Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Walk 80 Miles for Mary this May!

It's Spring (finally!) which makes it a wonderful time to go outside and take a nice, long walk - many of them.

Denise Johnson-Bossert, author of Gifts of the Visitation: Nine Spiritual Encounters with Mary and Elizabeth, has come up with a great idea to put some added purpose behind that spring exercise. She has started "Walking with Mary this May" - (https://www.facebook.com/events/784292698353727/) - "We're going to walk or run 80 miles this May--the distance from Nazareth to Ein Kerem. [This is the route Mary took to visit Elizabeth] You can do it anywhere ... outside, on a treadmill, in your country of choice. Just get moving, and take Mary with you."

So, put on your walking shoes and join us in this fun and prayerful venture!

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Answering the Call: Service and Charity in the Civil War

To mark the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War’s end, the Knights of Columbus Museum presents Answering the Call, an exhibition profiling various military and civilian support figures during the four-year conflict (1861-1865).

Answering the Call focuses on religious ministry and medical care provided to Civil War soldiers. It also includes a history of the 9th Connecticut, a volunteer infantry regiment whose members were predominantly of Irish ancestry, many of whom were from New Haven. The first supreme knight of the Knights of Columbus, James T. Mullen, was a sergeant in the 9th Connecticut.
The show centers on wartime struggles and hardships as well as acts of bravery, charity and compassion in the midst of battle. Catholic soldiers and officers — Confederate and Union — are profiled, together with battlefield chaplains and religious sisters who nursed the wounded in hospitals and prisons.

Answering the Call also includes references to battles and military campaigns, with emphasis on conditions in military encampments and the aftermath of combat, such as medical care and the spiritual needs of the wounded and dying.

Find out more at: http://www.kofcmuseum.org/km/en/exhibits/2015/answering-the-call/index.html

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Introducing Today's Catholic Homeschooling

Please visit my new website devoted to the beauty and diversity of Catholic homeschooling today: http://www.todayscatholichomeschooling.com/

This project has been about a and a half in the making. The idea first came to me in October 2013. I was losing my job at Catholic Lane and and trying to figure out what I was going to do next. The idea for this site came to me in the shower (where many good ideas percolate) and I set to work. I  to create a site where someone could find information on the different styles of homeschooling as well as search for curriculum and find support and encouragement no matter where she was in the homeschooling journey.

The project took a back seat to other projects that came my way, but I would keep working on it from time to time. It was definitely one of my goals for 2015 to get it ready for public viewing. That day came today!

Please consider following Today's Catholic Homeschooling on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TodCathHomeschl and Like it on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/todayscatholichomeschooling

I am also seeking contributions of articles on all aspects of Catholic Homeschooling - product/book reviews, lesson ideas, a day in the life of a homeschooler, challenges, etc. Articles may be sent to editor@todayscatholichomeschooling.com \

Thank you!

Monday, April 20, 2015

Book Review: The Spirit of St. Francis: Inspiring Words from Pope Francis

The Spirit of Saint Francis: Inspiring Words from Pope Francis

Edited by Alicia Von Stamwitz
Cincinnati, OH: Franciscan Media, 2015

Since becoming Pope on March 13, 2013, Pope Francis has taken the world and the Church by storm. He took Francis as his name and "his optimism, courage, and playful sense of humor are reminiscent of the beloved saint." In "The Spirit of St. Francis: Inspiring Words from Pope Francis," editor Alicia Von Stamwitz has collected a quotable collection of Pope Francis' teachings.

Cognizant that the Pope's words have occasionally been taken out of context, Von Stamwitz emphasizes that these quotations "have been selected and arranged with care. They are taken directly from the official Vatican texts of Pope Francis's homilies, speeches, tweets, audiences, prayers, daily meditations, and writings."

The quotations are organized into themes: the love of God, God's forgiveness, God's mercy, prayer, joy, humility, the poor, preaching the Gospel, promoting peace and pardon, and protecting creation. This book is not meant to be read cover to cover, but rather to be opened to a certain section to read a quote or two, and then to reflect upon that quote. It would be a perfect book to have on a nightstand to assist with morning or evening prayer.

Like St. Francis, Pope Francis offers so much food for thought in both his words and his deeds. "The Spirit of Saint Francis" is a wonderful compilation of his most memorable quotes to date.


Friday, April 17, 2015

American Chemical Society Middle School Chemistry

For science this year, the boys (grades 7 and 8) and I used the free lesson plans from The American Chemical Society available at http://www.middleschoolchemistry.com/

Designed for use in a traditional classroom, these lessons were easily adaptable to a homeschool environment. Topics covered include: matter, changes of state, density, periodic table & bonding, water molecule and dissolving, and chemical changes.

This was an incredibly hands-on program which the boys really enjoyed. A few supplies are necessary to buy or borrow, but overall the cost was small for such a quality program. The handful of times I didn't have the materials at my disposal, we simply read through the lessons and watched the accompanying videos. A test bank of questions is also provided so that one can create tests for each chapter with ease.

I highly recommend this program for anyone searching for a chemistry program designed for middle-schoolers.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Shakespeare Saved My Life: Lessons from Behind Bars

I recently read Shakespeare Saved My Life: Ten Years in Solitary with the Bard by Dr. Laura Bates. She tells of her experience teaching Shakespeare in a Maximum Security Prison in Indiana and of one student in particular, Larry Newton, who has been in prison since he was seventeen and will die in prison.



Newton's whole world was changed by being exposed to Shakespeare and has been working from behind bars to help keep other young people going down the same road from following in his footsteps. There are many who argue against educating prisoners such as Larry, but he makes the following case:

"Why should we do good for bad people?" The answer is because 'anything else would be bad.' If we are not doing good for bad people, then we are doing bad for bad people. We should not be working on ways to do bad for isolated populations of people; rather we should work on developing good no matter who is on the receiving end. That is our obligation to society. . .  

We cannot risk not helping. The vast majority of prisoners are going to return home. They are going to be our neighbors and they are going to be around our loved ones. The question really comes down to: what kind of prisoner do you want living next to you? No matter how you feel about the subject, the reality is that these prisoners are indeed coming home, and you do have the power to help shape what kind of neighbor they will be. Why education? Because it is the one science that overwhelmingly works. 



Monday, April 13, 2015

Book Review: Teaching in Your Tiara

Teaching in Your Tiara: A Homeschooling Book for the rest of Us

by Rebecca Frech
Dallas: Scabbed Knee Press, 2013




Are you thinking about homeschooling? Or are you a seasoned homeschooler who is often asked for information about homeschooling? "Teaching in Your Tiara: A Homeschooling Book for the Rest of Us" is a great "intro to homeschooling" book.  Unlike some of those idealistic portraits of homeschooling one often comes across, Rebecca Frech, a Catholic mom of seven, presents a very honest, helpful view of homeschooling, seasoned with a generous helping of humor.

Topics include making the decision, getting Dad on board, talking to your family and friends about homeschooling, choosing curricula, homeschooling with different ages, facing high school, special needs, finding a support group, and how to homeschool and still take care of the house and yourself.

As a veteran homeschooler myself, I found myself nodding along as I read. This is the same information I would give anyone considering homeschooling. It is a wonderful resource for anyone thinking about taking that leap into homeschooling.



Saturday, April 11, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 9

Today bring to Me souls who have become lukewarm, and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. These souls wound My Heart post painfully. My soul suffered the most dreadful loathing in the Garden of Olives because of lukewarm souls. They were the reason I cried out: "Father, take this cup away from Me, if it be Your will." For them, the last hope of salvation is to flee to My mercy.

Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love let those tepid souls, who like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love; and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.

Fire and ice cannot be joine;
Either the fire dies, or the ice melts.
But by Your mercy, O God, 
You can make up for all that is lacking.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls, who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your Mercy.

(1228-1229 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Friday, April 10, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 8

Today bring to me the meek and humble souls and the souls of little children, and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My Heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who would keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. Only the humble soul is able to receive My grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence. 

Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.

A truly gentle and humble soul
already here on earth the air of paradise breathes,
And in the fragrance of her humble heart
The Creator Himself delights.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek and humble souls, and upon the souls of little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen. 

(1220-1223 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Thursday, April 09, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy - Day 7

Today bring to Me the souls who are in the prison of Purgatory, and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents of My Blood cool down their scorching flames. All these souls are greatly loved by Me. They are making retribution to My justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all the indulgences from the treasury of My Church and offer them on their behalf. Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt to My justice.

Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of the purifying fire, that in that place, too, the power of Your mercy may be praised.

From that terrible heat of the cleansing fire
Rises a plaint to Your mercy,
And they receive comfort, refreshment, relief
In the stream of mingled Blood and Water.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded, manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way than through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son, for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. 

(1226-1227 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Wednesday, April 08, 2015

Art in the Midst of Hell: Forbidden Art from Auschwitz

I took my boys on a field trip to Elms College today to visit the Forbidden Art Exhibit (http://www.elms.edu/elms-news/2015-News/Forbidden-Art-Exhibit-Tells-Personal-Stories-of-Auschwitz-Prisoners). This exhibit features large-scale photographs with accompanying descriptions of art made in the concentration camp at Auschwitz.

It is truly powerful to view these pieces. The people who made them were undergoing such horrors, yet their humanity remained. They still had that impulse to create, to contribute to the world, to remember, and perhaps most importantly to hope. There were sculpture and drawings and even a small sarcophagus which held a single bone, an effort to provide a dignified burial in the midst of so much unexplainable death. The one that brought me to tears, however, was a book of fairy tales a father had made for his children back home - heartbreaking.

These pieces are examples of moments of beauty in the midst of hell, a tribute to the human spirit and all who suffered in the concentration camps.

Novena to Divine Mercy - Day 6

Today bring to me the souls who especially venerate and glorify My mercy, and immerse them in My mercy. These souls sorrowed most over My Passion and entered most deeply into My Spirit. They are living images of My Compassionate Heart. These souls will shine with a special brightness in the next life. Not one of them will go into the fire of hell. I shall particularly defend each one of them at the hour of death. 

Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very poser of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy. These souls are united to Jesus and carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life.

A soul who praises the goodness of her Lord
Is especially loved by Him.
She is always close to the living fountain
And draws graces from Mercy Divine.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their spirit, overflowing with joy, sings a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them, I Myself will defend as My own glory, during their lifetime, and especially at the hour of their death, those souls who will venerate My fathomless mercy.


(1224-1225 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Tuesday, April 07, 2015

You are Invited to Make a Marian Consecration with Me

For several reasons, I've held back from making a Marian consecration. (A Marian Consecration means turning one's life over to Jesus through Mary. The idea being that Mary always leads us to her Son and will always help us to God's will). Part of it is that I've always (at least in my opinion) had a good relationship with Mary. I've prayed the rosary daily since I was a little girl. She's always my go-to person for help. Another reason is that giving up another layer of control scares me. How silly of me - to think I am in control of anything in my life. God has proven that to not be the case over and over again. Yet, foolishly, I have persisted in that illusion. A last reason is that I just didn't see the point. After all, I try to do God's will in my life. I fail, but I try, and the sacrament of Confession is my great recourse in the struggle. Did I really need a Marian consecration?

But, after reading The Second Greatest Story Ever Told, I've decided to take the plunge. Maybe it is because I'm now 40, and while that may be just a number, I definitely feel like I am in a different place in life. Also, I'm just worn out by life and hoping this will offer me a new sense of hope and faith. At the very least, like so many devotions of a spiritual nature, I figure it can't hurt.

I'm using Fr. Gaitley's book, 33 Days to Morning Glory: A Do-It-Yourself Retreat In Preparation for Marian Consecration. He suggests picking one of several dates to begin in order to make the consecration on a Marian feast day. The next date is April 10th in order to make the consecration on May 13th, the Feast of our Lady of Fatima. It dovetails nicely with the Easter season.

So, I invite you to take part with me. And even if you don't feel ready to take this step in your life, maybe you could offer a prayer for me as I take this next step in my spiritual journey.

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 5

Today bring to Me the souls of heretics and schismatics, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. During My bitter Passion they tore at My Body and Heart; that is, My Church. As they return to unity with the Church, My wounds heal, and in this way they alleviate My Passion.

Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of heretics and schismatics. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to extol the generosity of Your mercy.

Even for those who have torn the garment of Your unity,
A fount of mercy flows from Your Heart.
The omnipotence of Your mercy, Oh God.
Can lead these souls also out of error.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of heretics and schismatics, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen. 


(1218-1219 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Monday, April 06, 2015

Book Review: The Second Greatest Story Ever Told



by Michael Gaitley, MIC
Stockbridge, MA: Marian Press, 2015

As one might expect, the first greatest story ever told is that of God creating the world and then sending His son to save us from our sins. Throughout human history, God has wanted His people to know Him, to love Him, and to Trust Him, but due to sin, this has not been an easy task. In The Second Greatest Story Ever Told, which is actually a continuation of the first greatest story, Fr. Michael Gaitley makes a compelling argument that the story of Marian Consecration, Divine Mercy, and the life and mission of St. Pope John Paul II are the second most important example of God at work in our world. 

Fr. Gaitley has written a page-turner, connecting St. Margaret Mary, St. Alphonsus, St. Therese, the Marian apparitions at Fatima, St. Faustina, St. Maximilian Kolbe, Polish history, and St. Pope John Paul II is what could be considered a Divine conspiracy. With God there are no coincidences, and through the lens of history we are now able to connect dots that may have previously seemed unrelated.  Even those with a working knowledge of the history of the Divine Mercy Devotion and the life of St. John Paul II will find new information in these pages. The threads working through history are truly amazing. In addition, the connection between Marian Consecration and Divine Mercy is explored in a new way, with St. Pope John Paul II held up as the high example of integrating the two in one’s life. 

Fr. Gaitley’s purpose in writing The Second Greatest Story Ever Told is not merely to recount history, but rather to encourage readers to become part of this great story. The mission of Divine Mercy did not end with the death of Pope John Paul II a decade ago. Rather, we are all called to take part. Pope Francis has said that “It is up to us, as ministers of the Church, to keep alive this message . . .  Now is the time of mercy.” Gaitley offers steps that one can take to be part of this story, including making the Marian Consecration and joining the newly formed Marian Missionaries of Divine Mercy.

For a limited time, you can get a free copy of the book at: http://www.setallafire.org/book

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 4

Today bring to Me the pagans and those who do not yet know Me, I was thinking also of them during My bitter Passion, and their future zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse them in the ocean of My mercy.

Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole word. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of pagans who as yet do not know You. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart.

May the light of Your love
Enlighten the souls in darkness;
Grant that these souls will know You
And, together with us, praise Your mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of pagans and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen. 


(1216-1217 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Sunday, April 05, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 3 Easter Sunday

 Today bring to Me all devout and faithful souls, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. These souls brought Me consolation on the Way of the Cross. They were that drop of consolation in the midst of an ocean of bitterness.

Most merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.

The miracles of mercy are impenetrable.
Neither the sinner no just one with fathom them.
When you cast upon us an eye of pity,
You draw us all closer to Your love.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.


(1214-1215 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Saturday, April 04, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy - Day 2

Today bring to me the souls of priests and religious, and immerse them in My unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave Me the strength to endure My bitter Passion. Through them, as through channels, My mercy flows out upon mankind.

Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in us, that we may perform worthy works of mercy, and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven. 

The fountain of God's love
Dwells in pure hearts,
Bathed in the Sea of Mercy,
Radiant as stars, bright as the dawn.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company [of chosen ones] in your vineyard - upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation, and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.


(1212-1213 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul)

Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Friday, April 03, 2015

Novena to Divine Mercy, Day 1

Today, bring to Me all mankind, especially all sinners, and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. In this way you will console me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges Me.

Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from it. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Oh omnipotence of Divine Mercy,
Salvation of sinful people, 
You are a sea of mercy and compassion;
You aid those who entreat You with humility.

Eternal Father, turn your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy forever and ever. Amen. (1210-1211 in Diary of St. Faustina: Divine Mercy in My Soul
)


Divine Mercy Chaplet

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.
2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.
3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.
(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).
4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

#OpenBook for March 2024

  Welcome to #OpenBook. I'm joining up with Carolyn Astfalk who hosts an #OpenBook Linkup on CatholicMom.com . Here's what I'v...