I was going to go in search of a New Year's Prayer to post for this weekend, but instead I thought I'd go more simple.
Dear God,
This year, please help me to know what you want me to do and please give me the strength to do it.
Amen.
I wish you all a very Happy New Year. May 2012 be a happy and blessed one for each of you!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Prayer to St. Jude for the Depressed
I was cleaning out my prayer drawer today and came across this prayer. It seemed particularly appropriate for this time of year which is so difficult for those of us who suffer from depression. (Thankfully, I've been doing better than I usually am this time of year, but I know the darkness can settle in at any moment. I'm taking life one day at a time.)
St. Jude, friend to those in need, I am weary from grief, without joy, without hope, struggling through the dark night of the soul. I turn to you, most trusted friend. Take away this emptiness and the pain of my broken heart. In your compassion, wipe away the tears and carry me to a place of peace. Too long have I been blind to the goodness of God's world. Heal me. I yearn to feel, to bathe in light and joy. Envelop me in brightness and do not hold back. And I promise, if you should see me fit to receive these gifts, I will share them always. Amen.
St. Jude, friend to those in need, I am weary from grief, without joy, without hope, struggling through the dark night of the soul. I turn to you, most trusted friend. Take away this emptiness and the pain of my broken heart. In your compassion, wipe away the tears and carry me to a place of peace. Too long have I been blind to the goodness of God's world. Heal me. I yearn to feel, to bathe in light and joy. Envelop me in brightness and do not hold back. And I promise, if you should see me fit to receive these gifts, I will share them always. Amen.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Support for Caregivers
If you or someone you love is a caregiver, the Friends of St. John the Caregiver offers a wealth of free information to help - available both online and in paper form.
Here is just a sampling of the topics covered at YourAgingParent.com:http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
The Stages of Caregiving
Alcoholism and Aging
Dealing with Caregiver and Care-receiver Anger
Helping Your Parent to Give Up the Car Keys
In Case of an Emergency or a Disaster
Dealing with Caregiver Guilt
If You Are a Long-Distance Caregiver
When You're Married to the Caregiver
When Mom or Dad Moves In
The Stations of the Cross for Caregivers
The Role of Spirituality in a Caregiver's Life
Taking Care of a Crabby or Formerly Abusive Parent
Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Here is just a sampling of the topics covered at YourAgingParent.com:http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
The Stages of Caregiving
Alcoholism and Aging
Dealing with Caregiver and Care-receiver Anger
Helping Your Parent to Give Up the Car Keys
In Case of an Emergency or a Disaster
Dealing with Caregiver Guilt
If You Are a Long-Distance Caregiver
When You're Married to the Caregiver
When Mom or Dad Moves In
The Stations of the Cross for Caregivers
The Role of Spirituality in a Caregiver's Life
Taking Care of a Crabby or Formerly Abusive Parent
Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Monday, December 26, 2011
Searching for Gregorian Masses?
I was on the Divine Mercy Shrine in Stockbridge, MA website to request a Mass for my friend that needs healing, and I discovered that they offer Gregorian Masses as well!
Gregorian Masses are thirty Masses offered for the repose of the soul of someone who has died. My mother had them said for her father when he died and she requested that I do the same for her and my father when their time comes. I figured when that day came, I would do an on-line search and find a place to send away for them. I am so excited to discover that they are available at the Divine Mercy Shrine because that is truly one of my most favorite places.
To find out more about Gregorian Masses and their availability at the Shrine, please visit https://secure.marianweb.net/marian.org/mass/gregorian.php
Gregorian Masses are thirty Masses offered for the repose of the soul of someone who has died. My mother had them said for her father when he died and she requested that I do the same for her and my father when their time comes. I figured when that day came, I would do an on-line search and find a place to send away for them. I am so excited to discover that they are available at the Divine Mercy Shrine because that is truly one of my most favorite places.
To find out more about Gregorian Masses and their availability at the Shrine, please visit https://secure.marianweb.net/marian.org/mass/gregorian.php
Prayer Request
One of my dearest friends (she has been my friend since we were six. Today we only talk a few times a year, but we are still very close) is going through a very tough time right now. She called me last night for Christmas and told me she had just been released from the hospital after spending 3 weeks there. She is suffering from both mental and physical illnesses, and recently lost her job as well. She could really use some prayers. Thank you!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Merry Christmas
I wish all of you a very Merry and Blessed Christmas.(The painting is "Kissing the Face of God" by Liz Lemon Swindle)
Book Review: A Lancaster County Christmas
Lancaster County Christmas, A
by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Grand Rapids: Revell Publishing, 2011
Even though I traveled to Lancaster County last year and found it to be absolutely nothing like I had imagined, I still enjoy reading Amish fiction, and "A Lancaster County Christmas" did not disappoint. Jaime first encounters the Amish family that will change her life at a doctor's office. She is there seeking a prescription for sleeping pills to help her bury the grief she feels at the loss of her mother. Mattie is there because she has recently miscarried and is suffering the pain of not having another child. Mattie's son Danny is six years old and happy to talk to anyone who would listen. He and Jaime forge a connection over an owl whistle. When Danny leaves it behind in the office, the doctor asks her to please return it to the family.
Jaime's whole life is on the rocks, totally upended by her mother's death. Her marriage is suffering and she just quit her job. Never very religious, she feels threatened by her husband C.J.'s new found faith. In light of recent events, she and God are definitely not on speaking terms. Mattie has a deep faith, but she can't shake her sadness and finds herself overly protective of the child she does have. She worries about everything and no matter how hard she tries, can't find peace.
When Jaime's car slides into a pond on Mattie's property and a large snowstorm hits, the two families are thrown together for Christmas. Over the course of the holiday, miracles will happen, hearts will warm, and faith in God will be rediscovered.
People, myself included, enjoy Amish fiction because it emphasizes getting back to basics and appreciating simple joys. My favorite line from the book comes from Mattie's husband Sol. He is praying after breakfast and says "The days available to say a kind word to someone this year are rapidly drawing to a close. Lord God, teach us to be kind." That's a good message to take with us every day of the year.
This is a feel-good book. A short book, it is a compelling story that offers a touch of mystery that will keep you turning pages and leave you smiling at its conclusion.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
In our Homeschooling World Today . . .
I know it isn't Christmas related, but we had a fun science class today dissecting a cow's heart. I teach 5th grade science to my two boys and two of their friends each week. We have been using the Behold and See book from Catholic Heritage Curricula and this was one of the activities for Chapter 5. I had never done anything like this before and it was really very interesting. (one of the perks of homeschooling is that I get to learn new things, too!)
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Finding Joy This Christmas
This quote comes courtesy of Monsignor David Joyce writing at www.cursillowmass.org.
Joy is a gift. But it is also a virtue, which we can develop and nourish. When we see it in others, we know it's there, although we're hard pressed to define and describe it. . . The joyful person has within himself a core conviction: God is present - his Son nourishes me - the Spirit guides me - what more do I need?
How do I get that joy? Can I buy it? Isn't that sometimes the temptation of Christmas - if we have enough "stuff," everybody will be joyful. Experience has taught most of us that the opposite is often true.
Most importantly, we can pray for that gift, and then we can nourish it by thanksgiving - gratitude for life - my own and the lives of those whom I love and who love me - despite our shortcomings. . .
And so when I wish you a merry and joyful Christmas, I'm not wishing you something external to yourself. No, I'm hoping you'll open your heart to the Son of God, Jesus, who already makes his home within you, and who is your source of joy - in this season and always.
Joy is a gift. But it is also a virtue, which we can develop and nourish. When we see it in others, we know it's there, although we're hard pressed to define and describe it. . . The joyful person has within himself a core conviction: God is present - his Son nourishes me - the Spirit guides me - what more do I need?
How do I get that joy? Can I buy it? Isn't that sometimes the temptation of Christmas - if we have enough "stuff," everybody will be joyful. Experience has taught most of us that the opposite is often true.
Most importantly, we can pray for that gift, and then we can nourish it by thanksgiving - gratitude for life - my own and the lives of those whom I love and who love me - despite our shortcomings. . .
And so when I wish you a merry and joyful Christmas, I'm not wishing you something external to yourself. No, I'm hoping you'll open your heart to the Son of God, Jesus, who already makes his home within you, and who is your source of joy - in this season and always.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Feast of St. Peter Canisius
December 21st is the feast day of St. Peter Canisius (1521 - 1597).
Here is a quote by him which seems particularly appropriate for this time of year:
If you have too much to do, with God's help you will find time to do it all.
Here is a quote by him which seems particularly appropriate for this time of year:
If you have too much to do, with God's help you will find time to do it all.
Two New Saints to be Named!
Pope Benedict XVI advanced the sainthood causes of Blessed Marianne Cope of Molokai and Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha.
During a meeting Dec. 19 with Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation for Saints' Causes, the pope signed the decrees recognizing the miracles needed for the canonizations of Blesseds Marianne and Kateri.
Before a date is set for the canonization ceremonies, there must be an "ordinary public consistory," a formal ceremony opened and closed with prayer, during which cardinals present in Rome express their support for the pope's decision to create new saints.
Blessed Marianne, who worked as a teacher and hospital administrator in New York, spent the last 30 years of her life ministering on the Hawaiian island of Molokai to those with leprosy. She died on the island in 1918 at age 80 and was beatified in St. Peter's Basilica in 2005.
Blessed Kateri, known as the Lily of the Mohawks, was born to a Christian Algonquin mother and a Mohawk father in 1656 in upstate New York along the Hudson River. She was baptized by a Jesuit missionary in 1676 when she was 20, and she died in Canada four years later. In June 1980, she became the first Native American to be beatified.
From The Vatican News Service
During a meeting Dec. 19 with Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation for Saints' Causes, the pope signed the decrees recognizing the miracles needed for the canonizations of Blesseds Marianne and Kateri.
Before a date is set for the canonization ceremonies, there must be an "ordinary public consistory," a formal ceremony opened and closed with prayer, during which cardinals present in Rome express their support for the pope's decision to create new saints.
Blessed Marianne, who worked as a teacher and hospital administrator in New York, spent the last 30 years of her life ministering on the Hawaiian island of Molokai to those with leprosy. She died on the island in 1918 at age 80 and was beatified in St. Peter's Basilica in 2005.
Blessed Kateri, known as the Lily of the Mohawks, was born to a Christian Algonquin mother and a Mohawk father in 1656 in upstate New York along the Hudson River. She was baptized by a Jesuit missionary in 1676 when she was 20, and she died in Canada four years later. In June 1980, she became the first Native American to be beatified.
From The Vatican News Service
Monday, December 19, 2011
An Art Museum in a Book
I saw The Art Museum
today and just had to blog about it! It's an art museum in a book. Oversized (3 feet across when open) and weighing over 17 pounds, it features over 2,500 large images of works of art.
This volume contains an unprecedented wealth of masterworks spanning three millennia and culled from 650 museums, galleries and private collections from 60 countries. It is organized by innovative color-coded, galleries, rooms, corridors and special exhibitions, which display the paintings, sculptures, frescos, photographs, tapestries, friezes, installations, performances, videos, woodblock prints, folding screens, ceramics and manuscripts that tell the history of world art.
It's not too late to order this book as a Christmas present for the art lover in your life. It would also be wonderful for a classroom. It retails for $200, but Amazon is selling it for half price!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
The Wait is Almost Over
“I can’t take waiting any more!” My nine-year-old son emphatically announced. “I want to open my presents.”
“But that is what Advent is for. It is a time of waiting,” I responded, attempting to reinforce a bit of religious instruction in the midst of the whining.
“Advent is twenty-eight days of torture!”
I don’t think that he actually believes that Advent is torture. After all, we do lots of fun things during Advent to prepare for Christmas. But, I do understand where he is coming from. As a child, December seemed an interminable stretch of days. Time moved in slow-motion. It seemed to take so long for each candle on the Advent wreath to be lit. Would Christmas ever come? It takes time to realize that the waiting can actually be part of the joy. Anticipating an event and preparing for it can sometimes be just as exciting as the event itself!
My children don’t have much longer to wait, even though they might think that they do. As an adult, Advent seems to pass by in a blur each year. My life is in a constant state of fast-forward. How can it be time to get ready for Christmas already? Didn’t we just do this?
In light of this phenomenon, I can’t honestly say that I wait for Christmas day any more. Still, from a spiritual perspective, I know what it is to wait. I wait for answers to prayers, for healing for all those who are hurting in some way, for peace in my family and in the world, and for the type of joy that is everlasting. I know that the coming of December 25th won’t end the waiting for those types of wishes, even though in my life I have been blessed by at least a couple of Christmas miracles.
Yet, instead of viewing the wait as something painful, I can look forward with anticipation. I know that in God’s time, all my dreams will be fulfilled. In light of eternity, the wait isn’t long at all. God became man to save us from sin, to reopen the doors of heaven for us, to bring us peace, and healing, and joy. That tiny baby in the manger offers the answer to all of our deepest desires. We simply need to trust, and hope, and wait.
I wish you all a very blessed Christmas.
“But that is what Advent is for. It is a time of waiting,” I responded, attempting to reinforce a bit of religious instruction in the midst of the whining.
“Advent is twenty-eight days of torture!”
I don’t think that he actually believes that Advent is torture. After all, we do lots of fun things during Advent to prepare for Christmas. But, I do understand where he is coming from. As a child, December seemed an interminable stretch of days. Time moved in slow-motion. It seemed to take so long for each candle on the Advent wreath to be lit. Would Christmas ever come? It takes time to realize that the waiting can actually be part of the joy. Anticipating an event and preparing for it can sometimes be just as exciting as the event itself!
My children don’t have much longer to wait, even though they might think that they do. As an adult, Advent seems to pass by in a blur each year. My life is in a constant state of fast-forward. How can it be time to get ready for Christmas already? Didn’t we just do this?
In light of this phenomenon, I can’t honestly say that I wait for Christmas day any more. Still, from a spiritual perspective, I know what it is to wait. I wait for answers to prayers, for healing for all those who are hurting in some way, for peace in my family and in the world, and for the type of joy that is everlasting. I know that the coming of December 25th won’t end the waiting for those types of wishes, even though in my life I have been blessed by at least a couple of Christmas miracles.
Yet, instead of viewing the wait as something painful, I can look forward with anticipation. I know that in God’s time, all my dreams will be fulfilled. In light of eternity, the wait isn’t long at all. God became man to save us from sin, to reopen the doors of heaven for us, to bring us peace, and healing, and joy. That tiny baby in the manger offers the answer to all of our deepest desires. We simply need to trust, and hope, and wait.
I wish you all a very blessed Christmas.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Do the Next Right Thing
Lots of people talk about the importance of making plans in life - the five year plan, the ten year plan, etc. I've never had much luck with those, however. Sure, I have dreams of what I'd like to do and accomplish, but then life (God?) happens and I end up on a different road.
Therefore, I like the idea of doing the next right thing. Often, that is as far down the road as I can see.
This was a quote from Joyful Meditations for Every Day of Advent
for today:
Our best first remedy is prayer. Asking God to show us the next right thing to do helps us to get unstuck, stop feeling sorry for ourselves, find clarity in our thinking, bring order to our lives, and treat others with respect and dignity. We might need to ask God to show us the next right thing to do a hundred times a day.
Therefore, I like the idea of doing the next right thing. Often, that is as far down the road as I can see.
This was a quote from Joyful Meditations for Every Day of Advent
for today: Our best first remedy is prayer. Asking God to show us the next right thing to do helps us to get unstuck, stop feeling sorry for ourselves, find clarity in our thinking, bring order to our lives, and treat others with respect and dignity. We might need to ask God to show us the next right thing to do a hundred times a day.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Homeschool Connections Offering Free Course
Unlimited Access! Unlimited Learning!
Homeschool Connections has made a wonderful change that can make the upcoming months great (and even easier :-) for Catholic homeschool parents ..
Starting right now, they are offering Unlimited Access to over 70 middle and high school courses -- for the price of just one typical online course elsewhere (Really!). Plus, you can try it out FREE (more below!).
They call it the NEW Homeschool Connections Unlimited Access Program --
A way to give your children all kinds of courses without having to pay for each and every course ... Because now they give you unlimited access to ALL of Homeschool Connections' fully-recorded courses for one year, for only $330. One full year for the whole family!
That's a one-time cost for OVER 70 complete courses for middle and high school students. Prefer a monthly payment? They also offer a Subscription Service for $30 per month for as long as you need it--begin at any time, end at any time--and get full access to --
Math, science, literature (19 different courses, including Shakespeare, American, & English Lit), writing (middle school through college and fiction writing), philosophy, theology, geography, ancient and world history (Greek, Roman, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Modern), American history, test prep & career search skills, personal finance, foreign language (German, Spanish, Latin, American Sign Language), government, micro & macro economics, logic, law, archeology -- and more ...
Here's what's so great about it: With No Per Class Charge and No Per Pupil Charge -- You get access to everything for your immediate family --
Have the freedom to choose any class, any time.
Complete classes at your own pace, at any time of day.
Traveling? Schedule change? Take these classes from anywhere in the world. Got Internet -- then you can connect with us.
Choose from two ways to take your courses: Watch-and-Learn with all the support materials and answer keys to easily grade your children's work ... OR Instructor Access where, for an additional fee, the original instructor grades homework for you. We work to make life and homeschooling easier for you.
Any student can take these courses -- Homeschool students, Catholic school students, private or public school students, students who are enrolled in a home study program, unschoolers ... anyone in middle or high school! Even parents take our courses!
100% of parents and students surveyed said they LOVE the unlimited recorded courses and 96% would recommend it to their friends ...
Here are a few recent words from students ...
"Fantastic!"
"Passionate instruction!"
"Very clear ... and fun!"
"These courses are wonderful!"
"An amazing job in presenting the material ..."
"Helped me with my faith ..."
"[My instructor] passed his love of the material on to the students."
"My instructor was very knowledgeable and passionate ..."
"The class challenged me to really think ...
[The instructor] presented the material in a captivating manner and I actually found I really enjoyed it."
Whether you have one child or many -- When you need or want a tutor outside the home, this is a helpful service -- for excellence in academics, putting faith into action, and inspiring lifelong learning. We're here for you.
Think about all of the great courses that will be ready for you to use -- unlimited -- all year long. And think about how much money you can save (!).
Want more information before signing up ...
Free Trial Course!
Not sure what an online course looks like? Wondering how it works and how easy it is?
Well, here's your chance!
For the next few weeks (through Dec. 30, 2011) you can have full access to one of their online recorded courses. Click on the course title below. Then click on the button: Login as a guest to take your test drive. .. but hurry--this will only be open for a short time.
Modern American History taught by Phillip Campbell
Homeschool Connections has made a wonderful change that can make the upcoming months great (and even easier :-) for Catholic homeschool parents ..
Starting right now, they are offering Unlimited Access to over 70 middle and high school courses -- for the price of just one typical online course elsewhere (Really!). Plus, you can try it out FREE (more below!).
They call it the NEW Homeschool Connections Unlimited Access Program --
A way to give your children all kinds of courses without having to pay for each and every course ... Because now they give you unlimited access to ALL of Homeschool Connections' fully-recorded courses for one year, for only $330. One full year for the whole family!
That's a one-time cost for OVER 70 complete courses for middle and high school students. Prefer a monthly payment? They also offer a Subscription Service for $30 per month for as long as you need it--begin at any time, end at any time--and get full access to --
Math, science, literature (19 different courses, including Shakespeare, American, & English Lit), writing (middle school through college and fiction writing), philosophy, theology, geography, ancient and world history (Greek, Roman, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Modern), American history, test prep & career search skills, personal finance, foreign language (German, Spanish, Latin, American Sign Language), government, micro & macro economics, logic, law, archeology -- and more ...
Here's what's so great about it: With No Per Class Charge and No Per Pupil Charge -- You get access to everything for your immediate family --
Have the freedom to choose any class, any time.
Complete classes at your own pace, at any time of day.
Traveling? Schedule change? Take these classes from anywhere in the world. Got Internet -- then you can connect with us.
Choose from two ways to take your courses: Watch-and-Learn with all the support materials and answer keys to easily grade your children's work ... OR Instructor Access where, for an additional fee, the original instructor grades homework for you. We work to make life and homeschooling easier for you.
Any student can take these courses -- Homeschool students, Catholic school students, private or public school students, students who are enrolled in a home study program, unschoolers ... anyone in middle or high school! Even parents take our courses!
100% of parents and students surveyed said they LOVE the unlimited recorded courses and 96% would recommend it to their friends ...
Here are a few recent words from students ...
"Fantastic!"
"Passionate instruction!"
"Very clear ... and fun!"
"These courses are wonderful!"
"An amazing job in presenting the material ..."
"Helped me with my faith ..."
"[My instructor] passed his love of the material on to the students."
"My instructor was very knowledgeable and passionate ..."
"The class challenged me to really think ...
[The instructor] presented the material in a captivating manner and I actually found I really enjoyed it."
Whether you have one child or many -- When you need or want a tutor outside the home, this is a helpful service -- for excellence in academics, putting faith into action, and inspiring lifelong learning. We're here for you.
Think about all of the great courses that will be ready for you to use -- unlimited -- all year long. And think about how much money you can save (!).
Want more information before signing up ...
Free Trial Course!
Not sure what an online course looks like? Wondering how it works and how easy it is?
Well, here's your chance!
For the next few weeks (through Dec. 30, 2011) you can have full access to one of their online recorded courses. Click on the course title below. Then click on the button: Login as a guest to take your test drive. .. but hurry--this will only be open for a short time.
Modern American History taught by Phillip Campbell
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
The Posada
I had heard about "The Posada" - the Spanish Christmas tradition, but I never knew much about it until I read this article in Columbia Magazine: Making Room at the Inn
The Christmas Posada, celebrated in many Latin American countries today, is a prayer, a play and a party all in one. The name means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish and is generally celebrated with a novena from Dec. 16 -24 in preparation for the birth of Christ. These nine days symbolize Mary's pregnancy, the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, and their search for a place to stay - as recounted in Luke 2:1-7.
The Knights of Columbus also have a free booklet to download about The Posada:
The Posada - An Advent and Christmas Celebration
The Christmas Posada, celebrated in many Latin American countries today, is a prayer, a play and a party all in one. The name means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish and is generally celebrated with a novena from Dec. 16 -24 in preparation for the birth of Christ. These nine days symbolize Mary's pregnancy, the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, and their search for a place to stay - as recounted in Luke 2:1-7.
The Knights of Columbus also have a free booklet to download about The Posada:
The Posada - An Advent and Christmas Celebration
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
We Have the Power to Change
Over the years, I've really given up hope that Advent will ever be the same quality of religious experience that Lent is. There are simply too many other things to do during Advent to get ready for Christmas. It doesn't allow that dedicated focus on spiritual matters that Lent provides. Still, I do try to do a couple of small things to reflect on the true meaning of this season. This year, one of those is reading a special reflection for each day out of Joyful Meditations for Every Day of Advent by Fr. Warren Savage and Mary Ann McSweeny. This was part of today's reflection:
It takes courage and humility to change. We may have developed certain habits during our lifetime that are based in fear, shame, or anger. We may have learned to cope with difficult life situations by manipulating others, by becoming addicted to alcohol, food, or gambling; or by letting others define who we are. However, whatever unhealthy patterns we may have acquired, we have the right to be the sons and daughters of God. We have the power to change at any time and live life more freely and lovingly.
by Fr. Warren Savage and Mary Ann McSweeny. This was part of today's reflection:It takes courage and humility to change. We may have developed certain habits during our lifetime that are based in fear, shame, or anger. We may have learned to cope with difficult life situations by manipulating others, by becoming addicted to alcohol, food, or gambling; or by letting others define who we are. However, whatever unhealthy patterns we may have acquired, we have the right to be the sons and daughters of God. We have the power to change at any time and live life more freely and lovingly.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Meeting Teens Where They Are
It is a scary fact in my life that I will be soon be the mother of teenagers. Every day, they get a little bit closer, and the teen "years" seem to start younger than they used to. Just the other day, I had a conversation with my boys about "sexting" and why this was never a good idea. These are not conversations I enjoy, but they need to be had. Navigating the teen years is going to be a challenge!
Keeping them rooted in their faith is going to be a challenge as well. I know that those years are a time of questioning and that it will not be enough for them to practice their faith because their mom does. They will need to make it their own. To that end, I read articles like this one with great interest: Mark Hart's Advice for Meeting Teens Where They Are
Keeping them rooted in their faith is going to be a challenge as well. I know that those years are a time of questioning and that it will not be enough for them to practice their faith because their mom does. They will need to make it their own. To that end, I read articles like this one with great interest: Mark Hart's Advice for Meeting Teens Where They Are
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Coping with Sibling Rivalry
If you have a sibling or more than one child, chances are that you have dealt with the ugly green monster that is sibling rivalry. In a perfect world, children born of the same parents or adopted into the same family would always love, honor, and respect each other. They would share without complaint, applaud each other’s successes, and be happy to not be the center of Mom and Dad’s attention all of the time. But, alas, this is an imperfect world, and sibling rivalry has existed since the days of Cain and Abel. We aren’t going to be able to root it out completely. So, then, our only hope is to attempt to minimize it.
Truthfully, my two boys get along well most of the time – emphasis on most. There are certainly times that one or the other or both have wished (loudly!) that they were only children, but usually they are content to enjoy each other’s company. They are close in age – a mere nineteen months apart – and share many interests and friends which is a blessing. Lately, however, we have been dealing with a serious case of sibling rivalry.
The two of them are taking acting classes at a local drama studio this year and they both love them. When auditions came for the first big play, they were both eager to try out. I hoped beyond hope that they would both either get a role or both get rejected. What happened? You guessed it – my older son got a role and my younger one did not. While it was fortunate that it was that way and not the opposite situation, it still made for some considerable gloating and jealousy.
While David had the opportunity to go out night after night for rehearsals, Isaac was stuck at home. While David got to perform in a large downtown theater five times and get catered meals, Isaac was relegated to the audience. I did try to mitigate the issues as much as possible. I reminded David that talking about the play incessantly, no matter how excited he was about it, was not being kind to his brother. I reminded Isaac that there would be other plays and he would most likely get to be in one that David wasn’t in. I also tried to spend some extra time with Isaac, doing things that he enjoyed while David was out of the house. Still, the hard feelings continued.
As a parent, I was torn. It was wonderful to see David blossom and find something he truly loves and could be good at. As some of you are aware, he has high-functioning autism. Life is hard for him. He struggles academically and socially and athletically. One of the reasons I signed him and his brother up for acting classes is that the school said that they welcomed those who were different. They said it was a place where anyone could excel. That has definitely proven to be the case. The child who fears every new situation has been excited to go to rehearsals and the performances every single time. That, in itself, is amazing.
At the same time, I did feel badly for Isaac. He wanted a part every bit as much. As much as I know that learning to be happy for someone else is an important life lesson, it still hurts to be left behind. He is the younger brother, if not by much, and most of the time he has to wait a year to do the things his brother can do. It isn’t a fun position to be in. In this case, I can’t even guarantee that he will get a role the next time. That is up to the directors and age has nothing to do with it. I can only hope.
Yes, sibling rivalry is alive and well in my household. The play is behind us now and hopefully life, and their relationship, will return to normal – at least for a while. I know, though, as they continue to grow and carve out their individual places in the world, that rivalry will continue. Despite my best efforts, I can’t eliminate it completely. My job in all of this is to continue to emphasize their respective talents and give them the parental attention they need, and hope and pray that their love for each other outweighs their need to compete with each other.
For some good suggestions on dealing with and helping to prevent sibling rivalry, please see this article from the University of Michigan Health System: Sibling Rivalry.
Truthfully, my two boys get along well most of the time – emphasis on most. There are certainly times that one or the other or both have wished (loudly!) that they were only children, but usually they are content to enjoy each other’s company. They are close in age – a mere nineteen months apart – and share many interests and friends which is a blessing. Lately, however, we have been dealing with a serious case of sibling rivalry.
The two of them are taking acting classes at a local drama studio this year and they both love them. When auditions came for the first big play, they were both eager to try out. I hoped beyond hope that they would both either get a role or both get rejected. What happened? You guessed it – my older son got a role and my younger one did not. While it was fortunate that it was that way and not the opposite situation, it still made for some considerable gloating and jealousy.
While David had the opportunity to go out night after night for rehearsals, Isaac was stuck at home. While David got to perform in a large downtown theater five times and get catered meals, Isaac was relegated to the audience. I did try to mitigate the issues as much as possible. I reminded David that talking about the play incessantly, no matter how excited he was about it, was not being kind to his brother. I reminded Isaac that there would be other plays and he would most likely get to be in one that David wasn’t in. I also tried to spend some extra time with Isaac, doing things that he enjoyed while David was out of the house. Still, the hard feelings continued.
As a parent, I was torn. It was wonderful to see David blossom and find something he truly loves and could be good at. As some of you are aware, he has high-functioning autism. Life is hard for him. He struggles academically and socially and athletically. One of the reasons I signed him and his brother up for acting classes is that the school said that they welcomed those who were different. They said it was a place where anyone could excel. That has definitely proven to be the case. The child who fears every new situation has been excited to go to rehearsals and the performances every single time. That, in itself, is amazing.
At the same time, I did feel badly for Isaac. He wanted a part every bit as much. As much as I know that learning to be happy for someone else is an important life lesson, it still hurts to be left behind. He is the younger brother, if not by much, and most of the time he has to wait a year to do the things his brother can do. It isn’t a fun position to be in. In this case, I can’t even guarantee that he will get a role the next time. That is up to the directors and age has nothing to do with it. I can only hope.
Yes, sibling rivalry is alive and well in my household. The play is behind us now and hopefully life, and their relationship, will return to normal – at least for a while. I know, though, as they continue to grow and carve out their individual places in the world, that rivalry will continue. Despite my best efforts, I can’t eliminate it completely. My job in all of this is to continue to emphasize their respective talents and give them the parental attention they need, and hope and pray that their love for each other outweighs their need to compete with each other.
For some good suggestions on dealing with and helping to prevent sibling rivalry, please see this article from the University of Michigan Health System: Sibling Rivalry.
CatholicMatch Gift Card
I'm not sure how well this would be taken, but I suppose if you KNEW someone you care about was actively looking for a special someone, giving a gift card to CatholicMatch.com would be a unique and appreciated Christmas gift. Find out more here: Catholic Match Gift Card
Friday, December 09, 2011
A Model for Teachers - St. Albert the Great
I never really knew much about St. Albert the Great (a.k.a. Albertus Magnus) other than that he was St. Thomas Aquinas's teacher. This article from US Catholic discusses this patron saint of natural science's integration of theology and science and why he makes a great model for teachers: St. Albert the Great
Thursday, December 08, 2011
Book Review: Lost December
Lost December
by Richard Paul Evans
New York: Simon & Schuster, 2011
I am a huge Richard Paul Evans' fan. I have loved his books, going back all the way to "The Christmas Box" which started it all. That being said, I truly believe that Lost December
is his best book since that original story. A modern day retelling of the biblical telling of The Prodigal Son, the central themes of lessons learned and forgiveness extended ring true. Luke Crisp is the son of a multi-millionaire who made his money by truly caring about his employees and his customers. Luke, however, decides he wants more from life than to take over the family business. He takes his trust fund and leaves to explore the world with his so-called friends. Needless to say, this decision is not a good one.
Even going into the book with the general idea of how it will all turn out does not take away from the beauty and power of this story. Although, to some extent, it is being marketed as a Christmas story and Christmas does play a role in the turn of events, like the original story in Scripture, this is an important story for any time of the year.
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
The Greatest Miracle Opening in Theaters Dec. 9th
People take things for granted; it's human nature. In The Greatest Miracle, opening Dec. 9 in limited release around the country, producer Pablo Jose Barroso and Dos Corazones Productions offer a 3D, animated story of hope and faith set against the backdrop of mysterious spirits and a religious service many have come to take for granted. The story revolves around three people who find themselves at the same Catholic Mass because of crises they are struggling to endure. Going to Mass is not new to any of them - but they need assistance to embrace its true meaning.
That guidance comes from their guardian angels, who help them to understand the struggle between good and evil, and the miraculous triumph of faith that manifests itself in every celebration of the Eucharist. Through their angels, they come to understand what Pope Benedict XVI described in Light of the World, his book-length interview with German journalist Peter Seewald. "Something quite special is going on here," the Holy Father said of the Eucharist. "He is here, the One before whom we fall on our knees!"
The Greatest Miracle is directed by Bruce M. Morris. He is the visual writer of the animated hits Pocahontas and Hercules, and earned an Academy Award® nomination for his work on 2009's The Princess and the Frog. Oscar®-nominee Mark McKenzie (Dances with Wolves) wrote the score for the film, which earned the 2011 Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Original Score - Independent Film/Short/Documentary. McKenzie's work also includes Men in Black, Spiderman and Ice Age: The Meltdown.
The Greatest Miracle opens Dec. 9 on 3D screens in 14 states. A full list of theaters is posted on the film's website. www.thegreatestmiraclemovie.com
That guidance comes from their guardian angels, who help them to understand the struggle between good and evil, and the miraculous triumph of faith that manifests itself in every celebration of the Eucharist. Through their angels, they come to understand what Pope Benedict XVI described in Light of the World, his book-length interview with German journalist Peter Seewald. "Something quite special is going on here," the Holy Father said of the Eucharist. "He is here, the One before whom we fall on our knees!"
The Greatest Miracle is directed by Bruce M. Morris. He is the visual writer of the animated hits Pocahontas and Hercules, and earned an Academy Award® nomination for his work on 2009's The Princess and the Frog. Oscar®-nominee Mark McKenzie (Dances with Wolves) wrote the score for the film, which earned the 2011 Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Original Score - Independent Film/Short/Documentary. McKenzie's work also includes Men in Black, Spiderman and Ice Age: The Meltdown.
The Greatest Miracle opens Dec. 9 on 3D screens in 14 states. A full list of theaters is posted on the film's website. www.thegreatestmiraclemovie.com
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
How and Why to Return to Confession
Last week, I posted an article from the National Catholic Register on "How and Why to Return to Mass." Today, I offer it's counterpart, "How and Why to Return to Confession."
1 The presence of sin can easily lead to depression and anxiety.
2 You shower to show respect for those around you. Cleansing your soul makes you better to be around, too!
3 Mortal sin, unconfessed, “causes exclusion from Christ’s Kingdom and the eternal death of hell, for our freedom has the power to make choices forever, with no turning back” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 1861).
4 As they leave the confessional, people smile a smile of freedom.
5 Because love means having to say you are sorry to the one you love.
6 You will grow in humility, sincerity and self-knowledge.
7 Blessed Mother Teresa went. Frequently.
8 Hoping to convert on your deathbed? That’s not very likely. Most likely, you will die as you lived.
9 It is itself a serious sin to go to Communion if you have serious sin on your soul and have not asked for forgiveness in confession.
10 Don’t be scared to death of confession. Be scared of death without confession.
11 Be strong. Face your sins; deal with them and move on.
12 Make sure there are no unpleasant surprises at your particular judgment or at the Final Judgment.
13 The priest will listen to your sins and will never tell a soul on pain of losing his soul. Priests even learn to forget what they hear.
For the full document, visit How and Why to Return to Confession
1 The presence of sin can easily lead to depression and anxiety.
2 You shower to show respect for those around you. Cleansing your soul makes you better to be around, too!
3 Mortal sin, unconfessed, “causes exclusion from Christ’s Kingdom and the eternal death of hell, for our freedom has the power to make choices forever, with no turning back” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 1861).
4 As they leave the confessional, people smile a smile of freedom.
5 Because love means having to say you are sorry to the one you love.
6 You will grow in humility, sincerity and self-knowledge.
7 Blessed Mother Teresa went. Frequently.
8 Hoping to convert on your deathbed? That’s not very likely. Most likely, you will die as you lived.
9 It is itself a serious sin to go to Communion if you have serious sin on your soul and have not asked for forgiveness in confession.
10 Don’t be scared to death of confession. Be scared of death without confession.
11 Be strong. Face your sins; deal with them and move on.
12 Make sure there are no unpleasant surprises at your particular judgment or at the Final Judgment.
13 The priest will listen to your sins and will never tell a soul on pain of losing his soul. Priests even learn to forget what they hear.
For the full document, visit How and Why to Return to Confession
Breastfeeding Bullies
I wasn't looking for this article, but happened upon it as I was searching for something else. All I can say is "Amen!"
Breastfeeding Bullies by Simcha Fischer
Breastfeeding Bullies by Simcha Fischer
Monday, December 05, 2011
Bishop Timothy McDonnell on the New Translation
Well, two weeks into the new translation and I'm almost to the point where I remember to say "And with your spirit" instead of "And also with you!" The other changes are going to take a little longer for me to learn.
In my parish bulletin this week was a message from our Bishop, Bishop Timothy A. McDonnell which I thought explained nicely the reasons for the new translation.
We've all heard the words:
"Four score and seven years ago, our forefathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
Suppose, however, that Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address had begun: "Eighty-seven years ago, in North America, the people of that time started a new country. It was focused on freedom and all were to be treated the same."
In that fashion, I doubt his words would be remembered today. Language does make a difference.
That is why the new Mass translations we begin today are so important. The Mass deserves more than everyday language. It deserves a language fitting for the worship of God.
The language we use at Mass is meant to take us out of the everyday and focus our minds and hearts on the divine mysteries we celebrate.
The language is different because the Mass is unique. The Mass is at the heart of our faith. It speaks to the Mystery of Faith - the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ made present on our altars. The translations we use should capture as exactly as possible the nuances of the original language in which our Mass prayers were composed.
The new translations will demand more of us. They will demand attentiveness, concentration, and prayerful reflection. At the same time, they will offer an opportunity to enter more fully into the Eucharist, God's gift of self to us. As together we experience the richness of the new translations, may we grow in appreciation of the Lord who is at the heart of our faith and of our Mass.
In my parish bulletin this week was a message from our Bishop, Bishop Timothy A. McDonnell which I thought explained nicely the reasons for the new translation.
We've all heard the words:
"Four score and seven years ago, our forefathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
Suppose, however, that Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address had begun: "Eighty-seven years ago, in North America, the people of that time started a new country. It was focused on freedom and all were to be treated the same."
In that fashion, I doubt his words would be remembered today. Language does make a difference.
That is why the new Mass translations we begin today are so important. The Mass deserves more than everyday language. It deserves a language fitting for the worship of God.
The language we use at Mass is meant to take us out of the everyday and focus our minds and hearts on the divine mysteries we celebrate.
The language is different because the Mass is unique. The Mass is at the heart of our faith. It speaks to the Mystery of Faith - the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ made present on our altars. The translations we use should capture as exactly as possible the nuances of the original language in which our Mass prayers were composed.
The new translations will demand more of us. They will demand attentiveness, concentration, and prayerful reflection. At the same time, they will offer an opportunity to enter more fully into the Eucharist, God's gift of self to us. As together we experience the richness of the new translations, may we grow in appreciation of the Lord who is at the heart of our faith and of our Mass.
Sunday, December 04, 2011
What is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception?
“I am the Immaculate Conception.” These are the words our Blessed Mother spoke to young Bernadette Soubirous when she appeared at Lourdes in 1858. On December 8th, we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, yet it often seems to leave many people confused. What exactly are we celebrating on this holy day?
Contrary to what many people seem to think, it is not the conception of Jesus. That feast is on March 25th – the Feast of the Annunciation. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception commemorates the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne.
The birthday of Mary has long been celebrated on September 8th. There is evidence that it was celebrated in the Eastern Church on that date as early as the sixth century. It would take a couple more centuries before it was celebrated here in the West. The information we have on Mary’s birth is not recorded in Scripture. Rather, it comes to us via the Protoevangelium of James written about 150 A.D. It is from this document that we have received the names of Mary’s parents – St. Joachim and St. Anne and the fact that they were childless for many years prior to having Mary.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception was therefore set on December 8th, nine months prior to Mary’s September birthday. Originally, the Church celebrated this feast as only the Feast of the Conception of Mary. Over the course of the years, as the tradition and understanding of Mary’s conception developed, it became known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
It was officially declared thus on December 8, 1854 when Pope Pius IX declared that the Blessed Virgin Mary "in the first instance of her conception, by a singular privilege and grace granted by God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the human race, was preserved exempt from all stain of original sin." Original sin was not removed from her soul. Rather, it never existed. In the Eastern Church, this feast is still known as “The Conception by St. Anne.” For more information on the development of this feast, the Catholic Encyclopedia offers a good treatment.
On a related note, The First Council of Baltimore in 1856 declared Mary, The Immaculate Conception, as the patroness of the United States. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, dedicated to the patroness of the United States and located in Washington, DC, is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America, and one of the ten largest in the world.
Contrary to what many people seem to think, it is not the conception of Jesus. That feast is on March 25th – the Feast of the Annunciation. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception commemorates the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne.
The birthday of Mary has long been celebrated on September 8th. There is evidence that it was celebrated in the Eastern Church on that date as early as the sixth century. It would take a couple more centuries before it was celebrated here in the West. The information we have on Mary’s birth is not recorded in Scripture. Rather, it comes to us via the Protoevangelium of James written about 150 A.D. It is from this document that we have received the names of Mary’s parents – St. Joachim and St. Anne and the fact that they were childless for many years prior to having Mary.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception was therefore set on December 8th, nine months prior to Mary’s September birthday. Originally, the Church celebrated this feast as only the Feast of the Conception of Mary. Over the course of the years, as the tradition and understanding of Mary’s conception developed, it became known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
It was officially declared thus on December 8, 1854 when Pope Pius IX declared that the Blessed Virgin Mary "in the first instance of her conception, by a singular privilege and grace granted by God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the human race, was preserved exempt from all stain of original sin." Original sin was not removed from her soul. Rather, it never existed. In the Eastern Church, this feast is still known as “The Conception by St. Anne.” For more information on the development of this feast, the Catholic Encyclopedia offers a good treatment.
On a related note, The First Council of Baltimore in 1856 declared Mary, The Immaculate Conception, as the patroness of the United States. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, dedicated to the patroness of the United States and located in Washington, DC, is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America, and one of the ten largest in the world.
Friday, December 02, 2011
How and Why to Return to Sunday Mass
If you have been away from Sunday Mass for a while, Advent is a wonderful time to return. This list from the National Catholic Register sums up many of the reasons why we would love to have you back!
1. It’s your way to relive the Last Supper.
2 When was the last time you prayed too much?
3 If you want to spend eternity with Christ, you need to get to know him now.
4 It’s the central, necessary activity of Christian worship (Luke 22:14-23; John 6:53; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
5 It’s your best way to identify yourself with Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
6 Some of the greatest people in history were Massgoers (St. Francis, Blessed Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II …).
7 Wise people invest money for the future. How much more should we invest in eternal life?
8 It has to be better for you than TV.
9 If you’ve been to confession, you get to receive Jesus Christ. If you find a better deal, do that instead.
10 If you knew Jesus would be somewhere, wouldn’t you go see him?
11 Guaranteed Bible readings. Countless lives have been changed by Scripture. Might yours?
12 Statistics say that people who go to church are less stressed.
13 It’s the best way to pray for your family and friends — and to cope with troubled times.
14 One out of Ten Commandments asks us to go to Mass every Sunday.
15 You’ll become a better person at Mass. The more you are a part of God’s life, the better you’ll be.
16 Life is complicated. Get directions that work — from the One who created life.
17 It’s your way to go most directly through Jesus Christ to God the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit in prayer.
18 Is one hour too much to give to God? How many do you spend on other priorities?
Read more at http://www.ncregister.com/images/documents/Advent-Mass.pdf
1. It’s your way to relive the Last Supper.
2 When was the last time you prayed too much?
3 If you want to spend eternity with Christ, you need to get to know him now.
4 It’s the central, necessary activity of Christian worship (Luke 22:14-23; John 6:53; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
5 It’s your best way to identify yourself with Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
6 Some of the greatest people in history were Massgoers (St. Francis, Blessed Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II …).
7 Wise people invest money for the future. How much more should we invest in eternal life?
8 It has to be better for you than TV.
9 If you’ve been to confession, you get to receive Jesus Christ. If you find a better deal, do that instead.
10 If you knew Jesus would be somewhere, wouldn’t you go see him?
11 Guaranteed Bible readings. Countless lives have been changed by Scripture. Might yours?
12 Statistics say that people who go to church are less stressed.
13 It’s the best way to pray for your family and friends — and to cope with troubled times.
14 One out of Ten Commandments asks us to go to Mass every Sunday.
15 You’ll become a better person at Mass. The more you are a part of God’s life, the better you’ll be.
16 Life is complicated. Get directions that work — from the One who created life.
17 It’s your way to go most directly through Jesus Christ to God the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit in prayer.
18 Is one hour too much to give to God? How many do you spend on other priorities?
Read more at http://www.ncregister.com/images/documents/Advent-Mass.pdf
Thursday, December 01, 2011
High School Pallbearers
I had meant to post the link to this article in November, the month in which we especially remember those who have died. Alas, November got away from me. Still, the dead are with us all year long and it is ALWAYS good to remember and pray for those who have died.
The high-schoolers featured in this article are carrying out the corporal work of mercy to bury the dead every day and doing so with grace and respect. Members of "The St. Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearer Society" at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio serve in a ministry of "respect and care, presence and prayer."
Their mission statement is as follows:
To practice the works of mercy by offering pallbearer services free of charge to those in need, especially the poor and elderly.
To affirm the value and dignity of human life
To represent the community at a person's final commendation
To commemorate and pray for the dead
I wish one of the local Catholic high schools in my area would take up a similar cause. It is a wonderful service.
Read the full article here: High School Pallbearers
The high-schoolers featured in this article are carrying out the corporal work of mercy to bury the dead every day and doing so with grace and respect. Members of "The St. Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearer Society" at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio serve in a ministry of "respect and care, presence and prayer."
Their mission statement is as follows:
To practice the works of mercy by offering pallbearer services free of charge to those in need, especially the poor and elderly.
To affirm the value and dignity of human life
To represent the community at a person's final commendation
To commemorate and pray for the dead
I wish one of the local Catholic high schools in my area would take up a similar cause. It is a wonderful service.
Read the full article here: High School Pallbearers
Book Review: "Giovanni's Light"
Giovanni's Light: The Story of a Town Where Time Stopped for Christmas
by Phyllis Theroux
New York, Scribner, 2002 (Paperback 2010)
"Giovanni's Light" by Phyllis Theroux is a classic Christmas story - a light to give warmth on a cold winter's day. The town of Ryland Falls comes straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting - it is a place just about everyone would like to escape to. Things have always been done a certain way, and people play their roles in that tradition willingly. Except for one year when it all goes wrong.
Under the surface of that perfect world, the pain of living is taking hold and winning the battle. As Theroux writes of the tipping point: "A crack in the heart of an eight-year-old boy is not a very noticeable thing on earth. For one thing, there are so many eight-year-olds. For another, most of them have a rather small vocabulary. They don't have the words to call attention to their condition. But in that other place where all cracked, broken, lost, and hardened hearts are recorded, it was noticed right away. And when Neddie Crimmins's heart was placed gently upon the scale with all the other damaged hearts in Ryland Falls, it was considered one heart too many.
When snow starts falling and falling and falling some more until the whole town is snowed in, miracles start to happen and the good in human nature begins to shine through. This is a novella - easy to read in one sitting. It is a perfect family story - both children and adults will enjoy and benefit from it. It would be a splendid addition to your Christmas season.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Visit Amazing Catechists
Lisa Mladinich is an amazing woman and an amazing catechist. Her website by the same name - devoted to helping catechists (parents teaching their children about the faith also fall into that category!) was recently redesigned and has lots of great information. Check out Amazing Catechists today!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Book Review: "The Christmas Shoppe"
The Christmas Shoppe
by Melody Carlson
Grand Rapids: Revell Books, 2011
In my annual quest for Christmas stories to help get me in the holiday spirit, it was a delight to discover author Melody Carlson. When eccentric Matilda Honeycutt, known for her odd hair, clothes, and hoarding habit, plans to open a Christmas Shoppe in Parrish Springs, the business community is very nervous. City manager Susanna Elton attempts to befriend her, even volunteering her mother-in-law and young daughter to help her get ready, but the true identity of the store remains a mystery.
When she opens for business, everyone's worst fears are confirmed - there are strange sayings painted on the walls and the shelves are full of broken, worn-out items that no one would ever want. Or would they? It turns out Matilda has a much bigger mission in mind than simply moving merchandise and her efforts will help bring healing to many in the small town.
This is a charming Christmas story. It is short (this is a plus in my world!) and a quick-read, but it will make you think about the areas of your own life that could use some healing.
What do You Want Most for Christmas?
It is time once again for the Christmas Novena. It begins on Wednesday, November 30th and goes through Christmas Eve. It is time to prayerfully consider what we want most for Christmas this year and bring those desires to God. I've seen different versions of how to say this novena - some say to say it 15 times a day while others have it as just once a day. However you do it, humbly request God for the blessings that you desire most this Christmas.
The Christmas Novena
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment
At which the Son of God was born
Of a most pure Virgin
At a stable in Bethlehem
In the piercing cold.
At that hour vouchsafe, I beseech thee,
To hear my prayers and grant my desires.
(Mention your request here.)
Through Jesus Christ and his most Blessed Mother. Amen.
The Christmas Novena
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment
At which the Son of God was born
Of a most pure Virgin
At a stable in Bethlehem
In the piercing cold.
At that hour vouchsafe, I beseech thee,
To hear my prayers and grant my desires.
(Mention your request here.)
Through Jesus Christ and his most Blessed Mother. Amen.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Time to Set Up the Jesse Tree
Creating a Jesse Tree is one of the Advent traditions my children and I enjoy each year. In fact, David told me this year that we were going to have a Jesse Tree this year even if he had to make the ornaments and read the Bible himself! (Life is kind of busy in our house at the moment, but I'm sure I can make time to read the Bible with David and Isaac.)
Here is a great webpage to get you started if you want to make one of your own: Jesse Tree Instructions
Here is a great webpage to get you started if you want to make one of your own: Jesse Tree Instructions
Celebrate Fiction! Second Annual Catholic Arts & Letters Award
The Catholic Writers Guild, an organization founded to promote and nurture Catholic writers and their work, is gearing up for the second annual Catholic Arts and Letters Award (CALA) for Fiction.
The CALA for Fiction is awarded to authors of works of fiction in which judges find exemplary literary merit. All submissions must first be awarded the Catholic Writers Guild’s Seal of Approval, a process by which books are reviewed by a Catholic panel to certify that content does not disregard Catholic doctrine.
“The Guild’s mission is to lift up Catholic writers,” says CWG President Ann Margaret Lewis. “It hopes to encourage them and embolden them to create great art and compete in the world of ideas. This award recognizes well-written fiction that does just that.”
At last year’s CMN, the CWG awarded the first CALA for fiction in two categories. In the children’s fiction category, Regina Doman was awarded for her young adult novel, Alex O’Donnell and the 40 Cyberthieves. In adult fiction, it was awarded to Michelle Buckman for her novel, Rachel’s Contrition.
“It was a great privilege to be the recipient of the first CALA for fiction,” says Michelle Buckman, “especially given the high caliber of the other submissions. My hope is that this award is bringing attention to the availability of great Catholic novels. I encourage all writers to submit entries, and all readers to check out the growing list of Catholic fiction listed on the Catholic Writers Guild website.”
Regina Doman was equally thrilled to be awarded the CALA in the Children’s division.
"Catholic fiction for children and young adults provides entertainment that also reveals faith at work in our lives, and this award will hopefully make more people aware of all the great books available. I am grateful and honored to be the first to receive this award."
The deadline for 2011 book submissions is January 31, 2012. Details can be found at the CWG website – www.catholicwritersguild.com.
The CALA for Fiction is awarded to authors of works of fiction in which judges find exemplary literary merit. All submissions must first be awarded the Catholic Writers Guild’s Seal of Approval, a process by which books are reviewed by a Catholic panel to certify that content does not disregard Catholic doctrine.
“The Guild’s mission is to lift up Catholic writers,” says CWG President Ann Margaret Lewis. “It hopes to encourage them and embolden them to create great art and compete in the world of ideas. This award recognizes well-written fiction that does just that.”
At last year’s CMN, the CWG awarded the first CALA for fiction in two categories. In the children’s fiction category, Regina Doman was awarded for her young adult novel, Alex O’Donnell and the 40 Cyberthieves. In adult fiction, it was awarded to Michelle Buckman for her novel, Rachel’s Contrition.
“It was a great privilege to be the recipient of the first CALA for fiction,” says Michelle Buckman, “especially given the high caliber of the other submissions. My hope is that this award is bringing attention to the availability of great Catholic novels. I encourage all writers to submit entries, and all readers to check out the growing list of Catholic fiction listed on the Catholic Writers Guild website.”
Regina Doman was equally thrilled to be awarded the CALA in the Children’s division.
"Catholic fiction for children and young adults provides entertainment that also reveals faith at work in our lives, and this award will hopefully make more people aware of all the great books available. I am grateful and honored to be the first to receive this award."
The deadline for 2011 book submissions is January 31, 2012. Details can be found at the CWG website – www.catholicwritersguild.com.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Moment of Beauty
Yesterday, I was blessed to witness this amazing sunrise. While the picture can't fully capture how breathtaking it was, I still wanted to share it with all of you! God is truly the most amazing artist!
The Santa Club
I know that some people don’t allow their children to believe in the Santa myth for a variety of reasons. My parents fell into this category. But, when my children were little, I decided to allow them to enjoy that magic while making sure that they were truly aware that the true reason for Christmas was Jesus. Belief in Santa Claus was only a small part of our Advent and Christmas celebration. They knew that Mom and Dad provided most of the presents underneath the tree but each year, Santa brought one. They also knew that they had to make or buy presents for other people. Still, that belief was important to them. My mother broke the news to my children that there was no Santa last year – two weeks before Christmas. It wasn’t pretty. My two boys were crying uncontrollably and we made an extremely hasty retreat from Memere’s house that day.
They were certainly old enough to know the truth, and I had planned on telling them right after Christmas, but my younger son asked my mother and she had no problem at all dishing out the cold, hard facts of the situation while I could only watch in shock.
In a way, it was a blessing. She saved me from being the bearer of bad news. Their anger was directed at her, rather than me. And truly, they got over it rather quickly. Thankfully, they still had a wonderful Christmas and still enjoyed watching Santa circle the globe on the Norad Santa Tracker (a great geography lesson!)
Still, it seems like there should be a better way to handle that inevitable question. I think that Kelley Moss has found it. Sixteen years ago, her six-year-old son posed that same query to her and she was speechless. Thankfully, she was in her mother-in-law’s kitchen and the elder woman took over quickly. She explained about St. Nicholas and how he secretly gave gifts to poor children and families. When he died, others started a club to continue the tradition. This was a group of other secret “Santas” who went on to give gifts to others to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. She invited the young boy to become part of this club. He was thrilled to join, and the following year, when his younger brother was old enough to ask that same question, he was ready with an invitation to the club!
This year, Kelley Moss, a national speaker on “The Gift of Giving,” published The Santa Club
, designed for parents and children to read together when the time is right. Beginning with the Biblical quote, “It is more blessed to give than receive,” (Acts 20:15) the book helps to foster generosity in children. It even contains a certificate at the end to officially designate a child as a member of the secret organization. The Santa Club has met with wonderful reviews, even winning a Mom’s Choice Award, awarded to those who create family-friendly media resources. The corresponding website, The Santa Club, offers more information on the book as well as suggestions of ways to give.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Christmas Across Africa - Creche Exhibition
African Nativity scenes are on display at the Knights of Columbus Museum’s annual Christmas exhibit Nov. 15 – Feb. 5.The Knights of Columbus Museum presents its seventh annual crèche exhibition, Christmas Across Africa, Nov. 15, 2011 to Feb. 5, 2012. The display has nearly 100 crèches, statues and other artwork from 23 African countries and tribes, including wood and stone sculptures, Coptic icons, banana leaf Nativity scenes, polished stones and papyrus paintings.
The annual Christmas Tree Festival opens Dec. 4 featuring trees decorated with handmade ornaments by regional school children reflecting the artistic traditions of African nations.
The Museum, located at 1 State St. in New Haven, is open daily 10 am to 5 pm (though closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). Admission and parking are free. For info, call 203-865-0400 or visit kofcmuseum.org.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
This is the prayer that was on the card from the Marianist Mission my mother sent me for Thanksgiving:
Good and gracious God, we come before You today united with all who give You thanks and praise. Fill us with gratitude for Your many blessings, both physical and spiritual.
We thank You in particular this day for the gifts of food and family. Bless this food, Lord, that it may nourish our bodies. Bless our family, especially those who can't be with us today. Also today, we remember those of our family who have gone to be with You.
Grant us Your spiritual blessings and help us pray daily for the grace to serve You in response to Your bountiful gifts to us. Bless all who serve You throughout the World.
We pray this in the name of Jesus, Your Son, Our Lord, who gives all things freely according to our needs. Continue to bless us and give us Your peace. Amen.
Good and gracious God, we come before You today united with all who give You thanks and praise. Fill us with gratitude for Your many blessings, both physical and spiritual.
We thank You in particular this day for the gifts of food and family. Bless this food, Lord, that it may nourish our bodies. Bless our family, especially those who can't be with us today. Also today, we remember those of our family who have gone to be with You.
Grant us Your spiritual blessings and help us pray daily for the grace to serve You in response to Your bountiful gifts to us. Bless all who serve You throughout the World.
We pray this in the name of Jesus, Your Son, Our Lord, who gives all things freely according to our needs. Continue to bless us and give us Your peace. Amen.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Praising God for Our Problems
This was today's Living Faith reflection by Fr. Mitch Pacwa from his book: How to Listen When God Is Speaking: A Guide for Modern-Day Catholics
When we are upset, anxious and complaining about our problems, we are like a parked car. Our Lord can redirect us, but we resist his efforts. However, when we begin praising the Lord for our difficulties, then we are like that car in motion. Praising God for our problems and not despite them does not mean that we necessarily feel elated, giddy, or happy about those problems. We may still feel the same sadness and grief for the difficulty. However, despite our feeling, we can make an act of the will to praise God anyway. The act of the will is what our Lord can more easily redirect. Eventually both peace and joy will return, but they will come not just because we may have gotten what we wanted but because we see God present and active in our lives.
When we are upset, anxious and complaining about our problems, we are like a parked car. Our Lord can redirect us, but we resist his efforts. However, when we begin praising the Lord for our difficulties, then we are like that car in motion. Praising God for our problems and not despite them does not mean that we necessarily feel elated, giddy, or happy about those problems. We may still feel the same sadness and grief for the difficulty. However, despite our feeling, we can make an act of the will to praise God anyway. The act of the will is what our Lord can more easily redirect. Eventually both peace and joy will return, but they will come not just because we may have gotten what we wanted but because we see God present and active in our lives.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Saying Good-Bye to the Old English Translation of the Mass
I know many of you are very excited about the new English translation of the Mass, but as someone who isn't particularly fond of change, I feel a bit sad about the ending of an era. It just so happened that my younger son was scheduled to altar serve at the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Sunday, so we ended up attending the very last Sunday Mass in our parish with the old translation. It was bittersweet to be there. Our pastor talked about the upcoming changes and we all read over the new placards in the pews that have the new texts.
The Mass itself isn't changing, of course, and I understand the reason for the change in the words - the more authentic translation of the Latin text and an increased reverence, but still, the old translation is the only one I have ever known. It is comfortable - an old friend, and I will miss it.
I realize that this is nothing like the change my parents went through as young adults when the Mass changed from Latin to English. I also know, in time, the new translation will flow off my tongue (well, perhaps not the word "consubstantial") and someday I probably won't even remember the old version. It will just take some getting used to. But, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the end of the old, before embracing the new beginning.
The Mass itself isn't changing, of course, and I understand the reason for the change in the words - the more authentic translation of the Latin text and an increased reverence, but still, the old translation is the only one I have ever known. It is comfortable - an old friend, and I will miss it.
I realize that this is nothing like the change my parents went through as young adults when the Mass changed from Latin to English. I also know, in time, the new translation will flow off my tongue (well, perhaps not the word "consubstantial") and someday I probably won't even remember the old version. It will just take some getting used to. But, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the end of the old, before embracing the new beginning.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
More than 100 Reasons to Be Thankful, Even in Hard Times
Two years ago, I asked many people, both young and old, what they were thankful for in order to compile a list of 100 reasons to be thankful, even in hard times. While some time has passed since I put together that list, times are definitely still hard and the list is definitely still relevant. Looking it over, however, I decided that there were some things I would personally like to add to the list.
For many people, this has been the year of weather-related disasters. My own area of western Massachusetts has seen a tornado, microburst, hurricane, and an October snowstorm which caused an incredible amount of damage. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has been here way more than we would like. After losing our power for a full week, this year I am definitely thankful for the basics – electricity, hot water, heat, and being able to do the laundry. I am also incredibly thankful for good neighbors and friends who made going through that experience much easier. I am also very thankful for all the electrical workers and tree-removal people who came from far and wide to help – after the tornado and after the snowstorm.
In technological developments, while I don’t personally own either one, smartphones and tablet computers are constantly evolving and changing our world. I’m thankful for them as well. I’m also thankful for more traditional means of getting information. I still love to read my newspaper every morning and my children enjoy the comics. I hope that they continuing publishing for a long time to come.
That being said, I now offer you the original list. I encourage you to add your own reasons to be thankful in the comments section. No matter how hard life gets, we all have much to be thankful for. I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for . . .
1. The health of my family.
2. Taking naps on the couch or in the backyard.
3. Driving the scenic route.
4. Community events open to the public.
5. My (flawed) relationships with God and my family, both immediate and extended. Flawed relationships are much better than none at all!
6. My wife and I have grown together and I am constantly grateful and impressed as she matures.
7. The Word of God.
8. Brief and productive meetings.
9. Quilts and blankets, to keep me warm.
10. My wonderful family and for my best friend, who has always been there with quiet support, encouragement, and words of wisdom, through thick and thin since the day we met.
11. The incredible diversity of people on this planet.
12. Co-workers who don't mind switching their days off to help you out.
13. Toys.
14. Dirty dishes because it means we have eaten. Thank you for baby giggles; they keep me sane.
15. That God made me.
16. Teddy bears.
17. The feel of a child’s hand in mine.
18. Waking up when you need to even when the alarm doesn't go off.
19. Babies.
20. The day being silent now that it's over for the little ones.
21. Movies and CDs being available at libraries.
22. The convenience of e-mail.
23. Wrinkle-free clothing.
24. Christmas lights.
25. Friends who care about me enough to tell me when I am being stupid.
26. Our Veterans.
27. Books, because I can experience the world, learn new things, laugh, cry and connect without ever leaving my couch.
28. My job, especially in this economy.
29. Religious leaders.
30. Volunteers.
31. A cup of hot cocoa on a cold day.
32. Family and friends; love them all!
33. The smell of homemade desserts baking in the oven.
34. Listening to beautiful music.
35. Friends meeting over a cup of tea; a fire in the hearth; a friendly game of Scrabble.
36. My kids, who can always make me laugh.
37. Being friends with my parents.
38. Every member of my family, especially for my mom who is a constant source of support, encouragement and friendship.
39. Enjoyable conversation between friends.
40. Hugs.
41. My family, having a job, having health insurance, and being loved as much as I am.
42. My health, even if I complain about certain aches and pains!
43. My family, my fiancé and being able to go to college.
44. Having a roof over my head.
45. Finding a dollar in an old coat you haven't worn in years.
46. Enjoyable hobbies and pursuits in life.
47. The forgiveness of God.
48. Schools and colleges.
49. A dictionary & thesaurus, both within arm’s reach.
50. Repairing an object yourself and having it come out perfectly.
51. Hot showers after a hard day of work to ease away the stress of the day.
52. The express line at the grocery store.
53. The generosity of strangers.
54. “Chick Flicks” vs. “Action Movies” and explaining why yours is more enjoyable to the "other team".
55. Tossed aside treasures at tag sales or wherever they may be found.
56. Duct-Tape!
57. Good role-models we can point to for children to aspire to emulate.
58. Indoor plumbing - imagine life without it.
59. Date nights.
60. Inspiring words that lift our souls in times of crisis.
61. Youth and amateur sports leagues to both watch and play in.
62. People who obey traffic regulations.
63. The trials and losses in my life for they have helped me become a stronger and better person!
64. Our favorite instructors and teachers.
65. People who enjoy reading what we write.
66. Chocolate!
67. Hidden places that you can sneak away to.
68. Health care workers.
69. Internet Maps and GPS devices.
70. Lucky old coins and favorite treasures, both precious and humble.
71. The spring that will come after the winter.
72. All those who came before us great and small have a story to tell. That is what history is all about. So I am thankful to be able to know and learn their stories.
73. Old libraries and their treasures which lay hidden and wait to be re-discovered.
74. People with interesting personalities who make the world better or at the very least, more interesting.
75. Brothers and sisters.
76. Word processing software.
77. Sitting in an open field on a crystal clear night and enjoying the celestial display above.
78. Our furry four-legged friends who have chosen to live their lives with us.
79. Being able to sit at a computer and just watch music videos when we are supposed to be working.
80. Sunrises, sunsets, ocean waves, hidden forests, mossy rocks and mountain streams and all the other wonderments of nature.
81. Our Guardian Angels who stay with us even when we try to refuse their help.
82. A child’s laughter.
83. The wisdom of elders.
84. Works of art.
85. Those perfect parking places which sometimes we are lucky enough to get.
86. The creative minds of others and what they share with us all.
87. Photos, for capturing a moment in time.
88. Relaxing periods of quiet during a busy day.
89. To live in a free country.
90. Bookmarks! No need to fold pages!
91. Museums.
92. Social Networking sites. I've always wanted to know what people I haven't seen since grade school are up to.
93. Sweaters, hats, scarves and gloves.
94. Search engine searches that actually turn up useful results.
95. Good listeners.
96. Parks.
97. Hand-written letters.
98. Bread, the universal side to any meal.
99. Buy one, get two free sales.
100. People who commit their lives to protecting and preserving our cities, states and country.
For many people, this has been the year of weather-related disasters. My own area of western Massachusetts has seen a tornado, microburst, hurricane, and an October snowstorm which caused an incredible amount of damage. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has been here way more than we would like. After losing our power for a full week, this year I am definitely thankful for the basics – electricity, hot water, heat, and being able to do the laundry. I am also incredibly thankful for good neighbors and friends who made going through that experience much easier. I am also very thankful for all the electrical workers and tree-removal people who came from far and wide to help – after the tornado and after the snowstorm.
In technological developments, while I don’t personally own either one, smartphones and tablet computers are constantly evolving and changing our world. I’m thankful for them as well. I’m also thankful for more traditional means of getting information. I still love to read my newspaper every morning and my children enjoy the comics. I hope that they continuing publishing for a long time to come.
That being said, I now offer you the original list. I encourage you to add your own reasons to be thankful in the comments section. No matter how hard life gets, we all have much to be thankful for. I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for . . .
1. The health of my family.
2. Taking naps on the couch or in the backyard.
3. Driving the scenic route.
4. Community events open to the public.
5. My (flawed) relationships with God and my family, both immediate and extended. Flawed relationships are much better than none at all!
6. My wife and I have grown together and I am constantly grateful and impressed as she matures.
7. The Word of God.
8. Brief and productive meetings.
9. Quilts and blankets, to keep me warm.
10. My wonderful family and for my best friend, who has always been there with quiet support, encouragement, and words of wisdom, through thick and thin since the day we met.
11. The incredible diversity of people on this planet.
12. Co-workers who don't mind switching their days off to help you out.
13. Toys.
14. Dirty dishes because it means we have eaten. Thank you for baby giggles; they keep me sane.
15. That God made me.
16. Teddy bears.
17. The feel of a child’s hand in mine.
18. Waking up when you need to even when the alarm doesn't go off.
19. Babies.
20. The day being silent now that it's over for the little ones.
21. Movies and CDs being available at libraries.
22. The convenience of e-mail.
23. Wrinkle-free clothing.
24. Christmas lights.
25. Friends who care about me enough to tell me when I am being stupid.
26. Our Veterans.
27. Books, because I can experience the world, learn new things, laugh, cry and connect without ever leaving my couch.
28. My job, especially in this economy.
29. Religious leaders.
30. Volunteers.
31. A cup of hot cocoa on a cold day.
32. Family and friends; love them all!
33. The smell of homemade desserts baking in the oven.
34. Listening to beautiful music.
35. Friends meeting over a cup of tea; a fire in the hearth; a friendly game of Scrabble.
36. My kids, who can always make me laugh.
37. Being friends with my parents.
38. Every member of my family, especially for my mom who is a constant source of support, encouragement and friendship.
39. Enjoyable conversation between friends.
40. Hugs.
41. My family, having a job, having health insurance, and being loved as much as I am.
42. My health, even if I complain about certain aches and pains!
43. My family, my fiancé and being able to go to college.
44. Having a roof over my head.
45. Finding a dollar in an old coat you haven't worn in years.
46. Enjoyable hobbies and pursuits in life.
47. The forgiveness of God.
48. Schools and colleges.
49. A dictionary & thesaurus, both within arm’s reach.
50. Repairing an object yourself and having it come out perfectly.
51. Hot showers after a hard day of work to ease away the stress of the day.
52. The express line at the grocery store.
53. The generosity of strangers.
54. “Chick Flicks” vs. “Action Movies” and explaining why yours is more enjoyable to the "other team".
55. Tossed aside treasures at tag sales or wherever they may be found.
56. Duct-Tape!
57. Good role-models we can point to for children to aspire to emulate.
58. Indoor plumbing - imagine life without it.
59. Date nights.
60. Inspiring words that lift our souls in times of crisis.
61. Youth and amateur sports leagues to both watch and play in.
62. People who obey traffic regulations.
63. The trials and losses in my life for they have helped me become a stronger and better person!
64. Our favorite instructors and teachers.
65. People who enjoy reading what we write.
66. Chocolate!
67. Hidden places that you can sneak away to.
68. Health care workers.
69. Internet Maps and GPS devices.
70. Lucky old coins and favorite treasures, both precious and humble.
71. The spring that will come after the winter.
72. All those who came before us great and small have a story to tell. That is what history is all about. So I am thankful to be able to know and learn their stories.
73. Old libraries and their treasures which lay hidden and wait to be re-discovered.
74. People with interesting personalities who make the world better or at the very least, more interesting.
75. Brothers and sisters.
76. Word processing software.
77. Sitting in an open field on a crystal clear night and enjoying the celestial display above.
78. Our furry four-legged friends who have chosen to live their lives with us.
79. Being able to sit at a computer and just watch music videos when we are supposed to be working.
80. Sunrises, sunsets, ocean waves, hidden forests, mossy rocks and mountain streams and all the other wonderments of nature.
81. Our Guardian Angels who stay with us even when we try to refuse their help.
82. A child’s laughter.
83. The wisdom of elders.
84. Works of art.
85. Those perfect parking places which sometimes we are lucky enough to get.
86. The creative minds of others and what they share with us all.
87. Photos, for capturing a moment in time.
88. Relaxing periods of quiet during a busy day.
89. To live in a free country.
90. Bookmarks! No need to fold pages!
91. Museums.
92. Social Networking sites. I've always wanted to know what people I haven't seen since grade school are up to.
93. Sweaters, hats, scarves and gloves.
94. Search engine searches that actually turn up useful results.
95. Good listeners.
96. Parks.
97. Hand-written letters.
98. Bread, the universal side to any meal.
99. Buy one, get two free sales.
100. People who commit their lives to protecting and preserving our cities, states and country.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Blessed Hermann of Reichenau
As part of the boys' schooling this year, we are reading Stories of the Saints from Catholic Heritage Curricula. I've really been impressed by this book. The stories are very engaging and I've been learning new things as well.
This week, we learned about Blessed Hermann of Reichenau. I pray the "Hail Holy Queen" every day as part of the rosary. I can honestly say that I never thought about the man who wrote it, however. Blessed Hermann was that man! He lived a very remarkable life. Here is his story (or at least the Wikipedia version):
Hermann of Reichenau (1013 July 18 – 1054 September 24), also called Hermannus Contractus or Hermannus Augiensis or Herman the Cripple, was an 11th century scholar, composer, music theorist, mathematician, and astronomer. He composed the Marian prayer Alma Redemptoris Mater. He was beatified (cultus confirmed) in 1863.
Hermann was a son of the duke of Altshausen. He was crippled by a paralytic disease from early childhood. He was born in 1013 with a cleft palate, cerebral palsy and spina bifida. [None of the sources cited just the specific diagnosis of spina bifida]. As a result he had great difficulty moving and could hardly speak. At the age of seven he was placed in a Benedictine monastery by his parents who could no longer look after him. He grew up in the monastery, learning from the monks and developing a keen interest in both theology and the world around him.
He spent most of his life in the abbey of Reichenau, an island on Lake Constance. Hermannus contributed to all four arts of the quadrivium. He was renowned as a musical composer (among his surviving works are officia for St. Afra and St. Wolfgang). He also wrote a treatise on the science of music, several works on geometry and arithmetics and astronomical treatises (including instructions for the construction of an astrolabe, at the time a very novel device in Western Europe). As a historian, he wrote a detailed chronicle from the birth of Christ to his own present day, for the first time compiling the events of the 1st millennium AD scattered in various chronicles in a single work, ordering them after the reckoning of the Christian era. His disciple Berthold of Reichenau was its continuator.
At the age of twenty Herman was professed as a Benedictine monk; he spent the rest of his life in the monastery. He was literate in several languages, including Arabic, Greek and Latin and wrote about mathematics, astronomy and Christianity. He built musical and astronomical instruments and was also a famed religious poet. [None of the references justify the claim that he could read Arabic. There were few Arabic speaking scholars in Europe at this time, and Herman could not have learned by traveling scholars]. When he went blind in later life he began writing hymns. His best known is Salve Regina (Hail Holy Queen).
Herman died at the age of forty in the monastery in 1054. The Church beatified him in 1863.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Prayer for Caregivers and Care-receivers
I was going through my prayer drawer the other day and came across these two prayers, which had been sent to me from the Friends of St. John the Caregiver. I had never thought of a prayer for care-receivers, but truly, often it is harder to receive help than to give it (at least for me).
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.
Prayer to Our Lady in Need, Patroness of Care-Receivers
My Dear Mother, as you stood at the foot of the cross in need of help, your Son asked St. John to become your caregiver. Be with me now in my time of need. Pray for me and for all care-receivers, that we can accept assistance from others as gratefully and graciously as you did. Amen.
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.
Prayer to Our Lady in Need, Patroness of Care-Receivers
My Dear Mother, as you stood at the foot of the cross in need of help, your Son asked St. John to become your caregiver. Be with me now in my time of need. Pray for me and for all care-receivers, that we can accept assistance from others as gratefully and graciously as you did. Amen.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
A Guest Post by Karina Fabian
Food for the Poor is one of my favorite charities, and fellow Catholic Writer's Guild member Karina Fabian has come up with an innovative way to raise funds for them. Please feel free to repost this and share it with your friends. - Patrice
Dear friends and readers,
This winter, I have two things in my heart and on my mind: caring for those less fortunate than me (or indeed, much of the world) and my DragonEye, PI stories. For Christmas, I’m combining them and would like to share them with you.
Those of you who are “Vern Fans,” know about my dragon who works in our world as a private investigator, and his partner, Sister Grace, a mage and nun in the Faerie Catholic Church. They’ve saved the worlds and their friends in numerous stories and novels. Last year, I wrote a story for Flagship about their first Christmas together. Not only is Grace struggling with the Mundane idea of Christmas, but their home is threatened by a land developer who wants to tear down the entire neighborhood and make a mall. When the Ghosts of Christmas come to visit him, however, Vern and Grace have to solve the mystery before the Christmas Spirits become Angels of Death.
I have revised and am publishing “Christmas Spirits” as a serial story to raise funds for Food for the Poor. This is a wonderful charity that helps people in impoverished nations help themselves. It allows donators to choose their gifts--whether rice for a family for a month, school supplies, livestock, tools or even houses.
I'm asking that you please check out the story, and, if you enjoy it and want to see more, that you donate even a dollar to the cause. Also, if you enjoy the story, let your friends know. I'll post every Tuesday and Thursday as the donations come in. Right now, we have raised enough to send a family 20 baby chicks and are halfway to a fruit tree in addition. Vern would like to send them a cow (he is a dragon, after all), but Sister Grace and I are dreaming of raising enough to buy someone a home. Can you imagine giving a HOUSE for Christmas? Will you help?
Find the story at http://christmasspirits.karinafabian.com. You can also get to it via my website, http://fabianspace.com. Look under the Christmas dragon for the link. You can learn more about Food for the Poor at http://www.foodforthepoor.org.
Dear friends and readers,
This winter, I have two things in my heart and on my mind: caring for those less fortunate than me (or indeed, much of the world) and my DragonEye, PI stories. For Christmas, I’m combining them and would like to share them with you.
Those of you who are “Vern Fans,” know about my dragon who works in our world as a private investigator, and his partner, Sister Grace, a mage and nun in the Faerie Catholic Church. They’ve saved the worlds and their friends in numerous stories and novels. Last year, I wrote a story for Flagship about their first Christmas together. Not only is Grace struggling with the Mundane idea of Christmas, but their home is threatened by a land developer who wants to tear down the entire neighborhood and make a mall. When the Ghosts of Christmas come to visit him, however, Vern and Grace have to solve the mystery before the Christmas Spirits become Angels of Death.
I have revised and am publishing “Christmas Spirits” as a serial story to raise funds for Food for the Poor. This is a wonderful charity that helps people in impoverished nations help themselves. It allows donators to choose their gifts--whether rice for a family for a month, school supplies, livestock, tools or even houses.
I'm asking that you please check out the story, and, if you enjoy it and want to see more, that you donate even a dollar to the cause. Also, if you enjoy the story, let your friends know. I'll post every Tuesday and Thursday as the donations come in. Right now, we have raised enough to send a family 20 baby chicks and are halfway to a fruit tree in addition. Vern would like to send them a cow (he is a dragon, after all), but Sister Grace and I are dreaming of raising enough to buy someone a home. Can you imagine giving a HOUSE for Christmas? Will you help?
Find the story at http://christmasspirits.karinafabian.com. You can also get to it via my website, http://fabianspace.com. Look under the Christmas dragon for the link. You can learn more about Food for the Poor at http://www.foodforthepoor.org.
If you are shopping Amazon this Christmas. . .
If you are planning to get someone you love a new Kindle Fire, Full Color 7" Multi-touch Display, Wi-Fi
, a great book, or any of the other millions of items available through Amazon.com
, please consider clicking through any of the links in this post or the Amazon link on the sidebar. I earn a percentage of each purchase and it helps me keep this blog running!
Thank you, as always, for your continued readership and support!
, a great book, or any of the other millions of items available through Amazon.com
, please consider clicking through any of the links in this post or the Amazon link on the sidebar. I earn a percentage of each purchase and it helps me keep this blog running!Thank you, as always, for your continued readership and support!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Article on "The Way'
I've read quite a few reviews on the new movie "The Way" starring Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez, but this is the best, most comprehensive, ones I have seen: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez on The Way. This is one movie I definitely want to see when it comes out on DVD.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Answering the Call
Elizabeth Ficocelli (who I wrote about in yesterday's article) will be hosting a brand new radio show on St. Gabriel Catholic Radio. "Answering the Call" is a 30-minute program where she'll be interviewing priests, deacons, and religious sisters and brothers in the Columbus Diocese about their spiritual journeys and their religious vocations.
The show will begin airing Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m., starting December 3, 2011. It will be preceded by Father Larry Richards at 9:00 a.m. and Fr. James Wehner (Rector and President of the Pontifical College Josephinum) with his nehttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifw program, Putting on the New Man: The New Evangelization at 10:00 a.m. It promises to be a great line-up of shows!
The launch of Answering The Call comes at a perfect time, when St. Gabriel is on the verge of expanding its signal to reach two thirds of the state of Ohio with a potential listenership of four million people.
Catholic radio is playing an enormous role in the evangelization of Catholics and non-Catholics across the country and around the world. If you cannot get 1580 AM on your radio dial, you can listen live on stgabrielradio.com or download archives of many of its national and local programs.
The show will begin airing Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m., starting December 3, 2011. It will be preceded by Father Larry Richards at 9:00 a.m. and Fr. James Wehner (Rector and President of the Pontifical College Josephinum) with his nehttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifw program, Putting on the New Man: The New Evangelization at 10:00 a.m. It promises to be a great line-up of shows!
The launch of Answering The Call comes at a perfect time, when St. Gabriel is on the verge of expanding its signal to reach two thirds of the state of Ohio with a potential listenership of four million people.
Catholic radio is playing an enormous role in the evangelization of Catholics and non-Catholics across the country and around the world. If you cannot get 1580 AM on your radio dial, you can listen live on stgabrielradio.com or download archives of many of its national and local programs.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Reconciliation: Maintenance for the Soul
How do you think of the Sacrament of Reconciliation? If you are like most Catholics, you probably think of it as little as possible! Or, perhaps, you think of it as something good to have available in the event you do something really, really wrong, but not something you need to concern yourself with otherwise. Or, maybe, you go every year during Lent as part of your Easter duties. You feel it is good to get that fresh start once a year.
As hard as it is to believe, the first Sunday of Advent is right around the corner. The start of a new liturgical year is a good time to take stock of one’s spiritual life. What if, this year, you changed how you think about going to Confession?
I have been reading Seven from Heaven: How the Sacraments Can Heal, Nurture, and Protect Your Family Today, a soon-to-be-published book by Elizabeth Ficocelli. She discusses many reasons why the Sacrament of Reconciliation needs to play a more important role in our spiritual well-being.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a sacrament of healing. When we are sick, we seek out a doctor to help us. When we are spiritually ill due to sin, going to Confession helps to heal our soul. It helps to restore our relationship with God, other people, and the Church. As Ficocelli rightly states, “What we do (or what we fail to do) affects the entire community of believers, as well as the spiritual well-being of the Church.” There is no such thing as a “personal” sin that hurts no one but the person committing it. All sin has a communal dimension.
We don’t only go to the doctor when we are sick, however. We also go in for periodic check-ups, just to make sure everything is working well and that there are no underlying issues lurking under the surface, waiting to cause problems. So it should also be with taking advantage of going to Confession.
None of us is perfect. We always have some sins on our soul. If left untended, those “minor” issues can lead to bigger problems. Reconciliation can help us keep those habitual sins under control. It provides us with God’s grace to do better and root out the sources of sin in our lives. Ficocelli encourages us “to stop thinking of the sacrament as something reserved for grave situations, and begin regarding it as an important source of grace to help us avoid sins and grow in holiness.”
Many years ago, it was a common practice for families to go to Confession every Saturday. Ficocelli shares a wonderful story of such a family. It happened that every Saturday the mother did the laundry and washed all the sheets. When the children came home from getting their souls cleaned, they were able to climb into fresh, clean beds. “The children equated Confession with the feeling of being washed clean and starting the new week fresh and new, just like their bed sheets.”
Perhaps for this coming year, you could start making going to Confession at least once a month a family affair. Children need to go to Confession regularly just as much as adults do. They need the help that it provides and it is good for them to be in the habit of going to Confession for when the more serious temptations and sins of the teen years come into play.
Yes, going to Confession can be difficult. It is humbling and forces us to face our own weakness, but I have generally found that the more frequently you go, the easier it becomes. You start to look forward to that periodic soul cleaning. Attending the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly is an important part of keeping one’s soul in good working order. Don’t neglect this essential maintenance tool.
As hard as it is to believe, the first Sunday of Advent is right around the corner. The start of a new liturgical year is a good time to take stock of one’s spiritual life. What if, this year, you changed how you think about going to Confession?
I have been reading Seven from Heaven: How the Sacraments Can Heal, Nurture, and Protect Your Family Today, a soon-to-be-published book by Elizabeth Ficocelli. She discusses many reasons why the Sacrament of Reconciliation needs to play a more important role in our spiritual well-being.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a sacrament of healing. When we are sick, we seek out a doctor to help us. When we are spiritually ill due to sin, going to Confession helps to heal our soul. It helps to restore our relationship with God, other people, and the Church. As Ficocelli rightly states, “What we do (or what we fail to do) affects the entire community of believers, as well as the spiritual well-being of the Church.” There is no such thing as a “personal” sin that hurts no one but the person committing it. All sin has a communal dimension.
We don’t only go to the doctor when we are sick, however. We also go in for periodic check-ups, just to make sure everything is working well and that there are no underlying issues lurking under the surface, waiting to cause problems. So it should also be with taking advantage of going to Confession.
None of us is perfect. We always have some sins on our soul. If left untended, those “minor” issues can lead to bigger problems. Reconciliation can help us keep those habitual sins under control. It provides us with God’s grace to do better and root out the sources of sin in our lives. Ficocelli encourages us “to stop thinking of the sacrament as something reserved for grave situations, and begin regarding it as an important source of grace to help us avoid sins and grow in holiness.”
Many years ago, it was a common practice for families to go to Confession every Saturday. Ficocelli shares a wonderful story of such a family. It happened that every Saturday the mother did the laundry and washed all the sheets. When the children came home from getting their souls cleaned, they were able to climb into fresh, clean beds. “The children equated Confession with the feeling of being washed clean and starting the new week fresh and new, just like their bed sheets.”
Perhaps for this coming year, you could start making going to Confession at least once a month a family affair. Children need to go to Confession regularly just as much as adults do. They need the help that it provides and it is good for them to be in the habit of going to Confession for when the more serious temptations and sins of the teen years come into play.
Yes, going to Confession can be difficult. It is humbling and forces us to face our own weakness, but I have generally found that the more frequently you go, the easier it becomes. You start to look forward to that periodic soul cleaning. Attending the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly is an important part of keeping one’s soul in good working order. Don’t neglect this essential maintenance tool.
Friday, November 11, 2011
God's Greatest Gift
I saw this advertised in a magazine today and fell in love with the image of the tiny baby resting in God's hand. What a beautiful gift for a child's birth or baptism! Find out more at God's Greatest Gift
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Cute Christian Tees for Little Ones
The National Catholic Register just ran a story on Saintly Tees. Each shirt features a cute illustration with a Scripture verse or Christian saying on the bottom. Sizes available are from newborn to twenty-four months.
You can read the article at http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/saintly-apparel-for-kids1/ or visit the Saintly Tees site at Saintly Tees. They are currently featuring special pricing for Christmas.
You can read the article at http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/saintly-apparel-for-kids1/ or visit the Saintly Tees site at Saintly Tees. They are currently featuring special pricing for Christmas.
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
The Joy of Reading Aloud
Many years ago, long before I had ever had children, I had met a man at a work function who spoke about how he still enjoyed reading to his thirteen year-old daughter. At the time, I thought he was a little bit strange. After all, no one in my family had read aloud to me once I knew how to read by myself. I didn't really see the point.
Yet, I now recognize the treasure this man had found. My children are 10 1/2 and 9, both are very capable independent readers, and they still ask me to read to them. I enjoy reading to them as well. I always have. I've been exposed to books I might not otherwise have read and gained entrance into the world that captivates their imaginations. By the same token, I've been able to introduce them to some books that might never have otherwise read. It can be easier to tackle a classic when Mom is the one doing the reading.
I don't know how long these read-alouds will continue. I imagine the day will come when they decide they no longer want to share stories with Mom, but I will always remember with fondness the times that we shared together curled up with a good book. I hope that they will as well.
Yet, I now recognize the treasure this man had found. My children are 10 1/2 and 9, both are very capable independent readers, and they still ask me to read to them. I enjoy reading to them as well. I always have. I've been exposed to books I might not otherwise have read and gained entrance into the world that captivates their imaginations. By the same token, I've been able to introduce them to some books that might never have otherwise read. It can be easier to tackle a classic when Mom is the one doing the reading.
I don't know how long these read-alouds will continue. I imagine the day will come when they decide they no longer want to share stories with Mom, but I will always remember with fondness the times that we shared together curled up with a good book. I hope that they will as well.
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Motherhood Matters
The past couple weeks, I've been reading Motherhood Matters by Dorothy Pilarski. I first "met" Dorothy some time ago when she asked permission to use one of my articles in this book. I happily agreed. Since then, I featured some of her articles on Catholic Exchange and hope to do so on Catholic Lane as well. She is a Canadian mother, writer, television personality, speaker and consultant. Her columns are always thought-provoking.
This book is a collection of her essays (and one of mine!) reflecting on motherhood and life as a woman in this century. As she is Canadian, some of the references will seem strange to American women. For example, she expresses sorrow at the fact many women return to work after their one year of maternity leave. Sadly, six weeks is the norm here. How I wish we had such family-friendly policies!
While she touches on many other topics (my own article is about looking back at our life of prayer), her primary argument and purpose in writing the book is to encourage mothers to stay home with their children as much as possible and nurture the bond that exists between mother and child. Stay-at-home mothers will feel appreciated, vindicated, and renewed in their commitment to their vocation.
Motherhood Matters can be found at CatholicRegister.org
The Myth of Homeschooling
The other day, I was half-jokingly trying to talk my friends into doing a reality show about homeschooling moms. Unfortunately, they weren't buying the idea. As one put it, "I'd much rather have people believe the myth."
The Sept/Oct 2011 issue of the HSLDA Home School Court Report features an article by Michael O. Farris on "Ten Lessons I've Learned from Thirty Years of Homeschooling," and offers this synopsis of the myth:
You have heard the stories - you know . . . the family with 12 children, all under age 9, whose 6-year-old has learned to solve three-variable algebra problems by studying the number of Hebrew syllables in the Pentateuch. Their 9-year-old has fully funded his college education by selling organic muffins door-to-door, using the ingredients his 7-year-old sister grew in the 40-acre herb farm she operates. There was enough money left over for Mom to run down to the fabric store (being sure to take all the kids with her so that she could teach a math lesson while buying material). She then bought enough material to make all of the girls matching dresses, all of the boys matching vests, and matching curtains to hang over the kitchen sink.
Ummmm. . . maybe not! But that is what homeschooling books and websites can often lead you to believe - that every moment is wonderful, every circumstance a learning opportunity, and that homeschooled children are always happy and eager to learn.
The reality on any given day can be far different. As homeschoolers, we are still on the fringe of "normal," even though there are far more of us than they used to be. We are often called upon to defend our choice and to prove our children are doing well in order to silence the naysayers. Therefore, we may be prone to paint a overly rosy picture to the outside world.
The truth is, homeschooling does have its perfect moments - moments full of the magic and wonder of learning when everything falls into place and it is all incredibly worth it. But, those moments are the exception. The reality is most of the time, we just muddle through and hope for the best. The grace of God keeps us going through the frustration, the worry, and the whining (both ours and the kids').
Those of us who choose to leave the well-trod path of traditional schooling and jump off a cliff into the world of homeschooling were called to this task. We each have our own stories, our own reasons, our own circumstances. We are all different, but we share a common lifestyle. Even amidst the messiness and the imperfection, it is a good way to live. Perhaps someday, we'll be able to be a bit more honest about what our lives look like and we'll be able to put the homeschooling myth to bed once and for all. Until then, I guess that reality show will just have to wait!
The Sept/Oct 2011 issue of the HSLDA Home School Court Report features an article by Michael O. Farris on "Ten Lessons I've Learned from Thirty Years of Homeschooling," and offers this synopsis of the myth:
You have heard the stories - you know . . . the family with 12 children, all under age 9, whose 6-year-old has learned to solve three-variable algebra problems by studying the number of Hebrew syllables in the Pentateuch. Their 9-year-old has fully funded his college education by selling organic muffins door-to-door, using the ingredients his 7-year-old sister grew in the 40-acre herb farm she operates. There was enough money left over for Mom to run down to the fabric store (being sure to take all the kids with her so that she could teach a math lesson while buying material). She then bought enough material to make all of the girls matching dresses, all of the boys matching vests, and matching curtains to hang over the kitchen sink.
Ummmm. . . maybe not! But that is what homeschooling books and websites can often lead you to believe - that every moment is wonderful, every circumstance a learning opportunity, and that homeschooled children are always happy and eager to learn.
The reality on any given day can be far different. As homeschoolers, we are still on the fringe of "normal," even though there are far more of us than they used to be. We are often called upon to defend our choice and to prove our children are doing well in order to silence the naysayers. Therefore, we may be prone to paint a overly rosy picture to the outside world.
The truth is, homeschooling does have its perfect moments - moments full of the magic and wonder of learning when everything falls into place and it is all incredibly worth it. But, those moments are the exception. The reality is most of the time, we just muddle through and hope for the best. The grace of God keeps us going through the frustration, the worry, and the whining (both ours and the kids').
Those of us who choose to leave the well-trod path of traditional schooling and jump off a cliff into the world of homeschooling were called to this task. We each have our own stories, our own reasons, our own circumstances. We are all different, but we share a common lifestyle. Even amidst the messiness and the imperfection, it is a good way to live. Perhaps someday, we'll be able to be a bit more honest about what our lives look like and we'll be able to put the homeschooling myth to bed once and for all. Until then, I guess that reality show will just have to wait!
Monday, November 07, 2011
Understanding Suicide
November is a month to remember those who have died in a special way. When I got in my most recent Alumni Magazine in, I noticed with sadness that one of my classmates in graduate school - Katie Keator - had passed away. She was only a few years older than I and we were, by far, the youngest students in the program at the time. I presumed she had died of cancer or some other unfortunate disease.
That was not the case. The most recent issue of The Catholic Mirror featured an article on Understanding Suicide and profiled Katie and her family. Sadly, Katie took her own life at the age of 41. Her father is a Deacon and he stated that the family wanted to be up front and honest about the cause of her death:
He wants people to see suicide as a psychological problem. "It wasn't Katie who killed herself. It was a different person, because the Katie we knew - I don't think she was capable of doing that," he says. . . ."Suicide is a mortal sin but in order to commit that you must have full awareness and consent. How can a person with a mental disorder have full consent?" says Deacon George.
During this month, let us remember those who have taken their own lives and their families in a special way. Suicide is so painful, both for those who see no other way out and for those left behind to make sense of it and, with God's help, bring some good out of it.
That was not the case. The most recent issue of The Catholic Mirror featured an article on Understanding Suicide and profiled Katie and her family. Sadly, Katie took her own life at the age of 41. Her father is a Deacon and he stated that the family wanted to be up front and honest about the cause of her death:
He wants people to see suicide as a psychological problem. "It wasn't Katie who killed herself. It was a different person, because the Katie we knew - I don't think she was capable of doing that," he says. . . ."Suicide is a mortal sin but in order to commit that you must have full awareness and consent. How can a person with a mental disorder have full consent?" says Deacon George.
During this month, let us remember those who have taken their own lives and their families in a special way. Suicide is so painful, both for those who see no other way out and for those left behind to make sense of it and, with God's help, bring some good out of it.
Sunday, November 06, 2011
The Power is Back!
The power came back on last night - after 7 days and 4 hours. It was such a blessing to have heat and be able to do laundry today. Never-the-less, I am mentally and physically worn out so there won't be a formal column this week. I hope to be back to writing columns next Sunday. Thank you for understanding.
Thursday, November 03, 2011
Why the World Needs Special Kids
In light of the fact that A Special Mother is Born: Parents share how God called them to the extraordinary vocation of parenting a special needs child
is now available for purchase, I am reposting this review:
How many times have you heard an expectant mom say, “I don’t care if it is a boy or a girl, as long as the baby is healthy?” But what happens when the baby isn’t healthy? How does one’s world change when a child is diagnosed with major health issues, either before or soon after birth? Is it worth having a child diagnosed with severe special needs in utero if he won’t live long or will have a poor quality of life?
For the contributors to A Special Mother is Born, edited by Leticia Velasquez, the answer to that last question is a resounding “yes.” As a result of her daughter Christina being born with Down Syndrome, Velasquez has become a pro-life crusader, determined to change the statistic that 90 % of children with Down Syndrome are killed via abortion. The parents who share their stories in this book want to educate others about the value and joy of special needs children.
In his inaugural address, Pope Benedict XVI stated that “Each of us is the result of a thought of God. Each of us is willed, each of us is loved, each of us is necessary.” The children profiled in A Special Mother is Born have Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18, autism, brain abnormalities, epilepsy, deafness, blindness, and other challenges. Yet, they have touched the lives of their families and the world around them immeasurably. Some of the children died at very young ages – their parents speak of them as saints in heaven. These are children who never sinned. They are with God interceding for their family members. As Colleen McGuire writes of her daughter Rita who died of Trisomy 18 soon after birth, “I don’t regret one moment of her life. My daughter lived a novena: nine days of love.”
These parents acknowledge the suffering and difficulties involved in raising a special needs child. No parent ever wants to see their child suffer or struggle through life. Yet, the experience has brought them to greater trust in God. Diane Grover writes, “We realized we must surrender it all to God; we must humbly hand it all over to Him. He created this child for His purpose. He created this child for His plans. Whatever comes will happen in His time and in His way.”
Lisa Barker has learned to endure great suffering watching her daughter die. “I’d like to write that everything is going to be okay. It will be, but there is suffering to embrace that I cannot run from. Without Jesus’ life, example and presence, it is impossible to do. But with Him, it can be done, and there can be a sense of peace and joy even in the midst of sorrow.”
Most often, it is fear of the unknown that causes women to abort their special-needs children. Eileen Haupt states, “If only a mother expecting a special needs child could know who her child really is. If only she could feel the joy and the love that she will feel for her baby if she welcomes her into the world. If only she knew how many hearts would be changed by her special baby’s presence. If only she knew, she would never abort.”
There is currently a war going on against special needs children. While those with Down Syndrome have been the primary targets to date due to pre-natal testing, it is only a matter of time before other abnormalities are also targeted. While there are certainly exceptions, the majority of doctors are far too quick to suggest abortion when something is wrong with the baby. They fail to see the blessings and lessons that these children can bring to the world. They fail to acknowledge the inherent worth of every person created by God. We must fight for life for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Grab a box of tissues and read A Special Mother is Born. Whether you are the parent of a special needs child or not, these stories will open your eyes and your heart and help you to appreciate the value of every child God sends to this world.
is now available for purchase, I am reposting this review:How many times have you heard an expectant mom say, “I don’t care if it is a boy or a girl, as long as the baby is healthy?” But what happens when the baby isn’t healthy? How does one’s world change when a child is diagnosed with major health issues, either before or soon after birth? Is it worth having a child diagnosed with severe special needs in utero if he won’t live long or will have a poor quality of life?
For the contributors to A Special Mother is Born, edited by Leticia Velasquez, the answer to that last question is a resounding “yes.” As a result of her daughter Christina being born with Down Syndrome, Velasquez has become a pro-life crusader, determined to change the statistic that 90 % of children with Down Syndrome are killed via abortion. The parents who share their stories in this book want to educate others about the value and joy of special needs children.
In his inaugural address, Pope Benedict XVI stated that “Each of us is the result of a thought of God. Each of us is willed, each of us is loved, each of us is necessary.” The children profiled in A Special Mother is Born have Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18, autism, brain abnormalities, epilepsy, deafness, blindness, and other challenges. Yet, they have touched the lives of their families and the world around them immeasurably. Some of the children died at very young ages – their parents speak of them as saints in heaven. These are children who never sinned. They are with God interceding for their family members. As Colleen McGuire writes of her daughter Rita who died of Trisomy 18 soon after birth, “I don’t regret one moment of her life. My daughter lived a novena: nine days of love.”
These parents acknowledge the suffering and difficulties involved in raising a special needs child. No parent ever wants to see their child suffer or struggle through life. Yet, the experience has brought them to greater trust in God. Diane Grover writes, “We realized we must surrender it all to God; we must humbly hand it all over to Him. He created this child for His purpose. He created this child for His plans. Whatever comes will happen in His time and in His way.”
Lisa Barker has learned to endure great suffering watching her daughter die. “I’d like to write that everything is going to be okay. It will be, but there is suffering to embrace that I cannot run from. Without Jesus’ life, example and presence, it is impossible to do. But with Him, it can be done, and there can be a sense of peace and joy even in the midst of sorrow.”
Most often, it is fear of the unknown that causes women to abort their special-needs children. Eileen Haupt states, “If only a mother expecting a special needs child could know who her child really is. If only she could feel the joy and the love that she will feel for her baby if she welcomes her into the world. If only she knew how many hearts would be changed by her special baby’s presence. If only she knew, she would never abort.”
There is currently a war going on against special needs children. While those with Down Syndrome have been the primary targets to date due to pre-natal testing, it is only a matter of time before other abnormalities are also targeted. While there are certainly exceptions, the majority of doctors are far too quick to suggest abortion when something is wrong with the baby. They fail to see the blessings and lessons that these children can bring to the world. They fail to acknowledge the inherent worth of every person created by God. We must fight for life for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Grab a box of tissues and read A Special Mother is Born. Whether you are the parent of a special needs child or not, these stories will open your eyes and your heart and help you to appreciate the value of every child God sends to this world.
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