Right to Life VII

Mt. Rushmore, 2007

Day Seven
Remembering Our Forefathers

Prayer
Father of life, help this nation to hear the voice of our forefathers: and to believe that God has truly given us the right to life, to liberty, and to the pursuit of happiness.

A Reading from the Acts of the Apostles 17: 26-28
[God] made from one the whole human race to dwell on the entire surface of the earth, and he fixed the ordered seasons and the boundaries of their regions, so that people might seek God, even perhaps grope for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. For "In him we live and move and have our being..."

(silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation, make every one of your children a defender and promoter of the right to life.

A Reflection by Pope John Paul II*
[The] Gospel gave a new meaning to the concept of native land [patria]. In its original sense, it means what we have inherited from our fathers and mothers on earth. The inheritance we receive from Christ orientates the patrimony of human native lands and cultures toward the eternal homeland. Christ says: "I came from the Father and have come into the world; again I am leaving the world and going to the Father" (John 16:28). Christ's departure to go to the Father introduces a new homeland into human history. Sometimes we speak of the "heavenly home," or "eternal home: These expression indicate what has been accomplished in the history of man and the history of nations through Christ's coming into the world and through his leaving this world to go to the Father.

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

*Pope John Paul II, Memory and Identity: Conversations at the Dawn of a Millennium, pp. 62f.

~~~~~~~

There are so many songs we have as a nation that give rise to patriotism. There are also many more songs, I would contend, that should give rise to Christian Patriotism. I'm also thinking there are songs of gratitude that must be sung, as well, for this precious life we have been given. "Now Thank We All Our God" is one I am humming now...A grand and glorious song of thanksgiving, I'm thinking!

~~~~~~~
For all who join in this chorus, I say
Thanks Be to God!

Right to Life V

Photography by Jerry Harpur

Day Five
Resting Only in Your Truth

Prayer
Father of life, help me to bring every longing to the infinite fulfillment of every heart's expectations.

A Reading from Saint Paul's Letter to the Romans 2:14-15
For it is not those who hear the law who are just in the sight of God; rather, those who observe the law will be justified. For when the Gentiles who do no have the law by nature observe the prescription of the law, they are a law for themselves even though they do not have the law. They show that the demands of the law are written in their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even defend them on the day when, according to my gospel, God will judge people's hidden works through Christ Jesus.

(silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation, when I am afraid, weak, or uncertain, open my mind to your truth and goodness, that reading your work written on my heart, I might learn to treasure the life of every man.

A Reflection by Pope Benedict XVII*
an "adult" faith is not a faith that follows the trends of fashion and the latest novelty; a mature adult faith is deeply rooted in friendship with Christ. It is this friendship that opens us up to all that is good and gives us a criterion by which to distinguish the true from the false, and deceit from truth...We must develop this adult faith; we must guide the flock of Christ to this faith. And it is this faith-only faith-that creates unity and is fulfilled in love...on this theme, St. Paul offers us some beautiful words as a fundamental formula for Christian existence, in contrast to the continual ups and downs of those who, like children, are tossed about by the waves: make truth in love. Truth and love merge in Christ. To the extent that we draw near to Christ, in our own lives too, Truth and love are blended. Love without truth would be blind; truth without love would be like " a clanging cymbal" (1Cor 13-1).

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

*Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, Homily, Mass for the Election of the Pope, 18 April 2005

~~~~~~

I would ask for prayers for all those who this day may be traveling to Washington, DC to participate in the Right to Life march that their journey might be safe and all return home safe and sound. I pray this for all who represent St. John the Baptist Church and all churches that have members of this one family in Christ participating.

I would also ask for prayers for Christian Unity. For as Fr. Joe reminded us, this week is the Prayer for Christian Unity week. Needless to say this is a week in which we must all pray incessantly and with determination.

And so I interject this reflection by Pope John Paul II:

Unity, penance, prayer.

In the school of the Apostle of the Gentiles we can gain consciousness that we are all in need of conversion.

There is no Christian without penance.

"There is no true ecumenicism without interior conversion"

"Who are you to pass judgement on another..."(Romans 13:4). Let us rather recognize our faults together. This holds good as well for the grace of unity: "All have sinned." We ought to see and say this in all seriousness and draw our conclusions...

Jesus Christ is the salvation of us all..."We are at peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1) and among ourselves...we believe and together profess all that...

All our gratitude for what remains in common to us and unites us must not blind us to what still divides us...We are called to go forth together, in dialogue of truth and love, to full unity of the faith...We must not leave anything untried. We must do everything to unite ourselves. We owe this to God and to the world...

The will of Christ and the signs of the times urges to common testimony of the increasing fullness of truth and love...The tasks awaiting us are great and grave..."The Spirit helps us in
our weakness" (Romans 8:26).

~*~*~*~*~
And for the privilege to live in a nation in which I can pray without reprisal I say,
Thanks be to God.

Right to Life IV

Quebec, 2003

Day Four
To Love Through Amazement

Prayer
Father of life, as you have given me the gift of life, so may I give it away each day to your, and to my brothers and sisters, that through penitence, prayer, and charity my days on earth may lead me home to you.

A Reading from the first Letter of Saint John 3:14-16, 19-20
We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brother. Whoever does not love remains in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life remaining in him. The way we came to know love was that he laid down his life for us; so we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers...Now this is how we shall know that we belong to the truth and reassure our hearts before him in whatever our hearts condemn, for God is greater than our hearts and knows everything.

(silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation, help me to listen with everyone I meet to the profound and persuasive echo in their heart of the Gospel of Life and the joy of your presence.

A Reflection by Pope John Paul II*
Yes, dear brothers and sisters, our Christian communities must become genuine "schools: of prayer, where the meeting with Christ is expressed not just in imploring help but also in thanksgiving, praise, adoration, contemplation, listening and ardent devotion until the heart truly "falls in love." Intense prayer, yes, but it does not distract us from our commitment to history: by opening our heart to the love of God it also opens it to the love of our brothers and sisters, and makes us capable of shaping history according to God's plan.

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

*Pope John Paul II, Apostolic Letter, Novo Millenio Inuente, no. 33

~~~~~~~

I feel the need today to tell the story of a young lady from our parish who is a living witness to us all. She daily lives out the word of God by deed and example. Rachel (this is not her real name but those who know her will recognize who it is, and I cannot tell this story without a name for that is what will give this story life). Rachel lives this "life of love" every day. She began this journey of love when she was a university student and spent a summer in India caring for the indigent, sick and dying. Rachel says she felt the tug of our Lord to go to China after graduation, and as parents are wont to do, tried in all ways to discourage her going to this godless place in fear and love for her. I would have been no different if one of my children had said the same thing to me. For we love them and want the very best for them. But again His ways are not our ways.

Rachael did indeed go to China where she cares for handicapped, abandoned, and orphaned babies and children, most of whom are girls. Rachel openly witnesses to her faith daily. She travels by bus making several transfers to attend Mass daily. She and fellow employees pray and study together. She walks among the people with the assurance of the Holy Spirit. This tender, gentle, soft spoken young lady daily LIVES the Word of God.

Rachel says she could not say "no" to the call for she was compelled to do so. The Lord's summons to her was so strong that she could not deny Him. And so it is, that in the midst of the parish of St. John the Baptist (though far from us) , we have a living example of what it means to truly answer the call and live it daily.

And what of her parents? They are gracious, loving supporters of their gift, their treasure from God.

~~~~~~~
As for her presence in my life and how I have been touched by her, I say,
Thanks be to God!

Right to Life III

Quebec, 2003

Day Three
To Truth Through Amazement

Prayer
Father of life, unworthy though I am, implant within my heart an amazement that you have shared your life with me, and have destined me for eternal bliss.

A Reading from the First Letter of Saint John 1John 3:1-2
See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet so we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

(silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation give me the grace to live this day as a prelude and a preparation for eternal life with you.

A Reflection by Pope John Paul II*
Revelation therefore introduces into our history a universal and ultimate truth which stirs the human mind to ceaseless effort; indeed, it impels reason continually to extend the range of its knowledge until is senses that it has done all in its power, leaving no stone unturned...The truth of Christian Revelation, found in Jesus of Nazareth, enables all men and women to embrace the "mystery" of their own life... Christian Revelation is the true lodestar of men and women as they strive to make their way amid the pressures of an immanentist habit of mind and the constriction of a technocratic logic. It is the ultimate possibility offered of love which began with creation. To those wishing to know the truth, if they can look beyond themselves and their own concerns, there is given the possibility of taking full and harmonious possession of their lives precisely by following the path of truth.

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

*Pope John Paul II, Encyclical, Fides et Ration, nos, 14, 15.

~~~~~~~

"To those wishing to know the truth, if they can look beyond themselves and their own concerns, there is given the possibility of taking full and harmonious possession of their lives precisely by following the path of truth." As I read this, I was struck by the wealth of insight in these words. Imagine, Cathy. If you can be less selfish and more selfless you can follow the Way without those burdens that claim you when the "I" in you is overshadowed by concerns for the "other". The "truth" is I know and have experienced the "path of truth". But wanderlust causes me to roam and I have to stumble, twist an ankle or stub a toe in order to know I must find my way back to "the path." It doesn't take a rocket scientist to "read" this map.

Taking full and harmonious possession of my life means loving Him who made me and loving what he made, Me! Some days I am not so easy to love, by me or anyone else. Knowing that God always does, no matter what, is the hardest part of the concept to understand and yet since it is true I must glory in that and in turn love "me" as well. So it is that true self-love means giving up the "ego" as I envision it and accept the vision of Truth as it really is. God made me, God loves me, and I have been saved by His Son. Amen.

~~~~~~~
~Today I have again been amazed!~
Thanks be to God.

Right to Life II

Niagara Falls, 2003

Day Two
Living life for Eternity

Prayer
Father of life, here and now, reveal the greatness of your love in the inestimable value of each and every human life.

A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians 4:14--5:1
Know that the One who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and place us with you in his presence. Everything indeed is for you, so that the grace bestowed in abundance on more and more people may cause the thanksgiving to overflow for the glory of God. Therefore, we are not discouraged; rather, although our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. , as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory; but what is unseen is eternal.

(silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation, help us to see our earthly lives as but the beginning of the plans you have in store for us.

A Reflection by Pope Benedict XVI*
I believe. . .that our life tends in the end toward a discovery of love, toward receiving love and giving love. And the crucified Christ, who presents us with love lived out to the end, as he himself says in the Gospel of John, lifts this principle up into the realm of absolute reality. God himself is love. In this sense, love is indeed both the fundamental rule and ultimate aim of life. . . Human love always lays claim to eternity. Love contradicts death. . .This human love is turned from a promise into a fulfillment of reality only when it is wrapped in a love that can truly impart eternity. [Love] is what we are looking for and is the goal toward which our lives are directed. But within its own framework and on its own terms it directs our view toward God and brings us to wait upon God.

Our Father. . .
Hali Mary. . .
Glory Be. . .

*Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, God and the World, p. 185f

~~~~~~~

Example of his gracious love...

The Beginning of the Trip

I told you I would tell you about the beginning of the trip and I think this is a perfect time to do that. You see nearly a week ago, I began my journey to my mother's for a visit. I had packed and prepared for days in advance even to double checking the itinerary. Yours truly READ the itinerary incorrectly. I thought I left here at 10:30 a.m. en route to INDY. Well, that was not my departure time. It was my arrival time to INDY. I was to leave here at 8:30 a.m. I discovered this error at 8:10 a.m. My kind and loving husband, my belongings and yours truly left for the airport knowing that I would miss my flight. (The Hand of God: we did this in peace, calm, generosity of spirit and love.) When I arrived at the check-in counter I told the attendant that I had missed my flight and was told I needed to contact the carrier because I had purchased the ticket through Expedia. In the next hour and twenty minutes (Ron hoping that the cell phone battery was fully charged) Felice worked with all the airlines involved, but apparently none of them could resolve my dilemma. She was generous, kind and diligent. AND she was on overtime caring for me. We laughed together and I was lifted up by her understanding. (One could say that is her job. I prefer to see it as The Hand of God.) When all was said and done the only thing for me to do, she said was to present myself to the check-in counter again and ask if they would issue a new itinerary. I fully expected a full day's delay. When I approached the counter I explained to the agent again what I had been told and she started to work on my "project", when a gentleman standing behind her in blue jeans and a sweatshirt, asked her to take care of the man behind me, he would take care of me. ( The Hand of God: in less than ten minutes he had me rerouted from here to Atlanta, to Salt Lake City, to Billings with arrival only three hours later than anticipated.) My flight out was in about 20 minutes. Ron asked him about the penalty fee charged for the change of plans. ( The Hand of God: the gentleman said there is no time). That my dear friends is how my wonderful trip to my mother's started and I have to tell you that I did not experience one moment of anxiety or fear. Calm prevailed. And what of the $100.00? It will donated to the Newburgh Food Pantry in gratitude to The Hand of God.

God bless you all...

~~~~~~~
And thanks be to God!

Right to Life

(Niagara River, 2003)

The Knights of Columbus at our parish have generously supplied all members of St. John the Baptist the Novena for Life. January 21, 2008 is the Right to Life March in DC. I'm a couple of days late in starting, but beginning none-the-less and would ask you to pray it with me.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Day One
Created to Live with You

Prayer
Father of life, help us to long for the fullness of life and to know the wonder of what awaits us beyond the dimensions of this earthly existence.

A reading from the Book of Job 19:1, 23-27a
The Job answered and said: Oh, would that my words were written down! Would that they were inscribed in a record: That with an iron chisel and with lead they were cut in the rock forever! But as for me, I know that my Vindicator lives, and that he will at last stand forth upon the dust; Whom I myself shall see; my own eyes, not another's, shall behold him; And from my flesh I shall see God; my inmost being is consumed with longing.

(Silent reflection)

Prayer
God of all creation grant us the wisdom to understand fully the mystery that life has no meaning apart from you.

A Reflection by Pope John Paul II*
The Eucharist is a straining towards the goal, a foretaste of the fullness of joy promised by Christ (cf. Jn 15:11); it is in some way the anticipation of heaven, the "pledge of future glory". . . Those who feed on Christ in the Eucharist need not wait until the hereafter to receive eternal life; they already possess it on earth, as the first-fruits of a future fullness which will embrace man in his totality. For in the Eucharist we also received the pledge of our bodily resurrection at the end of the world; "He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day" (Jn 6:54)

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

*Ecclesia de Eucharistia, no. 18.

Thank you for this time of prayer with me. Tomorrow then.

~~~~~~~
Thanks be to God!!

Spreading the Love...

Much to my surprise I have been given the "Spread the Love Award" by Maria at Mommy of Four. To her I say thank you. It is a delight to be honored. But it is to all of you who have given me such encouragement that I feel obliged to say thank you as well. I do so enjoy this means of communication and education, because there is not one of you who has not taught me something, lifted my spirits and made me laugh, sometimes out loud with your contributions.

*!^!^!^!^!*

And so it is that I choose someone for this award. It is so difficult not feel as if you have left someone out! But here are a few of the ones who brighten my day. I have been blessed by so many that this is just the icing on a really wonderful cake. So to these who share their love I give you, Musings, Sailing by Starlight, Are We There Yet, What I Choose Today, View From the Pews, A Trucker's Wife, and Contemplative Haven, asylum for your refugee soul. And so it is for them to pass the baton!

~~~~~~~

~Thanks be to God~

The End of the Trip.

You know, seldom can one say that the end of ones trip is as eventful as the beginning. But today I am here to tell you about the END of my trip. Perhaps tomorrow I will tell you about how IT started. This is much better and I have to tell very fulfilling.

As I arrived home here, we waited for my 1 bag to arrive. Well, it didn't make the transfer from Frontier Airlines to American Airlines in Denver (Frontier located somewhere near Aurora; American Airlines somewhere near Downtown...[exaggeration]. As everyone knows the airport is in the middle of nowhere). I wasn't concerned because I suspected as much since I had to change airlines and there was nothing of any value that cannot be replaced except 3 skeins of yarn I shopped for with my mother, and those can be replaced at Hobby Lobby. (It's just that they are part of the precious memories of my time with Mom, Phil, Deb and Megan). Doesn't everyone knit or find something to remind them of a treasured experience?

Well, any way, the bag was not here. But, there was someone very special at the airport that Ron and I were supposed to meet. He is a student from Lithuania. He had traveled for two days from his home to Dublin ( where he slept in the airport), to Chicago, and finally Evansville. God love him, only one of his bags arrived the other is still in transit and he STILL wasn't at his final destination. He still had to travel to Owensboro, KY some 26 form miles down the road to get to Brescia University where he was to start his 1st semester as a freshman. He told us after he made arrangements for his luggage he was going to get a cab to Owensboro. NOT! We would take him there if he didn't mind. He didn't.

Well, as luck would have it, Ron had ordered pizza ( that's what I said I was hungry for) and it was already at home. So before he traveled down the road again he had "American Pizza" and they were off.

When they got to campus it was after 9:00 p.m. and even though they found his dorm the doors were locked. They finally found two students who showed them where a security guard could be found. The guard told them that he thought that he had seen the president of the university in his office and perhaps he would be of assistance...Sure enough Rev Larry Hostetter was indeed in his office and he would be happy to get this young man settled in.

Edvin seemed like a delightful young man, who in spite of his denial, had a rather good grasp of the English language. Ron and I wish him luck and pray for his success.

Isn't GRAND when HIS plan comes together? And isn't it altogether Grand to be USED by HIM!

*******

And for the privilege to aid in the work of our Lord, I say,
"Thanks be to God!"

I'm Off

In a few hours I leave for the land of Lewis and Clark. Like a child in anticipation of a grand adventure, I cannot sleep. The suit case was packed long ago...I've always been like that I get so excited that I pack days in advance thinking that will make time fly and it NEVER does! So before I begin my daily rosary, I thought I'd share with you all today's prayer for peace in my very small prayer card called, let Peace Fill My Heart, Prayers for a Peaceful World.

The world before me
is restored in beauty.
The world behind me
is restored in beauty.
The world below me
is restored in beauty.
All things around me
are restored in beauty
*
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.
It is finished in beauty.

Native American Prayer

~~~~~~~

Peace be with you all,
and
Thanks Be to God!

Rediscovering Catholicism

I must get this in before I fly to visit my mother in MT for a few days. I will be back on Saturday. Will try to visit when I can. Yes, my mother at 82 is pretty computer literate. I am really proud of her.

At any rate, this book is one of the nicest Christmas gifts I think I have gotten in some time, just because it was a real surprise. It has taken me so long to get to it because of all the other post I wanted to make. That was why the initial introduction to Matthew earlier.

~~~

First, I mentioned that we went to St. Brigid's Church Christmas Eve for Mass. The gift to the congregation, to all present, was this book by Matthew Kelly. The pastor got up at the end of Mass and said this book was a gift to all attending whether parishioner or guest. I was really dumbfounded. This parish takes formation seriously and has taken it to a higher level.

I started reading the book today. Yes, I forgot to list it as one of the books I wanted to read. It's interesting reading and not only that...when I turned the bookmark over that was inside the book I found that Matthew Kelly will be speaking at St. Brigid's April 20, 21, and 22. And if you are in the vicinity of Alpharetta, GA on those dates you would not be wasting your time if you went to hear him speak. He is in love with his God and the Church and it emanates in his enthusiasm.

No, this is not a paid announcement, but I believe that this young man is a missionary. And his mission is to bring us all into the loving arms of our Lord. Like Paul and Barnabas, Matthew goes to the people, encouraging them to share that goodness they have with others.

~*~*~*~*~
For Matthew and others like him,
I say, " Thanks be to God."

I was tagged...

before Christmas by Lisa for the Book Meme. Before I wait another day and I realize somewhere over Denver that I did not reply to this, I am going to do it now. It was really fun to do because it allowed me to think and reminisce about the books, new and old, that I have read. At my age it is good to challenge the memory. So here goes:

*1. One book that changed my life: My Other Self, in which Christ speaks to the Soul on living his life, by Clarence J. Enzler. I don't know if is still in print but it is much like Thomas a Kempis' Imitation of Christ, but I found I could identify with this interpretation better.

*2. One book that you have read more than once: Rome Sweet Home, by Scott Hahn. (not to mention all of Jane Austins books).

*3. One book that you want on a desert island: The Holy Bible.

*4. One book that made me laugh: If life's Bowl of Cherries,What Am I Doing In the Pits?, by Erma Bombeck. (A women who could help you find the humor in parenting.)

*5. One book that made me cry: The Diary of Ann Frank. Enough said.

*6. One book I wish had been written: Statistics for Dummies. I could have used it at SMWC as it was mandatory for graduation and I struggled to get that passing grade...and a more grateful student God has never seen!

*7. One book I wish had not been written: I don't know of any book I wish had not been written, but there are a few books I wish I had not READ.

*8. One book I am currently reading: Sweet Revenge, by Diane Mott Davidson. Her books are great books if you need a Colorado fix (and I usually do since I live in Indiana so far from my roots) and if you like mysteries.

*9. One book I've been meaning to read. Okay, I have tried to do the one book thing for as long as I can. So I have 4--count them 4--books I've been meaning to read. 1) A Christmas Beginning (a mystery and yes, I know it is no longer Christmastime) by Anne Perry; 2) Parish Priest by Douglas Brinkley and Julie M. Fenster; 3) Living the Catholic Faith, by Charles J. Chaput, OFM, Cap.; and 4) Murder on K Street, by Margaret Truman.

So there you go...I gave it my best shot. Now I must try to tag someone who has not already been tagged. If any of you whom I have tagged have already done this you can always pass it on for me to someone you know has not been tagged

Here are my choices Lisa at Unexpected Journey, Maria at Mommy of Four, and Danette at A crocus in the valley. I will drop in on these ladies and let them know what I have done. They are new pages to me and maybe this is a good way to welcome them to my "family". Good day to you all and ...

~~~~~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

Perfectly Yourself: 9 Lessons for Enduring Happiness

I want to introduce you to Matthew Kelly. Ron and I have had the privilege of hearing this young man speak. He was the guest of the Newman Centers at the University of Southern Indiana and the University of Evansville two years ago. He is dynamic and he has a wonderful message. He wants us all to be "A better version of ourselves". I'll share more with you later.

With witnesses to the faith like Matthew I say, Thanks be to God!

Microscopic Scrutiny

Ron took pictures of a few of his meteorite slices under a microscope. The color is not true. It is that steely color. Please enjoy!

Choices

This is such a wonderful reflection that I just had to share it. It says so well what it is we are all trying accomplish by stepping out with confidence in this New Year.

O sing to the Lord a New song,
for he has done marvelous things.
~Psalm 98:1~

~~~~~~~

The Baby sits in the middle of his super-duper play saucer, propped upright by a towel around his middle, his feet dangling in the air. His eyes are wide open, and his head just can't stop moving as his gaze darts from toy to toy.

Within seconds, he starts wailing. It's all just too much. The wealth of amusing and developmentally helpful plastic objects has overwhelmed him with choices.
As the new year begins and we contemplate what we want to make of it, our reaction may be similar to the baby's. Evidence of our faults surrounds us, and opportunities for growth and change overwhelm us. Which way should we go? What should come first?

The psalmist give us a different idea. Instead of beginning with scrutiny, why not star5t this year with a new song: one of openhearted praise?

***

Lord, I thank you for my life and for the chance to grow that this new year brings.

from A Catholic Woman's Book of Days

by May Welborn

~~~~~~~

It seems when I can't find the words to express what I want to say, the Holy Spirit guides me to the location where the answer awaits. Thanks be to GOD!

The Meteorite Metamorphosis

Do you remember this picture, those "neolithic-looking" rocks, that I thought were so ugly,The Traveler is Home? Today Ron finished sanding some of his meteorite slices. He cleaned up one of the slices and then etched it. I hope you enjoy seeing the change and I hope I was able to capture the process adequately.

This is before...

The process...





The finished product. It is amazing to see how the beauty of this gift of the heavens emerges from the stone.

~*~**~*~**~*~
Thanks be to God.

From the Blue Book...

Thought I would just send this along. Just because I didn't know all about the designation 'til I read this. I really have a lot more to learn about our history and traditions. ( It has probably been explained to me on a number of occasions from the good sisters to a homily at Mass but I just didn't "hear" it until now.)

MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

Today's feast has had many themes over the years.

It is the feast of Mary, the Mother of God--celebrating the title that was controversial in the early centuries. The question was: Although Mary is the Mother of Jesus, can she be called "Mother of God?" The Council of Ephesus in 431 declared that she could, and the feast of Mary under that title has been celebrated ever since.

Today is also the Octave of Christmas. It has also been traditional to celebrate the naming and circumcision of Jesus on this date, for Luke says that it was eight days after his birth that Jesus fully became a member of God's chosen people.

In recent years, today has also be designated as a day of prayer for world peace.

And, of course, today is New Year's Day.

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.
~Luke 2:19~

Studies have indicated that New Year's resolutions are not always effective. We try to make too many of them and we don't think them through or prepare for them very well. They don't have roots.

Taking a cue from the Gospel, instead of making resolutions, maybe we should think of making reflections. For example, where is my life moving?

The Gospel says that the shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem where they found Mary, Joseph and the infant lying in a manger. There is movement here. The shepherds moved toward Christ.

My life has a movement to it, a flow. Life is never inert, standing still. I can direct my life, or I can let it drift, but I must never have the illusion that it is standing still.

Where is my life moving?
Toward God...or away from God?
It's definitely moving in one direction or the other.

~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~

For the free will He has given me to make the "move", thanks be to God!

***

As an aside. Was anyone else surprised by the revelation that, not
until his circumcision did Our Lord become a member of the "People of God"?
Just as we become children of God through baptism, so Jesus became part of
the race He chose to be His people through the covenant sign of circumcision.

***It never occurred to me! WOW!!***

Vade in Pace!

The Eye of God

I took the picture as we flew out of Dublin two years ago to return to England where we visited with our daughter Laura and her family while they were in residence there for a year. This picture is a constant reminder to me of the awesomeness of our God and the peace and serenity that is His to offer us. It is with this in mind that I offer this in reflection as an extension of all the wonderful offerings I have read this day regarding Peace and the New Year granted us by our Maker.

~*~*~*~

The Romans bid each other farewell with Vade in pace!--"Go in peace!"

Since the renewal of the Liturgy we Catholics have grown accustomed to this farewell greeting, too. It is interesting to note that Our Lord's disciples would have been familiar with the Romans' use of this leave-taking message. It also clarifies Our Lord's farewell to them, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you" (John 14:27). His peace is not the same as the everyday nicety the Romans exchanged routinely.

The few thoughts [here] are meant to remind us through reading and reflection that the Lord's peace is heritage for every circumstance, no matter the happening. It's His gift along with--inseparable from--His cross. Dante caught it all: In voluntate eius pax nostra, "in His will is our Peace."

[This reflection] also warn[s] us that the theme song in hell may easily be: "I Did It My Way." The world sets before us one avenue of peace, the Lord another.

While life here is still ours, may we seek after His peace and pursue it. And then we'll know its fullness eternally.

As the Lord gives, not as the world, Vade in Pache!+

from Latin Sayings for Spiritual Growth
By Archabbot Lambert Reilly, O.S.B.

~*~*~*~


And so with the Old Year soon to be replaced by the New Year, I say, with much sincerity to all, "May His Peace be with you." And in gratitude for all who have touched my life so tenderly this year I say, "Thanks be to GOD!"

The Holy Family

"Then he went down with them and came to
Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother
treasured all these things in her heart."
~Luke 2:51~

~*~

A few days after Christmas, we celebrate Joseph, Mary, and Jesus: the holy family. I would like my family to be holy, too, but I don't know. My family is so far from ideal; we are scattered, we are blended, and we are all such individuals.

But holiness is there: in mutual love, in moments of grace, in tenacious commitment, and in daily forgiveness.

I think that's holiness. Or at least it's a start.

~*~

Jesus, I pray for my family. May we grow in holiness
and mutual service, in imitation of your holy family.

from A Catholic Woman's Book of Days
By Amy Welborn

~*~

Thanks be to God!

It's Sunday!!!

Whew!! With all the holiday festivities, travel and being off work, I've been at a loss as to what day of the week it really is...I have had more false Sundays in the last week (days that feel like Sunday) that it's a relief to have a REAL one. Does that sound strange?

At any rate I wanted to share this with all who have not visited Esther's domain A Catholic Mom in Hawaii, http://hicatholicmom.blogspot.com/. It is the Epiphany Blessing. It has a wonderful history and even more important it is a wonderful tradition. She also has posted a lovely prayer to the Holy Family.

~*~*~*~*~
Thanks be to God!!!

Christmas Journey

This journey begins December 22, as this is the "off year" for the family gathering. So those who live close came for an early celebration. Aunt Mimi (Marianne), Wes, Annie and the Girls traveled from INDY to join Laura, Roy, Kellie and Neil for the traditional clam chowder and gift sharing. Neil asked that this year after the blessing of the gifts that we each mention what makes us thankful at Christmas. The treasure came that evening from four year old Ainsley, through Mama because she was too shy to tell us, who said she was thankful because, should she die, she would see Jesus in heaven. (It still brings tears to my eyes!). The wisdom of the "wee ones." And so it was that we began the revelry of the evening. There was much fun and surprises!!!


Early Christmas Eve we began our journey to Georgia to visit with Jimmy. Mass at St. Bridget's was glorious with the music and the beautiful colors of Christmas. I reflected at the time that Scott Hahn was right when he said that Mass is Heaven on earth! Christmas Day was quiet and restful except for the occasional trek out in the rain with Duchess, our "puppy".

On the feast of St. Stephen we were joined by David, Kelly and the boys from Charlotte. The gift of Christmas is being with family and MY gift was complete. The Keller treasury is full for another year with memories worth far more that gold and longer lasting than any gift that may soon become obsolete.

The Treasures

Ainsley, Kelly, Neil and Lindsey eating the Chowder

The annual "under the tree" picture

Group hug with Aunt Mimi and Wally-dog somewhere in the middle

Cameron and Jonathan at Uncle Jimmy's

What's that Andrew?

Ben started reading as soon as they were unwrapped.

Breakfast at Waffle House before we left for home.

Duchess, guiding the way home.
~~~~~~~

We had such a wonderful time. And just a note in passing...I finally surprised Ron with his gift after 40 years!!!!! There is a reason to persevere!

Thanks be to God!!!!!

Christmas Memory

As the Christmas festivities begin here at the Keller's today with the arrival of the INDY contingent, Wes, Annie and the Girls and Aunt Mimi (Marianne) I am reminded of the times I spent with the Folks (Aunt Mary, Aunt Rose, Aunt Ida and Pat). The house on Milwaukee Street was always a warm and cozy place to be any time, but especially at Christmas. The tree was decorated with such care. The nativity was placed with much reverence.

And most of all there was music and singing. We'd all gather around the piano in the living room, Pat would play and we would sing carols. My favorite secular tune of all has been for some time, Christmas in Killarney. It's a light and lively tune that always reminds of the grand times we had as family there. And so every year, though tattered and warn it comes out again and is sung again, if by no one but me.

Memories are wonderful treasures we carry with us and often share with others. Today is the day I begin to gather some new treasures. We will celebrate the Birth of our Lord early here so that Ron and I can travel to visit the rest of the Clan in Georgia on Christmas Eve.

Much to my delight I will again, this year. be able to visit with all my children and grandchildren. That is a gift greater than any under the tree. So I will be away for a few days...

This is my heartfelt wish for everyone. That God bless you with the tender love only a father can give, the support and comfort of our brother, Jesus, whose birthday we celebrate, and the courage of the Holy Spirit to accept the challenges that will visit us as we journey to our eternal celebration. God Bless you all as I wish you all a Merry, Joyous Christmas!

*******

Reflection: "What good is it if Mary gave birth to the Son of God centuries ago, if I do not also give birth to the Son of God in my time and culture?"

*******

Thanks be to GOD!!

The Twelve Days of Christmas

A Gift sent to me by Marianne, my daughter, reminds me of the days when I was teaching religious education. It was one of those challenges you give the kids to see if they are really interested in learning about our Church history and Christmas is a perfect time to use this "challenge". And with each challenge came a reward. Whether this may be a true story or only a legend makes no difference, it is a beautiful way to catechise.

*There is one Christmas Carol that has always baffled many people. What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree have to do with Christmas? Well, consider this...


*From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.

*The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.


*Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.


*Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.


*The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.


*The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.


*The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.


*Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.


*The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.


*Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.


*The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

*The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

*The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

~~~~~~~

Now when you hear or sing this Christmas Carol you may find yourself reminded of the principles upon which the Church was founded as well as the beautiful words used to instruct us in the Faith.

~^~^~^~^~

Thanks be to God.

Proclamation from a Saint...

"Make yourself familiar with the angels, and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen, they are present with you."--St. Francis de Sales

(Doctor of the Church and known as the "gentleman saint")

~~~~~~~

For His gifts and treasures, thanks be to God.

The father of John the Baptist...

From The Little Blue Book:

The angel Gabriel said to Zechariah, "Do not be
afraid, because your prayer has been heard. Your
wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall
name him John. And you will have joy and gladness,
any many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be
great in the sight of the Lord. . .He will be filled
with the Holy spirit even from his mother's womb.
~Luke 1:5-25~

*Zechariah was one of approximately 18,000 Jewish priest in Palestine at the time of Jesus. They were divided into 24 groups of 750 each. Twice a year each group came to the Temple in Jerusalem to serve for a week. Their roles during this week of service were chose by lot. Some of them, in a given week, weren't chosen to do anything.

*Each morning, four lots were cast to decide who would carry out the four tasks at the altar. Then in the afternoon, a fifth lot was cast to determine who would enter the Holy Place to offer the evening incense. This extraordinary privilege usually came only once in a lifetime.

*In Luke's account, when the afternoon lot was cast, Zechariah was chosen to enter the Holy Place and offer the evening incense. It was there that the angel appeared to him to announce the birth of John.

~~~~~~~

*The angel tells Zechariah that his prayer has been heard. In the story leading up to this point, Luke hadn't told us what Zechariah was praying for. Now we know. He had been praying for Israel, of course, as a Jewish priest would do. But he and Elizabeth, unrealistic though it may e seemed because of their advanced years, had also been praying for a child.

*Three times in Luke we hear angels say, "do not be afraid"--to Zechariah here, to Mary at the Annunciation, and to the shepherds in the field. In Luke's Gospel, Jesus will also say those same words five time during his public life.

**Anything in particular you'd really like to pray for?
**Anything going on in your life that has you scared?
**Listen.
**God is saying to you: "Do not be afraid."

~*~*~*~

For the comfort and encouragement given, thanks be to God.

Whatever you do, do it ASAP!

Ever wonder about the abbreviation A.S.A.P.? Generally we think of it in terms of even more hurry and stress in our lives. Maybe if we think of this
abbreviation in a different manner, we will begin to find a new way to deal with those rough days along the way.

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

There's work to do, deadlines to meet;

You've got no time to

spare,

But as you hurry and scurry-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER



In the midst of family chaos,

"Quality time" is rare.

Do your best; let God do the rest-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.



It may seem like your worries

Are more than you can bear.

Slow down and take a breather-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER



God knows how stressful life is;

He wants to ease our cares,

And He'll respond to all your needs

A.S.A.P. - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

*******

Just had to save this message from Maggie...and this is the best place to do that!!! Wishing all a GOOD DAY!!!

~^~^~^~^~
And thanks be to God!!!

How long is Advent...

This is the title of an interesting section in The Little Blue Book distributed to us on the First Sunday of Advent at church. The Little Blue Book is based on the writings of Bishop Ken Untener who was inspired to create the Little Books for the people of his Diocese of Saginaw. Since his death in 2004 The Little Books have been a legacy carried on by Catherine Haven with the help of Sr. Nancy Ayotte, IHM. The book is full of wonderful reflection and instruction. This was yesterday's entry.

How long is Advent?

Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before December 25. It always has four Sundays, but the total number of days can vary. For example:
*If Christmas falls on Monday, then Advent last three weeks and a day.
*If Christmas falls on a Sunday, Advent lasts four full weeks

*******

Regardless of when Advent begins, every year the same Scripture reading are used for weekdays from December 17-24. The Gospels on those days describe the events leading up to the birth of Christ:

**December 17: The genealogy of Jesus (Matthew)
**December 18: The annunciation to Joseph (Matthew)
**December 19: The annunciation to Zechariah (Luke)
**December 20: The annunciation of Mary (Luke)
**December 21: Mary's visit to Elizabeth (Luke)
**December 22: Mary's "Magnificat" (Luke
**December 23: The birth of John the Baptist (Luke)
**December 24: The "Benedictus" of Zechariah (Luke)

~~~~~~

It's a map for the journey to Bethlehem. Isn't it great to have a "AAA Trip tick" set forth by the church for this journey? Isn't it funny that I had to have this itinerary pointed out to me? (Shaking my head!) The Church certainly knows how to give a wonderful guided tour!

~*~*~*~*~
Thanks be to God!!!

Peace on Earth

Here it is the 3rd Sunday of Advent! God has blessed me in so many ways. Yesterday another birthday came and went. In gratitude, I thank God for my health, family, friends and the opportunity to live another day in His love. Today, I am still praying for peace on this HIS earth. So this I offer to you as it was offered to me and the members of St. John the Baptist Church of Newburgh.

LITANY OF NON-VIOLENCE

Provident God, aware of my own brokenness,
I ask the gift of courage to identify how and where
I am in need of conversion in order to live in
solidarity with all Earth's people.
*
Deliver me from the violence of superiority and disdain..
Grant me the desire, and the humility, to listen
with special care to those whose experiences
and attitudes are different from my own.
*
Deliver me from the violence of greed and privilege.
Grant me the desire, and the will, to live
simply so other may have their just share of the Earth's resources.
*
Deliver me from the silence that gives consent
to abuse, war, and evil.
Grant me the desire, and courage, to risk speaking
and acting for the common good.
*
Deliver me from the violence of irreverence,
exploitation and control.
Grant me the desire, and the strength, to act
responsibly within the cycle of creation..
*
God of love, mercy and justice,
Acknowledging my complicity in those attitudes,
actions and words which perpetuate violence,
I beg the grace of a non-violent heart.
*
Amen
*
Sisters of Providence
St. Mary-of-the-Woods,
Terre Haute, Indiana

~~~~~~~
Because of His abundance of graces given
to me at all time, I say, "Thanks be to God!"

Tthe Littlest Angel

***

Of all the stories I cherish from my childhood, the story of the Littlest Angel is by far my favorite. My godmother, Aunt Rosemary, gave me the story on record, narrated by Loretta Young. And I had as much anticipation waiting for the time when I could listen to it as I did in anticipation of Christmas.

...On the day of the miracle, the Littlest Angel proudly placed his small box before the throne of God. The littlest Angel trembled as the box was opened. There was a butterfly with golden wings, a sky-blue egg from a bird's nest, two white stones from a river bank, and a strap from the collar of his dog. The voice of God spoke, "of all the gifts this small box pleases me most. I accept this gift in the name of the Child Jesus born this night in Bethlehem." The box began to glow. It rose until it hung over the stable where the Son of God had just been born. The box would forever be known as the "the shining star of Bethlehem.

So you see I knew there was hope for me. For as children we want to know we can please God. The validation came to me in this story. Whatever I did, no matter how plain, it would please God. How is it we forget that when we "grow" up?

>*< >*< >*<

Every breath of air and ray of light and heat,
every beautiful prospect, is, as it were,
the skirts of their garments, the weaving of
the robes of those whose faces see God.
John Henry Newman

~~~~~~~

Thanks be to God!!!

New Awakening

As I awoke this morning I realized I was saying the Our Father. Not too hard to understand. A lot of people awaken saying the Our Father in the morning as a matter of course just as I did. But this morning I had a New Awakening. I was struck by the fact that THIS day I said "Thy will be done!" I can only surmise that the excerpt from Contemplation Haven, Asylum for Your Refugee Soul made a real impact on me yesterday. She shared a wonderful excerpt by Hans Urs von Balthasar called Maybe Tomorrow. Wow! It must have had more of an impression on me than I thought!!! TODAY I hear myself saying, "Thy will be done" now...not tomorrow...today! I'm really going to TRY today!!!

~~~~~~~

Thanks be to God!

Wisdom of G.K. Chesterton

Though my birthday is still a few days away I received the most wonderful book of reflections from my dear friend, Martha. (You might remember her from my entry on friendship in May this year). I have always love G.K. Chesterton's Father Brown Mysteries. Now, I am so delighted with this gift that I have to share today's reflection with you from the "Wisdom of G.K. Chesterton".

Levity and Levitation

Angels can fly because they can take themselves lightly. This has always been the instinct of Christendom, and especially the instinct of Christian art. Remember how Fra Angelico represented all his angels, not only as birds, bu almost as butterflies. Remember how the most earnest medieval art was full of light and fluttering draperies, of quick and capering feet...In the old Christian pictures the sky over every figure is like a blue or gold parachute. Every figure seems ready to fly up and float about in the heavens. The tattered cloak of the beggar will bear him up like the rayed plumes of the angels. But the kings in their heavy gold and the proud in their robes of purple will all of their nature sink downward, for pride cannot rise to levity or levitation. Pride is the downward drag of all things into an easy solemnity. One "settles down" into a sort of selfish seriousness; but one has to rise to a gay self-forgetfulness. A man "falls" into a brown study; he reaches up at a blue sky. (ORTHODOXY)

REVIVE THE SPIRIT

For thus says the high and lofty one
who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
I dwell in the high and holy place,
and also with those who are contrite and humble in spirit,
to revive the spirit of the humble,
and to revive the heart of the contrite.
Isaiah 57:15

PRAYER
Holy God, bear us upward toward you. Make our spirits
lighter, more joyful. Teach us how to live without fretting,
without the anxieties that so often obscure our view
of you in your high and holy place, that heaven which is
our true home.

ADVENT ACTION
If you live near an art museum, plan a day trip there and spend an hour or more
in the medieval section. if not, find art books at a local library or search the internet
for images of great art. As you look at the painting, consider what Chesterton
says about the lightness, the "gay self-forgetfulness" of some of the figures. Try
to appreciate the art while also opening yourself to it as a mode for devotion.

~~~~~~~

I hope you find this to be a source of reflection you might find as useful and uplifting as I have found it to be. Gee, aren't birthdays grand!!!

~~~~~~~
Thanks be to God!!!