The Mayos: "It Is Well with My Soul"

 As we continue to live this week, I offer this version of The Mayos presenting "It Is Well with My Soul":

 

Geography Awareness Week

This week, the week of 18-22 November, is being observed as Geography Awareness Week. an initiative designed to raise awareness about deficiency in geography education and excite people about geography as both a discipline and as a part of everyday life.

According to the National Geographic Society, this annual public awareness program encourages citizens young and old to think and learn about the significance of place and how we affect and are affected by it.

For more information about this observance, please visit:

National Geographic Society: Geography Awareness Week

Thank You, Lord

Thank you, lord, for the blessing of Your kind and loving Providence.

Br. Athanasius Becker, O.P., on the Sweetness of Scripture

"Scripture is often sweet. I am consoled every time I hear in Psalm 81, 'Oh, that my people would hear me, that Israel would walk in my ways! At once I would subdue their foes, turn my hand against their enemies.' Whatever I am suffering, I am reminded that God desires my salvation more than I do. He has promised to help us at the very moment we call upon him."

In a recent commentary, Brother Athanasius Becker, O.P., reflected on the comforting words of Scripture as we face the afflictions in our life..

To access Br. Athanasius' complete post, please visit:

Dominicana: The Afflicting Redeemer (16 NOV 24) 

Reflection Starter from Arthur Helps

"Having once decided to achieve a certain task, achieve it at all costs of tedium and distaste. The gain in self confidence of having accomplished a tiresome labor is immense." - Sir Arthur Helps

The Jazz Ambassadors: "In the Mood"

It's time for some jazz, a genre of music I enjoy. Here is a presentation of "In the Mood" by the United States Army Field Band's Jazz Ambassadors:

 

Anniversary Blessings, Richard and Lynn!!!

Anniversary greetings to brother Richard and his wife LynnMarie, whose wedding anniversary is today!!! May this day, and each day of the the upcoming year, be filled with the Lord's choicest blessings!!!

American Education Week

This week, the week of 18-22 November, is being observed as American Education Week. This observance, which dates back to 1921, was initiated to honor the efforts of students to learn; to recognize the professionalism and dedication of teachers, support staff and other educators; to thank parents and members of the community who help students succeed; and to rededicate the community at large to quality public education for every student.

Individual daily observances of American Education Week include:

• Family Day (Tuesday)
• Education Support Professionals Day (Wednesday),
• Educator for a Day (Thursday), and
• Substitute Educators Day (Friday).

Presidential Proclamation:

Presidential Proclamation on American Education Week, 2024

Background information:

National Education Association: American Education Week

Thank You, Lord

 Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of the smiles that come our way each day.

Pamela Mandela on Unconventional Humor in the Bible

"Most Christians rightfully approach Scripture reading with much reverence and a certain somberness. We hunger to find a deeper meaning in the seriousness of the scribed words, which we like to consider mostly in the literal sense. Rarely do we think that these inspired texts can be humourous, and seldom do we fathom to enjoy a good laugh in them. Yet Qoheleth teaches that there is a proper time for everything, including humour (Ecclesiastes 3:4). We know that the Lord Jesus was not always sorrowful and serious during His physical life on earth. Some of us can admit that the Lord Jesus cried (John 11:35) and yet deny that He used humourous examples to have a little fun with His disciples while teaching valuable lessons.

"We may prefer to perceive the Lord Jesus as a serious and stern teacher, not one who makes light moments in His packed itinerary. We forget that humans are made in the image and after the likeness of God, and if we can find certain things funny and make humorous comments every so often, so can God!. . ."

In a recent commentary, writer Dr. Pamela Mandela reflected, with biblical examples, on the importance of humor in our lives (with the need for proper balance).

To access her complete post, please visit:

Catholic Stand: Unconventional Humour in the Bible (18 OCT 24)

Reflection Starter from F. Scott Fitzgerald

"It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living." - F. Scott Fitzgerald

"When the King Shall Come Again"

As we continue our Sunday celebration, I offer this version of "When the King Shall Come Again":