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2 months ago
Monday, March 27, 2006
Prayer Request
For the next few days, I will be on retreat. Please pray for the fruitfulness of this time of desert. Be assured that I, in turn, will be praying for you. May God bless you and keep you in His loving care.
Pro-life Meditations for Stations of the Cross: The Fourteenth Station: Jesus is Laid in the Tomb
A tomb is a memorial. It helps us remember the one who can no longer speak. May we and our society remember the babies who cannot speak. May we also remember Our Lord's Resurrection, and His promise of eternal life. He has conquered abortion because He has conquered death. May we bring His victory to every part of our world!
LENTEN MEDITATION: FOURTH WEEK OF LENT
"I am about to create new heavens and a new earth: the things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead there shall always be rejoicing and happiness."
~ Isaiah 65
"The face of the world would be changed if everyone smiled more. So, smile! God loves you."
~ Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
~ Isaiah 65
"The face of the world would be changed if everyone smiled more. So, smile! God loves you."
~ Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
St. Rupert of Salzburg, Bishop and Missionary
St. Rupert was a member of a noble Frankish family. Rupert was a lover of the truth who was well-known for his simplicity and common sense. He was pious, charitable, and pure. As bishop of Worms, Germany, he was dedicated to spreading the faith among the Germans and suceeded in converting whole regions. He took over the deserted town of luvavum about 697, which was renamed Salzburg, Austria. Rupert founded St. Peter's Church and Abbey and the Nonnburg convent, where his sister served as the first abbess. He died on March 27, 718 at Salzburg and is venerated as the first archbishop of this major diocese in the West. Rupert is revered as the Apostle of Bavaria and Austria.
In Christian art, St. Rupert is depicted with a vessel of salt in his hand, symbolizing the universal tradition according to which Rupert inaugurated salt-mining at Salzburg. He is the Patron saint of salt miners and the Diocese of Salzburg.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Meditation for the Solemnity of the Annunciation of Our Lord
The Holy Ghost shall come down upon thee, Mary, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee.
-- Luke i.35
-- Luke i.35
Meditation for Today's Feast Day
Friday, March 24, 2006
It's Time to Face the Consequences Of Your Actions,Tiller: Grand Jury Petitions To Be Submitted April 7
Grassroots coalition is calling for a criminal investigation into the abortion death of a Texas teen.
Wichita, KS- Mar 24, 2006 Signatures demanding the convening of a Grand Jury to investigate George R. Tiller in the third-trimester abortion death of Christin Gilbert will be presented to Sedgwick County, KS after a Petition Presentation Ceremony that will be held at noon at the Sedgwick County Administration Building on Friday, April 7.
A grassroots Justice for Christin Coalition launched the petition effort on January 13, 2006, on the one- year anniversary of the death of Gilbert, a 19-year old Texas Down Syndrome girl, who died at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, after complications from a botched third-trimester abortion received at Tiller’s abortion mill were misdiagnosed. Coalition representative Cheryl Sullenger says that the group has gathered over three times the number of signatures required by law.“Because of interest in this effort to bring Christin’s killer to justice, the petition deadline has been extended to Monday, April 3,” said Sullenger. “The petitions will be presented to the County Clerk immediately following a brief ceremony on Friday, April 7.”
The State of Kansas allows citizens to convene a Grand Jury to investigate wrong-doing through a petition process. By law, the county will have 60 days after the required signatures are submitted to convene the Grand Jury."
“We were forced to take this route because we believe that political pandering to Tiller has thwarted his discipline through traditional channels,” said Sullenger.
The group maintains that Tiller’s large campaign contributions to pro-abortion politicians, including Democratic Governor Kathleen Sebelius, has bought Tiller cover with the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts, a Board whose Executive Director, Larry Buening, is a Sebelius appointee. The KSBHA refused to discipline Tiller for Christin Gilbert’s death in spite of an autopsy report that indicates Tiller was at fault and 911 documents that indicate his employee, Marguerite Reed, tried to cover up the true nature of Christin’s fatal condition.
“All we are asking is for an independent investigation into Christin’s death and attempted cover-up by people unassociated with Tiller politically, professionally, or socially,” said Sullenger. “We have yet to get that from any authority in the State of Kansas.”
More information about Christin Gilbert’s tragic death and the Grand Jury effort, including photos and public documents obtained by Operation Rescue investigators, can be found at http://justiceforc hristin.com.
Wichita, KS- Mar 24, 2006 Signatures demanding the convening of a Grand Jury to investigate George R. Tiller in the third-trimester abortion death of Christin Gilbert will be presented to Sedgwick County, KS after a Petition Presentation Ceremony that will be held at noon at the Sedgwick County Administration Building on Friday, April 7.
A grassroots Justice for Christin Coalition launched the petition effort on January 13, 2006, on the one- year anniversary of the death of Gilbert, a 19-year old Texas Down Syndrome girl, who died at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, after complications from a botched third-trimester abortion received at Tiller’s abortion mill were misdiagnosed. Coalition representative Cheryl Sullenger says that the group has gathered over three times the number of signatures required by law.“Because of interest in this effort to bring Christin’s killer to justice, the petition deadline has been extended to Monday, April 3,” said Sullenger. “The petitions will be presented to the County Clerk immediately following a brief ceremony on Friday, April 7.”
The State of Kansas allows citizens to convene a Grand Jury to investigate wrong-doing through a petition process. By law, the county will have 60 days after the required signatures are submitted to convene the Grand Jury."
“We were forced to take this route because we believe that political pandering to Tiller has thwarted his discipline through traditional channels,” said Sullenger.
The group maintains that Tiller’s large campaign contributions to pro-abortion politicians, including Democratic Governor Kathleen Sebelius, has bought Tiller cover with the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts, a Board whose Executive Director, Larry Buening, is a Sebelius appointee. The KSBHA refused to discipline Tiller for Christin Gilbert’s death in spite of an autopsy report that indicates Tiller was at fault and 911 documents that indicate his employee, Marguerite Reed, tried to cover up the true nature of Christin’s fatal condition.
“All we are asking is for an independent investigation into Christin’s death and attempted cover-up by people unassociated with Tiller politically, professionally, or socially,” said Sullenger. “We have yet to get that from any authority in the State of Kansas.”
More information about Christin Gilbert’s tragic death and the Grand Jury effort, including photos and public documents obtained by Operation Rescue investigators, can be found at http://justiceforc hristin.com.
Pro-life Meditations for Stations of the Cross: The Thirteenth Station: Jesus is Taken Down from the Cross
LENTEN MEDITATION: THIRD WEEK IN LENT -- FRIDAY
"To love Him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all bunrt offerings and sacrifices."
~ Mark 12
"I let God use me, in His way, a way that was unknown to me."
~Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
~ Mark 12
"I let God use me, in His way, a way that was unknown to me."
~Blessed Teresa of Calcutta
Most Current Lenten Reads
What have I been reading this Lent?
Quite a variety of books.
Here is a sample.
Daily Devotions:
The Liturgy of the Hours
Magnificat
The Magnificat Lenten Companion
My Lenten Daily Devotions
The Word Among Us
God is Love -- Lent /Easter 2006
Spiritual Reading
Six Ways to Pray from Six Great Saints -- Gloria Hutchinson
The Seven Last Words -- Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen
In My Own Words -- Mother Teresa's Reflections
Lives of the Saints
Model Communicant -- St. Peter Julian Eymard
Modern Saints -- Ann Ball
The Voice of the Saints -- Francis W. Johnston
The Bible
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Other
Mother Angelica -- Raymond Arroyo
Emily's Hope -- Ellen Gable
Also, the latest CD's have arrived from the monastery containing a 4 - part Lenten retreat, which I plan to start soon. I can hardly wait!
With the pilgrimage to Rome and the recent move to our new home, I haven't been able to read at my usual pace, but that's ok, God loves me just the same.
Quite a variety of books.
Here is a sample.
Daily Devotions:
The Liturgy of the Hours
Magnificat
The Magnificat Lenten Companion
My Lenten Daily Devotions
The Word Among Us
God is Love -- Lent /Easter 2006
Spiritual Reading
Six Ways to Pray from Six Great Saints -- Gloria Hutchinson
The Seven Last Words -- Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen
In My Own Words -- Mother Teresa's Reflections
Lives of the Saints
Model Communicant -- St. Peter Julian Eymard
Modern Saints -- Ann Ball
The Voice of the Saints -- Francis W. Johnston
The Bible
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Other
Mother Angelica -- Raymond Arroyo
Emily's Hope -- Ellen Gable
Also, the latest CD's have arrived from the monastery containing a 4 - part Lenten retreat, which I plan to start soon. I can hardly wait!
With the pilgrimage to Rome and the recent move to our new home, I haven't been able to read at my usual pace, but that's ok, God loves me just the same.
Saint of the Day: St. Catherine of Sweden, Patron Saint Against Abortion
St. Catherine of Sweden is the patron saint against abortion and miscarriages. She was born in 1331, the fourth of eight children, to Saint Bridget of Sweden and Ulf Gudmarsson.At the age of seven, Catherine was sent to Risberg Convent to be educated. She desired to remain in the convent to pursue a religious vocation, but she was promised in marriage to the virtuous and pious German noble Eggard Lydersson von Kürnen, a lifelong invalid. At age 13, the two were united in the sacrament of matrimony. Although Catherine was very beautiful, she and Eggard took a mutual vow of perpetual chastity. They devoted themselves to a life of Christian perfection and active charity.
In 1348, Catherine's father died. With Eggard’s permission, Catherine joined her mother on various pilgrimages. During these pilgrimages, they visited the tombs of the martyrs the churches, and together practiced works of piety, caring for the poor and the sick. In 1349, Catherine traveled with her mother to Rome for the Jubilee; it was at this time that Eggard died. Following his death, Catherine turned down numerous marriage proposals.
When her mother died in 1373, she returned to Sweden, taking the mortal remains of Saint Bridget with her for burial. Catherine entered a monastery at Vatzan, where she lived a very austere life. For the last twenty-five years of her life, Catherine participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation daily to purify her soul. She died on March 24, 1381. At the time of her death, Catherine was the superior of the convent of Wadstena, founded by her mother; hence the name, Catherine Vastanensis, by which she is occasionally called. She was canonized in 1484 by Pope Innocent VIII.
St. Catherine wrote a devotional work entitled "Consolation of the Soul." In art, Saint Catherine is commonly depicted as an abbess with a female deer, which, according to legend, protected her from attacks on her chastity. She may also be shown (1) holding a lily; (2) dressing a poor man's wounds; or (3) as the Blessed Sacrament is brought to her after her death.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
This Made My Day
Pro-life advocate and blogger Jill Stanek presents a hopeful and optomistic look at the future of the world in her post entitled Liberal extinction, by the numbers. This made my day.
Conversing with Jesus -- Updated
Today I am praying for...
1. Bill, who has left the Catholic faith and is very hostile toward the teachings of the Church that he will accept the grace the Lord is giving him to return to the Mystical Body of Christ.
2. an end to abortion and the reversal of Roe V. Wade.
3. Roxie and Scott and all who will be entering the Church this Easter.
4. P.'s mother-in-law, whose deteriorating physical and mental health required a hospital stay this week, most likely as the result of a stroke.
5. S.'s mother who has been hospitalized with pneumonia.
6. the poor and the hungry of the world.
7. discernment in one of my apostolates.
8. a job for the Confessionator.
9. Julie D.'s intentions.
10. continuing prayers for the health of Father S. & Father T. Praise the Lord for their progress!
11. the founder of our Community who will be undergoing major surgery on Friday, March 24. Please join the Community in praying for him at this time. Thank you.
Please feel free to join me in praying for these special intentions. If you have any prayer requests, please list them in the comment section below or email me and I would be happy to intercede for you.God reward you!
Michael Schiavo Admits Writing Book to "Settle Scores" With Terri's family
New York, NY (LifeNews.com) -- In a startling revelation, Terri Schaivo's ex-husband Michael admitted in an interview that his new book “Terri: The Truth” was written to "settle some scores" with Terri's family rather than honor the memory of the woman at the center of a national euthanasia battle.
Schiavo made the admission in an interview with NBC News scheduled to be broadcast on "Dateline" on March 26.
Host Matter Lauer told Schiavo, "I guess you could've written a book to honor Terri. After reading it, it's not really the book you wrote."
"This is a book that in some ways settles some scores, doesn't it?" Lauer asked him.
Michael Schiavo eagerly replied, "Oh yes it does."
Though Schiavo wrote the book with goals of retribution in mind, he said he thought "many times" of writing a book to honor the memory of the woman he painfully starved to death over a thirteen day period.
That Michael's book is more about scoring political points that honoring Terri Schiavo's life comes as no surprise to some observers. [Continue]
We all know the guy is a jerk and a murderer, so this shouldn't surprise most of us. He should be behind bars and the fact that he isn't is astonishing. However, I believe, unless he repents, he will suffer in hell for all eternity. We should pray for him that he will feel remorse for his actions, admit his guilt, confess it, repent, and accept God's mercy. St. Maria Goretti forgave her cousin -- the man who killed her -- from heaven, and I believe Terri would do the same if Michael would face the truth and repent.
Is Michael a psychopath and is he capable of expressing remorse or feeling guilt? From what I have read about him, he certainly seems to fit the profile of a psychopath or sociopath, but I haven't examined him and would be reluctant to make a diagnosis on the basis of secondhand information. However, I will say this. I believe he knows the difference between right and wrong and the alleged physical abuse, emotional abuse, and murder attempts, as well as removing her feeding tube were wrong -- and I believe he knew it. But, our God knows Michael's heart and soul intimately. He is a God of justice and mercy and He will judge Michael accordingly.
Schiavo made the admission in an interview with NBC News scheduled to be broadcast on "Dateline" on March 26.
Host Matter Lauer told Schiavo, "I guess you could've written a book to honor Terri. After reading it, it's not really the book you wrote."
"This is a book that in some ways settles some scores, doesn't it?" Lauer asked him.
Michael Schiavo eagerly replied, "Oh yes it does."
Though Schiavo wrote the book with goals of retribution in mind, he said he thought "many times" of writing a book to honor the memory of the woman he painfully starved to death over a thirteen day period.
That Michael's book is more about scoring political points that honoring Terri Schiavo's life comes as no surprise to some observers. [Continue]
We all know the guy is a jerk and a murderer, so this shouldn't surprise most of us. He should be behind bars and the fact that he isn't is astonishing. However, I believe, unless he repents, he will suffer in hell for all eternity. We should pray for him that he will feel remorse for his actions, admit his guilt, confess it, repent, and accept God's mercy. St. Maria Goretti forgave her cousin -- the man who killed her -- from heaven, and I believe Terri would do the same if Michael would face the truth and repent.
Is Michael a psychopath and is he capable of expressing remorse or feeling guilt? From what I have read about him, he certainly seems to fit the profile of a psychopath or sociopath, but I haven't examined him and would be reluctant to make a diagnosis on the basis of secondhand information. However, I will say this. I believe he knows the difference between right and wrong and the alleged physical abuse, emotional abuse, and murder attempts, as well as removing her feeding tube were wrong -- and I believe he knew it. But, our God knows Michael's heart and soul intimately. He is a God of justice and mercy and He will judge Michael accordingly.
Most Ridiculous News Item of the Day: Easter Bunny Offends Non-Christians!
First, it was Christmas nativities, then Christmas carols, and later, Christmas greetings that freaked out non - Christians. Now even the Easter bunny is perceived as being "offensive." Wow, are they ever easily offended! Here is Bill Donohue's take on it.EASTER BUNNY EXPELLED FROM ST. PAUL CITY HALL
Tyrone Terrill, the human rights director at St. Paul City Hall in Minnesota, has evicted a toy rabbit, colored eggs and a sign with the words “Happy Easter” from the premises. The display, which was in the lobby of the municipal building, was expelled on the grounds that the Easter Bunny might offend non-Christians.
Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League, responded as follows:
“We are sending Tyrone Terrill the ‘Supreme Bunny Suit’ from buycostumes.com. The adult-sized suit includes ‘a faux white fur bunny suit with attached tail, black velcro closure, a pair of mitts, shoe covers with velcro straps, and a full over-the-head character mask’; expected date of delivery is Monday.
“It is our hope that once Tyrone dons the costume, he will realize that even non-Christians are not offended. And we urge him to read and digest a copy of the First Amendment, preferably while munching on some rancid carrots.”
Via Catholic League.
Spiritual Quote for the Day
"Jesus is the eschatological shepherd Who gathers the lost sheep of the house of Israel and goes out to seek them, because He knows and loves them. By this 'gathering,' the Kingdom of God is announced to all people. After Jesus' passion and resurrection, the universal nature of the Apostles' mission became explicit. Christ will send the Apostles 'into all the world,' to 'all nations,' and 'to the end of the earth'."
~ Pope Benedict XVI
~ Pope Benedict XVI
Saint of the Day
St. Turibius of Mogrovejo
(1538-1606)
Together with Rose of Lima, Turibius is the first known saint of the New World, serving the Lord in Peru, South America, for 26 years.
Born in Spain and educated for the law, he became so brilliant a scholar that he was made professor of law at the University of Salamanca and eventually became chief judge of the Inquisition at Granada. He succeeded too well. But he was not sharp enough a lawyer to prevent a surprising sequence of events.
When the archbishopric of Lima in Spain’s Peruvian colony became vacant, it was decided that Turibius was the man needed to fill the post: He was the one person with the strength of character and holiness of spirit to heal the scandals that had infected that area.
He cited all the canons that forbade giving laymen ecclesiastical dignities, but he was overruled. He was ordained priest and bishop and sent to Peru, where he found colonialism at its worst. The Spanish conquerors were guilty of every sort of oppression of the native population. Abuses among the clergy were flagrant, and he devoted his energies (and suffering) to this area first.
He began the long and arduous visitation of an immense archdiocese, studying the language, staying two or three days in each place, often with neither bed nor food. He confessed every morning to his chaplain, and celebrated Mass with intense fervor. Among those to whom he gave the Sacrament of Confirmation was St. Rose of Lima, and possibly St. Martin de Porres. After 1590 he had the help of another great missionary, St. Francis Solanus.
His people, though very poor, were sensitive, dreading to accept public charity from others. Turibius solved the problem by helping them anonymously.
Comment:
The Lord indeed writes straight with crooked lines. Against his will, and from the unlikely springboard of an Inquisition tribunal, this man became the Christlike shepherd of a poor and oppressed people. God gave him the gift of loving others as they needed it.
Via American Catholic.
Pro-life Meditations for Stations of the Cross: The Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross
Our Lord died. So many of His children have died with Him. His passion is re-lived with every abortion, one every twenty seconds in our country. We only know a fraction of the horror of this act in the sight of God. We only know a fraction of the horror of Christ's crucifixion. May all our brothers and sisters killed by abortion rest in Christ's peace and be saved by His cross.
Meditation for the Third Week of Lent: Thursday
"Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving."
~ Psalm 95
"My fragility is great but His power is infinite."
~ St. Raphael Marie
~ Psalm 95
"My fragility is great but His power is infinite."
~ St. Raphael Marie
Come to think of it, there is a slight resemblance...
 | You scored as Anwar. You're just a very nice and caring person. You are in this world to teach and help others. You have a shining character and people know it.
What American Idol (Season 4) star are you? created with QuizFarm.com |
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
What Type of Writer Should You Be?
| You Should Be a Joke Writer |
 You're totally hilarious, and you can find the humor in any situation. Whether you're spouting off zingers, comebacks, or jokes about life... You usually can keep a crowd laughing, and you have plenty of material. You have the makings of a great comedian - or comedic writer. |
I suppose this is one of my genres. Via the talented Film Writer Julie at Happy Catholic.
Girls Gone Wild
Via Concerned Women for America:
The American Medical Association recently weighed in on the dangers of spring break antics for young women. Dr Janice Crouse, Senior Fellow with the Beverly LaHaye Institute, has more on this dangerous trend threatening the lives and health of our young people. Click here to listen or go here.
The American Medical Association recently weighed in on the dangers of spring break antics for young women. Dr Janice Crouse, Senior Fellow with the Beverly LaHaye Institute, has more on this dangerous trend threatening the lives and health of our young people. Click here to listen or go here.
Pro-life Meditations:The Eleventh Station - Jesus is Nailed to the Cross
Meditation for the Third Week of Lent: Wednesday
"What great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the Lord, our God is to us whenever we call upon him?"
~Deuteronomy 4
"I am not a man of letters or science. I simply try to be a man of prayer. It's prayer that saved my life. Without prayer I would have lost my senses. If I haven't lost peace of soul in spite of all the trials, it's because this peace comes from prayer. We can only live a few days without eating, but not without praying. Prayer is the morning key and the evening bolt. Prayer is a sacred alliance between God and men.
~ Gandhi
~Deuteronomy 4
"I am not a man of letters or science. I simply try to be a man of prayer. It's prayer that saved my life. Without prayer I would have lost my senses. If I haven't lost peace of soul in spite of all the trials, it's because this peace comes from prayer. We can only live a few days without eating, but not without praying. Prayer is the morning key and the evening bolt. Prayer is a sacred alliance between God and men.
~ Gandhi
St. Catherine of Genoa
Catherine was born in Genoa, Italy in 1447, the the fifth and youngest child of James Fieschi and his wife Francesca di Negro, members a noble family, which had produced two popes (Innocent IV and Adrian V).
At the age of 13 Catherine tried to became a cloistered nun, but failed because she was too young. Then her father died and her widowed mother insisted that she marry into nobility. At age 16, she married Guiliano Adorno. Her husband had a violent termper, was unfaithful, and selfish. For the first five years of their marriage, Catherine suffered in silence. Later, she tried to be more cosmopolitan to attract him, but this only made her unhappy.
One day, taking her sister's advice, she went to Confession and became aware of her sins and how much God loved her. She served as an excellent example for her husband, who eventually turned away from his life of sin and selfishness. He was converted and became a Franciscan tertiary. The two then lived chastely for the rest of their lives.
Catherine and Giuliano devoted themselves to caring for the sick in the hospital of Genoa, where they were joined by Catherine's cousin. They also moved from their palace to a small house in a poorer neighborhood. They later moved into the hospital and upon Guliano's death in 1497, Catherine became the hospital's administrator. Her spiritual life also became more intense and she received the stigmata.
Catherine wrote Dialogues of the Soul and Body and Treatise on Purgatory, which are outstanding works in the field of mysticism. She believed that purgatory begins on earth for souls open to God and life with God in heaven is a continuation and perfection of the life with God begun on earth.
Catherine died September 15, 1510, and was canonized in 1737. She is the patron of Genoa and of Italian hospitals. She is also the patron saint of brides, childless people, difficult marriages, and widows.
Quote:
"If it were given to a man to see virtue's reward in the next world, he would occupy his intellect, memory and will in nothing but good works, careless of danger or fatigue."
~ St. Catherine of Genoa
Urgent Prayer Request
Via Amy Wellborn:
Stephen Hand has been a mainstay of Catholic internet life for many years, perhaps even since the beginning. His family is in the midst of a tragic, difficult situation - his 28-year old son has fallen into what doctors are calling an irreversible coma. We lift this family up in prayer.
I am lifting up this family in prayer at this time and will also be praying for them during Mass today and during Eucharistic Adoration.
Stephen Hand has been a mainstay of Catholic internet life for many years, perhaps even since the beginning. His family is in the midst of a tragic, difficult situation - his 28-year old son has fallen into what doctors are calling an irreversible coma. We lift this family up in prayer.
I am lifting up this family in prayer at this time and will also be praying for them during Mass today and during Eucharistic Adoration.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
A Modern Day Saint from Wichita?
Theophilus reports on a Kansas U.S. Army Chaplain who is a candidate for santhood. He quotes the Wichita Eagle:
For the first time, the Catholic Diocese of Wichita has formed a task force to explore whether a native of the diocese should be named a saint.
The task force will compile a comprehensive report on the Rev. Emil Kapaun of Pilsen, who is revered by his fellow soldiers for the courage and compassion he displayed before his death in 1951 in a North Korean prisoner of war camp.That report will then be sent to the Vatican for review.
A task force exploring a cause for canonization "is very rare," acknowledged the Rev. John Hotze, judicial vicar for the Wichita Diocese and head of the task force.
You can read the full story here on his March 19th entry.
Tiller the Killer: The Reason Wichita is Called "the Abortion Capital of the World"
Wichita, KS - The Wichita Eagle published a story along with a huge, page-wide photo about Operation Rescue's billboards along I-35 in Oklahoma that declare Wichita the nation's Abortion Capital. The story mentions that the Greater Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau has received some phone calls from people concerned that the billboards might give Wichita a bad name.
"George Tiller is the one who has given Wichita a bad name", said Operation Rescue President Troy Newman, who moved OR's offices and staff to Wichita from Southern California to battle Tiller. The city's reputation has been further harmed by the fact that so many local companies enable Tiller to continue to his late-term chills-killing operation here by doing business with him."
Operation Rescue has published the names of the "Top 50 Abortion Collaborators" Wichita businesses that profit from the deaths of innocent children at Tiller's world famous abortion mill.
"We believe people have a right to know who is in bed with the abortion industry. Men and women of conscience do not want to spend their money supporting such businesses or communities," said OR spokesperson Cheryl Sullenger. "We encourage people to contact the abortion collaborators and the Greater Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau, and voice their concerns about their support of George Tiller's late-term abortion business."
Via Operation Rescue.
WorldNetDaily also presents the Wichita Eagle's story on their website.
What is rarely reported on are all the strong Pro-life workers and volunteers who give freely of their time and labors to help put an end to the culture of death in Wichita. Some of these groups include:
1. Operation Save America, who are affliliated with OSA National in Dallas, Teactivitiesr primary avtivities include: sidewalk counselor training and sidewalk counseling at abortion facilities; printing sidewalk counselor hand-outs for all Wichita Pro-life groups; community outreach at schools and public places.
2. Right to Life of Kansas, who are affilliated with the American Life League, in Stafford, VA. Their primary activities include: Rating candidates through PAC; legislative lobbying; bus trip to March for Life; Annual Convention; local walks; videos, talks, and literature.
3. The Kansas Democrat Coalition for Life. KDCFL is looking for Pro-life Democratic Precinct Committeemen and women candidates to run in the August Primary election.
4. The Kansas Republican Coalition for Life, which is affiliated with the Republican National Coalition for Life, in Dallas, Texas. Their primary activities include: Organizing Committeemen and women candidates to run in the August Primary Elections on even numbered years; promoting the Pro-life cause within the Republican party at the district and state levels.
5. Kansans for Life, which is affiliated with the National Right to Life Committee in Washington, D.C. Their primary activities include: Lobbying the Kansas Legislature; preparing and distributing Pro-life voter's guides for state-level candidates; maintaining a Pro-life resource library and a Pro-life speaker's bureau.
6. Kansas Coalition for Life, Inc., which has no national affiliation, but works with the Pro-life Action League, Chicago, IL and Life Dynamics, Denton, Texas. Their primary activities include: LPPPA (Love Prayer and Persistent Political Action) a seven year plan to close Tiller's Abortion facility, involving a continuous presence at Tiller's gate; providing aid and support to mother's who change their mind about having an abortion; sponsoring an annual Pro-life Signature Ad, for the benefit of all Pro-life groups in Kansas.
7. Operation Rescue West -- The Wichita office is the National operation Rescue West Office. Their primary activities include: maintaining a fleet of Truth-trucks which travel throughout the USA; direct counseling of individuals and businesses who work, indirectly or directly for the abortion industry. ORW also investigates botched abortions and provides facts and statistics to the media.
There are many other Pro-life resources, which include pregnancy crisis centers, pregnancy care centers, and Pro-life medical clinics. Some of this are: A Better Choice, Birthline, Gerard House, HopeNet, Bethlehem Maternity Home, Choices Medical Clinic, Heartland Life Network, and Pregnancy Crisis Center.
Although I have only lived in Kansas for about six months now, I can tell you this: Wichita has some of the most determined and dedicated Pro-lifers I have ever met. With all the prayer and the actions that are going on in Wichita, I don't think that Wichita will remain known as "the abortion capital of the world" for much longer.
Top Administrator at San Francisco Catholic Charities Is A Gay Adoptive Father
San Francisco, March 21, 2006 _ The chief administrative officer of San Francisco’s Catholic Charities is an openly gay man who has a daughter he adopted four years ago with his homosexual partner.
That fact summarizes the challenge confronting the new archbishop of San Francisco, George Niederauer, in the face of the burgeoning controversy over Catholic Charities’ adoption placements with homosexual couples.
The controversy was brought to the boiling point by a March 9th directive from Archbishop William Levada, former archbishop of San Francisco and now prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine for the Faith. Levada acknowledged that children had been placed with homosexual parents under his watch, and said it could no longer occur, in line with the 2003 statement by Levada’s predecessor, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger – now Pope Benedict XVI – saying homosexual adoptions "mean doing violence to these children, in the sense that their condition of dependency would be used to place them in an environment that is not conducive to their full human development." [More]
That fact summarizes the challenge confronting the new archbishop of San Francisco, George Niederauer, in the face of the burgeoning controversy over Catholic Charities’ adoption placements with homosexual couples.
The controversy was brought to the boiling point by a March 9th directive from Archbishop William Levada, former archbishop of San Francisco and now prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine for the Faith. Levada acknowledged that children had been placed with homosexual parents under his watch, and said it could no longer occur, in line with the 2003 statement by Levada’s predecessor, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger – now Pope Benedict XVI – saying homosexual adoptions "mean doing violence to these children, in the sense that their condition of dependency would be used to place them in an environment that is not conducive to their full human development." [More]
“DA VINCI CODE” DEVELOPMENTS WELCOME
March 21, 2006
Catholic League president Bill Donohue today addressed recent developments associated with “The Da Vinci Code”:
“All that Catholic League wants is for Ron Howard to put a disclaimer at the top of his movie noting that ‘The Da Vinci Code’ is not a work of history and we’ll drop the issue. While Howard refuses to comment on this request, there are important recent signs that he has gotten the message. For example, yesterday on the ‘Today’ show, co-producer Brian Grazer said three times that the film is ‘informed fiction’; he said that this was also the position of director Ron Howard and lead actor Tom Hanks. Indeed, he went so far as to say, ‘We don’t feel it’s factual, it’s not historic, but it’s informed fiction, and it’s a thriller.’ What exactly is informing this fable he does not say, but in any event we welcome this admission.
“We were also pleased to read that a Sony spokesman was quoted yesterday in Business Week Online saying that ‘we view’ the movie as ‘a work of fiction that is not meant to harm any organization.’ With honesty like this we expect a short disclaimer in the film will appear.
“But not all is going well for Dan Brown, the author of the famous book. Closing arguments in the London Da Vinci Code trial have been heard and a verdict will be issued by April 13. Two of the three authors of the 1982 non-fiction book Holy Blood, Holy Grail have sued Da Vinci Code publisher Random House for copyright infringement: they argue that Dan Brown stole his thesis from their volume, copying parts of their book, however ‘unwittingly.’
“Brown’s deceitfulness is well established: he has tried to sell his tale as if it were historically true. But the authors who are suing Brown’s publisher are also deceitful. The lies they told about the Catholic Church means their book was anything but non-fiction. Indeed, they’re now saying that their work is ‘historical conjecture.’ Quite a difference.
“So far at least, the real problem has been the authors of these two books, not Sony or Ron Howard. We hope the latter do not disappoint us.”
Catholic League president Bill Donohue today addressed recent developments associated with “The Da Vinci Code”:
“All that Catholic League wants is for Ron Howard to put a disclaimer at the top of his movie noting that ‘The Da Vinci Code’ is not a work of history and we’ll drop the issue. While Howard refuses to comment on this request, there are important recent signs that he has gotten the message. For example, yesterday on the ‘Today’ show, co-producer Brian Grazer said three times that the film is ‘informed fiction’; he said that this was also the position of director Ron Howard and lead actor Tom Hanks. Indeed, he went so far as to say, ‘We don’t feel it’s factual, it’s not historic, but it’s informed fiction, and it’s a thriller.’ What exactly is informing this fable he does not say, but in any event we welcome this admission.
“We were also pleased to read that a Sony spokesman was quoted yesterday in Business Week Online saying that ‘we view’ the movie as ‘a work of fiction that is not meant to harm any organization.’ With honesty like this we expect a short disclaimer in the film will appear.
“But not all is going well for Dan Brown, the author of the famous book. Closing arguments in the London Da Vinci Code trial have been heard and a verdict will be issued by April 13. Two of the three authors of the 1982 non-fiction book Holy Blood, Holy Grail have sued Da Vinci Code publisher Random House for copyright infringement: they argue that Dan Brown stole his thesis from their volume, copying parts of their book, however ‘unwittingly.’
“Brown’s deceitfulness is well established: he has tried to sell his tale as if it were historically true. But the authors who are suing Brown’s publisher are also deceitful. The lies they told about the Catholic Church means their book was anything but non-fiction. Indeed, they’re now saying that their work is ‘historical conjecture.’ Quite a difference.
“So far at least, the real problem has been the authors of these two books, not Sony or Ron Howard. We hope the latter do not disappoint us.”
Feast of St. Nicholas of Flue: Hermit, Patron Saint of Switzerland
St. Nicholas of Flue is the patron saint of Switzerland. He was born on March 12, 1417 on the Flüeli, a fertile plateau near Sachseln, Canton Obwalden, Switzerland. He was the oldest son of pious, peasant parents.
As a young boy, he was fond of praying and practising mortification. At the age of 21 he enlisted in the army and took part in the battle of Ragaz in 1446. He also participated in the Thurgau war against Archduke Sigismund of Austria. Because of his intercession, Swiss confederates did not destroy the Dominican convent of St. Katharinental.
At the age of twenty-five, he married a pious girl from Sachseln, named Dorothy Wyssling, who bore him five sons and five daughters. Their youngest son became a priest and doctor of theology. Nicholas served as magistrate and was a highly respected counselor.
After twenty - five years of living in wedlock, with his wife's permission, in 1467, he embraced the life of a hermit and adopted an austere lifestyle. He lived in a narrow hut, which he himself had built with branches and leaves. He wore neither shoes nor cap, and even in winter, he wore only a hermit's gown. In 1468, "Brother Klaus", (as he became affectionately known as) saved the town of Sarnen from a fire by his prayers and the sign of the cross.
Dignitaries from nearly every country of Europe came to this humble man for counsel in matters of the utmost importance. In 1469, the civil authorities built a cell and a chapel for him where he resided for the remainder of his life.
Through his efforts, he helped bring about the inclusion of Fribourg and Soleure in the Swiss Confederation in 1481, thus preventing the eruption of a potentially bloody civil war.
Nicholas died on his 70th birthday on March 21, 1487. He was beatified in 1669 by Pope Clement IX, canonized in 1947, by Pope Pius XII.
Pro-life Meditations: The Tenth Station of the Cross - Jesus is Stripped of His Garments
Nobody can stop us from loving our preborn brothers and sisters. Those stronger than we may strip us of popularity, possessions, or power, but they cannot strip us of love. We love others with the same love that Christ showed for us.
LENTEN MEDITATION -- Tuesday, Third week in Lent
"I forgave your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant as I had pity on you?"
~ Matthew 18
"Without reserve give yourself over with total confidence to the mercy of God, whose personification, by the will of God is the Immaculata. Trust yourself in nothing; be careful, and confide in her without limit, and at every moment or occasion of sin turn to her as a child to its mother and you will never fall."
~ St. Maximillian Marie Kolbe
~ Matthew 18
"Without reserve give yourself over with total confidence to the mercy of God, whose personification, by the will of God is the Immaculata. Trust yourself in nothing; be careful, and confide in her without limit, and at every moment or occasion of sin turn to her as a child to its mother and you will never fall."
~ St. Maximillian Marie Kolbe
Monday, March 20, 2006
Monday Humor
The Curt Jester has a hilarious post on Planned Parenthood's iPod offer.
Harvey Tobkes has a cute joke here.
Check out the winners of the 35th ever Right Place Photo Caption Contest here.
Harvey Tobkes has a cute joke here.
Check out the winners of the 35th ever Right Place Photo Caption Contest here.
FIVE YEAR OLDS TO LEARN ABOUT AIDS
New York City’s Department of Education has mandated that all five year olds must learn about AIDS and HIV in their kindergarten classes. The new curriculum begins today.
Catholic League president Bill Donohue commented as follows:
“New York City is home to some of the most reckless homosexual behavior in the United States, and that is why new strains of HIV have been detected here in the last few years and why reports of serious drug abuse—principally crystal meth—have exploded in the gay community. And what has been the response from the New York City government? Last month it announced that it would market its own official condom, as if the more than 1 million condoms that it already distributes free of charge isn’t enough.
“Now it has decided to teach little kids—still on their tricycles—about AIDS. It matters not a whit that those pushing this program say that the kids won’t learn how HIV is transmitted until the fourth grade (as if nine year olds are ready to learn about the wonders of anal sex), what matters is that this represents a coordinated effort on the part of city officials to sexually engineer our children. If they were truly interested in protecting kids from diseases, they would start by teaching them about such things as food poisoning.
“New York City is also telling parents that they may remove their children from these classes, but only if they agree to teach their kids at home. This is the time for Catholic parents who send their kids to the public schools to put their foot down: pull their kids from these classes, refuse to teach them about AIDS and then inform their principal of their refusal to cooperate. Let’s see if the education establishment has the nerve to settle this matter in court.”
This sounds like something similar to what Sen. Barack Obama was trying to push in IL awhile back. During the election debates, he mentioned that he supported sex education at the kindergarten level. I am sure that this is something that is just as desperately needed as Driver's Ed. is for five year olds.
Why don't the public schools in New York institute abstinence programs into their school curriculum (a little later on) and teach people how to exercise a little self-control rather than encouraging them to behave like animals?
I believe that parents should be the primary sex educators for their children and not the school system -- whether it be private or parochial, but as we know, not all parents are willing to take on this responsibility. When a parent refuses to be a parent and educate his/her child or children properly, then they are are subjecting not only that child to developing an immoral value system, but they are endangering society as a whole. When a parent refuses to do their parental duty, I see this as a form of child abuse, in the sense that the child's total education is being neglected.
Catholic League president Bill Donohue commented as follows:
“New York City is home to some of the most reckless homosexual behavior in the United States, and that is why new strains of HIV have been detected here in the last few years and why reports of serious drug abuse—principally crystal meth—have exploded in the gay community. And what has been the response from the New York City government? Last month it announced that it would market its own official condom, as if the more than 1 million condoms that it already distributes free of charge isn’t enough.
“Now it has decided to teach little kids—still on their tricycles—about AIDS. It matters not a whit that those pushing this program say that the kids won’t learn how HIV is transmitted until the fourth grade (as if nine year olds are ready to learn about the wonders of anal sex), what matters is that this represents a coordinated effort on the part of city officials to sexually engineer our children. If they were truly interested in protecting kids from diseases, they would start by teaching them about such things as food poisoning.
“New York City is also telling parents that they may remove their children from these classes, but only if they agree to teach their kids at home. This is the time for Catholic parents who send their kids to the public schools to put their foot down: pull their kids from these classes, refuse to teach them about AIDS and then inform their principal of their refusal to cooperate. Let’s see if the education establishment has the nerve to settle this matter in court.”
This sounds like something similar to what Sen. Barack Obama was trying to push in IL awhile back. During the election debates, he mentioned that he supported sex education at the kindergarten level. I am sure that this is something that is just as desperately needed as Driver's Ed. is for five year olds.
Why don't the public schools in New York institute abstinence programs into their school curriculum (a little later on) and teach people how to exercise a little self-control rather than encouraging them to behave like animals?
I believe that parents should be the primary sex educators for their children and not the school system -- whether it be private or parochial, but as we know, not all parents are willing to take on this responsibility. When a parent refuses to be a parent and educate his/her child or children properly, then they are are subjecting not only that child to developing an immoral value system, but they are endangering society as a whole. When a parent refuses to do their parental duty, I see this as a form of child abuse, in the sense that the child's total education is being neglected.
Holy Father: Abortion "Today's Gravest Injustice"
In a meeting today with representatives of the Vatican to international organizations, Pope Benedict XVI stressed that respect for the truth is the bases of justice. "Relations between States and within States are just in so far as they respect the truth," he said. "When, however, the truth is offended, peace is threatened and rule of law is compromised, then, as a logical consequence, injustices arise."
Representatives from the Vatican have been involved in the most difficult struggles at the United Nations where they are a guard against attacks on the family, and on the unborn. The Pope mentioned those struggles specifically in his address to the Vatican representatives, stressing that "today's gravest injustice" is the suppression of nascent life.
"These injustices can adopt many faces," said Benedict XVI. "For example, the face of disinterest or disorder, which can even go so far as to damage the structure of that founding cell of society that is the family; or perhaps the face of arrogance that can lead to abuse, silencing those without a voice or without the strength to make themselves heard, as happens in the case of today's gravest injustice, that which suppresses nascent human life."
The Pope concluded by telling the Holy See representatives that through "difficulties and misunderstandings" they "participate authoritatively in the prophetic responsibility of the Church, which intends to continue to raise her voice in defense of mankind, even when policies of States and the majority of public opinion moves in the opposite direction. Truth, indeed, draws strength from itself and not from the amount of consent it arouses."
Via LifeSite.
Representatives from the Vatican have been involved in the most difficult struggles at the United Nations where they are a guard against attacks on the family, and on the unborn. The Pope mentioned those struggles specifically in his address to the Vatican representatives, stressing that "today's gravest injustice" is the suppression of nascent life.
"These injustices can adopt many faces," said Benedict XVI. "For example, the face of disinterest or disorder, which can even go so far as to damage the structure of that founding cell of society that is the family; or perhaps the face of arrogance that can lead to abuse, silencing those without a voice or without the strength to make themselves heard, as happens in the case of today's gravest injustice, that which suppresses nascent human life."
The Pope concluded by telling the Holy See representatives that through "difficulties and misunderstandings" they "participate authoritatively in the prophetic responsibility of the Church, which intends to continue to raise her voice in defense of mankind, even when policies of States and the majority of public opinion moves in the opposite direction. Truth, indeed, draws strength from itself and not from the amount of consent it arouses."
Via LifeSite.
Pope Pays Tribute to St. Joseph On His Feast Day
Pope Benedict XVI paid tribute to St. Joseph-- the universal patron of the Catholic Church and his own personal patron saint-- during his public audience on Sunday, March 19.
Ordinarily March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph. Because the date fell this year on a Sunday in Lent, the observance is held on March 20. But the Holy Father spoke about St. Joseph at his Angelus audience, saying that the saint's greatness is "even more evident because his mission took place in the humility and obscurity of his home in Nazareth."
The example set by St. Joseph should inspire all Christians to "faithfulness, simplicity, and modesty," the Pope said. He spoke of "the beauty of a simple hard-working life," and the important duty of parents for the education of their children. The Pope encouraged parents to look to St. Joseph for inspiration and support. He also encouraged workers and leaders of religious communities to rely on his patronage.
Via Catholic World News.
Ordinarily March 19 is the feast of St. Joseph. Because the date fell this year on a Sunday in Lent, the observance is held on March 20. But the Holy Father spoke about St. Joseph at his Angelus audience, saying that the saint's greatness is "even more evident because his mission took place in the humility and obscurity of his home in Nazareth."
The example set by St. Joseph should inspire all Christians to "faithfulness, simplicity, and modesty," the Pope said. He spoke of "the beauty of a simple hard-working life," and the important duty of parents for the education of their children. The Pope encouraged parents to look to St. Joseph for inspiration and support. He also encouraged workers and leaders of religious communities to rely on his patronage.
Via Catholic World News.
Pro-life Meditations: The Ninth Station of the Cross --Jesus Falls the Third Time
Despite the falls, nothing can stop our Lord, because He is on a mission of love. If the pro-life movement is not a movement of love, it is nothing at all, but if it is a movement of love, then nothing will stop it. Love is stronger than death, more powerful than hell.
A Scientifically Accurate Personality Test
| You Are Kermit |
 |
I didn't expect this, but it isn't too far off from the real me.
Via SFO Mom.
Conversing with Jesus -- Updated
Today, I am praying for...
1. an end to abortion and the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
2. for all who are working to end the culture of death.
3. comfort and peace for Gayla & family.
4. T.O.'s special intentions.
5. Moneybag's vocation and his special intentions.
6. W.'s health.
7. Roxie and Scott who are preparing to enter the Catholic Church.
8. Bill, who has left the Catholic faith and is very hostile toward the teachings of the Church, that he will accept the grace the Lord is giving him to return to the Mystical Body of Christ.
9. the health of Fr. T. and Fr. S.
10. my Oblate prayer partner's special intentions.
11. all fathers, that they will emulate St. Joseph in their vocations.
12. my Spiritual Father, for special blessings on his feast day.
13. my partner at the abortion mill and her special intentions.
14. continued physical healing for my husband, Bill, whose accident was once month ago today.
15. Peggy's vocation.
16. Ukok's special intentions.
Please feel free to join me in praying for these special intentions. If you have any prayer requests, please list them in the comment section or email them to me and I would be happy to intercede for you.
God reward you!
Brief Meditation on St. Joseph
Saint Joseph is a man of great spirit. He is great in faith, not because he speaks his own words, but above all because he listens to the words of the Living God. He listens in silence. And his heart ceaselessly perseveres in the readiness to accept the Truth contained in the word of the Living God. We see how the word of the Living God penetrates deeply into the soul of that man, that just man. And we, do we know how to listen to the word of God? Do we know how to absorb it into the depths of our human personalities? Do we open our conscience in the presence of this word?
Pope John Paul II from Daily Meditations
Pope John Paul II from Daily Meditations
Operation Rescue Reacts to RU-486 Deaths: FDA Warnings "Too little, too late."
Via Operation Rescue:
Washington, DC - Mar 20, 2006 - Last week the Food and Drug Administration announced that the killer abortion drug Mifepristone (RU 486) has claimed the lives of two more women. This brings the known death toll to 6 in a three year span from 2003-2005.
The FDA has issued new warnings about the dangers of the abortion drug and Planned Parenthood, while refusing to stop its use has agreed to stop the unapproved vaginal use of it.
Operation Rescue says this is just “too little, too late.”“Since the days when Dr. Samuel Yen first began clinical trials of RU 486 in San Diego in 1993, we have always warned that this drug should not be allowed to be used. The dangers with the drug for mother and child have always been apparent,” said Operation Rescue spokesperson Cheryl Sullenger.
“Because abortion-related deaths are notoriously under-reported, we don’t really know how many women have actually died from this drug,” said Sullenger. “Every time Planned Parenthood or any other abortionist administers Mifepristone, they prove how little they really care for the welfare of women. They might as well be playing Russian Roulette with their lives. We know it is a killer, in more ways than one, and should be taken off the market immediately.”
Washington, DC - Mar 20, 2006 - Last week the Food and Drug Administration announced that the killer abortion drug Mifepristone (RU 486) has claimed the lives of two more women. This brings the known death toll to 6 in a three year span from 2003-2005.
The FDA has issued new warnings about the dangers of the abortion drug and Planned Parenthood, while refusing to stop its use has agreed to stop the unapproved vaginal use of it.
Operation Rescue says this is just “too little, too late.”“Since the days when Dr. Samuel Yen first began clinical trials of RU 486 in San Diego in 1993, we have always warned that this drug should not be allowed to be used. The dangers with the drug for mother and child have always been apparent,” said Operation Rescue spokesperson Cheryl Sullenger.
“Because abortion-related deaths are notoriously under-reported, we don’t really know how many women have actually died from this drug,” said Sullenger. “Every time Planned Parenthood or any other abortionist administers Mifepristone, they prove how little they really care for the welfare of women. They might as well be playing Russian Roulette with their lives. We know it is a killer, in more ways than one, and should be taken off the market immediately.”
Meditation for the Third Week of Lent: Monday
"He believed, hoping against hope."
~ Romans 4
"What pleases the good God in my little soul is to see me love my littleness and my poverty, it is seeing the blind trust that I have in His mercy."
~ St. Therese of the Child Jesus
~ Romans 4
"What pleases the good God in my little soul is to see me love my littleness and my poverty, it is seeing the blind trust that I have in His mercy."
~ St. Therese of the Child Jesus
Spiritual Quote of the Day
"The soul hungers for God, and nothing but God can satiate it. Therefore He came to dwell on earth and assumed a Body in order that this Body might become the Food for our souls."
~ St. John Mary Vianney
St. Joseph: A Man of Faith, Courage, Humility, Obedience, & Love
Today is the feast of St. Joseph. St. Joseph has always held a special place in my heart. Perhaps it is because he has come through for me and my husband, Bill, in some very tough situations. St. Teresa of Avila said that she could not remember ever asking Saint Joseph for anything that she did not receive. Or perhaps it may have something to do with the fact that my Spiritual Father's name is Joseph or that my husband's Confirmation name is Joseph and they are both strong, holy, Catholic men. I do know that I admire St. Joseph a great deal. Can you imagine living under the same roof as the Son of God and being married to the Mother of God, a perfect woman who did not carry the stain of original sin? He didn't have a chance when it came to winning an argument in that family.(Sorry, I couldn't resist that one.)
He had a huge responsibility in caring for the two of them. He took on this responsibility with complete obedience to the will of God. He certainly must have had his doubts, concerns, and worries, yet he never faltered, but remained faithful and obedient. This is how Pope John Paul II describes St. Joseph:
""Saint Joseph was a just man, a tireless worker, the upright guardian of those entrusted to his care."
Here is a tribute to St. Joseph, written by St. Louis de Montfort
IN HONOR OF SAINT JOSEPH, SPOUSE OF MARY
by Saint Louis de Montfort
Let’s sing a hymn in honor
Of Saint Joseph, the protector
And spouse of Mary.
Humble Joseph is little known.
No one on earth truly understands him
But he ravishes the blessed.
May earth unite with heaven
May everything glorify him!
Great saint, God found only you
Worthy to be the spouse
Of His admirable Mother.
Spouse of the Queen of heaven,
This privilege is marvelous;
Witness of her holiness
Guardian of her purity,
O incomparable glory!
The Eternal Father chose you
To nourish His Son on earth,
To be His vicar.
You have carried in your arms
He who holds everything in His hands,
By a most special choice
You have been the nurturer
Of your own Father.
Oh! to have seen Him caress you
Smile at you and embrace you
With extraordinary love.
His smiles pierced your heart
And filled it with tenderness.
Embraced by His love.
You told Him, in your turn,
My dear Son, I love you.
If a word of Mary was able
To sanctify, by its power
Saint John with his mother,
What must have
His holy and loving conversation
Wrought in you!
His words ravished you,
His presence filled you
With grace and light.
How great your humility!
It enabled youTo be silent,
To take the lowest place
To live as a poor carpenter
To appear ignorant,
Incapable, without talent,
Simple, imprudent.
The more you humbled yourself
The more God has exalted you
Close to Him in heaven.
Your merits are astounding
Your privileges are great
Heaven admires your splendor
The world is full of your favors
As is Purgatory.
No one ever prays to you in vain
Everyone trusts you
As Teresa said.
Your Son is the glorious God
Your Spouse is the Queen of heaven.
Praying, you command them
Everything is done, if you ask.
O power without limit!
SAINT JOSEPH:
Try to be the last in all things,
To hide yourself, and rejoice
In Jesus and Mary!
Seek what the world rejects
And flee from what it pursues.
Let faith alone govern you,
In order to be happy with me
By imitating my life.
PRAYER
Saint Joseph, be my patron
To obtain for me a great gift:
Divine Wisdom!
To glorify my Savior,
To convert sinners,
To help poor little ones,
To crush my enemies.
Love impels you!
Here is a wonderful website in honor of St. Joseph which contains prayers, devotions, links, and recipes for celebrating the day.
Happy Feast day, Father!
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Quick Quotes
In America we tend to erase women after 4o, so opines Sharon Stone. "I would say, "Try 30."
~ Fr. Shane Tharp, Catholic Ragemonkey
"Go against the flow of what everybody else is doing. Any dead fish can float downstream. Sacrifice and make a gift of yourself."
~ Fr. Stan Fortuna
"Partial birth abortion is not necessary for women's physical or emotional health. Extensive testimony reveals there is no maternal reason why such a gruesome and inhumane procedure must be performed."
~ Deidre A. McQade, Spokeswoman for the U.S. Bishop's Secreteriat for Pro-life Activities
~ Fr. Shane Tharp, Catholic Ragemonkey
"Go against the flow of what everybody else is doing. Any dead fish can float downstream. Sacrifice and make a gift of yourself."
~ Fr. Stan Fortuna
"Partial birth abortion is not necessary for women's physical or emotional health. Extensive testimony reveals there is no maternal reason why such a gruesome and inhumane procedure must be performed."
~ Deidre A. McQade, Spokeswoman for the U.S. Bishop's Secreteriat for Pro-life Activities
EWTN SPECIALS
EWTN has some great specials coming up. I am really looking forward to watching JOSEPH: THE MAN CLOSEST TO CHRIST
and DANA: THE BEST IS YET TO COME.
and DANA: THE BEST IS YET TO COME.
WHEN WILL THE MADNESS END?
Two days ago two more women died as a result of taking the abortion pill RU-486, which makes the total count of deaths from the drug as seven -- seven healthy women dead as a result of taking this dangerous pill. To date, there have been over 800 complications due to RU-486 that have been reported to the FDA. Yet, RU-486 remains on the market.
By giving its approval, FDA participates in the deception that RU-486 is ‘safe.’ How many women must die before the FDA will act? Are their lives less important than making abortion convenient?” When will the FDA determine that enough is enough?
Drugs with fewer reported complications that the FDA has pulled include:
NeutroSpec, an imaging agent used to diagnose internal infections, was pulled from the market after being linked to two deaths, 20 severe reactions, and 46 other “less” severe reactions.
Tysabri, a drug to treat multiple sclerosis, was pulled from the market on Feb. 28, 2005, after reports that three patients taking it had developed PML, a rare brain disease. Studies published in New England Journal of Medicine in early March reported no additional cases of PML.
Lotronex, the only drug in its class to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which afflicts approximately 40 million Americans was pulled. About 300,000 people had taken it. About 70 patients had developed severe problems, with five deaths including three possibly linked to the drug.
Bextra was pulled even though an FDA advisory committee voted a few months before that Bextra should remain on the market.
The FDA has acted cautiously with these drugs, but have not behaved in a similar manner with RU-486, which is a drug given only to women and its only purpose is to abort babies.
Is it possible that someone or some group of individuals could be paying the FDA to keep this drug on the market? I won't name names, but I am sure most of us have a good idea of who those groups who could care less about the well-being of women and who strongly advocate the killing of the unborn might be.
I remember praying the rosary outside of a local "Christian" (sic)
hospital in Peoria, IL who performed abortions via RU-486. Along with a small group of people, I distributed flyers to the public on the hospital's abortion policies and the dangers of using RU-486. Even the local newspaper warned of the possible dangers of this drug. That was several years ago. Seven deaths and more than 800 complications later, it is still going strong.
What can we do about it? I, for one, intend to write my congressman. I hope that others will do the same. Something needs to be done before more women and more babies lose their lives to this deadly drug.
By giving its approval, FDA participates in the deception that RU-486 is ‘safe.’ How many women must die before the FDA will act? Are their lives less important than making abortion convenient?” When will the FDA determine that enough is enough?
Drugs with fewer reported complications that the FDA has pulled include:
NeutroSpec, an imaging agent used to diagnose internal infections, was pulled from the market after being linked to two deaths, 20 severe reactions, and 46 other “less” severe reactions.
Tysabri, a drug to treat multiple sclerosis, was pulled from the market on Feb. 28, 2005, after reports that three patients taking it had developed PML, a rare brain disease. Studies published in New England Journal of Medicine in early March reported no additional cases of PML.
Lotronex, the only drug in its class to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which afflicts approximately 40 million Americans was pulled. About 300,000 people had taken it. About 70 patients had developed severe problems, with five deaths including three possibly linked to the drug.
Bextra was pulled even though an FDA advisory committee voted a few months before that Bextra should remain on the market.
The FDA has acted cautiously with these drugs, but have not behaved in a similar manner with RU-486, which is a drug given only to women and its only purpose is to abort babies.
Is it possible that someone or some group of individuals could be paying the FDA to keep this drug on the market? I won't name names, but I am sure most of us have a good idea of who those groups who could care less about the well-being of women and who strongly advocate the killing of the unborn might be.
I remember praying the rosary outside of a local "Christian" (sic)
hospital in Peoria, IL who performed abortions via RU-486. Along with a small group of people, I distributed flyers to the public on the hospital's abortion policies and the dangers of using RU-486. Even the local newspaper warned of the possible dangers of this drug. That was several years ago. Seven deaths and more than 800 complications later, it is still going strong.
What can we do about it? I, for one, intend to write my congressman. I hope that others will do the same. Something needs to be done before more women and more babies lose their lives to this deadly drug.
Pro-life Meditations for Stations of the Cross: The Eighth Station -- Jesus Speaks to the Women of Jerusalem
Christ told these women to weep for themselves and for their children. He does not want false worship, but repentance. He does not want followers who cry out to Him but then ignore injustice and bloodshed. May all who believe in Christ likewise stand up for the defenseless children.
LENTEN MEDITATION -- THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT
"He made a whip out of cords and drove them all out of the temple area, with the sheep and oxen, and spilled the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables, and to those who sold doves he said, "Take these out of here, and stop making my Father's house a marketplace."
~John 2
"Discover the heart of God in the words of God."
~St. Gregory the Great
~John 2
"Discover the heart of God in the words of God."
~St. Gregory the Great
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Conversing with Jesus
Today I am praying for...
1. the fruitfulness of the Novitiate Conference Center fundraiser dinner this Sunday, March 19, and for all of those putting so much effort and energy into the project.
2. comfort and peace for Gayla & family.
3. T.O.'s special intentions.
4. Moneybag's vocation and his special intentions.
5. W.'s health.
6. an end to abortion and the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
7. Roxie and Scott who are preparing to enter the Catholic Church.
8. the health of Fr. T. and Fr. S.
Please feel free to join me in praying for these special intentions. If you have any prayer requests, please list them in the comment section and I would be happy to intercede for you.
God reward you!
1. the fruitfulness of the Novitiate Conference Center fundraiser dinner this Sunday, March 19, and for all of those putting so much effort and energy into the project.
2. comfort and peace for Gayla & family.
3. T.O.'s special intentions.
4. Moneybag's vocation and his special intentions.
5. W.'s health.
6. an end to abortion and the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
7. Roxie and Scott who are preparing to enter the Catholic Church.
8. the health of Fr. T. and Fr. S.
Please feel free to join me in praying for these special intentions. If you have any prayer requests, please list them in the comment section and I would be happy to intercede for you.
God reward you!
HILLARY MARCHES IN ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
Catholic League president Bill Donohue took notice of Senator Hillary Clinton’s decision to march in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City:
“In 2000, when Hillary Clinton was running for the U.S. Senate in New York, she marched in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. But that didn’t sit too well with gay activists who blasted her for marching in a parade that excludes gays from marching under their own banner. Indeed, Christine Quinn, now the City Council Speaker and then a councilwoman, told the Daily News in 2001 that she was ‘very disappointed and critical of Mrs. Clinton’s decision to march last year.’ And the Journal News reported that Clinton ‘was roundly criticized by her gay supporters for marching in last year’s parade.’ So what happened in 2001? Hillary said she had a scheduling conflict that prevented her from marching, an excuse that was denounced by former New York City Mayor Ed Koch as ‘ridiculous.’
“Having been beaten up for not marching in 2001, Hillary decided to march in 2002, and once again she was criticized by gay activists for doing so. This explains why she sat out the parades of 2003, 2004 and 2005. So why is Hillary marching in 2006? Because it’s an election year. No doubt she’ll march again for the next couple of years because she wants to be elected president in 2008.
“Hillary Clinton’s chameleonic response to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is grounded in politics and deceit. She will pander to gays one year, to Irish Catholics the next. She’s fooling no one save her loyalists, a shrinking band of bi-coastal, switch-hitting fat cats.”
Via Catholic League.
“In 2000, when Hillary Clinton was running for the U.S. Senate in New York, she marched in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. But that didn’t sit too well with gay activists who blasted her for marching in a parade that excludes gays from marching under their own banner. Indeed, Christine Quinn, now the City Council Speaker and then a councilwoman, told the Daily News in 2001 that she was ‘very disappointed and critical of Mrs. Clinton’s decision to march last year.’ And the Journal News reported that Clinton ‘was roundly criticized by her gay supporters for marching in last year’s parade.’ So what happened in 2001? Hillary said she had a scheduling conflict that prevented her from marching, an excuse that was denounced by former New York City Mayor Ed Koch as ‘ridiculous.’
“Having been beaten up for not marching in 2001, Hillary decided to march in 2002, and once again she was criticized by gay activists for doing so. This explains why she sat out the parades of 2003, 2004 and 2005. So why is Hillary marching in 2006? Because it’s an election year. No doubt she’ll march again for the next couple of years because she wants to be elected president in 2008.
“Hillary Clinton’s chameleonic response to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is grounded in politics and deceit. She will pander to gays one year, to Irish Catholics the next. She’s fooling no one save her loyalists, a shrinking band of bi-coastal, switch-hitting fat cats.”
Via Catholic League.
Pro-life Meditations: The Seventh Station of the Cross -- Jesus Falls the Second Time
In working to defend life, there are many setbacks and obstacles. Yet we know the meaning of the cross. In weakness, power reaches perfection. We do not look to our own strengths and talents alone, but to Christ. His own strength will sustain us.
Meditation for the Second Week of Lent: Saturday
"While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion.
He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him."
~ Luke 15
"To live without faith, without a homeland to defend, without upholding truth in a continual fight -- that's not living, but vegetating. We must never vegetate, but live."
~ Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him."
~ Luke 15
"To live without faith, without a homeland to defend, without upholding truth in a continual fight -- that's not living, but vegetating. We must never vegetate, but live."
~ Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
A Beautiful Lenten Poem & Meditation
THE SILENT NIGHT
The deer were at their graze
And the robin with the speckled bill came toward
To see and let me stay
The deer were in their ash coats
Speckled dun, and curiously
Without alarm they stood and watched me
Not yet spring grown
Wind fallen too from equinoctial storms
The forest had no shade
It is our Lent, and nothing
Can molest us these few weeks
What is it you seek?
Tell me, tell me little ones
Docile, unafraid
How is the Resurrection made?
How from this destruction
Can the living one arise?
The deer watched me with soft eyes
There were four does, a fawn
They listened, stood their ground
And did not make a sound
But the small birds in the scatter
Stirred and tossed the leaves
Looking for the end of last year's seeds
On the night that He was born
The deer had speech
And we could teach
And on the night
He will arise
We will be silent then
Observe with our soft eyes
But the birds will take to flight
To all the quarters of the world
And tell the silent night
~ Pavel Chichikov
http://www.kaufmannpublishing.com/Mysteries.htm
The deer were at their graze
And the robin with the speckled bill came toward
To see and let me stay
The deer were in their ash coats
Speckled dun, and curiously
Without alarm they stood and watched me
Not yet spring grown
Wind fallen too from equinoctial storms
The forest had no shade
It is our Lent, and nothing
Can molest us these few weeks
What is it you seek?
Tell me, tell me little ones
Docile, unafraid
How is the Resurrection made?
How from this destruction
Can the living one arise?
The deer watched me with soft eyes
There were four does, a fawn
They listened, stood their ground
And did not make a sound
But the small birds in the scatter
Stirred and tossed the leaves
Looking for the end of last year's seeds
On the night that He was born
The deer had speech
And we could teach
And on the night
He will arise
We will be silent then
Observe with our soft eyes
But the birds will take to flight
To all the quarters of the world
And tell the silent night
~ Pavel Chichikov
http://www.kaufmannpublishing.com/Mysteries.htm
Remembering Terri Schindler Schiavo on the First Anniversary of Her Death
In loving Memory Terri Schindler Schiavo 1963-2005 March 31st is the one year anniversary of the death of Terri Schindler Schiavo. My heart still aches at the tragic loss of the life of this innocent woman. The nation grieves for her and remembers her gentleness, the love and zest she had for life, and how horrible she was treated by the man who legally controlled her life and was husband to her in name only.
God permitted her tragic death for a reason and she was truly a martyr in the pro-life movement. Her death was a dramatic wake-up call to all those in this country -- it alerted us all to the horrible tragedy of euthansia, which has become so commonplace in our society today. It caused some of us who were indifferent, apathetic, or unaware to take a long, hard look at the reality of what is going on in our society and to become more pro-active to prevent this same situation from happening to ourselves and others in the future. It strenghtened the resolve of those of us who were already actively involved in the pro-life movement to work and to pray even harder and to persevere in our efforts.
Below are some of my posts from last year when I reported on her tragic situation. I continue to pray for healing for her family and for repentance and conversion for her former spouse, Michael Schiavo.
I am still in awe of her family -- her parents and siblings -- who fought until the end for her life and were such a strong support for her. I thank the Lord for them and all the charitable work they continue to do to help others through the Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation, a non-profit group dedicated to ensuring the rights of disabled, elderly and vulnerable citizens against care rationing, euthanasia and medical killing.
Reinforcements for Terri -- March 2, 2005
Keep Praying for Terri -- March 8, 2005
Terri Schiavo Deserves the Same Rights as Ted Bundy says Center for a Just Society -- March 10, 2005
Businessman Offers $1 Million To Keep Woman On Life Support -- March 10, 2005
Mel Gibson Supports Terri Schiavo -- March 13, 2005
Novena for Terri Schiavo -- March 13, 2005
Crystal Clear Look at the Loving and Murderous Michael Schiavo -- March 15, 2005
Supreme Court Rejects Schiavo Appeal -- March 17, 2005
Some Concise Facts for Congress -- March 19, 2005
Michael Schiavo Caught In Yet Another Lie -- March 19, 2005
The Latest Information 0n Terri -- March 22, 2005
Judge Denies Request to Re-insert Feeding Tube -- March 22, 2005
Video of Carla Sauer Iyer on Michael Schiavo: "I want the public to know the truth" -- March 23, 2005
Terri Schiavo Allowed to Receive Communion -- March 27, 2005
Terri Schiavo Dies of Thirst -- March 31, 2005
Below are some of my posts from last year when I reported on her tragic situation. I continue to pray for healing for her family and for repentance and conversion for her former spouse, Michael Schiavo.
I am still in awe of her family -- her parents and siblings -- who fought until the end for her life and were such a strong support for her. I thank the Lord for them and all the charitable work they continue to do to help others through the Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation, a non-profit group dedicated to ensuring the rights of disabled, elderly and vulnerable citizens against care rationing, euthanasia and medical killing.
Reinforcements for Terri -- March 2, 2005
Keep Praying for Terri -- March 8, 2005
Terri Schiavo Deserves the Same Rights as Ted Bundy says Center for a Just Society -- March 10, 2005
Businessman Offers $1 Million To Keep Woman On Life Support -- March 10, 2005
Mel Gibson Supports Terri Schiavo -- March 13, 2005
Novena for Terri Schiavo -- March 13, 2005
Crystal Clear Look at the Loving and Murderous Michael Schiavo -- March 15, 2005
Supreme Court Rejects Schiavo Appeal -- March 17, 2005
Some Concise Facts for Congress -- March 19, 2005
Michael Schiavo Caught In Yet Another Lie -- March 19, 2005
The Latest Information 0n Terri -- March 22, 2005
Judge Denies Request to Re-insert Feeding Tube -- March 22, 2005
Video of Carla Sauer Iyer on Michael Schiavo: "I want the public to know the truth" -- March 23, 2005
Terri Schiavo Allowed to Receive Communion -- March 27, 2005
Terri Schiavo Dies of Thirst -- March 31, 2005
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