John the Baptist from John 3:30: "He must increase, but I must decrease." The idea of replacing, or supplanting one's will with the Heart and Mind of God is one that saints strive for. I think it is central to Christianity because to follow the self, the ego, leads not only to eternal destruction but to gross unhappiness in this life.Letting go of the self is the path to finding God and letting God's will work in your life. The difficult part for me, is allowing God's will when I'm not fully aware of what it might be. For me, that is the real letting go--trusting in the Lord to guide me, even though I am not capable, sometimes, of hearing His voice or following His call.
God gives me many opportunities to let myself decrease while Jesus increases. I can consciously serve others. I can try to present myself modestly. I can work to the best of my ability.
It is truly freeing when Jesus takes first place in my life. It is no longer about "me". My needs and my feelings are no longer so important, that I must do anything in my power to serve them. I can have the trust that God, literally, will provide whatever it is that I, in my soul, think that I cannot live without. Happiness is no longer something that I feel the need to go around and take from other people. Happiness is something that truly rests in the Lord.l
Our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee.
~Saint Augustine
Friday, September 19, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Pray for Our Country Today
Let's send up a special prayer for America in this election season--not only for the election itself, but for all the candidates and all the voters that we may live in peace together throughout this sometimes contentious election season.
Pray for Our Country Today
Let's send up a special prayer for America in this election season--not only for the election itself, but for all the candidates and all the voters that we may live in peace together throughout this sometimes contentious election season.
Saint Gemma
I wanted to highlight a new blog about St. Gemma Galgani. She was an early 20th century mystic who had the stigmata, endured attacks by the devil, and experienced visits from her guardian angel.Stop by the St. Gemma Galgani blog and learn more about her.
By the way, this photo of Saint Gemma (from that blog) is completely new to me and really seems to illustrate the closeness with Jesus and inner peace that Gemma experienced.
So far, statues and illustrations of her don't come close to showing her real spiritual power.
Hat tip to
Saint Gemma
I wanted to highlight a new blog about St. Gemma Galgani. She was an early 20th century mystic who had the stigmata, endured attacks by the devil, and experienced visits from her guardian angel.Stop by the St. Gemma Galgani blog and learn more about her.
By the way, this photo of Saint Gemma (from that blog) is completely new to me and really seems to illustrate the closeness with Jesus and inner peace that Gemma experienced.
So far, statues and illustrations of her don't come close to showing her real spiritual power.
Hat tip to
Unbelievable Intolerance From the "Open Minded"
Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues, wrote a piece recently about Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin that soars to the height of left-wing, feminist hypocrisy.
In it she states that "everything Sarah Palin believes in and practices is antithetical to Feminism which for me is part of one story -- connected to saving the earth, ending racism, empowering women, giving young girls options, opening our minds, deepening tolerance, and ending violence and war." (Emphasis mine.)
She tells us that " Sarah Palin does not believe in evolution. (She) does not believe in abortion" and assumes that Palin "obviously does not believe in sex education or birth control " because of the pregnancy of her 17 year old daughter.
Ensler then goes on to tell us what Sarah Palin *does* believe in. According to Ms. Ensler, Sarah Palin "believes in guns. " And, perhaps most dangerous of all, (she) "believes in God."
(Emphasis mine.)
Apparently, feminism is no longer about equal rights, equal education, equal opportunity and equal pay for equal work. Feminism is now about evolution, global warming, abortion, gun control, sex ed, and atheism!
Oh, and "deepening tolerance." Uhuh. How about a little tolerance for pro-life, Republican, hunting, Christian moms, hmmm? Or is that too much to ask?
And as far as inferring the beliefs of a parent from the behavior of their children, trust me. One can't always do that.
In it she states that "everything Sarah Palin believes in and practices is antithetical to Feminism which for me is part of one story -- connected to saving the earth, ending racism, empowering women, giving young girls options, opening our minds, deepening tolerance, and ending violence and war." (Emphasis mine.)
She tells us that " Sarah Palin does not believe in evolution. (She) does not believe in abortion" and assumes that Palin "obviously does not believe in sex education or birth control " because of the pregnancy of her 17 year old daughter.
Ensler then goes on to tell us what Sarah Palin *does* believe in. According to Ms. Ensler, Sarah Palin "believes in guns. " And, perhaps most dangerous of all, (she) "believes in God."
(Emphasis mine.)
Apparently, feminism is no longer about equal rights, equal education, equal opportunity and equal pay for equal work. Feminism is now about evolution, global warming, abortion, gun control, sex ed, and atheism!
Oh, and "deepening tolerance." Uhuh. How about a little tolerance for pro-life, Republican, hunting, Christian moms, hmmm? Or is that too much to ask?
And as far as inferring the beliefs of a parent from the behavior of their children, trust me. One can't always do that.
Unbelievable Intolerance From the "Open Minded"
Eve Ensler, author of The Vagina Monologues, wrote a piece recently about Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin that soars to the height of left-wing, feminist hypocrisy.
In it she states that "everything Sarah Palin believes in and practices is antithetical to Feminism which for me is part of one story -- connected to saving the earth, ending racism, empowering women, giving young girls options, opening our minds, deepening tolerance, and ending violence and war." (Emphasis mine.)
She tells us that " Sarah Palin does not believe in evolution. (She) does not believe in abortion" and assumes that Palin "obviously does not believe in sex education or birth control " because of the pregnancy of her 17 year old daughter.
Ensler then goes on to tell us what Sarah Palin *does* believe in. According to Ms. Ensler, Sarah Palin "believes in guns. " And, perhaps most dangerous of all, (she) "believes in God."
(Emphasis mine.)
Apparently, feminism is no longer about equal rights, equal education, equal opportunity and equal pay for equal work. Feminism is now about evolution, global warming, abortion, gun control, sex ed, and atheism!
Oh, and "deepening tolerance." Uhuh. How about a little tolerance for pro-life, Republican, hunting, Christian moms, hmmm? Or is that too much to ask?
And as far as inferring the beliefs of a parent from the behavior of their children, trust me. One can't always do that.
In it she states that "everything Sarah Palin believes in and practices is antithetical to Feminism which for me is part of one story -- connected to saving the earth, ending racism, empowering women, giving young girls options, opening our minds, deepening tolerance, and ending violence and war." (Emphasis mine.)
She tells us that " Sarah Palin does not believe in evolution. (She) does not believe in abortion" and assumes that Palin "obviously does not believe in sex education or birth control " because of the pregnancy of her 17 year old daughter.
Ensler then goes on to tell us what Sarah Palin *does* believe in. According to Ms. Ensler, Sarah Palin "believes in guns. " And, perhaps most dangerous of all, (she) "believes in God."
(Emphasis mine.)
Apparently, feminism is no longer about equal rights, equal education, equal opportunity and equal pay for equal work. Feminism is now about evolution, global warming, abortion, gun control, sex ed, and atheism!
Oh, and "deepening tolerance." Uhuh. How about a little tolerance for pro-life, Republican, hunting, Christian moms, hmmm? Or is that too much to ask?
And as far as inferring the beliefs of a parent from the behavior of their children, trust me. One can't always do that.
Our Lady of Sorrows
Today is the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. One of the traditional depictions of Mary as Our Lady of Sorrows shows a sword piercing her heart. This comes from the prophesy of Simeon, "And your own soul, a sword shall pierce." (Luke 2:35)Here is the first movement of Pergolesi's version of Stabat Mater Dolorosa. Here is the Latin:
Stabat mater dolorosa
Juxta crucem lacrimosa,
Dum pendebat Filius.
And the English:
The grieving Mother stood weeping
beside the cross where her Son was hanging
Our Lady of Sorrows
Today is the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows. One of the traditional depictions of Mary as Our Lady of Sorrows shows a sword piercing her heart. This comes from the prophesy of Simeon, "And your own soul, a sword shall pierce." (Luke 2:35)Here is the first movement of Pergolesi's version of Stabat Mater Dolorosa. Here is the Latin:
Stabat mater dolorosa
Juxta crucem lacrimosa,
Dum pendebat Filius.
And the English:
The grieving Mother stood weeping
beside the cross where her Son was hanging
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Triumph of the Holy Cross
Today is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The Church has celebrated this feast since September 14, 335, when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was dedicated.
St. Helen, mother of the Emperor Constantine, had the church built over the spot of Jesus' Crucifixion and burial, which she helped to rediscover on a trip to the Holy Land. Saint Helen is said to have discovered the True Cross of Christ, along with the crosses that were used to crucify the 2 thieves.
This feast is also called the Triumph of the Cross and is celebrated in a more festive atmosphere than would be appropriate on Good Friday.
We share this feast day with our Orthodox brethren.
We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You,
because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.
Triumph of the Holy Cross
Today is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The Church has celebrated this feast since September 14, 335, when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was dedicated.
St. Helen, mother of the Emperor Constantine, had the church built over the spot of Jesus' Crucifixion and burial, which she helped to rediscover on a trip to the Holy Land. Saint Helen is said to have discovered the True Cross of Christ, along with the crosses that were used to crucify the 2 thieves.
This feast is also called the Triumph of the Cross and is celebrated in a more festive atmosphere than would be appropriate on Good Friday.
We share this feast day with our Orthodox brethren.
We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You,
because by Your Holy Cross, You have redeemed the world.
Friday, September 12, 2008
She Loves You
Another fan vid of Astaire and Rogers, this time to the tune of The Beatles, "She Loves You."
She Loves You
Another fan vid of Astaire and Rogers, this time to the tune of The Beatles, "She Loves You."
Thursday, September 11, 2008
In Honor of the Fallen
Also, in honor of those who died in the 9/11 attacks, I wanted to post a picture of this moving war memorial from the blog, Seven Angels, Four Kids, One Family. Our Lady is shown with the Infant Jesus as Prince of Peace. An angel (perhaps a guardian angel) is lovingly holding the body of a soldier, as Mary and Jesus look on with welcoming expressions.
May all those who perished on 9/11 and the days following, and all our beloved dead, rest in peace.
In Honor of the Fallen
Also, in honor of those who died in the 9/11 attacks, I wanted to post a picture of this moving war memorial from the blog, Seven Angels, Four Kids, One Family. Our Lady is shown with the Infant Jesus as Prince of Peace. An angel (perhaps a guardian angel) is lovingly holding the body of a soldier, as Mary and Jesus look on with welcoming expressions.
May all those who perished on 9/11 and the days following, and all our beloved dead, rest in peace.
In Memorium
Today is the 7th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, Flight 93 and the Pentagon.
In honor of all those who lost their lives that day in our fallen and troubled world, I offer you this video I discovered on YouTube entitled "Pray for Peace in the World". It is a calm and meditative video of God's beautiful creation set to an instrumental version of Ave Maria.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us!
In honor of all those who lost their lives that day in our fallen and troubled world, I offer you this video I discovered on YouTube entitled "Pray for Peace in the World". It is a calm and meditative video of God's beautiful creation set to an instrumental version of Ave Maria.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us!
In Memorium
Today is the 7th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, Flight 93 and the Pentagon.
In honor of all those who lost their lives that day in our fallen and troubled world, I offer you this video I discovered on YouTube entitled "Pray for Peace in the World". It is a calm and meditative video of God's beautiful creation set to an instrumental version of Ave Maria.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us!
In honor of all those who lost their lives that day in our fallen and troubled world, I offer you this video I discovered on YouTube entitled "Pray for Peace in the World". It is a calm and meditative video of God's beautiful creation set to an instrumental version of Ave Maria.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Great Daily Prayer Site
Looking for help in your daily prayer life? Pray as you go is a site that has a daily weekday prayer session on line that you can listen to either on your computer, or download onto an MP3 player. Definitely a great way to start the day!
Here is the daily format:
They even have an end of the day reflection too!
Here is the daily format:
 | Bells - the call to prayer |
 | Opening music, with a few words of introduction |
 | Scripture for the day |
 | Questions for personal reflection |
| | Repeat of the scripture reading |
 | Final reflection |
They even have an end of the day reflection too!
Great Daily Prayer Site
Looking for help in your daily prayer life? Pray as you go is a site that has a daily weekday prayer session on line that you can listen to either on your computer, or download onto an MP3 player. Definitely a great way to start the day!
Here is the daily format:
They even have an end of the day reflection too!
Here is the daily format:
| | Bells - the call to prayer |
| | Opening music, with a few words of introduction |
| | Scripture for the day |
| | Questions for personal reflection |
| | Repeat of the scripture reading |
| | Final reflection |
They even have an end of the day reflection too!
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