Belief in Truth

When one does not believe the truth, then the only solution is to pray that God may enlighten that person to be reasonable enough to accept such truth.
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Faith

We talk about faith and we always assert that we have faith. But what kind of faith is pleasing to God? Is it a faith which is conditional? Is it a faith which expects something in return? Is it a faith for the sake of having one? Is it a faith imposed on us? Is it a faith out of being a trend? Or is it a faith that never fails despite the odds and obstacles? Where is your faith then? Is it in the heart? Or in the mind?
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PLENARY INDULGENCES FOR THE POOR SOULS

Current regulations in force by Pope Benedict XVI

I On All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2) a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the Poor Souls, is granted to those who visit any parish church or public oratory and there recite one Our Father and one Credo.

II On all the days from November I though November 8 inclusive, a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the Poor Souls, is granted to those who visit a cemetery and pray even if only mentally for the departed.

 Conditions for both indulgences:

1. Only one plenary indulgence can be granted per day.

2. It is necessary to be in the state of grace, at least by completion of the work.

3. Freedom from attachment to sin, even venial sin, is necessary; otherwise the indulgence is only partial. (By this is meant attachment to a particular sin, not sin in general.)

4. Holy Communion must be received each time the indulgence is sought.

5. Prayers must he recited for the intentions of the Holy Father on each day the indulgence is sought. (No particular prayers are prescribed. One Our Father and one Hail Mary suffice, or other suitable prayers.)

6. A sacramental concession must he made within a week of completion of the prescribed work. (One confession made during the week, made with the intention of gaining all the indulgences, suffices.)

Courtesy of http://www.the-latinmass.com/id112.html

GOD's Generosity

God cannot and will never be outdone in generosity. The reason is simple. What one does not have, he cannot give. And everything that one has is from God. The air we breathe, water we drink, food we eat, clothes we wear and shelter we inhabit, all these and others that we have and can have in this world are all because of God's Divine Generosity. Would you now claim to be a generous giver just so you tithe or gave 10% of your earnings to the church? Just so you offered a hungry food to eat or your mere one peso to a beggar? Or perhaps, you sponsored a charity ball or carried out a project for the poor, or aged? Well, all these are good and done in good faith, honestly and sincerely without expecting anything in return, will surely have their merits in heaven. In other words, just go ahead and continue doing good and all for the glory of God. But we are always reminded that when we do so, we do them with humility and for the love of God. We do not carry out deeds which are meant to satisfy our ego, and personal interests. We do them with a beautiful smile and a kind heart. Amen.
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Yes and No

"how can you say no, when you do not know what a yes means"


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Trying Your Best

"You cannot say you have tried your best when you have not done anything to succeed."


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Feast of St. Michael

St.Michael and the Holy Archangels have stood ground and fought for what is right and pleasing to the Almighty God. Today, we continue to invoke their protection against all evils. We have our respective Guardian Angels to help, guide and guard us. Hence, let us always pray for them and ever be mindful of their presence wherever we may be.
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SAN LORENZO RUIZ

Lorenzo Ruiz is the first Filipino saint. He is also the first Filipino martyred for the Christian Faith. Lorenzo Ruiz was a layman, married, and had two sons and a daughter. Born in Binondo, Manila, about 1600's, he was educated in the school of the Dominicans there. He served as an altar boy and later was a helper and clerk-sacristan in the church of Binondo. He was a member of the Confraternity of the Rosary. He made his living probably as a calligrapher, one who renders documents in beautiful penmanship for private or official use. To be sure, that work denoted an accomplished and educated person, especially at a time when many an illustrious personage were far from excelling in this art. An adverse event made him leave the Philippines in 1636. When he was in his late twenties or early thirties, he became involved or was accused of being involved in a criminal case, the circumstances of which are far from clear. Whether he was involved or not, one thing was clear, he was afraid that, as a consequence of a trial or mistrial, he might be given a death sentence. Upon landing inJapan where Christians were being persecuted, he was arrested and imprisoned together with his companions. He underwent inhuman tortures and valiantly confessed his Christian Faith. Refusing to renounce his Faith, he told his executioner that he was ready to die for God and give himself for many thousands of lives if he had them. On September 27, 1637, he was hung from a gallows by his feet, his body falling into a pit. After two days of agony, he died of bleeding and suffocation. His body was cremated and the ashes thrown into the sea. He and fifteen companions, martyred in the same persecution, were beatified by Pope John Paul II inManila on February 18, 1981 and elevated to full honors of the altar by canonization on October 18, 1987 in Rome. Their feast day is on September 28th.

Source : Catholic Online -  http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=231

Blessed Are The Poor

Blessings are customarily associated with material wealth and success. The word con notes some kind or form of Divine intervention responsible for bringing in or doling out such favored gifts to somebody.

Thus, when people often utter "more blessings", the perceived meaning is that more success or money is being wished, hoped and prayed for.

When Christ declared "blessed are the poor", this is followed by a qualification - "in spirit". The obvious consequence is that "they will inherit the kingdom of heaven".
Now, having realized that blessings here refers to some sort of inheritance - does this mean that somehow or somebody has to die first before one gets the perks and benefits of such inheritance?

Remember, somebody has already died and being crucified is not a joke. Consequently, the matter of inheritance is already a reality.

And truly, the fulfillment of this declaration (note that it is not a mere promise) is now before us and unfolding as an indisputable and conclusive fact.

What is it then that we expect to inherit? What is this "kingdom of heaven"? Is it not true that one goes to heaven only upon death and who is in an absolute state of sanctified grace.

In responding we cannot really lean or rely on our own understanding. If we were to follow human ways then we are not allowing ourselves to fully receive what God will give to us even at this point in time.
God is good. God is great. Nothing is impossible and if we are with Him and He in us then who can be against us.

In other words if He wills it we can experience heaven here on earth. As to what that "heaven" is, only you will know once given the grace to discern what it is. Yes, it could be something material and tangible but it could also be a feeling of joy the world could not offer.

So you see, when we pray, we do so because we want
God to do or to give us something. We often pray for miracles when human efforts seem to be an exercise in futility. God can do and give when we invoke His help. But how do we receive it?

This is the hard part.
One has to be poor - poor in spirit. It is a situation where you need to strive to be perfect as the heavenly Father is perfect. This doesn't mean you have to be God. For one, only God can be God and no other. It means you can imitate and follow Christ. If you do and you did well as to be pleasing before God, then you can expect heaven in His time and if it will be for the salvation of your soul.

Think then of the unlimited ways to be sanctified. Carry on.
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Changing Religion is Changing Faith

The faith is believing in God. For Catholics, we believe in One God in Three Persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Other religions or beliefs do not think and feel the same way that we do. Hence, the impossibility of changing religion without changing one's faith.
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In te, Domino, Speravi !

Our Lord Jesus Christ - we pray that we may all be safe & secured; that no harm or evil will ever come upon us; that we may always be under the mantle of God's protection. We ask all these in Your Most Holy Name. Amen.

Imitate Jesus

When a sportsman wins a game or a fight, we usually would want to be associated with his success. Either we befriend him or become his fan or simply talk about his fame and fortune. We patronize the products he endorses or we buy and wear clothes with his name or photo printed on them. In other words, we feel good about him and it gives us a sense of satisfaction and happiness for that sportsman. This is understandable since we want better lives without corruption. We see that kind of life in him. He becomes our model who is worthy of being emulated - a person who exudes or exemplies influence, discipline, power, strength, patience, perseverance, intelligence, wealth, abundance, success and above all, faith. Hence, practically everyday, we may never fail to hear about him, talk about him, read about him, think about him or imitate anything about him. But come to think of it - have we done the same for Jesus?

CHURCH ACCOUNTABILITY

Clergy serves in the Name of God. They are accountable to God. What they say, think and do are subject to the Judgment of God. If they do right, they will be rewarded. If they do wrong, Divine Justice will spare none.

The process is simple and not a single soul can ever have any right to question it. It is a process which will happen. There is no ifs or buts. We know that this is a perfect system and our Faith makes sure that we are aware of and will believe in it.

WHEN PRAYERS SEEM EMPTY

We often question why things do not happen the way we want it be despite the fact that we have prayed for it. We are told that it will be - "in God's time" and "if God allows it."

Also, it has always been difficult to understand why is it that prayers seem to be a lonely little voice in the wilderness. Sometimes, one would begin to ask whether the prayer offered is like an empty can and therefore no answer is forthcoming since nothing can be found inside anyway. Even worst, we begin to doubt or question the Divine Will on our prayers.

Do not be tempted. Never question God. He is perfect and we are not. This simply means, He knows what is best for us. But, have we done our best to prepare and merit what we have been praying for? If we did our best, are we ready to receive the blessings and graces that will come to us in response to our prayers? If we are prepared and ready, are we willing to take responsibility that comes with those answers we have been longing for? If we are willing then, are we strong enough to persevere in our faith, and in our battle against any kind or form of evil or unholiness? Are we charity-centric enough to carry out God's will consistently with a prayerful attitude and doing it all for His Glory and not ours?

So. Are your prayers empty?

Beautiful Reasons for Praying the Rosary Even More Often

Father Gabriel Amorth, Chief Exorcist of the Vatican writes: One day a colleague of mine heard the devil say during an exorcism, "Every Hail Mary is like a blow on my head. If Christians knew how powerful the Rosary was, it would be my end." The secret that makes this prayer so effective is that the Rosary is  both prayer and meditation. It is addressed to the Father, to the Blessed Virgin, and to the Holy Trinity, and is a meditation centered on Christ. I write in addition to the above: Please enunciate each word of the Rosary clearly and distinctly. Do not trample on the words.  Do not speak over the leader if you are following or the respondent if you are leading the Rosary. Remember that they also are having a conversation with Mary Our Mother and it is not polite to speak when someone else is speaking. 

In the case of the public Rosary there are only two people speaking: the Leader and the respondents. Each is speaking to the Blessed Mother and listening carefully to her response within their hearts as they meditate on the scene before them in their consideration of the mystery being spoken of and interpreted and translated into their lives. Spread this powerful prayer
of exorcism, the Rosary, which contains the Our Father, the Perfect Prayer, prayed five times in the recitation of each set of the Rosary's Mysteries, backed up by the powerful prayers of Our Mother who prays with us as we pray 53 Hail Mary's. 

  
The Eternal Father described to a group of us, through a Visionary Friend of mine, what happens when we pray the Rosary, saying, "When you pray Holy Mary Mother of God, pray for us sinners now....., the Blessed Mother comes instantly to your side to pray with you. And she does not come alone. She brings angels with her. And not just one or two for she is the Queen of Angels, so choirs of angels come with her. And she and Jesus are joined at the heart and cannot be separated so she brings Jesus with her. And Jesus cannot be separated from the Trinity so He  brings the Father and the Holy Spirit with Him. And where the Holy Trinity is, all of creation is, and you are surrounded by such beauty and light as you cannot imagine in this life. 

Your Mother comes as Our Lady of Grace with her hands outstretched. Rays of light emit from her hands piercing your body, healing you and filling you with graces. This is your inheritance which was poured out from the heart of Jesus on the Cross, when the centurion pierced His Heart with the spear, into the only pure vessel ready to receive such graces at that time, Your Mother. Now as you pray the Rosary, or even just recite one Hail Mary, you receive your portion of these graces. He also said at this time, "Anyone who goes to Mary and prays the Rosary cannot be touched by Satan." Is it any wonder that anyone who prays the Rosary from the heart is so blessed and protected and powerful in their prayers for  others?

(This was sent via email. Thanks should go to the unnamed writer. As part of the apostolate of this blogsite, this is being shared. All for the Glory of God.) 

Divine Mercy Novena

Ninth Day
"Today bring to Me the Souls who have become Lukewarm,
and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. These souls wound My Heart most painfully. My soul suffered the most dreadful loathing in the Garden of Olives because of lukewarm souls. They were the reason I cried out: 'Father, take this cup away from Me, if it be Your will.' For them, the last hope of salvation is to run to My mercy."
Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

Eighth Day
"Today bring to Me the Souls who are in the prison of Purgatory,
and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents of My Blood cool down their scorching flames. All these souls are greatly loved by Me. They are making retribution to My justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all the indulgences from the treasury of My Church and offer them on their behalf. Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt to My justice."
Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

Seventh Day
Today bring to Me the Souls who especially venerate and glorify My Mercy*,
and immerse them in My mercy. These souls sorrowed most over my Passion and entered most deeply into My spirit. They are living images of My Compassionate Heart. These souls will shine with a special brightness in the next life. Not one of them will go into the fire of hell. I shall particularly defend each one of them at the hour of death.
Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy; and united to You, O Jesus, they carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their hearts, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God:

Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless mercy of His, He, Himself, will defend as His glory. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

Sixth Day
Today bring to Me the Meek and Humble Souls and the Souls of Little Children,
and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My Heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence.
Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

Fifth Day
"Today bring to Me the Souls of those who have separated themselves from My Church*,
and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. During My bitter Passion they tore at My Body and Heart, that is, My Church. As they return to unity with the Church My wounds heal and in this way they alleviate My Passion."
Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.
*Our Lord's original words here were "heretics and schismatics," since He spoke to Saint Faustina within the context of her times. As of the Second Vatican Council, Church authorities have seen fit not to use those designations in accordance with the explanation given in the Council's Decree on Ecumenism (n.3). Every pope since the Council has reaffirmed that usage. Saint Faustina herself, her heart always in harmony with the mind of the Church, most certainly would have agreed. When at one time, because of the decisions of her superiors and father confessor, she was not able to execute Our Lord's inspirations and orders, she declared: "I will follow Your will insofar as You will permit me to do so through Your representative. O my Jesus " I give priority to the voice of the Church over the voice with which You speak to me" (497). The Lord confirmed her action and praised her for it.

Divine Mercy Novena

Fourth Day
"Today bring to Me those who do not believe in God and those who do not know Me,
I was thinking also of them during My bitter Passion, and their future zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse them in the ocean of My mercy."
Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who do not believe in God and of those who as yet do not know You. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who do not believe in You, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.
*Our Lord's original words here were "the pagans." Since the pontificate of Pope John XXIII, the Church has seen fit to replace this term with clearer and more appropriate terminology.

Divine Mercy Novena

Third Day
"Today bring to Me all Devout and Faithful Souls,
and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. These souls brought me consolation on the Way of the Cross. They were a drop of consolation in the midst of an ocean of bitterness."
Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

Second Day
"Today bring to Me the Souls of Priests and Religious,
and immerse them in My unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave me strength to endure My bitter Passion. Through them as through channels My mercy flows out upon mankind."
Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service,* that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard -- upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.

Divine Mercy Novena

First Day
"Today bring to Me all mankind, especially all sinners,
and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. In this way you will console Me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges Me."
Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.

The Seventh Word:

"Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" (Luke 24:46)

The Sixth Word:

"It is finished!" (John 19:30)

The Fifth Word:

"I am thirsty." (John 19:28)

The Fourth Word:

"My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" (Mark 15:34)

The Third Word:

"Dear woman, here is your son." (John 19:26)

The Second Word:

"I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)

The First Word:

"Father,forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." (Luke 23:34)

Visita Iglesia

Visita Iglesia is a religious devotion and not a mere tradition or practice. We recall Christ's agony in the Garden of Gethsemane where He was left all alone praying and sweating with blood. Hence, when we observe Lent, people will flock to at least seven churches (as in Rome's 7 Pilgrim Churches but others would visit fourteen to represent the Via Crusis) where the Blessed Sacrament is regally enthroned and as we pray, individually or better yet, as a family, we accompany Our Lord Jesus in His moments of agony. We thanked Him for the sacrifices He has done to save us, to redeem us. It is a time to be with Christ, a time to reflect, a time for renewal.

Institution of the Eucharist

Today is Maundy Thursday. A day when Christ and His Disciples got together and celebrated the Last Supper, when bread became the Body of Christ and when wine was turned into the Blood of Christ. It was actually the first Holy Mass. This is the significance of this day.

Experiencing Christ's Sufferings

Why do we have to suffer like Christ? Can we not just claim His victory on the Cross and be happy with our lives now? Why do I have to go through all the hardships and difficulties in life? Is it not enough that I believe in God and for Him to give me what I want?

Whoa!

You ask too much. Let us go to the basics first.

When was the last time that you have gone to confessions and asked for forgiveness from God? Have you ever done your part in reconciling youself with the ways of God? Have you bribed? Were you bribed? Have you knowingly committed a sin? If so, have you made steps to be with God again.

When was the last time that you have forgiven a person? Meaning, relly forgive as in giving him a fresh start and enabling him to make up for his wrongdoings and mistakes.

When was the last time that you abandoned your duties or your work or your responsibilities? By not doing what you must, for your family or for others?

When was the last time that you have done good to another? Charity? Love? Care? Or perhaps, being as simple as you can that you may allow yourself to be like Christ who has always been a simple person? Never complicated. Never bad. Never wrong.

Experiencing Christ's sufferings is not to be mistaken as being crucified on the Cross; or sustaining thousands and thousands of wounds, lacerations, hematoma, or being pierced by a lance; or being put to trial for not having committed any crime; or being humiliated and rediculed for a crime you did not commit.

It has been said that a single wound sustained by Christ's would produce such pain which is so extremely intense that no human being can possibly endure. How much more when we are talking here of thousands and thousands of wounds.

Therefore, the message is for us, not so much to endure and feel the pain since we are incapable of doing so, but it is more a matter of offering our pains and sufferings for the forgiveness of sins including those of our own.

We should not complain. Be like Christ. We should not resist. Be like Christ. Face up to what is before us and as we go through the calvary and the agonies of pain, we must pray for Christlike victory over sins, and over all the pains and sufferings of this world.

Amen.





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Signs of the Times

Earthquakes, tsunamis, war, famine, and drought. It is a long list of woes and miseries. Could this be a warning to all that the time has come for us to repent and change our ways?

Imagine this. A woman in her 70s stricken by diabetes as shown by the discoloration in her bony ankle and possibly, other ailments for she was extremely skinny and looks sickly, gingerly walking and meeting passersby with open palm of her hands as if begging. She is ignored obviously.

Begging? Not really. She just forgot to place in her palm a couple of sweet polvoron she was selling. She really thought there were some which she was offering. Having realized that. She took a bundle and continued to walk and this time actually offering something to be bought by others. She was earning a living exposed to the elements. Obviously, she was forced to do so by circumstances.

Then came a male person, in his 20s, malnourished, with dirt and slime all over, sniffing rugby from a plastic bag. Thereafter he saw a thrown lighted cigarette which looks more like its burning filter tip already, along a dried and dirty canal, and which he took and proudly smoked it with head high like a rich man. Obviously, the substance and his dire condition have taken a toll on his sanity.

Two persons, different situations and both with no future to look forward to. But they something in common - the will to survive despite all the odds and difficulties. Most probably for them, living and surviving in the present is already an achievement.

Now. What about you? With access to the internet and certainly, having the luxury of time to spend browsing the world wide web. You, who have a future to look forward to. You, who have the means and the sanity to prosper. Yes, you?

Are you the person who gives up easily? Who doesn't know that there is a positive value know as resiliency? Who thinks that there is no longer any hopein this life? Who doesn't even know how to pray?

And for those who knows how to face life and call on God, what have you done to make this world a better place for all?






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North Star

Where and what is your North Star? The Magis have not had a difficult time finding where the Child Jesus was. The North Star led them to the manger and it was there where they honored Christ. The North Star is a "navigational tool" divinely provided for those who seek the truth and wants to find the way through life in this world. It is not only a matter of looking where it is leading you to but it is important to know what you are looking for. Pray that you may find it.
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What The Rosary Is

Going back to the basics. The Most Holy Rosary is a prayers that embodies the Life and Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ. It is also a prayer that gives us a clear picture of the Blessed Mother's role in the redemption of mankind. It is a prayer that gives specific 15 promises. it is a prayer that reaches heaven.

Faith, Trust & Love

February 11, 2011 - An enduring relationship between a husband and a wife is characterized by a love founded on faith and trust. They are ordained by God to be one, in heart and in life. Faith refers to one's relationship with the Divine Creator. It is not a mere belief but the Source of life. Trust is a relationship with the spouse. It is a covenant of transparency. On the occasion of the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, pray that the Sacrament of the Holy Matrimony and marriage as an institution should become a stronger foundation of the family, all for the Glory of God! This is what this day is all about. A day of Faith, a day of Trust and a day of Love, then, now and forever.

Life Belongs to God

God has given life and it is only He who takes it away. The point is that "life belongs to God" and no one, not even the person concerned, can take the life of any person or his own. This is basic and logical. We owe it to God who gave us air to breathe, food to eat, water to drink, clother to wear, shelter to protect ourselves from elements and this world where we all live. Our mission is to make the most of our lives and for God's honor and glory. We, as Catholics, are forbidden to kill and that is in any manner - like abortion, euthanasia, or suicide and in any form - aggression, violence, oppression or persecution. In law, if it were intended to save life or prevent the loss of life, then it is called self-defense and even then there are rules of engagement to be followed. It is not a license just because you think it is intended to save life or prevent its loss. The reason must be valid and there is an absolutely certainty of an immediate loss of life if not saved or prevented, and the means employed must be reasonable. It cannot be planned for it will be murder. It cannot be with intent for it will be homicide. It is a situation where it is primarily against your will but were compelled to do it due to justified circumstances.

The message is clear. Life is precious. When we were given life, we were created in the likeness of God and in His Own Image.

Be Brave. Fight a Good Fight of Faith.

Life is a continuous battle between good and evil. In the end, the good will prevail and come out victorious. If that is the case, why is it that it is the good people who seems to suffer more while the bad ones are enjoying what the world has to offer?

The truth is that those who are evil and those who oppress the innocent and those who have less in life are actually suffering more than those who do good. The bad ones have adversely compromised their human dignity, integrity and their soul. They remain a world where hypocrites and liars abound.

While God may be merciful, one must not anticipate it continue to do what is bad and evil. The time may already the be end when one can no longer return as the clock has stopped clicking.

There is still time to be good. Do it now.

As for all, it is a must to be vigilant always, and in doing so, be brave as the fight for our faith.

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A Blessed Candle

February 2, 2011 - Its the Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria and part of the Eucharistic Celebration is the blessing of candles. Would it because one would not want to stumble in the dark and thus a candle is being blessed? Well. It is not really a matter of merely ligthing a candle and be assured of protection from the dark. It may help, yes. But, in illuminating the path perhaps. What matters still would be your spiritual preparedness. Are you battle ready?


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Truth or Consequence?

Remembering a teenage game called "truth or consequence" brings back memories filled with funny and serious moments. But sometimes, the game may also destroy friendships or trust.

The idea of the game is that when you, from among those in a circle, are caught with the ball in your hand when the background music stops, you will then have the option to choose whether to answer the question yet to be asked, or to do what you are told, and which may be funny, weird, or outrageous.

But more often than not, the truth turns out to be a lie and the consequences, when chosen - are meant to conceal the truth.

Are you in this game - in your life?

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Heart & Mind Cleansing

Nowadays, a wellness program will recommend that one should undergo some kind of body cleansing process, such as juices or water therapy, fruit and vegetable diet, physical exercises and other related rituals. The process is intended to heal the body, flush out the toxins, re-energize the system or simply, to give life to a dull existence.

Many believe that their life will change when they undergo such fitness regimen. But once they achieve their desired goals, some will seek and thirst for admiration, recognition, and praise. They credit their newfound fame to themselves. At this point, it is not wellness but idolatry of self.

While, there is nothing wrong with a wellness program, since it takes care of the body - the temple of the Holy Spirit, it must be done in way pleasing to God.

One must strive to cleanse his heart and get rid of pride, hatred, greed, anger, envy, sloth and other sins. As for the mind, it should be decongested and one must throw out garbage like lust and gluttony.

This is spiritual cleansing.
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Once Again, Prayer Works!

If in any event that you are in a very difficult situation, and you know fully well that you are correct, or you are right, or you are just simply, on the side of truth – do not fear, do not despair, do not give up, do not give in, do not allow any opportunity for anyone to put you down, do not surrender, and most important of all, do not lose faith in God, for he will always be over you, guiding you and protecting you, as the Father in heaven. Pray unceasingly, pray for strength, and pray that you may overcome that difficult situation, whatever it may be. Prayer works!

Proof of God's Existence

Man has always shown his insatiable quest for evidence to prove that God is for real. There is actually nothing wrong with it, if it is intended for the conversion of others in order that they too would benefit from the greatness, goodness and generosity of God.

Yet there are those others who remained skeptical or simply, non-believers, and insisting that the universe was formed by a super mega explosion, they always failed to explain where it came from.

A devout faithful would not have a difficult time understanding that there is God. The everyday miracles of life alone will suffice to serve as proof of God's existence.

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A Lasting Impression

Oh yes, first impression counts. Usually, it does make a difference in how a person is to be considered for employment, friendship, or more often than not, in courtship and lifetime plans. But is it the lasting impression? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. A lot of mistakes had been committed because of such jonesses' "first impression".

The life of a devout faithful must be lived to create a lasting impression of goodness and purity. One must constantly be in a state of grace. There is much to do then. Do not long the first impression. Aim for a lasting impression.




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Unconditional Love

Is this the kind of love that you give to God in your life? Also, when you pray perhaps? Somehow, each one of us may be guilty of not having done good enough to enable us to say - "yes". In a way, our answer may be "defensively qualified" like "yes, however. . .". And when praying, do you do so without asking anything in return? That is, you would pray to merely say "thank you". Or is it "thank you Lord! And also Lord, please. . .".

Unconditional Love is not a "I scratch your back and you scratch mine" thing. It may not be perfect but at least, the loving heart should be perfect. If there is in this world where man can strive and reach perfection - he can look at his heart and he will be surprised by what he can do and accomplish.

Life will surely be sweeter.

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DO NOT Put Yourself At Risk

You will thank God if you follow His Divine Will. Defying it may come in the form of endandering yourselves either out of curiosiy, thrill or for no valid reason at all. It may cost your life or one may lose a limb, or may affect other persons. It is your duty and responsibility that you must always insure your safety and those of other people who may be affected by your acts or even omissions. Basically, do not unnecessarily and unreasonably put yourself at risk. Do not anticipate the mercy of God and do not test His goodness. We know its wrong and it is a sin.


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Prayer For Victims of Violence

It grieves our heart whenever people are killed as a result of violence. Innocent lives were lost and prayers are truly needed. It is important that we pray for the repose of the souls who passed away and for violence to cease in order that no further lives will be wasted and lost.
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Anatomy of Prayer

When praying, you do must do so with humility and with clarity. You have to make sure it is sincere and unconditional. You do it to honor and praise God. You look up to Him as an act of surrender and then you bow down as an act of submission. All these must come from the heart and done with complete trust and confidence in God's love and mercy. There should never be an iota of doubt or reservation that God hears you and will raise you up from temporal concerns.

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Becoming True Disciples

Discpleship means being called upon to become a fisher of men. That is, working for the conversion of people to Catholicism. It also entails the task of evangilization and carrying out the Divine will. Such is a responsibility which demands the best in you, and making sure that your faith is in solid and firm ground. You will need to be in a constant state of grace.

Can you be a disciple? Do you have what it takes to be one?
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The Imitation of Our Lord Jesus

Imitating Christ or committing oneself into doing what Jesus did is not a joke. It is a very sacred vow and not intended for ordinary temporal purposes or to entertain anyone. While God will not allow sufferings or difficulties which are unbearable or unsurmountable, it is wrong to anticipate His mercy. One may not know what will happen. What if it is a point of no return.



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Respect Matters. Sometimes, the Only One.

A simple text message not replied to may mean losing a deal or losing a friend. It creates in the mind of the person expecting a reply that he is being ignored or disregarded. Worst, it is deemed a sign of disrespect, arrogance or sheer lack of good breeding. Not being able to reply may have its reasons. Either a sim card was replaced with a different number, the cellphone was lost where all mobile numbers were stored, the unit ran out of charged battery, it was in a silent mode, the message was unintentionally deleted, the message was overlooked, or perhaps, the recipient is simply rude, indifferent or lacks education on texting etiquette.

Respect thus matters. There are instances when it is the only thing that matters to the person.

In the same light that we are called upon to pray everyday. God has been communicating to us constantly and yet we do not reply, reciprocate or even say a little thank you for His blessings and graces upon us.

When attending a Holy Mass, a prayer meeting or a religious ceremony, all of which are ways by which God is able to reach out to us, do we give our full attention? Do we give Him the respect He deserves?

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Prayer Power

How does one defeat the enemy?

There are many ways to defeat or overpower an enemy. It could be done by force or through peaceful means.

But there were many stories where an enemy was defeated because of Divine intervention, and history have proven that when that happens, the victory thus provide a lasting peace or beneficial impact on the people, in general.

The Open Secret? Prayers. People have implored the mercy of God. They communicated their plea to heaven. It becomes more miraculous when the situation seems hopeless, or impossible.
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Honest Work Gets Honest Reward

When one works with integrity, a person works honestly, decently and with dedication. He is worthy of emulation, a person with principles and moral values. He guards his soul against any attempt to smear it with evil. He protects himself that he may have eternal life. His consience is clear and he feeds his family with spiritually clean. These are honest rewards for an honest work. Rewards which cannot be bought or taken away.

Pray that you may have the grace to do honest work and make an honest living. All for the Glory of God.

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When Miracles Happen

It is for God, and in His time, to decide if one will receive a miracle or not.

But what is a miracle? It is a manifestation of God’s generosity and His immense and infinite power. Hence, we always say, “With God, nothing is impossible”.

Usually, a miracle is preceded by a “sign” to make a person aware that God’s Divine Hands are at work. Sometimes, it does happen at a time when a person has no longer any reason to expect for it at all. There may be instances, when it comes to a person even though he has not asked for it. It comes in many forms – spectacular and truly magnificent as in Fatima’s Miracle of the Sun where many were healed, converted, among others; or it may simply be a “blessing in disguise.”

Everyone receives a miracle everyday, and every moment should be deemed a miracle for all. The air we breathe is a miracle. The water we drink. The world where we live. The trees that grow. The eyes that could see. The ears that could hear. The voice that could sing. The life that we have. All these are miracles willed by God.

Do we say a thanksgiving prayer for the miracles that happen to us every moment? Be grateful now and thank God.

Discerning your Role

A farmer plants the seeds. Nurtures them, make them grow and harvests the produce, then bringd them to the market. The "tindera" offers them for sale, sells them and gets the payment. The buyer brings home the product bought, prepares it, and cooks it. Then it is served on the table for the family to eat, be nourished by the food in order that they may live and pursue their calling. As each of them goes to their offices, a company may be a manufacturer of clothes worn by the farmer, a light bulb used at the marketplace, shoes used by people, fertilizers for the plants, or any other things that are needed so that life and making a living will be less complicated.

Had one been remissed in his duty, will it do him any good? What about other people's lives? Maybe, for awhile there may be an impact, but one is not indispensable. There will always be another to take his place until the latter finds himself with nothing.

This is just an aspect in the cycle of human lives.

What's yours?

Continue to pray for discernment that you may follow God's will

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Blessed Virgin Mary as Mother

Every child has a mother. But only the Blessed Mother has Jesus for a child and a son. That is the most singular and perfectly exclusive privilege conferred upon the Virgin Mary, and that is, to become the Mother of Jesus.

As a mother, she took care of Christ, in fact from womb to tomb and even to resurrection. Now, she has been tasked to take care of us and this world. Through her intercession, many have been saved - in fact the whole world.

Pray the Rosary. It works.

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In Honor of Santo Nino, the Child JESUS

We are all children of our Almighty God. He is our Father who will always love and care for us. So, as His children, what then is expected of us?

Humility. We must always acknowledge God's greatness and glory. We are nothing actually. But by reason of His love, we are precious to Him. No proof is needed. Although, if only to show that immense love, we are all blessed for having Jesus Christ as Our Lord. We cannot and must not claim that we are greater than Him. Neither should even think that we can be equals with Him. That was the mistake of those who have fallen as a result. There was pride and greed. For us, we have every opportunity to be humble and always depend on the mercy and love of God.

Trust. We are on a journey. We are trekking through uncharted frontiers. The future is always uncertain and unpredictable. We can only be sure of death will come, heaven will embrace us up, hell can devour the rebellious, purgatory is a chance to be purified, and judgment will surely be upon us when the time comes. Thus, there should really be no option but to trust God. He has given His only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ who is The Way, The Truth and The Life. We only need to trust Him and in doing so, we follow Christ and the Church He has established.

Obedience. A child obeys. Because of humility and trust, a child follows and obeys. There is an absolute confidence on the part of the child to do what is being asked. The child knows that when he does, his parents will him well. God wants us to be safe, secure, protected and taken cared of.

Prayers. When one prays, that person communicates. Through a prayer, your plea is conveyed to God even if He already knows it before you ask for it. Prayer is your commitment to do good. It is a recognition of your being a human, your mortality, and of your willingness to submit yourself yo God's will.

Be like a child if you wish to follow Jesus.

Mabuhay ! Viva il Senor Santo Nino!

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Call for Sharing

How did the devotion to the Holy Rosary helped you?

There have been many true to life stories about healing and favors granted in relation with the devotion to the Holy Rosary. Among the most famous and miraculous event involving the Holy Rosary was the People Power Edsa Revolution.

While there were thousands or even millions of people which practically made Edsa a fortress of human bodies, still they could have been crushed by the wrath of war machines.

Yet, they survived and the goal of change was achieved.

By human efforts alone, the revolution would have failed. But people and the religious were praying unceasingly the Holy Rosary, they held up high the beads and the crucific of the Holy Rosary against the tanks, and there was generally an spiritual atmosphere which protected the "fortress".

There was Divine intervention.

What about you? Share your story. Evangelize. Email to santorosaryo@gmail.com


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About St. Philomena Today

In her post entitled St. Philomena : A Challenge To Modern Minds, at catholicism.org, Sister Marie Therese, M.I.C.M. concerning St. Philomena she stated that :

"She is a saint for our times. Her life and martyrdom show she is a model of chastity and zealous Faith. Her canonization and miracles defy the liberals of our age. Every pope who has been devoted to her has zealously defended the Church. For example, Pope St. Pius X, the great anti-Modernist pope of the century, said, “To discredit the present decisions and declarations concerning St. Philomena as not being permanent, stable, valid and effective, necessary for obedience, and in full-effect for all eternity, proceeds from an element that is null and void and without merit or authority.”

The popes are not alone. The Curé of Ars praises her thus: “Her virginity and generosity in embracing heroic martyrdom has rendered her so agreeable to God that He will never refuse anything that she asks for us.”

Ven. Pauline Jaricot, the foundress of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and the Living Rosary, adds her voice to the chorus of praise: “Have full confidence in this great Saint, she will obtain for you all that you ask.” (St. Philomena is the patroness of both the Living Rosary and the Society for the Propagation of the Faith.)"

Source : please check and visit http://catholicism.org/st-philomena.html

January 10th
Birthday of the Saint Philomena

Sunday after January 10th
Patronage day of Saint Philomena

May 25th
Celebration of the finding of the Holy Body of Saint Philomena

August 10th
Celebration of the Translation of the Holy Body and the martyrdom of Saint Philomena

August 11th
Liturgical feast day in honor of Saint Philomena

August 13th
Celebration of the name of Santa Filumena (Saint Philomena)

Second Sunday of August

Solemn festivities in honor of Saint Philomena

Source : http://www.philomena.org/feastdays.aAourcxsp

What Does It Take To Make You Pray

Prayer is available for free and it is unlimited. You can submit in any form and for any good reason. It is not discriminatory and it is safe, secured and you can keep it confidential. You can do it anytime, anywhere and even all alone by yourself or with others. It can be offered in any language or dialect. It can be said aloud, in silence, in writing, or sign language. They can be read or others may even pray for you. It could be short or long.

Now, what is the problem when one still finds it hard to pray?

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Do you believe in superstitions?

Superstitions are sets of human beliefs and temporal practices observed in anticipation of the fulfillment of desired results through means not founded on Catholic faith. Definitely they are different from prayers.

In supertitions, a person relies on what he perceives to be his "power" to "create" or "prevent" or "destroy" from practically nothing, Such belief is not new since the first superstitious event was the infamous Garden of Eden incident involving Eve and eventually Adam.

They relied on the forbidden fruit to lead their lives and their future. They wanted to be God. They envied God. They were greedy and ungrateful. Eventually, pride engulfed them. They lied. They have in effect allowed themselves to be in a state of disbelief.

A superstitious person is torn between his human belief in the supernatural and his faith in the Divine.

Where do you stand?

Further readings:

Accordng to the Catholic Encyclopedia (see link), there are four species of superstitions:

* improper worship of the true God (indebitus veri Dei cultus);
* idolatry;
* divination;
* vain observances, which include magic and occult arts.

The number and variety of superstitions appear from the following list of those most in vogue at different periods of history:

* astrology, the reading of the future and of man's destiny
from the stars;
* aeromancy, divinations by means of the air and winds;
* amulets, things worn as a remedy or preservative against
evils or mischief, such as diseases or witchcraft;
* chiromancy, or palmistry, divination by the lines of the hand;
* capnomancy, by the ascent or motion of smoke;
* catroptomancy, by mirrors;
* alomancy, by salt;
* cartomancy, by playing cards;
* anthropomancy, by inspection of human viscera;
* belomancy, by the shuffling of arrows (Ezekiel 21:21);
* geomancy, by points, lines or figures traced on the ground;
* hydromancy, by water;
* idolatry, the worship of idols;
* Sabianism, the worship of the sun, moon, and stars;
* Zoolatry, Anthropolatry, and Fetishism, the worship of
animals, man, and things without sense;
* Devil-worship;
* the worship of abstract notions personified, e.g. Victory,
Peace, Fame, Concord, which had temples and a priesthood
for the performance of their cult;
* necromancy, the evocation of the dead, as old as history and
perpetuated in contemporary Spiritism;
* oneiromancy, the interpretation of dreams;
* philtres, potions, or charms intended to excite love;
* omens or prognostics of future events;
* witchcraft and magic in all their ramifications;
* lucky and unlucky days, numbers, persons, things, actions;
* the evil eye, spells, incantations, ordeals, etc.

For more about this, please visit source at Catholic
Encyclopedia of New Advent with URL http://
www.newadvent.org/cathen/14339a.htm

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Storming Heaven with Prayers

"Storming" heaven with prayers would connote a certain plea which is urgent in nature. In a positive sense, it means that we are sincerely and deeply asking God for His mercy to grant our petitions and requests as soon as possible.

Of course, we know that only God can judge whether "storming" heaven with prayers would be pleasing to Him or not. It is not for us to pass judgment how He accepts the use of the word "storming" - which has been usually associated with disasters and war.

The bottomline here is that - whether heaven was stormed with prayers or not - prayers are always heard and answered. As to how and in what manner or form, it depends on God's will and His time. It may or may not exactly be in way we want it to be but it is certain that what is being given will be for one's own good and salvation.

It is however more fitting and necessary that there should be a universally accepted and appropriate expression which considers the highest respect, glory and honor due to God.

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Baptism of the Lord

"And when Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, 'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased"' (Mt 3:16-17).

"Jesus' public life begins with his baptism by John in the Jordan. John preaches 'a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins' (Lk 3:3)" (CCC, 535).

Source : First Mystery of Light - http://www.vatican.va/special/rosary/documents/popup/popup01_lum_en.html


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When Do You Say - "Thank You Lord"

Many have prayed and many have asked as to when their prayers will be answered. We know too well that the things we asked for are given if it is for the good of our soul. Othewise, when our petitions are not granted, either it is a blessing in disguise or there is a good reason for it.

If you do get what you want, do you thank God for it? How?

But should you always receive something in order to show your appreciation? Isn't it better to thank God every moment of your life?

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Devotion to Sacred Heart

It is the First Friday of 2011. a day of devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. It has been promised by Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, as follows:

In the excess of the mercy of My Heart, I promise that My all-powerful love will grant to all those who will receive Holy Communion on the first Friday for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance. They will not die in My displeasure, nor without receiving the Sacraments, and My Heart will be their secure refuge in that last hour.

1) I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.

2) I will establish peace in their families.

3) I will comfort them in all their afflictions.

4) I will be their secure refuge during life and above all in death.

5) I will abundantly bless all their undertakings.

6) Sinners shall find in My heart the source and the infinite ocean of mercy.

7) Tepid souls shall become fervent.

8) Fervent souls shall rise to great perfection.

9) I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored.

10) I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.

11) Those who propagate this devotion shall have their names eternally written in My Heart.

12) In the excess of the mercy of My Heart, I promise that My all-powerful love will grant to all those who will receive Holy Communion on the first Friday for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance. They will not die in My displeasure, nor without receiving the Sacraments, and My Heart will be their secure refuge in that last hour.

Source: http://www.santorosario.net/english/greatpromise.htm
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The Sorrowful Mysteries

How often do you pray the Sorrowful Mysteries? Or perhaps . . . when you want to pray the Holy Rosary, how often do you choose the Sorrowful Mysteries each time you decide to do so? And when you pray the Sorrowful Mysteries, do you feel some kind of discomfort, or do you feel a bit uneasy? These and other questions may elicit varied answers and reactions. Let it be admitted that there is some degree of reluctance for some people whenever the Sorrowful Mysteries are prayed. But there are those who have learned to embrace such redeeming mysteries. They find them beneficial in making themselves realize that the human sufferings of this world are nothing compared to what Christ has gone through for all of us.

We often hear the sacrifices of parents for the sake of their children. We also learn about the heroic acts of people to save others. We feel sorrow for those who are sick and those who are affected by natural disasters. We condemn injustices and sympathize with the victims. We offer help, share in the burden and give what we can afford or do in alleviating the plight of the oppressed, downtrodden, tyrannized over, trampled upon or those who are depressed.

Noble. Exemplary. Truly God-centered human deeds.

In doing so, we imitate Christ during His trying moments as illustrated in the Sorrowful Mysteries. Thereafter, we feel blessed after going through what seemed to be impossible.

Thus, when we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries, we celebrate Christ' victory over what seemed to be hopeless and impossible. He is God, yes. But remember, He was a human being when Christ underwent the Passion.

The First Miracle

"On the third day there was a marriage at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; Jesus also was invited to the marriage, with his disciples. When the wine failed, the mother of Jesus said to him, 'They have no wine.' And Jesus said to her, 'O woman, what have you to do with me? My hour has not yet come.' His mother said to the servants, 'Do whatever he tells you"' (Jn 2:1-5).

 

"On the threshold of his public life Jesus performs his first sign ­at his mother's request - during a wedding feast: The Church attaches great importance to Jesus' presence at the wedding at Cana. She sees in it the confirmation of the goodness of marriage and the proclamation that thenceforth marriage will be an efficacious sign of Christ's presence" (CCC, 1613).

Source :   http://www.vatican.va/special/rosary/documents/popup/popup03_lum_en.html

Filial Relationship with Mary

Mary can be said to continue to say to each individual the words which she spoke at Cana in Galilee: "Do whatever he tells you." For he, Christ, is the one Mediator between God and mankind; he is "the way, and the truth, and the life" (Jn. 14:6); it is he whom the Father has given to the world, so that man "should not perish but have eternal life" (Jn. 3:16). The Virgin of Nazareth became the first "witness" of this saving love of the Father, and she also wishes to remain its humble handmaid always and everywhere. For every Christian, for every human being, Mary is the one who first "believed," and precisely with her faith as Spouse and Mother she wishes to act upon all those who entrust themselves to her as her children. And it is well known that the more her children persevere and progress in this attitude, the nearer Mary leads them to the "unsearchable riches of Christ"(Eph. 3:8). And to the same degree they recognize more and more clearly the dignity of man in all its fullness and the definitive meaning of his vocation, for "Christ...fully reveals man to man himself."

Excerpts from Redemptoris Mater by His Holiness Pope John Paul II

The Choice

People all around the world are back to their respective post-Christmas lives - many of whom are still uncertain of themselves and their future, saddled with poverty and insecurities, marred by bickerings and backstabbing, muddled by greed and corruption, or perhaps made even more difficult by violence, injustices, faultfinders and self-righteous hypocrites. All of which are man-made against man.

But nature has its own share of wrath and woes for man. Some were tormented by floods, storms, earthquakes, drought, tornadoes, tsunamis, sinkholes, and other natural calamities.

And course, the consequences and effects of man's indifference and abuses, some of which synching with nature, are also beleaguering and threatening man's existence or dignity - famine, hunger, AIDS and other incurable diseases, abortion, human trafficking, drugs, perversion, promiscuity, organ smuggling, pornography, prostitution, consumerism and war.

Equally alarming is the increasing number of the unemployed and homeless, as well as rising cost of living, dwindling natural resources, climate change, human rights violations, expulsion of indigenous people, violence against women and children, lawlessness and deteriorating peace and order situation.

As if such dreaded state of this world is not enough, people are caged in a world where privacy has become history and could be hunted down, listened at and worst, controlled - thus, depriving man of his free will. The GPS on handheld devices and cars, CCTV cameras on the streets and buildings, internet connections, smart and similar cards with magnetic tape or computer chip (credit, discount, point, membership, club, etc.), social networking sites, emails, digital landlines, and other high tech devices, among others, have something in common - they get, gather, analyze and categorize information. As for what purpose, the answer is best left to one's imagination since it could be anything.

What is then the meaning of all these?

This world is not safe. But man is given a choice. Either to be controlled by this world or be in a state of grace - unceasingly.
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Proclaim Your Fiat

God’s Will be done.

When are you saying “Yes” to this? Or have you already done so? Our Blessed Mother did not hesitate to do so, and from that moment when the “Annunciation” took placed, she obliged and proclaimed “Be it done to me according to Thy Word”.

Her own style of saying “Yes”, made a big difference. It was a complete and absolute submission to what God wants. It was more than a vow or a promise. It was in effect a consecration of herself to the Divine Will. Hence, her entire life had been dedicated to the service of God. She became the Mother of Christ, and eventually, the Queen of the Heaven and the Earth.

If one where to read between the lines, and look deeply into what happened – perhaps everyone would do the same, now at this moment.

Think about it? Will you be ready to proclaim your fiat to the Lord. Now and onwards?

Christ loves the Childhood

When the brightness of a new star had led three wise men to worship Jesus, they did not see him ruling over demons, not raising the dead, not restoring sight to the blind or mobility to the lame or speech to the dumb, nor in any action of divine power. They saw him, rather, as a Child - silent, at rest, placed in the care of his Mother - in a situation where there appeared no indication of power.

From this lowliness, however, a great miracle was presented. Consequently, the mere sight of that Sacred Infancy to which God the Son of God had adapted himself was bringing to their eyes a preaching that would be imparted to their ears. What the sound of his voice was not yet presenting, the activity of sight was teaching them. For the entire victory of the Savior, the one that overcame the devil and the world, began in humility and ended in humility. Its appointed time began under persecution and ended under persecution. Neither the endurance of suffering was lacking to the child, nor the gentleness of a child to the one who would suffer. For, the Only-Begotten Son of God undertook by a single inclination of his majesty both the will to be born as a human being and the ability to be killed by human beings.

Almighty God, therefore, made our extremely bad situation good" through his unique lowliness and "destroyed death" along with the author "of death." He did not refuse anything that his persecutors brought down on him. In obedience to the Father, he bore the cruelties of violent men with the meekest docility. How humble we ought to be, then, how patient, we who, when we meet with any distress, never undergo anything we do not deserve! "Who will boast that they have a pure heart or that they are clean from sin?" (Prov. 20,9). Blessed John says, "If we say we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us." (1Jn. 1, 8)

Who will be found so free from guilt that they have not in themselves anything for justice to condemn or mercy to forgive? Consequently, dearly beloved, the whole learning of Christian wisdom consists not in abundance of words, not in cleverness at disputing, not in desire for praise and glory, but in a true and willing humility. This is what the Lord Jesus Christ chose and taught from within the womb of his Mother right up to his torment on the cross - by enduring everything with fortitude. When the disciples, as the Evangelist says, arguing among themselves as to "which one of them would be greater in the kingdom of heaven, [Jesus] called a little child and stood him in their midst and said: 'Amen, I say to you, unless you change yourselves and become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever, therefore, humble themselves like this child will be the greater in the kingdom of heaven."

Christ loves the Childhood that he first took up in both soul and body. Christ loves childhood, the teacher of humility, the rule of innocence, the image of gentleness. Christ loves childhood, to which he directs the characters of older people, to which he brings back old age. Those whom he would raise up to an eternal kingdom he disposes to follow his own example."

St. Leo the Great, Sermon 37, Epiphany, 2 – 3.

Source : (http://www.vatican.va/spirit/documents/spirit_20000804_leone-magno_en.html)

Veni Creator Spiritus

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest,
and in our hearts take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heav'nly aid,
To fill the hearts which Thou hast made.

O Comforter, to Thee we cry,
Thou heav'nly gift of God most high,
Thou Fount of life, and Fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above.

O Finger of the hand divine,
the sevenfold gifts of grace are thine;
true promise of the Father thou,
who dost the tongue with power endow.

Thy light to every sense impart,
and shed thy love in every heart;
thine own unfailing might supply
to strengthen our infirmity.

Drive far away our ghostly foe,
and thine abiding peace bestow;
if thou be our preventing Guide,
no evil can our steps betide.

Praise we the Father and the Son
and Holy Spirit with them One;
and may the Son on us bestow
the gifts that from the Spirit flow.

(Plenary Indulgence granted whenever prayed on January 1)

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