30 November 2014
"Wait for the Lord"
As our Sunday celebration continues, I offer this version of the Taizé Community presenting "Wait for the Lord":
First Sunday of Advent
Today the Church celebrates the First Sunday of Advent. The assigned readings are Isaiah 63:16-17, 19 64:2-7; 1 Corinthians 1:3-9; and Matthew
25:31-46. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 80 (Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm for Advent (Psalm 80 Lord Make us Turn to You)
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus said to his disciples:“Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. It is like a man traveling abroad. He leaves home and places his servants in charge, each with his own work, and orders the gatekeeper to be on the watch. Watch, therefore; you do not know when the Lord of the house is coming, whether in the evening, or at midnight,or at cockcrow, or in the morning. May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!’”
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: In Times Like These You Need a Savior – A Homily for the First Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 30, 2014: 1st Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: The Advent Season Reminds Us: You Snooze, You Lose!
The Sacred Page: "Already and Still More": The First Sunday in Advent (26 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: We Need a Savior (Cycle B * Advent * Week 1)
Dr. Scott Hahn: Watch For Him (November 30th 2014 - First Sunday of Advent)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: Advent: Expectation, Exhortation, Eucharist, Eternal Life (29 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: Waiting for Patience (The First Sunday of Advent B)
The Word Embodied: Postponement and Repentance (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Historical Cultural Context: Don’t Forget Domani (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by Augustine (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: 1st Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm for Advent (Psalm 80 Lord Make us Turn to You)
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus said to his disciples:“Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. It is like a man traveling abroad. He leaves home and places his servants in charge, each with his own work, and orders the gatekeeper to be on the watch. Watch, therefore; you do not know when the Lord of the house is coming, whether in the evening, or at midnight,or at cockcrow, or in the morning. May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!’”
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: In Times Like These You Need a Savior – A Homily for the First Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 30, 2014: 1st Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: The Advent Season Reminds Us: You Snooze, You Lose!
The Sacred Page: "Already and Still More": The First Sunday in Advent (26 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: We Need a Savior (Cycle B * Advent * Week 1)
Dr. Scott Hahn: Watch For Him (November 30th 2014 - First Sunday of Advent)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: Advent: Expectation, Exhortation, Eucharist, Eternal Life (29 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: Waiting for Patience (The First Sunday of Advent B)
The Word Embodied: Postponement and Repentance (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Historical Cultural Context: Don’t Forget Domani (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by Augustine (The First Sunday of Advent B)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: 1st Sunday of Advent (29 NOV 14)
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the great gift You give us in inviting us to participate in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
Msgr. Pope on Our Transport to Heaven in Every Mass
"Before November ends and our consideration of the four last things (death, judgement, Heaven, and Hell) gives way to Advent preparations for the the great Second Coming that ushers in those things definitively, let us turn our attention to a short, often-overlooked summons to Heaven that takes place in every Mass. It takes place in a short dialogue just after the prayer over the gifts and before the singing of the Sanctus. It is called the 'preface dialogue' and it is really quite remarkable in its sweeping vision and heavenly call. . . .
"Very few attending Mass today think much of the heavenly liturgy. Rather, most are focused on their parish Church, the priest in front of them, and the people around them. But this is NOT an adequate vision for the Mass. In the end, there is only one liturgy: the one in Heaven. There is only one altar: the one in Heaven. There is only one High Priest: Jesus in Heaven. In the Mass, we are swept up into the heavenly liturgy. There, with myriad angels and saints beyond number, we worship the Father through Jesus, with Jesus, and in Jesus. In the Mass, we are swept up into Heaven!"
"Very few attending Mass today think much of the heavenly liturgy. Rather, most are focused on their parish Church, the priest in front of them, and the people around them. But this is NOT an adequate vision for the Mass. In the end, there is only one liturgy: the one in Heaven. There is only one altar: the one in Heaven. There is only one High Priest: Jesus in Heaven. In the Mass, we are swept up into the heavenly liturgy. There, with myriad angels and saints beyond number, we worship the Father through Jesus, with Jesus, and in Jesus. In the Mass, we are swept up into Heaven!"
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on our connection with Heaven as we celebrate Mass.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: Hearts Aloft! A Reflection on our Mystical Transport to Heaven in Every Mass (27 NOV 14)
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: Hearts Aloft! A Reflection on our Mystical Transport to Heaven in Every Mass (27 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Pope Francis
"There is so much noise in the world! May we learn to be silent in our hearts and before God." - Pope Francis
29 November 2014
Brooklyn Rider: Debussy's String Quartet
As this blessed week draws to a close, I offer this version of Brooklyn Rider presenting Claude Debussy's String Quartet:
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings You have planned for us as we prepare to celebrate the holy season of Advent.
Sr. Constance Veit, L.S.P., on Cultivating a 'Spirituality of Encounter' During Advent
"In September Pope Francis celebrated 'the blessing of long life' with thousands of senior citizens and their families. In his homily that day he spoke about the Visitation of the Virgin Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, calling it 'a Gospel of encounter.' The pope encouraged those present -- and through them, all of us -- to follow Mary's example and re-establish a covenant between the young and the old. The future of society supposes the meeting between generations, he said, as the young 'give the strength which enables a people to move forward, while the elderly consolidate this strength by their memory and their traditional wisdom.'
"'Encounter' is a particularly rich concept, especially during this Advent/Christmas season. Isn't 'encounter' really what the Incarnation is all about? God encountered his creatures in the most direct way possible by becoming one of them in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ -- God-with-us.
"Instead of rushing through December in a frenetic preparation for all that Christmas has come to entail in our materialistic society, what if we used this season of Advent to follow Our Lord's example and concentrate our efforts on nurturing a spirituality of encounter in our daily lives?"
In a recent commentary, Sister Constance Veit, L.S.P., reflected on how, during Advent, we may to encounter God each day in his Word and by departing from ourselves and reaching out to others in their need.
To access Sr. Constance's complete essay, please visit:
The Boston Pilot: Echoes: Cultivating a 'spirituality of encounter' this Advent. (11/25/2014)
"'Encounter' is a particularly rich concept, especially during this Advent/Christmas season. Isn't 'encounter' really what the Incarnation is all about? God encountered his creatures in the most direct way possible by becoming one of them in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ -- God-with-us.
"Instead of rushing through December in a frenetic preparation for all that Christmas has come to entail in our materialistic society, what if we used this season of Advent to follow Our Lord's example and concentrate our efforts on nurturing a spirituality of encounter in our daily lives?"
In a recent commentary, Sister Constance Veit, L.S.P., reflected on how, during Advent, we may to encounter God each day in his Word and by departing from ourselves and reaching out to others in their need.
To access Sr. Constance's complete essay, please visit:
The Boston Pilot: Echoes: Cultivating a 'spirituality of encounter' this Advent. (11/25/2014)
Reflection Starter from St. John Chrysostom
"Helping a person in need is good in itself. But the degree of goodness is hugely affected by the attitude with which it is done. If you show resentment because you are helping the person out of a reluctant sense of duty, then the person may receive your help but may feel awkward and embarrassed. This is because he will feel beholden to you. If,on the other hand, you help the person in a spirit of joy, then the help will be received joyfully. The person will feel neither demeaned nor humiliated by your help, but rather will feel glad to have caused you pleasure by receiving your help. And joy is the appropriate attitude with which to help others because acts of generosity are a source of blessing to the giver as well as the receiver." - Saint John Chrysostom
28 November 2014
Fr. William Byron, SJ, on Our Sense of Gratitude
"As the Thanksgiving season spills over into Advent and Christmas, many people find themselves remarking that this is their favorite time of the year.
"Thanksgiving Day is, of course, a secular feast day. Christmas is not. And most of those who speak of 'the holidays' as a not-so-artful dodge around the need to use the word 'Christmas' -- which is indeed a holy day -- seem to be oblivious to the fact that 'holiday' derives its very meaning from the word 'holy.'
"Thanksgiving, in full secular splendor, is more than welcome in my religious lexicon. If I were pressed to reduce the entire meaning of religion to one word, that word would be gratitude. The case for making that one word love instead of gratitude is worth attempting, but I recall learning that it was God who first loved us, thus enabling us to love and therefore all we can be is grateful. Why? Because God first loved us, he graced us."
In a recent commentary, Father William J. Byron, SJ, reflected on our practice of gratitude in our religious practices and in every other aspect of our lives.
To access Fr. Byron's complete post, please visit:
The Boston Pilot: Echoes: Gratitude as the essence of religion (28 NOV 14)
"Thanksgiving Day is, of course, a secular feast day. Christmas is not. And most of those who speak of 'the holidays' as a not-so-artful dodge around the need to use the word 'Christmas' -- which is indeed a holy day -- seem to be oblivious to the fact that 'holiday' derives its very meaning from the word 'holy.'
"Thanksgiving, in full secular splendor, is more than welcome in my religious lexicon. If I were pressed to reduce the entire meaning of religion to one word, that word would be gratitude. The case for making that one word love instead of gratitude is worth attempting, but I recall learning that it was God who first loved us, thus enabling us to love and therefore all we can be is grateful. Why? Because God first loved us, he graced us."
In a recent commentary, Father William J. Byron, SJ, reflected on our practice of gratitude in our religious practices and in every other aspect of our lives.
To access Fr. Byron's complete post, please visit:
The Boston Pilot: Echoes: Gratitude as the essence of religion (28 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from C. S. Lewis
" God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing." - C. S. Lewis
27 November 2014
Don Moen: "Thank You Lord"
As our Thanksgiving celebration continues, I offer this version of Don Moen singing "Thank You Lord":
151st Anniversary of Thanksgiving as National Holiday
This year is the 150th anniversary of the celebration of Thanksgiving as a national holiday. Although days of Thanksgiving had been previously held, the 1863 proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln set a precedent for future observances.
To Access a copy of President Lincoln's proclamation, please visit:
Presidential proclamation:
Media report:
Thanksgiving Day
As we in the United States celebrate Thanksgiving Day, the Church offers these readings: Sirach 50:22-24 (“And now, bless the God of all, who has done wondrous things on earth”), 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, and Luke 17:11-19. The Responsorial Psalm offered is Psalm 145 (Psalm 145:2-11).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
The Gospel reading is as follows:
As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem, he traveled through Samaria and Galilee. As he was entering a village, ten persons with leprosy met him. They stood at a distance from him and raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!” And when he saw them, he said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.”
As they were going they were cleansed. And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan. Jesus said in reply, “Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?” Then he said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.”
Reflections on this day and on these readings:
Lisa Hendey on Giving Thanks Amidst Pain
"As the world around us swirls in a frenzy of turkeys to be brined and pies to be baked…
"As we struggle to finish work so that we can walk away for a few days to feast with loved ones…
"As we anticipate how snow will potentially wreak havoc on travel plans…
"As we pause, telling ourselves we have so very much for which we are grateful to God…
"…we grasp for grace that can be found only in God, through God and with God."
In a recent commentary, writer/editor Lisa M. Hendey reflected on giving thanks amidst the pain and suffering in our communities, in our nation, in our world.
To access Ms. Hendey's complete post, please visit:
A Good Measure: Giving Thanks Amidst the Pain (25 NOV 14)
"As we struggle to finish work so that we can walk away for a few days to feast with loved ones…
"As we anticipate how snow will potentially wreak havoc on travel plans…
"As we pause, telling ourselves we have so very much for which we are grateful to God…
"…we grasp for grace that can be found only in God, through God and with God."
In a recent commentary, writer/editor Lisa M. Hendey reflected on giving thanks amidst the pain and suffering in our communities, in our nation, in our world.
To access Ms. Hendey's complete post, please visit:
A Good Measure: Giving Thanks Amidst the Pain (25 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Henry Ward Beecher
"The unthankful heart . . . discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!" - Henry Ward Beecher
26 November 2014
Franz Joseph Haydn: Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp minor
It’s time for some classical music. This is a presentation of Franz Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp minor ("Farewell"):
Br. John Sica, O.P., on Prayer Tips from St. Thomas Aquinas
"Prayer, St. John Damascene says, is the unveiling of the mind before God. When we pray we ask Him for what we need, confess our faults, thank Him for His gifts, and adore His immense majesty."
In a recent commentary, Brother John Sica, O.P., reflected on some guidance from Saint Thomas Aquinas on prayer (including reminders of the importance of being humble and having faith).
To access Br. John’s complete post, please visit:
Dominicana: 5 Tips on Prayer with St. Thomas Aquinas (25 NOV 14)
In a recent commentary, Brother John Sica, O.P., reflected on some guidance from Saint Thomas Aquinas on prayer (including reminders of the importance of being humble and having faith).
To access Br. John’s complete post, please visit:
Dominicana: 5 Tips on Prayer with St. Thomas Aquinas (25 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from John Henry Newman
“Nothing would be done at all if one waited until one could do it so well that no one could find fault with it.” - John Henry Newman
25 November 2014
Small Business Saturday
A
number of communities throughout this region and the rest of the nation are
urging residents to save some energy (and money) by turning out to support
locally-based, small businesses on Saturday, 30 November – Small Business
Saturday (the business day between Black Friday and Cyber Monday).
This
promotion has been initiated for a number of reasons:
§
It
supports the type of independent, unique businesses that make local communities
vibrant and distinct places.
§
It
keeps spending and tax revenue local, verses having them “leaking” out to
neighboring jurisdictions.
§
Profits
go to local owners instead of national headquarters located somewhere else.
§
It
helps demonstrate that local government is supportive and invested in local
business success.
Small
Business Saturday, which was established by American Express in 2010, is an
effort to help small businesses get more exposure during one of the biggest
shopping weekends of the year. According to American Express, over 100 million
people came out last year to shop at independently-owned small businesses
during Small Business Saturday.
For
more information about this observance, please visit:
Media reports:
Appreciate and Embrace Life This Thanksgiving
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, I can’t help but think of a TV show I watched over the summer: season two of the documentary TV series NY Med (season one won a 2013 Christopher Award). In case you’re not familiar with it, producers took cameras into New York Presbyterian Hospital and Newark’s University Hospital. There, they acted as invisible observers, providing a window into the perils, tensions, and comic moments that constitute everyday life for doctors, nurses, and patients.
So what does that have to do with Thanksgiving? Well, the holiday’s purpose is expressing gratitude for our blessings. But with the busyness of modern life, we sometimes need reminders of how precious our loved ones really are. And boy, does NY Med bring that truth home!
Consider the case of Chris Molnar, a 19-year-old who went through basic training as a Marine only to come home on leave and suffer a stroke. Doctors discovered that Molnar suffers from a severe cardiac disease that enlarged his heart to five times its normal size. As a stopgap measure, they surgically implanted a pump that would help his heart function, but recovery was so uncertain that doctors and the hospital chaplain told his parents and sisters to prepare themselves for his passing.
Though Molnar survived that incident, he was told he needed a heart transplant in order to live. NY Med’s crew followed his family’s journey, and the conflicting emotions of this sad predicament. For instance, Molnar’s mom admitted, “The bottom line is that somebody else has to die so that he can live, and it feels a little selfish.”
Still, the call comes that a heart has become available, and we get to see both the surgery itself and the family’s excruciating wait for news. Watching the Molnars pull together during this time offers a reminder that love becomes more deep and intense when you’re threatened with its loss. Thankfully, this story has a happy ending. Chris pulled through and is doing well with his new heart.
Another example is the story of Rita Respass-Brown, whose kidneys were functioning at only six percent. She would need a transplant in order to stay alive. When her 24-year-old son Tony heard the news, he got tested to see if his kidney would be a match for his mom. It was a perfect match, so he told her that he would be her donor. Rita felt reluctant because she didn’t want Tony to make such a big sacrifice for her. But he asked her, “Mom, what does it mean to you for someone to give you a kidney?” Rita responded, “Life!”
Tony answered, “That’s why I’m going to give you my kidney. You gave me life - and you don’t have the right to deny me the ability to do for you what you did for me.” The transplant went well, giving both mother and son a new appreciation for each other.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving with your family this year, remember to look at the people you love through the eyes of gratitude. Our culture may tell you that happiness is grounded in great Black Friday sales. But as NY Med reminds us, happiness is found in much simpler, less financially costly things: showing love to family, friends, and strangers; seeking fulfillment in helping others; being grateful for all your blessings; and using the pain in your life to make you a better, more compassionate person. If you pursue those avenues in your life, with the grace of God, you’ll always have something to be truly thankful for.
(This essay is this week's “Light One Candle” column, written by Tony Rossi, of The Christophers; it is one of a series of weekly columns that deal with a variety of topics and current events.)
Background information:
The Christophers
So what does that have to do with Thanksgiving? Well, the holiday’s purpose is expressing gratitude for our blessings. But with the busyness of modern life, we sometimes need reminders of how precious our loved ones really are. And boy, does NY Med bring that truth home!
Consider the case of Chris Molnar, a 19-year-old who went through basic training as a Marine only to come home on leave and suffer a stroke. Doctors discovered that Molnar suffers from a severe cardiac disease that enlarged his heart to five times its normal size. As a stopgap measure, they surgically implanted a pump that would help his heart function, but recovery was so uncertain that doctors and the hospital chaplain told his parents and sisters to prepare themselves for his passing.
Though Molnar survived that incident, he was told he needed a heart transplant in order to live. NY Med’s crew followed his family’s journey, and the conflicting emotions of this sad predicament. For instance, Molnar’s mom admitted, “The bottom line is that somebody else has to die so that he can live, and it feels a little selfish.”
Still, the call comes that a heart has become available, and we get to see both the surgery itself and the family’s excruciating wait for news. Watching the Molnars pull together during this time offers a reminder that love becomes more deep and intense when you’re threatened with its loss. Thankfully, this story has a happy ending. Chris pulled through and is doing well with his new heart.
Another example is the story of Rita Respass-Brown, whose kidneys were functioning at only six percent. She would need a transplant in order to stay alive. When her 24-year-old son Tony heard the news, he got tested to see if his kidney would be a match for his mom. It was a perfect match, so he told her that he would be her donor. Rita felt reluctant because she didn’t want Tony to make such a big sacrifice for her. But he asked her, “Mom, what does it mean to you for someone to give you a kidney?” Rita responded, “Life!”
Tony answered, “That’s why I’m going to give you my kidney. You gave me life - and you don’t have the right to deny me the ability to do for you what you did for me.” The transplant went well, giving both mother and son a new appreciation for each other.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving with your family this year, remember to look at the people you love through the eyes of gratitude. Our culture may tell you that happiness is grounded in great Black Friday sales. But as NY Med reminds us, happiness is found in much simpler, less financially costly things: showing love to family, friends, and strangers; seeking fulfillment in helping others; being grateful for all your blessings; and using the pain in your life to make you a better, more compassionate person. If you pursue those avenues in your life, with the grace of God, you’ll always have something to be truly thankful for.
(This essay is this week's “Light One Candle” column, written by Tony Rossi, of The Christophers; it is one of a series of weekly columns that deal with a variety of topics and current events.)
Background information:
The Christophers
Reflection Starter from St. Francis de Sales
"Nothing is so pleasing to the heart of God than to see us persevering in the exercise of small virtues. It is just these very virtues that can make us perfect if we persevere in them to the end, rather than the big virtues that we can exercise only from time to time." - Saint Francis de Sales
24 November 2014
Msgr. Pope on America and Catholic Place Names
"The video below boasts, 'America loves Italy' and features a Fiat car driving through American towns with Italian names.
"If that is the case then America loves Catholicism even more, since thousands of towns and places are named for Catholic saints, themes, and objects. Consider the following:
"In California: San Diego, San Miguel, San Francisco, San Bernadino, San Clemente, San Luis Obispo, San Jose, San Rafael, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Los Angeles (aka Nuestra Senora de los Angeles de la Porciuncula), Santa Cruz, Santa Clarita, Sacramento, San Joaquin Valley, San Gabriel Mountains
"In Texas: Corpus Christi, San Antonio
"In Florida: St. Augustine, St. Petersburg, Port St. Lucie, Santa Rosa Island, St. George Island, Port St. Joe."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the mark Catholicism has left on the United States.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: America Loves Catholicism: As Seen in Place Names Everywhere (21 NOV 14)
"If that is the case then America loves Catholicism even more, since thousands of towns and places are named for Catholic saints, themes, and objects. Consider the following:
"In California: San Diego, San Miguel, San Francisco, San Bernadino, San Clemente, San Luis Obispo, San Jose, San Rafael, Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Los Angeles (aka Nuestra Senora de los Angeles de la Porciuncula), Santa Cruz, Santa Clarita, Sacramento, San Joaquin Valley, San Gabriel Mountains
"In Texas: Corpus Christi, San Antonio
"In Florida: St. Augustine, St. Petersburg, Port St. Lucie, Santa Rosa Island, St. George Island, Port St. Joe."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the mark Catholicism has left on the United States.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: America Loves Catholicism: As Seen in Place Names Everywhere (21 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Thomas Paine
"I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death." - Thomas Paine
23 November 2014
"Crown Him with Many Crowns"
As our Sunday celebration continues, I offer this version of the Maranatha Singers presenting a "Crown Him with Many Crowns" medley:
The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. The assigned readings are
Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17; 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28; and Matthew
25:31-46. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 23 (Psalm 23:1-6).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm (PSALM 128 Blessed are those who Fear the LORD) 33rd Sunday
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus said to his disciples:"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’
"And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.’
"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.
"'Then they will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison,and not minister to your needs? 'He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you,what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me. And these will go off to eternal punishment,but the righteous to eternal life."
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Christ the King (November 23, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: Christ the King (November 23, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: The Strangest of Kings! A Homily for the Feast of Christ the King (22 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 23, 2014: Solemnity of Christ the King (22 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: Feast of Christ the King: Last Judgment & Sins of Omission
The Sacred Page: Solemnity of Christ the King: The Readings (18 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: He Reigns! The Solemnity of Christ the King (Solemnities * Christ the King)
Dr. Scott Hahn: When the End Comes (November 23, 2014 – Feast of Christ the King)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: Jesus Christ, the divine and heavenly Logos, the only King of all creation (22 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: Make Your Choice (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
The Word Embodied: The Gospel Realm (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Historical Cultural Context: Honor and Hospitality (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by Hippolytus (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Feast of Christ the King (21 NOV 14)
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm (PSALM 128 Blessed are those who Fear the LORD) 33rd Sunday
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus said to his disciples:"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.'
"Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’
"And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.’
"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.
"'Then they will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison,and not minister to your needs? 'He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you,what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me. And these will go off to eternal punishment,but the righteous to eternal life."
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Christ the King (November 23, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: Christ the King (November 23, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: The Strangest of Kings! A Homily for the Feast of Christ the King (22 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 23, 2014: Solemnity of Christ the King (22 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: Feast of Christ the King: Last Judgment & Sins of Omission
The Sacred Page: Solemnity of Christ the King: The Readings (18 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: He Reigns! The Solemnity of Christ the King (Solemnities * Christ the King)
Dr. Scott Hahn: When the End Comes (November 23, 2014 – Feast of Christ the King)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: Jesus Christ, the divine and heavenly Logos, the only King of all creation (22 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: Make Your Choice (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
The Word Embodied: The Gospel Realm (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Historical Cultural Context: Honor and Hospitality (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by Hippolytus (The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Feast of Christ the King (21 NOV 14)
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways You encourage our participation in our communities.
Emily Stimpson on Fighting Apathy in Our World
"In 1831, after touring the fledgling United States, the Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville observed that 'Americans of all ages, all stations in life, and all types of dispositions are forever forming associations.'
"'The people reign over the American political world as God rules over the universe,' he concluded, contending that the passionate involvement of the country's citizens was key to its success.
"Unfortunately, that means if Tocqueville was right, America has a problem.
"More than 175 years after Tocqueville penned “Democracy in America,” American apathy is rising and civic involvement falling."
In a recent commentary, writer Emily Stimpson reflected on the decline in civic involvement and electoral participation among the people of the United States and its relation ship to the sin of sloth. She also reflected on evangelization and connecting awareness to action as methods to reverse this trend.
To access Ms. Stimpson's complete essay., please visit:
OSV Newsweekly: Our brother’s keeper: Fighting apathy in our world (19 NOV 14)
"'The people reign over the American political world as God rules over the universe,' he concluded, contending that the passionate involvement of the country's citizens was key to its success.
"Unfortunately, that means if Tocqueville was right, America has a problem.
"More than 175 years after Tocqueville penned “Democracy in America,” American apathy is rising and civic involvement falling."
In a recent commentary, writer Emily Stimpson reflected on the decline in civic involvement and electoral participation among the people of the United States and its relation ship to the sin of sloth. She also reflected on evangelization and connecting awareness to action as methods to reverse this trend.
To access Ms. Stimpson's complete essay., please visit:
OSV Newsweekly: Our brother’s keeper: Fighting apathy in our world (19 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Pope Francis
"There is so much noise in the world! May we learn to be silent in our hearts and before God." - Pope Francis
22 November 2014
Fr. Eugene Hemrick on the Best Christmas Deal
"Stores began selling Christmas items long before Thanksgiving, and even Black Friday has been pushed up to attract bargain seekers. Each year, the messages and peddling of items seem to come earlier and earlier.
"Sometimes it feels as if it's all too much: too much shopping, too much noise, too much running around during a season that's supposed to bring us peace.
"Is there a way to avoid or to attack that hectic, stampeding effect that the business sector pushes on us during the Christmas season? Sure there is. But how? There is one way an author found effective."
In a recent commentary, Father Eugene Hemrick reflected on the importance of spending time with the Lord during the upcoming busy season (and beyond).
To access Fr. Hemlick's complete post, please visit:
Boston Pilot: Father Eugene Hemrick: The best Christmas deal is free (21 NOV 14)
"Sometimes it feels as if it's all too much: too much shopping, too much noise, too much running around during a season that's supposed to bring us peace.
"Is there a way to avoid or to attack that hectic, stampeding effect that the business sector pushes on us during the Christmas season? Sure there is. But how? There is one way an author found effective."
In a recent commentary, Father Eugene Hemrick reflected on the importance of spending time with the Lord during the upcoming busy season (and beyond).
To access Fr. Hemlick's complete post, please visit:
Boston Pilot: Father Eugene Hemrick: The best Christmas deal is free (21 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God's handwriting." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
20 November 2014
George Weigel on Vatican II and the Berlin Wall
"Hstory sometimes displays the happy capacity to arrange anniversaries so that one sheds light on another. On Nov. 21, 1964, Pope Paul VI solemnly promulgated the Second Vatican Council’s Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, which began by proclaiming Christ the 'light of the nations' and is thus known as Lumen Gentium. Twenty-five years later, on the night of Nov. 9-10, 1989, the Berlin Wall was breached and the communist project in Europe collapsed, reduced to rubble like the masonry that divided Germany for decades. Fifty years after Lumen Gentium and twenty-five years after the Revolution of 1989, we can see more clearly that the Council had something to do with the communist crack-up.
"Not in the way senior Vatican diplomats imagined, however. In the post-Council euphoria, it was thought that Vatican II's 'openness' would help facilitate a 'convergence' between East and West, such that the Wall, and the post-war division of Europe, would eventually melt away. What actually happened was far more dramatic, and illustrates the way in which salvation history, working inside what the world sees as 'history,' can bend history in a more humane direction.
In a recent essay, George Weigel (columnist and Distinguished Senior Fellow, Ethics and Public Policy Center, Washington, DC) reflected on Vatican II, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and how salvation history ("God's liberating providence") is at work in human history, sometimes in hidden ways and sometimes more clearly
To access the complete report, please visit:
First Things: Vatican II and the Berlin Wall (19 NOV 14)
"Not in the way senior Vatican diplomats imagined, however. In the post-Council euphoria, it was thought that Vatican II's 'openness' would help facilitate a 'convergence' between East and West, such that the Wall, and the post-war division of Europe, would eventually melt away. What actually happened was far more dramatic, and illustrates the way in which salvation history, working inside what the world sees as 'history,' can bend history in a more humane direction.
In a recent essay, George Weigel (columnist and Distinguished Senior Fellow, Ethics and Public Policy Center, Washington, DC) reflected on Vatican II, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and how salvation history ("God's liberating providence") is at work in human history, sometimes in hidden ways and sometimes more clearly
To access the complete report, please visit:
First Things: Vatican II and the Berlin Wall (19 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from William Arthur Ward
"Our lives, like football games, need goals, boundaries and occasional time-outs." - William Arthur Ward
19 November 2014
Richard Strauss: Symphonia Domestica
It’s time for some classical music. This is a presentation of Richard Strauss’ “Symphonia Domestica (Domestic Symphony) (Op. 53) as played by the Corvallis-OSU Symphony (conducted by Dr. Marlan Carlson):
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways You guide us in learning about Your creation through the work of scientists.
Vatican Astronomer Awarded Carl Sagan Medal
"[Recently], Michigan-raised Jesuit Brother Guy Consolmagno [became] the first clergyman awarded the prestigious Carl Sagan Medal 'for outstanding communication by an active planetary scientist to the general public.'
"Consolmagno co-authored the new book 'Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?,' which came out last month. His short answer to his book's title question is, 'if she asked.'"
A recent National Public Radio "Here & Now" report included an interview with Brother Guy Consolmagno, S.J., in which he talks about the history of the Vatican observatory and on the support of science by the Church.
To access the complete NPR report, please visit:
WBUR: Here & Now: Vatican Astronomer Wins Top Science Prize (11 NOV 14)
Background information:
Vatican Observatory
Division for Planetary Sciences of the American Astronomical Society: Carl Sagan Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in Planetary Science
"Consolmagno co-authored the new book 'Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?,' which came out last month. His short answer to his book's title question is, 'if she asked.'"
A recent National Public Radio "Here & Now" report included an interview with Brother Guy Consolmagno, S.J., in which he talks about the history of the Vatican observatory and on the support of science by the Church.
To access the complete NPR report, please visit:
WBUR: Here & Now: Vatican Astronomer Wins Top Science Prize (11 NOV 14)
Background information:
Vatican Observatory
Division for Planetary Sciences of the American Astronomical Society: Carl Sagan Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in Planetary Science
Reflection Starter from Fr. Brian Cavanaugh, TOR
"In a roomful of people
They are all smiles a’beaming,
But is it when you enter in,
Or when you are leaving?" – Father Brian Cavanaugh, TOR
They are all smiles a’beaming,
But is it when you enter in,
Or when you are leaving?" – Father Brian Cavanaugh, TOR
18 November 2014
Msgr. Pope and a Word of Encouragement from God
"Every now and again in times like these, I think of the prophet Elijah, anxious and fretting in a cave, so depressed he could barely eat. He was fleeing from Queen Jezebel, who sought his life. As Elijah looked to his beloved Israel, he saw a rather discouraging portrait of fellow Jews who were either too confused or too fearful to resist the religion of the Baals required by Jezebel. He seems to have felt quite alone. Perhaps he was the last of those who held the true religion, or so he thought and felt."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on Elijah's lament and the encouraging response given to him by God.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: “I have seven thousand in Israel, who have never bent the knee to nor bowed to Baal” – A Word of Encouragement from God (13 NOV 14)
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on Elijah's lament and the encouraging response given to him by God.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: “I have seven thousand in Israel, who have never bent the knee to nor bowed to Baal” – A Word of Encouragement from God (13 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Frederick Douglass
"I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own abhorrence." - Frederick Douglass
17 November 2014
Mark Shea on the Catholicity of the Catholic Church
"And yet... here is this strange divine sea of a Church, embraced by
apparently rational, intelligent and good people (more and more of them
well-educated converts from both Protestantism and secularism) who
seriously subscribe to the dogma that the Holy Catholic Church is, in
very truth, infallible. Why?"
In a recent commentary, writer Mark Shea reflected on the variety of positions taken by people in the Church on matters that are not dogma.
To access Mark's complete post, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Mark Shea: Why We're Called the Catholic Church (13 NOV 14)
In a recent commentary, writer Mark Shea reflected on the variety of positions taken by people in the Church on matters that are not dogma.
To access Mark's complete post, please visit:
National Catholic Register: Mark Shea: Why We're Called the Catholic Church (13 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from William James
"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - William James
16 November 2014
"Holy, Holy, Holy"
As we continue our Sunday celebration, I offer this version of Hillsong United presenting "Holy, Holy, Holy":
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today the Church celebrates the Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time. The assigned readings are Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6; and Matthew 25:14-30. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 128 (Psalm 128:1-5).
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm (PSALM 128 Blessed are those who Fear the LORD) 33rd Sunday
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus told his disciples this parable: "A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one - to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master's money.
"After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, 'Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master's joy.' Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, 'Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities.
Come, share your master's joy.' Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said,
'Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.' His master said to him in reply, 'You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? Should you not then have put my money in the bank
so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.'"
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 16, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 16, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: Growing in the Fear of the Lord – A Homily for the 33rd Sunday of the Year (15 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 16, 2014: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (14 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: Parable of the Talents
The Sacred Page: "The economics of salvation": Readings for the Thirty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time (12 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: Parable of the Talents (Cycle A * Ordinary Time * Week 33)
Dr. Scott Hahn: Settling Accounts (November 16th 2014 - Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: We must fear God from love, not love God from fear (15 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: The Fear Factor (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
The Word Embodied: Stewardship (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Historical Cultural Context: The Peasant View (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by John Chrysostom (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Word to Life Radio Broadcast: 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time (16 NOV 14)
For one version of the Responsorial Psalm set to music, please visit:
YouTube: Responsorial Psalm (PSALM 128 Blessed are those who Fear the LORD) 33rd Sunday
The Gospel reading is as follows:
Jesus told his disciples this parable: "A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one - to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master's money.
"After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, 'Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master's joy.' Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, 'Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.' His master said to him, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities.
Come, share your master's joy.' Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said,
'Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.' His master said to him in reply, 'You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? Should you not then have put my money in the bank
so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.'"
Reflections on these readings:
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 16, 2014)
Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Salesian Sunday Reflection: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 16, 2014 )
Msgr. Charles Pope: Growing in the Fear of the Lord – A Homily for the 33rd Sunday of the Year (15 NOV 14)
The Deacon's Bench: Homily for November 16, 2014: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (14 NOV 14)
Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio: Parable of the Talents
The Sacred Page: "The economics of salvation": Readings for the Thirty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time (12 NOV 14)
Word on Fire: Parable of the Talents (Cycle A * Ordinary Time * Week 33)
Dr. Scott Hahn: Settling Accounts (November 16th 2014 - Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Ignatius Insight Scoop: We must fear God from love, not love God from fear (15 NOV 14)
Spirituality of the Readings: The Fear Factor (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
The Word Embodied: Stewardship (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Historical Cultural Context: The Peasant View (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Thoughts from the Early Church: Commentary by John Chrysostom (33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time A)
Word to Life Radio Broadcast: Word to Life Radio Broadcast: 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time (16 NOV 14)
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, lord, for the many ways in which You allow us glimpses of Your glory during our earthly pilgrimage.
Fr. Longenecker on Placing Christ First in Our lives
"What is it in me that likes the difficult sayings of Jesus more than the easy sayings?
"Everybody loves Jesus who says, 'Let the little children come to me' and 'Neither do I condemn you' But have you read the gospels lately? Jesus' teaching is much more forceful and strident than we like to remember. He's calling his enemies the 'Sons of Satan', 'whitewashed tombs full of dead and decaying bodies' and snakes. He's saying that the way to heaven is narrow and few get in. Most are on the wide easy downward slope. He talks about hell as the place where there is weeping and wailing and grinding of teeth. It is Gehenna - the great trash heap where 'their worm does not die.'"
In a recent commentary, Father Dwight Longenecker (parish priest at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Greenville, SC), reflected on the line "Life is a casting off." (from The Death of a Salesman) and its application to our call to place the love of Christ before anything else.
To access Fr. Longenecker's complete post, please visit:
Standing on My Head: Life is a Casting Off (14 NOV 14)
Background information:
Dwight Longenecker - Catholic priest and author
"Everybody loves Jesus who says, 'Let the little children come to me' and 'Neither do I condemn you' But have you read the gospels lately? Jesus' teaching is much more forceful and strident than we like to remember. He's calling his enemies the 'Sons of Satan', 'whitewashed tombs full of dead and decaying bodies' and snakes. He's saying that the way to heaven is narrow and few get in. Most are on the wide easy downward slope. He talks about hell as the place where there is weeping and wailing and grinding of teeth. It is Gehenna - the great trash heap where 'their worm does not die.'"
In a recent commentary, Father Dwight Longenecker (parish priest at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Greenville, SC), reflected on the line "Life is a casting off." (from The Death of a Salesman) and its application to our call to place the love of Christ before anything else.
To access Fr. Longenecker's complete post, please visit:
Standing on My Head: Life is a Casting Off (14 NOV 14)
Background information:
Dwight Longenecker - Catholic priest and author
Reflection Starter from Pope Francis
"A Christian brings peace to others. Not only peace, but also love, kindness, faithfulness and joy." - Pope Francis
14 November 2014
America Recycles Day
America Recycles Day, an observance designed to promote and
celebrate recycling through education and collection events, will be
observed on Thursday, 15 November.
For more information about America Recycles Day, please visit:
America Recycles Day
Facebook: America Recycles Day
National Recycling Coalition
Earth911
Keep America Beautiful offers these tips and activities related to this observance:
EPA: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
For more information about America Recycles Day, please visit:
America Recycles Day
Facebook: America Recycles Day
National Recycling Coalition
Earth911
Keep America Beautiful offers these tips and activities related to this observance:
- Get to know what’s recyclable in your community and what happens to your trash after the garbage truck takes it away. Recycling is different in different places, so knowing one’s local rules is an important first step.
- Don’t be a litterbug. Make sure that recyclable trash always goes in the proper place – a recycling receptacle.
- Reuse. Reuse things so that they stay out of the trash. Things like drink bottles and grocery bags may be refilled. Books and magazines may be reused as art projects or gift wrapping. Old toys or electronics may be donated to a charity that will give them to someone else.
- Know your numbers. Look for the recycling symbol (three arrows going in a circle) on plastic bottles, packages, or containers.
- Can it! Metals are among the most valuable materials for recycling. Aluminum and steel cans are always welcomed by recyclers, and most metals can be recycled infinitely with no loss of quality.
- Look beyond the daily paper. Paper and cardboard are America’s most-recycled materials.
- Make recycling easy on the road. Keep two bags in your car or truck to contain your family’s trash – one bag for garbage, and one for recyclables.
- Improve your neighborhood with a cleanup event, and be sure to sort the recyclables you pick up.
EPA: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Msgr. Pope on the Christian View of Death
"In the month of November, we remember the souls of the faithful departed and our obligation to pray for them. November and into the early part of Advent is also a part of the Church year during which we begin to ponder the last things: death, judgment, Heaven, and Hell. In the northern hemisphere, the days grow shorter. In regions farther north, the once green trees and fields shed their lively green, and after the brief, golden gown of autumn, a kind of death overtakes the landscape. Life changes; we grow older, and one day we will die.
"It is fitting at this time that we ponder the passing glory of things and set our gaze on Heaven, where joys will never end. . . ."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on longing to leave this world and to be with God in Heaven.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: And Death is Gain…A Reflection on the Christian View of Death (12 NOV 14)
"It is fitting at this time that we ponder the passing glory of things and set our gaze on Heaven, where joys will never end. . . ."
In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on longing to leave this world and to be with God in Heaven.
To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:
Msgr. Charles Pope: And Death is Gain…A Reflection on the Christian View of Death (12 NOV 14)
Reflection Starter from Mark Twain
"God has put something noble and good into every heart which His hand created." - attributed to Mark Twain
13 November 2014
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways in which You inspire and encourage Your people to go above and beyond the call of duty in whatever circumstances You place them and/or allow them to be in.
An Air Force Major’s Legacy
The nice thing about Veterans Day is that it has a very democratic base for those it honors. All you have to do is serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. They don’t ask when you did, what you did, or how you did it. You qualify, period.
Of course, there are those who rate a special recognition - the combat veterans, the “Greatest Generation” of World War II, the heroes of all wars. All who won mention for bravery, as well as those who didn’t get mentioned but were brave nonetheless. And there is that unique category, those who have been awarded the Medal of Honor. They’re veterans too, with a capital “V.” One of them died not long ago after a full and active life, and he deserves our thanks as we pause once again to salute those who served their country. He did so, and did it in an extraordinary way.
His name was Bernard Fisher, and he served in the Vietnam War. Col. Bernard F. Fisher, U.S. Air Force, 87. After a childhood in both California and Utah, he was commissioned in the Air Force while serving in the ROTC at the University of Utah. Paul Vitello’s obituary told his story in The New York Times:
Fisher, then a major, led a group of planes strafing North Vietnamese positions and helping Special Forces commandos who were under attack by enemy forces. It was March 10, 1966. One of the other planes was hit by a shell, and had to crash-land - where it skidded first, then burst into flames. Maj. Fisher saw what was happening from the air: the crash, the fiery wreckage, the pilot’s escape from the downed plane, and his disappearance into the underbrush.
First he decided to radio for a rescue helicopter, then quickly realized that there wouldn’t be enough time. Enemy soldiers were everywhere, and, as the major later recalled, “They weren’t taking any prisoners.” The other pilot turned out to be Maj. Dafford Myers, someone from another unit whom Maj. Fisher had met infrequently and hardly knew. Still, another pilot was in trouble and needed him. Maj. Fisher knew what his answer would be: he would land his own plane on the debris-scarred runway and rescue Myers himself.
“It’s important,” he later reflected, “that you respond to your feelings when the time comes for it. “It all happened just as he planned - the rescue, the hurried takeoff, the dash to safety - and that’s why he found himself, less than a year later, in the White House in Washington. D.C. And that’s where President Lyndon B. Johnson awarded him the Medal of Honor.
Fisher retired as a colonel in 1974, then settled down on a farm in Idaho, where he and his wife raised seed corn and alfalfa. But a postscript goes with his story, too: every year on March 10, Maj. Myers called him to wish him well. And after Myers’ death in 1992, his daughter continued the tradition, right up to the anniversary date this year.
End of story, but hardly the end of Veterans Day. It goes on year after year, honoring all the men and women who answered the call. The requirements for entrance, to repeat a point, are remarkably democratic. It’s just that some, like Col. Fisher, answered in a special way. And they deserve equally special thanks this day.
(This essay is this week's “Light One Candle” column, written by Jerry Costello, of The Christophers; it is one of a series of weekly columns that deal with a variety of topics and current events.)
Background information:
The Christophers
Of course, there are those who rate a special recognition - the combat veterans, the “Greatest Generation” of World War II, the heroes of all wars. All who won mention for bravery, as well as those who didn’t get mentioned but were brave nonetheless. And there is that unique category, those who have been awarded the Medal of Honor. They’re veterans too, with a capital “V.” One of them died not long ago after a full and active life, and he deserves our thanks as we pause once again to salute those who served their country. He did so, and did it in an extraordinary way.
His name was Bernard Fisher, and he served in the Vietnam War. Col. Bernard F. Fisher, U.S. Air Force, 87. After a childhood in both California and Utah, he was commissioned in the Air Force while serving in the ROTC at the University of Utah. Paul Vitello’s obituary told his story in The New York Times:
Fisher, then a major, led a group of planes strafing North Vietnamese positions and helping Special Forces commandos who were under attack by enemy forces. It was March 10, 1966. One of the other planes was hit by a shell, and had to crash-land - where it skidded first, then burst into flames. Maj. Fisher saw what was happening from the air: the crash, the fiery wreckage, the pilot’s escape from the downed plane, and his disappearance into the underbrush.
First he decided to radio for a rescue helicopter, then quickly realized that there wouldn’t be enough time. Enemy soldiers were everywhere, and, as the major later recalled, “They weren’t taking any prisoners.” The other pilot turned out to be Maj. Dafford Myers, someone from another unit whom Maj. Fisher had met infrequently and hardly knew. Still, another pilot was in trouble and needed him. Maj. Fisher knew what his answer would be: he would land his own plane on the debris-scarred runway and rescue Myers himself.
“It’s important,” he later reflected, “that you respond to your feelings when the time comes for it. “It all happened just as he planned - the rescue, the hurried takeoff, the dash to safety - and that’s why he found himself, less than a year later, in the White House in Washington. D.C. And that’s where President Lyndon B. Johnson awarded him the Medal of Honor.
Fisher retired as a colonel in 1974, then settled down on a farm in Idaho, where he and his wife raised seed corn and alfalfa. But a postscript goes with his story, too: every year on March 10, Maj. Myers called him to wish him well. And after Myers’ death in 1992, his daughter continued the tradition, right up to the anniversary date this year.
End of story, but hardly the end of Veterans Day. It goes on year after year, honoring all the men and women who answered the call. The requirements for entrance, to repeat a point, are remarkably democratic. It’s just that some, like Col. Fisher, answered in a special way. And they deserve equally special thanks this day.
(This essay is this week's “Light One Candle” column, written by Jerry Costello, of The Christophers; it is one of a series of weekly columns that deal with a variety of topics and current events.)
Background information:
The Christophers
Reflection Starter from St. Frances Xavier Cabrini
"We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone." - Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, whose memory the Church celebrates today
12 November 2014
Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major
It’s time for some classical music. This is a presentation of Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5 in B flat major as played by the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra (Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks), conducted by Lorin Maazel:
Thank You, Lord
Thank you, Lord, for the many ways You have blessed Your Church in the United States.
Oldest U.S. Catholic Diocese Celebrates 225 Years
"The United States' oldest Catholic diocese celebrated its 225th birthday Nov. 10 with a special Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore as part of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' annual fall general assembly.
"'We give thanks for the growth of the Catholic Church in America,' said Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, USCCB president, at the beginning of the Mass.
"More than 200 bishops concelebrated the Mass -- nearly one for each year of the existence of the Baltimore Archdiocese, established as a diocese Nov. 6, 1789, and made an archdiocese in 1808. . . .
"In his homily, Archbishop Lori noted that the original territory of the nation's first diocese encompassed 25,000 Catholics spread out over an area that now covers 37 states; there were only the original 13 states at the time of the diocese's creation in 1789.
"'Bishop John Carroll's resources were small,' Archbishop Lori said, but he was industrious, calling together the diocese's 22 priests for a synod covering such areas as religious education, finances, vocations and 'mixed marriages.' . . . 'They had faith, albeit the size of a mustard seed, that produced great works of faith, worship and witness.'"
A recent Catholic News Service article reported on this special anniversary celebration.
To access the complete report, please visit:
Catholic News Service: All Catholics called heirs to 'precious legacy' of first U.S. diocese (11 NOV 14)
Background information:
Archdiocese of Baltimore
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
"'We give thanks for the growth of the Catholic Church in America,' said Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, USCCB president, at the beginning of the Mass.
"More than 200 bishops concelebrated the Mass -- nearly one for each year of the existence of the Baltimore Archdiocese, established as a diocese Nov. 6, 1789, and made an archdiocese in 1808. . . .
"In his homily, Archbishop Lori noted that the original territory of the nation's first diocese encompassed 25,000 Catholics spread out over an area that now covers 37 states; there were only the original 13 states at the time of the diocese's creation in 1789.
"'Bishop John Carroll's resources were small,' Archbishop Lori said, but he was industrious, calling together the diocese's 22 priests for a synod covering such areas as religious education, finances, vocations and 'mixed marriages.' . . . 'They had faith, albeit the size of a mustard seed, that produced great works of faith, worship and witness.'"
A recent Catholic News Service article reported on this special anniversary celebration.
To access the complete report, please visit:
Catholic News Service: All Catholics called heirs to 'precious legacy' of first U.S. diocese (11 NOV 14)
Background information:
Archdiocese of Baltimore
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Reflection starter from St. Vincent de Paul
"Nature makes trees put down deep roots before having them bear fruit, and even this is done gradually." - Saint Vincent de Paul
11 November 2014
A Veterans Day Remembrance
As we observe Veterans Day today, I offer these reflections:
Presidential Proclamation – Veterans Day, 2014
To Bend Light: Veterans Day Prayers (10 NOV 11)
YouTube: Patriotic Tribute~Thank You
YouTube: Never Forget
Wreaths Across America: Every Day Is Veterans Day (31 OCT 12)
The DeerLake Weekly Letter: Letters addressed to (Any Soldier). (9 NOV 12)
Christopher Closeup: Airborne Ranger Infantry (10 NOV 12)
A big thank you and a salute to all those who have and are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces!!!
Background information:
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Day – November 11
Facebook: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs
Bureau of Maine Veterans Services
Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services
New Hampshire State Office of Veterans Services
Rhode Island Department of Human Services: Division of Veterans Affairs
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
Presidential Proclamation – Veterans Day, 2014
To Bend Light: Veterans Day Prayers (10 NOV 11)
YouTube: Patriotic Tribute~Thank You
YouTube: Never Forget
Wreaths Across America: Every Day Is Veterans Day (31 OCT 12)
The DeerLake Weekly Letter: Letters addressed to (Any Soldier). (9 NOV 12)
Christopher Closeup: Airborne Ranger Infantry (10 NOV 12)
A big thank you and a salute to all those who have and are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces!!!
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words,but to live by them.” – John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Background information:
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Day – November 11
Facebook: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs
Bureau of Maine Veterans Services
Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services
New Hampshire State Office of Veterans Services
Rhode Island Department of Human Services: Division of Veterans Affairs
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
Pope Francis on Scandal, Forgiveness, and Faith
"Every Christian, whatever his or her vocation, must be able to always forgive and never cause scandal, because 'scandal destroys the faith', said Pope Francis at Monday morning Mass in Casa Santa Marta. . . .
"'When a Christian man or a Christian woman, who goes to church, is part of the parish, does not live in this way, they cause scandal. How often have we heard men and women say: 'I do not go to church because it is better to be honest at home and not go to church like that man or woman who then do this, this, this . . .'. Scandal destroys, it destroys the faith! And that is why Jesus is so strong: 'Beware! Watch out! '. It would do us good to repeat this today: ‘Be on your guard!'. All of us are capable of causing scandal'."
Vatican Radio recently reported on a homily by Pope Francis on the readings for Monday (the Memorial of Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church and also the Monday of the Thirty-second week of Ordinary Time), in which he encouraged Christians to avoid scandal, to forgive 'forever' if those who have wronged us ask for it and have repented, and to ask God to increase our faith.
To access the complete Vatican Radio report, please visit:
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