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On the Importance and Benefits of Holy Water

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theraccolta: On the Importance and Benefits of... - The Light of Faith

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"Pray for Joy!" - Hungary to be Known as "The Nation of the Smile" | Fr.... 17. SIJEČNJASveti Antun Pustinjak – svetac kojeg su progonili demoni U mnogim crkvama događa se 17. siječnja promjena na jednom oltaru: sliku ili kip sv. Antuna Padovanskog zamijeni lik svetog Antuna Pustinjaka. Ta dva sveca imaju ne samo isto ime, nego su im i životi dosta podudarni.Bitno.net Master of the Osservanza Triptych, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Master of the Osservanza Triptych, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsObojica su se u ranoj mladosti posvetila slavi Božjoj. Darovali su svoj život Bogu: dok je Antun Pustinjak cijelo vrijeme života bio na samotnom mjestu – i sveti Antun Padovanski je vrlo rado i često odlazio u samostane u pustim krajevima te u špiljama provodio vrijeme u molitvi i promatranju Isusova Života i Muke.Iz života sv. Antuna Pustinjaka poznato je da je u mladosti izgubio oba roditelja. Kad mu je bilo 18 godina, potaknut milošću za vrijeme čitanja Evanđelja kod sv. mise, odluči izvršavati Isusove savjete i želje o savršenom životu. Kao prvo razdijeli svoje imanje siromasima, uzme štap i pridruži se skupini samotnjaka u pustinji. Sav je njegov daljnji život bio u odricanju i duhovnom rastu.Dvadeset je godina živio u nekoj ruševini pored rijeke Nila i ondje se trsio da svlada sve negativne strasti i živi samo za Boga. Nije bila laka njegova borba protiv napasti. Demon ga je progonio u raznim obličjima – najčešće životinjskim, poput svinje ili pretvarajući se u vjernog psa.Stekavši veliku duhovnu snagu – mnoge je privlačio svojim vrlinama. Mnogi su dolazili k njemu da žive pod njegovim duhovnim vodstvom.U dobi od devedeset godina pomisli kako nijedan čovjek nije proveo toliko godina u samoći i odricanju. Nato čuje glas koji mu javi:“Ima jedan svetiji od tebe, to je Pavao Pustinjak koji služi Bogu u samoći i odricanju već devedeset godina.”Sveti Antun Pustinjak potraži sv. Pavla Pustinjaka. Na svom putu naiđe na mnoga čudovišta i mnoge kušnje. Kentaur i satir pokazaše put k Svecu, ali mu đavao podmetnu zlatnu šipku, kako bi ga odvratio od daljnjeg putovanja. No sveti Antun je znakom križa otjerao sve napasti, te napokon stigne do pećine gdje je šezdeset godina neki gavran svaki dan donosio polovinu kruha. Kada su dva starca počela zajednički živjeti u pustinji – gavran je počeo svaki dan donositi cijeli kruščić. Nakon smrti sv. Pavla Pustinjaka – sv. Antun se vratio u svoje ranije prebivalište gdje je ostao još 14 godina. Umro je u svojoj 105. godini. Njegov grob u pustinji otkriven je dvjesto godina kasnije, a posmrtni mu ostaci kao relikvije počivaju danas u Saint-Julienu kraj Arlesa u Francuskoj.Sveti Antun Pustinjak proglašen je svecem zaštitnikom od kožnih bolesti. Razlog tome je stvarna bolest od koje je svetac bolovao – herpes zoster virusne bolesti koja napada određene živce (najčešće među rebrima i u slabinama). Zato se ljudi utječu svetom Antunu u svim kožnim epidemijama.Sveti Antun Pustinjak prikazuje se kako nogama gazi snop plamenova, što pokazuje Antunovo viđenje pakla, vatre što je u njemu utrnula svaku požudu. Na njegovu lijevom ramenu se nalazi slovo Tau – T – znak Križa kao znak izabranika Božjeg.Svetac se često prikazuje s domaćim životinjama, napose svinjama. Slike su privukle vjernike da se tom Svecu uteknu za pomoć i zaštitu svoga blaga. Ovaj zimski Svetac poznat je također kao čudotvorac i pomoćnik za ono što je ljudima potrebno u svakodnevnom životu.Josip Antolović SJMolitva sv. Antunu PustinjakuBože, ti si dao svetom Antunu opatu da ti služi osobitim životom u pustinji. Udijeli nam, po njegovu zagovoru, da se odričemo sami sebe i tebe sveudilj i nadasve ljubimo. Po Kristu, Gospodinu našemu. Amen.Objavljeno: 17. siječnja 2025. Oznake: #Antunpustinjak #demoni 01. NKG – SLUŽBA ČITANJA – f – SV. ANTUN OPAT I. TJEDAN KROZ GODINU – PETAK 01. NKG – Sv. Antun, opatSLUŽBA ČITANJAANTUN, OPAT – Slavni otac kršćanskog monaštva, rođen je u Egiptu oko god. 250. Nakon smrti roditelja, razdijelio je dobra siromasima i povukao se u osamu pokorničkog života. Podržavao je kršćane koji su za Dioklecijana bili progonjeni i imao mnogo učenika. Umro je 356. god.R. Bože, u pomoć mi priteci. O. Gospodine, pohiti da mi pomogneš.Slava Ocu. Kako bijaše. Aleluja.Izostavlja kad neposredno prethodi Pozivnik.POZIVNIKHIMAN Tvog slugu, Bože, častimo što odano te štovao, I zahvalno ti pjevamo Svim srcem pjesmu ljubavi.Kao Kristov odan sljedbenik Bogatstva svijeta prolazna I varave mu radosti Rad tebe spreman ostavi.Siromah rado posta on, Da, ponizan i poslušan, Čistoćom tijela Kristu tvom Sa djevicama omili.Da tebi, Bože, ugodi, Sve misli, riječi, djela sva Na vatri užga ljubavi : Sav za te, Oče, izgori.Tim lancem stegnut ljubavi, Oslobođen za sveti boj , Kao slavni ratnik pobjednik Gle sretno prispje k zvijezdama.Tim potaknuti primjerom Mi sada naprijed kročimo, Da kroz svu vječnost slavimo Nebesko Trojstvo blaženo. Amen.PSALMODIJA1^ Antifona Gospodine, ustani mi u pomoćPSALAM 35 (34) Gospodin, spas u progonstvu Saberu se… i zaključe Isusa uhvatiti na prijevaru i ubiti (Mt 26, 3. 4).I (1 – 2. 3c. 9 – 12)Optuži, Gospodine, tužitelje moje * i napadni one koji mene napadaju! Stavi oklop, uzmi štit svoj * i ustani meni u pomoć!Zavitlaj kopljem i presretni progonitelje moje, * reci mojoj duši: “Ja sam tvoje spasenje.” Neka se smetu i postide koji život moj traže, * neka uzmaknu i neka se posrame koji mi propast snuju!Neka budu kao pljeva na vjetru * kad ih Anđeo Gospodnji potjera! Mračni i skliski bili im putovi * kad ih Anđeo Gospodnji bude gonio!Bez razloga napeše mi mrežu, * bez razloga grob duši mojoj iskopaše. Propast će ih stići iznenada, † u mrežu koju napeše sami će se uhvatiti, * past će u jamu što je iskopaše!A moja će duša klicati u Gospodinu, * radovat će se u spasenju njegovu. Sve će kosti moje govoriti: * Tko je, Gospodine, poput tebe koji ubogog spasavaš od jačega, * jadnika i siromaha od pljačkaša?Ustadoše svjedoci opaki: * pitaju me za ono što ne znam. Vraćaju mi zlo za dobro, * duša moja zapada u osamu.Slava Ocu i Sinu * i Duhu Svetomu. Kako bijaše na početku, † tako i sada i vazda * i u vijeke vjekova. Amen.1^ Antifona Gospodine, ustani mi u pomoć.2^ Antifona Zauzmi se za parnicu moju, obrani me, Gospodine, jer si moćan.II (13 – 16)A ja sam u bolesti njihovoj nosio kostrijet, † dušu svoju postom morio, * i molitva mi se u krilo vraćala.Kao za prijateljem, za bratom, obilažah tužan; * od žalosti se pogurih kao onaj što za majkom žali.A sada kad posrnuh ja, oni se raduju, † skupiše se protiv mene da udare iznenada, * i bez prestanka oni me razdiru. Ruglom na ruglo iskušavaju me * i zubima škripaju na mene.Slava Ocu i Sinu * i Duhu Svetomu. Kako bijaše na početku, † tako i sada i vazda * i u vijeke vjekova. Amen.2^ Antifona Zauzmi se za parnicu moju, obrani me, Gospodine, jer si moćan.3^ Antifona Moj će jezik po vas dan kazivati pravdu tvoju..III (17 – 19. 22 – 23. 27 – 28)Gospodine, dokle ćeš gledati? † Istrgni mi dušu nasrtajima njihovim, * otmi lavovima jedino dobro moje! Zahvalit ću ti u velikom zboru, * slaviti ću te među pukom brojnim.Neka se ne raduju nada mnom dušmani nepravedni, * neka ne namiguju očima oni koji me nizašto mrze! Jer oni ne misle o miru, * već spletke snuju protiv mirnih u zemlji. Razvaljuju svoja usta na me * i govore: “Vidjesmo očima svojim!”Ti sve vidiš, Gospodine! Nemoj šutjeti! * Gospode, od mene se ne udaljuj! Preni se, ustani da me obraniš, * Bože moj, Gospodine, vodi parnicu moju! Po svojoj me pravdi sudi, Gospodine, * Bože moj, nek se ne raduju nada mnom!Neka ne misle u srcu: “Ispunila nam se želja!” * Neka ne reknu: “Progutali smo ga!” Neka se postide i posrame svi zajedno * koji se nesreći mojoj raduju! Neka se odjenu stidom i sramotom * oni koji se podižu na me!Neka radosno kliču kojima je pravo moje na srcu * i neka svagda govore: “Velik je Gospodin! * Milo mu je spasenje sluge njegova!” A moj će jezik kazivati pravdu tvoju * i hvalu tebi navijeke.Slava Ocu i Sinu * i Duhu Svetomu. Kako bijaše na početku, † tako i sada i vazda * i u vijeke vjekova. Amen.3^ Antifona Moj će jezik po vas dan kazivati pravdu tvoju.R. Čuvaj, sine, riječi moje O. Čuvaj moje zapovijedi, i bit ćeš živ.PRVO ČITANJE: Iz Knjige Sirahove  (43, 15 – 33)Božja slava u prirodiSilom svojom drži oblake i mrvi ih u tuču. Kad se on pojavi, gore se tresu, i kad grom njegov zagrmi, zemlja se uvija od bola. Po zapovijedi njegovoj puše južnjak, vijavica sjeverna i vihor olujni. Kao ptice prši njegov snijeg i pada kao jato skakavaca. Oko se divi ljepoti njegove bjeline i duh se zanosi praminjanjem njegovim. Inje pada kao sol na zemlju, i kad se dobro smrzne, kostriješi se kao bodlje. Kad zapuše hladni sjever, tad se led uhvati na vodi, spusti se na svaku mirnu vodu, koja se onda njime kao oklopom odjene. On guta gore i sažiže pustinju i kao oganj proždire bilje. Ali oblaci ubrzo sve liječe i poslije žege osvježava rosa. Namišlju je svojom ukrotio bezdan i po njemu razastro otoke. Pomorci pričaju o pogibeljima morskim i divimo se onomu što od njih čujemo: jer i tu su neobična i prečudesna djela njegova, zvijeri svakojake i nemani morske. Njegovom pomoću sve se svršava dobro i sve se uređuje prema riječi njegovoj. Ma koliko da dodamo, ne bismo završili; jednom riječju: “On je sve!” Odakle smoći dovoljno snage da ga slavimo, jer on je velik, iznad svih je djela svojih. Strašan je Gospod i veoma velik, i čudesna je moć njegova. Veličajte Gospoda u hvalama svojim koliko god možete, a on će vas uvijek nadmašivati; napregnite svu svoju snagu kad ga veličate, ne popuštajte, pa ipak nikad do kraja nećete doći. Jer tko ga je ikad vidio pa da opriča? I tko ga može proslaviti onako kako on zaslužuje? Mnogo je otajstava većih nego su ova, jer smo vidjeli samo neka od djela njegovih! Sve je stvorio Gospod, koji je mudrost dao pobožnima.OTPJEV         Usp. Sir 43, 29. 30 R. Veličajte Gospoda u hvalama svojim, koliko god možete; * on će vas uvijek nadmašivati. O. Tko ga može proslaviti onako kako on zaslužuje? Strašan je Gospod i veoma velik, i čudesna je moć njegova. * On će vas.DRUGO ČITANJE: Iz Životopisa svetog Antuna, svetog Atanazija, biskupa Gl . 2 – 4: PG 26, 842  – 846Poziv svetog AntunaPoslije smrti roditelja, ostavši sam sa vrlo mladom sestricom, Antun je sa osamnaest ili dvadeset godina imao na brizi kuću i sestru. Još nije bilo od smrti roditelja prošlo ni šest mjeseci, kad je po običaju išao na službu u dom Gospodnji te je u sebi razmišljao radi čega su apostoli ostavivši sve pošli za Spasiteljem, i tko su bili oni u Djelima apostolskim što su prodavali svoj posjed a novac donosili pred noge apostolima da se dijeli potrebnima, te koja im je i kolika nada pohranjena na nebesima; premišljajući to u sebi, uđe u crkvu i dogodi se da se tada čitalo Evanđelje te začu Gospodina gdje kaže onom bogatašu: Ako želiš biti savršen, hajde prodaj sve što imaš i podaj siromasima, pa dođi i slijedi me, i imat ćeš blago na nebu. Antunu je bilo kao da mu je misao na svete poslana od Boga i kao da su se radi njega čitale one riječi, pa iziđe što je prije mogao iz doma Gospodnjeg te posjed što ga je imao od starijih (trista oranica, plodnih i vrlo lijepih) dade na dar suseljanima da ne bi bile na teret njemu i sestri. Prodavši i svu pokretninu, dobije od toga mnogo novaca i razdijeli ga siromasima, samo je malo zadržao za sestru. Kad je drugi put ušao u dom Gospodnji, začu u Evanđelju Gospodina gdje veli: Ne brinite se tjeskobno za sutrašnji dan. Nije više mogao izdržati da ostane ondje, iziđe pa i to razdijeli potrebnijima. Sestru povjeri poznatim i pouzdanim djevicama, predade je u Par ten on (djevojački dom) da se tamo odgoji, a sam se poslije toga pred svojom kućom posveti asketskom životu te je pazeći na sebe strpljivo provodio strog način življenja. Radio je svojim rukama, jer je bio čuo: Tko bude besposlen, neka ne jede, pa je od toga dijelom sebi kruh kupovao a dijelom ga dijelio siromasima. Često je molio, jer je naučio da valja na samu moliti bez prestanka: a kod čitanja je bio tako pozoran da mu ništa od napisanoga ne bi izmaklo već je sve pamtio, pa mu je odsele pamćenje služilo mjesto knjiga. A svi žitelji sela i čestiti ljudi s kojima se družio gledajući ga nazivali su ga Božjim prijateljem; pa su ga jedni voljeli kao sina, a drugi kao brata.OTPJEV usp. Mt 19, 21; Lk 14, 33 R. Hoćeš li biti savršen, idi prodaj što imaš i podaj siromasima pa ćeš imati blago na nebu !, * A onda dođi i idi za mnom ! O. Nijedan od vas koji se ne odreče svega što posjeduje, ne može biti moj učenik.* A onda dođi i idi za mnom !MOLITVA Bože, ti si dao svetom Antunu opatu da ti služi osobitim životom u pustinji. Udijeli nam, po njegovu zagovoru,da se odričemo sami sebe i tebe sveudilj i nada sve ljubimo. Po Gospodinu.O. Amen. Blagoslivljajmo Gospodina. O. Bogu hvala.Extraordinary Demonic ActivityExternal Physical Pain Caused by Satan: . As its name suggestions, demonic activity can manifest as physical pain. Fr. Amorth points to Saint John of the Cross, the Cure of Ars, and Padre Pio as historical examples of those who suffered physical beatings and torment by demons. However, since this “external form of persecution does not affect the soul,” it is understood that “there has never been the need for an exorcism, only for prayers.” . Demonic Possession: Father Gabriele Amorth on Spiritual Warfare . 6 Types of Extraordinary Demonic Activity . The Chief Exorcist of Rome, Fr. Gabriele Amorth categorizes demonic activity into ordinary and extraordinary. The former is simply temptation, while the latter is broken down into the six main categories. .“This occurs when Satan takes full possession of the body (not the soul); he speaks and acts without the knowledge or consent of the victim, who therefore is morally blameless.” In reference to the question, is there a stereotypical possession or referential model, Fr. Amorth advises the following, “to fix a set ‘model’ for demonic possession would be a serious mistake; the affliction runs the gamut of symptoms and severity.” .Diabolical Oppression: . “There is no possession, loss of consciousness, or involuntary action and word, ” just severe to mild events that plague the individual. Fr. Amorth points to Job’s severe afflictions and St. Paul’s thorn in his flesh (II Cor 12:7). Whereas “possession is rare,” Fr. Amorth reveals that he and his fellow exorcists “run into a great number of people who have been struck by the devil in their health, jobs, or relationships.” . Diabolic Obsession: . “Symptoms include sudden attacks, at times ongoing, of obsessive thoughts, sometimes even rationally absurd, but of such nature that the victim is unable to free himself.” Moreover, “the obsessed person lives in a perpetual state of prostration, desperation, and attempts at suicide. Almost always obsession influences dreams.” . Diabolic Infestation: . “Infestations affect houses, things, or animals.” . Diabolical Subjugation, or Dependence: . Fr. Amorth explains, “people fall into this form of evil when thy voluntarily submit to Satan. The two most common forms of dependence are the blood pact with the devil and the consecration to Satan.” . The Four Types of Curses . Fr. Amorth on the 4 Types of Curses: “Curse is a generic word. It is commonly defined as “harming others through demonic intervention.” This is an exact definition, but it does not explain the cause of the harm, hence the beginning of confusion. For instance, some believe that curse is synonymous with spell or witchcraft. In my opinion, spells and witchcraft are two different types of curses. I do not claim to give a comprehensive explanation, and I rely solely on my own experience when I defend the following forms of curses”. . Black Magic – Witchcraft – Satanic Rites that Culminate with Black Masses . Fr. Amorth address these practices as a group because they are analogous and they share the “common characteristic” of obtaining “a curse against a specific person through magic formulas or rituals – at times very complex – by invoking the demon, but without the use of particular objects.” . Whoever devotes himself to these practices becomes a servant of Satan through his own fault. . Scriptural passages prohibiting analogous practices: Dt18:10-12, Lev 19:31, Lev 20:27, Lev 19:26-31, Ex 22:18 . Curses . Curses invoke evil, and the origin of all evil is demonic. When curses are spoken with true perfidy, especially if there is a blood relationship between the one who casts them and the accursed, the outcome can be terrible. . Fr. Amorth stresses the fact that there are incredibly strong bonds between family members, and that curses that operate within these familial bonds or on a “special occasion,” e.g., a wedding, can have terrible consequences. . He gives several examples of cases he worked: a young man cursed by his own father at birth, parents cursing their daughter-in-law at their wedding, and man whose grandmother cursed a photograph of him, resulting in ill legs and multiple surgeries. . The Evil Eye . This consists in a spell cast by looking at someone. It does not come about, as many think, by believing that some individual cause bad luck by just looking at you; this is nonsense. The evil eye is a true spell; in other words, it presupposes the will to harm a predetermined person with the intervention of demons. . What is important is that the victim should not suspect everyone he meets, but forgive wholeheartedly whoever caused him evil, no matter who. I want to stress that, while I believe that the evil eye is possible, I cannot be positive that I have encountered it in my experience as an exorcist. . The Spell (aka Malefice or Hex) . A “spell” is the “most commonly used means to achieve evil.” In Latin, it is the male factus – meaning “Evil work.” It is generally accomplished by making some type of “evil” artifact. . The object has an almost symbolic value: it is a tangible sign of the will to harm, and it is offered to Satan to be imprinted with his evil powers. It is often said that Satan apes God; in this case we can use the sacraments as an analogy. The sacraments use tangible matter (for instance the water of baptism) as an instrument of grace. In the malefice matter is used as an instrument of harm. . Application of the Malefice: . Direct Way: “Consists of mixing the object that is used for the spell into the victim’s food or drink. As already mentioned, this is manufactured with the most diverse materials; it can be menstrual blood; bones of dead people; various burned powders, mostly black; animal parts – the heart seems to be the favorite; peculiar herbs, and so on.” . Indirect Way: “This consists in hexing objects that belong to the target (photographs, clothes, or other belongings) or figures that represent the accursed: dolls, puppets, animals, even real people of the same age and sex. This is called “transfer” material, and it is struck with the same ills that are intended for the victim.” . Other Attributes: . Binding Malefice: The transfer object is bound with various ribbons or animal hairs to produce a “binding” effect. Fr. Amorth recounts an event where a doll was bound to an umbilical cord with horse hair in an attempt to strike a pregnant woman’s child. . Hex Objects: Often times transfer objects for a hex appear inside pillows or mattresses. . I have found just about everything, from colored and tied ribbons to chunks of hair tightly knotted… animals – especially mice – or geometric shapes; and blood clots. I have seen chunks of wood or iron, twisted wire, and dolls full of piercing and marks and have witnessed the sudden appearance of very thick braids of children or women’s hair. Miraculously, sometimes these objects are not even visible until holy water is sprinkled upon the opened pillow. . Father Gabriele Amorth Recommended Prayers of Deliverance . FATHER GABRIELE AMORTH SPIRITUAL WARFARE PRAYERS . And render unto our neighbors SEVENFOLD into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached Thee, O Lord. (Ps 79:12) . Fr. Gabriele Amorth The Vatican’s Chief Exorcist in Rome FOR Decades Exorcism Prayers . Prayers of Deliverance . Prayer Against Malefice from the Greek Ritual . Kyrie eleison. God, our Lord, King of ages, All-powerful and All-mighty, Thou Who madest everything and Who transformeth everything simply by Thy will. Thou Who in Babylon didst change into dew the flames of the ‘seven-times hotter’ furnace and didst protect and save the three holy children. Thou art the doctor and the physician of our soul. Thou art the salvation of those who turn to Thee. We beseech Thee to make powerless, banish, and drive out every diabolic power, presence, and machination; every evil influence, malefice, or evil eye and all evil actions aimed against Thy servant [name of person/s]. Where there is envy and malice, give us an abundance of goodness, endurance, victory, and charity. O Lord, Thou Who lovest man, we beg Thee to reach out Thy powerful hands and Thy most high and mighty arms and send the angel of peace over us, to protect us, body and soul. May he keep at bay and vanquish every evil power, every poison or malice invoked against us by corrupt and envious people. Then, under the protection of Thy authority may we sing, in gratitude, ‘The Lord is my salvation; whom should I fear? I will not fear evil because Thou art with me, my God, my strength, my powerful Lord, Lord of peace, Father of all ages.” . Yes, Lord our God, be merciful to us, Thy image, and save Thy servant [name of person/s] from every threat or harm from the evil one, and protect him/her by raising him/her above all evil. We ask Thee this through the intercession of our Most Blessed, glorious Lady, Mary ever Virgin, Mother of God, of the most splendid archangels and all Thy saints. Amen! . Anima Christi . Soul of Christ, sanctify me; Body of Christ, save me; Blood of Christ, inebriate me; Water from the side of Christ, wash me; Passion of Christ, strengthen me; O good Jesus, hear me; within Thy wounds, hide me; let me never be separated from Thee; from the evil one, deliver me; at the hour of my death, call me and bid me come to Thee, that with Thy saints, I may praise Thee forever and ever. Amen. . Prayer Against Every Evil . Spirit of our God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Most Holy Trinity, Immaculate Virgin Mary, angels, archangels, and saints of heaven, descend upon me. Please purify me, Lord, mold me, fill me with Thyself, use me. . Banish all the forces of evil from me, destroy them, vanquish them, so that I can be healthy and do good deeds. . Banish from me all spells, witchcraft, black magic, malefice, ties, maledictions, and the evil eye; diabolic infestations, oppressions, possessions; all that is evil and sinful, jealously, perfidy, envy; physical, psychological, moral, spiritual, diabolical aliments. . Burn all these evils in hell, that they may never again touch me or any other creature in the entire world. . I command and bid all the power who molest me – by the power of God all powerful, in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior, through the intercession of the Immaculate Virgin Mary – to leave me forever, and to be consigned into the everlasting hell, where they will be bound by Saint Michael the archangel, Saint Gabriel, Saint Raphael, our guardian angels, and where they will be crushed under the heel of the Immaculate Virgin Mary. Amen. . Prayer for Inner Healing . Lord Jesus, Thou camest to heal our wounded and troubled hearts. I beg Thee to heal the torments that cause anxiety in my heart; I beg Thee, in a particular way, to heal all who are the cause of sin. I beg Thee to come into my life and heal me of the psychological harms that struck me in my early years and from the injuries that they caused through my life. . Lord Jesus, Thou knowest my burdens. I lay them all on Thy Good Shepherd’s Heart. I beseech Thee – by the merits of the great, open wound in Thy heart-to heal the small wounds that are in mine. Heal the pain of my memories, so that nothing that has happened to me will cause me to remain in pain and anguish, filled with anxiety. . Heal, O Lord, all those wounds that have been the cause of all the evil that is rooted in my life. I want to forgive all those who have offended me. Look to those inner sores that make me unable to forgive. Thou Who camest to forgive the afflicted of heart, please, heal my own heart. . Heal, my Lord Jesus, those intimate wounds that cause me physical illness. I offer Thee my heart. Accept it, Lord, purify it and give me the sentiments of Thy Divine Heart. Help me to be meek and humble. . Heal me, O Lord, from the pain caused by the death of my loved ones, which is oppressing me. Grant me to regain peace and joy in the knowledge that Thou art the Resurrection and the Life. Make me an authentic witness to Thy Resurrection, Thy victory over sin and death, Thy living presence among us. Amen. . Prayer for Deliverance . My Lord, Thou art all powerful, Thou art God, Thou art Father. We beg Thee through the intercession and help of the archangels Michael, Raphael and Gabriel, for the deliverance of our brothers and sisters who are enslaved by the evil one. All saints of Heaven, come to our aid. . From anxiety, sadness and obsessions, we beg Thee. Free us, O Lord. From hatred, fornication, envy, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. From thoughts of jealousy, rage, and death, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. From every thought of suicide and abortion, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. From every form of sinful sexuality, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. From every division in our family, and every harmful friendship, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. From every sort of spell, malefic, witchcraft, and every form of the occult, we beg Thee, Free us, O Lord. . Lord, Thou Who saidst, “I leave you peace, My peace I give you,” grant that, through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, we may be liberated from every evil spell and enjoy Thy peace always. In the name of Christ, our Lord. Amen. . PRAYER FOR PROTECTION AGAINST DEMONS (Saint John Bosco, C. 1880) . O Mary, powerful Virgin, Thou art the mighty and glorious Protector of the Church. Thou art the Marvelous Help of Christians. Thou art Terrible as an Army set in Battle Array. Thou alone hast destroyed every heresy in the entire Church. In the midst of my anguish, my struggles and my distress, Defend me from the power of the enemy, And at the hour of my death, Receive my soul into Paradise. Amen . PLEADING THE BLOOD OF JESUS . The Apocalypse Of Saint John (Revelation) Chapter 12:11 And they overcame him by the Blood of the Lamb, and by the Word of the testimony, and they loved not their lives unto death. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on my spouse and children. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on my family, home and property. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on my Church and on all Church property. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on my mind . I plead the Blood of Jesus on every thought in my mind. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on my body. . I plead the Blood of Jesus on every evil spirit attacking my mind and body. . Saint Michael Prayer . Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray. And do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Hosts, by the power of God, thrust into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. . THE BRIEF OF ST ANTHONY . A woman who was troubled by spiritual forces stopped at a chapel to pray before a statue of St. Anthony. She fell asleep, and saw him whether in a dream or vision. Upon waking, she found a letter (brief) with words to put evil forces to flight. . The letter (brief) reads: Latin: Ecce crucem domini, fugite, partes adversae, vicit leo de tribu juda, radix david. Alleluia. . English: . Behold the cross of the Lord! Begone hostile enemies! The lion of Juda, the offspring of David has triumphed! Alleluia! . Saint Teresa of Avila on the Power of Holy Water . I was once in an oratory, when Satan, in an abominable shape, appeared on my left hand. I looked at his mouth in particular, because he spoke, and it was horrible. A huge flame seemed to issue out of his body, perfectly bright, without any shadow. He spoke in a fearful way, and said to me that, though I had escaped out of his hands, he would yet lay hold of me again. I was in great terror, made the sign of the cross as well as I could, and then the form vanished–but it reappeared instantly. This occurred twice. I did not know what to do; there was some holy water at hand; I took some, and threw it in the direction of the figure, and then Satan never returned. I know by frequent experience that there is nothing which puts the devils to flight like holy water. They run away before the sign of the cross also, but they return immediately: great, then, must be the power of holy water.

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Kardinal NEMET zatajio STEPINCA! Dokle će KATOLICI TRPJETI? Nude EUTANAZ...

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Our Lady of Zeitoun: Greatest Appearance in History - Explaining the GOD BLESS YOU SISTER IN CHRISTUS ! While the message of Heaven (given through Mary) was greater at Fatima, Lourdes, LaSalette, Akita, etc., perhaps Zeitoun is the most impressive appearance of Mary in Church history. Fr. Chris Alar explains why. https://www.youtube.com/livehttps://www.youtube.com/live/zaagPVyxhqY?si=nEPQHewcYmAzABhc/zaagPVyxhqY?si=ybNYKfr6CxN4hMkAhttps://x.com/Angelina_Lina8/status/1877989073035391433 Angelina Serbska  @Angelina_Lina8 On April 2, 1968, Muslim workers at a bus depot located near the church saw a semi-transparent female figure standing on the roof of the church, emanating a glow. People saw the Virgin Mary on the roof. People kept coming to the church. They began bringing the sick, and miraculous healings from cancer and tuberculosis began to occur. News of the apparitions spread very quickly, causing a wave of intense enthusiasm among an incredible multitude of Christians, Muslims, Jews, and even non-believers. The crowds that gathered at night reached 250,000 people. Each appearance of the Virgin Mary was accompanied by deafening cries and the weeping of huge numbers of people: "We believe in You, Holy Mary! We bear witness to You, Holy Mary!" Photographer Wagih Riek Matta was the first to successfully photograph the apparition. "The appearance," he says, "was so sharp that it blinded my eyes. I was as if struck by an electric shock. I clicked the camera several times and suddenly found that my injured hand was healed." https://x.com/Angelina_Lina8/status/1877989073035391433Show lessHere is another apparition video in el warak Egypt December 10,2009 https://youtu.be/_zDY_dAG4FA https://www.youtube.com/live/zaagPVyxhqY?si=s-1Ze916r8luJgyj"DRA MIG TILL DIG" Bön om inre helande "Förnya min tillförsikt och styrka att modigt möta denna världens svårigheter, ty jag vet att den himmelske Faderns kärlek skall lyfta upp mig om jag snubblar och faller..." Bitno.net Foto: Shutterstock Foto: Shutterstock Jesus, kom in i mitt hjärta och befria mig från de sorgliga minnena som tyngde mig. Du känner mig bättre än jag känner mig själv. Det är därför jag ber er att föra in er kärlek i varje hörn av mitt hjärta. Varhelst du upptäcker ett sårat barn i mig, rör vid mig varsamt, hela mig och gör mig fri. Gå igenom mitt liv hela vägen till det ögonblick då jag blev till och släpp ut mitt blod och andliga arv som kunde ha påverkat det ögonblicket negativt. Välsigna min början av utveckling under min mors hjärta och ta bort allt som har sårat mig under den här tiden. Kompensera för skillnaden mellan den kärlek jag behövde och den jag fick. Jesus, omge min tidiga barndom med Ditt ljus och hela minnena som höll mig tillbaka. Om jag behövde mer av en mors kärlek, sänd då din Moder Maria för att se vad jag saknar. Om jag behövde mer av min fars kärlek och trygghet, visa mig att jag var älskad av dig på ett annat sätt, dra mig nära dig så att jag kan känna skyddet av dina starka händer. Förnya mitt självförtroende och min styrka att modigt möta svårigheter i den här världen, för jag vet att den himmelske Faderns kärlek kommer att lyfta upp mig om jag snubblar och faller. Punkt slut. Fader vår... Bönen är hämtad från bönboken "Helgonens förbön", som du kan lära dig mer om här. https://x.com/Angelina_Lina8/status/1877989073035391433Läsningar: 1 Joh 5:5–13; Ps 147:12–15, 19–20; Luk 5:12–16. Kära bröder och systrar På epifania, Herrens uppenbarelses högtid i måndags hörde vi om hur Jesus uppenbarades för de vise männen, som representerar jordens alla folk. På Herrens dop imorgon kommer vi få höra om hur Jesus uppenbarade sig för folket i samband med att han inledde sin offentliga verksamhet. På vardagarna däremellan får vi i evangeliet i mässan höra om andra sätt som Jesus uppenbarade sig på. I onsdags lästes evangeliet om hur Jesus mättade 5000 män plus kvinnor och barn med fem bröd och två fiskar, och dagen därpå om hur han gick på vattnet. I dagens evangelium hörde vi om hur Jesus botade en spetälsk. Detta var ett av de första miraklerna som Jesus utförde. Alla Jesu mirakler utgör uppenbarelser av vem han är, precis som Nikodemos konstaterar i sitt samtal med Jesus: ”Ingen kan göra sådana tecken som du utan att Gud är med honom.” (Joh 3:2). Men att Jesus botar en spetälsk har ytterligare symbolisk betydelse. Spetälska eller lepra är en mycket smittsam och dödlig hudsjukdom, som var i princip obotlig ända tills antibiotikan uppfanns i början av 1900-talet. På Jesu tid betraktades de som var sjuka i spetälska som rituellt orena, och för att de inte skulle smitta ner andra så fick de leva helt separerade från resten av samhället. Det var med andra ord fruktansvärt att smittas av spetälska. Hela ens liv blev förstört. Men hur hemskt det än var att smittas av spetälska, så är det ändå ingenting mot en annan sorts sjukdom som plågat människosläktet genom alla tider, nämligen synden. Synden leder inte bara till den fysiska döden, utan till den eviga döden. Men när Jesus botar sjukdomar, då är det också ett tecken på att han även har makt att bota syndens sjukdom. Innan Jesus botar en lam man längre fram i evangeliet, så säger han till honom att ”dina synder är förlåtna” (Matt 9:2). Imorgon kommer vi som sagt att fira Herrens dop. Johannes Döparens dop som Jesus döptes med var en förebild för det dop som Jesus själv skulle instifta och som vi som kristna är döpta med. Dopets vatten symboliserar på samma gång att vi dör, begravs och uppstår tillsammans med Kristus, samt att vi tvättas rena från synden. Dopet ger oss alltså förlåtelse för alla synder, både ursynden som alla människor föds med och alla synder som man kan ha begått sedan dess. Och om vi skulle förlora dopets nåd genom att frivilligt begå en allvarlig synd så kan vi alltid få tillbaka den genom att gå till bikt och ta emot försoningens sakrament. Utåt sett ser man ingen skillnad på en person före och efter dopet eller före och efter man har biktat sig. Men när Jesus sade till den spetälske i dagens evangelium ”Bli ren!”, då försvann spetälskan genast. (Luk 5:13) Detta visar att Jesus även har makt att förlåta våra synder. Låt oss tacka Gud för nåden att vi har tvättats rena från synden genom dopet och för att vi alltid kan tvätta vår vita dopdräkt ren igen genom att ta emot försoningens sakrament, och låt oss regelbundet utnyttja denna möjlighet så att syndens spetälska aldrig får fäste i våra hjärtan. Amen. Christ as our ONLY Lord and Savior is really no Church at all. Bishop Eleganti: The Bride Who is No Longer in Love with Christ https://complicitclergy.com/2025/01/10/bishop-eleganti-the-bride-who-is-no-longer-in-love-with-christ/……"The family that prays together stays together" "A world at prayer is a world at peace." — Fr. Patrick Peyton

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"If we hate anyone we can’t claim to love God." | Homily - Thursday, Jan...  THE SACRED HEARTPRAYER OF ST. GERTRUDE TO THE SACRED HEART This prayer is thought to be originally prayed by St. Gertrude and adapted by St. Alphonse Liguori; he is considered the author because of its final formulation.  O Sacred Heart of Jesus, living and life giving fountain of eternal life, infinite treasury of the Divinity, and glowing furnace of love, Thou art my refuge and my sanctuary. O adorable and glorious Savior, consume my heart with that burning fire that ever inflames Thy Heart.Pour down on my souls those graces that flow from Thy love. Let my heart be so united with Thine, that our wills may be one, and mine may in all things be conformed to Thine. May Thy will be the rule of both my desires and my actions.ACT OF LOVE TO THE SACRED HEARTHow great, O my Jesus, is the extent of Thine excessive charity! Thou hast prepared for me, of Thy most precious Body and Blood, a divine banquet, where Thou givest me Thyself without reserve. What hath urged Thee  to this excess of love? Nothing but Thine own most loving Heart.O adorable Heart of my Jesus, furnace of Divine Love, receive my soul into the wound of Thy most Sacred Passion, that in this school of charity I may learn to make a return of love to that God Who hast given me such wonderful proofs of His love.DEVOUT AFFECTIONS ON THE PASSION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRISTIt was revealed to St. Gertrude that reading and meditating on the Passion are far more useful and efficacious than all other spiritual exercises. As those who handle flour cannot avoid contracting some of the flour's powdery substance, so no one, however imperfect his devotion may be, can occupy his mind with the Passion of Our Lord without receiving some benefit therefrom. And, however cold and lukewarm our devotion, Our Lord will look upon us with greater long-suffering and mercy if we never omit the memory of His Passion.FIRST PRAYERO Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal sweetness and jubilee of those who love Thee, remember all the presentiment of grief Thou didst endure from the moment of Thy conception, and especially at Thy entrance into Thy Passion, when Thou didst say: My soul is sorrowful even unto death; and when, by reason of Thy overwhelming dread and anguish and grief, Thou didst sweat, as it were, drops of Blood trickling down upon the ground. Remember all the bitterness of Thy sorrow when Thou wast seized upon by the Jews, accused by false witnesses, condemned by three judges, buffeted and smitten, spit upon, scourged, and crowned with thorns. O sweetest Jesus, I implore Thee, by all the sorrows and insults Thou didst endure, have mercy on me, a sinner.SECOND PRAYERO Jesus, paradise of the delights of God, remember now all the dread and sorrow Thou didst endure when Pilate pronounced on Thee sentence of death; when the godless soldiers laid the heavy Cross on Thy shoulders, and fastened Thee thereon with rude and blunted nails, cruelly stretching Thy sacred limbs so that all Thy bones could be numbered: I beseech Thee, vouchsafe to pronounce a merciful sentence on me in the day of judgment, and deliver me from all punishment. Amen.THIRD PRAYERO Jesus, Heavenly Physician, remember now the languor and the pain Thou didst endure when lifted upon the Cross, when all Thy bones were out of joint, so that no sorrow was like to Thy sorrow, because, from the sole of Thy foot to the top of Thy head, there was no soundness in Thee; when, notwithstanding, Thou didst put away the feeling of all Thine own griefs, and pray to Thy Father for Thine enemies, saying: Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. By this, Thy charity and Thy mercy, grant that the dignity and worth of Thy Passion may be the entire remission of all my sins. Amen.FOURTH PRAYERO Jesus, mirror of the eternal splendor, remember now that sadness which filled Thy Heart when Thou didst behold in the mirror of Thy Divinity the reprobation of the wicked and the multitude of the lost; and by the depth of the compassion Thou didst show to the robber on the cross, saying: This day thou shalt be with Me in Paradise, I beseech Thee, O compassionate Jesus, show me Thy mercy in the hour of my death. Amen.FIFTH PRAYERO Jesus, King most beloved, remember now the mournful desolation of Thy Heart, when Thou, forsaken by all, wert mocked as Thou didst hang on the Cross; when Thou didst find none to comfort Thee but Thy beloved Mother, who stood by Thy Cross to the last, and whom Thou didst commend to Thy disciple, saying: Woman, behold thy son, and to the disciple: Behold thy Mother. I beseech Thee, O compassionate Jesus, by that sword of anguish which then pierced her Heart, do Thou condole with me and console me in all my tribulations. Amen.SIXTH PRAYERO Jesus, inexhaustible fountain of pity, remember now that bitterness which Thou didst endure when, Thy strength being exhausted and Thy sacred Body dried up, Thou didst feel that burning thirst, and hadst not one drop of water to cool Thy parched tongue, but only vinegar upon hyssop; I beseech Thee that Thou wouldst extinguish in me the thirst of carnal concupiscence and worldly delights. Amen.SEVENTH PRAYERO Jesus, mighty King, remember now that when Thou wast plunged into the bitter waters of Thy Passion until they closed over Thy head, Thou wast forsaken not only by men, but by Thy Father also, and didst cry out with a loud voice, saying: My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? By this Thine anguish and dereliction, I beseech Thee, forsake me not in my last agony. Amen.EIGHTH PRAYERO Jesus, strong Lion of the tribe of Juda, remember now the sorrow and the woe Thou didst endure, when all the forces of Thy Heart and of Thy Flesh failed Thee utterly, and Thou didst bow Thy Head and cry: It is consummated. By this Thine anguish and Thy woe, have mercy on me at the end of my life, when my soul shall be troubled, and my spirit disquieted within me. Amen.NINTH PRAYERO Jesus, splendor of the Father's glory and figure of His substance, remember now that earnest commendation with which Thou didst commend Thy Spirit to the Father, saying: Father, into Thy hands I commend My Spirit! and when, Thy most sacred Body being torn and Thy Heart broken, and all the bowels of Thy compassion laid bare for our Redemption, Thou didst give up Thy Spirit: I beseech Thee, by all that love which moved Thee, the Life of all that live, to submit to death, that Thou wouldst mortify and kill in my soul whatever is displeasing to Thee. Amen.TENTH PRAYERO Jesus, true and fruitful Vine, remember now the lavish, the excessive profusion wherewith Thou didst shed Thy Precious Blood, when on the Cross Thou didst tread the winepress alone, and wast crushed a s a cluster of ripe grapes; when Thou didst give us water and Blood from Thy pierced Side, so that not one drop remained in Thy Heart. Then wast Thou hung up as a bundle of myrrh, and Thy tender Flesh grew pale, and Thy moisture was all dried up within Thee, and the marrow of Thy bones consumed. By this Thy most bitter Passion, and by the shedding of Thy most Precious Blood, I beseech Thee, O most loving Jesus, wash my soul at the hour of my death with the water which flowed from Thy Sacred Side, and adorn it with comeliness in the Precious Blood of Thy sweetest heart, and render it acceptable in Thy sight in the fragrant odor of Thy Divine love. Amen.OBLATIONAccept, O compassionate Jesus, this my prayer with that exceeding love wherewith Thou didst endure a bitter Death, and didst offer it , together with all the fruit of Thy most sacred Humanity, to God the Father on the day of Thine Ascension; and by the depth of those Wounds which scarred Thy Flesh and pierced Thy hands and feet and Heart, I beseech Thee, raise me up, who am steeped and sunk in sin, and render me well-pleasing to Thee in all things. Amen.GUARDIAN ANGELGUARDIAN ANGEL PRAYERO MOST holy Angel of God, appointed by God to my Guardian, I give thee thanks for all the benefits which thou hast ever bestowed on me in body and soul. I praise and glorify thee that thou condescended to assist me with such patient fidelity, and to defend me against all the assaults of my enemy. Blessed be the hour in which thou were assigned me for my Guardian, my defender and my patron. In acknowledgment and return for all thy loving ministries to me, I offer thee the infinitely precious and noble Heart of Jesus, and firmly purpose to obey thee henceforward, and most faithfully to serve my God. Amen.SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT CHAPLETOur Lord told St. Gertrude the Great that the following prayer would release 1,000 Souls from Purgatory each time it is said. The prayer was later extended to include living sinners as well."ETERNAL FATHER, I OFFER THEE THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF THY DIVINE SON, JESUS, IN UNION WITH THE MASSES SAID THROUGHOUT THE WORLD TODAY, FOR ALL THE HOLY SOULS IN PURGATORY, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen."[In one Rosary or chaplet this prayer is said 50 times!]Say this chaplet using regular Rosary beads. Begin with the Apostles' Creed, one Our Father, three Hail Marys and a Glory Be to the Father just as with Our Lady's Rosary.On the five decades, say the above Prayer for the Holy Souls on each Hail Mary bead and the Our Father on each separator bead between the decades.PRAYER TO FREE 1000 SOULS FROM PURGATORY: PROMISE PRAYER A Prayer Which Would Release 1,000 Souls From Purgatory Each Time It Is Said:Our Lord told St. Gertrude the Great that the following prayer would release 1,000 Souls from Purgatory each time it is said. The prayer was later extended to include living sinners as well."ETERNAL FATHER, I OFFER THEE THE MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD OF THY DIVINE SON, JESUS, IN UNION WITH THE MASSES SAID THROUGHOUT THE WORLD TODAY, FOR ALL THE HOLY SOULS IN PURGATORY, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen."APPROVAL AND RECOMMENDATION: M. Cardinal Pahiarca at Lisbon, Portugal, March 4, 1936THE TWO FLOWER PRAYERS OF ST. GERTRUDEHAIL, White Lily, of the ever-peaceful and glorious Trinity! Hail, Vermilion Rose, the delight of Heaven, of whom the King of Heaven was born and by whose milk He was nourished! Do thou feed our souls with the effusions of your divine influences.Hail! Vivifying Gem of Divine Nobility! Hail, Most Loving Jesus, Unfading Flower of Human Dignity! Thou art my Sovereign and only Good.A MOST TENDER AND EFFICACIOUS OFFERING TO THE BLESSED VIRGINO Sweetest Jesus, I beseech Thee, by the love which caused Thee to take flesh in the bosom of this most pure Virgin, that Thou wouldst supply for our defects in the service and honor of this most benign Mother who is ever ready to assist us, with maternal tenderness, in all our necessities. Offer to Thy beloved Mother, O amiable Jesus, the superabundant beatitude of Thy sweetest Heart. Show her Thy Divine predilection which chose her from all eternity, above all creatures, to be Thy Mother, adorning her with every grace and virtue. Remind her of all the tenderness which Thou didst manifest to her on earth, when she carried Thee on her bosom and nourished Thee with her milk. Recall to her Thy filial obedience to her in all things, and especially Thy care at the hour of Thy death, when Thou didst forget Thine own anguish to solace hers, and didst provide her with a faithful guardian. Remind her, also, of the joys and glory of her Assumption, when Thou didst exalt her above all the choirs of Angels and constitute her Queen of Heaven and earth. O good Jesus, make Thy Mother propitious to us, that she may be our advocate and protectress in life and in death. Amen.THANKSGIVING FOR GRACES BESTOWED ON ST. GERTRUDETo implore favors through her merits: God revealed to St. Gertrude that those who should thank him for the graces bestowed upon her would participate in her merits, and would obtain their petition provided it were for their eternal welfare.O most sweet Lord Jesus Christ, I praise, extol and bless Thee, in union with that Heavenly praise which the Divine Persons of the Most Holy trinity mutually render to Each other, and which thence flows down upon Thy Sacred Humanity, upon the Blessed Virgin Mary and upon all the Angels and Saints. And I give Thee thanks for all the graces Thou didst lavish upon Thy beloved spouse, St. Gertrude. I thank Thee especially for that ineffable love wherewith Thou didst pre-elect her from all eternity, didst enrich her so highly, didst draw her so sweetly to Thyself by the strongest bonds of love, didst unite her so blissfully to Thyself, dwell with such delight in her heart, and crown her life with so blessed an end. I recall to Thee now, O most compassionate Jesus, the promise Thou didst make to Thy beloved spouse, that Thou wouldst most assuredly grant the prayers of all who come to Thee through her merits and intercession, in all matters concerning their salvation. I beseech Thee, by Thy most tender love, grant me the grace . . . [mention it] which I confidently expect. Amen.PRAYER BEFORE WORKO Lord Jesus Christ, in union with Thy most perfect actions I commend to Thee this my work, to be directed according to Thy adorable will, for the salvation of all mankind. Amen.ACTS OF PRAISE IN HONOR THE MOST BLESSED TRINITYI venerate and glorify Thee, O Most Blessed Trinity, in union with that ineffable glory with which God the Father, in His omnipotence, honors the Son and the Holy Spirit forever.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.I magnify and bless Thee, O Most Blessed Trinity, in union with that most reverent glory with which God the Son in His unsearchable wisdom, glorifies the Father and the Holy Spirit  forever.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.I adore and extol Thee, O Most Blessed Trinity in union with that most adequate and befitting glory with which the Holy Spirit, in His unsearchable goodness, extols the Father and the Son forever.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.OFFERING OF OUR SAVIOR'S LIFE TO THE ETERNAL FATHERO most loving Father, in atonement and satisfaction for all my sins, I offer Thee the whole Passion of Thy most beloved Son, from the plaintive wail He uttered when laid upon the straw in the manger, through all the helplessness of His infancy, the privations of His boyhood, the adversities of His youth, the sufferings of His manhood, until that hour when He bowed His head upon the Cross and with a loud cry gave up His Spirit. And, in atonement and satisfaction for all my negligences, I offer Thee, O most loving Father, the most holy life and conversation of Thy Son, most perfect in His every thought, word, and action, from the hour when he came down from His lofty throne to the Virgin's womb, and thence came forth into our dreary wilderness, to the hour when He presented to Thy fatherly regard the glory of His conquering flesh. Amen.EFFICACIOUS PRAYER TO ST. GERTRUDEI praise and greet thee, O most blessed virgin, Gertrude, through the sweetest Heart of Jesus, thy Spouse; and through this Heart I magnify the goodness and condescension of the ever-adorable Trinity for all the grace which has ever flowed forth from that unfathomable abyss for thy salvation; beseeching thee by that mutual love which united thy pure heart to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, that thou wouldst look on me as commended to thy care in life and in death, and be my faithful advocate with God. Amen.SALUTATION OF THE WOUNDS OF JESUSWhen St. Gertrude had recited this prayer 5,466 times, in honor of all the Wounds of our Lord Jesus, He appeared to her in vision, having on each Wound a rose flashing with a golden splendor, and greeted her tenderly, saying: "Behold, I will appear to thee, in this refulgent form at the hour of thy death, and I will cover all thy sins, and adorn thee with a glory, like that with which thou hast adorned My Wounds by thy salutations; and all who use this or any similar devotion shall receive the like favor." In order to make up this number, and become a partaker of this promise of Christ, you may say the following prayer five times a day for three years, adding the oblation, which our Lord directed to Saint Mechtilde to repeat after each division of five.Glory be to Thee, most gracious, sweetest, most benign, sovereign, transcending, effulgent, and ever peaceful Trinity, for the roseate Wounds of Jesus Christ, my chosen and only love.OBLATION(To be said alter each five repetitions.) O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, accept this prayer, with that surpassing love, with which Thou didst endure all the Wounds of Thy most Holy Body. Have mercy on me, and on all sinners, and on all the Faithful, living and departed. Grant them grace and mercy, remission of sins and everlasting life. Amen.PRAYER TO JESUS(Our Lord promised St. Gertrude, that if anyone should praise God for her, and give Him thanks for the love wherewith He had chosen her from eternity, He would assuredly grant him whatever he asked, provided that it tended to his salvation.)O most compassionate Jesus, Giver of all good and all grace, may all that are in the round world, and the depth of the sea and the compass of Heaven, give thanks to Thee, and praise Thee with that infinite, everlasting, and unchanging praise, which floweth forth from Thee, and floweth back unceasingly upon Thee! again, for the exceeding love wherewith Thou didst shed into the heart and soul of Thy beloved Spouse Gertrude, so great a flood of graces, and of loving kindnesses, and didst reveal to the world the mysteries of Thy tender compassion through her, Thine Own chosen and peculiar instrument. Wherefore, from my inmost heart, I render Thee utmost thanks; and I beseech Thee, on behalf of all in Heaven, on earth or in Purgatory, through that ineffable Divine love, wherewith Thou didst from all eternity, elect to special grace Thy loving and most faithful servant, and didst in Thine own appointed time, draw her so sweetly to Thee, and unite her so intimately to Thyself, and dwell with such delight in her heart, and crown her life with an end so blessed, that Thou wouldst condescend graciously to hear and answer my petition. I recall to Thy mind now, O most Compassionate Jesus, the promise Thou didst make to Thy beloved spouse, in Thy great and superabounding goodness, that Thou wouldst most assuredly grant the prayers; of all who come to Thee, through her merits and intercession, in all matters concerning their salvation, binding Thyself, moreover, if Thou didst not at once grant their petition, to bestow on them threefold in Thine Own good time, from the omnipotence, the wisdom, and the tender kindness, of the Adorable Trinity. Calling thus to Thy mind, this, Thy faithful promise, I beseech Thee, leave me not desolate, but bestow on me the salutary effect of my petition. Amen.Läsningar: 1 Joh 4:19 – 5:4; Ps 72:2, 14-15bc, 17; Luk 4:14–22a.Kära bröder och systrarPå vardagarna under jultiden läses som första läsning i mässan ur Johannes första brev. Det genomgående temat för detta brev är att ”Gud är kärlek” (1 Joh 4:8, 16). Det är inte bara så att kärleken skulle vara det vackraste som Gud har skapat och att Gud är oändligt kärleksfull. Nej, kärleken är oskapad och Gud är själva kärleken i sig själv, eftersom det hör till hans väsen att vara en evig kärleksgemenskap mellan Fadern och Sonen i den Helige Ande. Och under julen firar vi och tackar för att Gud har uppenbarat denna kärlek för oss genom att bli människa i Jesus Kristus. I det första kapitlet av sitt brev skriver aposteln Johannes att ”Det vi har sett och hört förkunnar vi för er, för att också ni skall vara med i vår gemenskap, som är en gemenskap med Fadern och hans son Jesus Kristus.” (1 Joh 1:3). Och i dagens kommunionsantifon, hämtad ur brevets fjärde kapitel, skriver han: ”Så uppenbarades Guds kärlek hos oss: han sände sin ende son till världen för att vi skulle få liv genom honom.” (1 Joh 4:9).Den därpå följande versen, som lästes i mässan i onsdags, lyder: ”Detta är kärleken: inte att vi har älskat Gud utan att han har älskat oss och sänt sin son som försoningsoffer för våra synder.” (1 Joh 4:10). Detta är mycket viktigt att betona. Det är alltid Gud som har initiativet. Det är han som har skapat oss och som har älskat oss först. I läsningen i mässan i går hörde vi att ”vi har lärt känna den kärlek som Gud har till oss och tror på den.” (1 Joh 4:16). Det första som vi måste göra som kristna är att tro på Guds kärlek, och sedan öppna oss för att ta emot den. Vi får inte ha en bild av Gud som en vredgad Gud, som vi till att börja med skulle behöva blidka genom att på egen hand göra en massa uppoffringar och leva perfekta liv. Detta är omöjligt för oss att göra i vårt syndiga tillstånd utan Guds nåd, och utan att först ha erfarit och tagit emot Guds kärlek. I läsningen igår hörde vi också att ”Rädsla finns inte i kärleken, utan den fullkomliga kärleken fördriver rädslan, ty rädsla hör samman med straff, och den som är rädd har inte nått kärlekens fullhet.” (1 Joh 4:18). Att sträva efter att göra Guds vilja av rädsla för att straffas av honom kan i bästa fall vara en bra början, ty ”Herrens fruktan är vishetens begynnelse”, som det sägs i psalm 111 (v. 10). Men Gud har skapat oss av kärlek och för kärlek. Han vill att vi ska älska honom frivilligt, vare sig av tvång eller av rädsla för straff. Och det är genom att på detta sätt ta emot och besvara Guds kärlek som vi uppfyller vår kallelse som människor, blir fullkomliga, heliga och lyckliga.Men när vi väl har erfarit Guds kärlek och blivit övertygade om hans godhet mot oss och upptänds av en naturlig längtan att besvara hans kärlek, vad skall vi då göra? Det är detta vi hörde om i dagens läsning. ”Var och en som tror att Jesus är Kristus, han är född av Gud, och den som älskar fadern älskar också hans barn.” (1 Joh 5:1). Denna vers kan tolkas på två sätt samtidigt. Den som verkligen älskar Gud Fadern älskar också den som av evighet är född av honom, Jesus Kristus. Men den som verkligen älskar Gud älskar också hans andra barn, våra medmänniskor. Vidare hörde vi att ”detta är kärleken till Gud: att vi håller hans bud.” (1 Joh 5:3). När vi väl själva har erfarit och tagit emot Guds kärlek, då kan vi, drivna av denna kärlek, i sin tur älska Gud genom att hålla hans bud. Och när det är kärlek snarare än rädsla som driver oss att hålla Guds bud, då upplever vi dem inte som tunga, utan det blir tvärtom en glädje att dela Jesu skonsamma ok och lätta börda (jfr Matt 11:30).Låt oss be om nåden att vi själva och alla människor får nåden att verkligen erfara Guds kärlek och komma till tro på den, så att vi, drivna av denna kärlek, i vår tur älska Gud och våra medmänniskor genom att av kärlek hålla Guds bud. Amen. Passionists Jesus Christ Light not seen meditating on his humanityChrist has come, yet his glory has not yet been revealed. “For we are the children of God, and what we shall become has not yet appeared. We know that, when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” St. John says in his letter.What shall we do till he comes? Study him as he appears to us now, as a servant. Follow him in his humanity, St. Augustine says. See him one with the leper, the poor, those cast aside.Until he comes, “until this comes to pass, until he gives us the sight of what will completely satisfy us, until we drink our fill of him, the fountain of life — while we wander about, apart from him but strong in faith, while we hunger and thirst for justice, longing with a desire too deep for words for the beautiful vision of God, let us fervently and devotedly celebrate the anniversary of his birth in the form of a servant.We cannot yet contemplate the fact that he was begotten by the Father before the dawn, so let us hold on to the fact that he was born of the Virgin in the night. We do not yet understand how his name endures before the sun, so let us acknowledge his tabernacle placed in the sun.Since we do not, as yet, gaze upon the Only Son inseparably united with His Father, let us remember the Bridegroom coming out of his bride-chamber. Since we are not yet ready for the banquet of our Father, let us acknowledge the manger of our Lord Jesus Christ.”You say, I am allowed to do anything —but not everything is good for you. You say, I am allowed to do anything —but not everything is beneficial. Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others. Looking at it one way, you could say, Anything goes. Because of God’s immense generosity and grace, we don’t have to dissect and scrutinize every action to see if it will pass muster. But the point is not to just get by. 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 Amplified Bible23 All things are lawful [that is, morally legitimate, permissible], but not all things are beneficial or advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life]. 24 Let no one seek [only] his own good, but [also] that of the other person.The Word of God for the Children of God.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen.Do All to the Glory of God …There is that all encompassing word.All means that one thing, a series of specific somethings is to be done each and every time … without exception … as in an instruction manual or repair guides.A set of processes must be done in an exact order each and every time it is done.GOD IS GOOD, AND ALL THE TIME, GOD IS GOOD!DO ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD(ALL) Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen.So, how does that all encompassing command from the Word of God, “do all to the glory of God” sit with our usual daily routines? Who can accomplish “ALL?”Do you struggle to do it all? I don’t know about you, but more oftentimes than not, the burdens of life weighs heavy on my shoulders. Between chores, tending to my spouse’s needs, working out, prioritizing spiritual disciplines, and caring for myself, my church, distant family, many days leave me weary and ragged. I know that Jesus calls me away from what’s not a priority to the things that are.I know that Jesus doesn’t always want me to be always weary, famished, and flailing, drowning from the waves that surround me. And yet, I am human. My flesh is weak. I stumble and fall more than I’d like to admit. Can you 1% relate?Philippians 4:12-13 Amplified Bible12 I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. 13 I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]As I approach all these coming days of 2025, one statement has rung repeatedly in my mind: “You can do anything (you are called to do), but not everything.” The difference between anything and everything is found in 1 Corinthians 10. In a long address to the Church in Corinth, Apostle Paul preaches a similar message. As Christians, we are to learn all we can from Israel’s long history of idolatry.We’re also summoned by the Word of God to learn all we can from those who have come before us.This is why 1 Corinthians 10 explains that while we are given freedom in Christ, this freedom isn’t an excuse to cease our bible studies or to keep on sinning. Galatians 5:13 points to a similar message:“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one” (NIV).Galatians 5:13-15 Amplified Bible13 For you, my brothers, were called to freedom; only do not let your freedom become an opportunity for the [a]sinful nature (worldliness, selfishness), but through [b]love serve and seek the best for one another. 14 For the whole Law [concerning human relationships] is fulfilled in one precept, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, you shall have an unselfish concern for others and do things for their benefit].” 15 But if you bite and devour one another [in bickering and strife], watch out that you [along with your entire fellowship] are not consumed by one another.What does this have to do with doing it all?While our faith should enable us to do all things (Philippians 4:13), through Christ who strengthens. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:23 to carefully evaluate who and what we give priority, devote our time and our faith to.Yes, our freedom in Christ has set us free.We are more than just a little capable of anything God gives us the ability to do.But that does not mean we should engage in other things that aren’t good for us or causes or makes others stumble and fall. This also means that we should not fall captive to believing that we should automatically say “YES” to everything. Our mission as Christians is to spread the Good News of the gospel.This is called the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20. Our goal is not to please man, but God (1 Thessalonians 2:4).Unfortunately, many of us, myself included, often get this misconstrued.We believe the lie that we must do everything. Before we know it, we think we’re invincible superhumans who can’t let anyone down ever.Saying “no” becomes a curse word, a relationship tried and true sure breaker, and what truly matters to us has fallen far behind, getting lost in the noise. As much as I’d love to say I can do it all, I simply can’t, and neither can you.But that’s okay.In Acts 6, the disciples learned a similar lesson we can all learn from.When disputes broke out over widows being overlooked in the daily distribution of food, they felt distraught (vs.1).This was an unfair issue that needed justice!Yet, the disciples knew that while they could attempt to do it all, they shouldn’t.Their mission was to study Scripture and share the gospel.What did they do?They shared the burden and lightened the load by delegating that task (and many others) to those who could help. Acts 6:2-4 says it this way:“So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, ‘It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our fullest attention to prayer and the ministry of the word'” (NIV). If you’re struggling to do it all this year, might I remind you that you were never meant to do everything, that is, us to 100% recall; “we are the Body of Christ.”God has empowered us through the Holy Spirit to do incredible things—things far beyond that which we could ever ask, think, or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).Yet, we were never called to do it all. We are all finite humans with limited time, energy, and resources. The difference between anything and everything is our realizing what’s a priority Give God all the Glory (Proverbs 3:5-8) and what isn’t worth our time or God’s precious time, remembering often enough …Proverbs 16:18 AmplifiedPride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall …Proverbs 11:2 Amplified Bible2 When pride comes [boiling up with an arrogant attitude of self-importance], then come dishonor and shame, But with the humble [the teachable who have been chiseled by trial and who have learned to walk humbly with God] there is wisdom and soundness of mind.https://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?qs_version=AMP&quicksearch=Pride&begin=24&end=24&resultspp=25 As our Creator, God know how quickly we’ll try to do it all. But if we’re honest, this leaves us feeling famished, exhausted, and weary. As we start moving into 2025, please God help us to prioritize the “anything’s” from the “everything’s.”Bring our priorities to the surface, give us peace in knowing that while we can do all things through Christ, Give God all the Glory, save none for yourselves, we were never intended, meant, to bear up all of our sinful life’s burdens alone. In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,Let us Pray.Psalm 23 (AKJV)A Psalm of David. 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen. 1 Corinthians 6:12 – 20 v 12 “You say I am allowed to do anything”- but not everything is good for you.”You say I am allowed to do anything”- but not everything is good for you.” Í must not become a slave to anything. But you can’t say our bodies were made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. The person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him. Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? So, you must honor God with your body.“They were made for the Lord and the Lord cares about our bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6 v 13b I don’t get it, why boys want to be girls and why girls want to be boys, but that is not to say that it is not good. One of the basic truths of Christianity is God is good. This passage starts with the statement, you are allowed to do anything but not everything is good! We all have our struggles, about sexuality and our bodies. Let us remember that they are a temple of the Holy Spirit. As Christians we are to love first God, then our neighbor as ourselves, which puts loving ourselves and our neighbor as equal second. How we look on the outside is not important to God, who sees our hearts, but we do have the choice as to how we look and looking good means something different to everyone, just as our sexuality means something different. It might be the struggle of constantly being on a diet, of trying to exercise despite our aging bodies, of wanting to live a specific gender different to the sex we were born with. Remember that our bodies are a temple for the Holy Spirit and the things we do to them should be good.Prayer: Heavenly Father who made us in His image, we thank you for the choices we have concerning our bodies and our sexuality. Guide us as we navigate through our lives and teach us to love the good in ourselves and others. Amen.BYU archeologists recently “discovered” the lost Book of Lemuel, Nephi’s older brother. It was hidden in an ancient temple. Scripture Central scholars have now translated the text. Here is my revision and abridgment: Chapter OneI, Lemuel, having been born of zealous nagging parents, therefore, my brother Laman and I have been harassed much of our lives. Not only by our parents, but also by our younger, self-righteous brother Nephi.  Chapter TwoDad is crazy!  The Old Man says we must leave our friends in Jerusalem and go into the wilderness.  He thinks he’s some kind of Moses. He came home angry after yelling at people to repent. They threw rocks and garbage at him.  No kidding! I think one of the rocks hit him in the head and scrambled his brains. When he came home, he laid on his bed for hours.  Laman thought it was a coma.  So did I.Chapter ThreeThe Old Man now says we have to leave everything we own because he had a dream! Unbelievable!  He says he had another dream, and we have to go back to town and get some brass records from Uncle Laban. No way will Laban hand them over! Laman says we shouldn’t go.  I agree.  Chapter FourLaman and I were finally forced into going back to the city. The hike was murder. Laban got drunk.  He was so mad, he beat up Laman. Better him than me!We stopped by our old house and got gold to buy the brass plates, but Laban’s gang chased us away and stole our stuff. Laman was furious!  I thought his head would explode.We grabbed some sticks and started beating Nephi. It felt good. Then some weird angel showed up and told us to knock it off. Nephi lucked out – again!Nephi went back to the city by himself. He chopped off Laban’s head, and stole the plates. I didn’t know Nephi had it in him! And everybody thinks Nephi so righteous! Now he is a thief and a murderer! Go figure!Chapter FiveThe Old Man finally came to his senses.  He sent us back into the city to get Ismael’s daughters.  They are babes! Laman and I picked the “hottest” ones. Nephi chose a “sweet spirit” — all smart and spiritual. His loss!Nephi is a real pain in the camel’s behind! He keeps pestering us to “repent,” and “go and do.”  We ignore him. What a hypocrite!  Who does he think he is!  Laman started calling him a “thief” and “murderer.” Me too.Chapter SixI’m not happy!  I got food poisoning from roasted scorpions. Nephi said I should cut off the tails, but Laman told him to shut up.  Maybe Nephi was right.Nephi keeps telling me to think for myself and stop agreeing with everything Laman says and stop following Laman around like a puppy.  The Old Man found a golden ball thingy.  He stares at it for hours. He thinks it tells us where to go. We all just want to go back home. We don’t need a compass for that.Mom thinks she’s pregnant.  She’s too old to have a baby.  Laman says it’s just gas from the crappy food. I agree. Chapter SevenWell, Mom had a baby after all.  She named him Jake, short for Jacob. Laban thinks the name is too common.  So do I.  I now have two kids.  I named them Jezebel and Judas. Uncle Nephi calls them “little terrors,” and says they need to repent. Nephi sounds like a broken record. It’s always, “Repent!” and “Go and Do.” Laman told Nephi to mind his own business.  I agreed.My wife is getting buff. She could probably beat me in arm wrestling. I think it’s from eating all the raw steaks.  The Old Man says we can’t cook food. Laman says that’s nonsense. Me too.  Laman’s wife is huge! I called her an “eight cow wife.” I thought it was funny, but she beat me up. Laman also thought it was funny, but he didn’t say that to her face.  Nephi told us to repent. AGAIN! Chapter EightNephi says God told him to build a ship. Yea, right!  Nephi’s never even seen a ship. Laman and I laughed at him.  Now, he thinks he’s Noah. Dad still thinks he’s Moses.Nephi’s weird angel forced us to help out. Nephi kept complaining that we weren’t working hard enough.  He kept pestering us. He finally gave up and finished the ship by himself.  Laman said that would happen. I agreed.  Nephi broke his metal super bow. We were starving.  Even Dad complained. Nephi told us to consider it as a religious fast. His self-righteous attitude is super annoying.Chapter NineIt’s now been eight very long years. We have suffered hardship after hardship. Blisters, scorpion bites, snake bites, food poisoning, hunger, thirst, and broken teeth from the grit in our food.But the worst part is Nephi’s nagging. He constantly tells us to “repent” and “cease murmuring,” whatever that means. We need some way to shut him up. Nephi’s ship is finally finished. Laman said it wouldn’t float.  So did I.Nephi wants to name the boat “Obedience.” Laman laughed and said it was a stupid name.  Laman thought we should name it “Homesick” or “Nightmare.” Me too.  Mom had another baby.  He’s called Joe. Laman said it was a dumb name.  I agreed.   Chapter TenWe are now at sea.  I got seasick!  Will we ever see land again? The voyage is so boring! Laman said we should party.  I agreed.We got drunk, and Nephi got really mad.  We finally shut him up by tying him to the mast and stuffing a rag in his mouth.  No more: “Repent!” “Go and Do!” “Murmur Not!”A giant storm hit.  The Old Man said God is punishing us. Yea, right!  I got so seasick I thought I would die.  Nephi’s wife persuaded the wimps in the family to let Nephi loose.Chapter ElevenWe survived the sea voyage and finally landed. It’s my turn to hunt, but there might be dangerous animals in this new area.  Maybe I can con Jake or Joe into going for me.We’ve barely arrived and Nephi is already talking about building a temple. Laman told Nephi to give it a rest. So did I.Laman told me the only way we’ll get any peace and quiet is to move out on our own. I agreed.  Seems like a good idea. Anything to get away from “Mr. Repent.”Chapter TwelveWe finally moved away. For once, we got some peace and quiet.  No more “Go and Do.”  No more “Repent.” No more “Murmur Not.”Laman said since he is the eldest, he should be our leader.  I agreed.  It’s tradition. Nephi always said God wanted him to rule over us. But Laman said Nephi was just making it all up. Me too.Since we moved away, we have developed a weird skin rash.  It’s itchy. We can’t seem to get rid of it.  Our skin seems to be getting darker.  Must be the sun.  Laman said that Nephi would probably call it a “curse” for our supposed “unrighteousness.” I agree. What a bunch of nonsense! We had a good laugh.  I’m sure our skin problem will go away eventually.The End[I originally came across a copy of “Lemuel’s Diary,” author unknown. Although I have re-written it, I cannot get full credit — or blame.]

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fra Mario Knezović - Božji glas osluškuj, a ne glas ovog svijeta känner DU till RR TOLKIEN ?(Here be some thoughts from Kaleb Hammond the connection between J.R.R. Tolkien and the Oratory of Saint Philip Neri, specifically the ‘London Oratory’, in the midst of which Tolkien spent his formative years. We had hoped to post them on January 3rd, Tolkien’s birthday, but, well, the best laid plans and all that. Perhaps providential, since such permits an anecdote into the author’s deep spiritual life: At sixteen, he had fallen precociously in love with Edith Mary Bratt, three years his senior, the emotional turmoil of which was affecting his grades. So his Oratorian priest-mentor, Father Francis, ordered him not to see or write to her until he turned 21. Tolkien obeyed to the letter, and Edith thought he had lost interest, so became engaged to someone else. Well, a few days after his 21st birthday – on this January 8th, in 1913 – Tolkien got on a train to meet with Edith, and boldly announced his abiding intention to marry her, to which proposal Edith happily agreed, breaking off the prior engagement. Such is love. They were married that March – and much of what unfolded in the years following provided the basis for Tolkien’s great and enduring work. But, first, to Tolkien’s formation by Saint Philip and his community of charity and joy…).One of the most important influences on J.R.R. Tolkien’s formation as a Catholic was the Oratorian spirituality of St. Philip Neri. Founded in the sixteenth century, the Oratorians follow the rule and imitate the life of St. Philip, living as a community not bound by religious vows but serving the surrounding population (most often in urban areas) and one another through “the threefold ministry given to the Apostles: prayer in common, the administration of the sacraments, and the daily Word of God. The virtues especially cultivated by Oratorians are charity, submission of the individual’s will to the collective mind of the community, and loving to be unknown.”[1] Like St. Philip, called “the third apostle of Rome” after Sts. Peter and Paul due to his service to the poor of the city and “because he did so much to restore the reputation of Rome during a period in which it had become decadent and morally corrupt”,[2] the Oratorians operate schools, visit the sick, accommodate visitors and maintain a liturgical tradition which emphasizes beauty and obedience, thus drawing many closer to Christ.Tolkien’s first contact with the Oratory came through his mother Mabel who, after taking her two sons to a series of ugly and crowded churches pastored by busy and elderly priests, decided to settle near the Birmingham Oratory, established by St. John Henry Newman as the first Oratory in Britain. There, the Tolkiens discovered a thriving house of younger priests who were passionate and well-educated.[3] With the help of one of the Oratorians, the Spanish-Welsh Fr. Francis Xavier Morgan, Mabel was able to secure Tolkien a place first in the Oratory’s cheaper St. Philip’s Grammar School, then, with the aid of her private tutoring, he was awarded a Foundation Scholarship and enrolled at King Edward’s School in Birmingham.[4]Following Mabel’s untimely death from diabetes, Fr. Morgan became the legal guardian of the Tolkien boys, raising them in what Tolkien described as “a ‘good Catholic home’ – ‘in excelsis’”, where he became “virtually a junior inmate of the Oratory house, which contained many learned fathers (largely ‘converts’).”[5] Fr. Morgan took the boys on vacations to Lyme Regis[6] while also allowing them to spend time with their relations, despite the anti-Catholic prejudices they held and from which he shielded them.[7] In this way, Fr. Francis became the one from whom, as Tolkien described, he “first learned charity and forgiveness” and corrected the prejudice of contemporary English society against Catholics, including its view of Marian devotion “as an object of wicked worship by the Romanists.”[8]The marks of Oratorian spirituality proved to be formative throughout Tolkien’s life, and in honor of them, he chose St. Philip Neri as his patron saint. This is confirmed by three interesting facts: the direct confirmation of his daughter Priscilla to Tolkien scholar Dr. Holly Ordway; the writing of his name in Elvish script as “John Ronald Philip Ruel Tolkien”; and the familiar monogram used by Tolkien which includes “the otherwise apparently extraneous spur on the right-hand side of the T upright” indicating the addition of a P to his JRRT initials. (footnote here).[9]The vocation of the Oratory is characterized by three special emphases: “fervent devotion to God the Holy Spirit, to the Blessed Sacrament, and to the Madonna.”[10] Each of these were also central to Tolkien’s own spiritual life. The Holy Spirit in Middle-earth is called the “Secret Fire” and the “Flame Imperishable,” the divine Person whom Ilúvatar (the Elvish name for the “True God”)[11] sent into the heart of the world at its Creation: “Therefore Ilúvatar gave to their vision Being, and set it amid the Void, and the Secret Fire was sent to burn at the heart of the World; and it was called Eä.”[12] He is also the one whom Gandalf invokes during his spiritual battle against the demonic Balrog on the bridge of Khazad-dûm with his memorable words: “I am a servant of the Secret Fire, wielder of the flame of Anor. You cannot pass.”[13] Tolkien made this connection between the Holy Spirit and the Secret Fire explicit to his friend and assistant, Clyde S. Kilby.[14]Like his devotion to the Holy Ghost, Tolkien also had a deep love for Christ in the Eucharist. He was a daily communicant[15] and recommended it to his son Michael as the “only cure for sagging [or] fainting faith”;[16] greatly respected and upheld the liturgical Tradition of the Church in a time of upheavals;[17] and penned one of the most beautiful statements of Eucharistic faith in history:Out of the darkness of my life, so much frustrated, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: the Blessed Sacrament….. There you will find romance, glory, honour, fidelity, and the true way of all your loves upon earth, and more than that: Death: by the divine paradox, that which ends life, and demands the surrender of all, and yet by the taste (or foretaste) of which alone can what you seek in your earthly relationships (love, faithfulness, joy) be maintained, or take on that complexion of reality, of eternal endurance, which every man’s heart desires.[18]Tolkien also incorporated this devotion into his legendarium, most notably in the Elven bread called lembas, agreeing with the insight of one reader who connected lembas (Elvish for “waybread”) to the Eucharist as viaticum and “to its feeding the will… and being more potent when fasting, a derivation from the Eucharist.”[19] As Tolkien scholar Bradley Birzer explains, “Indeed, the Elven lembas arguably serves as Tolkien’s most explicit symbol of Christianity in The Lord of the Rings; it is a representation, though pre-Christian, of the Eucharist. For Tolkien, nothing represented a greater gift from God than the actual Body and Blood of Christ.”[20]Likewise, he also followed the Oratorians in holding a filial love for his spiritual mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom he recognized as “the only unfallen [human] person,”[21] acknowledging the same aforementioned reader’s view that “the invocations of Elbereth, and the character of Galadriel as directly described (or through the words of Gimli and Sam) were clearly related to Catholic devotion to Mary.”[22] He elsewhere stated that “I owe much of this character [Galadriel] to Christian and Catholic teaching and imagination about Mary,”[23] and told his friend, Fr. Robert Murray, SJ, “I think I know exactly what you mean by the order of Grace; and of course by your references to Our Lady, upon which all my own small perception of beauty both in majesty and simplicity is founded.”[24]Two other attributes are also keys to Oratorian spirituality and were cherished by St. Philip Neri: “loving to be unknown” and a light-hearted spirit which gave St. Philip the title “the apostle of joy.” For Tolkien, “[t]he ennoblement of the ignoble” and “the ennoblement (or sanctification) of the humble” were overarching themes of his works which he found “specially moving.”[25] As he explained, “A moral of the whole… is the obvious one that without the high and noble the simple and vulgar is utterly mean; and without the simple and ordinary the noble and heroic is meaningless.”[26] Despite his impoverished and orphaned upbringing, Tolkien also had what Dr. Ordway describes as a “deep-seated streak of joy and fun”, seen especially in the simple good-nature of the Hobbits: “Both The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings take the characters, and the reader, through darkness, sorrow, and loss, but both stories are also deeply grounded in the simple, joyful life of the Hobbits in the Shire—where both books begin, and end.” He retained this “playful, even silly… joyfulness” into adulthood as a father and Oxford don, delighting, like St. Philip, in playing practical jokes on his friends.[27] In this way, his mother’s choice to raise him in the Oratory proved to be one of many special graces imparted through her to Tolkien.Footnotes:[1] Birmingham Oratory, “Vocations”: https://www.birminghamoratory.org.uk/vocations/[2] Holly Ordway, “What’s in a Name? Tolkien and St. Philip Neri,” at Word on Fire (26 May 2023), at http://www.wordonfire.org.[3] Holly Ordway, Tolkien’s Faith (Elk Grove Village, IL: Word on Fire Academic, 2023), chapter four.[4] Birmingham Oratory, “Tolkien and the Oratory”: https://www.birminghamoratory.org.uk/tolkien-and-the-oratory/[5] J.R.R. Tolkien; Humphrey Carpenter and Christopher Tolkien (eds), The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien (New York: Houghton Mifflin, 2000), letter 306. Kindle.[6] Birmingham Oratory, “Tolkien and the Oratory”: https://www.birminghamoratory.org.uk/tolkien-and-the-oratory/[7] Ordway, “What’s in a Name? Tolkien and St. Philip Neri.”[8] Tolkien, letter 267.[9] Ordway, “What’s in a Name? Tolkien and St. Philip Neri.”[10] Birmingham Oratory: https://www.birminghamoratory.org.uk/vocations/[11] Tolkien, letters 156, 183.[12] J.R.R. Tolkien, The Silmarillion, ed. Christopher Tolkien (London: HarperCollins, 2013), 15.[13] J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings (Mariner Books, 2004), 330. Kindle.[14] Clyde S. Kilby, Tolkien & The Silmarillion (Wheaton, Illinois: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1976), 59.[15] George W. Rutler, “To his dying day, Tolkien was a daily communicant,” Catholic Education Resource Center (19 May 2019), https://www.catholiceducation.org.[16] Tolkien, letter 250.[17] Tolkien, letter 306.[18] Tolkien, letter 43.[19] Tolkien, letter 213.[20] Bradley J. Birzer, Sanctifying Myth: Understanding Middle-earth (Wilmington, Delaware: ISI Books, 2002), 63.[21] Tolkien, letters, p. 454.[22] Tolkien, letter 213.[23] Tolkien, letter 320.[24] Tolkien, letter 142.[25] Tolkien, letters 165 and 181.[26] Tolkien, letter 131.[27] Ordway, “What’s in a Name? Tolkien and St. Philip Neri.”lite mera om DU gillar att läsa ?https://open.substack.com/pub/liturgicalyearinart/p/fra-angelicos-last-judgment-and-hallowtide?r=4mab6i&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=emailmorfar och farfar hade oxar kommer ihåg men var dock väldigt litenOXENS symbol är APOSTELN LUKAS som var läkarehttps://x.com/TaylorRMarshall/status/1876870417777910216https://x.com/GloryBeeGod4evr/status/1876599105201619362 St. Thomas Aquinas writes, “Mary is the whole hope of our salvation,” and “Through the intercession of Mary any souls are in Paradise who would not be there had she not interceded for them, for God has entrusted her with the keys and treasures of the heavenly kingdom.”To deny Mary’s role in the Incarnation is to deny or attack the Incarnation itself. Saint John defines the antichrist as ‘a spirit’ (I Jn IV, 3)that does not confess ‘Jesus Christ come in the flesh’ (II Jn 0,7), the spirit at work in all the false religions and great heresies.What is the devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor? The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor, also known as Our Lady of Quick Help, is a Marian devotion within the Catholic Church, which centers around the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a source of help and protection in times of need. This devotion is based on the belief that Mary, as the mother of Jesus and a mother to all, is able to hear the cries of her children and to come to their aid quickly and efficiently.The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is closely linked to the idea of Mary as a motherly figure who is able to offer assistance and support to those who are in need. Many people turn to Our Lady of Prompt Succor in times of crisis, seeking her intercession and protection in difficult situations. The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is particularly popular among Catholics in the state of Louisiana, USA where there’s a long history of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary under this title.One of the unique aspects of the devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is that it is open to anyone who is in need of help, regardless of their background or beliefs. Many people who are not Catholic or who do not have any specific religious beliefs find comfort in the devotion, as it is seen as a source of hope and support.The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor also emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in Mary’s protection. It is believed that those who turn to Our Lady of Prompt Succor with faith and trust will be granted her help and protection.The Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor is celebrated on January 8th. On this day, Catholics gather at the church to pray, sing hymns and attend mass in honor of Our Lady. Many people make a pilgrimage to the church on this day, sometimes traveling from great distances.The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is also spread by different groups and communities dedicated to promote the devotion and to offer spiritual and emotional support to those who are in need. Many of these communities have a website or social media where they provide resources, prayers, and information about the devotion.The devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is also present in many other parts of the world, particularly in areas with large Catholic populations. Many churches, chapels and shrines are dedicated to Our Lady of Prompt Succor, and the devotion is particularly popular among those who are facing difficult situations and seeking Mary’s assistance.In conclusion, the devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor is a Marian devotion within the Catholic Church, which centers around the belief that the Virgin Mary is a source of help and protection in times of need. It’s based on the idea of Mary as a motherly figure who cares for and understands those who are in need, it’s open to anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, and it emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in Mary’s protection. This devotion is particularly popular in Louisiana, USA. The Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor is celebrated on January 8th, and the devotion is spread by different groups and communities, and it’s particularly popular among those who are in need and seeking Mary’s assistance.Our LadyOur Lady of Prompt Succor with a Our Lady of Prompt Succor – and AgainSt. Hurricanes Prayer CardWhen is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor The Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor, also known as Our Lady of Quick Help, is celebrated on January 8th every year. This date marks the anniversary of the dedication of the Shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succor in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1810.Our Lady of Prompt Succor is the patroness of the city of New Orleans and the state of Louisiana. She is invoked for her powerful intercession, especially during times of crisis and need. The tradition tells that the Virgin Mary appeared to a French Ursuline Sister in 1810 and promised to protect the city of New Orleans, especially during Yellow fever epidemics, and other crises.The Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor is celebrated with mass and processions, and with the recitation of the Rosary. Many people will also light candles and offer prayers to Our Lady of Prompt Succor. It is a time for Catholics to come together and reflect on the messages of the Virgin Mary and to ask for her intercession in their own lives.This Feast Day is also an opportunity for Catholics to honor the Virgin Mary, who is the patroness of the city of New Orleans, and to seek her protection and guidance. The messages of Our Lady of Prompt Succor encourages the faithful to lead a life of prayer and devotion and to trust in her powerful intercession.Whether you’re able to attend mass on this day or not, the Feast Day of Our Lady of Prompt Succor is an opportunity to honor the Virgin Mary and to reflect on her role in your life. It is a reminder of her constant presence and her love for all her children.Gospel Reflection on the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time Christ Came to Set us Free This week’s Gospel reading speaks to us about morality. Morality is the way we live our lives as disciples of Jesus. James exhorts us in the second reading: “be doers of the word and not hearers only”. The word of God is living and active. Rather than being something that can be grabbed and possessed, the Word of God grabs and possesses us, it spurs us on to action. We hear the word of God and we want to put it into practice.Sounds good so far, right? Hear the word of God and put it into practice by living a moral life. But, there can often be a bit of a disconnect between faith and life. We hear about Jesus, we believe in him, we want to be his disciples, we understand that living the moral life is what this means. Then what do we get?It seems like we get a bunch of rules and regulations. We want to follow Jesus, and we get a list of things we are not supposed to do: thou shalt not this, that, and the other thing. Whether it is the Ten Commandments, the moral teachings of the gospel, or something from the Catechism, it seems to outline a bunch of stuff we are not allowed to do.God’s Teachings Through the CommandmentsDoesn’t it seem like God looked at the human heart, found all the things we really want to do, then made commandments against it? Don’t we love to speak ill of our neighbor: can’t do it, that’s gossip. Don’t we just love to be angry at our enemies: can’t do it, we are supposed to love our enemies. Don’t we just love to indulge in any kind of pleasurable thing: can’t do it, that is lust, or greed, or gluttony. It seems like we are stuck in some cosmic tug of war.On the one hand there is the moral code, and on the other, there are the inclinations of our hearts set in opposition. So, for many of us, life becomes a matter of trying to dodge the sin we might desire in our hearts. It is almost as if sin were potholes in the road: if we can just make it down the street without hitting any of the major potholes we will be ok. But, this is a crazy way to live life. And this is not what morality is supposed to be about. Morality is not a matter of avoiding sin. Rather, it’s about living life to the full.Listen again to the words from Deuteronomy: hear the statutes and decrees (why? So that life will be miserable and you will be prone to fail? No) so that you may live, and may enter and take possession of the land. That is so beautiful, “hear the statutes and decrees so that you may live”. God gives us the commandments through Christ and the Church not because he wants us to struggle and fail, but because he wants us to be happy and blessed. We were not made for sin! We were made to be holy, to be with God, to live.Sacraments Set Us Free But, what about our sinful inclinations: today Christ labels it so well, there is a bunch of junk that can pour out of our hearts: evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, etc. We have inherited original sin, we are prone to fall. But, Christ came to help us. Through grace, we can be healed, maybe not totally in this life. Christ came to set us free, he came to purify our minds and our hearts. Jesus did not come simply to give us a new set of rules and regulations; rather, he came to set us free. He does this especially through the sacraments. When we are baptized, confirmed, when we receive communion, confess our sins, when we are anointed, when you got married, when I got ordained, the grace of God is at work within us, making us more like Christ, healing us down to our hearts.So the moral life was not given to us to make us miserable. It is a guide to true human fulfillment. While our hearts are set in opposition to the law, Christ came to set us free. We cannot lose hope. Christ came to renew and transform us, Christ came to heal our hearts, so that a life of discipleship is not one of misery, but one of joy. Right here in this Holy Eucharist Christ pours his life out for us, as we receive his body and blood, he can transform us, heal us, set us free so that we can live and be with him in that promised land that awaits us.Rules Versus Freedom Today’s readings get to the heart of something I think is very important: namely the difference between the rules and a relationship with Christ. Christianity is not simply a set of rules and regulations. Jesus does not set out for us a bunch of hoops to jump through, he wants us to follow him. He is calling us by name. He invites us to be his followers. He tells us that he will lead us to his Father. He promises to give us life eternal. Jesus did not come to simply give us a new set of rules. His criticism of the Pharisees shows that pretty well. Jesus doesn’t want us to jump through hoops, he wants to change our hearts. But, does this mean there are no rules? No regulations? No guidelines?Why Do Catholics Have So Many Rules? There are 1752 canons in the code of Canon law that Catholics follow. But, why do those rules exist? The law of the church helps to organize the outward structures of the church, it safeguards the rights of the faithful, it gives structure and coherence to the body of Christ. The law of the church is never a substitute for faith in Christ. Rather, the law presupposes a personal relationship with Christ. Without faith in Christ, the laws of the church all seem pretty silly. Law and faith, it seems to me, go hand in hand. You really cannot have one without the other. Canon law without faith is silly; faith without canon law would be anarchy and chaos.We always need to have a good mix between structure and spontaneity, between law and faith. If it’s all one and none of the other things will go poorly. A healthy life of faith is structured, but also spontaneously moved by Christ and the Spirit. But, some people’s life of faith is nothing but rules and regulations. For these people, there is mortal sin everywhere, and they are just trying to dodge it. Here, the only reason we would go to church is to be sure we don’t end up going to hell. It seems like the life of faith is more than just the rules, just dodging sin.What are Cafeteria Catholics? But, we can go to the other extreme as well. Some people say that all that matters is their relationship with God. This extreme usually says: I’m a person of faith, but I don’t need religion. I can talk to God any time I want to, but I don’t have to go to church. I believe in God, but I don’t believe all those rules the church made up, etc. Sometimes, these individuals are called “Cafeteria Catholics”, meaning they walk down the line of what the Catholic Church offers, and they pick and choose what they like and walk away from the aspects they do not like about the church. A life of faith like this has no root, no foundation, no guidance, no anchor. Without structure, human beings end up in anarchy.So, there always has to be a good mix. If you tend to be a more rule-driven person, spend time praying to Christ as a way to build up that relationship with him. Ask him to fill your heart with the guidance of the Spirit. If you have that spiritual relationship with Christ, make sure you learn more about the implications of this relationship. Learn why the Church teaches what it does. Make sure your life of faith is structured with sound teachings. Faith without rules is anarchy, but rules without faith do not make sense either. If we are going to grow in our life of faith, we need to grow closer to Christ, but also to learn the teachings and practice of the faith.Jesus did not come to earth simply to give us a new set of rules, or hoops to jump through. He calls us to a change of heart. But, we will never be able to have that change of heart unless we listen to his voice, a voice that speaks to us through the teachings of the Church.Living Out the Word of God St. James’ letter is enjoyable to read because he is very down to earth and practical. Consider the line from today’s reading: “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” I think that St. James is describing a disconnect that many of us feel from time to time. We want to do the right thing. But, if we are honest, we do not do the right thing. We hear the Word of the Lord, but we find it tough to live it out.It seems that the Pharisees are being challenged by Jesus for the same gap, the same disconnect. They are passing along the teachings of the Bible, but he is pointing out that they are not getting to the deep truth of the law. Concerned with actions, they are missing something. It is good for us to pay attention, because if we stay concerned with actions alone, we will miss something too. Whenever we read the gospels it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking about the Pharisees as being bad people. They tend to get the brunt of Jesus’ wrath. We can even use the word Pharisee as an insult right? Don’t be a Pharisee… But, Pharisees were anything but bad people.Pharisees were religious leaders. They were teachers of the Torah. They studied the scriptures. They tried to live the commands. They tried to teach others to live God’s commands too. In fact, I often think that they had my job. As pastor, my job is to receive God’s word. To put it into action in my own life and to teach other people how to put it into action.Finding Deeper Love through Jesus Holy-Spirit-in-Nature So, where do they go wrong? In today’s Gospel, they are focusing on the washing of hands, which, we can all agree is a good thing to do. We can all agree that cleanliness is a good thing. Hopefully you wouldn’t say that Jesus is teaching us to break the laws or the commandments. Actually, what Jesus is doing is showing us that we need to go deeper. What is the cause of the gap between being hearers and doers of the word? What is the gap between wanting to do the right thing, and not being able to do it. Simple: the gap is the human heart.Perhaps the most radical thing that Jesus did was to extend the gospel into the hearts of the faithful. You see, the law does a great job of telling us about our conduct: do not kill, do not commit adultery, etc. But, Jesus wants more. He wants his love and mercy to live in our hearts. The grace of the New Testament is that God can change us from the inside out.The Pharisees probably never considered that a person could have a new heart. Perhaps they never considered that a person could get rid of anger, but they could stop from killing people. Perhaps they never considered that a person could get rid of lust, but they could stop from committing adultery. We would all agree that abstaining from murder and adultery is really great. But, if we are still holding on to anger, jealousy, lust, envy, etc. We will never be truly free.Focusing on the externals is much easier than the conversion of the heart. This is why Jesus is arguing with the Pharisees today. Of course it’s important to follow the commandments, but to live freedom to the fullest requires a new heart.How to Open Your Heart to Jesus So, how do we get this new heart? Number 1: prayer. God can change us from the inside out. But, he doesn’t do it against our will. Prayer is a time for us to call on God and to invite him in. “Lord, change my heart. Give me your grace. Take away my anger, fill me with compassion.” These prayers are really effective. And, we only have to pray like this for the rest of our lives. So, no better time than to start today.A second step would be to bring some conscious awareness to your thoughts and emotions. How many of us can even say that we recognize that we are being affected by anger, jealousy or the lot? Yet, we might say that we are struggling with sin. Jesus tells us that all sin starts in the heart. So, if we take some time to bring awareness to what is going on in our internal life, we might find the roots of some of our issues.Third, it can be really helpful to reach out to another person. If we are carrying around any number of negative feelings and emotions, it can feel overpowering at times. It’s really hard to change our lives when we are burdened with these things. Yet, by sharing what is going on with a trusted friend, the burden seems a little lighter. Also, I find that journaling really helps. To get negative stuff down on paper helps to take away its power.Prayer, awareness, and assistance. These things can really help to give us a new heart, one that is full of love and goodness. Because, the Pharisees had one thing right, we do need to follow the commandments. But, Christ has something even more amazing in mind. He wants us to live a true life of freedom, inside and out. And isn’t that what we all want?Gospel from the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Mk 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus, they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands. —For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders. And on coming from the marketplace they do not eat without purifying themselves. And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed, the purification of cups and jugs and kettles and beds. — So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, “Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?” He responded, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts. You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”He summoned the crowd again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand. Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.“From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.”There is a whisper that threads its way through the hearts of men, insidious and relentless. It is the voice of the adversary, the prince of lies. Before the sin, he comes to you, cloaked in guile and with a serpent’s tongue he speaks: ‘It is nothing. No one will know. It matters not.’ He soothes your conscience, dulls your vigilance and leads you, step by step, toward the abyss. . And once you have fallen, once the deed is done, his mask slips away and the true face of his malice is revealed. He turns upon you with venom in his voice and fire in his eyes. ‘Unforgivable,’ he hisses. ‘You are lost. God will not have you.’ In your ear, he weaves his web of despair, binding you in chains of shame, so that you might never rise again. This is his great design—to convince you that the mercy of God cannot reach where you have fallen. . But hear me now and hear me well: this is the greatest of all lies! There is no pit so deep, no sin so vile, no fall so great that the love of God cannot redeem. Did not Christ Himself walk among sinners, dining with tax collectors, forgiving adulterers, healing the broken? Did He not bear the weight of our sins upon His back, ascending the hill of Golgotha to offer His blood for our redemption? . The devil seeks to chain you in despair but Christ holds the key to your freedom. Where Satan whispers of your unworthiness, the Lord proclaims your value. Where Satan points to your sin, Christ points to His cross. Remember this: the blood of the Lamb is sufficient—sufficient for every sin, for every failure, for every soul that seeks forgiveness. The mercy of God is greater than the malice of the enemy and His grace is deeper than any wound. . Do not let the adversary convince you to wallow in despair. Repent and rise again. For the Lord is not a tyrant eager to condemn but a Father who runs to meet His prodigal child. His arms are open, His heart is ready and His forgiveness is abundant. It is not your sin that defines you, but the grace of God that restores you. . Before the sin, remember the consequences. And after the sin, remember the cross. When the devil speaks, silence him with the Word of God. When he accuses, remind him that your debt has been paid. Stand firm in the truth, and let no lie of the enemy rob you of the joy of salvation. For though the devil may whisper, it is the voice of Christ that thunders across eternity: ‘You are forgiven. You are mine.’“There is no middle way between Catholicism and Atheism … Hence, Protestants have abandoned themselves to the extreme of Atheism or Materialism, denying every maxim of faith. How does it happen that these new “masters of the faith” do not see that being separated from the Catholic Church, and having lost obedience to her, they have also lost the rule of faith, so that at the present time they have no sure rule by which they can ascertain what is of the faith or what is not; thus, they walk in the dark, changing the articles of their belief from day to day.On the other hand, its constant uniformity of doctrine in the dogmas of faith, from its first foundation by Jesus Christ, demonstrates the truth of the Catholic Church. It has been the same in all ages, so that the truths we believe at the present day were believed in the first ages.” – St. Alphonsus LigouriJoseph, one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel and the cherished son of Jacob and Rachel, lived a life filled with extraordinary highs and devastating lows. Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and imprisoned in Egypt, he rose to become the viceroy of the land—all while maintaining unwavering righteousness and a positive spirit. Read on for 21 facts about this remarkable biblical figure and the timeless lessons his story offers.1. He Was One of Jacob’s Twelve Sons Joseph was the eleventh of twelve sons born to Jacob, our third patriarch. His mother, Rachel, also gave birth to Benjamin, Joseph’s only full brother. Jacob’s other ten sons were Joseph’s half-brothers, born to Leah, Bilhah, and Zilpah.1Read: The Twelve Tribes of Israel2. His Name Means “Add” When Rachel finally had a child after years of infertility, she named him Joseph, meaning “to add,” expressing her heartfelt prayer: “May G‑d grant me an additional son.”2 The name also reflects asaf (“to gather in”), as his birth “gathered in” her shame of childlessness.3 There’s a lesson here too: We are each tasked with “adding another son”—bringing another Jew closer to their Father in Heaven.4Read: The Story of Joseph in the Bible3. He Studied Torah With His Father Joseph wasn’t just Jacob’s son; he was also his student. Jacob taught him everything he had learned at the Torah academies of Shem and Eber.5 Even after over two decades of separation (see fact 14), Joseph proved his devotion by recalling the last Torah lesson they had studied together—the laws of the Eglah Arufah (“Decapitated Calf”).6Read: The Yeshiva of Shem and Eber4. His Brothers Were Jealous of Him Joseph was Jacob’s favorite son, born in his old age to his beloved Rachel. Jacob made this affection clear by giving Joseph a specially crafted, colorful garment. This favoritism fueled jealousy among Joseph’s brothers, straining their relationship.7 The Talmud draws a timeless lesson from this story: differentiating between children by giving preferential treatment to one (or some, but not all), even in a small way, can lead to discord and resentment.8Read: Why Did the Brothers Hate Joseph?5. He Had Two Prophetic Dreams Joseph shared two dreams with his brothers—dreams that only deepened their resentment. In the first, he and his brothers were binding sheaves of wheat in the fields. Suddenly, Joseph’s sheaf stood upright and the brothers’ sheaves circled his and bowed to it. In the second dream, the sun, moon, and eleven stars (representing his parents and brothers) bowed to him.9 His brothers saw arrogance,10 but these dreams were actually prophetic signs of the future.Read: Joseph’s Dream6. His Brothers Sold Him Into Slavery One day, Jacob sent Joseph to check on his brothers who were tending their sheep near Shechem. When he arrived, the brothers saw an opportunity to rid themselves of him and threw him into a pit. Then, spotting a caravan of traders, they sold him as a slave. Joseph was taken to Egypt and sold to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh’s ministers.11Read: Go Down Like Joseph7. He Overcame Temptation In Potiphar’s house, Joseph’s charm and success earned him a position as head of the household. But Potiphar’s wife was drawn to Joseph’s good looks and tried to seduce him. One day, when no one else was home, she grabbed his garment, demanding he give in. Joseph fled, leaving his cloak behind.12 His extraordinary self-control earned him the title “Joseph the Righteous” (Yosef HaTzaddik).13Read: Countering the Voice of Temptation8. His Descendants Are Spared the “Evil Eye” The Talmud explains that Joseph’s reward for resisting Potiphar’s wife—even refusing to gaze at her sinfully with his eyes—was measure for measure: his descendants are immune to the “evil eye.”14Read: What Is the Evil Eye?9. Even Imprisonment Didn’t Lower His Spirits After he rejected her advances, Potiphar’s wife falsely accused Joseph of trying to assault her. As a result, he was thrown into prison for twelve years.15 Far from wallowing in anger and indignation, Joseph maintained his faith and positivity, noticing when other inmates were feeling down and offering his help.1610. He Was a Master Dream Interpreter Joseph had the unique ability to accurately interpret dreams. While in prison, he interpreted the dreams of his fellow inmates, the royal sommelier and the royal baker.17 Word of Joseph’s skill eventually reached Pharaoh, whose troubling dreams no one else could explain, setting the stage for Joseph’s incredible rise to power.18 All along, however, Joseph refused to take credit, attributing his interpretations to G‑d.19Read: Joseph the Charmer11. He Was Viceroy of Egypt Joseph explained Pharaoh’s dreams as a Divine message predicting seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. He also advised Pharaoh how to prepare for the famine. Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom, Pharaoh appointed him his viceroy—a dramatic transformation from persecuted prisoner to powerful prince.20Read: Joseph’s Wisdom12. He Was Called Tzafnat Paaneach Upon his appointment as viceroy, Pharaoh named Joseph Tzafnat Paaneach.21 While some believe it is an Egyptian name, others understand it as Hebrew for “clarifier of secrets.”2213. He Orchestrated One of the Most Dramatic Accounts in the Bible One of the most dramatic accounts in the Bible is the story of Joseph’s interactions with his brothers, described in the Torah portions of Miketz and Vayigash.During the famine, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt to buy food, unaware that the powerful viceroy they were speaking to was their long-lost brother. Joseph tested their character, arranging a series of events—including falsely accusing Benjamin of theft—to see if they had truly changed. When they showed loyalty and self-sacrifice for Benjamin, Joseph revealed his identity in an emotional reunion.23Read: Why Didn’t Joseph Notify Jacob That He Was Alive?14. He Didn’t See His Father for 22 Years Joseph was separated from Jacob for 22 years—1 year in Potiphar’s home, 12 years in prison, and 9 as viceroy—before they were finally reunited. Remarkably, this echoes the 22 years Jacob spent away from his own father, Isaac, while working for Laban.24Read: 14 Facts About Jacob15. He Was a Model of Forgiveness When Joseph revealed his identity, his brothers feared he would seek revenge. Instead, Joseph forgave them, explaining that everything had been part of G‑d’s plan to save lives during the famine.25 Joseph’s story highlights the proper attitude toward hardships and the importance of forgiveness.26Read: Anger Management 10116. Some Say He Hid the Truth to Protect His Brothers According to one tradition, after reuniting with his brothers, Joseph asked Benjamin what their father had been told about his disappearance. Benjamin, who hadn’t been present at the sale, explained that the brothers had brought Joseph’s blood-stained coat to their father, leading him to believe a wild animal had killed him.27 To protect his brothers’ dignity, Joseph confirmed the story, saying, “That is exactly what happened. Strangers abducted me, and one of them took my coat. A lion attacked him and bloodied the coat, and the others sold me as a slave.” By concealing the truth, Joseph spared his brothers from shame.28Read: Is It Ever Permissible to Be Less Than Honest?17. He Developed a New Economic System During the famine, Joseph implemented a system to manage Egypt’s resources and ensure survival. In exchange for food, Egyptian civilians gave their private land to Pharaoh, effectively making him the sole landowner. Joseph then established a long-lasting arrangement: farmers worked the land and gave one-fifth of their produce to Pharaoh, keeping four-fifths for themselves. The priests were the only exception, as they received a royal stipend and retained their land.29 According to one tradition, Joseph showed them this favor in gratitude for their role in sparing him from the death penalty when he was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife.3018. He Was the Longest-Reigning Jewish Ruler Joseph ruled Egypt for 80 years, from age 30 until his death at 110,31 making him the longest-reigning Jewish ruler in history.3219. He Received Firstborn Rights Although Joseph wasn’t Jacob’s firstborn, he received special firstborn rights. His two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, were elevated to the status of full tribes, inheriting land in Israel just like Jacob’s own sons.33Read: Ephraim and Menasseh, Survive and Thrive20. He Is Buried in Shechem Before his death, Joseph made his family promise to transport his remains to the Promised Land.34 During the Exodus, Moses located Joseph’s bones and took them out of Egypt,35 and he was eventually buried in Shechem (Nablus).36 Unfortunately, while his tomb remains there to this day, it has been desecrated by the local population and is largely inaccessible.Read: 12 Facts About Shechem21. Yosef Is a Popular Jewish Name Tuesday, January 7 Saint of the Day: St. Raymond of Peñafort Patron Saint of Canon LawyersSaint Raymond de Peñafort, Tommaso Dolabella, 1627facebook twitter-x email nativeDominican Priest (1175-1275)His life+ Raymond was born near Catalonia, Spain, and was so bright that he was teaching philosophy in Barcelona when he was only twenty-years old. Asking for now payment, he was fully dedicated to the formation of his students.+ After he earned doctoral degrees in canon and civil law, he was made a canon, archdeacon, and vicar-general of his diocese.+ In 1222, he entered the Dominican Order and he committed himself to working for the conversion of Muslims and Jews.+ Recognizing his natural gifts and education, Pope Gregory IX summoned him to Rome and appointed him Auditor of the Apostolic Palace, Penitentiary, and Confessor to His Holiness.+ In 1238, Raymond was elected General of the Dominican Order and is credited with codifying the Order’s constitutions.+ Saint Raymond died in 1275 and was canonized in 1601. He is honored as the patron saint of canon lawyers.For prayer and reflection“May the God of love and peace set your hearts at rest and speed you on your journey; may he meanwhile shelter you from disturbance by others in the hidden recesses of his love, until he brings you at last into that place of complete plenitude where you will repose for ever in the vision of peace, in the security of trust and in the restful enjoyment of his riches.”—Saint Raymond of PeñafortSpiritual bonusOn this day, the Church also honors the memory of Blessed Marie Therese Haze, the foundress of the Sisters of the Cross of Liège (now known as the Daughters of the Cross. Known for her love of the poor and those most in need, Blessed Marie Therese died in 1876 and was beatified in 1991.PrayerO God, who adorned the Priest Saint Raymond with the virtue of outstanding mercy and compassion for sinners and for captives, grant us, through his intercession, that, released from slavery to sin, we may carry out in freedom of spirit what is pleasing to you. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.(from The Roman Missal)SM

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Tomislav Antić - Svjedočanstvo   ☩JMT☩@SecretFire79SEX BEFORE MARRIAGE IS WRONG: A Catholic Perspective The Catholic Church's teaching on sexuality is rooted in profound theological, moral, and anthropological truths. Far from rejecting the beauty of human sexuality, the Church celebrates it as a sacred gift designed to unite a husband and wife in mutual self-giving and to bring forth new life. The following in-depth discussion unpacks the key points presented above, contextualizing them for today’s generation. Why Does the Church Teach That Sex Before Marriage is Wrong? The Sacredness of Sex The Church’s teachings affirm that sex is not a bad or dirty thing but rather a holy and beautiful gift. This belief is grounded in the Bible, where sexuality is celebrated, such as in the Song of Songs, a poetic exaltation of love and intimacy. Pope St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body further emphasizes that sexuality, when expressed in accordance with God’s plan, becomes a profound act of love and communion. Sex is sacred because it mirrors God’s love—free, total, faithful, and fruitful. In marriage, sex becomes an act of self-giving that unites spouses and participates in the divine act of creation. Outside the context of marriage, sex risks losing its sacred character, becoming transactional or self-serving rather than self-giving. --- The Covenant of Marriage The Bible defines marriage as the union where "two become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). This union involves not only physical intimacy but also a lifelong covenant of mutual fidelity and support. The Church teaches that the act of sex consummates and seals this covenant. Engaging in sexual intimacy outside marriage undermines this covenantal understanding of sex. It divorces the physical act from its deeper spiritual and relational meanings, reducing it to a fleeting pleasure rather than an expression of lifelong commitment. --- The Dangers of Premarital Sex 1. Emotional and Spiritual Harm: Premarital sex often leads to feelings of abandonment, guilt, and emotional pain, especially when the relationship ends. The emotional bond created by sex, designed to be lifelong, becomes a source of hurt when broken. This pain is amplified because sex involves the whole person—body, mind, and soul. 2. Objectification: When sex occurs outside marriage, it risks becoming a self-centered act where one person uses another for physical or emotional gratification. This contradicts the Catholic call to love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31), treating them as ends, not means. 3. Societal Consequences: The normalization of casual sex contributes to broader societal issues, including broken families, rising rates of sexually transmitted diseases, and a culture that devalues commitment and fidelity. --- How Much Physical Intimacy is Too Much? The Church acknowledges that physical affection is a natural part of romantic relationships. However, such expressions should reflect chastity and respect for the dignity of both individuals. Guidelines for Physical Intimacy: Affectionate Gestures: Holding hands, hugging, and brief kisses are generally appropriate. Avoid Sexual Arousal: Any action that involves genital contact, intense sexual passion (e.g., French kissing), or leads to orgasm is considered inappropriate outside marriage. Guarding Against Near Occasions of Sin: Couples should avoid situations (like being alone in private settings) that could lead to temptation. The goal is to cultivate a relationship based on respect, friendship, and shared faith, preparing for a possible future marriage without compromising chastity. --- What if I've Already Had Sex Before Marriage? God’s Mercy is Greater Than Any Sin The Church teaches that no one is beyond God’s forgiveness. As sinners, we are all called to repentance and renewal. St. Augustine, one of the greatest Church Fathers, struggled with sexual sin before his conversion, yet he became a model of holiness and a doctor of the Church.

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(via Our Morning Offering – 28 November – Suscipe By St Ignatius Loyola)

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Life is Worth Living | Episode 112 | The True Meaning of Christmas | Ful...

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Vlč. Dražen Radigović - Kako se boriti s razočaranjem,depresijom i tjesk...  Should Islam be outlawed as a mental illness across the west? https://pic.x.com/b6W7KZttZL YES like in china india and russia ! Vlč. Dražen Radigović - Kako se boriti s razočaranjem,depresijom i tjesk... https://youtu.be/Olz36CcoLw0?si=hRycwAIIjRz0n2BF via @YouTube

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You can sin against the Holy Spirit. #shorts #billygraham #joy

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Owe Thörnqvist Sverigebesöket (KS-Studio).wmv

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samo lucija3m ago

många dör ensamma och sjuka blockerade av sina egna barn och barnbarn i mitt hus 3 stycken gammla och sjuka borde ha uppsökande voluntärer i kyrkan som kan ge det sjukas smörjelse ? Forwarded this email? Subscribe here for more

Full of Grace! A Reflection on this Friday’s Gospel, Luke 1:26-38 – 20 December 2024 Deacon Mark Mueller Dec 20

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Sadly, many Christians greet others in this Advent season with, “Happy Holidays,” as a way not to offend. Yet 25 December is a holiday, not in spite of Christ but, precisely because of Christ. Rejoice! In the incarnation, God entering human flesh to redeem us, whatever Christ had by nature we now have by grace.

Have we lost the intense joy of the incarnation? It is life-giving, not just in the lives of believers, but for the whole world. It is a joy that should echo across time. From the moment the Angel Gabriel gave voice to the words, “Hail, full of grace” (Luke 1:28 DRB) God is accomplishing our salvation. Thank you, Mary, and Merry Christmas indeed.

Despite an at times ho-hum response, the incarnation changed the world. Because of the incarnation, the Angels recognize the Sacramental Grace that fills each of us. Filled with grace, like the blessed Virgin Mary, will each of us say “yes” to God’s will? Will we give birth to Jesus in the approaching Christmas season? That is our task!

Throughout the Middle Ages in northern Europe, the Church called today’s Mass the “Golden Mass.” In the Liturgy, the Gospel was acted out in parts, much the same way that the passion is proclaimed on Good Friday. It was a Solemn High Mass, often lasting three or four hours with music and preaching to give full sway to the joy of the mystery proclaimed at the Annunciation. (O’Brien 7) The “Golden Mass” would often include the giving of letters to Mass participants written with gold leaf announcing the incarnation. What a beautiful reminder of the precious words Gabriel gave to Mary, and she accepted with her Fiat. (Luke 1:38)

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The Church proclaims in the Gospel today, the words of the Angel Gabriel as St Jerome translated them, “Hail, full of grace!” This is despite the more literal translation of, “Hail, favored one” found in many translations of the Bible. This literal translation loses the full significance of Gabriel’s words. The Greek, charitŏō (χαριτόω), means gifted or graced with “super-high” favor. Unfortunately, modern language translations do not do the Greek justice. That is why St. Jerome rightly uses “gratia plena,” “full of grace,” to capture the full meaning of the Angels’ greeting.

Imagine the effect the words of the Annunciation must have had on Mary; “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” The words state a fact. God’s grace is preexistent in Mary. The angel does not say you will be filled with grace as an event that lies in the future, that through the gift of God in Mary’s womb, she “will be” somehow sanctified. Grace is already present in Mary. Nor does the angel say you are touched by grace, as if Mary’s significance is found only in the gift of the Christ Child, but that she is already “full” of Grace. God’s gift of His divine life already filled Mary’s every fiber. Grace precedes and is full. God never does anything in a small way.

Mary, God’s perfect vessel, with her “yes” gave the world Jesus, our Savior, our Redeemer, our Way, our Truth, our Life. The incarnation is the greatest event in human history and at that moment, only Mary knew it had even happened. The Messiah has arrived, fully God and fully man to save the world. It is truly the first act of His passion. Love comes down. That is what the “Golden Mass” so beautifully celebrated. God comes to Mary, a vessel specially prepared, and at her “yes” fills her with His divinity.

Just five days before Christmas, the Angel Gabriel comes to us as well in the Gospel. What will you say? Mass makes present the grace of the mysteries it celebrates. We do not just remember an event, we experience it. Through the Word proclaimed today, God makes a proposal to you and I in the same way He offered Mary an invitation. Through the Sacraments we too are vessels specially prepared that God may dwell in us, filling us with grace. He comes to us in seeming obscurity, as He came to Mary, with an offer to participate in the great story of salvation. Will you reply, “yes, come Lord Jesus?” If so, the Kingdom of God is just a little closer such that we celebrate not just, “the Holidays,” but Christ’s Mass. God has come, is here, and will come again.

Mother Mary help us to accept the invitation God sends us. Help us to respond just as you did, with your joyful “yes!” “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you!” Come our Christmas!

Learning to listen to him “Zechariah was overwhelmed, and fear seized him. The angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been answered: your wife Elizabeth will give birth to a son for you”. (Lk 1, 12)

“Ah, the Lord is so good to me that it is impossible for me to fear Him, always He has given me what I have desired, or rather He has made me desire what He wanted to give me.” (Ms C 31)

I’m taking the time today to listen to the deepest desires of my heart, and I’m asking Jesus for them this Christmas.

Our Father Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen

Advent 2024: With the Little Flower

Day 20 – “Behold the handmaid of the Lord” “Then Mary said: ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word'” (Lk 1:38).

“Oh, I love you, Mary, calling yourself the handmaid of the God you redeem through your humility. This hidden virtue makes you all-powerful, drawing the Holy Trinity into your heart. Then the Spirit of Love covering you with his shadow, the Son equal to the Father in you became incarnate…” (Pn 54, 4)

I seize the opportunity to be of service to my fellow man in a selfless gesture of brotherhood.

Our Father Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen

JESAJA 48 Israels tidigare trolöshet 1Hör detta, Jakobs ätt, ni som bär namnet Israel och härstammar från Juda, ni som svär vid Herrens namn och prisar Israels Gud, men utan ärlighet och trohet. 2De uppkallar sig efter den heliga staden och stöder sig på Israels Gud, vars namn är Herren Sebaot. 3Det som en gång hände hade jag förutsagt, jag förkunnade det och gav det till känna. Plötsligt handlade jag, och det skedde. 4Jag vet att du är hård, din nacke av järn, din panna av brons. 5Därför förutsade jag det, förkunnade det innan det skedde, för att du inte skulle säga: »Det var min gudabild som gjorde det, mitt gjutna beläte som befallde det.« 6Här ser du allt detta som du har hört. Berätta nu om det! Nu förkunnar jag något nytt för dig, något förborgat som du inte känner till. 7Det skapades just nu, inte för länge sedan, du har inte hört om det förrän i dag, för att du inte skulle säga: »Det visste jag.« 8Du fick inget höra, inget veta, inget blev yppat för dig i förväg. Jag vet ju att du är trolös, du heter avfälling alltsedan du föddes. 9För mitt namns skull behärskar jag min vrede, för min äras skull har jag tålamod med dig och utplånar dig inte. 10Jag har smält dig, men inte för att få silver, prövat dig i lidandets ugn. 11För min skull, för min egen skull handlar jag — mitt namn skall inte vanhelgas. Jag delar inte min ära med någon. Herren har tagit Kyros i sin tjänst 12Hör på mig, Jakob, Israel, som jag har kallat! Jag är Gud, jag är den förste och jag är den siste. 13Min hand lade jordens grund, min högra hand spände ut himlen. När jag kallade på dem stod de där. 14Samlas nu alla och lyssna! Vem av de andra förkunnade detta, att den som Herren älskar skall utföra det han vill mot Babylon och Kaldeens folk? 15Jag, jag sade det, jag kallade honom, jag sände honom och gav honom framgång. 16Kom hit till mig och hör detta: Sedan allt började har jag talat öppet, när något skedde fanns jag där. Nu har Herren Gud sänt mig, och hans ande … Israels lydnad och lycka 17Så säger Herren, din befriare, Israels Helige: Jag är Herren, din Gud, som ger dig nyttig undervisning och leder dig den väg du skall gå. 18Om du ändå lydde mina bud! Då skulle din lycka bli som en flod, som havets vågor din framgång. 19Din avkomma skulle bli som sanden, dina ättlingar som sandkornen. Ditt namn skulle inte utplånas utan alltid stå inför mig. Hem från Babylon 20Lämna Babylon, fly från Kaldeen! Berätta det med jubel, förkunna det och låt det bli känt över hela jorden att Herren har befriat sin tjänare Jakob. 21De behövde inte törsta när han förde dem genom ödemarken. Han lät vatten flöda ur klippan, han klöv klippan, så att vatten strömmade fram. 22De gudlösa får aldrig någon lycka, säger Herren. https://www.tiktok.com/@frastjepanbrcina/video/7325815947074309409?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7097701788233860614

https://www.tiktok.com/@glorious_is_god/video/7425313485535382826

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Full of Grace! A Reflection on this Friday’s Gospel, Luke 1:26-38 – 20 December 2024 Deacon Mark Mueller Dec 20

READ IN APP

Sadly, many Christians greet others in this Advent season with, “Happy Holidays,” as a way not to offend. Yet 25 December is a holiday, not in spite of Christ but, precisely because of Christ. Rejoice! In the incarnation, God entering human flesh to redeem us, whatever Christ had by nature we now have by grace.

Have we lost the intense joy of the incarnation? It is life-giving, not just in the lives of believers, but for the whole world. It is a joy that should echo across time. From the moment the Angel Gabriel gave voice to the words, “Hail, full of grace” (Luke 1:28 DRB) God is accomplishing our salvation. Thank you, Mary, and Merry Christmas indeed.

Despite an at times ho-hum response, the incarnation changed the world. Because of the incarnation, the Angels recognize the Sacramental Grace that fills each of us. Filled with grace, like the blessed Virgin Mary, will each of us say “yes” to God’s will? Will we give birth to Jesus in the approaching Christmas season? That is our task!

Throughout the Middle Ages in northern Europe, the Church called today’s Mass the “Golden Mass.” In the Liturgy, the Gospel was acted out in parts, much the same way that the passion is proclaimed on Good Friday. It was a Solemn High Mass, often lasting three or four hours with music and preaching to give full sway to the joy of the mystery proclaimed at the Annunciation. (O’Brien 7) The “Golden Mass” would often include the giving of letters to Mass participants written with gold leaf announcing the incarnation. What a beautiful reminder of the precious words Gabriel gave to Mary, and she accepted with her Fiat. (Luke 1:38)

Missio Dei is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Upgrade to paid

The Church proclaims in the Gospel today, the words of the Angel Gabriel as St Jerome translated them, “Hail, full of grace!” This is despite the more literal translation of, “Hail, favored one” found in many translations of the Bible. This literal translation loses the full significance of Gabriel’s words. The Greek, charitŏō (χαριτόω), means gifted or graced with “super-high” favor. Unfortunately, modern language translations do not do the Greek justice. That is why St. Jerome rightly uses “gratia plena,” “full of grace,” to capture the full meaning of the Angels’ greeting.

Imagine the effect the words of the Annunciation must have had on Mary; “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” The words state a fact. God’s grace is preexistent in Mary. The angel does not say you will be filled with grace as an event that lies in the future, that through the gift of God in Mary’s womb, she “will be” somehow sanctified. Grace is already present in Mary. Nor does the angel say you are touched by grace, as if Mary’s significance is found only in the gift of the Christ Child, but that she is already “full” of Grace. God’s gift of His divine life already filled Mary’s every fiber. Grace precedes and is full. God never does anything in a small way.

Mary, God’s perfect vessel, with her “yes” gave the world Jesus, our Savior, our Redeemer, our Way, our Truth, our Life. The incarnation is the greatest event in human history and at that moment, only Mary knew it had even happened. The Messiah has arrived, fully God and fully man to save the world. It is truly the first act of His passion. Love comes down. That is what the “Golden Mass” so beautifully celebrated. God comes to Mary, a vessel specially prepared, and at her “yes” fills her with His divinity.

Just five days before Christmas, the Angel Gabriel comes to us as well in the Gospel. What will you say? Mass makes present the grace of the mysteries it celebrates. We do not just remember an event, we experience it. Through the Word proclaimed today, God makes a proposal to you and I in the same way He offered Mary an invitation. Through the Sacraments we too are vessels specially prepared that God may dwell in us, filling us with grace. He comes to us in seeming obscurity, as He came to Mary, with an offer to participate in the great story of salvation. Will you reply, “yes, come Lord Jesus?” If so, the Kingdom of God is just a little closer such that we celebrate not just, “the Holidays,” but Christ’s Mass. God has come, is here, and will come again.

Mother Mary help us to accept the invitation God sends us. Help us to respond just as you did, with your joyful “yes!” “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you!” Come our Christmas!

Learning to listen to him “Zechariah was overwhelmed, and fear seized him. The angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been answered: your wife Elizabeth will give birth to a son for you”. (Lk 1, 12)

“Ah, the Lord is so good to me that it is impossible for me to fear Him, always He has given me what I have desired, or rather He has made me desire what He wanted to give me.” (Ms C 31)

I’m taking the time today to listen to the deepest desires of my heart, and I’m asking Jesus for them this Christmas.

Our Father Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen

Advent 2024: With the Little Flower

Day 20 – “Behold the handmaid of the Lord” “Then Mary said: ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word'” (Lk 1:38).

“Oh, I love you, Mary, calling yourself the handmaid of the God you redeem through your humility. This hidden virtue makes you all-powerful, drawing the Holy Trinity into your heart. Then the Spirit of Love covering you with his shadow, the Son equal to the Father in you became incarnate…” (Pn 54, 4)

I seize the opportunity to be of service to my fellow man in a selfless gesture of brotherhood.

Our Father Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen

JESAJA 48 Israels tidigare trolöshet 1Hör detta, Jakobs ätt, ni som bär namnet Israel och härstammar från Juda, ni som svär vid Herrens namn och prisar Israels Gud, men utan ärlighet och trohet. 2De uppkallar sig efter den heliga staden och stöder sig på Israels Gud, vars namn är Herren Sebaot. 3Det som en gång hände hade jag förutsagt, jag förkunnade det och gav det till känna. Plötsligt handlade jag, och det skedde. 4Jag vet att du är hård, din nacke av järn, din panna av brons. 5Därför förutsade jag det, förkunnade det innan det skedde, för att du inte skulle säga: »Det var min gudabild som gjorde det, mitt gjutna beläte som befallde det.« 6Här ser du allt detta som du har hört. Berätta nu om det! Nu förkunnar jag något nytt för dig, något förborgat som du inte känner till. 7Det skapades just nu, inte för länge sedan, du har inte hört om det förrän i dag, för att du inte skulle säga: »Det visste jag.« 8Du fick inget höra, inget veta, inget blev yppat för dig i förväg. Jag vet ju att du är trolös, du heter avfälling alltsedan du föddes. 9För mitt namns skull behärskar jag min vrede, för min äras skull har jag tålamod med dig och utplånar dig inte. 10Jag har smält dig, men inte för att få silver, prövat dig i lidandets ugn. 11För min skull, för min egen skull handlar jag — mitt namn skall inte vanhelgas. Jag delar inte min ära med någon. Herren har tagit Kyros i sin tjänst 12Hör på mig, Jakob, Israel, som jag har kallat! Jag är Gud, jag är den förste och jag är den siste. 13Min hand lade jordens grund, min högra hand spände ut himlen. När jag kallade på dem stod de där. 14Samlas nu alla och lyssna! Vem av de andra förkunnade detta, att den som Herren älskar skall utföra det han vill mot Babylon och Kaldeens folk? 15Jag, jag sade det, jag kallade honom, jag sände honom och gav honom framgång. 16Kom hit till mig och hör detta: Sedan allt började har jag talat öppet, när något skedde fanns jag där. Nu har Herren Gud sänt mig, och hans ande … Israels lydnad och lycka 17Så säger Herren, din befriare, Israels Helige: Jag är Herren, din Gud, som ger dig nyttig undervisning och leder dig den väg du skall gå. 18Om du ändå lydde mina bud! Då skulle din lycka bli som en flod, som havets vågor din framgång. 19Din avkomma skulle bli som sanden, dina ättlingar som sandkornen. Ditt namn skulle inte utplånas utan alltid stå inför mig. Hem från Babylon 20Lämna Babylon, fly från Kaldeen! Berätta det med jubel, förkunna det och låt det bli känt över hela jorden att Herren har befriat sin tjänare Jakob. 21De behövde inte törsta när han förde dem genom ödemarken. Han lät vatten flöda ur klippan, han klöv klippan, så att vatten strömmade fram. 22De gudlösa får aldrig någon lycka, säger Herren. https://www.tiktok.com/@frastjepanbrcina/video/7325815947074309409?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7097701788233860614

https://www.tiktok.com/@glorious_is_god/video/7425313485535382826

https://youtu.be/drXDFQaok1U?si=PXqGH-HWGJ7y12xM

https://x.com/27Tawnyowl/status/1870059145119899755

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A school in Germany forces its German students to learn and listen to Islamic prayer. Isn't this a project to Islamize the West?

https://x.com/Salwan_Momika1/status/1869722998628057596

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C. S. Lewis - X-mas and Christmas   Today is the Feast of Our Lady of Loreto, which commemorates the miraculous translation of the Holy House, the home of the Holy Family, brought by angels from Nazareth to the Italian town of Loreto, via the Dalmatian coast.Gloriosæ Virginis in Laureto, Ora pro nobis https://pic.x.com/4XVLUD1CDYYou should know this as a Catholic https://pic.x.com/w754AWQNX9he Holy House of Loreto, Mary's childhood home, miraculously moved from the Middle East to Italy.   https://pic.x.com/dlQqnbYXYhhttps://x.com/poperespecter1/status/1866179616827961533https://youtu.be/ofErKXc4xps?si=g-CPIrSMYqIqcGcOForwarded this email? Subscribe here for moreEnough With Santa-Claus-Christmas: We Cannot Serve Two MastersStuart WeissDec 10READ IN APPNo one can serve two masters;for either he will hate the one and love the other,or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.—Matthew 6:24C.S. Lewis wrote a very clever, satirical, and poignant essay about the difference between what he calls “Xmas” and “Christmas.” In his essay, the secular celebration of Christmas is “Xmas” and the Christian celebration of the Solemnity of the Nativity he calls “Christmas.” The point of his essay is that, even in his time, Xmas had devolved to become so different from the religious Christian celebration of Christmas that they were now essentially two completely distinct holidays—even though they continued to be celebrated on the same day. Things have only gotten worse (much worse) since he published it in 1954.ShareSeventy years later, we find ourselves in a sticky, yet sadly familiar, situation. We know there’s something lacking (to say the least) in the way that we’re celebrating Christmas today, but it is all we’ve ever known. Compounding that problem is the fact that we’re also more isolated from community than ever, so it’s difficult to establish or revive counter-cultural traditions when we feel like we are the only ones doing it. Is it worth it to rock the boat if we’re the only ones trying? Are we even doing the right thing by trying, or are we just being an uncharitable nuisance?If you have ever asked yourself those questions, then my full-throated response is yes, it is worth it and no, you are not the only one trying. I am seeing more and more families every year putting in hard work to swim against the strong current of the secular culture in order to devoutly celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity. I am writing this post to encourage anyone who knows that there is a better way to give glory to God, and is desirous to move in that direction.What’s so wrong about Santa-Claus-Christmas?Take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare.—Luke 21:34The chief harm of Santa-Claus-Christmas (the secular version of Christmas, which Lewis calls ‘Xmas’) is not so much that there is anything intrinsically bad about any one aspect of it, but rather that, taken together, the rituals, traditions, and excitement of Santa-Claus-Christmas distract us from the very thing we are supposed to be preparing for: the coming of Christ. What is supposed to be one of the two principal feasts of our Religion has become so muddled with secular traditions that it retains almost zero formative or devotional value for either ourselves or for our children.Santa-Claus-Christmas is a religious season of its own that effectively begins the day after Thanksgiving, ramps up from there with Christmas music, parties, and festivities, and then abruptly ends on December 25th. Some of the religious rituals that characterize this secular feast include:

Offerings of butter, wheat, sugar, cocoa, and dairy (generally combined in some fashion to produce “Cookies” and “Milk”) are left out for the mysterious man from the North, should he visit the house.Sacred Garments of Ugly Sweaters and novelty Reindeer Antlers are donned.Formative movies are watched, such as The Grinch, Home Alone, and Alvin and the Chipmunks. No, I didn’t just pick the least religious ones I could find. Those happen to be the three highest grossing Christmas movies of all time. Honestly, the list just gets worse from there.Sacred hymns are enjoyed. The most popular hymns proper to this season generally have nothing at all to do with the Solemnity of the Nativity. Just think of some of the most common ones you hear: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells, Baby, it’s Cold Outside, and All I want for Christmas is You, to name a few. Don’t believe me? Check out the list of the top 10 most streamed Christmas songs of all time on Spotify. None of them are remotely religious.Judgement is rendered in the form of the “Naughty” or “Nice” list. True to secular culture, everyone is on the “Nice” list since it has nothing to do with actual vice or virtue. Well, everyone except those who boast that they are on the “Naughty” list to advertise their sexual immorality.I don’t deny that vestiges of the Christian roots from which Santa-Claus-Christmas evolved still exist. For example, some songs still mention Jesus, you still see an occasional Nativity set, and the Jolly Old Man from the North Pole supposedly has some religious origin story. But these vestigial organs exist in the same way that wings do on an ostrich: they have become so weak as to be entirely useless. The traces of Christianity left in Santa-Claus-Christmas have no more power to form the souls of ourselves or our children into the image of Christ than the wings of an ostrich have to produce flight.Speaking of vestiges of the Solemnity of Christmas present in Santa-Claus-Christmas, allow me a moment to make a controversial assertion: Santa Claus is NOT Saint Nicholas.There, I said it! Yes, the figure that is Santa Claus originated from the real Saint Nicholas, but Santa Claus, like the version of Christmas he represents, has devolved so much from his original source as to become a different thing entirely.Think about it. Santa Claus is married, St. Nicholas is a celibate Bishop. Santa lives at the North pole, St. Nicholas is lives in Heaven. Santa gives coal or frivolous toys to children, St. Nicholas sacrifices his fortune to the poor. Santa wears a red furry snow suit and boots, St. Nicholas wears priestly vestments and a Bishops miter. Santa flies in a sled with reindeer, and eats cookies and milk, St. Nicholas—there’s not even a parallel to compare that to! How can we honestly say that “Santa Claus is Saint Nicholas” in any meaningful way? Even more importantly, how does this figure point us to Christ or stir up devotion to Him in any way? We can make all the esoteric connections we want between Santa and St. Nicholas (and then to Christ, the actual subject of the Solemnity), but no child is going to make that connection, and if it is not forming our children then what is the point?The excitement from Santa Claus is not harmless: it usurps the central role that Christ should, obviously, occupy in the celebration of Christmas. There’s no way around it: if you tell your kids that a magical man is going to come to your house and fill it with presents, then continually bring up this idea in the lead up to Christmas, combined with all the decorations from the neighborhood and Santa Claus themed shows they may watch, how could they possibly be expected to have any mental space left to develop a devotion to the infant Christ, or begin learning to long for His Return in glory? That’s like plopping them in front of a screen and hoping they’ll somehow learn to read by just watching movies, because there are credits at the end.Not only that, but for children Santa-Claus-Christmas always ultimately ends with disappointment and disillusionment. You encourage your child to be devoted to Santa Claus, and they grow up to find out it was all fake. The myths they grew to love were really just told to make them happy and excited for the season—almost like the opium of the masses, if you will. The Solemnity of the Nativity, on the other hand, admits of no such disappointment. On the contrary, if you devoutly celebrate the Nativity, then you grow up to find out it was all even more real and mystical than you had even imagined, and you can continue to go deeper into the joys of that mystery for the rest of time and eternity. The flurry of excitement from Santa and the other secular festivities throughout Santa-Claus-Christmas distract us from what Christians ought to be doing at this time, which is preparing for the coming of Christ.Every year Advent always starts with the same theme: “Watch! For you do not know when the Son of Man is coming! Do not get distracted by the cares of this world!” The holy season of Advent is a time of preparation, not just for the coming of Christ in the Nativity, but also for the coming of Christ at the end of time, when He will return to Judge the living and the dead. Yet during the time when we should be most detached from worldly pursuits, Santa-Claus-Christmas bids us to do just the opposite and begin the celebration.Advent has been totally usurped by the early celebration of Santa-Claus-Christmas. We have become so accustomed to this travesty that we are no longer scandalized by it. Advent is a season of penance and preparation for the Coming of Christ. It is one of only two seasons of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, with Lent being the other one. Can you imagine if the secular celebration of the Easter Bunny became so prevalent and amusing that it completely eclipsed Lent? What if most Christians suddenly began celebrating Easter in March and completely neglected Lent? That is exactly what has happened with Advent. Instead of spending more time in prayer and sacrifice in preparation for Christ’s return, we do exactly what He warned us not to: we spend it absorbed in the cares of this life and in carousing and drunkenness at “Christmas Parties.” Then, because we have been celebrating with the music, decorations, food, and parties for a month already by the time Christmas Day rolls around, the celebration is effectively over after December 25th—the day that it should just be starting!There is something very prophetic about the modern celebration of Santa-Claus-Christmas. Christmas is symbolic of not only Christ’s Nativity, but also His Second Coming. In that light, the secular celebration of Christmas and the Catholic celebration of Christmas are reflections of our worldviews and our ultimate destinies. In this case, let Advent be symbolic of our lives on Earth, Christmas day be Christ’s return (at our death or His Second Coming), and the much neglected Christmas season be symbolic of Eternity.Devotees of Santa-Claus-Christmas use all of Advent to eat, drink, and be merry. They replace the sacrifice of Advent with the jollity and excess of Santa-Claus-Christmas—it is “the most wonderful time of the year.” Their portion is in this life. Yet, after Christ comes on December 25th, the sadness begins. All the delight and rejoicing is over, disenchantment sets in, and there is nothing more to look forward to for the rest of Winter.Devotees of the Solemnity of the Nativity, however, use Advent as a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. They use it as a time to judge wisely the things of earth so that, even as they walk amid passing things, the Lord teaches them to love the things of Heaven.¹ Then, when December 25th arrives, the Feast is just beginning. Their reward is with Christ, and they do not start the celebration until the Bridegroom comes, nor are they quick to end it.We cannot serve two masters, we will inevitably love one and despise the other. Our culture has chosen that we should love and celebrate Santa-Claus-Christmas, but which way will you choose for your family? As for me and my house, we will celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity, and prepare to do so during the holy season of Advent.I’m still reading, now what?Lest you think that this post was co-authored by a certain Ebenezer Scrooge, let me reiterate that celebrating the Solemnity of the Nativity brings with it all the true joy and contentment that Santa-Claus-Christmas does, only more so (the Nativity is real, after all). As always, we lose nothing that we give to God—He always gives more than He takes. To give this cherished feast to God is, in the final analysis, to gain all and lose nothing. I am advocating for more joy, not less. Nevertheless, I acknowledge that it can be hard to imagine what Christmas might look like without Santa Claus when it is all many of us have ever known.If you’ve made it this far, and you’re still with me, then your next questions are probably along the lines of:

How do we practically reclaim Advent?How do we prolong and fully enjoy the celebration of Christmas?I have lots to share about both of those questions but (as much as I hate to do this to you), it deserves its own post. So, if you haven’t already, please be sure to subscribe for free so that you get notified when that one comes out in the coming week:SubscribedIn the meantime, it is not too late to choose practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving for this Advent, if you haven’t already! Start by committing to at least one practice in each of those categories, and encouraging your family to join you. Like I said, I’ll get into lots more specifics in my next post, but that is a great start.Before you go, please share this with someone you think might find it edifying:ShareOh, and don’t forget to enjoy this audio version of C.S. Lewis’ essay on Xmas and Christmas:You might also like:We Don't Celebrate Halloween. We Celebrate All Saints Day.Stuart Weiss·Oct 29Read full story Letter IX: Live the Liturgical YearStuart Weiss·Dec 3Read full story How to ACTUALLY Pray the Family Rosary With Young KidsStuart Weiss·Oct 24Read full story 1Taken from prayers after communion for the first Sunday in Advent.

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St. Catherine of Siena, pt. 1 – The Doctors of the Church w/ Dr. Matthew... HOMELESS AUTOR THOMAS MEYERPosted bysamo lucijaDecember 7, 2024Leave a commenton HOMELESS AUTOR THOMAS MEYEREditHOMELESS AUTOR THOMAS MEYER7.12 reblog suzanas pralierPosted bysamo lucija December 7, 2024 Leave a commenton 7.12 reblog suzanas pralier Edit7.12 reblog suzanas pralier(20) Catholic Arena on X: “In 2019, quick thinking and bravery by Father Fournier managed to save the Crown of Thorns in Notre Dame in Paris Fournier was ordained with Latin Mass FSSP. He also: – Served in Afghanistan with the army and survived an ambush – Rushed into the Bataclan massacre scene to https://t.co/29XoEiifxX” / X https://x.com/CatholicArena/status/1865457211591565702Maria Angela Grow @MariaAngelaGrowhttps://x.com/Deana_Croatia/status/1865146538445394189 · 3h Act of Reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary to be recited on the First Saturdays. . Most holy Virgin and our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of thy Immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns which ungrateful men place therein at every moment by their https://pic.x.com/WviG2jylCR Replying to @MariaAngelaGrow Do you believe Jesus Christ is present in the Blessed Sacrament! https://pic.x.com/D1K6EUufmJ Both children are currently in critical condition. WHY IS THIS NOT BIGGER NEWS?  https://pic.x.com/9v3EiG646X Replying to @CilComLFC https://x.com/TaylorRMarshall/status/1865420755887939588Our Walking through our Valley, Our Walking through the Fires; Finishing our struggle, Surrendering unto God. Psalm 51:10-17Thomas E Meyer Jr Thomas E Meyer JrLoving God, Living God, Loving Hope, Living Hope, Loving Living Life His Way! “Many things are possible for the person who has hope. Even more is possible for the person who has faith. And still more is possible for the person who knows how to love. But everything is possible for the person who practices all three virtues.” – Brother Lawrence (1605-1691), Practicing the Presence of God (1692). 161 subscribersSubscribe 4h ago bible jesus psalms Psalm 19 forgiveness 4+Psalm 51:10-17 Common English Bible10 Create a clean heart for me, God; put a new, faithful spirit deep inside me! 11 Please don’t throw me out of your presence; please don’t take your holy spirit away from me. 12 Return the joy of your salvation to me and sustain me with a willing spirit. 13 Then I will teach wrongdoers your ways, and sinners will come back to you.14 Deliver me from violence, God, God of my salvation, so that my tongue can sing of your righteousness. 15 Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will proclaim your praise. 16 You don’t want sacrifices. If I gave an entirely burned offering, you wouldn’t be pleased. 17 A broken spirit is my sacrifice, God.[a] You won’t despise a heart, God, that is broken and crushed.The Word of God for the Children of God.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen.Our Continually Struggling to Surrender to God Psalm 51 was written by King David after he committed the sin of adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed to cover his sin (2 Samuel 11).It has been said of David that he sinned big, but repented bigger.But only after he was ‘publicly’ caught by Nathan in David’s throne room. One has to wonder how this scripture would read if Nathan never confronts David.But God, who sees everything no matter how hard or deep we try to hide our actions, was not blind to David’s severest of transgression – his Capital Crime.God sent Nathan to David’s throne room and fortunately so – lest the wrath of God be meted out without any scriptural announcements – a bolt of lightning strikes David on his throne with no witnesses to testify or witness the event.David is consigned to a violent death and we probably do not have a lineage that would have been steadfastly honorable, or noteworthy to proclaim as Psalm 51.Let us shout “Thanks Be to God” for sending Nathan with God’s message of life!Because now generations of men, women and children are blessed by Psalm 51.David became for us an inspiring, empowering model to us of what real heart felt repentance looks like. He mightily struggled with his sin, so much so that he took off his crown and regal regalia, and surrendered his throne which God granted to him and walked sullenly to the tabernacle to take a lonely seat before God His Judge for his righteous Judgment – keep the throne or be publicly tried.He had no promises that God would permit his return to the throne, he might well have done the same as he first did to Saul, to remove His Spirit from Him, essentially permanently remove His support, from which Saul never recovered.David understood the gravity of his crime against God and understood that God could do the same to his as Saul, and nothing short of absolute surrender would be acceptable sacrifice. Psalm 51 is David’s agonized cry to God for forgiveness.Psalm 51:17 says, “My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”The meaning of this is connected with Verse 16 says, “You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.”David is stating that there is nothing we can offer God to appease Him when we have sinned. When we have strived more mightily to stay in control. More not superficial but well intentioned animal sacrifices were not what God was going to be looking for nor even .00001% accept as our God desires true repentance.Many people miss this truth. Rather than repent, they try to rush in with their superficial “clean up their act,” give more, pray more, or busy themselves in other religious activity in hopes God will finally “get over” being mad at them.In Psalm 51, David is saying he knows that God wants none of that. External religious activity cannot replace internal, heartfelt contrition (1 Samuel 16:7).Psalm 51:17 points out the one and only thing God desires more than any other: brokenness over our own sin. When we agree with God about how bad our sin is, we take the first baby steps toward a sincere heartfelt reconciliation with Him.As long as we try to “pseudo-surrender” justify, excuse, or rationalize the evil of our own sin bent hearts, we will never find our way back into God’s presence.Something Jesus Himself made a point of declaring at the start of His Ministry;Mark 1:14-15 Amplified BibleJesus Preaches in Galilee 14 Now after John [the Baptist] was arrested and [a]taken into custody, Jesus went to Galilee, preaching the good news of [the kingdom of] God, 15 and saying, “The [appointed period of] time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life] and believe [with a deep, abiding trust] in the good news [regarding salvation].”Nothing less than 100% surrender and repentance is our doorway to freedom.Satan knows this better than us, does everything he can to detract us from it.He suggests things that our selfish nature likes to hear:“Your sin wasn’t that bad.” “Compared to others, you’re okay.” “God has forgotten it already. No need to confess it.”When we listen to the devil’s cunning oily words, we will veer away from the doorway to freedom and remain in bondage. We may feel remorse or regret, but neither is sufficient substitute for true repentance (Genesis 3, Hebrews 12:15-17).Hebrews 12:15-17 Amplified Bible15 See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; 16 and [see to it] that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. 17 For you know that later on, when he wanted [to regain title to] his inheritance of the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no opportunity for repentance [there was no way to repair what he had done, no chance to recall the choice he had made], even though he sought for it with [bitter] tears.David reminds us in Psalm 51 that the only path to forgiveness is a broken heart and a humble spirit (cf. Matthew 5:3).When we throw ourselves on the mercy of God, He delights to lift us up (Luke 18:13-14). When we openly acknowledge our sin against God, turn from it, and cry out for cleansing, God promises that He will hear us and forgive (1 John 1:9).It is interesting to note that, although David sinned against Bathsheba and her murdered husband, Uriah, David surrenders this stunning confession to God:“Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight” (Psalm 51:4).David gets straight to the heart of why God so hates sin. It is an abomination, a hardcore heart hardened willful malicious pre-meditated violation of His very nature. We are each created in that image, but our sin mars it (Genesis 3), like a giant smudge of blackest tar on a mirror. Our broken spirit, our contrite heart, invite God to clean that smudge and restore us to right relationship with Him.Now, Ponder long and hard the 100% authentic state of your “contrite” heart!Now, Ponder long and hard the words “utter surrender.” then “Before God!”Then … “prepare ye, prepare ye the way of the Lord, make your paths straight.”OMG … Stand still, Quit striving against Him, “What will God wrought now?”In the name of God, the Father and God the Son and God the Holy Spirit,Let us Pray,Psalm 139:23-24 Amplified Bible23 Search me [thoroughly], O God, (investigate my life) and know my heart; Test me and know my anxious thoughts; 24 And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.Psalm 19 Amplified BibleThe Works and the Word of God. To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. 19 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And the expanse [of heaven] is declaring the work of His hands. 2 Day after day pours forth speech, And night after night reveals knowledge. 3 There is no speech, nor are there [spoken] words [from the stars]; Their voice is not heard. 4 Yet their voice [in quiet evidence] has gone out through all the earth, Their words to the end of the world. In them and in the heavens He has made a tent for the sun, 5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber; It rejoices as a strong man to run his course. 6 The sun’s rising is from one end of the heavens, And its circuit to the other end of them; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.7 The law of the Lord is perfect (flawless), restoring and refreshing the soul; The statutes of the Lord are reliable and trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true, they are righteous altogether. 10 They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover, by them Your servant is warned [reminded, illuminated, and instructed]; In keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can understand his errors or omissions? Acquit me of hidden (unconscious, unintended) faults. 13 Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous (deliberate, willful) sins; Let them not rule and have control over me. Then I will be blameless (complete), And I shall be acquitted of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock and my Redeemer.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen, amen.https://translate.google.com/

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Rosemary Clooney - Mambo Italiano - 1954 originals https://x.com/Totvs_tuus51320/status/1861598132691235166

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Uvod - Fra Goran Azinović - Duhovna meditacija 1. VEM UTFÖR TROLLDOM PÅ IZRAEL OCH UKRAINA ? Visa/dölj inställningar för inlägg/kommentar 28.11 tors breviarPosted bysamo lucija November 28, 2024 Leave a commenton 28.11 tors breviar Edit28.11 tors breviar Massa avläsningar Vecka XXXIV under ordinarie tidTorsdag, 28/11/2024VardagligLÄSNING: Upp 18:1-2, 21-23; 19:1-3.9a; Ps 100:1b-5; Lukasevangeliet 21:20-28FÄRG PÅ DE LITURGISKA SKRUDARNA: grönNAMNSDAGAR: Jakov Markijski, Katarina Laboure, Sosten, DržislavFörsta läsningen:Upp 18:1–2, 21–23; 19.1-3.9aDet stora Babylon föll.Läsning av aposteln Johannes UppenbarelsebokJag, Johannes, såg en annan ängel komma ner från himlen med stor kraft. Hela jorden lystes upp av dess klarhet. Och han ropade med hög röst: “Det stora Babylon har fallit, hon är fallen — skökan – och det är de onda andarnas boning, alla orena andars boning, alla orena och förhatliga fåglars boning.” Och en stark ängel tog en sten, stor som en kvarnsten, och kastade den i havet och sade: »Babel, den stora staden, skall bliva så våldsamt förstörd, och hon skall aldrig mer finnas. Harpornas och sångarnas och musikanternas och trumpetarnas röst kommer inte längre att höras i er! En hantverkare som är skicklig på vilken färdighet som helst kommer inte längre att finnas i dig! Du kommer inte att höra slamret av slipstenen längre! Lampans ljus kommer inte längre att lysa i dig! Brudgummens och brudens röst kommer inte längre att höras i dig! Ty dina köpmän voro landets ädlingar, och din trolldom bedrog alla folk. Då hörde jag som en hög röst från en stor folkskara i himlen: “Halleluja! Frälsning och härlighet och makt åt vår Gud! Ty hans domar är sanna och rättvisa, ty han har fördömt den stora skökan, som har fördärvat landet med sin otukt och han har utkrävt sina tjänares blod på henne.” Och han upprepade: “Halleluja! Dess rök stiger i evigheters evighet!” Då sade ängeln till mig: “Skriv! Saliga är de som är inbjudna till Lammets bröllopsfest!” Herrens ord.Psalm i Sången:Ps 100, 1b-5Kör:Saliga är de som är inbjudna till Lammets gästabud!Ropa till Herren, hela jorden! Tjäna Herren i glädje! Kom inför hans ansikte med jubelrop!Ni skall veta att HERREN är Gud: han har skapat oss, och vi är hans, vi är hans folk och fåren på hans betesmark.Gå in med lovsång vid hans portar, in i hans palats med lovprisning; Prisa honom, välsigna hans namn.Ty Herren är god, hans kärlek är evig, från släkte till släkte hans trofasthet.Evangelium:Luk 21:20-28Jerusalem kommer att trampas ner av hedningarna tills hedningarnas tider är fullbordade.Läsning av LukasevangelietVid den tiden sade Jesus till sina lärjungar: “När ni ser att en armé belägrar Jerusalem, vet då att dess ödeläggelse är nära. Och de som nu äro i Judeen skola fly upp till bergen; Och de som äro i staden, de må lämna den; Men på fälten må de inte återvända till den, ty dessa är vedergällningens dagar, för att allt som är skrivet skall gå i uppfyllelse.” Ve de havande och ammande mödrarna i de dagarna, ty stor sorg och vrede kommer att vila över detta folk på jorden. De skola falla för svärdsegg, och de skola föras bort som fångar i alla folk. Och Jerusalem skall trampas ned av hedningarna, till dess hedningarnas tider äro till ända.« Och det skall finnas tecken i solen och i månen och i stjärnorna, och på jorden skall det råda hopplös ångest bland folken på grund av havets och vågornas brus. Människor kommer att andas ut av rädsla och förväntan på vad som hotar världen. Ja, himlens makter kommer att skakas. Då skall de få se Människosonen komma in i ett moln med stor makt och härlighet. När allt detta börjar hända, stå då upp och lyft upp era huvuden, för er förlossning närmar sig.” Herrens ord.Dessa avläsningar överförs från hilp.hrMest lästa I dagVeckaMåneINTRESSANT SVARMormor var orolig för att hennes barnbarn inte var döpt, skrev till påven, svarade han FRIMURERIFrimurare och katoliker: Vad kyrkan säger om medlemskap i frimurarloger MORGONBÖNDet bästa sättet att börja dagen: Be morgonbönen till den himmelske Fadern DAGBOKEN AV ST. FAUSTINE FAUSTINEJesus är den helige Faustina sa att de som tillber Guds barmhärtighet kommer att få dessa nådegåvor ÄNDRING I KANONISK LAGVatikanen planerar att kriminalisera “falsk mysticism”https://90d5a4605604b5e66873c459e9c08174.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html Den läser för närvarande NÄR VI BLIR MODFÄLLDABön i tider av nöd – Psaltaren 143 INTRESSANT SVARMormor var orolig för att hennes barnbarn inte var döpt, skrev till påven, svarade han UPPTECKNINGAR AV EN MORS HJÄRTAAnja Mihanović: Jag är rädd för troende som hellre ifrågasätter kyrkan än sig själva I TROGIRDet första “dalmatiska mötet” för katolska karismatiska förnyelsegemenskaper i den Helige Ande hölls MORGONBÖNDet bästa sättet att börja dagen: Be morgonbönen till den himmelske Fadern Först och främst måste du öva på allt du vill lära andra.– Sankt Bernardine av Siena (1380-1444)

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