Category Archives: Feasts, Solemnities, Memorials, and other Great Celebrations

Any posts related to the Feasts, Solemnities, Memorials, and other Great Celebrations of the Roman Catholic Church

Fear Not!

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Uncorrupted Ark of His Dwelling Place- Please pray for us! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2012 EA photographer

The flash of the fireworks is gone from the sky. That gaudy-glitzy ball has dropped.  Noise-makers are silent, and punchbowls are empty. 2012 is officially underway. Thankfully, this is not the end of a mere night-long celebration, but the beginning of a time of grace. As we begin our new year, we celebrate the Feast of the Solemnity of The Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. Today, we focus our admiration on the Blessed Mother and our gratitude on God, for His gift of Divine Maternity to the Blessed Virgin. We celebrate Mary as the Theotokos – the Mother of Son of God.

Antiphon 3 from the Vespers for today’s feast reads:

Your blessed and fruitful virginity is like the bush flaming, yet unburned, which Moses saw on Sinai. Pray for us Mother of God.

Christ was fully human and fully Divine. He did not just take up residence in the belly of the Blessed Virgin, or merely temporarily occupy available space. Rather, in His humility and wisdom, Jesus Christ willed that His very flesh and blood would be drawn from the Spotless Virgin. Mary was the Immaculate Tabernacle that He chose to house and form the substance of His humanity. Today, we celebrate this mystery which is beyond human comprehension. Tonight’s Vespers Antiphons express it so beautifully:

O marvelous exchange! Man’s creator has become man, born of a virgin. We have been made sharers in the divinity of Christ who humbled himself to share in our humanity.

By your miraculous birth of the Virgin You have fulfilled the Scriptures: like a gentle rain falling upon the Earth You have come down to save Your people. O God, we praise You!

This is a moment of joy, of intense gratitude, and celebration. Together we rejoice the singular honor and privilege given to Our Lady, while we simultaneously celebrate our own share in Christ’s gift of grace.

What a fitting start to the new year! Today we recall the words of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, as he heralded her high calling. St. Gabriel greets Mary with: “Hail Full of Grace (Luke 1: 28).”  Recall, the Greek word, kechatitomene (Kεχαριτωμένη) is scripturally used only here, and the connotation is that Mary is the one who is so replete with grace that not even the slightest shadow of darkness is present. Before St. Gabriel announces God’s salvific plan, which elicits Mary’s fiat, he first directs her to: “Fear not Mary, for you have found favor with God (Luke 1:30).”

Mother of Our Redeermer, Please pray for us! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2012 EA photographer

Today as we embark on a new year, this message is profound. St. Gabriel is the messenger of God’s grace, and He well understands how overwhelming this pure Gift will be. “Perfect Love casts out fear (1 John 4:18).” It is only with this Love that Mary (and the rest of us) can complete the mission assigned by God. It is only by accepting the Gift of Pure Love, that – like Mary –  we can say “yes” to God. The Angel Gabriel tells Mary that that the Divine Child, the Emmanuel Whom she is to bear, is to be named “Jesus.” This Child’s very name reflects His essence and means “God is with us!”

As 2012 dawns, we do well to remember that God is indeed with us. Just like Mary, we are told to “Be Not Afraid!” In fact, the admonition to “Be Not Afraid!” appears 365 times in the Bible! In nearly every book of the Bible we find those words. This new year is pregnant with possibilities. We have been given a great gift. 2012 will be full of joys and challenges. Yet, through it all God is indeed with us. In accepting His perfect Love, fear melts.

With Mary, let us rejoice in this new day, this new year.With hearts full of gratitude, let us turn to Our Creator, and through Mary, may we ask His Blessing upon this year.  From the Divine Office together let us pray:

God Our Father, may we always profit by the prayers of the Virgin Mother Mary, for You bring us life and salvation through Jesus Christ her Son who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.

A Blessed 2012 to you and yours!

Ad Jesum per Mariam

M.A. JMJ

Jesus, Mary, Joseph, Pray for Us!

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She wrapped Him in clothes and laid Him in a manger. . . .( Holy Hill Basilica) © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011.

She wrapped Him in clothes and laid Him in a manger. . . .( Holy Hill Basilica) © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011.

The shepherds hastened to Bethlehem, where they found Mary and Joseph and the child cradled in the manger (Luke 2:16). – Entrance Antiphon from today’s Holy Mass, and Antiphon 3 from Evening Prayer I.

The Feast of the Holy Family celebrates the special relationship created by God, to exemplify His unfailing tenderness. Today it is His voice that ever so gently reminds us of the dignity and sanctity of the family in the readings from Sacred Scripture in both the Liturgy of the Hours and the readings for today’s Mass. Throughout the hours of this great Feast day, we are subtly reminded of the beauty of God’s plan for the family.

Last night’s Vesper’s readings, from Deuteronomy 5:16, directs:

Honor your father and mother, as the Lord, your God has commanded you, that you might have a long life and prosperity in the land which the Lord, your God, is giving you.

This commandment is the only one with a promise attached, and it is significant that it is placed immediately after the three commandments dealing with one’s relationship to God. Our relationship with our human family is quintessentially important, second only to our relationship with God. God wants us to enjoy peace within this relationship. Even so, He recognizes our human weaknesses and offers us the guidance we need to live in harmony. Just like in the reading from Deuteronomy, God again promises us rewards of grace for even attempting to abide in family unity. The First Reading from today’s Holy Mass directs us:

God sets a father in honor over his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons. Whoever honors his father atones for sins, and he preserves himself from them. When he prays, he is heard; he stores up riches who reveres his mother. Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children, and when he prays he is heard. Whoever reveres his father will live a long life; he obeys his father who brings comfort to his mother. My son, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him not as long as he lives. Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him; revile him not all the days of his life; kindness to a father will not be  forgotten, firmly planted against the debt of your sins – a house raised in justice to you (Sirach 3:2-7, 12-14).

God could have chosen to save us as an adult, a royal monarch, visiting His people with ostensible power and might. However, instead He chose to be born into that fragile human relationship called a “family”. He chose to save us from a crib and a cross, rather than from a cloud and a throne.

The ideal family, is a perfect reflection of the beauty and grace of the Blessed Trinity. In the Holy Family we see the purity of God’s love – the refulgence of His Brilliance – unified in three hearts: one Sacred, one Immaculate, and one Holy. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph labored together- as individuals and as family, they cooperated with God’s grace and fulfilled His Plan. From the outside, their family appeared just as messy as any of ours. The unplanned pregnancy that preceded the marriage of Mary and Joseph probably did not  endear them to relatives. A quick glance at the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1: 1) reveals not only kings, and nobility, but also prostitutes, thieves and murderers. In the ultimate act of humility, the Incarnation, Jesus chooses to be born into this complex nexus of humanity. He could have created an extended family of saints- each with pristine character, and spotless lives to call his own. But He didn’t. Instead, he reserved that singular grace and privilege of an Immaculate Life for the woman whose flesh would form His own, and whose blood would fill His tiny veins.

He was Obedient to them. . . .( Holy Hill Basilica) © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

He was Obedient to them. . . .( Holy Hill Basilica) © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

From the Old Testament to the New, God directs us how to behave as a family. For it is in family that His tender love is most visibly revealed. He spells out clearly how we need to interact with one another, and then He offers us the ultimate example of such love in the Holy Family.

Today’s Second Reading (Colossians 3:12-21) details the Almighty’s plan for harmonious family life:

Brothers and sisters: put on as God’s chosen ones holy and beloved heartfelt compassion, kindness, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. Over all these put on love, that is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful. . . .

It goes on to specify:

Wives be subordinate to your husbands as is proper in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and avoid any bitterness toward them. Children obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, so that they might not become discouraged.

Wow! If one wants details, there they are. It is so difficult to translate those specifications into daily practice. I fail constantly. Yet, I know in my heart, that at least trying to comply with God’s command brings grace. Contemporary life is so messy- secular threats to family life are everywhere: relativism, materialism, spiritual starvation, isolation,  addictions, vanity, etc.. We need this Feast of the Holy Family to remind us that with God’s grace, we can achieve the joy He ordained for each of us, and our beloved family members, long before time began. Our omnipotent God would not have outlined His plan for family life so explicitly, and then leave us to flounder. He has given us the plan, and in Jesus, Mary and Joseph, the ultimate example. Thus, He will also grant us the grace to reach the goal of family bliss, if only we ask.

Please join me in praying the closing prayer from tonight’s Vespers:

Father, help us to live as the Holy Family, united in respect and love. Bring us to the joy and peace of your eternal home. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever. Amen.

Joyous Feast of the Holy Family,

Christmas Blessings,

Ad Jesum per Mariam

M.A. JMJ

Hail Full of Grace (Kεχαριτωμένη)!

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—Hail Full of Grace! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. photo from St. Mary's Maternity of the Blessed Virgin, Richfield, WI, EA photographer

—Hail Full of Grace! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. photo from St. Mary's Maternity of the Blessed Virgin, Richfield, WI, EA photographer

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is among my favorites. Today we celebrate the singular grace and privilege that was bestowed upon Our Heavenly Mother: namely that she was conceived without the stain of Original Sin. The Blessed Mother was to provide a pure Tabernacle of human flesh within which Our Divine was to rest and grow for nine months. In anticipation of Mary’s fiat, Our Lord prevented the disfigurement of Original Sin from ever touching her Immaculate Soul- His gift of grace to Our Lady who existed absolutely and totally replete with grace from the first moment of her being.

Indeed, the Angel Gabriel greets the Blessed Mother not with the words “Hail Mary,” but rather “Hail Full of Grace.” The Greek word, kechatitomene (Kεχαριτωμένη)  is used exclusively to name the Blessed Mother, and it means full (overflowing) with grace. The connotation of this word is that Our Lady, was so brimming with the gift of God’s grace that there was not even an iota of room for anything opposed to that grace. My Koine Greek is pretty rusty, but what I remember is that kechatitomene  is in the aorist tense – a past perfect tense denoting an action that was begun in the past, but continued into the present. Mary was conceived sinless, and that state continued into present.

When God uses a word in place of a person’s name or renames an individual, it bears deep significance as it reflects the very being and mission of the individual. Recall for example that:  Abram (exalted father) was renamed Abraham (father of many nations), Jacob wrestled with an angel and was given the name Israel (contended with God), Simon the fisherman was renamed Peter- the Rock,  and the Pharisee Saul was transformed into the Christian Paul.  Thus, when the Angel of the Annunciation refers to the Blessed Mother, not by her given name of Mary, but rather as “kechatitomene,” it reflects the past of her sinless conception, the present of the moment of the Annunciation, and the future of her mission as the Immaculate Conception – a mission which continues to this very day.

Throughout history we have been given glimpses of this glorious mission of hers. In 1858, Our Lady appeared to14 year-old Bernadette Soubirous in a series of eighteen apparitions in Lourdes, France. On March 25, Our Lady revealed to Bernadette her singular and unique role with the words: “I am the Immaculate Conception.” Since then we have seen a superabundance of grace pour through this place through Our Lady’s Immaculate intercession. The apparitions at Lourdes clearly demonstrate that Our Lady had been sent by God to Earth to give heavenly ascent to the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception which had been infallibly proclaimed only four years earlier by Pope Pius IX. It never ceases to amaze me how Our Lord transcends space and time, and communicates His plan to us in every generation.

Our Lady of Good Help © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011 EA photographer

Our Lady of Good Help © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011 EA photographer

One year ago today, on December 8, 2010, my family and I were given the tremendous blessing of being present at the Shine of Our Lady of Good Help, as Bishop David L. Ricken officially proclaimed the Marian apparitions which occurred there in 1859 to be worthy of belief and gave the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help the full approbation of the Church. I will remember that Holy Mass as long as I live!

After years of visiting this holy site, finally seeing it officially recognized by the Holy Mother Church was beyond words. I sat there with tears of joy streaming down my face as Bishop Ricken read his proclamation and explained the extensive process of investigation which had led to the decree. I was simultaneously numb and exuberant. All those years longing for Our Lady’s message to receive the attention it deserves had finally come to fruition. The emotion was overwhelming! I could not help but be aware of the uniqueness of that moment in history, and I was so grateful to witness it.  As if it were not enough to merely be present, my son Kenny had the privilege of serving as the Bishop Ricken’s Miter and Crosier bearer for Holy Mass. This mother’s heart swelled with gratitude as I prayed for the aspired vocation of my son, and experienced an incredible outpouring of grace.

This year we will celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, at Holy Hill Basilica, National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, another place that is dear to my heart.  I love these exquisite Holy Masses con-celebrated by the entire Carmelite Community. Our Lady, as the Immaculate Conception, continues to send God’s grace upon this community, and they respond to it with such beauty and devotion.

Mother of God Pray for Us! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011 EA photographer

Mother of God Pray for Us! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011 EA photographer

This year the children and I are adding The Holy Hour of Grace to our celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Drew Mariani of Relevant Radio spotlighted the Holy Hour of Grace a few days ago, and complete information can be found on the Mother of All Peoples website. This  bimonthly on-line magazine is compiled by the renowned mariologist, Dr. Mark Miravalle, and the address is:  http://www.motherofallpeoples.com/Articles/Marian_Private_Revelation/the-hour-of-grace.html. 

 Evidently, in the Spring of 1947, Our Lady appeared as Mary the Mother of God to a young nurse, Pierina Gilli, in a hospital chapel in the small Northern Italian town of Montichiari. Our Lady was very sad, and her heart was pierced with three swords. The first sword represented the unworthy celebration of Holy Mass and Holy Communion unworthily received. The second sword represented being unfaithful to and relinquishing one’s vocation as a priest or religious; while the last sword stood for the betrayal of the True Faith. In response, Our Lady requested prayer, sacrifice and penance. Our Lady continued to appear to Pierina eleven times, including an apparition at the Basilica of Montichiari on December 8, 1947, where thousands of people were present.

On that day, Our Lady appeared to Pierina in the following manner and stated:

“ Our Lady appeared on a large white staircase, decorated with a white, red and yellow rose over her heart. She said with a smile: “I am the Immaculate Conception.” And descending several steps with great majesty She continued: “I am Mary, full of grace, Mother of My Divine Son Jesus Christ.” Descending even more, She said:

Through my coming to Montichiari, I wish to be known as the Rosa Mystica. It is my wish that every year, on 8th December, at noon, the Hour of Grace for the World be celebrated. Many divine and bodily graces will be received through this devotion.

Our Lord, my Divine Son Jesus, will send His overflowing mercy if good people will pray continuously for their sinful brother.

One should very soon notify the Holy Father of the Church, Pope Pius XII, that it is my wish that the Hour of Grace for the World be made known and spread throughout the world. If anyone is unable to visit his church, yet will pray at noon at home, he will also receive graces through me. Whoever prays on these tiles and weeps tears of penance, will find a secure heavenly ladder and receive protection and grace through my motherly heart (Mother of All Peoples Jonathan Baker, 12/2/11) .”

Our Lady specified that this world-wide Hour of Grace was to be celebrated in the following manner. It is to begin at noon and end at 1pm on December 8th. One must begin by reading Psalm 51 three times with arms extended in prayer. The remainder of the hour can be spent as in prayer as one chooses, (rosary, personal prayer, meditation, etc). However, additional care to resist distractions is requested, and we are to intercede in penance and reparation for not only ourselves, but all those in our lives. One does not need to be in a church to participate in the Holy Hour of Grace.

Regarding this devotion, Our Lady stated:

“This Hour of Grace will produce great and numerous conversions. Hardened and cold hearts resembling this marble will be touched by divine Grace, and they will become faithful to Our Lord in loyal love heart (Mother of All Peoples Jonathan Baker, 12/2/11) .”

 While not yet officially approved, the Bishop of Giulo Sanguineti  has publicly expressed his openness to the apparitions and has encouraged pilgrimages there.

I am not certain how much undistracted prayer I will be able to offer with my brood of eight in tow at the Basilica of Holy Hill today, but we are going to try. Please consider joining me where ever you may be in this world-wide Hour of Grace in honor of Our Lady, the Immaculate Conception.

Blessings

Ad Jesum per Mariam

M.A.  JMJ

Feast of St. Andrew Christmas Novena

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St. Andrew please pray for us! Holy Hill Basilica Mosaic above the Altar © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

St. Andrew please pray for us! Holy Hill Basilica- Mosaic above the Altar © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

Happy Feast of St. Andrew! As this feast is celebrated in both the Western and Eastern arms of the Church, it is one of my favorites. Intuitively, there seems to be something significant in beginning Advent with the feast of a martyr and an apostle. It is as if we are subtly reminded that this season is meant to be one of penance and evangelization.

  Scripture and Sacred Tradition tell us much about St. Andrew. He and St. Peter were the sons of Jonas, and they lived in Bethsaida, which was a town in Galilee on the shores of the Genesareth.  As we examine St. Andrew’s life, there are lessons that may translate into a more personally fruitful Advent.

St. Andrew did not journey out to the desert to see St. John the Baptist out of curiosity, nor was he merely following the crowd. No, St. Andrew was ready to leave behind all that mattered and become a true disciple of St. John the Baptist. In penance and prayer this Advent, we too can follow the voice of one crying out, “Prepare the way of Lord!”

Later, when St. John the Baptist identifies Jesus by stating: “Behold the Lamb of God,” St. Andrew is again prepared to forsake his spiritual security in order to embrace a deeper relationship with the Messiah. For St. Andrew to follow Jesus Christ from Capernaum to Jerusalem, he must leave John the Baptist to his mission in the desert. This Advent, we too can grow beyond the comfort and complacency of our spiritual security, by reaching for a closer union with Jesus. Like St. Andrew, Jesus asks us to risk that which matters most in our lives. Similarly, Jesus asks us to place it all- our fears, dreams and lives- in His hands with confidence.

Once St. Andrew finds Jesus, he introduces Him to his brother Peter. This Advent, we can bring Jesus to those around us. Like St. Peter, they too may feel the call to forsake everything and follow Him. Evangelization doesn’t necessarily mean shouting from the roof-tops (not recommended in the slippery, frozen tundra of Wisconsin). Rather, just by quietly living Christmas as Christians, we bear witness, and bid others to do the same. We are called to invite- He will do the rest.

St. Andrew accepted Jesus’ command to: “Go forth to all Nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit… (MT 28:19).” He traveled beyond his comfort zone preaching the Good News along the Baltic, into what are now Russia, Romania and the Ukraine. St. Andrew was later martyred in Patras, Greece, where he was tied to a cross.  Tradition holds that St. Andrew was crucified on an x-shaped cross out humility- not feeling worthy to die as Our Lord. This Advent, if we embrace our crosses with similar humility it can’t help but bear fruit.

Hail and Blessed Be.... Holy Hill Basilica Window © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

Hail and Blessed Be.... Holy Hill Basilica Window © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

One of my favorite things about this feast is the novena which begins today. This novena is a poignant reminder of what really matters during this Sacred Season. The repetition of this lovely verse provides a rhythm that gently flows from day to day- reinforcing the true meaning of Christmas. The rhythm is strong enough to offer an oasis for those of us seeking respite from the chaotic noise of the secular season.

 It is piously believed that whoever recites the following prayer fifteen times a day from the Feast of St. Andrew to Christmas Eve will obtain their request.

The prayer is:

Hail and Blessed be the Hour and the moment in which the Son of God was born of the Most Pure Virgin Mary at midnight in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayer, and grant my desires through the merits of Our Savior, Jesus Christ, and of His Blessed Mother.

Imprimatur
+MICHAEL AUGUSTINE, Archbishop of New York
New York, February 6, 1897

One may choose to recite all fifteen prayers at once, or it can be or broken up and prayed throughout the day- perhaps with the meal prayer or the Angelus.

I have been praying this novena annually for thirteen years, and have never been disappointed. One Advent, I was reciting this prayer for the child I was carrying. It was a dangerous pregnancy for the baby and I- there was a real chance that both of our lives were in jeopardy. My beautiful, healthy baby girl was born (one month early) exactly ten days after the novena ended. A year later, I prayed this novena for my Dad and his conversion. He was officially received into the Catholic Church fourteen days after the novena ended, and died of cancer just sixteen days later. Each year I have prayed it, I have truly felt an abundance of grace. This novena is powerful!!! I invite you to join my family as we pray the Christmas Novena this year.

Blessings,

Ad Jesum per Mariam,

MA  JMJ

A.M.G.D.

How Lovely The King’s Daughter As She Enters, Her Raiment Arrayed in Gold.

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St. Anne and The Blessed Virgin © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

St. Anne and The Blessed Virgin © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011. EA photographer

Happy Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple! This feast is of ancient lineage, and has its roots in the dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary the New in Jerusalem,, near the site of the ancient Temple. The Basilica was constructed by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 543 A.D., and later destroyed in the year 614 during the siege of Jerusalem. While the Basilica was destroyed, the Feast in honor of Our Lady blossomed and spread. Through the early centuries it was preserved in the monasteries, and introduced into the Papal Chapel by Pope Gregory XI in 1372. Eventually the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary into the Temple became part of the Roman Missal.

This ancient feast commemorates a pivotal event in the life of the young Virgin Mary. According to Sacred Tradition, Mary was the only child of Anna and Joachim. In thanksgiving to God for the gift of Mary, Anna and Joachim brought the young girl to the Temple, and consecrated her to God. The Blessed Virgin remained at the temple – close to God-  to be raised and educated in the manner fitting of her high calling. From her youth, the Blessed Virgin lived a life of prayer, contemplation, sacrifice, and deep union with her Beloved.

One of the beauties of this feast is that it is universally celebrated by both the Eastern and Western arms of the Church. Indeed, to this day it is liturgically celebrated as the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Roman Catholics in  the Western Church, and the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple by Eastern Rite Catholics and Orthodox Churches.

In 1997, Blessed Pope John Paul II enhanced the beauty of this Feast with the inauguration of a new facet: Pro Orantibus Day. Beginning in 1997, Blessed Pope John Paul the Great set aside November 21 as a day of prayer for contemplative religious. As Mary’s young life was one set aside in deep union with God through prayer, how fitting that the Universal Church celebrates Her Consecration with a day of prayer for those who pray. Pro Orantibus Day is meant to be a celebration of gratitude for those in monastic and religious communities who support the church through the essential work of prayer. Without these dedicated men and women the rest of us could not survive.

My son is discerning a call to the contemplative life- he aspires to become a Carmelite priest. Several months ago we were in the car, driving home from Holy Hill, and having a chat about his aspired choice of vocations. I asked why he seemed to be drawn to life as a Carmelite instead of as a parish priest. He said, “Mom, the parish priests are the hands; without them we – as the Body of Christ – would be lost. We need the hands to function. But, the contemplative priests, they are the heart. Without the hands, the body bleeds out; without the heart there is no life’s blood. Mom, I choose to be the heart.” I remember choking back tears, silently thanking God for my son, and praying hard that he achieve the calling of his heart. (Please pray too, for not  only for my son, but for all the young men who are discerning vocations). While I recognize (as does he) that “Who can know the Mind of God?” and  God might very well have other plans for his future, I still loved his analogy.

With it, I have reflected on all the religious (both contemplative and active). who have enriched my life so abundantly. Digging way back into the memory bank, as a third-grader I recall  the tremendous respect I had for Sister Julliet, O.P. Likewise, with fondness I remember the Springfield Dominicans  who shaped my adolescent years. These industrious women of prayer instilled faith, while teaching  Algebra, Chemistry, Biology, Literature, and Music. I remember Sr. Mary Imelda standing as hall monitor, with her fifteen decade rosary slipping through her fingers as her lips moved in soundless  prayer. Her silent witness spoke volumes. Last year when Sr. Imelda finally reached her eternal reward at 101, I hoped and prayed she knew the gratitude that I felt for all those prayers that she, and Sr. Marilyn Brennan, Sr. Theophane, Sr. Patricia Burke, Sr. Catherine Marie, Sr. Mary Paul, Sr. Margaret Mary, Sr. Regina, Sr. Joseph and their community uttered on our behalf.

In college it was the prayers of the School Sisters of Notre Dame- Sr. Joselma, Sr. Carol Marie Wildt, Sr. Patricia Anne Obremski, Sr. Joan Penzenstadler, Sr. Isaac Jogues, Sr. Rose Bast, and many others that wove the tapestry of ora et labora. While in graduate school, I relied upon  the prayers and rigorous academic discipline of  the Jesuit Fathers.

 Now, as my little girls become young ladies- the prayers and guidance of the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary: Sr. Marie, Sr. Ericka, Sr. Andre Marie, Sr. Anitza Marie, the effervescent Sr. Maria Faustina,  and their incredible community,  mean so much to our family. We are equally appreciative of the friendship and prayers of Mary Clare Stevens as she begins her new order: The Missionary Servants of the Holy Family, and our Franciscan song-bird (former choir director), Sr. Lorraine De Febbo.

 Most especially, today I pray with appreciation for the Carmelite Friars whose daily presence in our lives is such a tremendous source of grace.  Two of my dear friends, Fr. Redemptus Short, OCD  and Fr. Matthias Montgomery OCD, are celebrating this Feast on the other side of eternity this year, Through the Communion of Saints, I know they continue to pray for us. On August 22, the Feast of the Queenship of  Mary-we had the privilege to be present at Holy Hill as our friend Fr. Cyril Guise OCD celebrated his Diamond Jubilee- his sixtieth year as a Carmelite. How does one adequately say, “Thank you,” for sixty years of prayer? For these, and all the Carmelites, we are so grateful. On this the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple and Pro Orantibus Day,  let us praise God for the blessing of the heart- those who offer their lives in prayer for us.

Blessings, Ad Jesum Per Mariam,  MA JMJ

The Lord Our All Powerful God is King, Alleluia!

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Viva Cristo Rey! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011.

Viva Cristo Rey! © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011.

Happy Feast of Christ the King! This feast was initiated in 1925 by Pope Pius XI. He was reportedly walking in the Papal Gardens with a cardinal, who noted how dejected the pontiff seemed. In the conversation that ensued, the Holy Father discussed his frustration with the flood of –isms that were spreading darkness throughout the world. He detailed the ramifications of:  Mussolini’s Fascism, Hitler’s Nazism, Stalin’s Communism, Freud’s psychological determinism, and the American materialism that was manifest in the roaring twenties. Pope Pius XI  explained that Christ and His dominion remain the solitary answer to humanity’s deepest longing. These other false doctrines fail to satisfy our longing and need for Christ and His Kingship. It is only in submission to Christ as our Sovereign, that the human soul finds fulfillment and peace.

 This conversation prompted Pope Pius XI to write the encyclical Quas Primas, and initiate the Feast of Christ the King in 1925.  The Holy Father envisioned that this Feast could have multiple effects. First, He hoped that that rulers of this world would understand that they are bound to respect Christ (Quas Primas 31). Pope Pius XI also hoped that the nations of the world would accept that the Church has a right to freedom, and immunity from the state (Quas Primas, 32). Similarly, the Pontiff hoped that The Feast of Christ the King would empower Christians with courage and strength, as we are reminded that Jesus Christ must reign in our hearts, minds, bodies and wills (Quas Primas, 33).

As contemporary Americans, the concept of kingship seems a bit foreign to us. Didn’t we throw that off in 1776? That staunchly independent streak of ours seems to balk at the slightest hint of subservience to royalty. We like to think of Jesus as our friend and brother (as indeed He is), and even accept Him as our Merciful Savior; however, when it comes to acknowledging Jesus as our Sovereign King, and submitting ourselves to His Reign, there we find difficulty.

I’ll admit that I often feel empathy with Job, in just wanting to have God come on down and “talk things over like reasonable adults”. As Job’s companions wag their fingers and add to his grief, Job laments: “But I would speak with the Almighty; I wish to reason with God (Job 13:3).” In my arrogance, like Job, how often have I thought, “O.K., we must just have a misunderstanding here- Lord, let me just restate my position, my plan, my perspective, and I’m sure You will agree…”  I really hope God has a sense of humor at such moments.

Without that sense of awe, the gift of the Holy Spirit that is Fear of the Lord, it is easy to forget that Jesus is enthroned at the Right hand of God the Father. In His humility, He meets us where we are- on our level. Yet, even so He remains our God and King. We owe Him that homage and respect.

When Pilate asked, “Are you the king of the Jews?”  Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.” So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth (John 18:33b, 36-37).”

Scripture clearly identifies Jesus Christ as our king. Again in Revelation we read: “Out of His mouth shall come a sharp sword to strike the nations. He will rule them with an iron rod…. He has a name written on His cloak and on His thigh, ‘King of Kings, and Lord of Lords (Rev. 19:15-16).”

How marvelous of our Holy Mother Church to give us this Feast of Christ the King, this solemnity, to remind us of our need to submit to the Kingship of Christ Jesus. For it is only in the act of viewing ourselves rightly- seeing our insignificience against His Magnificence- and placing our trust in Him that we achieve our true destiny. Our ultimate happiness lies in the freedom to truly pray: “Lord, Thy Kingdom Come!”

 Blessing, Ad Jesum per Mariam,

MA  JMJ

The Souls of the Just are in the Hands of the Lord. . . .

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May they rest in peace. © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011

Today we celebrate the feast of All Souls Day. Like yesterday, we once again gather to rejoice in the communion of saints- celebrating the unbroken unity that is the Church Triumphant (those in Heaven), the Church Suffering (beloved souls in Purgatory), and the Church Militant (those of us on earth striving to reach our eternal beatitude). While yesterday’s solemnity was a joyous celebration of virtues of those saints who stand in perpetual adoration of the Lamb of God, today’s celebration is a more subdued supplication for our beloved siblings in Christ who- though saved- have yet to reach the eternal celestial joy of the saints. The Church teaches that Purgatory is the name given to that final stage of purification of the elect; a purification that those who die in an imperfect state of grace undergo before reaching blessed communion with the Most Holy Trinity. Today’s First Reading reflects the scriptural basis for this doctrine which was reiterated through the Church Councils of Florence and Trent (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1031).

“The souls of the just are in the Hand of God, and no torment shall touch them. They seemed, in the view of the foolish, to be dead; and their passing away was thought an affliction and their going forth from us utter destruction. But they are in peace. For if before men, indeed they be punished, yet their hope is full of immortality.  Chastened a little, they shall be greatly blessed, because God tried them and found them worthy of Himself (Wisdom 3: 1-5).”

I believe with my heart that our prayers can relieve the burden of the souls in purgatory. Yes, I believe it as a matter of faith because the Holy Church teaches it; however, I also believe it because I have personally felt its fruits.

Almost eleven years ago, I lost my Dad to multiple myeloma. I was devastated. My Dad – the kids’ Grandpa George- had been my hero, and my closest friend. I used to tell him that I felt I had an inkling of what God the Father must be like, because of his humility, and gentle goodness. Dad lived with us prior to his death, and his memories were everywhere I turned. My heart was in shreds. About three weeks after his death, it was my birthday, and I was feeling particularly low. I prayed my heart out, and begged Jesus for a sign. I remember asking very directly: “Lord, I know I’m not supposed to test you, please don’t think of this request as a test. However, I really need a sign that Dad’s O.K. I need to know he’s in Heaven. Pardon me for being specific, but could I please have a single rose- a white one, just so I know he is ok? Now I don’t want a dozen red ones, just a single white rose, would let me know he is ok. Thanks Lord.”

On this cold day in February, about a half-hour after I uttered that prayer, my doorbell rang. Astonished, I opened the front door, to find a floral delivery truck- “Flowers by GEORGE!” The delivery person was standing there with a single RED rose in a glass vase. I was thunderstruck! After I stammered something to the kind delivery man, I hastily read the card (which remains in my Bible to this day). It was from a woman named Mary, whom I had met once while touring the senior living apartment my Dad had hoped to call home had he survived the bone marrow transplant.  Thrilled as I was to have received an immediate answer to my prayer, I was confused. This was a single RED rose. I had requested a WHITE one. I immediately thanked our Lord, and pondered what this sign meant. Was Jesus telling me- He picked the sign, that I shouldn’t? What could this mean? I took it to mean- at the very least- that Dad was ok. I still continued to pray for the repose of his soul (and do to this day).

Over the years there would be an occasional white rose in my garden, and I’d question- whether it might be the rose of my request. Though deep in heart, I always knew prayers were needed.  About seven years after Dad’s death, we had just attended the All Souls’ Day Mass at St. Boniface- the very Church where we celebrated both of my parents’ funeral Masses. I was winding though the bottle-necked crowd with seven small children in tow, and counting heads to make sure all were present and accounted. Deacon Jim was deep in discussion with a fellow parishioner as my little convoy passed by, when he abruptly interrupted his conversation. He said, “Excuse me, but this lady needs this,” and proceeded to hand me the largest, most gorgeous long-stem, single WHITE rose I had ever seen. As my tears began to fall, there was a chorus of little voices at my feet- “Mommy, does this mean Grandpa is in Heaven?”  I responded that it may very well mean just that. We returned to the Church, to give thanks. Later, I brought my precious white rose to the Shrine Chapel at Holy Hill, in thanksgiving to Our Lady for her intercession.

I have pondered often the significance of my sign. Truly I KNOW Jesus answers our every prayer- not necessarily in the way we want, nor in the time-frame we want. However, He does love us deeply, and responds to our needs from His Abyss of Love. I still pray for the repose of the souls of both my parents, my father-in-law, my godson Dan, and so many other loved ones. Yet, I know they are safe, and have every confidence in the words of today’s reading, “The souls of the just are in the Hands of God, and no torment shall touch them. . . .”

 Please join me in praying for the Poor Souls, and have a Blessed All Souls’ Day- M.A.  JMJ

Eternal light will shine upon your saints, O Lord!

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My Little "Saints." © SalveMaterDei.com, 2011

Each year the kids delight in celebrating the Solemnity of All Saints. As soon as the October air begins to chill and the leaves turn color, the house begins to buzz with plans for this sacred feast. The kids research their favorite saints, and begin to scour the house for requisite costume pieces.  Old lace curtains are transformed into veils, and brocade table clothes become mantles.  The energy is palpable- everyone from toddler to teen finds joy in celebrating the essence of the solemnity. This year’s heavenly court included: Our Lady of Kibeho, Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha, St. James the Greater, St. Joseph Cupertino, Blessed Jacinta Marto, St. Elizabeth of Hungary, St. Catherine Laboure, and St. Patrick- even the young lady who helps us homeschool joined in as St. Bernadette Soubirous.

 At Holy Mass this morning, Fr. Jude reminded us that this is our Feast- the saints of the Church Triumphant- the saints of the Church Suffering, and even those of the Church Militant. We are ALL called to be saints- canonized or not- it is our eternal destiny, our call, our heart’s deepest longing. All Saints’ Day offers a unique opportunity to reflect upon the progress we have achieved. Our role models, the saints, provide a tangible goal. We see in the sanctity of their lives what our lives could, and should be. They fought the good fight, ran the ultimate race, and- with God’s Grace -persevered.  Now as Church Triumphant, these real men and women- whose eternal souls have been forever “washed clean in the blood of the Lamb,” stand ready to assist us in our struggle to achieve the same beatitude that they now  forever enjoy.

 The doctrine of the Communion of Saints is such a comfort and a blessing! In truth we form but one eternal ring- glorifying God beyond the limits of space and time. Today, as we celebrated the lives of the saints, and sought to emulate their virtues, we also focused on our beloved suffering souls in Purgatory. On the way home from Holy Mass at Holy Hill Basilica, National Shrine of Mary, the kids and I stopped at the cemetery to pay a visit to my parents, and pray for their eternal happiness. I know Grandpa George and Grandma Lorraine were in turn praying for their beloved grandkids as we knelt and said an Ave by their grave.

 In Her Wisdom, the Holy Mother Church has granted a special blessing – a plenary indulgence applicable only to the souls in purgatory for each of the eight days of the Solemnity of All Saints’ Day. The usual conditions are binding, and include: attending Holy Mass and receiving Holy Communion on the day the work is performed, sacramental confession within  eight days prior or afterward, freedom from attachment to sin, prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father (an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be suffice, but other chosen prayer is also acceptable). For this particular indulgence, a visit to a cemetery and prayer for the faithful deceased is also required. In our house we call this “The November Novena,” never mind that it is Solemnity, and only eight days- we usually begin on All Hallows Eve for a total of nine days and a partial indulgence on the extra day. Each year the kids and I look forward to it- knowing our little prayers and cemetery visits are of real assistance to suffering souls- perhaps for Grandma and Grandpa, Poppie, my nephew Dan, and other loved ones, or perhaps for forgotten souls whose graves are left unmarked and whose lives are long forgotten here on earth. The grace that this “November Novena” brings is immense.

 As this beautiful All Saints’ Day Solemnity draws to a close, and the costumes are stashed away for another year;  we begin our evening office, and a deep sense of abiding joy remains.