Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Ashamed of the Gospel?


Robert George Speaks at National Prayer Breakfast

From time to time we run across something that impresses us and naturally we want to share it. This is such a case. The video is 33 minutes but well worth the time. The text can be found here.

Monday, May 26, 2014

Sunday, May 25, 2014

New Book by Scott Hahn - Sounds Great

Angels and Saints: A Biblical Guide to Friendship with God's Holy Ones

I just read an excerpt from Scott Hahn's new book and it sounds great. Please go here to read the excerpt.

And here is the link to the Amazon page.

After reading the excerpt, I think you are going to be as enthused about it as I am.

Sunday, May 11, 2014

A Tribute to Mothers - A Maintenance Manual


One of my Deacons often posts a great article in my parish's bulletin. Here is another::

A Tribute to Mothers... 

Today is Mother's Day and a friend of mine reminded me that many of us take better care of our cars then we do our mothers and yet we only expect our cars to last 5 or 6 years but we expect our mothers to last for a lifetime. Maybe we need maintenance manual for mothers so we would know how to take care of them at least as well as we do our automobiles.

Here are some items that might be included in such a manual.

Engine: A mother's engine is one of the most dependable kinds you can find. She can reach top speed from a prone position at a single cry from a sleeping child. But regular breaks are needed to keep up that peak performance. Mothers need a hot bath and a nap every 100 miles, a baby-sitter and a night out every 1,000 miles, and a live in baby-sitter .with a one week vacation every 10,000 miles.

Battery: Mother's batteries should be recharged regularly. Handmade items, notes, unexpected hugs and kisses, and frequent "I love you"-s will do very well for a recharge.

Carburetor: When a mother's carburetor floods it should be treated immediately with Kleenex and a soft shoulder.

Brakes: See that she uses her brakes to slow down often and come to a full stop occasionally. (A squeaking sound indicates a need for a rest).

Fuel: Most mothers can run indefinitely on coffee, leftovers and salads, but an occasional dinner for two at a nice restaurant will really add to her efficiency.

Chassis: Mother when their bodies are properly maintained. Regular exercise should be encouraged and provided for as necessary. A change in hairdo or makeup in spring and fall are also helpful. If you notice the chassis begins to sag, immediately start a program of walking, jogging, swimming, or bike riding. These are most effective when done with fathers.

Tune-ups: Mother need regular tune-ups. Compliments are both the cheapest and most effective way to keep a mother purring contentedly.

If these instructions are followed consistently, this fantastic creation and gift from God, that we call MOTHER should last a lifetime and give good service and constant love to those who need her most.

Happy Mother's Day and Blessings to all Mothers!

Easter Season, Easter People


Some of my Franciscan family, my faith community and friends know that when Easter season comes I encourage everyone to jump up and down with joy and shout “Alleluia.” Who cares if people think you’re crazy; we are an Easter people, we recognize that Jesus’ resurrection is the event that will gift us with everlasting happiness. So it is most fitting we rejoice. And not only during the Easter season, but year round.

People should ask, “What bring that person so much joy?” Be sure to tell them the secret.

In the 4/27/14 issue of Our Sunday Visitor, Gretchen Crowe reminds me of some things we should be doing during these eight weeks of Easter. Here they are:

Be joyful.
Increase quality family time.
Pick up a spiritual book.
Maintain spiritual devotions.
Follow the Faith.
Give.
Celebrate.
Turn to the Holy Spirit.
Befriend a saint.

See her article here.

Happy Easter!