As we celebrate the great solemnity of Easter, I offer my deepest wishes for a truly blessed Easter to each member of my extended family, each of my friends and associates, each of my readers, and each of the people of this region!!!
I ask a special blessing for those who are ill, alone, and/or away from home on this day.
“Pope Francis called on Christians to let the risen Jesus enter their lives and to welcome him with trust as a friend during the Church’s most holy night of the year.”
The National Catholic Register has offered a report on the Easter Vigil celebration at the Vatican, including excerpts from his homily.
To access the complete National Catholic Register report, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Welcome Jesus as a Friend, Pope Encourages at Easter Vigil (30 MAR 13)
“Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.” – Blessed Pope John Paul II
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways in which You use music and/or the dramatic arts to help us reflect on Your Gospel message.
In a recent post, Deacon Greg Kandra offered some perspectives on Pope Francis.
To access his post, please visit:
The Deacon’s Bench: Pope Francis: the medium and the messenger (29 MAR 13)
“For a stalk to grow or a flower to open there must be time that cannot be forced; nine months must go by for the birth of a human child; to write a book or compose music often years must be dedicated to patient research. To find the mystery there must be patience, interior purification, silence, waiting.” - Blessed Pope John Paul II
Today the Church celebrates Good Friday of the Passion of the Lord. The assigned readings are Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9; and John 18:1-19:42. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 31 (Psalm 31:2, 6, 12-13, 15-17, 25).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 31 "Prayer to an Ever-faithful God and Father"
Reflections on today’s observance:
Marcellino D'Ambrosio, PhD: Good Friday & the Crucifixion: The Victory of the Cross
The New Theological Movement: A chronology of the passion and death of Jesus (4 APR 12)
Msgr. Charles Pope: Whose Really on Trial Here? Jesus, Pilate or You? (5 APR 12)
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for taking upon Yourself, through Your passion and death, my sins and the sins of all Your people.
In a recent post, Tony Rossi, of The Christophers, offered a refection on Truth, Beauty, and Goodness in our lives.
To access his complete post, please visit:
Christopher Closeup: True Beauty Can Change the World (19 MAR 13)
“Jesus Christ has taken the lead on the way of the cross. He has suffered first. He does not drive us toward suffering but shares it with us, wanting us to have life and to have it in abundance.” – Blessed Pope John Paul II
Today the Church celebrates Holy Thursday. The day is celebrated as the beginning of the priesthood and the institution of the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. The assigned readings for the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper are Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; and John 13:1-15. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 116 (Psalm 116:12-13, 15-18).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 116 “Thanksgiving to a Faithful God Who Saves”
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to pass from this world to the Father. He loved his own in the world and he loved them to the end. The devil had already induced Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot, to hand him over. So, during supper, fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, he rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist.
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Master, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing, you do not understand now, but you will understand later.”
Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “Unless I wash you, you will have no inheritance with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Master, then not only my feet, but my hands and head as well.”
Jesus said to him, “Whoever has bathed has no need except to have his feet washed, for he is clean all over; so you are clean, but not all.” For he knew who would betray him; for this reason, he said, “Not all of you are clean.”
So when he had washed their feet and put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.”
Reflections related to this celebration:
Msgr. Charles Pope: The Seating Plan at the Last Supper (4 APR 12)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for Holy Thursday: Mass of the Lord’s Supper (27 MAR 12)
Deacon Keith Fournier: Self Giving Love and Washing Feet (28 MAR 13)
Rome Reports: What does the Church celebrate on Holy Thursday? (4 APR 12)
Thank you, Lord, for instituting the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper and for the great, great gift that this sacrament is.
“The first reading from [a recent daily] Mass is an extraordinary moral tale from the Book of Daniel. It is the story of Susanna. The full passage (which is quite lengthy) can be found here: Daniel 13:1-62. Interestingly it is missing from Protestant Bibles which use a truncated version of the Book of Daniel. As such it is a lesser known passage, even among Catholics since it is only read on a weekday Mass once a year.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the role of conscience in our lives.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: On Honesty and Sincerity as Seen in a Commercial (15 MAR 13)
“God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say ‘thank you?’” – William A. Ward
This week, the week of 24-30 March, is being observed as National Tsunami Preparedness Week. During this observance, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other participating Federal and state agencies are urging coastal residents and visitors to be prepared for a tsunami and encouraging communities to become TsunamiReady.
For more information about this observance, please visit:
National Tsunami Preparedness Week
Background information:
National Weather Service: TsunamiReady
“A prayerful reading of the Gospels readings on Monday through Wednesday of Holy Week will aid to deepen our contemplation of the Passion of Christ. The Church in her wisdom has provided these Gospel passages to prepare us to celebrate the Paschal Mystery.”
In a recent commentary, Father Michael Najim (Director of Spiritual Formation at the Seminary of Our Lady of Providence and chaplain at La Salle Academy, both in Providence, RI) offers a reflection on the sacred humanity of Jesus as a preparation for the Sacred Triduum.
To access Fr. Najim’s complete post, please visit:
“‘Just take things day by day’ always seems to be popular advice when we’re going through something tough in our lives. But I think it’s more helpful in the spiritual life to take that idea a step further.”
In a recent commentary, Erin Franco reflected on the need to be present and faithful to what God is asking of us in each little moment and situation of each day.
To access Erin’s complete post, please visit:
“None of our men are ‘experts.’ We have most unfortunately found it necessary to get rid of a man as soon as he thinks himself an expert because no one ever considers himself expert if he really knows his job. A man who knows a job sees so much more to be done than he has done, that he is always pressing forward and never gives up an instant of thought to how good and how efficient he is. Thinking always ahead, thinking always of trying to do more, brings a state of mind in which nothing is impossible. The moment one gets into the ‘expert’ state of mind a great number of things become impossible.” – Henry Ford, Sr.
Thank you, Lord, for giving each of us a sense of humor and the many ways You encourage us to appropriately use it.
“The longer I blog, the more I read, the more I become convinced that there’s an underground network of Christian people who have decided that laughter is a sin. I’ve been chastised for my sarcasm, seen others ridiculed for their satire, and read the comments of too-many-to-count who seem to think that faith equals no sense of humor.”
In a recent commentary, Rebecca Frech reflected on God’s sense of humor as depicted in His creation.
To access Rebecca’s complete post, please visit:
Ignitum Today: God Has a Sense of Humor — Do you? (21 MAR 13)
“Peace is the work of justice indirectly, in so far as justice removes the obstacles to peace; but it is the work of charity (love) directly, since charity, according to its very notion, causes peace.” – Saint Thomas Aquinas
As we continue of celebration of Palm Sunday, I offer this version of Twila Paris singing “Lamb of God” (with scenes from The Passion of the Christ):
Today the Church celebrates Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord. The assigned readings are Luke 19:28-40, Isaiah 50:4-7, Philippians 2:6-11, and Mark 14:1-15:47. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 22 (Psalm 22:8-9, 17-20, 23-24).
The Gospel reading for the procession with the palms is as follows:
Jesus proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem. As he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. He said, “Go into the village opposite you, and as you enter it you will find a colt tethered on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. And if anyone should ask you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you will answer, ‘The Master has need of it.’”
So those who had been sent went off and found everything just as he had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying this colt?” They answered, “The Master has need of it.”
So they brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks over the colt, and helped Jesus to mount. As he rode along, the people were spreading their cloaks on the road; and now as he was approaching the slope of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of his disciples began to praise God aloud with joy for all the mighty deeds they had seen. They proclaimed: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.” Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He said in reply, “I tell you, if they keep silent, the stones will cry out!”
Reflections on this day and on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales; Sundays Salesian: Palm/Passion Sunday (March 24, 2013)
Marcellino D'Ambrosio, Ph.D.: Passion Sunday - Palm Sunday
Catholic Online: The Happy Priest: Palm Sunday and the Humility of God (24 MAR 13)
Word on Fire: Sermon 637: Which King? Whose Kingdom?: Palm Sunday
Dr. Scott Hahn: Passion Sunday (March 24th 2013 - Passion of the Christ)
The Word Encountered: In Human Likeness (Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion C)
ST. Cyril of Alexandria: Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Thank you, Lord, for Your good plans for each of us and for the many ways in which You unfold these plans.
“For the good of all people, the care of the poor and the future of the Earth, religions must cooperate in reminding modern men and women that God exists and has a plan for their lives and their behavior, Pope Francis said.”
A recent Catholic News Service article offered a reflection by Pope Francis on the importance of promoting friendship and respect among men and women of different religious traditions.
To access the complete article, please visit:
Catholic News Service: Pope says religions must cooperate to remind humanity God exists (20 MAR 13)
“There is no evil to be faced that Christ does not face with us. There is no enemy that Christ has not already conquered. There is no cross to bear that Christ has not already borne for us, and does not now bear with us.” – Blessed Pope John Paul II
Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of being able to read and for all who have taught and encouraged me in the development of my reading skills.
“The Word Honesty comes from the honestas meaning an honor received from others, a kind of ‘standing in honor’ before others (honor + stas (to stand)). It’s an interesting insight in the word that most people are willing to be a little phony in order to get vague appreciation or to be thought of well. (The whole cosmetics industry is based on this). But when one is actually ‘honored’ in a formal way by others, there is an elevated sense that we need to truthfully deserve the honor. And thus honor calls forth honest.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the the one aspect of the role of honesty and sincerity in our lives.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: On Honesty and Sincerity as Seen in a Commercial (15 MAR 13)
“Let us act on what we have, since we have not what we wish.” – Blessed John Henry Newman
Thank you, Lord, for the fountain of grace – sanctifying grace and its own special sacramental graces – that each of the sacraments is.
“If the priests of Buenos Aires aim to make ‘every effort’ to help their fellow citizens approach the first sacrament, they can rest assured that they have the archbishop by their side. For Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio the important things are these.”
A recent post by Deacon Greg Kandra offered an anecdote that revealed the attitude of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis, toward the sacrament of Baptism.
To access Deacon Greg’s post, please visit:
To access the original article, please visit:
“He who waits to do a great deal of good at once will never do anything. Life is made up of little things. True greatness consists in being great in little things.” – Samuel Johnson
This week, the week of 18-22 March, is being observed as Flood Safety Awareness Week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) advises that it floods somewhere in the United States or its territories nearly every day of the year. Flooding causes more damage in the U.S. than any other weather-related event . . . with an average of eight billion dollars a year in the past thirty years.
NWS also advise that flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., claiming on average nearly one hundred lives a year. Most of the deaths occur in motor vehicles when people attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Many other lives are lost when people walk into or near flood waters. This happens because people underestimate the force and power of water – especially when it is moving.
For specific flood safety awareness information, please visit:
National Weather Service: Flood Safety Awareness Week
Facebook: US National Weather Service Boston MA
Background information:
Flooding – History and Causes Factsheet
Flooding – What to Know Factsheet
FEMA: National Flood Insurance Program: Flooding & Flood Risks
Thank you, Lord, for those who strive to those who work in fields related to archaeology and for the many ways they help us learn about our past.
“The unprecedented level of media devoted to the election of Pope Francis is a clear indicator of the importance of the Church today, a Catholic author and blogger reflected.
“‘The main thing that struck me is what I’d call the paradox of irrelevancy,’ Brandon Vogt told CNA March 14, ‘which is the world saying the Church is irrelevant but then turning its attention to the Church.’”
In a recent Catholic News Agency interview, Brandon Vogt commented on the election of Pope Francis and its importance as reflected in the attention given to this event by the secular media and by non-Catholics.
To access the complete article, please visit:
Catholic News Agency: Pope media frenzy shows Church’s relevance, author notes (15 MAR 13)
“Humility and knowledge in poor clothes excel pride and ignorance in costly attire.” – William Penn
“In recent weeks leading up to the Conclave, and this day after, an awful lot of people, Catholic and Non-Catholic, are trotting out their agendas and looking for the new Pope to somehow bring he Church into conformity with what they want and demand. . . .
“The worldly experts often opine that unless the Church surrenders to this agenda, we are destined to be empty halls and ‘irrelevant’ to the modern scene.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the Church as a sign of contradiction and the need to address ourselves to the conscience of a world that seems “bent on going morally insane.”
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” – Dr. Stephen Covey
The week of 17-23 March is being observed as National Poison Prevention Week, an initiative designed as a means for local communities to raise awareness of the dangers of unintentional poisonings and to take such preventive measures as the dangers warrant.
For additional information related to National Poison Prevention Week, please visit:
Poison Prevention Week Council
Facebook: Poison Prevention Week Council
U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services: National Poison Prevention Week
Presidential Proclamation -- National Poison Prevention Week, 2013
Background information:
Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The assigned readings are 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16; Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22; and Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 89 (Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29).
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.
Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."
When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.
Reflections on this day and on Saint Joseph:
Pope Paul VI: Homily on the Feast of Saint Joseph, 1969
John Paul II: Apostolic Exhortation: Redemptoris Custos (Guardian of the Redeemer)
“Pope Francis urged the College of Cardinals to courageously persevere in finding new ways to evangelize.
“‘We have the certainty that the Holy Spirit gives his Church, with his powerful breath, the courage to persevere and to search for new ways to evangelize,’ Pope Francis said on March 15 in the Vatican’s Clementine Hall.”
A recent Catholic News Agency article reported on the encouragement Pope Francis recently gave, collectively and individually, to the College of Cardinals.
To access the complete article, please visit:
Catholic News Agency: Pope tells cardinals: discover new ways to evangelize (15 MAR 13)
“My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing his designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to him, and not to spoil his work by our shortcomings.” – Saint Isaac Jogues
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, American households waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water each year due to leaky pipes, toilets, showerheads and other fixtures, but fixing leaks can be easy and inexpensive. During the 4th annual Fix a Leak Week, 18-24 March, the EPA’s WaterSense program will be striving to educate Americans about the importance of fixing leaks around the home, which will save water and nearly 10 percent on utility bills
WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by EPA, is designed to protect the future of the nation’s water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and services. Since the program’s inception in 2006, EPA reports that WaterSense has helped consumers save 125 billion gallons of water and more than $2 billion in water and energy bills. Consumers may find WaterSense-labeled products at retail locations across the country.
For more information about the WaterSense program, please visit:
Thank you, Lord, for Your constant call to return to You when we turn away from You.
“Pope Francis has had his first ‘press conference.’ This wasn't a Q/A but rather a papal audience for those who've been covering the story of the transition in the papacy.”
In a recent commentary, Father Austin Fleming, pastor of Holy Family Parish, Concord, MA, offered a link to a report on the first meeting of Poe Francis with members of the press.
To access his complete post, please visit:
A Concord Pastor Comments: A simple blessing - for everyone (16 MAR 13)
“I look to the gracious protection of that Divine Being whose strengthening support I humbly solicit, and whom I fervently pray to look down upon us all. May it be among the dispensations of His Providence to bless our beloved country with honors and length of days; may her ways be pleasantness and peace!” – Martin Van Buren (in his Inaugural Address, 4 March 1837)
Today the Church celebrates the Fifth Sunday of Lent. The assigned readings are Isaiah 43:16-21, Philippians 3:8-14, and John 8:1-11. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 126 (Psalm 126:1-6).
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them.
Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?”
They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they?
Has no one condemned you?”
She replied, “No one, sir.”
Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.”
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Fifth Sunday of Lent (March 17, 2013)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for 5th Sunday of Lent: March 17, 2013 (16 MAR 13)
Word on Fire: Sermon 636: Every Saint Had a Past Every Sinner Has a Future: 5th Sunday of Lent
Dr. Scott Hahn: Something New (March 17th 2013 - 5th Sunday of Lent)
The Word Engaged: Resenting Forgiveness (Fifth Sunday of Lent C)
Thank you, Lord, for telephone calls and written messages that encourage us and/or lift our spirits.
“He thought it was a joke. The young doorman at the Jesuit motherhouse in Rome never expected to receive a phone call from Pope Francis.
“The Holy Father had to patiently and kindly convince the doorman who he was in order to speak with the Father General of the Jesuits to thank him for a letter the Pontiff received upon his election.”
A recent Catholic News Agency article reported on the surprise telephone call made by Pope Francis to the Jesuit Motherhouse in home.
To access the complete article, please visit:
Catholic News Agency: Jesuit doorman surprised by Pope’s phone call (15 MAR 13)
“We are not some casual and meaningless product of evolution. Each of us is the result of a thought of God.” – Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
Bangor, Maine, was recently selected by Forbes Magazine as one of the 25 best places to retire in the United States. Bangor was the only location chosen in the Northeast. In making its evaluations, the magazine looked at a number of factors, including living costs, taxes, crime, availability of doctors, and the opportunity to stay active with outdoor exercise and volunteer work.
To access the Bangor listing, please visit:
Forbes: The Best Places To Retire In 2013: Bangor, Maine
Media report:
Bangor Daily News: Forbes ranks Bangor as one of best places to retire (16 MAR 13)
To access the complete Forbes list, please visit:
Forbes: The Best Places To Retire In 2013
Background information:
Thank you, Lord, for seemingly small acts of kindness that have a great effect on our lives, whether we are aware of it or not.
I’ve read the story (contained in this 2 1/2 minute movie) before, but it is always good to be reminded of it and the truth it contains:
“If the people of Nazareth taught us anything, it’s that God could be right in front of you and you might not even recognize Him.” – Mark Hart
Thank you, Lord, for inspirations that guide us to resources that help resolve issues we are facing.
In a recent post, Tony Rossi, of The Christophers, offered a reflection on a car accident that ultimately led to a person’s life being saved.
To access Tony’s complete post, please visit:
Christopher Closeup: The Car Accident That Saved a Life (5 MAR 13)
“Somebody should tell us, right at the start of our lives, that we are dying. Then we might live life to the limit, every minute of every day. Do it! I say. Whatever you want to do, do it now! There are only so many tomorrows.” - Pope Paul VI
Eight times a year, each Federal Reserve Bank gathers information on current economic conditions in its District through reports from Bank and Branch directors and interviews with key business contacts, economists, market experts, and other sources. The subsequent report is commonly known as the Beige Book.
In its current commentary, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston (First Federal Reserve District) advises that economic activity continues to expand in the New England area, albeit slowly. Most contacted retailers, but only one-half of responding manufacturers, report higher sales in the latest period than a year earlier; nonetheless, most manufacturers are upbeat about 2013. Contacted staffing services firms cite a pick-up in business, while several software and IT services firms say their results are below expectations, although they maintain a positive outlook. Commercial real estate fundamentals are largely unchanged, with office leasing activity mixed. Most residential real estate markets across the region continue to show robust sales growth and modest price increases. Across sectors, vendor prices and selling prices are reported to be generally stable and headcount changes fairly modest, either up or down.
To access the complete First District summary, please visit:
Federal Reserve Bank: Beige Book - March 6, 2013: First District – Boston
Media report:
To access a copy of the complete national summary, please visit:
Summary of Commentary on Current Economic Conditions by Federal Reserve District (6 March 2013)
The idyllic setting of rural New England, far from the bustle of the cities and college towns, is a fitting location for contemplative religious. Near the small town of North Guilford, Connecticut, about a half-hour drive from the Dominican priory of St. Mary in New Haven, stands the Monastery of Our Lady of Grace. This place, rich with colonial tradition, is enriched by an even older tradition – that of the cloistered nuns of the Dominican Order. Here, thirty nuns, comprising one of the Order’s largest contemplative communities in the nation, live a life of intimate prayer and varied labor in the heart of the Order of Preachers, on their 125-acre property nestled among several small farms along Race Hill Road (according to local legend, the sisters tried to change the name to ‘Grace Hill Road’).”
In a recent commentary, Brother Humbert Kilanowski, O.P., reflected on some of the serious challenges that faced this community during its first decade.
To access Br. Humbert’s complete post, please visit:
Dominicana: Grace under Fire: A Portrait of Our Lady of Grace Monastery (7 MAR 13)
Background information:
Thank you, Lord, for the blessing You have bestowed on Your Church through the election of Pope Francis.
Yesterday, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, S.J., 76, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, was elected as Supreme Pontiff, the 265th successor of Peter, and has chosen the name Francis.
Media reports:
Catholic News Service: Argentina’s Cardinal Bergoglio elected pope, chooses Francis (13 MAR 13)
Catholic News Service: Crowd in St. Peter's Square joyously welcomes Pope Francis I (13 MAR 13)
Catholic Exchange: The First Words of Pope Francis (13 MAR 13)
Vatican Insider: Jorge Mario Bergoglio is the new Pope of the Catholic Church: Francis I (13 MAR 13)
The Gregorian Blog: Three Keys to Pope Francis (13 MAR 13)
Whispers in the Loggia: “Lowly, And Yet Chosen,” Enter Pope Francis (13 MAR 13)
“The greatest fault we commit in our prayers, in our occupations and in our setbacks is the lack of confidence in God. This is the reason why we fail to receive from the Divine Goodness the help we deserve and ask for.” – Saint Francis de Sales
Thank you< Lord, for the many, many ways, whether I am aware of them or not, You have enriched my life through the years.
“I think it will be some years before we understand how great a legacy Pope Benedict XVI will be leaving us.
“Part of that legacy to be especially treasured will be the Pope’s reflections on the dangers of the increasingly aggressive secular state.
“His warning: In the West, and now especially in the United States, the state is increasingly pushing a secular agenda. Pushing that agenda through means driving the Church, not just out of the public square, but out of the culture. The threat to religious liberty is very, very real.”
In a recent commentary in the National Catholic Register, Benjamin Wiker, Ph.D., reflected on the concerns raised by Pope Benedict related to secularization coming to the United States and on Pope Benedict’s call for an articulation of the Christian vision of man and society as an alternative to the increasing secularism.
To access Dr. Wiker’s complete post, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Pope Benedict XVI vs. Secularism (9 MAR 13)
“If you don’t think every day is a good day, just try missing one.” – Cavett Robert
Thank you, Lord, for well made apparel that clothes us and for those who design, manufacture, and distribute this apparel.
“When I was very young, perhaps 10 years old, I took some sailing lessons, and once again when I was in my early 30s. Sailing involves a kind of romancing the wind wherein one observes the wind as it is, and then adapts to it, wooing it, learning its moves, its vicissitudes, and its often subtle and changing sign. . . .
“Now sailing is an image of receptivity. One cannot control the wind, but must simply accept it, and take it as it is. Yes, sailing requires a sailor to adjust to what is, to learn acceptance and work with what is given, to live in the world as it is, rather than wish for world as it ought to be.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on how our spiritual lives may be compared to a sailboat and/or a motorboat – and the difference between the two.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: Is your Spiritual Life like a Sailboat or a Motorboat? (4 MAR 13)
“Let us seek the grace of a cheerful heart, an even temper, sweetness, gentleness, and brightness of mind, as walking in His light, and by His grace. Let us pray to Him to give us the spirit of ever-abundant, everspringing love, which overpowers and sweeps away the vexations of life by its own richness and strength, and which, above all things, unites us to Him who is the fountain and the centre of all mercy, loving-kindness, and joy.” – Blessed John Henry Newman
“If Jesus had wanted a church free of scandal or problems, he would have put it in the hands of angels, not a humanity he loved, said Nigeria’s newest cardinal elector.”
In an interview recently published by the Catholic News Service, Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan, of Abuja, Nigeria, reflected on the Church, its human leaders, and the importance of being authentic messengers of the Gospel, of the teaching of Jesus.
To access the complete interview, please visit:
“Practice the art of gratitude,
The habit of thanksgiving, and
The attitude of appreciation.” – William Arthur Ward
Today the Church celebrates the Fourth Sunday of Lent. The assigned readings are Joshua 5:9a, 10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; and Luke 15:1-3, 11-32. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 34 (Psalm 34:2-7).
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
So to them Jesus addressed this parable: “A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, ‘Father give me the share of your estate that should come to me.’ So the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any.
“Coming to his senses he thought, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.”’ So he got up and went back to his father.
“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. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.’ But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’
“Then the celebration began. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. The servant said to him, ‘Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. He said to his father in reply, ‘Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.’ He said to him, ‘My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’”
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Fourth Sunday of Lent (March 10, 2013)
Msgr. Charles Pope: There was a man who had two sons: A Homily for Laetare Sunday (9 MAR 13)
The Sacred Page: A Whole New World: The Readings for Laetare Sunday (6 MAR 13)
Marcellino D’Ambrosio, Ph.D.: The Atonement and the Prodigal Son
The Quiet Corner: Discovering the mercy of our father (7 MAR 13)
The Happy Priest: Lent and Our Return to the Father (10 MAR 13)
Word on Fire: Sermon 635 : The Prodigal Son : 4th Sunday of Lent
Dr. Scott Hahn: Found Alive Again (March 10th 2013 - 4th Sunday of Lent)
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways in which You provide for us, whether we are aware of it or not.
“In the process of retiring one pope and electing another, I’ve had a bunch of media interviews. Members of the secular media, as well as the general public, have been keenly interested in the drama and the circumstances of Benedict’s surprise resignation.
“And now the focus has quickly changed to the prospects for the next pope. The two questions I’ve been asked most frequently are: ‘Who will be the next pope?’ and ‘What will the next pope have to do?’
“The first question is easy to answer: I don’t know.
“The second question is a lot more complicated, but at least I can offer a personal opinion and some observations.”
In a recent commentary, Bishop Thomas J. Tobin, of the Diocese of Providence (RI), reflected on the attributes the next Pope will need.
To access Bishop Tobin’s essay, please visit:
Without A Doubt: What the New Pope Will Have to Do (8 MAR 13)
“Humor is in fact an essential element in the mirth of creation. We can see how, in many matters in our lives, God wants to prod us into taking things a bit more lightly.” – Pope Benedict XVI
Thank you, Lord, for the approaching season of spring and the many ways its approach lifts the hearts of Your people.
“Pope Benedict XVI’s papacy may have lasted eight years, but the retiring Holy Father and his reforms have left their mark on the American priesthood and sparked a new uptick in vocations.”
A recent article in the National Catholic Register explored the positive effect Pope Benedict has had upon the number of priestly vocations in the United States and throughout the rest of the world.
To access this National Catholic Register article, please visit:
“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.” – Proverbs 22:29
As we turn to Daylight Saving Time this weekend, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is reminding people throughout the U.S. of the importance of having working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in their homes.
When changing clocks ahead one hour for Daylight Saving Time this weekend, CPSC is recommending that people replace the batteries in alarms. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey for 2011, only three out of four homes reported they changed the batteries in their smoke alarms in the last six months. Batteries need to be replaced in alarms every year. In addition, CPSC recommends that consumers test their alarms every month to make sure they are working.
There are more than 366,000 home fires every year and more than 2,300 people die in them, according to CPSC’s latest Residential Fire Loss Estimates report.
Thank you, Lord, for those who minister, whether on a church, community organization, or individual level, to our senior citizens and for all You do for and through these persons and organizations.
In a recent commentary, Father Austin Fleming, pastor of Holy Family Parish, Concord, MA, offered what he has written, in his parish bulletin, on Pope Benedict XVI leaving the Chair of Peter.
To access his complete post, please visit:
“Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” – Buddha
Thank you, Lord, for meeting us where we are at each day, for inviting us to draw closer to You, and for the many graces You offer us to enable us to do so.
“One of the things I often marvel at is that a good number of young people are more socially conservative than their parents.
“I am in the last five years of the Baby Boom generation, perhaps the most selfish, immature, egotistical and rebellious generation that has ever lived in this country. The rebellion reached full flower in 1968, a terrible year not only of assassinations, but also of open sexual misconduct, the celebration of rebellion, of immature disrespect of authority and tradition, and a large percentage of people stoned out of their mind. . . .
“To some degree, the next generation will react to the reaction, rebel against the rebellion. And at least to some extent I have seen it. A lot of the younger people I have met and am preparing for marriage or see at theology on tap sessions, or meet over at the seminary and in novitiate for the Order in my parish, are re-embracing the tradition their parents and grandparents so carelessly cast aside. Further, these younger people see what a disaster the lives of their parents and grandparents have been with failed marriages, addictions, STDs, and many other ills.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on how some younger people who are “picking up the pieces of things their boomer parents shattered and reconsidering once discarded treasures.”
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
“Look deeply within yourself and remember that no person really lives until he or she has awakened to the dormant powers within.” – Rev. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
Thank you, Lord, for guiding the development of the various sacramentals and the many ways in which You encourage good thoughts and help us to increase devotion through them.
“It’s time I come clean. I'm an evangelical with a secret. A covert ‘real me’ peaks from the shadows and longs to leap into the sunlight. World events compel me to throw caution to the wind and blare my confession: I’m a wanna-be Catholic.”
In a recent commentary, evangelical writer Charles Redfern reflected on the Catholic Church and its traditions.
To access his complete essay, please visit:
Thank you, Deacon Greg Kandra, for the tip.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
This week, 3-9 March, has been National Consumer Protection Week, a period of time designed to encourages people to learn their rights as a consumer so they may spend their money wisely and protect themselves from scams and frauds.
For more information about this event and a number of related resources, please visit:
National Consumer Protection Week
Additional resource:
Federal Citizen Information Center: 2013 Consumer Action Handbook
Presidential Proclamation:
Presidential Proclamation - National Consumer Protection Week, 2013
“Catholics! The Vatican! Pope! Where, oh where can the secular media find some useful and accurate information about these strange and mysterious things?
“. . . there's been an alarming trend in the last few weeks. The secular, mainstream media is getting their information from . . . wait for it . . . actual Catholics. Like, people who know things, and aren't in flagrant dissent, and can talk about doctrine without drooling on their shirtfronts.”
In a recent commentary, writer Simcha Fisher reflected on current coverage of the Church by some of the secular media outlets.
To access her complete post, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Blogs: Strange Goings-On in the Secular Media (28 FEB 13)
“Even when everyone else only sees our faults, God still sees our possibilities.” – Source Unknown
Thank you, Lord, for cartoonists and for the recreation and reflection starters their work offers.
Recently, Dr. C. Everett Koop passed away ay his home in Hanover, NH. Dr. Koop served as Surgeon General of the United States under President Ronald Reagan.
“Dr. Koop, who was Surgeon General from 1981 through 1989, was the most visible and the most influential person ever to hold that office. During his tenure Dr. Koop raised our national awareness regarding the health dangers of cigarette smoking, and established an aggressive government policy toward AIDS. He fought to strengthen the rights of handicapped children, campaigning to protect newborns with defects, which led to Congress passing the Baby Doe Amendment. . . .
“In his medical practice, C. Everett Koop was a pediatric surgeon who achieved international recognition for successfully separating conjoined twins and for advancing the field of pediatric surgery with new lifesaving procedures.
“Of particular interest is the case of critically ill Veramarie Calandra, fifth child of Harry and Vera Calandra, who operated a small grocery store in Norristown, Pa. Veramarie was born in 1966, and suffered from a congenital kidney disease. Dr. Koop performed several surgeries on the infant’s severe urinary tract defects at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, finally removing her bladder and warning her parents that she could not live that way, and that the child was certain to die.”
In a recent commentary, writer Kathy Schiffer reflected on Dr. Koop’s accomplishment’s and on his patient, Veramarie, who may have been miraculously healed through the prayers of Padre Pio.
To access Ms. Schiffer’s complete post, please visit:
Seasons of Grace: C. Everett Koop: The Padre Pio Connection (26 FEB 13)
“A constant danger with Christians, even zealous Christians is that they become so immersed in the work of the Lord that they neglect the Lord of the work.” – Blessed Pope John Paul II
Today the Church celebrates the Third Sunday of Lent. The assigned readings are Exodus 3:1-8, 13-15; 1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12; and Luke 13:1-9. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 103 (Psalm 103:1-4, 6-8, 11).
The Gospel reading is as follows:Some people told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. Jesus said to them in reply, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did! Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them – do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!”
And he told them this parable: “There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, he said to the gardener, ‘For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. So cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?’ He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.’”
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Third Sunday of Lent (March 3, 2013)
The Sacred Page: The Revelation of the Divine Name: The 3rd Sunday of Lent (2 MAR 13)
Marcellino D’Ambrosio, Ph.D.: Lenten Fasting or Feasting?
The Happy Priest: Lent and the Sacrament of Confession (3 MAR 13)
Word on Fire: Sermon 634 : A Tale of Two Trees : 3rd Sunday of Lent
Dr. Scott Hahn: Fruits of the Fig (March 3rd 2013 - 3rd Sunday of Lent)
Spirituality of the Readings: An Angry Savior? (Third Sunday of Lent C)
Thank you, Lord, for Your constant reaching out to us at whatever point we are at in our lives.
“People aren’t hearing us. People aren’t seeing us.
“That’s why it’s nothing short of urgent that as Catholics we hear the message, not only of the Holy Father’s bold, historic and jolting move to renounce the papacy, but also, from a communications point of view, the message of his entire papacy.
“The message: Catholics, be who you claim to be — live lives of prayer and faith.”
In a recent National Catholic Register commentary, Kathryn Jean Lopez, editor at large of National Review Online and nationally syndicated columnist, reflected on the importance and urgency of each Catholic encountering Christ and reflecting God’s light and face with his/her life.
To access her complete essay, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Benedict’s Message: Go to Jesus (28 FEB 13)
“Trust the past to God’s mercy, the present to His love, and the future to His providence.” – Saint Augustine
The week of 3-9 March is being observed as National Severe Weather Preparedness Week. During this week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is collaborating with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide information to the public about the hazards of severe weather and steps people can take to ensure they’re prepared. The theme of the week is “Be a Force of Nature.”
Every year, thousands of people are impacted by severe weather threats such as tornadoes and severe thunderstorms. In 2012, there were more than 450 weather-related fatalities and nearly 2,600 injuries.
The goals of National Severe Weather Preparedness Week are to:
For additional information related to National Severe Weather Preparedness Week, please visit:
NWS: Weather-Ready Nation: Be a Force of Nature: National Severe Weather Preparedness Week
NWS: Severe Weather Awareness Week
FEMA: Ready.gov: Severe Weather
NOAA: Weather-Ready Nation: Building a Weather-Ready Nation, one kit at a time
The North Hampton, NH,Town Hall, which was built in 1844, has been named to the National Register of Historic Places.
Media report:
Hampton Union: Crowning achievement: Town Hall named to national registry (1 MAR 13)
Background information:
North Hampton Heritage Commission
Town of North Hampton, NH
Thank you, Lord, for the increasing singing of birds in the morning as our region moves toward spring.
“Benedict XVI’s final moments as pope yesterday were in keeping with his simple, understated character.
“There was no drama, no long speeches or self-indulgence — simply an acceptance of a reality and a prevailing sense of trust that Christ is at the heart of the Church, sentiments Benedict expressed to cardinals earlier in the day.”
A recent National Catholic Register article chronicled the last day of Pope Benedict’s papacy. The article also reported on the Vatican activities as it began the sede vacante period.
To access the complete National Catholic Register article, please visit:
National Catholic Register: On His Last Day as Pope, Benedict’s Character Shone Through (1 MAR 13)
“The best thing to give your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your child, a good example; to a father, deference; to a mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to yourself, respect; to all men, charity.” – Benjamin Franklin
The Holy Father’s prayer intentions for March are:
General intention: “That respect for nature may grow with the awareness that all creation is God’s work entrusted to human responsibility.”
Mission intention: “That bishops, priests, and deacons may be tireless messengers of the Gospel to the ends of the earth.”
Thank you, Lord, for all You have done for and through Pope Benedict XVI during his pontificate.
“It is a very brief word that begins the Lord’s prayer, ‘Our’, as in ‘Our Father.’ Note that it is in the first person plural. Such a little insight, yet such a powerful one.
“We live in times that emphasize the first person singular: I, me, mine my rights, my opinion, my choice, my lifestyle, my personal statement, my personal relationship with God, the God of my understanding, etc.
“We could probably do with a little more the first person plural. Our Lord, our Father, our family, our children, our Catholic faith, our heritage, our common lot.”
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the balancing of the dignity and the rights of the individual with the common good.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
“If you cannot make yourself what you would wish to be, how can you bend others to your will? We want them to be perfect, yet we do not correct our own faults.” - Father Thomas à Kempis ( in The Imitation of Christ)
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