"On a Wonderful Day Like Today "

As this blessed week draws to a close, I offer this version of the Portland, OR, Choir & Orchestra presenting "On a Wonderful Day Like Today ":

 

Anniversary Blessings, Christopher and Valerie!!!

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

Belated Birthday Blessings, Mary!!!

Belated birthday greetings to daughter Mary-Elizabeth, whose birthday was yesterday! May each day of the upcoming year be filled with an outpouring of the Lord's choicest blessings!!!

Thank You, Lord

Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of various types of programs for youth.

Fr. Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, on October and Life Changes

"A few years ago, I discovered a song called 'When October Goes.' (Listen here) Composed by Barry Manilow, the lyrics were based on unpublished lyrics written by the late songwriter and musical legend, Johnny Mercer.  Like 'September of My Years' by Frank Sinatra, this relatively modern classic (recorded in the early 1980s) describes the season of autumn as a metaphor for the passing of time, the process of aging, and the inevitable changes in life."

In a recent commentary, Father Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, reflected on this song and on the comforting way St. Ftancis de Sales offers us as we face changes in life.

To access Fr. Kolodziej's complete post, please visit:

De Sales Weekly: Provincial Reflection: When October Goes... (22 OCT 26)

Reflection Starter from St. Anthony Mary Claret

"The Christian who desires to follow Jesus carrying his cross must bear in mind that the name 'Christian' means 'learner or imitator of Christ' and that if he wishes to bear that noble title worthily he must above all do as Christ charges us in the Gospel: We must oppose or deny ourselves, take up the cross, and follow him.” - Saint Anthony Mary Claret, whose memory the Church celebrates today (24 October)

"Thou Art Worthy"

As we continue to live this week, I offer this version of "Thou Art Worthy":

 

Birthday Blessings, Charlotte!!!

Birthday greetings to niece Charlotte, whose birthday is today!!! May this day, and each day of the upcoming year, be filled with the Lord's choicest blessings!!!

Belated Birthday Blessings, Christopher!!!

Belated birthday greetings to (great) nephew Christopher Kirch, who recently celebrated his birthday!!! May each day of the coming year be richly blessed!!!

Thank You, Lord

Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of those who encourage others during their vocation discernment process.

Philip Kosloski on St. Paul of the Cross

"While some saints knew they were going to be a priest at an early age, St. Paul of the Cross didn't immediately pursue the priesthood when the opportunity presented itself. In fact, for most of his early life he pursued a variety of potential futures. Initially he felt called to give his life as a crusader, willing to shed his blood for the sake of the Church.

"While he did join an army, he ended up returning home, hearing in prayer before the tabernacle that God had other plans for him. Next St. Paul's uncle wanted to arrange for him to marry a woman who had a sizable dowry. He agreed to meet her, but he did not feel that God was calling him to marriage, and so did not go forward with plan."

In a recent commentary, writer Philip Kosloski reflected on St. Paul of the Croass and his journey toward priesthood.

To access Mr. Kosloski's complete post, please visit:

Aleteia; Philip Kosloski: Here's what St. Paul of the Cross did with a large inheritance (19 OCT 26)

Reflection Starter from St. Paul of the Cross

"Be very careful to retain peace of heart, because Satan casts his lines in troubled waters." - Saint Paul of the Cross, whose memory the Church celebrates today (20 October)