Random Thoughts About God

Book Review: Walking with Jesus

2011-05-22T14:57:00.000-04:00

Walking With Jesus

By Father Daniel Sullivan

http://www.monsignordanielsullivan.com

Publisher: Paulist Press
http://www.paulistpress.com/

ISBN-10: 0809141310

ISBN-13: 978-0809141319

Walking with Jesus, written by Father Daniel Sullivan, is an inspiring book which takes us on a spiritual journey of the crucifixion and death of Jesus through the points-of-view of those who knew Him. These fictional first person reflections make you think about what these other biblical people may have been thinking. We meet people such as the soldiers, guards, the thieves crucified with Jesus, Mary Magdalene, the Lepers, The Virgin Mary, John the beloved disciple, and even some other people less known friends of Jesus.

As we read along and “walk with Jesus”, we easily see these good and not so good traits in us. However, the passages often leave us with a sense of hope. No matter who was at the foot of the Cross, Jesus was continually seeking the people out. Not just as a group – but as individual people. Just as God knows each of us down to the hairs on our heads and has called us each by name, so Jesus sought each person, individually, from the cross. As we read, we see these events are just as it is today. Jesus loves and has died for each of us – individually. What a great lesson of hope!

As a reader, I found myself breezing through the chapters without pause. I laughed, I cried, and I smiled. Each chapter I found myself asking, “In what great way will meeting Jesus change this person’s life?” Often in the book, the change is a result from something simple Jesus said or did – great, but simple.

This book is great for everyone, no matter where you are in your spiritual life. I fully recommend Walking with Jesus to anyone seeking growth in their journey with Jesus.

Where to get Walking with Jesus:

http://www.amazon.com/Walking-Jesus-Reflections-Those-Knew/dp/0809141310

http://www.monsignordanielsullivan.com/CDS-and-Books-Available.html

About Monsignor Daniel Sullivan:

Monsignor Daniel Sullivan has been a pries of the diocese of Trenton since 1975. Learn more about him at: http://www.monsignordanielsullivan.com/My-Philosophy.html

R is for Ressurrection

2011-04-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

Easter Sunday is almost here. We are in the midst of Holy Week and Holy Thursday is today. We are about to celebrate Jesus' Resurrection from the dead. When the women then some of the apostles visit Jesus' tomb, they had no idea what they would experience. They expected to anoint his body, but instead found an empty tomb with the stone rolled away. "Why do you look for the living among the dead," asked an angel.

Easter Sunday we will be celebrating these moments...and more. For it wasn't just His Resurrection, but his defeat of sin and death. This was the fulfillment of God's promise to redeem us and make us able to enter Heaven once again. God has found a way!

This Sunday - celebrate and thank Jesus for his gift. He gave us LIFE. Not just any life - but eternal life!

Q is for Queen of Heaven and Earth

2011-04-19T22:20:00.000-04:00

The fifth Glorious Mystery of the Rosary is "Mary is Crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth".We see Mary as a "woman clothed with the sun", "crowned with stars" and "crushing the head of the serpent" in the Book of Revelation. So, Jesus not only gave us His mother on the cross when He said , "Behold your mother" and "Mother, behold your son", but as the mother of our King, she is the Queen Mother. Bow blessed are we to have such a humble, caring and loving mother who teaches us to "Listen to Him" (as she told the people at the Wedding at Cana). Mary leads a great example, if how to say "yes" to God, to trust in Him, even when things seem they are at their darkest hours (just as they did for her when he son was on the cross) Let us all follow our Mother and Queen's example and always say "yes" to and trust in God's will.

N is for Novenas

2011-04-16T05:40:00.002-04:00

The Novena, a prayer repeated every day for nine days, is a rich Catholic tradition. We often pray them when we have a serious intention such as an illness in the family or community or to obtain special graces.

The first Novena was prayed by the apostles and Mary after the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven. He promised He'd send the Holy Spirit to strengthen the apostles so they could continue Jesus' mission. After the Ascension, the apostles and Mary prayed together in the upper room for nine days. After nine days the Holy Spirit descended upon them.

In addition to the Novena to the Holy Spirit, there are a great variety of Novenas now: Novena to Christ the King, Novena to the Holy Name, Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, All Souls Novena, Novena for the Holy Souls in Purgatory, and Novenas to different saints for their intercession.

Visit the EWTN website to view other Novena titles and prayers.

M is for Marta's Gargantuan Wings

2011-04-15T05:00:00.001-04:00

Below is a book review I thought would fit well here. This great story is more than what meets the eye.

Marta's Gargantuan Wings

By: J. Aday Kennedy
Illustrated by: Eugene Ruble

Published by Guardian Angel Publishing
http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/

Print ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-093-4; 1616330937
eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-61633-094-1; 1616330945

Blurb:
Reluctant readers will devour the humorous and thought provoking tale. A Pegasus that resembles a mule, a witty monkey that defends him and a hateful bird teach children looks aren’t important.What makes someone appear strange or different could be what makes them able to save the day.

Review:

Marta's Gargantuan Wings is a wonderful story about friendship and values. What is important in a person? Is it our looks, success, or beauty? Or is it more than that?
In this inspiring tale, Marta, a brwon, spotty pegasus with gargantuan sized wings, is hurt when Aljor, her beautiful blue friend insults her. Soon, the loveable Marta begins to believe what Aljor says about her. Her best friend, Stajon the monkey tries to cheer Marta up by going for a fly in the sky. But while flying they discover a fire - and Aljor is hurt and needs help.

This is a great story not only about friendship, but about values. Do we only help the people who are nice to us all the time and forget about the ones who hurt us? Or are we to be Christ-like and turn the other cheek, especially when someone is in danger.

The detailed illustrations by Eugene Ruble fit the story well and captured the characters.

This is a great read that many children will enjoy.

Get your copies here:

Guardian Angel Publishing

and

Amazon

About Jessica Kennedy

J. Aday Kennedy, the differently-abled author, is an award winning, multi-publishedauthor of inspirational/Christian articles and essays for adults and of children’s literature. As a ventilator dependent quadriplegic, she is making her dreams come true one story at a time. As a speaker, Aday entertains, instructs, motivates and inspires audiences of all ages. She has two picture books, Klutzy Kantor and Marta’s Gargantuan Wings, published by Guardian Angel Publishing. To learn more about her and her writing, visit her website and blog.

About Eugene Ruble

Eugene E. Ruble’s 40 years of art encompasses: graphic art and design, freelance illustration, and cartooning, working with publishers, corporations and individual clients. Ruble teaches caricature art, cartooning, painting and basic drawing classes at St. Louis community centers, public schools, YMCAs and colleges. He also illustrates children’s books. Look for his books at Guardian Angel Publishing. Eugene is a 30-year Distinguished Member of the St. Louis Artists’ Guild.

L is for Lent

2011-04-14T05:41:00.001-04:00

We are rounding the end of the season of Lent. It is a holy season in which we prepare for the celebration of Easter. We give things up (fasting), we enrich our spiritual lives, and we repent of our sins. That is why we use the ashes on Ash Wednesday - to admit our sinful nature and our sorrow for our sins. It is also a time to reflect on Jesus and his suffering for our sins.

Here are some things, in addition to fasting and giving up something, to do to enrich your spiritual life this Lenten Season:

More spiritual reading - read about the saints, their lives, their writings. Read more of the Bible. Read more about your faith.
Go to Confession. Lent is a great time to confess your sins and seek forgiveness.
Do good deeds - offer help to someone in need, prepare a meal for a home bound person, do a chore for a family member
Pray more - add an extra prayer. Or take up a devotion such as the Rosary or the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Making the extra effort will make your spiritual growth flourish.

K is for King

2011-04-13T05:00:00.001-04:00

How would you treat a king? A king is deserving of honor, respect and obedience. An earthly king might even demand these things. However, as Christians we serve a higher king.We serve Christ the King. He is not just king of Heaven and Earth, He is King of our hearts. If we are to follow Him and be with Him in Heaven, we must follow His Law. Though He is the highest king, he does not impose himself on us. It is up to us - our free will- to decide to follow Him and His Law.

What is his Law? The Bible? The Ten Commandments? The Two Great Commandments? It is a mix of all these things. As He once said, "Be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect." That's a tall order to live up to. But possible. Very possible. God gives us all the things we need. He gives us the Church. We have our priests. He gave us the sacraments. He gave us Himself on the cross.

When we go to church every week, we are there to not only worship our Heavenly King, but we are given the renewal of the strength to strive to be worthy of His presence through the sacrament of Holy Communion. As always, He provides everything we need. We just need to say, "Yes God. I will serve."

What will you say to your King?

J is for Jesus

2011-04-12T10:14:00.000-04:00

My middle child, who has a unique love for God and our faith, had a special five-word sentence for this post. I wrote in my calendar that April 12th would be J for Jesus in my A to Z Blogging challenge. The words she wrote afterwards are precious: "Jesus is our only Lord." Out of the mouths of babes. So simple. So straightforward. So true.

H is for Horatio Humble Beats the Big D

2011-04-10T22:38:00.001-04:00

Horatio Humble Beats the Big D

I included this book review on my Random Thoughts blog because this is a great story about a boy in need who receives help from his parents and teachers.He also cares enough about himself to overcome this obstacle he has. As Christians, it's our duty to help those in need - and it never hurts to have a good example now and then. Especially when we see what the outcome can be for those we help.
Book information:

Horatio Humble Beats the Big D – dyslexia

(A rhyming picture book)

Print ISBN: 978-1-61633-101-6; 1616331011

eBook ISBN: 978-1-61633-102-3; 161633102X

Blurb:

As a teacher’s aide, I discovered that many children, especially boys, have dyslexia or other types of learning disabilities. I wrote this PB with those problems in mind.

Horatio is a smart boy who can’t read. The thought of special Ed. freaks him out. “NO WAY!” But go he does, and surprising results follow .

This is fun to read. It shows that dyslexic kids CAN learn to read. It also encourages parents to diagnose early and find help. A parent/teacher guide offers clues, plus helpful links to more informative websites.

Review:

Horatio Humble Beats the Big “D” is a humbling rhyming picture book about a tough topic. The “Big D” turns out to be Dyslexia, which is a common learning disability involving reading.

Author Margot Finke tells the tale with witty rhyme and illuminating words. In the picture book, Horatio runs into reading problems such as words clumping “into frightening herds” and his tongue jumbling “words without success”. This is just a sample of the wonderful mosaic of words Margot Finke presents in the story.

As a reader, I couldn’t help but get caught up in the emotions with Horatio as he dreaded the looming parent-teacher conference, learned what Dyslexia is and unwillingly attended “special class”.

Margot Finke handled the rhyming well in this smooth reading picture book. I barely noticed the rhyme as I rooted for Horatio to overcome the “Big D”. Horatio is a character I won’t soon forget.

I fully recommend this book for any child battling the “Big D”, but also for all children who can identify with reading problems. In addition to this wonderful story, more information and resources are listed at the end of the book on Dyslexia. As a parent and a teacher, I find this book a great addition to the bookshelf.

Watch the Trailer here:

Where to get Horatio Humble Beats the Big “D”:

Amazon

GAP Page

Target

Autographed copies (BUY My Books)

More information on the book:

Reviews

Trailer

G is for Gospel

2011-04-10T20:44:00.000-04:00

The Gospel is the most known and most familiar part of the Bible to us. In it, we read, learn and appreciate Jesus' ministry here on Earth. It is another one of the most abundant gifts God has given us. Another pathway to Heaven, if we just listen. It is even spelled out for us in my poem below.

If we live and follow Jesus' teachings, then the Gospel is certainly:

G od's

O wn

S ure

P ath to

E ternal

L ife

F is for Father

2011-04-10T20:36:00.000-04:00

The Catholic faith has many uses of the word "father".

First, we often think of God the Father. He is our Creator and as such we are all His children. From the beginning He has taught us to be like Him and how to be good people. Like a parent teaches and molds their child, so God teaches and molds us. He does this first through his Law and the prophets in the Old Testament and then leads a perfect example through Jesus in the New Testament. Jesus taught us how to please the Father, love the Father and pray to the Father.

We also immediately think of our own father when we hear the word father. Our fathers are our biological and earthly fathers. They care for, nurture and protect us as we grow up. We are God's gifts to our parents who pass on the faith and Jesus' teachings to us.

Another common use of the word Father is the name we use for priests. Of course we do not mean this literally or as a replacement for the term we call God. When we call our priests "father" it is in reference to a spiritual father like how the early Christians viewed the first Christian teachers such as Peter, Paul and John. In fact many of their letters we read in the Bible address the Christians as "my children". The priests today do the same: they lead us closer to Christ as a parent leads a child to safety. They teach us to remain in God's grace the way a parent teaches a child right from wrong.

Thank you God the Father for our fathers and our fatherly priests!

Easter - The Victory over Death

2011-04-07T22:15:00.000-04:00

Easter Sunday is fast approaching. Lent is more than half way over and in my parish choir we are diligently preparing for this great feast day. Easter sometimes doesn't get the attention it deserves - especially being the first big feast day after Christmas. But Easter is bigger than Christmas. It's not just a day in history in which a few followers of Christ rejoiced. This is a day of celebration for all humans in all of human history.

"This is the day the Lord has made." It is the day Jesus defeated death. Not just physical death by rising from the dead, but He defeated our spiritual death. Without the events of Holy Week and then Jesus' Resurrection, we would not be able to be in Heaven. Jesus' "yes" and obedience to the Father's will saved us all from the sins of Adam, and subsequently, our own sins.

This Easter, let us stop and reflect in thanksgiving and praise for what He has done and endured for us. Our King humbled himself to be nailed to a cross just to save us. Thank you Jesus for being our Savior!

Daniel Sullivan, Monsignor

2011-04-07T19:00:00.000-04:00

I chose a special topic today to blog about in the A to Z blogging challenge. Daniel Sullivan. More specifically, Monsignor Daniel Sullivan. He is an engaging speaker, motivating priest and a servant of God on a mission.

Father Dan, as he is often called, began his ministry as a parish priest. After several years, and many inspiring experiences later, he began doing parish retreats. His words and stories move your heart and soul. They point out our humanity, and thus, our dependence on God. The experiences Father Dan shares with you will make you laugh, and some will make you cry. But it's just these emotions in which our own healing begins - and thus a miracle. His preaching is powerful and thought provoking.

But there is more to what Father Dan is about. He felt called to follow a visiting Archbishop to Sierra Leone, Africa where he learned the true horrors of war on all humans - but especially children. Father was so moved by the nightmares he saw, that he got involved. As he said at a recent retreat, "These are my kids." Father Dan runs several projects to help his kids, which can be found on his website.

One project he's working on is collecting children's books. As a children's author this appealed to me. I am currently contemplating the most effective way I can help these children. If you have a moment, I recommend you check out the link - http://www.monsignordanielsullivan.com/ and learn more about this inspirational priest and his mission. Be sure to look into his book Walking with Jesus as well, which can be purchased here.

C is for Cecilia

2011-04-04T15:00:00.000-04:00

Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of music and musicians. She was born a Christian in the second or third century and had a dedication to God. She vowed to God she would remain a virgin. Despite this vow, she was promised in marriage to a pagan named Valerian. During her wedding, it is said she heard heavenly music inside her heart. That night, she told her new husband of her promise and that an angel was guarding her purity. When Valerian asked to see this angel, Cecilia told him he would be able to once he became baptized. Valerian then saw the angel upon his return to Cecilia. The angel had two crowns - one or roses and one of lilies, and placed them on the heads of Cecilia and Valerian. At once the angel vanished, and Valerian's brother entered the room, curious about the floral scents. When he heard the story, he too wanted to convert and be baptized.

Shortly after the two conversions Cecilia's husband and brother decided to bury Christians who have been martyred. Cecilia went out teaching others about the faith and in turn converted 400 people. As a result, she was persecuted and sentenced to death. However, the first attempt was suffocation and was unsuccessful. When they tried to behead her, the execution ran off after the third attempt. She died three days later from her wounds.

She is the Patron Saint of Musicians due to the story of her hearing heavenly music in her heart after being forced to into marriage.

B is for Believe

2011-04-04T13:29:00.000-04:00

"Happy are those who have not seen, yet still believe." These famous words from John 20:29 were said to Thomas by Jesus after Thomas doubted the apostles' claim that they saw the risen Lord. Unfortunately, the problem of disbelief was not only in Jesus' time, but is in ours as well. For whatever reason, many people - even fellow Christians or people close to us, fail to believe. This occurs despite the miracles Jesus performed, or all the miracles and mystical experiences the saints have shared. The fact alone that Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven should be enough for all humanity to believe not only in God but in his teachings and laws as well.

Why such unbelief? Is it that we haven't seen these events for ourselves? That we haven't seen enough evidence proving these events? The truth is, for the doubters of today, even witnessing these events might not be enough to rouse the belief. Belief starts with a decision. A decision to open our hearts to the Word of God. If our hearts are of stone, they can not be penetrated. We need to soften our hearts and let Jesus in. Once that happens, He will cure our blindness.

"Why is it important to believe," some have asked. "If God is real, He'll understand." These are some rationalizations I hear way too often. What people fail to realize that our belief is necessary - not only for this life but for the after life. Even the devil believes in God. He chose not to serve Him, but he believes.

This Lent, let us ask God to open our hearts to Him and to help our unbelief so that we can be happy now and forever.

A is for A to Z Blogging Challenge

2011-04-04T09:16:00.000-04:00

I joined, albeit - a few days late- the April A to Z Blogging Challenge. I just learned about it and think this is a great way to blog more often than when the inspiration hits. The goal of the challenge is to post something every day on your blog except Sundays so that there will be 26 April posts - one for each letter of the Alphabet. To read more about the challenge click on the side banner or visit the A to Z blog. I will be doing this on two of my blogs: Random Thoughts About God and my Author blog.

The Random Thoughts blog will be themed. of course, on God and the Church. What a great mid-Lenten challenge!

My author blog will be themed on writing, writing for children, my books, book reviews, My Light Magazine and other similar topics. Be sure to follow along and join in the fun! Don't worry if you're a day or two late - do what I did and roll up those sleeves and jump on in!

Band together to pray for Father Corapi

2011-03-19T20:05:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends,

When we work for God, we make enemies. Sometimes physical, sometimes spiritual, and sometimes both. Father John Corapi is a courageous priest who preaches the truth of Jesus and the Catholic Church. His words are powerful, thought provoking and inspirational. He has turned many lives around, helped many lost souls find God – all by his words.

Recently, there was an attack launched against this faithful priest. The accusations are hurtful and untruthful. Below, Father Corapi explains the situation, taken from his website:

“On Ash Wednesday I learned that a former employee sent a three-page letter to several bishops accusing me of everything from drug addiction to multiple sexual exploits with her and several other adult women…All of the allegations in the complaint are false, and I ask you to pray for all concerned. “

--Father John Corapi http://www.fathercorapi.com/default.aspx

More information can be found at the above link.

Many Catholics, in the past and present, suffer persecution because of their beliefs. When one suffers, especially a leader in our faith, it is natural to want to relieve that suffering. In an effort to do this, I would like to offer Father John Corapi a POWERFUL and inspirational spiritual bouquet .

Here’s how to help: Pledge one, two , ten or however many prayers you wish for Father John Corapi and his suffering and all those involved, since it was Father’s request to “pray for all concerned.” Your prayers can be traditional prayers, personal intentions, Masses, Rosaries, chaplets, devotions, hours of Adoration, Lenten Sacrifices, fasting, etc. Once you make your pledge, offer up the prayers and know you’ve done a Spiritual Work of Mercy. I’d like to have the spiritual bouquet completed in time for Easter Sunday. It would be meaningful to present these on the day our Lord defeated death and saved us from our sins.

Thank you for your interest in helping this priest who has helped us all in our spiritual lives. May God bless you!

Jennifer Gladen

Children’s Author

Founder/Editor –in-Chief My Light Magazine

Review of Father Donald Calloway's No Turning Back

2010-11-29T18:52:00.000-05:00

No Turning Back is a book worth reading for everyone. No matter where you are in your spiritual life, you will benefit from Father Calloway's experiences. I found this book to be one of the most captivating books I've read in a long time. Father story of his journey of faith was inspiring. From the minute I picked up the book, I was hooked. This book can easily be read in a few short days with the way it captivates the reader.

The introduction was a general explanation of the journey toward God that Father Donald traveled. It warns of his "animal-like" behavior in his teen years and asks forgiveness in advance to what we are about to read. This introduction was no exaggeration. The next nine chapters detailed all of the negative events that plagued Father Calloway's early life. His stories will make you want to pray for others who may be in those situations now.

At one point in the book, he refers to a scene being like a scene in a movie. In fact the whole book seems like events from a movie. He vividly details his wrong doings from disrespecting his parents, to drug and alcohol abuse, to stealing, and even nights in prison.

Just when you think the story couldn't be any more captivating, you follow Father through his miraculous conversion. This too was like a scene from a movie. I found myself cheering Father along as he rushed in urgency to visit a priest. Background music could have easily been playing as Father literally turned his life upside down in order to make room for God.

We see many sides of Father throughout the book, however all his past experiences have given him the skills of perseverance and determination to pursue the priesthood.

The book was well written and I had a hard time putting it down. I've managed to read it in just a few short days.

Father tells his story in such a personal way that you feel like you are there with him. This book also offers a bright beacon of hope for those who have family members in similar situations.

I highly recommend this book to everyone interested in Catholic spiritual reading. You won't be sorry.

You can purchase this book here.

I wrote this review of No Turning Back for the Tiber River Blogger Review program, created by Aquinas and More Catholic Goods, your source for Oplatki and Advent Calendars. For more information and to purchase, please visit Aquinas and More Catholic Goods.

Tiber River is the first Catholic book review site, started in 2000 to help you make informed decisions about Catholic book purchases.

I receive free product samples as compensation for writing reviews for Tiber River.

Review of Divine Mercy Video

2010-07-07T19:56:00.000-04:00

Orthodoxy: Mostly adheres to Church teachings.

Reading Level: N/A

By Jennifer Gladen (PA) - See all my reviews

Synopsis

An engaging cartoon about the Divine Mercy and how to pray it.

Evaluator Comments

Saint Faustina, together with her friends, talk about what the Divine Mercy Devotion is. Saint Faustina tells the children the story of when Jesus appeared to her and asked her to spread the message of his divine mercy to all.

They then go to church and pray the chaplet together. For each decade they do, they focus on the mysteries of Jesus’ Passion. While Saint Faustina and the children are praying, an image of that mystery is displayed on the screen. The artwork is colorful and eye catching, but doesn't distract you from praying.

In decade one, they focused on the Agony in the Garden and they show Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. The second decade was the Scourging at the Pillar and briefly showed the scourging. I found children with a strong love of Jesus had a tough time with the second mystery. However, this can be a great conversation starter and teachable moment for children. In the third decade they meditated on the Crowing of Thorns, showing the image of soldiers placing the crown of thorns on Jesus' head. The fourth mystery showed the Carrying of the Cross. With this image we see the cruelty the soldiers show Jesus as He carries His cross. Finally, with the fifth decade the characters focus on the Crucifixion.

After the prayers, Saint Faustina explains the importance and necessity of the sacrament of Confession and how this is a wonderful way to receive God’s mercy.

For children who are sensitive to Jesus' sufferings, you may want to prepare them ahead of time. The depictions are not graphic, but His passion and why He suffered can be a hard concept for children to grasp.

I showed this to my children and immediately it grabbed their attention. Instinctually, they all joined in the prayers. This movie definitely engages the children, while teaching them about Jesus and how to pray.

I fully recommend this video.

You can purchase the Divine Mercy Chaplet for Kids here

I wrote this review for the Tiber River Blogger Review program, created by Aquinas and More Catholic Goods, the largest Catholic Store online. For more information and to purchase, please visit Aquinas and More Catholic Goods.

Tiber River is the first Catholic book review site, started in 2000 to help you make informed decisions about Catholic book purchases.

I receive free product samples as compensation for writing reviews for Tiber River.

Our Lord So Near

2010-05-15T18:11:00.000-04:00

Our Lord So Near

By: Jennifer Gladen

Can you hear Him among the noise?

Can His voice penetrate your life?

Can you hear the whisper in your ear?

That is the sound of our Lord so near.

Hear the sound, though so soft

Welcome His words, as they come

Breath of the Spirit touches your ear,

That is the Voice of our Lord so near.

Feel the calmness embrace your heart,

Feel the gentleness in His words,

Feel the warmth of the Spirit in your ear,

That is the Presence of our Lord so near.

A Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI by the Knights of Columbus

2010-04-14T10:06:00.000-04:00

As Editor-in-Chief of a Catholic centered magazine, I find the following prayer necessary to pass on. Please keep our Pope in your prayers as he is suffering during this time of persecution. May the Holy Sprirt give you strength, Pope Benedict. May Mary, together with Pope John Paul the Great in Heaven intercede on your behalf to Jesus for the strength to endure this time.

God Bless our Pope!

PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care, may he, as successor to the Apostle Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your church into a sacrament of unity, love and peace for all the world. Amen.

V. Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.

R. May the Lord preserve him, give him a long life, make him blessed upon the earth, and not hand him over to the power of his enemies.

V. May your hand be upon your holy servant.

R. And upon your son, whom you have anointed.

Our Father ... Hail Mary ... Glory Be...

Knights of Columbus

In Solidarity with our Holy Father

2010-04-05T14:20:00.000-04:00

Reflections of the Passion

By Jennifer Gladen

When I am Worried, I think of your Passion and am reminded it was out of worry for us that you endured the Cross.

When I am Sad, I think of your Passion and am reminded of the sadness which filled Mary’s heart at your suffering.

When I am Surprised, I think of your Passion and am reminded of your surprising courage and strength you showed.

When I am Excited, I think of your Passion and am reminded of the excitement yet to come when you return for us, O Lord.

When I am Happy, I think of your Passion and am reminded of the happiness you gained for us in Heaven.When I am Loving, I think of your Passion and am reminded of your words: "there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend."

Now I am grateful when I think of your Passion because I'm reminded after the cross comes the crown.

Priests that Inspire Us

2010-04-02T22:28:00.000-04:00

During one of our Lenten Talks in our parish this year and then again on Holy Thursday, our Pastor posed this question: Do you have a favorite priest and why is he your favorite? His point in posing the question was to get the faithful to reflect on ways their priests influenced them in their faith throughout their lives.

Many people mentioned priests who helped them in illness and times of death. Many had fond memories of CYO games. As I reflected on my life, there are two who have come to mind and they are both from my current parish. I don't know if that's because I didn't pay attention when I was younger or if it's because my biggest spiritual growth has occurred over the last 4 years. Regardless of the reason, the 2 who came to mind were Father Sullivan and Father Shenosky. Why? Because I always learned a valuable spiritual lesson from most of their homilies. I grew in my spirit what seems like a hundredfold since I've heard these priests preach. I truly believe God graced me with their work at the perfect time - during the beginning and the height of my growth.

We need to remember - especially in these times of trial for our priests - that they are a wonderful gift to us from Jesus Himself. They are here to lead us to Him. Whenever I get a chance to, I thank our parish priests for their wonderful preaching at Mass. They boosted my soul. They're leading me to Jesus. Like the gift Jesus gave to us on Good Friday around 2000 years ago - this is a gift which is impossible to repay. Instead of ridicule, we should thank and pray for our priests.

St. John Vianney, present our priests and their vocations to Jesus so that they have the strength and fortitude of the Holy Spirit while carrying out Jesus' instructions of so long ago.

Media is Quick to Cast the First Stone

2010-03-30T14:46:00.000-04:00

"Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone"
--John 8:7 NAB

This Bible verse has been swimming in my head lately. It seems that the media is ready to cast stones at the Catholic Church based on issues from the cleregy sex scandal to the Bishop's opposition to the Obama Health Care Bill. We need to remember the Church is the Bride of Christ. To attack the Church is to attack Jesus. Had he not suffered enough through his Passion and Crucifixion? Our duty as Christians is to spread the good news, and take care of the Church.

The sex scandal is a horrible thing and no child should ever have to endure such evil. What is disturbing is this doesn't just happen with the Catholic Church. This happens in other groups, with other Christians, in our families, in other religous groups, etc. The group with the least occurance? Believe it or not - the Catholic Church. It is UNCOMMON in the church, but you would never believe it based on the news reports.
To get a better perspective, check out these articles defending Mother Church:

Defense of Catholic Clergy

and

Here Comes Everybody

These points reiterate the bible verse mentioned in the beginning of this post: Let those who are without sin cast the first stone. Instead of creating more problems, we should pray. Pray for the victims. Pray for the parish priests, pray for the clergy involved. God heals. Yes - those involved in committing the crimes will be punished by the law - but even worse - they will have to face God with these sins. God is a loving God - and a just God. But what everyone involved needs is not MORE hurt - but more HEALING. Rid yourselves of the stones and arm yourselves with prayer. It's much more effective.

God Bless.

Feast of Saint Joseph

2010-03-19T12:52:00.000-04:00

On this feast of St. Joseph, the feast of the foster father of Jesus and a member of the Holy Family, America is battling laws on abortion. Is it fitting? Or is it a sign of hope from God? Only He knows this very minute.
Inspired by the world's events, I offer this prayer:

St. Joseph, pray for us.

St. Joseph, long ago you protected your son, Jesus, from the Slaughter of the Innocents. You risked your home and life in protection of your family and the Son whom God entrusted into your care.
Come to our aid now, where we are also facing the Slaughter of the Innocents. Protect our unborn children as you protected Jesus. Those who are lost in this battle, present them to our Lord to enjoy eternity forever. Guide decision makers and voters in choosing to respect life. I ask this through Christ our Lord, AMEN.

St. Joseph, pray for us.

Fr. Frank Pavone's Prayer for our Nathon's Health Care Reform

2010-03-16T09:26:00.000-04:00

Please Pray and Repost!

Prayer for our Nation's Health Care Reform

by Fr. Frank Pavone

Lord, Jesus, you are the Divine Physician,

And the source of all life and health.

Guide our nation at this critical moment,

As our government seeks health care reform.

Giver our elected officials the humility to know

That they are servants, not masters.

Give them the wisdom to realize

That every life has equal value.

Give them the strength to resist the idea

That some lives can be sacrificed to save others

Or that killing the unborn is a part of health care.

Give your people the courage to speak up

And to hold public officials accountable for their actions.

Save us, Lord Jesus, from a culture of death.

And let every reform in our public policy

Be based on the reform of our hearts and minds

In the light of your Gospel.

For you are Lord forever and ever. Amen

http://www.prolifeprayers.com/

The Divine Mercy Chaplet

2010-03-10T21:54:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite devotions other than the Rosary and talking to God in my own words is the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. The prayer itself is miraculous. Of course it is - it was given to Saint Faustina from Jesus himself.

One day, I was listening to EWTN Catholic Radio and the Divine Mercy Chaplet in song came on. It was and is the most beautiful song I've ever heard. It is produced by Trish Short and a sample of the song and a video can be found on www.divinemercyinsong.com .

The images in the video were wonderful. Some brought me to tears, others brought great comfort. Viewing the short part of the video reminded me of what Jesus did for us. Who else would love us that much? If we, His people, really reflect on what Jesus did to save us from ourselves, we would detest all sin. From the most minor ones to the most serious.

This Lenten season. let us reflect on what Jesus did for us. Let us remember it most when we are about to sin so that we can avoid that temptation. And while we're at it, we could always offer a chaplet. The greatest distraction from sin is prayer.

JESUS, I TRUST IN YOU!

My Latest Poem About God

2010-01-27T13:01:00.000-05:00

Our Sinking World
By: Jennifer Gladen

The world is melting before our eyes,
The heat of sin is scorching our lives.

Headed down a slippery slope,
Society cheers the diminishment of hope.

Abortion, divorce, and values waning,
Points for the Enemy, is what we’re gaining.

Stop! And Listen! Change your ways,
Unless you desire more perilous days.

God wants us with Him-beyond the skies,
We must see the world through only His eyes.

We’re taught to value such precious things,
As gold, jewels and fancy rings.

But they all fade away – what good will they do,
When your time is come and God judges you?

Turn your hearts, now, toward Him,
Avoid eternity laced with grim.

Live as Christ lived while He was here,
To bypass eternal pain and fear.

©2010 Jennifer Gladen

O Child of God

2010-01-25T10:25:00.000-05:00

O Child of God
By: Jennifer Gladen

My soul is weeping for what was to be.
My ears are piercing from laughter silenced.

My eyes are burning from tears of the lost.
My mouth is praying for the unborn tossed.

My heart is hoping an angel is guiding
The little ones to our Holy Mother true.

Mother Mary present those tiny souls to your Son.
Let them live in Peace and join the body of One.

Their short time of suffering causes great pain
And robs from the world what it could’ve gained.

Fly up to Heaven you child of God
And pray for all those who caused you such woes.

“Father forgive them, they know not what they do.”
For Jesus will say those words with you.

Dedicated to the millions children we’ll never see here.

© 2010 Jennifer Gladen

A Spiritual Bouquet to March for Life

2010-01-22T16:02:00.000-05:00

A Spiritual Bouquet to March for Life

Today, hundreds of thousands of people gathered to march on Washington DC for the annual March for Life. It occurs every year on the anniversary of the Roe V Wade decision legalizing abortions. March for life not only acts as a voice for the unborn, but also the elderly and all those facing end-of-life care and decisions.

As Editor-in-Chief of a Catholic Magazine, I was disappointed I couldn’t make the march this year. I still wanted to do something to show my full support for this cause as I watched on TV speakers, children, adults and others stand up for life.
In that moment I decided that prayers for these supporters and their cause will go a long way. They need the strength of the Holy Spirit to persevere for they are fighting for God and His children. Therefore, My Light Magazine decided we will present a spiritual bouquet to the March for Life Organization.

Please pledge your prayers in support of all the marchers in the March for Life. Send My Light your designated prayer and any short words of encouragement. Some great prayers are the Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Mass, etc.

We will collect all the prayer intentions and present them to the March for Life organization. Each pledge will be represented by an illustrated flower as part of the bouquet. We will list your name and your prayer pledge. If we have too many contributors, we will provide a list of all the prayer pledges along with a beautiful illustrated bouquet. Illustrator and My Light’s paper doll designer, Candace J Hardy will design the illustration for the bouquet.

The goal is if we can support the marchers with our prayers we are helping the cause. We are helping not only get their voices heard, but we are helping to save lives, including unborn children. Press release to soon follow.

To begin e-mailing your prayer pledges, send them to bouquet@mylightmagazine.com

God the Consoler

2009-12-30T09:44:00.000-05:00

A few nights ago I came across a video on You Tube for the song "Mary Did You Know?" It is a wonderful Christmas song contemplating what is in store for the Holy Family over the next 33 years. It consisted of scenes from a few movies, including Mel Gibson's "Passion of the Christ." I still have not seen the movie because I don't think I can handle it.

One short clip, taken from the "Passion of the Christ", was of the guards dragging away a battered Jesus after the Scourging at the Pillar. I admit, I am not strong enough to view these scenes. When I do, they often bother me for days. But, I am often consoled by God - usually in a dream.

This time it was last night. I had a dream I was among the crowds just before the crucifixion. I remember feeling distressed and I wanted to stop it. Then the events took a different turn from what we hear in the Bible. Everyone disappeared for a moment - or at least it seemed so. Then, as Jesus carried the cross, He turned to me and told me that this is God's plan for our salvation. He then led me to the exact spot where His cross would be placed.

Once again as in the dream I had over a year ago, I don't remember the words. It was like watching a silent movie and yet I understood everything He told me. I came away from the dream with the understanding that this is the way God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit wanted it.

I remember feeling better, but still concerned. Then He showed me what it might have been like even if everyone felt like I did. He showed me Him teaching the crowd that he must be crucified to fulfill God's plan. I think it was a dramatic display of God confirming that this is all part of His plan. Logically, I know that and always have. It's seeing Him in such a state that gets to me sometimes. He is our King and our God and that was what we did to Him.

But once again, God consoled my soul and brought peace to it. Just like the last time, I can't remember His words, but I'll never forget the peace He left me with. And when I let the peace fill my heart I remembered that the Crucifixion was NOT the end of the story. Jesus rising and opening the gates of Heaven for us was the final outcome of the Crucifixion. Now He lives in Glory forever - as our God and King should be.

Manhattan Declarationn of Christian Conscience

2009-11-22T08:41:00.000-05:00

A group of people from different denominations of Christianity banned together on Nov 20,2009 in objection to laws that attack such Christian values as: right to life, traditional family, faith and liberty.

They formed and signed a document titled the "Manhattan Declaration of Christian Conscience." These people remind us through their actions that even in a world with so much negativity, Christ's light is still there. His light of hope.

Please visit the webpage and read all about this important declaration. If you are as inspired as I was, consider adding your name to the list of signatures. Here's your chance to add your Christian voice: Do not force us to pay for vital issues against our beliefs. When we leave this world and face judgement, we will have to answer for all our actions.

Thank you to the brave people who created this declaration!

Never Underestimate the Rosary

2009-07-29T20:37:00.000-04:00

I try to make a habbit of saying the Rosary every night. I used to attempt it at the very end of the night and most of the time I would fall asleep. I'm pretty sure the reason is every time I say the Rosary, I'm filled with peace. A calm, worry free, relaxing peace. But because I have a hard time making it through the entire Rosary that late at night, I've been saying it a little earlier.

Tonight, my 4-year old son was having a hard time going to sleep. I chose to stay in the room with him until he settled down. I tried reading 4 of his favorite books to him. It worked for a second, but he was determined to stay up. His older sisters were awake. Why couldn't he stay up too? After attempting to read to him, I turned down the lights and sat very quiet. However, he took that time to try to convince me to let him stay awake.

Then I decided to say my Rosary. I started to say it quietly in my head, but it was hard with my son's fussiness. So, I said it aloud. I was up to the first decade when I decided to say my prayers out loud in front of my son. By the time I got to the second decade, he was silent and calmed down. He was amazingly peaceful for the entire Rosary. He listened intently, and became relaxed.

It's hard to tell when he actually fell asleep, but to be sure, I started a second set of mysteries. After the second decade I stopped, for he was surely asleep.

I pray the Rosary as often as I can and it never ceases to amaze me. This is the most powerful prayer in the world. It has calmed me after severe hurtful situations, it always brings peace to my heart, and now I've wittnessed it bring peace to my son's heart.

If you've neglected your Rosary ( as I have until about 1 1/2 years ago), consider picking it up. You'll be glad you did.

Prayers For Writers - a New Blog

2009-07-15T11:48:00.000-04:00

Once again I feel I was inspired by the Holy Spirit. Small prayer-like lines filled my head - all of which had to do with authors. I started writing them down. That's when I chose to start a new blog Prayers for Writers at http://prayers4writers.blogspot.com . They aren't too elaborate, just words of inspiration and asking of God's guidance as we teach through our words. Head on over and check it out sometime.

Our Lady of America

2009-07-09T16:54:00.000-04:00

To me, the apparitions of Our Lady of America to Sister Mildred Mary Neuzil are a new concept. I may have come across the title in other research before, but never really learned about it. Then, one morning in my mailbox was a free copy of a newsletter all about our Lady of America.

It was quite an interesting read, however, we have been warned by Jesus himself of any false prophets. So, with skepticism I did some research about these apparitions and found conflicting information. Some places I've read that it has been approved. Other places say there has been no decision. Either way, the message is about love.

It's funny, but here in America, you would think we'd hear more about her and her messages. There was nothing sensational about the visions. It appeared to me to be a repetition of what she's always been asking all humanity: consecration to her heart, love, accepting God' s Mercy and living for God.

There were times during these apparitions where Mary was sad. I often wonder what she is feeling. How awful it must be to watch as her children harm themselves. The only thing I can compare it to, which doesn't even come close, is any mother standing by helplessly as their child self destructs.

Mary keeps visiting us for a reason. She is our mother and wants us to survive. But we can only survive if we want to. He has given us the gift of Free Will. You can't help those who don't want to help themselves.

Let's accept God's offerings of grace and Mercy. Love God. Live for Him. Don't just know who he is and like it. Love who He is and Love Him. Love him through your thoughts, actions, words and deeds. He is our Father and wants us to be with Him.

Praying for the Sick

2009-06-16T12:49:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite prayers is the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Ever since I learned about it, I make it a point to pray it when I know of someone who is ill. Jesus taught this chaplet to Saint Faustina. He told her to pray it when someone is dying, and they will receive His mercy at their time of death.

Since I'm never sure of how things will go, whenever I hear of someone becoming ill I offer the chaplet. This past Saturday, my Father-in-law had a heart attack. My Mother-in-law called us as they were on the way to the hospital. My husband left the house and joined them. I was home with the children, so I did what I could and offered the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. I often feel at peace when I finish the Chaplet. My husband returned home hours later and reported that his father survived the heart attack. He was in the ICU in the hospital recovering. While there are still many things the doctors must attend to, I view this survival as a miracle.

Usually the Chaplet is helpful in death, but I often wonder if it had to do with my Father-in-law's survival. Was this a second chance at life? While nobody knows for sure what role the Chaplet played in this incident, I am sure that it was as helpful as it has always been. God hears our prayers. And as long as it is in line with His Will, He answers those prayers.

Thank you Jesus for hearing my prayers.

**********************************************

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

Crucifix - 1 Our Father

Then say:

1 Apostles' Creed, Hail Mary and Glory Be

On all the Our Father Beads before each decade of the Rosary, say this prayer:

Eternal Father, I offer you the Body and the Blood of you dearly beloved Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

On all the Hail Mary beads say this prayer:

For the sake of His Sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

After the final prayer in the 5th decade repeat this prayer 3 times:

Holy God,Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One , have mercy on us and on the whole world.

A Special Thank You for Brave Bishops

2009-06-05T15:34:00.000-04:00

It warms my heart to see such good in a world surrounded by darkness. There were 83 Bishops who spoke out against President Obama's attendance at the Notre Dame graduation. As with all witnesses for Jesus, these brave men risked ridicule, persecution, and their reputation in order to promote the Catholic Teachings. They endured many trials, but their support enforced the passionate students who value their faith.

When I see thngs like this, it proves there's still good in this world.

As a special thank you, the Cardinal Newman Society presented a Spiritual Boquet to the 83 Bishops who spoke out agains t the Notre Dame Scandal.

Click here. to see a copy of the Spiritual Bouquet Certificate sent to the bishop.

Click LifeSiteNews.com. to see the list of all 83 Bishops.

The overwhelming prayer response in the spiritual bouquet includes:

Mass Intentions: 116,741

Divine Mercy Chaplets: 74,974

Aspirations: 57,728

General Prayers: 236,615

Eucharistic Holy Hours: 37,125

Holy Rosaries: 146,944

Novenas: 19,877

Days of Fasting: 28,862

In addition to these prayers, Catholic priests offered 3,272 Holy Sacrifices of the Mass for the bishops.

Love Your Enemies

2009-04-30T08:38:00.000-04:00

"Love your enemies." Sometimes those words are like high-pitched screeches to my ears. Especially when I've been "attacked" by my neighbor. The last thing I want to do is pray for them.

Our family just had an incident with our neighbor. They constantly harass us and find ways to add stress to our already stressful life.

My initial reaction is to want to return the favor. But then I listen. I listen to a smaller -yet powerful voice that tells me doing so is not what Christ would do. How many times did people spit at him and hit him and mock him during his crucifixion? As he told his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane, "Do you not think I could call upon the choirs of angels?"

This tells us that He accepted his suffering and did not hurt his enemies. He followed His own golden rule: "Treat others as you'd have done to you." How lucky we are to have such a perfect role model!

When we are asked to pray for our enemies, it is God's will that we do so. He loves all of us - no matter what we do. Some people need a ton of prayers to turn their hearts fully to God. Usually there aren't many people praying for them because of how they treat others. To us, it might not be a terrible loss. But to God - it is a huge loss. One of his creatures needs prayers. He loves them as He loves all of us. Because of that, we should do all we can to offer our prayers for their salvation.

After all, even as He walked the earth, Jesus said he was also here for the sinners. They need Him more than anyone.

Sure, these thoughts don't make the hurt go away. And praying for the enemies may or may not turn their hearts toward God. But at least we are doing what God asks of us. The rest is up to them. They need to want to have Him in their lives. Not just believe in Him, but live Him also.
And we all need prayers to continue to live Jesus' teachings and His will.

Offer a Rosary with Notre Dame

2009-04-15T10:51:00.000-04:00

As Editor-in-chief of a Catholic centered magazine, I feel it is my duty to help in anyway I can for the cause of the Notre Dame Response. Students are in an uproar because the president of the university is going to honor pro-choice president Barak Obama on graduation day. Not only will he speak there, he will be given an honorary degree in Law.

While it is our duty to treat others as a brother and sister, it is also our duty to stand up for our beliefs. Many students of Notre Dame are so distressed that they are contemplating not attending their own graduation.

One thing they are planning, which I fond quite honorable, is a goal to say 1 million Rosaries for Barak Obama - to have a conversion of heart, etc. Jesus did tell us to pray for our "enemies". It is easy to pray for those we love.

If you would like to offer a rosary and help the students of Notre Dame, click here. You can tell them about a Rosary you have said for these intentions, and I think you can even pledge as well.

The Rosary is a wondrous prayer. Thank you for considering this.

How Great Thou Art

2009-04-14T09:39:00.000-04:00

Twice in the last few weeks I've seen a marvelous work of art from none other than God Himself.

The first was a powerful rainbow shown to us a few weeks ago. The sky was as dark as night and it was raining. At the same time, there was also the sun breaking through. The result was the most vivid rainbow I have ever seen. I didn't have my camera with me, so I could not get the picture of the whole arc of the rainbow. I did get one when we got home, but the picture did not do the rainbow justice.

Another work of art was captured by NASA. It looks like a large hand reaching for a glowing crown of thorns. Some say it takes an imagination to see that. I don't know. To me, it's as obvious as the nose on your face. I am in awe of this beautiful creation. Check out this picture. Click the picture to view the story.

Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
Picture taken by NASA

This photo encourages many thoughts in me. Skeptics might say that it's just nature, a natural act expected to occur in the vastness of outer space. I think that it is a message for us. One of hope. One of warning. One of a reminder.

Hope - That God is still here. He is still with us. Every once in a while, it seems, humanity needs to be reassured of this. Especially in these time when wrong choices are being made at will. I find it very fitting that the picture is circulating right around the Easter holidays.

Warning - That we should not forget about God and His commandments. So much wrong is going on in the world now - terrorism, abortions, stealing, cheating, broken families.. Eventually we all will be judged according to our actions. Could this be a warning? God is with us, but he's also watching us -aware of all the good --and bad, we do.

Reminder - That God loves us. He was with us in the beginning of time, He was with us in Jesus' time and He is with us now. He loves us and wants us to be with Him in Heaven. Of course, the choice is ours. If we choose the wrong path, it will not lead us to God in Heaven.

2009-03-23T13:43:00.000-04:00

This is a story about a wonderful dream I had just about a year ago. I wrote about it when I had a blog on Yahoo 360. It's so beautiful, that I wanted to share it here as well. God Bless!

*****

Wednesday night (March 27, 2008) I had a dream that I was with Jesus. I didn't see Him, but I felt Him. I can only explain it like this: I didn't need to see Him to know he was there.

We were surrounded by a refreshing bright light (though I didn't find it blinding), the sand was golden, the sky a clean clear blue. We sat on white stone benches close to the ground. A tall stone wall was nearby.

I became aware that Jesus was speaking to me, but I didn't hear with my ears. It was more with my heart. I can't spell out word for word what He said to me - but my soul felt peace.

It's been months since I had that dream and it's still as crystal clear as ever. Every night when I drift off to sleep, I hope to meet Jesus in my dreams again.

What'sYour Lenten Promise?

2009-03-10T21:44:00.000-04:00

Last year about this time, I had a conversion of heart. It was during Lent and I was touched every time I went to Mass and paid attention to what was being taught. Shortly after that, I started to go to daily Mass, pray the Rosary almost daily and read the Bible. Instantly my life seemed to be going so much better. Maybe it was because I was so in tune with my relationship with God. Things were going well and I felt very strong, like no matter what the enemy tried to throw at me, I could turn away.

Then November happened. A family problem exploded and I literally dropped everything I was doing to work on this problem. I felt that if I didn't, my family would fall apart. There's still trouble now and then, but things seem to be looking up.

I wish I could say the same about my efforts with my relationship with God. I didn't intentionally "leave" Him. But yet I still feel so far away. I know a big part of it is due to not saying the Rosary or reading the Bible as much.

That's why this Lent I want to get back into my routine again. Attend Daily Mass, Pray the Rosary, Read the Bible. I know it will take time, but am confident that if I'm persistent, my goal will be reached.

Beautiful Prayers

2009-02-11T22:42:00.000-05:00

Every Choir practice I attend begins and ends with a prayer. Tonight's ending prayer was very nice. Our leader just finished practicing the last song with us, and continuted to play the music as we stood in prayer. There's something beautiful and touching about saying a prayer and our intentions while soft church music is playing.

Occasionally, we do this just after we sing the "Our Father" at Mass on Sundays. The music keeps playing softly as the priest says a blessing. After the blessing we continue singing, "For the kingdom, the power ... "

These things are wonderful spiritual experiences. You just want it to continue on forever. Each time I encounter this I feel myself growing. Music and prayer - the perfect way to worship God.

The Miraculous Prayer

2009-02-07T10:52:00.000-05:00

We pray often. God is always listening to us. However, there is a special prayer given to us by Our Lady - the Holy Rosary. Just the make-up of the Rosary makes it special. We include the prayer Jesus taught us so long ago( The Our Father - Matthew 6 9-13), and we use lines from the Bible about Mary: "Hail Mary full of Grace. The Lord is with You."(Luke 1:28) "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." (Luke 1:42).

I try to make a habit of praying the Rosary everyday, but I often fall short. When I do, I'm always filled with peace. Many times when I am upset, I am filled with the deepest sense of peace by the time I finish this prayer. This is true especially after an argument with a family member. The Rosary has helped me focous on what was important in life, not who is wrong or right. It is an amazing feeling. I've often felt that I had been consoled by my mother. I guess that's true. I was being consoled by my Heavenly Mother, who not only made me feel better, but instilled a little wisdom along the way. Pray the Rosary...you'll be glad you did!

Judge Not

2009-01-16T10:25:00.000-05:00

Today I saw someone who was just pulled over by the police --probably a routine traffic stop. I thought to myself, "What a way to start the day." Thoughts were running through my head. The first thought was about the driver of the car. I thought how he should have followed the traffic rules. Then I thought more about that. The first thought was true, however we are also told not to judge each other.

Something inside told me this man needed some prayers. I wondered what this guy's life was like. Was he rushing off to work? Did he just not see the stop sign? Was this the first event in a really bad day? I decided that no matter what the situation is, even if the man intentionally broke the traffic law, that I should offer him a prayer. Maybe the prayer would help this man have a better day or make him see the need for traffic laws.

As we drove by, I said a silent Hail Mary, Our Father and Glory Be with the intention to help this man have a better day. Somehow in my soul I knew these prayers would be answered. Even though I wouldn't be able to see the results of my prayers, I knew in my heart that I helped make this man's day a little brighter. That alone filled up my heart with joy. I found a way to change my heart from a judging one to a praying one.

January 6: The Feast of the Epiphany

2009-01-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite parts of Christmas (other than the birth of Jesus) is the feast of the Epiphany. That is when the Wise Men visited Jesus in the manger. It's an amazing story of faith, wisdom and adoration. As the Wise Men were not Jews, the story also represents how Jesus was sent here for the Gentiles as well. He came here to save us all. It's up to us to accept it or not.

All Hope Is Not Lost

2008-12-08T10:06:00.000-05:00

My husband took me and the girls out to breakfast this morning. There's a cute diner that we visit sometimes. Today we were seated at a nice booth. The diner was all dec'd out with Christmas decorations, garland, santas, winter themes. Then I saw something wonderful. On the ledge directly behind our booth was a lovely Nativity Scene.

A few years ago many people would expect that. But with all the efforts by others to erase God from our country, seeing a Nativity scene in a public place other than Church is rare anymore. It warmed my heart to see it. This gives me hope that there are still people in this world who always will love and respect God - whether it's a popular decision or not. This was just the message of hope I needed this week.

What a Blessing Written June 6, 2008

2008-11-18T13:40:00.000-05:00

Every morning, I walk my daughters to their Catholic school, then visit the church for the 8:00 mass. The other day on the way to school we saw a small dog wandering without a leash. It was evident he was a lost dog, and when he approached me I checked his tags. I was caught in a dilemma. Do I find the dog's home and make the girls late? I couldn't leave him there in good conscience due to the risk of him being hit by a car.
A few neighbors on their way to church approached us and helped. One neighbor in particular offered to sacrifice her mass that day and help the dog.
I was grateful, but also felt guilty. To miss Mass - especially if you were really looking forward to it- can be a let down.
So as soon as I dropped the girls off, I went into church and prayed for my neighbor. I asked God to bless her - to double any blessings she would have received from today's Mass.
A priest visiting our parish was the celebrant. When it came time for Holy Communion, he offered not only the host, but the wine as well. In my experience the Church only distributes the wine on certain occasions such as Holy Thursday. I had recently asked an expert friend of mine about this very issue.
I think about that day often and always wonder: Was that God's way of showing his approval of my prayer for my neighbor?
God is always with us and He speaks to us in more ways than one. I felt very blessed that day. May all of you experience many blessings as well.

It's Only $1.49 Written May 28, 2008

2008-11-18T13:31:00.000-05:00

That's what someone told me last night. He was referring to the magnet of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which I bought yesterday. When I took it out of the bag, I noticed there were two magnets. I checked the receipt and saw that they only charged me for one. There was that voice in my head that told me it was only $1.49 and nobody would miss it. But still, it wasn't honest to keep it and not pay for it.
When I told my family where I was going, I was questioned on why I would go all the way back to the store to pay $1.49. The truth was I just didn't feel right about keeping something I didn't pay for.
So I brought my daughter with me ( she is 6 and loves Jesus with all her heart. She loves the religious store.) When I went to the cashier, she was shocked, but happy that we returned and paid.
I gained more than a magnet for my $1.49. Even though the trip was out of our way and an inconvenience, I gained a free conscience. I taught my children that honesty is important - no matter how big or small the element is in question.
I've often prayed that my children will grow up and continue the Catholic morals I'm teaching them now. I'm sure by being a positive example, as described above, will help that mission.

Sunny and Scooby Written May 12, 2008

2008-11-18T13:26:00.000-05:00

We adopted a new kitten this weekend. After running through names like Tootsie Roll, Precious, and Winter, we decided to name him Sunny.
As you can see, Sunny made himself right at home. We thought the dog would give Sunny trouble, but it looks like Scooby ( the dog) is Sunny's unofficial surrogate.
Now, if a kitten and a puppy can put their differences aside and get along, why can't the rest of the world do the same?

Check out My Light Magazine

2008-11-18T13:19:00.000-05:00

I've started a Christian (more specifically Catholic) E-Zine for children. The purpose is to draw the children closer to God through fun stories, articles crafts and poems.
My latest project keeps me very busy. Below is a link to our website for anyone who would like to submit.At this time we are a non paying market, but we will have a full contributor's page that will list your bio and links (along with other contributors' information) as a token of our appreciation.
http://mylightmagazine.com/

The latest issue is the November 2008 issue. It is packed with stories, articles, poems, and puzzles involving Thanksgiving. Don't forget to check out the craft and the Paper Dolls either. Have fun checking it out.

Pleas feel free to pass the link around.Also, please join our yahoo list
for updates of anything new going on with the publication:http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MYLIGHT/

The Power of Prayer Written April 29, 2008

2008-11-18T13:16:00.000-05:00

Every day I am in awe of the awesome wonders of prayer. I always had a basic faith in prayer. I knew it was a way to communicate with God and to show our acknowledgment of Him. But for years I was missing out on so much more. Prayer is good for us as well as good for our relationship with God. Ever since I made a habit of praying the Rosary every day, I feel blessed more than ever.
I thought my heart wasn't hardened, yet each time I pray I feel something lifting in my heart. It is like watching a craftsman chipping away at a rocky exterior.
The most significant example of this is my interaction with my next door neighbor. She's elderly and a very animate person. Kids in the neighborhood view her as the "grumpy one." I asked a friend who is studying to be a priest, "What can I do? I'm trying to be Christian, but it is so hard towards her."
His answer: Pray for her. So simple, yet it hadn't crossed my mind. I then spoke to a very close friend of mine, one who I consider a wonderful spiritual adviser. She agreed that praying for my neighbor would help.
I have to admit, I was doubtful at the time. Even though I know deep down that it is never impossible for God to change anyone, I just couldn't see it happening with this person. However, I did include her in my prayers that night. Shortly after that I began praying the Rosary and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy every night.
Then the incredible happened. Yesterday, my "grumpy" neighbor rang my doorbell. My first thought was, "Oh no." However, the minute she spoke, my guard disappeared. She was asking me if we could park our car across the street the next day because she's having cement work done. The amazing part is - she asked nicely. I didn't see the face of stone I have seen for years. This is a big deal. The bigger miracle was that both of us were civil and kind to each other.
Who knows. Maybe next time she might not be so nice - but this is a huge start. For both of us. Never doubt what prayer can do. Pray every day. Make God not just someone to chat with every once in a while. Make Him part of your everyday life. He's with us all the time.

The Power of Prayer!

2008-11-14T22:33:00.000-05:00

We had a family party to celebrate my daughter's First Holy Communion this Saturday. I was weaving through people so as not to disturb them while I made my way across the room. There was a curio on our one wall. In an attempt to sneak by somebody, I tried to duck under the curio, however my shoulder hit it and it came crashing down. Somehow it missed my head and hit the floor instead.
As I've mentioned before, I become more and more spiritual everyday. Recently, I've begun praying the Rosary and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy in addition to reading the Bible daily. I'm already seeing a change in myself. These things have helped me let go of the unimportant little things -- making more room for God. Did some of my praying help me avoid being hit by the curio this Saturday? I think so.

Welcome!

2008-11-14T22:19:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my spiritual blog. I'm dedicating this blog to God, as He has given me so many blessings to write about. It will be a mix of sharing these blessing with you and also of other things pertaining to my Catholic faith. The blog originally was on Yahoo 360, but I chose to move it to Blogger. To get started, I will share those posts here as well.

IT is said if you listen close enough, you can "hear" God speaking to you through your heart. Over the last few years, my spirituality has grown tenfold. I'm aware of His presence now more than ever. Maybe tonight, before you go to bed, and all is quiet, see if you can "hear" Him too. It's a blessing!