Dixi

Thanksgiving

2011-12-04T12:08:00.001-06:00

Two weekends now... my Mom and I went to go pray outside the local Planned Parenthood.
It was like any other Saturday morning we go to pray there. Two pro-life sidewalk counselors, a few prayer warriors, a man on the corner with a graphic sign, and another on another corner with a banner sign that reads "vote for life."

It's hard to counsel at this particular Planned Parenthood. Usually the girls pull in the driveway, and the counselors can only shout something to the women as they walk from their cars into the clinic. Planned Parenthood also blasts music to drown out the counselor's voice. After a few hours, or minutes, depending on what the women go in for, they come out, and simply drive away. Right passed us.

On Novemebr 19th, I wittnessed a "turn around". A car pulled out of the driveway and pulled over to a group of us pro-lifers. There were two young women in the car with tears in their eyes. The passenger got out of the car, came out to us and hugged each of us. She said she "just couldn't do it." She said she had been in the Planned Parenthood for a while, and had time to think about what she was doing. This will be her third child, and she might give the baby up for adoption.

Please pray for this woman and her baby, and never stop praying for life!

Michael Voris Event!

2011-04-08T12:43:00.000-05:00

Latest daily Vortex Video

Michael Voris presents: "The Majesty of the Catholic Faith"

Saturday, April 30, 2011

Pheasant Run Hotel

4051 East Main Street – St. Charles, IL

{Free parking is available just outside the Royal Ballroom’s glass-windowed veranda.}

Tickets are $15.00/person or $30.00/family

Seating is limited. Please send your check, payable to:

St. Michael’s Media

1214 S. Tenth Street – Saint Charles, IL 60174

Phone: 630-584-5389

S C H E D U L E:

Registration – check in at 9:00 am

~ First talk 9:15 – 10:30

~ Second talk 10:45 – 12:00 noon

* Lunch break 12:00 – 1:00 pm

~ First afternoon talk 1:00 – 2:15 pm

~ Second afternoon talk 2:30 – 3:30 pm

Holy Sacrifice of the Mass 3:30 – 4:30 pm

{Permission for Mass is pending, with the Diocese.}

*Lunch is not provided. Three restaurants are located in the hotel.

Event website: http://majestyofthefaith.blogspot.com/

Michael Voris Bio:

At 47, president and founder Michael Voris is among the generations

of Catholics which simply didn’t receive thorough and accurate

catechesis. His searching blue eyes reveal an intense desire to

change that. Trained in theology at the doctrinally-sound St.

Joseph's Seminary in New York, he has been known to put a

damper on cocktail parties with a discussion on the consequences

of sin. Kind and charming, he is likewise unyielding in

his mission of notifying others of the existence of both God and

Satan, and that salvation comes through Jesus Christ and His

Bride, the Holy Catholic Church.

After several years in seminary he discerned that his vocation

lay elsewhere, and spent years working as a CBS affiliate anchor

in various markets and won multiple Emmys for his work in

broadcast news production. The success he enjoyed in his career

did not mollify a growing understanding of the darkness

engulfing the secular media today. His experiences there provided

him with not only the technical knowledge to produce

excellent television programming, but a profound grasp of the

need to produce programs that leave the viewer improved spiritually

rather than just entertained.

On May 8, 2006 a new state-of-the-art digital television studio

was dedicated to the archangel who Scripture promises will lead

the victorious battle against Satan at the end of time (Rev

12:07). Located in an outwardly humble building a half mile

north of the city of Detroit, it is the production center of what is

hoped will be many high quality Catholic programs to be distributed

nationwide. The twofold purpose of these programs is

educating a generation of Catholics largely ignorant of Church

teaching and saving souls from eternal damnation.

Voris is the host of St. Michael's Media's first show, aptly called

The One True Faith. To date, 65 episodes have been completed and

are airing in various markets in the United States.

Tribute to a Hero

2011-04-05T16:55:00.001-05:00

...On Saturday we went to Chicago for a dinner in honor of the great hero/founder of the Pro-Life Action League Mr. Joseph Scheidler! Before the actual dinner we joined the "Crusaders" of St. John Cantius (Br. Chad!) and marched over to the hotel with huge yellow "LIFE" balloons. The plan was to give Mr. Scheidler a "hollywood style" welcome (thus the sunglasses and prom dresses), not only because Mr. Scheidler is so awesome, but also because earlier in the week we got word that the pro-choicers were going to protest the dinner from outside. Because of security, we didn't get to be too close to the actual entrance to the hotel, so we rolled out the "red carpet" a little bit a away from the hotel's entrance. After he walked across the carpet, Mr. Scheidler stayed outside on the streets with his pro-life stop sign and stood with the Crusaders across the street from the "pro-choicers." I went inside with my Mom, Constance, and some of our Crusader friends who were going to the dinner, so we unfortunately missed that action. The rest of the Crusaders went on to walk around town singing pro-life chants during the dinner.

So, here's the jolly, happy as a hobbit video:

In his delightful way, Mr. Scheidler often says pro-life people are the happiest people. We are happy becuase we know we are doing the Lord's work. The pro-choicers are so full of hate that during the dinner they slashed the tires of the cars of the pro-lifers in the hotel parking lot. (The cars had pro-life bumbper stickers.) You can read a post in which they admit this here.

Mr. Scheidler has dedicated himself to the pro-life movement. For over 30 years he has been out on the streets protesting and showing America the gruesome reality of abortion. He's sacrificed jobs, was brought in front of the Supereme court by NARAL, sacrificed his home, he was even black balled by pro-life organizations for showing the truth. As mentioned countless times throughout Saturday evening, the pro-life movement would not be as strong as it is today if it was not for Mr. Scheidler. He
is truly the "Father of the Pro-life Movement" and my hero! It was an honor to be at his tribute dinner!

Pretiola!

2011-03-23T10:48:00.001-05:00

Back when there were more than only 2 manditory fasting days in the Church, ancients would make pretzels because they only contain yeast, water, brown SUGAR and flour.

Monks used to give young children pretzels as a "little reward" or "pretiola!

Yesterday we made Lenten Pretzels.

"We abstain from flesh, meat, and from all things that come from flesh, as milk, cheese and eggs." - Pope St. Gregory

So, here's the recipie I used:

Grease two cookie sheets and sprinkle with salt.

In a large bowl, desolve a packet of yeast in 2 tablespoons of warm water.

Add 1/3 Cup of warm water and 1/3 cup of brown sugar.

Kneed in 4-5 cups of flour until the mizture forms a smooth ball. (You may need to add more water ;-))

Kneed for 10 minutes.

Tiwst as desired.

Heat oven to 450. Fill large skillet with water adding 1 t-spoon of baking soda for each cup of water.

Bring to simmer.

Dip twisted pretzels in skillet for a bout 30 seconds. Transfer to cookie sheet. Sprinkle with salt and bake for 8 minutes.

Tada!

St. Joseph

2011-03-23T10:06:00.001-05:00

Just because I neglected to do a blog post on St. Joseph's day, dosen't mean I didn't celebrate him!

Because we went all out.

My little brother made this for my Dad and brother

On Sunday we actaully went up to a Church north of us for their annual "St. Joseph Altar."

The proceeds from the event went to seminarians of the Institute of Christ the King.

The Italian food was great, espcially the firied zuchhini! There were at least 10 tables of food. Spaghetti and Bread crumbs, (which represent saw dust) Fish, symol of Christ/multiplication of loves and fishes (as the altar also symbolizes God's generosity).

I also got a fava bean. There is a "legend" that if you keep it in your pocket you will never go without fortune/food. To me, it's a good reminder to call on St. Joseph!

Special prayer to St. Joseph.

O blessed Saint Joseph, tenderhearted father, faithful guardian of Jesus, chaste spouse of the Mother of God, we pray and beseech thee to offer to God the Father His divine Son, bathed in blood on the Cross for sinners, and through the thrice-holy Name of Jesus, obtain for us from the Eternal Father the favor we implore. (Name your request.)

Appease the Divine anger so justly inflamed by our crimes, beg of Jesus mercy for thy children. Amid the splendors of eternity, forget not the sorrows of those who suffer, those who pray, those who weep; stay the Almighty arm which smites us, that by thy prayers and those of thy most holy spouse, the Heart of Jesus may be moved to pity and to pardon. Amen. St. Joseph, pray for us.

He is a "universal" patron, which means he may intercede on behalf of any intention.

St. Joseph, pray for us!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T11:42:00.001-05:00

Sancti Patricii, ora pro nobis.

"The ambassadors or Misionaries of Christ are of two classes. There are some who have been entrusted witha small tract of the Gentile world. They have to sow the divine seed there, and it yielded friut more or less according to the disposition of the people that received it. There are others who mission is like a rapid conquest that subdues a whole nation, and brings it to the Gospel. St. Patrick belongs to this second class, and in him we recognize one of the most successful instruments of God's Mercy to Mankind.

When is it that Ireland received the Faith? When Britain was almost wholly buried in Paganism, when the race of the Franks had not yet heard the name of the True God, when Germany had not heard of Christ's coming to Earth, when Northern Europe was deeply slumbered in infidelity; before these nations had awakened to the Gospel, Ireland had converted. The Faith, brought to the Isle by her glorious Apostle, took deep root and flourished. Her Saints are scarcely to be numbered, and went about doing good in almost every country of Europe. Her children gave, and are still giving to other countries.

Let us honour the admirable Apostle, chosen by God to sow the seed of His word in this privileged land."

~ The Liturgical Year, March 17th, by Dom Prosper Gueranger

Ireland's Constitution Preamble:

"In the Name of the Most Holy Trinity, from Whom is all authority and to Whom, as our final end, all actions both of men and States must be referred, We, the people of Éire, humbly acknowledging all our obligations to our Divine Lord, Jesus Christ, who sustained our fathers through centuries of trial, (...) do hereby adopt, enact, and give to ourselves this Constitution."^[36]

Can you tell I'm Irish? Not as much we'd all like to be on this day, but I do have roots! I'm also very proud of Ireland for being one of the only abortion-free countries in the world. We need to pray the snakes stay out of that beloved country!

Go mbeannai Dia duit! ~ May God Bless you!

Forty Days

2011-03-11T00:27:00.000-06:00

Temptation of Christ by James Tissot

Psalm 19

Unto the end. A psalm for David.

May the Lord hear thee in the day of tribulation: may the name of the God of Jacob protect thee.

May he send thee help from the sanctuary: and defend thee out of Sion.

May he be mindful of all thy sacrifices: and may thy whole burnt offering be made fat.

May he give thee according to thy own heart; and confirm all thy counsels.

We will rejoice in thy salvation; and in the name of our God we shall be exalted. The Lord fulfill all thy petitions: now have I known that the Lord hath saved his anointed. He will hear him from his holy heaven: the salvation of his right hand is in powers. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will call upon the name of the Lord our God. They are bound, and have fallen; but we are risen, and are set upright. O Lord, save the king: and hear us in the day that we shall call upon thee.

This Psalm is used in the Church to prepare us for the Spiritual Temptations we may recieve during Lent. Lent is a time for reparation for our sins, pleasing God, and cleansing our souls.

Trees

2010-11-03T21:31:00.000-05:00

by Joyce Kilmer

I think that I shall never see

A poem as lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest

Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

2010-10-05T15:02:00.001-05:00

Well hello blog! You're looking good - the backgroud that is. (I have my sister to thank for that). My sister also manages my music. Thus, a few months ago you might have noticed the "If I Only Had A Brain" song. Yeah, thanks Constance!

I hope everyone had a very enjoyable summer. I know I did. However, I'm still not sure what the ultimate highlight is.

My family participated in the Pro-Life Action League's Annual Face the Truth Tour all seven days. (Mostly mom and the kids, I was absent for only two days :() I would have to say as an overall it was a very successful tour. I hardly wittnessed any negativity; NOT ONE person got out of their car to "yell" at me. On the contrary, we got many positive honks, "God Bless You!", and a few thumbs up now and then.

A few weeks after the actual week tour, we participated in the Rockford solo-day tour. Let's just say that Rockford has a much more zealous and vocal pro-abortion presence and it deserves it's own little paragraph. A few years ago, the very first time my family took part in this stop, my little brother got some kind of metal thrown at him. This time it was my turn! I GOT A GATORADE bottle thrown at me! Let it be known: when pro-abortion people insult me, it only makes me happy!

The Truth suffers but never dies. ~ St. Theresa of Avila

Another "FUN!" thing we did was go BLUEBERRY PICKING! I had been wanting to ever since we did the first time, about a decade ago. So, last minute us girls drove 3 hours to go bluberry picking out of state! (The directions esimated two hours, but I think it took at least four just to get there) It was worth it though, in my opinion! We picked for about an hour or two and came back home with about thirteen pounds of blueberries, silly pictures, a good hilarious video of mom (that I'm not aloud to show anyone) and some great memories.

Take a Stand for Free Speech!

2010-08-02T18:22:00.002-05:00

A pro-life man, Joe Holland, was unjustly arrested for praying outside a Chicago Planned Parenthood Abortion facility on July 3, 2010. He is accused of violating the city's new "Bubble Zone" Ordinance.

According to the Thomas Moore Society, legally representing the pro-lifer:

"The "Bubble Zone" ordinance prohibits approaching within eight feet of a person, without consent, "for the purpose of passing a leaflet or handbill to, displaying a sign to, or engaging in oral protest, education, or counseling." According to witnesses and available video, Holland was engaged solely in prayer activity and not in leafletting, picketing or "sidewalk counseling." Video of Holland's alleged disorderly conduct can be viewed here"

Please sign this petition to Mayor Daley to DROP THE CHARGES against Joe Holland!

www.ArrestedforPraying.com

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-30T21:53:00.001-05:00

To celebrate Memorial day I really recommend this movie! It's an oldie but a goodie!

Fortunately all 15 parts are on YouTube!

United in faith...

2010-05-13T22:55:00.015-05:00

So, where do I begin?

My little sister had a her tonsils and adenoids removed yesterday. We share a room. So, while she recovers, she tries not to laugh too loudly (and hard - for it hurts her to laugh) at old Dick Van Dyke episodes. She also keeps me up to date with all the latest news on blogs she visits.

But, with tonight's news (and the thought of Mr. GQ crying), we are crying our eyes out! My nose is so "stuffed up" I can't sleep! :)

On Monday we said our last good-byes to a very dear friend of ours.

Let's start at the very beginning!...A very good place to start!

My very first first picture ever taken of 'JoJo" (left) and my sister Constance
- A Church Picnic - Summer 2008 -

We met this special young lady about two summers ago. We were at one of the summer picnics of the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago. She was one of the "Dazzo" family. There they were eating their favorite: Panera Bread. After we ate I started playing catch, with a softball, with the oldest girl, "Jo Jo" - while some of her seven siblings played soccer with my mere three. Yes, that is my first memory of my dear friend who I will respectively call "JoJo Dazzo" for this post.

Jo Jo is two years older than my sister or, the same age as me.

Anyway, as we talked with Mrs. Lady Modesty and her daughter, that very day, we discovered my sister and Jo Jowere both interested in the religious life. Particularly...with the Sister Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus Christ Sovereign Priest (take a breath!) - whose Motherhouse is located in Italy.

Constance (left) and JoJo (right) 5/10/10

Lady Modesty is probably the only non-procrastinator I know and helped the girls plan a trip all the way to Italy in May of '09 to visit the Convent. (Last year!)

Before we knew it there was the "Going Away Party" and then the day they left.

Both girls enjoyed their week visit immensely; it was defiantly a life changing experience for them as it seems they came home with a deeper love of Christ and this particular Order of nuns.

Jo Jo was hoping to be accepted into the Sister Adorers' Order in the fall of 2010.

But, happy news came just a month ago; she would be joining the Sister Adorers' newest Convent in
St. Louis this (past - yesterday) May 12, 2010!

Fortunately, we had time to say our good-byes at a party last Monday. My family had planned to visit JoJo at the end of May while we were visiting family in the Southern Illinois/St. Louis area. Therefore, we were able to hold back some tears. {But not all ;-)}

But tonight. Great news for JoJo, but sad news for us! Tonight, we read the latest news on Mrs. Lady Modesty's blog.., Jo Jowill be leaving for Italy very soon to start her formation. We will not be seeing her as we planned. We will not be seeing her for a long time...

My sister has already made a beautiful tribute to her dearest friend here...

Jo Jo read this to us from a holy card the last time we chatted on the phone:

~Pray for me, as I will for thee, so that we may merrily meet in Heaven.~

See that purple thing? Its my cast. I broke my elbow (just a hair line fracture) while on a bike ride with another good friend of mine a week ago - I only have to wear it for two more weeks! Jo Jo signed my cast. Any guesses at her real name? :) And, I'm going to have to keep that stinky old cast now!

God willing, we will meet again on this earth... but being so far away... prayer will be the only thing uniting us for now.

I will never forget you, JoJo!

Please keep her - and her family - in your prayers!

Tighten Up!

2010-04-15T21:47:00.014-05:00

Happy Eastertide! I did not intend to abstain from blogging for Lent but I guess I did anyway! :)

I have not been blogging all together because of many little things. But, I did get a job! It's the best job I could wish for right now! I'm the chief executive assistant, only assistant, at a little Catholic Book store near my house. I work about once or twice a week. It's awesome!

Anyway, I get really nice customers and there are also those who pass by the shop and give us "the look" or say "A Catholic store...no thanks!" But, funner than that, we get those people who come in to debate. My employers are always "faithful to the magisterium" and when someone comes in the Holy Ghost sure inspires them! So, my first encounter...

...was an older woman. She came in through the coffee store next door (!) and asked "is this Episcopal?" I said, "No, we're a Catholic store." Then, that's when it started! "Oh, you know, some people need to loosen up. Have you heard about the Episcopals? They now have a woman bishop,and she's a lesbian!" (how progressive!) I of course went into the "if Jesus wanted woman priests, why wouldn't He have made the most perfect women of all, His Immaculate Mother, the first woman priest?" But, she just ignored it and said something about the church being run by men. All I could say would be, "well, the Church has lasted this long...I don't think we're going to start changing now!" But, when you get down to it, I wish I told her that some people just need to "tighten" up. While the Pope is infaliible, there are those in the Church and schools who are confusing people!

Let's look at Fr. Pfleger on the southside of Chicago. We see this man using the his holy priesthood to preach hate.

Hold on tight, I'm shifting gears here!

So, what do we faithful do when the Heirarchy of the Catholic church in America refuse to do anything about this man and then have the audacity to reward him?!

Yes, Cardinal George/the Archdiocese of Chicago presented Fr. Pfleger the “racial justice lifetime achievement award”

Well, here's my suggestion. (With help from my wonderful mother) Let's pray for Cardinal Francis George to live up to his obligations. Of course, prayer without works is dead, so let's write to him and beg him to admonish the sinner, invoke the Church's Laws to deny pro-abortion politicians the Holy Sacrament, Canon 915. To instruct the ignorant is a Corporal work of mercy and all of us have the duty to correct the clergy when the go asstry says St. Thomas Aquinas in his Summa Theologica part 2 qeustion 33.

Also, the Archdiocese is conducting a survey that you may take part in here.

God Bless!

March for Life 2010!

2010-02-05T09:56:00.010-06:00

How do you make 350,000 people disappear? Have them March for Life!

What is the March?

Late in October 1973, grassroots prolife leaders became concerned that January 22, 1974, might come and go without properly memorializing the Supreme Court's infamous abortion decisions and without petitioning Congress for redress.

No established right-to-life organization was prepared to undertake the planning, financial and operational responsibilities for a high impact prolife March on the U.S. Capitol. But, grassroots prolifers wanted to march! About thirty prolife veterans resolved themselves into a committee and began making plans for the first March for Life.

On January 22, 1974, the first March for Life was held on the West Steps of the Capitol.

And it has been taking place every year while getting bigger every year! Nowadays, we march from the National Mall up Constitution Ave. to the Supreme Court. But, that being said, the March still gets less than little media attention.

So, even if the media did cover it, I'm sure you would want to hear of my first hand experience anyway. This year I was so fortunate to go to the March with my sister by way of three buses from SJC Church in Chicago and some very energetic teens - and Canons. (Yes, our bus was dubbed the "boring bus") A very SAINTLY Brother orchestrated the entire trip and we are so grateful to him for welcoming us into his group!

Again, the actual march. Brother C gave the group a nice spiel about screaming. So, I think our group was the loudest there. As we walked we tried to do the "We love babies yes we do, We love babies how about you?!" chant with the other people. As we finally stopped along the march route, a Franciscan priest who was near a "Catholic University" sign seemed to join us.

Even though I've been to DC before, I had no idea where we were most of the time. There were people everywhere. Signs everywhere. We were packed together like sardines.

Then, the actual march started. The long banner passed. Then the "Silent No More" women with their powerful "I regret my abortion" signs.

Our family had made a "Free the ND 88" sign for us two girls to carry during the March. With all the people surrounding us and a lack of coridination skills, we gave up carrying it during the March. But, when we finally made it to the Supreme Court building, we pulled it out. And guess what University just happened to pass as we had it out? Yep, ND! Perfect! Another man actually took our picture and told us his wife is one of the 88. He thinks Fr. Jenkins will drop the charges but is not sure why he has not already.

So, we arrived at the Supreme Court steps and chanted for a while. The police blocked off both sidewalks on either side of the street and would not let us stand along the fences. So, we tried to stand off to the side. Once again, Br. Chad lead us in some pro-life chants and some Traditional Catholic songs. St. John Cantius has a magnificent choir, by the way, so it was beautiful!

Oh, and we saw some friends while we were there. Another highlight of our trip! ;-)

Our group did not leave until the March ended. (Which means the last of the Marchers passed the Supreme Court)

After dinner we went to do some touring. This is where the coolest story comes in.

I've been in contact with a fellow blogger, Little Mary for a while. We never really met so it was a rather awkward friendship.

So, while we were at the Lincoln Memorial, I happened to see this girl who looked really familiar. (I had seen her picture around) It was Little Mary! We both let out a screech in the monument. We never planned on meeting; it was truly an act of Providence!

Overall, the March is always an uplifting experience. Marching with thousands of people who share your most sacred views. People who are willing to defend life.

There is always the hope that "Roe vs. Wade may be overturned by next year." Some say that "there might not have to be a next year." Even if that is the case, I do not think the March should end. We should never forget all those who have been killed, hurt by abortion nor the joy that every life brings!

The Three Kings Were Late Too...

2010-01-04T20:56:00.005-06:00

Happy Eleventh Day of Christmas! It's still the Christmas season, thank goodness! It seems like we just put up our tree yesterday but in reality, we put it up a month ago already! I hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas and have a wonderful New Year! Hey! This is my first post of 2010!

The picture was taken in Aurora, Illinois, where on Lehnertz Ave., the whole block displays the Christmas Story. The Nativity is on the end of the block. The people have been doing this for 50 something years and my dad has childhood memories of going there. Hopefully the tradition will last as our secular society becomes more hostile towards Christmas!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

2009-12-06T19:49:00.002-06:00

My favorite miracle of St. Nicholas (which God performed through him) from my Mom's book of saints:

"On one visitation he stayed in the house of a man into whom
Satan seemed to have entered; for when meat failed for his table he supplied it with the flesh of little children whom he stole and murdered in order to serve as meat to the travelers who were his guests. It was this
horrible repast, disguised with his best skill, that this wicked man
dared to set before the Bishop and his companions. No sooner had the man of God set his eyes upon the sumptuous table and upon the 'meat' prepared for him, that he understood the horrible fraud. He charged the host with this abominable crime, and the man, trembling confessed his sin. Then, St. Nicholas led the way to the place were the remains where the remains of the other victims had been hidden, To the horror of all, they found them salted down in a tub. Clothed with the majesty of a Bishop of God, and endowed with the power which the Almighty One gives to His Saints, no sooner had St. Nicholas made over them the sign of the cross, than the three little children were restored to life, and then given back to their Mother."

I hope everyone has/had a blessed day!

St. Nicholas, Patron Saint of children, pray for us!

A Tag

2009-12-06T19:19:00.004-06:00

I never really get tagged or do tags but I thought this might be fun! Thanks Kathleen!

1- Have you been asked out? No I haven't - and that’s ok. :)

2 - Where was your default picture taken? What is my profile pic? It’s me. It was taken on the National Mall – that’s the Washington Monument in the background.

3 - What's your middle name? Anne (“with an “e”!)

4 - Your current relationship status? “Waiting for my knight in shining armor!” (Kathleen’s)

5 - What's the first thing you do when you wake up from a nap? Comb my hair so it doesn’t look like I was napping ;-)

6 - What is your current mood? I'm fine, thank you.

7 - What color shirt are you wearing? Navy Blue

8 - Missing something? nope

9 - Current Favorite Quote? “Being stupid is dumb.” – Fr. Pakwa

10 - If you could go back in time and change something what would be? I don’t know. God has a plan for everything….I don’t want to screw anything up!

11 - If you must be an animal for one day, what would you be? Must? Maybe a bird.

12 - Ever had a near death experience? Never!

13 - Something you do a lot? Homework!

14 - The song stuck in your head? So Sweet - Grace Ellen

15 - Least favorite household chore? Hard to say…vacuuming the stairs maybe (not that I do it often)

16 - Name someone with the same birthday as you. – My Aunt Peg

17 - When was the last time you cried? A Guisseppi Moscati movie (I usually don’t admit that I cry in movies)

18. - Have you ever sung in front of a large audience? Yeah, so, it’s been a while since then tho ;-)

19 - If you could have one super power what would it be? Running really fast.

20 - What's the first thing you notice about the opposite gender? Faces

21 - What do you usually order from Starbucks? Mocha GRANDE

22 - What's your biggest secret? Like I’d really tell you?

23- What's your favorite color? Deep pink, rose

24 - Do you still watch kiddie shows or tv shows? Not lately.

25 - What's on your walls? darkish pink/purple paint. Sacred Heart and St. Margaret Mary, a beautiful cruicifix and L Innoconce...

26 - What are you? Me?

27 - Do you speak any other language? I study Ecclesiastical Latin… so not really

28 - What's your favorite smell? fire

29 - Describe your life in one word! prosaic

30 - Have you ever kissed in the rain? Noooooo

31 - What are you thinking about right now? Submitting my history test to Seton!

32 - What should you be doing? Smiling!

33 - Who was the last person that made you upset/angry? I can’t remember

34 - How often do you talk to God? A lot. But, I'd rather listen.

35 - Do you like working in the yard? Yes I do!

36 - If you could have any last name in the world, what would you want? Umm…

37 - What is your natural hair color? blond/brown (I never color my hair, btw)

38 - Do you have many friends? “Heavenly Friends” (My brother says) and you!

39 - Who is your role-model? Our Lord, His Mother, and His Angels and His Saints...

40 - Do you like your life? Yep!

I tag:
Little Mary

Rosary Girl

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T18:12:00.002-06:00

Psalm 100 Invitation to Praise God

Acclaim Yahweh, all the earth,
serve Yahweh gladly,
come into his presence with songs of joy!

Know that he, Yahweh, is God,
he made us and we belong to him,
we are his people, the flock that he pastures.

Walk through his porticos giving thanks,
enter his courts praising him,
give thanks to him, bless his name!

Yes, Yahweh is good,
his love is everlasting,
his faithfulness endures from age to age.

Hey! Check it out! I’m actually posting early instead of posting late! I was reading over the Psalter (Book of Psalms) for Religion last week and I found this one which was short and sweet and had “use me for a Thanksgiving post” all over it. Thus, there it is and Hope you all have a good one!

Our plans are as follows; hopefully we’ll get to Church but then we’ll be going to my Uncle’s house (Dad’s brother) who dosen’t live too far away but far away enough that we don’t see them much. Anyway, it should be fun. Might post pictures…if I have time…and if there are any good ones of me ;-) Highly doubt it ;-)

So, I just finished baking Turkey Shaped sugar cookies and CRANBERRY SAUCE. Great fun! I flipped on the “secular” radio station and listened to some Christmas music -and ok and a little country. I don’t know what it is but I love baking with music on. So, I listened, sang and baked (dare I say danced?) all at once and my family can’t stand it! Patty came in to help, which she did really nicely, but kept trying to sing religious songs over me. The nerve. :-)

Well, have a blessed Thanksgiving, everyone! God Bless America – and those who defend our great nation – Thank YOU!

Dear Congressman Kennedy,

2009-11-18T18:26:00.001-06:00

“The fact that I disagree with the hierarchy on some issues does not make me any less of a Catholic.” (Congressman Patrick Kennedy)

Since our recent correspondence has been rather public, I hope you don’t mind if I share a few reflections about your practice of the faith in this public forum. I usually wouldn’t do that – that is speak about someone’s faith in a public setting – but in our well-documented exchange of letters about health care and abortion, it has emerged as an issue. I also share these words publicly with the thought that they might be instructive to other Catholics, including those in prominent positions of leadership.

For the moment I’d like to set aside the discussion of health care reform, as important and relevant as it is, and focus on one statement contained in your letter of October 29, 2009, in which you write, “The fact that I disagree with the hierarchy on some issues does not make me any less of a Catholic.” That sentence certainly caught my attention and deserves a public response, lest it go unchallenged and lead others to believe it’s true. And it raises an important question: What does it mean to be a Catholic?

“The fact that I disagree with the hierarchy on some issues does not make me any less of a Catholic.” Well, in fact, Congressman, in a way it does. Although I wouldn’t choose those particular words, when someone rejects the teachings of the Church, especially on a grave matter, a life-and-death issue like abortion, it certainly does diminish their ecclesial communion, their unity with the Church. This principle is based on the Sacred Scripture and Tradition of the Church and is made more explicit in recent documents.

For example, the “Code of Canon Law” says, “Lay persons are bound by an obligation and possess the right to acquire a knowledge of Christian doctrine adapted to their capacity and condition so that they can live in accord with that doctrine.” (Canon 229, #1)

The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” says this: “Mindful of Christ’s words to his apostles, ‘He who hears you, hears me,’ the faithful receive with docility the teaching and directives that their pastors give them in different forms.” (#87)

Or consider this statement of the Church: “It would be a mistake to confuse the proper autonomy exercised by Catholics in political life with the claim of a principle that prescinds from the moral and social teaching of the Church.” (Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, 2002)

There’s lots of canonical and theological verbiage there, Congressman, but what it means is that if you don’t accept the teachings of the Church your communion with the Church is flawed, or in your own words, makes you “less of a Catholic.”

But let’s get down to a more practical question; let’s approach it this way: What does it mean, really, to be a Catholic? After all, being a Catholic has to mean something, right?

Well, in simple terms – and here I refer only to those more visible, structural elements of Church membership – being a Catholic means that you’re part of a faith community that possesses a clearly defined authority and doctrine, obligations and expectations. It means that you believe and accept the teachings of the Church, especially on essential matters of faith and morals; that you belong to a local Catholic community, a parish; that you attend Mass on Sundays and receive the sacraments regularly; that you support the Church, personally, publicly, spiritually and financially.

Congressman, I’m not sure whether or not you fulfill the basic requirements of being a Catholic, so let me ask: Do you accept the teachings of the Church on essential matters of faith and morals, including our stance on abortion? Do you belong to a local Catholic community, a parish? Do you attend Mass on Sundays and receive the sacraments regularly? Do you support the Church, personally, publicly, spiritually and financially?

In your letter you say that you “embrace your faith.” Terrific. But if you don’t fulfill the basic requirements of membership, what is it exactly that makes you a Catholic? Your baptism as an infant? Your family ties? Your cultural heritage?

Your letter also says that your faith “acknowledges the existence of an imperfect humanity.” Absolutely true. But in confronting your rejection of the Church’s teaching, we’re not dealing just with “an imperfect humanity” – as we do when we wrestle with sins such as anger, pride, greed, impurity or dishonesty. We all struggle with those things, and often fail.

Your rejection of the Church’s teaching on abortion falls into a different category – it’s a deliberate and obstinate act of the will; a conscious decision that you’ve re-affirmed on many occasions. Sorry, you can’t chalk it up to an “imperfect humanity.” Your position is unacceptable to the Church and scandalous to many of our members. It absolutely diminishes your communion with the Church.

Congressman Kennedy, I write these words not to embarrass you or to judge the state of your conscience or soul. That’s ultimately between you and God. But your description of your relationship with the Church is now a matter of public record, and it needs to be challenged. I invite you, as your bishop and brother in Christ, to enter into a sincere process of discernment, conversion and repentance. It’s not too late for you to repair your relationship with the Church, redeem your public image, and emerge as an authentic “profile in courage,” especially by defending the sanctity of human life for all people, including unborn children. And if I can ever be of assistance as you travel the road of faith, I would be honored and happy to do so.

Sincerely yours,

Thomas J. Tobin

Bishop of Providence

--------------

Bravo, Your Excellency!

40 Days for Life

2009-11-08T11:18:00.006-06:00

Last week we participated in the 40 Days for Life campaign in Chicago...

About 15 pro-abort college aged students were there when we arrived but left a little bit before us.

Our friend took this video and I put some clips together too in the second video:

All Saints Day!

2009-11-01T17:31:00.006-06:00

"What does it take to become a saint?............

-St. John Vianney - giving clues to the other children regarding who he is dressed as-

-St. Joan of Arc helping St. Denis give clues (St. Denis won the contest - winning a rosary blessed by the Holy Father)

(St. Denis was an early Archbishop, beheaded in Paris in 258AD. After the beheading he picked up his head and walked 2 miles preaching a sermon. The place where he stopped and laid is head is now a Cathedral.)

...Will it." - St. Thomas Aquinas

Blessed Feast Day, everyone!

Re: Pro-Lifer's First Ammendment Rights Violated

2009-10-28T11:25:00.002-05:00

Update!

You may remember my post about the unjust arrest we witnessed at Planned Parenthood in Aurora. Our pro-life friend, Randy,was arrested at Planned Parenthood in March for trying to evangelize to one of the clinic workers from on public property. If you don't remember you can read the post here.

Anyway, the case has been dismissed. So, "they got the City to drop disorderly conduct charges against a peaceful picketer of Planned Parenthood!"

Happy Birthday!

2009-10-18T19:37:00.003-05:00

Dear Dixi,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Love ,

Your "freaking annoying" little sister .

Right Here!

2009-10-03T21:50:00.004-05:00

This is quite an oldie but a goodie. Conservative Jason Mattera goes undercover at an ObamaCare rally. It's both funny and sad at the same time. People are so misinformed!

----

Hopefully I'll be doing a "real" post next week!

Our Lady of Sorrows

2009-09-15T14:15:00.004-05:00

Prayer to the Sorrowful Mother

Most holy Mother of Sorrows, by that soul-piercing martyrdom thou didst undergo at the foot of the Cross during the three hours' agony of Jesus, deign to assist me also, who am the child of thy Sorrows, in my agony, so that by thine intercession I may be found worthy to pass from my deathbed to thy blessed society in Paradise.

V. From a sudden and unprovided death,
R. Deliver me, O Lord.
V. From the snares of the devil,
R. Deliver me, O Lord.
V. From everlasting death,
R. Deliver me, O Lord.

Let us pray.
O God, Who for the salvation of mankind hast made for us in the most bitter death of Thy Son both an example and a refuge; grant, we beseech Thee, that we may be found worthy to obtain the fruit of His great love in our final peril at the hour of death, and to be made partakers of our Redeemer's glory. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Post!

2009-09-15T14:00:00.001-05:00

Twas the last annual pro-life night at Kiddie Land. Sniff sniff...but us kiddies had fun while it lasted! Nice pictures, eh?

The day after Labor day I started another year of high school! Woot! At the beginning of almost every the year I find myself really excited about my new books, organizing and schedueling but weeks later or minutes later I find myself not following my own scheduel....

Day Two of school and guess where I am?! The fair, of course! I was obligated to go becuase my talented little violin virtuoso brother was in a "Fiddle Contest." The song on "My Playlist" thing is the beautiful song he played and guess what?! He came in 3rd place! Not bad for his first contest! Congrats, Jacob! Then, after he performed he won the "fire truck red" music stand they were raffling off. Lucky!....A loto ticket for his birthday next week dosen't sound like a bad idea right now. Oh, and I decided to post a picture of our adorable pet bunny who died a month or two ago. Almost every year the "Easter Bunny" leaves a bunny for my family. This bunny obviously didn't last very long. We don't know how or why it died. Dad said he fed it in the morning and that evning he found the poor thing dead in its cage- the rest of us were conveniently out of town that day. His name was "Paul Harvey." Paul, the year of St. Paul and Harvey, the movie. RIP, Paul!

Have You Forgotten?

2009-09-11T08:23:00.001-05:00

"it's getting Crowdered in here."

2009-08-20T23:20:00.004-05:00

I've been meaning to post one of these Steven Crowder YouTube's for a while and found this one to be somewhat relevant to the Health Care battle that's going on. Anyway, he's a pretty funny guy and he uploads a new video on YouTube just about every Thursday! Some videos are better than others so check 'em out!

Wowza!

2009-08-01T15:25:00.002-05:00

Realizing it's already August...I'm back!....sorta!

Well, July came and gone but it was packed with fun. The way Summer is supposed to be! If only it slowed down just a little bit....

The highlight of our summer is and was the annual "Face the Truth Tour" with the Pro-life Action League. Mostly good reactions this year. People seemed to be very happy to see us this year though there were some counter protesters one day but they only invigorate us. ;-) Here are a few pictures:

The Kennedy Overpass

Slackers!...Nope! They were great and enjoyed it!Ooo...that's small....

That same weekend we went to Louisville, Kentucky for the Eternal Life Conference sponsored by the Cardinal Mindszenty Foundation. It was very enjoyable as Archbishop Burke was one of the key-note speakers. We had a pleasant walk around Louisville too.

Can you guess who Louisville is named after? Louis XVI (....and Marie Antoinette hehe)

We attended a High Mass at St. Martin of Tours Parish which was awesome. It had the first-class relics (skeletons) of Sts. Bonosa (Virgin and Martyr) and Magnus (Roman Centurion, Martyr) from 200 AD. Unfortunately, I lack pictures and can't seem to find much about them.

Then, on Thursday, my very excellent mother drove us up to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse. Wisconsin is beautiful and so is the Shrine!

Enjoy your summer!~

Happy 4th!

2009-07-04T10:19:00.001-05:00

in Corde Regis

2009-06-18T21:15:00.008-05:00

Today, Friday June 19, 2009 is the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus!

Traditional Consecration of the Human Race to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Most sweet Jesus, Redeemer of the human race, look down upon us humbly prostrate before Thy altar. We are Thine, and Thine we wish to be; but to be more surely united with Thee, behold each one of us freely consecrates himself today to Thy most Sacred Heart. Many indeed have never known Thee; many too, despising Thy precepts, have rejected Thee. Have mercy on them all, most merciful Jesus, and draw them to Thy Sacred Heart. Be Thou King, O Lord, not only of the faithful who have never forsaken Thee, but also of the prodigal children who have abandoned Thee; grant that they may quickly return to their Father's house lest they die of wretchedness and hunger. Be Thou King of those who are deceived by erroneous opinions, or whom discord keeps aloof, and call them back to the harbor of truth and unity of faith, so that soon there may be but one flock and one Shepherd. Be Thou King of all those who are still involved in the darkness of idolatry or of Islamism, and refuse not to to draw them all into the light and kingdom of God. Turn Thine eyes of mercy towards the children of that race, once Thy chosen people: of old they called down upon themselves the Blood of the Savior; may It now descend upon them, a laver of redemption and of life. Grant, O Lord, to Thy Church assurance of freedom and immunity from harm; give peace and order to all nations, and make the earth resound from pole to pole with one cry: "Praise be to the Divine Heart that wrought our salvation; to It be glory and honor for ever." Amen.
Sacred Heart of Jesus, Thy Kingdom come!

Please see the following link for many more beautiful prayers to the Sacred Heart

http://www.catholictradition.org/Two-Hearts/sacred-heart.htm

[HT: Patricia]

Killer Tiller

2009-06-09T18:59:00.002-05:00

Pro-Life Action League Condmned the shooting and also posted this entertaing story :

Joe Scheidler has a long history with George Tiller, going back to the 1980s. He once shared a long cab ride with Tiller when they both showed up late at the New Orleans airport for a National Abortion Federaration (NAF) meeting.
Not realizing that Scheidler was a pro-life activist, Tiller told him about the utility of ultrasound technology for performing late-term abortions—the subject of a talk he was giving at the NAF meeting—and invited him to visit his Wichita, Kansas clinic. Once the NAF meeting began, Tiller realized who Scheidler was and refused to show the footage of how he was using ultrasound in abortions until Scheidler left the room.
Scheidler later took Tiller up on his invitation and visited Tiller's abortuary in Wichita—with cameras and reporters from the local media. No abortions were performed that day.

Ann Coulter said it best though:

As long as we're deciding who does and doesn't have an "absolute right to be
born," who's to say late-term abortionists have an "absolute right" to live?I
wouldn't kill an abortionist myself, but I wouldn't want to impose my moral
values on others. No one is for shooting abortionists. But how will
criminalizing men making difficult, often tragic, decisions be an effective
means of achieving the goal of reducing the shootings of abortionists? Following
the moral precepts of liberals, I believe the correct position is: If you don't believe in shooting abortionists, then don't shoot
one.

Hello!

2009-06-09T18:09:00.006-05:00

For all of those who regularly read my blog, I apologize for not posting in a while. I can't believe it's already June, the month of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus!

Last month was a busy month. (news flash!) Some highlights! (Besides the Notre Dame controversy):

We attended a rally with Americans for Life.

Jill Stanek, "the Worst Person in the World"

Mr. Scheidler also spoke

Then, the day after that, we made a pilgrimage up to Holy Hill near Milwaukee, Wisconsin with some of the Institute of Christ the King Apostalates. Canon Talarico gave a dynamic homily, you can read it here.

Video of the Week

2009-05-24T21:28:00.001-05:00

Notre Dame Scandal

2009-05-17T22:44:00.016-05:00

"The fort is betrayed even of them that should have defended it." - St. John Fisher

After my mother saw the holy pro-life Fr. Westlin (yes, a Catholic priest!) get arrested at Notre Dame Friday - on a video from Jill Stanek's website- my (cool!) mother wanted to drive to Notre Dame as soon as possible. Thus, we arrived there on Saturday afternoon.

Outside the main entrance to the campus stood about 50-100 Pro-Lifers. There were at least 15 of us on each corner.

The Pro-Life plane was flying above us all day Sat. & Sunday.The "Truth Trucks" were out in full force too! Awesome drivers!

"A nation that kills it's own children is a nation WITHOUT HOPE" - Pope John Paul II

"Our tax $ funding abortions world wide - Mexico City Policy"

Prayer warriors! I took this picture while I was kneeling on the corner holding a Malachi sign with my sister. :)We decided to spend the night rather then driving back and forth from IL to South Bend. Anyway, we went to a rally with Dr. Keyes shortly after he was released from jail Sat. night. Mr. Randall Terry and Dr. Monica Miller also spoke and we saw Jill Stanek.

We ended our day with Eucharistic adoration with Bishop D'Arcy back on Notre Dame's campus.
Sunday- We found Fr.Pavone and attended the ND Response (on Campus) Outdoor Mass.

Walking back from Mass we wittnessed two arrests, one, the lady in white. While being escorted the second person, a man, said "Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!"

The Pro-Life plane hovering over Notre Dame Grads!

Unfortunatly we didn't get the chance to protest with the Pro-Life Action League instead we stayed at the Main gate (Angela and Notre Dame Dr.) for most of the day.

Sunday night we went to a another gathering with Fr. Corapi and Dr. Keyes.
Here is some of the video I took:

There may have been other speakers but we had to get home. It was a great ending to a busy week!

Jill Stanek has great posts on the protests on her website too!

May Crowning/Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T18:36:00.007-05:00

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary,
pray for us! Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our
death. Sweet Heart of Mary, be my salvation! Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for
us! ~Aspiration to Mary By St. Alphonsus Liguori
-------------
Happy Mother's Day to all our "Earthly Mothers"...especially my Mother! I love you!

Video of the Week

2009-05-10T17:25:00.002-05:00

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=5000003n

Video of the Week

2009-05-03T19:52:00.001-05:00

Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest Meets with Holy Father

2009-05-01T20:05:00.002-05:00

At a Wednesday audience in early April, Monsignor Wach presented Reverend
Mother Mary of the Love of God of the Adorers of the
Royal Heart to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. The other Sisters Adorers of
the Royal Heart were also present. Engaging the Reverend Mother in conversation
for several minutes, the Holy Father graciously granted the Apostolic Blessing
upon our young and ever-growing community of Sisters, as well as upon all
members of the Institute and the faithful of its apostolates.
See the pictures here.

Video of the Week

2009-04-26T20:01:00.001-05:00

Miss California

2009-04-25T16:53:00.007-05:00

I'm not really into polls but, according to the following AT&T/Yahoo News Poll, Miss California has a lot of supporters!

Q. Carrie Prejean caused a stir on the Miss USA stage when she said marriage should only be between a man and a woman. Judge Perez Hilton and others in the pageant slammed the response, which may have cost her the crown. On the talk-show circuit Prejan has stood by her response and garnered praise from opponents of same-sex marriage. What do you think? Does Prejean deserve criticism or praise for her response?

She should be criticized. That sort of prejudice should never be tolerated.
11%
She should be praised for expressing her opinion.
87%
Not sure/No opinion.
2%

17295 votes
Vote here

Video of the Week

2009-04-18T16:53:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday Pope Benedict XVI!

2009-04-16T12:39:00.004-05:00

Last year my family and I went to DC during the Papal visit. Here is the video my sister made with some of our pictures:

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T16:21:00.001-05:00

Holy Week Pictures

2009-04-10T20:48:00.009-05:00

Holy Thursday

Altar of Repose

The Stripping of the Altar

Good Friday

Hopefully we'll go to the Holy Saturday service tonight!

WWII Army Chaplin

2009-04-10T19:33:00.003-05:00

From The Windsor Star/Fr. Z's blog:

He was a soldier to the end. His threadbare army tunic hung on the wall, and his room was filled with religious icons, rosaries and holy pictures. And when you spoke to him, his words were about the men he knew on the battlefields of France when he rigged up a makeshift altar on the hood of his jeep and said mass for them. The photos from the Second World War show these anxious men kneeling, their heads bowed, silent in the muddy fields just hours before they were sent into battle. And when age finally wore him down -- long after the war and years of serving parishes all over the London diocese including Windsor, Woodslee and Kingsville -- this old priest told me it wouldn't stop him from saying mass in his bed at the nursing home. It would never stop him from being a priest. And there was no way he would ever lose his faith in his religion or people. I'm speaking about an old friend, Rev. Mike Dalton, who passed away Monday afternoon at Sacred Heart Nursing Home in Courtland, Ont. He was 106, a month shy of his 107th birthday. This son of a Goderich farmer is the most decorated padre who ever served in the Canadian Army. He marched at the front lines with his fellow soldiers, often carrying their weapons when they tired of battle. Besides the Military Cross for bravery, Father Dalton was the first Catholic priest to receive the Member of the British Empire. The day King George VI pinned the decoration on his tunic at Buckingham Palace, he dug deep into his pockets and handed the monarch a Catholic religious medal. When I met Father Dalton in the mid-1990s, this legendary padre with the Essex Scottish, who landed at Normandy in 1944, complained of sitting in a wheelchair. His legs had given out on him. He prayed for God to give him back his strength, so he could stand up again and say mass. TWINKLE IN HIS EYES
Deep down, he knew better. He told me so. The day I met him, Father Dalton wore the Roman collar, and had a twinkle in those slate-grey eyes and a wit and a humour that bubbled out in the stories he spun for me. He loved to talk. He loved people. He loved life. He loved God. He loved being a soldier. He loved being a priest. If there was anything he didn't like, it was losing those fathers and sons to war. He had sensed their inner fears. It didn't matter if the orders were to stay clear of the front lines -- he listened instead to his own heart, and drove his jeep to the brink of battle. And he would sit there in the open jeep -- its windshield festooned with flowers -- and hear the laboured, disturbed confessions of terrified soldiers. Or sometimes he would join a soldier on a road to a battle and try to ease their woes and lift their spirits.
Somehow Father Dalton believed he was invincible. He said he feared nothing. He figured he had a purpose, a reason to be. He felt lucky. He felt destined and blessed for some higher purpose. How else, he asked, do you explain how twice his truck was hit with shrapnel, and men died all around him? "I didn't have a scratch. I couldn't even get a cold," he said.
And sometimes he was so lost in the reverie of saying mass on the hood of his jeep that he would suddenly turn to give a blessing, "and there was no one there ... I was all alone. The soldiers had jumped for cover, and shrapnel was flying everywhere. I hadn't heard a thing."
Rev. Matthew George, a longtime friend of Father Dalton, in hearing of his death, said the biggest regret of this priest's life was discovering too late the botched Dieppe invasion. "He had been at a chaplain's meeting and when he found out, he wanted to be put ashore, but they wouldn't let him. "He cared about those men -- and never forgot them," said George.
It reminded me of what Dalton told me years ago when I asked why he joined the army. He said that when he served at St. Alphonsus in downtown Windsor, he realized those same kids who had made their First Communion in that church were now running off to war.
"I had to go with them," he said.
Now with his passing, I'm speculating the old padre is catching up to them, once again.

[HT: Patricia]

We Remember Terri

2009-03-30T21:15:00.002-05:00

From www.TerrisFight.org:

Four years ago today Terri Schiavo died. By the order of Judge George W. Greer, Terri died a slow barbaric death by starvation and dehydration over a period of almost two weeks. We have been posting stories of the events that occurred on each of those days not only in respect for Terri's memory, but a reminder that in this moment countless people are suffering slow, agonizing deaths in hospice, nursing homes, and hospitals in America and around the world.

Abortion/Breast Cancer Link

2009-03-24T11:59:00.001-05:00

My mom just sent this e-mail out and Jill Stanek posted it on her website.

As I walked into Jewel today, I was approached by a women soliciting donations for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. I took a brochure and when leaving spoke to her about how this company, along with the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, denies the link between abortion and breast cancer. In addition to that, Komen gives monies directly to Planned Parenthood. I explained in a simple way, how abortion causes breast cancer: When a women has her monthly cycle, her breasts fill with a cancer causing toxin (estrogen). When she becomes pregnant, her cycle stops for the 9-month period. That in itself has always been an indisputable key factor to lowering breast cancer. The earlier a woman completes a full-term pregnancy, the better, and the more children, the better. Breastfeeding also helps stave off breast cancer.
But in addition, when a pregnancy is suddenly aborted, breasts that were preparing to nourish a baby are left with more undifferentiated, i.e., cancer-vulnerable cells, than before she was pregnant. The fact is, abortion can increase a woman's risk factor up to 260%!

As I was explaining this to the ill-informed volunteer, a woman and a man separately walked up with donations. I started explaining the ABC risk to them when the Avon rep rudely told me to leave. The man kept his money and walked out with me and thanked me!I realized I should complain to the store manager, so I did. The lady at the counter thanked me for the info and called the manager. I told them if the Avon campaigner was not removed, I was going home to get my 6-ft. picture of an aborted baby and coming back!Well, the manager said, he didn't think that was necessary. Still, I left for my sign, but when I got back to the store, the Avon rep was gone, praise God!

Madonna of the Rock

2009-03-22T20:45:00.002-05:00

As the Holy Family was fleeing Herod, they happened to stumble upon a cave belonging to a thief and his family. The robber and his wife had an infant son the same age as Jesus. Sadly, the baby had leprosy. The Blessed Mother took pit on the poor child and his mother. In gratitude for the shelter and food the robber's family had provided, She, through Jesus, performed a miracle.

Our Lady told the mother to place her son in the bath water that had been used to wash the Christ Child. As soon as the robbers son was bathed in the water, his skin was completely restored and renewed.

Many years passed, the two boys grew to manhood. The cured boy grew into the trade of his father and became a thief. One fateful and terrible day the two men met again, this time not in a cave, but on a hill. The leprous baby boy was now the thief who hung on the cross at the right side of Jesus and said, "Lord, remember me when Thou dost enter into Thy Kingdom". Jesus' Mother's kind deed of long ago had won the thief the grace of faith and repentance.

[H/T:Patricia] Seton Press Homeschool

Pro-Lifer's First Amendment Rights Violated

2009-03-14T16:04:00.004-05:00

Update: Thomas More Society Promises Vigorous Defense of Peaceful Protestor

Peaceful picketer, Randy M., was arrested Saturday morning at the Planned Parenthood mega-abortion facility in Aurora, Illinois, based on the bogus charge by a Planned Parenthood employee that Randy was engaged in "disorderly conduct."Mind you that Randy was on the public sidewalk, over 50 feet from Planned Parenthood's mega-abortion facility, peacefully preaching to the workers who were entering the building.Thomas More Society is currently suing the City of Aurora in Federal Court in Chicago and this violation of Randy's First Amendment rights may be added to the suit. In any event, TMS attorneys will defend Randy vigorously - and will fight this frivolous charge as far as necessary to secure justice for him and pro-life advocates like him.

Here is my Mom's perspective:

Thank you so much for your prayers and concern! Maybe you can tell in the video, I was not clear, and still am not, clear on what the charges are/were for Randy's arrest. Randy told me to call for help. (which I did, running and crying hysterically to my car) After an hour of holding Randy in the police car, which they moved to the Planned Parenthood parking lot sanctuary, where we are never allowed to go, then frisked him and took him and transferred him to a paddy wagon and took him to the station. (Dolores did a great job videotaping and asking why Randy was being arrested!) She is lucky they didn't confiscate her camera like a cop threatened to at the last rally! - That cop told us it was against an ESE dropping law and that he'd arrest her!

Anyway, Dolores and me followed the paddy wagon and after consulting Ann Scheidler at Pro-life Action and Tom Brechja sp? of St. Thomas More Law, I posted bail for Randy, $75.00.

So when I called the Bail desk and asked officer Jenkins what the charges were, she said she could not tell me but that Randy would when he got out.
Randy was not allowed to make a phone call either!

Randy came out and said he was 'Happy to be deemed worthy by God to suffer for Him' in the next breath, he said, not that he had suffered any great pains.' Humble Randy!!!

Eric showed up at the station and did a little interview and took Randy back to the abortion mill where Sylvia was holding his sign for him!
(I had a prior commitment) I hope they had a round of applause for him.

Randy, still not clear of what the charges are/were, said that he was sighting Bible quotes about judgment to the employees, and abortionist from the sidewalk, behind the newly planted bushes at the mill as they arrived in the morning. Yes, he told then that they will be judged! Is this illegal?

The cops said that they got a call from Planned Parenthood that Randy scared one of the employees!!

Randy, our hero, who braves not only the winters cold, summers heat, but neighbors constantly harassing him, cussing, yelling, getting out to fight with him, throwing things, people putting Planned Parenthood stickers put on his car and the police never do anything for him.

Tom Brecha (sp?) of St. Thomas More Law will be representing Randy. If you can help financially at all to defend Randy, I know Tom could use your help. We have been in Tom's office when he generously allowed us pro-lifers to have lunch there during a summer 'Face the Truth Tour'. Tom Brecha is also a very humble attorney with a simple office.

Thanks again for all of your prayers ~

PLEASE CHECK IT OUT!!!
THE BEST NEWS OF THE DAY - THERE WAS A SAVE!!!!!!!!!!! PRAISE GOD!!!!!

Christ Our Hope, Post 100

2009-03-08T15:50:00.005-05:00

Obama lifted restrictions on federal funding of Embryonic Stem Cell Research today. Here is a great video of Alan Keyes.

Sarah Palin smears her lipstick, nominates pro-abort

2009-03-08T15:26:00.004-05:00

Juneau, AK (LifeNews.com) -- Sarah Palin fired up pro-life advocates during the presidential campaign and has a consistent pro-life record as the governor of Alaska. However, she is earning a black mark from some pro-life advocates who are upset she placed a former Planned Parenthood board member on the state Supreme Court. Palin, on Wednesday, named Anchorage Superior Court Judge Morgan Christen as the second woman to serve on the state's highest court. Christen's application made no mention of the fact that she is a former board member of Planned Parenthood and served the pro-abortion group in the mid 1990s. nowing that information, Jim Minnery, the director of the Alaska Family Council, a pro-life group, asked Palin officials to inform her and ask her not to name Christen to the court. Minnery says he is not upset with Palin and says the fault lies with the Judicial Council for sending her no candidates that his group could really get behind. He says Palin should have had the option of selecting the best person for the job rather than being limited to the choices the Council sent her. Full story at LifeNews.com

There goes 2012 :(

Fr. Euteneuer: "Brownback - Turncoat"

2009-03-06T11:38:00.005-06:00

I am not a politician, I am a priest. So I would like to give my priestly perspective about the recent endorsement of Senator Sam Brownback for the candidacy of Kathleen Sebelius for Secretary of Health and Human Services: Senator Brownback's cowardly betrayal of his Catholic faith is even more damaging than his political permission for this renegade to take office.

The situation is atrocious. An extremist abortion hack (called the most pro-abortion governor in the nation by many), who falsely calls herself "Catholic," is given the opportunity to preside over the nation's healthcare system and normalize abortion even further; this radical is then endorsed by a US senator who also calls himself "Catholic" and who, many believe, wants her job back home when she becomes the abortion queen in DC.

With pro-lifers like Senator Sam Brownback, who needs pro-aborts?

Moral theologians can work out what level of cooperation in evil the Senator's endorsement represents - he is, after all, an influential senator whose opposition, if he had given it, may very well have stopped her nomination. Yet, those of us who do not breathe the rarified air of Washington DC and who have dedicated our lives to defending the sanctity of human life understand one thing: any covenant with the abortion industry or its promoters is consent to the killing. As a convert to the Catholic Faith, Senator Brownback seems not to understand the Church's profoundly wounded heart with regard the slaughter of the innocents. The Church tells us never to participate in that slaughter, no matter what the cost; we do not give aid and comfort to the enemies of human life, we do not stand by while the innocent are being dragged off to a violent murder, and under no circumstances do we endorse the political aspirations of their executioners. Politicians who sell the lives of babies for political gains are the worst kind of turncoats.

Yet, this Catholic Senator's decision constitutes, I think, a watershed moment for all of us who want to see an end to the immoral industry of baby-killing in our country. We will never be served by the compromise of our principles in any form. Catholicism is the solution to this culture of death. If only Catholics ourselves would fully live up to our doctrine and put it into practice, there would be no "Tiller the Killer"s in Kansas, no partial birth abortions, no immoral sex education in the schools or Planned Parenthoods dominating our public life. Self-described "Catholics" like Brownback (in politics), Doug Kmiec (in academia), Hannity, Matthews and O'Reilly (in media) and others are not the solution to the problem - they are enablers of the problem. Despite their high-sounding lip service to the culture of life, they are compromisers. They will never end abortion because they don't want to end abortion.

I have often said that false Catholics, whether they be Cardinals, politicians or janitors, are the ones who have the most to account for on the Day of Judgment when they will have to account for ignoring Christ in His "least brethren," the unborn. Whether through advocacy of the evil (like Sebelius) or negligence in stopping it (like Brownback), they have blood on their hands. They've been given everything the Church has to offer: the teaching, the sacraments, the example of the saints and the grace to stand against Satan and all his works and all his empty promises. In other words, they know better, and the Biblical warning applies to them: "To whom much has been given, much will be required." Cowards and turncoats beware.

Sincerely,

Rev. Thomas J. Euteneuer,
President, Human Life International

Brownback backs Sebelius for HHS

Ember Days

2009-03-03T19:36:00.006-06:00

Wednesday, Friday and Saturday are Ember Days! On these days, we are to thank and ask God for mercy and peace as our (weather) seasons change. However, in the Spirit of Vatican II, most of the Church ignores the traditional calender and this beautiful traditions. During Ember Days we pray and fast - which might be easy to do during lent!

Oh my Josh!

2009-03-02T15:35:00.003-06:00

"It was the first political event I've ever been a part of that I've ever been so proud to be a part of," - Josh Groban quoted by OK magazine after singing for President Obama's inaugural celebration.

Warning, you'll probably want to fast after reading this post too.

He was also involved in the highly liberal organization, Rock the Vote, which encourages illinformed young people to vote.

I found out about Groban's political views while watching these two videos here and here.

I for one, am starting a boycott. I put away his Cd -with my mom's already buried Bruce Springsteen CD, so I won't be tempted to buy any more of his music with my money....which would end up in some liberal's organization's pocket until he has a conversion.

This will make you want to fast...

2009-02-26T12:14:00.004-06:00

...just in case you need more motivation.

H/T: Fr. Z

Happy Fat Tuesday!

2009-02-24T10:37:00.003-06:00

Ah, the joy of eating paczkis!

Actually, Jake didn't even eat this paczki becuase it had jelly in it. He just liked posing with his new hat and cassock!

Video of the Week/Mantillas

2009-02-23T21:49:00.008-06:00

Notice at 7:00 St. Mary Magdalen pulls her *veil* on. No, I did not notice that, someone just mentioned that to my mom the other day.

We started wearing chapel veils/mantillas to mass (the same sacrifice as that of the Cross) about three years ago when we visited the OLAM Shrine in Alabama. A priest friend of ours was in the gift shop and gave my mom money to buy one. Yet, my mom was hesitant. She asked why we should wear it and he said "I wear my collar."

Ever since then, we've been wearing the veils as a sign of respect - and penance. We're sometimes the "odd balls" but, we offer it up!

Buy your Chapel Veil here!

Note: I will not be posting any "Video of the Week"s during Lent.

Support Pope Benedict

2009-02-16T09:32:00.001-06:00

Please sign the petition!:
http://www.soutienabenoitxvi.org/index.php?lang=uk

Video of the Week

2009-02-15T16:04:00.000-06:00

Happy St. Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T20:59:00.002-06:00

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/02/10/woman-mouths-i-love-you-b_n_165791.html

Changing the Fate of America - by my sister

2009-02-10T20:39:00.006-06:00

If you had the chance to save millions of lives from a horrible death, would you?

Imagine you are living in Nazi Germany, where Hitler has taken power and is deporting all the “subhumans” to concentration camps. You reflect on the culture mantality of cleansing the “master race” and bringing about the change where there will be no more impurities, diseases, or suffering. But what is necessary to bring about this change? The answer: the death of 12 million innocent men, women, and children.

Welcome to America as it is today. Millions of children are being killed by America’s hidden holocaust, abortion, and people, including our spiritual leaders, are more concerned about saving animals and the enviroment. Our radically pro-abortion President Barack Hussein Obama has promised to sign the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) into law. The FOCA is the next step in advancing the slaughter of the innocents in this legalized massacre called abortion. The Freedom of Choice Act will require all hospitals, including Catholic hospitals, to perform abortions upon request. If this happens, the Catholic Bishops vow to close down all Catholic hospitals - more then 30% of all hospitals in the U.S. . The FOCA will allow the gruesome procedure of Partial birth abortion to be legal and have no limitations. Also, all U.S. taxpayers will be forced to fund abortions through their tax dollars. Parental notification of abortions of young girls will no longer be required (regardless of age). If signed into law, the estimated number of the increase in abortions may exceed 100,000 annually. FOCA would also give the government control in the issue of abortion, which could result in future amendments like Communist China’s one-child-policy.

Though the future of the prolife movement may look bleak, we can draw inspiration from the story of a woman who selflessly dedicated herself from saving lives. From the Associated Press, May 12 2008:

Warsaw, Poland - Irena Sendler – a Polish social worker who helped save some
2,500 Jewish children from the Nazis by smuggling them out of the Warsaw Ghetto
and giving them false identities - has died. She was 98....Born in Warsaw,
Sendler served as a social worker with the city's welfare department,
masterminding the risky rescue operations of Jewish children from the Warsaw
Ghetto during Nazi Germany's brutal World War II occupation....
Records show
that Sendler's team of some 20 people saved nearly 2,500 children from the
Warsaw Ghetto between October 1940 and April 1943, when the Nazis burned the
ghetto, shooting the residents or sending them to death camps.

In hopes of one day uniting the children with their families - most of whom perished in the Nazis' death camps - Sendler wrote the children's real names on slips of paper that she kept at home.When German police came to arrest her in 1943, an assistant managed to hide the slips, which Sendler later buried in a jar under an apple tree in an associate's yard. Some 2,500 names were recorded."It took a true miracle to save a Jewish child,” said Elzbieta Ficowska, who was saved by Sendler's team as a baby in 1942, "Mrs. Sendler saved not only us, but also our children and grandchildren and the generations to come."

And what about the 50 million aborted babies since Roe vs. Wade? What about their missing children and grandchildren? We will never be able to estimate the impact their deaths have caused.

If we don’t get involved in the fight for life now what will be the future of tomorrow?
“If a mother can kill her unwanted child, why can’t the child kill her unwanted mother?” - Rev. Father Pavone. If we allow the killing of an innocent baby how long will it be before we start killing anyone else who is an inconvenience. Our generation must wake up and speak up before it is too late. Yet, we have reason to hope for the victory is already won. Christ has conquered death but will you and I be deemed worthy to reap the reward? As it says in the book of James,” Faith without works is dead.” We must summit ourselves to God’s will and do our part to end abortion. The following is an inspirational quote from the late Henry Hyde. “…God will look at you and say not, "Did you succeed?" but "Did you try?"'

Altar Boy, Jacob!

2009-02-10T18:45:00.005-06:00

Jacob, my youngest brother, served his first mass last Friday!

Video of the Week

2009-02-08T22:44:00.000-06:00

Altar Server

2009-02-04T21:31:00.005-06:00

My little brother served his first mass yesterday - and it was a Tridentine Low Mass! We are so proud of him!

Happy Birthday, Fr. Pavone!

2009-02-04T20:39:00.003-06:00

I don't know if today is the exact date but, Fr. Pavone's (Priests for Life) birthday is sometime in the first week in Febuary. I thought it would be nice if everyone could take the time and send him a little birthday greeting. Priests' for Life e-mail is mail@priestsforlife.org

Video of the Week

2009-02-01T10:35:00.001-06:00

Louder Than Words

2009-01-28T12:15:00.002-06:00

The SpeakOut Illinois Confrence is coming up on Saturday. I'm submitting this essay for the essaycontest:

It is a normal, hectic, weekend and among all your other priorities, you volunteered to pray at the local Planned Parenthood. On the way there, you stop at your near-by coffee shop to grab a cup to go. As you are waiting for your coffee, you see your friend. After asking her if she had any plans for the day, you invite her to join you on your quest. Surprisingly, your friend looks at you dumb-founded. You both become uncomfortable as she starts twirling her hair, biting her lip and making excuses as to why she can’t join you. She ends the conversation with an uneasy smile and walks away.

This scenario could play out in many different ways; whether it’s a friend at school, a family member at a holiday party, or even a complete stranger. Whoever it may be, we need to take a stand for life. Today, many people are ill-informed, lied to, or just don’t know the facts. We need to reach out to these people where they are and feed them the truth. They may not hear it anywhere else, they may reject it, but still, once the truth is spoken, it can not be unheard.

People are being misguided and lied to by the media and/or abortion industry. Pro-life activists are being portrayed as being “abortion clinic bombers,” “women haters” and or “religious fanatics”. Pro-Life teens could be labeled as “freaks,” “un-cool,” “weird,” etc., by their friends and peers. This peer pressure doesn’t end at graduation either. Many pro-life adults are afraid to speak the truth in fear of losing their jobs, being labeled as “judgmental” and being blackballed by friends and neighbors.

The fact is, at least sixty percent of the U.S. population is pro-life. The proverbial squeaky wheel is getting the grease. Our tax dollars are funding abortion and many don’t even know it. The medical industry, doctors whom we are to trust with our lives no longer take the Hippocratic Oath, instead, they have fancy titles like, ‘selective reduction’ and ‘DNC’. Babies are being killed, women are being lied to and deceived, whole countries are in economic ruin, it’s a no win situation. The United States in now seeing suicide rates the heights it has ever seen, coincidence? Over fifty million babies and their potential families have already been exterminated by abortion in our country. The dark culture of death is swallowing more of our country, making it too dark for some to see the light.

With the new pro-abortion President, deceptive politicians and media, the future of the pro-life movement can look pretty bleak. There must be a renewed pro-life effort in these hard times, to become encouraged and not discouraged. Even if total success is not within our grasp, we must succeed in standing up for the truth.

Praying for an end to abortion is only the first step in becoming active. As Father Pavone once said, ‘You don’t tell to a drowning person that you will pray for them’. No, you go and try to help the person who is drowning.” Another analogy could be preparing for a test. You don’t only pray to do well on the test, you have to study. We cannot be idol when innocent people are being killed. We have to go out into the world and try to save them. If they were killing two year olds, would we make time to get there?

As Christians, we are all called to live the Gospel of Life in all aspects. By living a life of prayer, we can obtain the strength and graces needed to take on the culture of death. Not just witnessing to some, but to all, even when it’s tough, even when it’s being a fool for Christ. The old Baltimore Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us why we are here, to know Him, love Him and serve Him as to be united with Him in Heaven. If we all, ‘Become as little children,’ we shall be rewarded in Heaven. This advice relates to another story in the Old Testament days, of Sadrach, Meshach and Abednego. They are the three children who would not bow to a pagan culture of death. Reminding ourselves of God’s promise and keeping our eyes focused on Him, let’s place our hope in God almighty and not in politicians. Uniting for life, we will become a culture of life.

A Lesson Learned - A Public Confession/Testimony

2009-01-28T12:01:00.004-06:00

So, my plan was to keep all my school work on my laptop. I had tests, paragraphs, etc., all to be submitted together. "If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."

I was (still am) lazy. I did not "back up" any of my files nor did I print anything out.

Yesterday, my laptop crashed. Need I say more?

Video of the Week

2009-01-25T16:36:00.000-06:00

March for Life 2009

2009-01-24T09:55:00.014-06:00

Just got back from the March for Life in DC! An estimated 300,000 people marched!

We arrived in at our hotel in DC on Wednesday, the 21st at 6:00pm. My mom drove for 14 hours!

On Thursday we took the subway to the National Basilica to attend a Latin Mass. While we were at the Basilica we saw Fr. Captiverti (sp). We met him in Alabama about 4 years ago when we stalked Fr. Pavone and the members of Priests for Life.

After mass we ran to the hotel and saw Fr. Jarrod McCambridge from the Fraternity of St. Peter. We met Father when he was a Seminarian doing a Face the Truth Tour in Aurora, Illinois about five years ago - that was our first Face the Truth Tour. It was so good to see him and get a blessing!

Then we walked to the National Mall. There were great graphic displays along the way.

Surprisingly we found some friends from home and Fr. Hellmann of the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest. Fr. Hellmann got transferred from the Shrine of Christ the King in Chicago to a church in New Jersey. He brought about 50 people to the march from his church.

We saw Fr. Trigilio while marching.

When we got to the Supreme Court building we listened to some "Silent No More" testimonies and saw Br. Pio and Fr. Mark from EWTN. My sister got "interviewed" so we might see her on Life on the Rock next week - not.

Then I got a picture with the great pro-lifer, Mr. Randall Terry. Bad hair day!

We got back to our hotel room around 6 and then went to the "Rose Dinner." Unfortunately none of the pictures I took at the dinner turned out. My pictures of Fr. Pavone are pretty blurry, eh?

We had a great time defending life!

New Poll

2009-01-18T21:31:00.003-06:00

What was your favorite Video of the Week for the month of December?
(Click on the video title to watch)

· Merry Tossmass.
· Scary Santa.
· Charlie Brown Christmas Tree.
· Bells of St. Mary's Christmas Pageant.

Please vote using the poll on the left

SpeakOut Illinois!

2009-01-18T21:13:00.004-06:00

Reminder! Sign up for SpeakOut Illinois!

http://speakoutillinois.org/index.php

Speakers Include:

• Fr. Thomas Euteneur (I have to brag - I'm a part of his "groupie")
• Phyllis Schlafly
• Dr. Alveda King

I'm still working on my TeenSpeak essay. I'll post it when it's complete! Hopefully I'll have some good competition :)

Video of the Week

2009-01-18T21:08:00.003-06:00

I wanted a to keep the "Video of the Week" funny but with the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade I had to do something pro-life.

Good analogy.

Thank You, Mr. President

2009-01-15T10:52:00.004-06:00

This week President Bush has been in the news, preparing to leave office L

Our country should be grateful to him for keeping us safe and his firm stance on pro-life issues such as:

The appointment of two pro-life Supreme Court Justices (Roberts and Alito)
The Partial Birth Abortion Ban
Born-Alive Infants Protection Act
2004 Unborn Victims of Violence Act
Vetoing Embryonic Stem Cell research funding

I hope everyone can send him an e-mail of thanks before he leaves the white house at: comments@whitehouse.gov

Video of the Week

2009-01-11T19:18:00.000-06:00

Requiescat In Pace, Fr. Neuhaus

2009-01-11T16:23:00.004-06:00

Mr. Raymond Arroyo (EWTN) wrote a very nice tribute to Fr. Neuhaus who passed away Thursday, January 8, 2009:

For me personally, Father Neuhaus will forever be attached to the election of Pope Benedict XVI and, early last year, his journey to America. Father Neuhaus was my co-host for the Eternal Word Television Network's live coverage of those events, providing commentary that was erudite and occasionally cutting. When I announced to our viewers that the pope would be meeting with the American bishops in the crypt of National Basilica in Washington, Father Neuhaus quipped: "A fitting repository for the American Episcopacy."

When one steps back and looks at the turns of Father Neuhaus's life -- at his active engagement with social causes and, when American culture changed, with those "first things" that came to matter more than ever; at his willingness to forsake friendships and old alliances to pursue the truth -- it is ever more clear that he was willing to obey the promptings of his faith, no matter where they took him.

Read the whole article here: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123146278576166541.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

Oremus

2009-01-07T11:35:00.002-06:00

Urgent prayers needed for Philip Gerard Johnson!

The Infant King Awaits YOU......

2009-01-06T20:23:00.009-06:00

Solemn Pontifical Mass
Sunday, January 11th, 10:00 am

at the Shrine of Christ the King Sovereign Priest,
6415 South Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago

Celebrant: His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, Auxilary Bishop of Chicago

Choral Music Provided by The Chicago Chorale under the direction of Mr. Bruce Tammen
Missa O Magnum Mysterium of Tomas Luis de Victoria

After Mass : "Discover the Treasure: Gregorian Chant for Everyone"
A free conference and chant practice open to all given by Canon Wulfran Lebocq, Choir Master of the Institute's International Seminary.

Pray a Novena to STOP the FOCA

2009-01-05T15:01:00.006-06:00

I just received this e-mail and wished to pass it along!

Please read the information below and join us in prayer and fasting January 11-19, 2009.

The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) will be signed into law if Congress passes it on January 21-22, 2009. The FOCA is the next sick chapter in the book of abortion. If signed into law, all limitations on abortion will be lifted, resulting in the following:1) All hospitals, including Catholic hospitals, will be required to perform abortions upon request. If this happens, Bishops vow to close down all Catholic hospitals - more then 30% of all hospitals in the U.S.2) Partial birth abortions will be legal and have no limitations.3) All U.S. taxpayers will be funding abortions.4) Parental notification of abortions on minors will no longer be required (regardless of age).5) The estimated number of increase in abortions is 100,000 annually.Just as important, the government will now have control in the issue of abortion. This could result in a future amendment that would force women by law to have abortions in certain situations (rape, Down Syndrome babies, etc) and could even regulate how many children women are allowed to have.Needless to say this information is disturbing, but sadly true. As Catholics, as Christians, as anyone who is against the needless killing of innocent children, we must stand as one. We must stop this horrific act before it becomes a law.

PLEASE JOIN US IN saying a novena and fasting from January 11-19. For Catholics, the prayer of choice is the rosary for the special intention of stopping the FOCA. For non-Catholics we encourage you to pray your strongest prayers with the same intention for 9 consecutive days.

We hope and pray this will branch and blossom to become a global effort. Please do the following 3 things:1) Pass this information on quickly (so as many as possible can start praying on January 11)2) Say a novena from January 11-19, asking God to prevent the FOCA from becoming law in the U.S.3) Fast at least 2 days during this novena (either a complete fast of bread and water, or a Lenten fast of no meat and meals limited to 1regular meal and 2 lesser meals during the day).Remember that with God all things are possible and the power of prayer is undeniable.

Please sign the petition on the left too!

[HT: A.V.]

Video of the Week

2009-01-04T10:55:00.002-06:00

Most Catholics already know that the real "Twelve Days of Christmas" song was written in England during the Catholic Persecutions and had hidden meanings:

1 Partridge in Pear Tree - Christ
2 Turtle Doves = The Old and New Testaments
3 French Hens = Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues
4 Calling Birds = the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists
5 Golden Rings = The first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.
6 Geese A-laying = the six days of creation
7 Swans A-swimming = the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments
8 Maids A-milking = the eight beatitudes
9 Ladies Dancing = the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit
10 Lords A-leaping = the ten commandments
11 Pipers Piping = the eleven faithful apostles
12 Drummers Drumming = the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T00:15:00.000-06:00

Blessings in '09!

Christmas Party!

2008-12-29T21:13:00.004-06:00

I often hear stories about people getting in feisty discussions with their relatives at family gatherings. Usually, my family doesn’t mention politics or religion (even though we almost always wear pro-life t-shirts) but this time I started a little conversation.

My cousin’s wife works for the NRA and my Uncle who lives in Missouri bought my aunt a gun for Christmas. My mom wanted a gun for Christmas (but didn’t get one) so I asked him about it. We got into a little discussion how our 2nd amendment rights are being violated with the new restrictions being made. Bringing up the pro-aborts attack at the “Empty Manger Christmas Caroling” in Chicago with Pro-Life Action League, (that my mom went to) my mom made the point that the rights of the innocent unborn are being denied. That’s when it got a little hot and he disagreed. He gave the old reply that abortion a right, “a moral issue” that politics should not be involved in.

Abortion, killing a baby, is not a right. Life is a right which everyone innocent deserves. Without life, Uncle, how can anything be? Rights have limits. Calling abortion a right is like calling murder a right. What’s the difference? Nothing. Abortion is killing a defenseless innocent child! Common sense!

The direct correlation is explicit and very easy to understand. I don’t understand how a person who believes in the Second Amendment does not believe in the right to Life. The two issues go hand in hand. Pro-lifers have the right to defend the right to life, which everything stems from, just as gun owners have the right to protect themselves and their families by owning guns. We are all protecting innocent life.

As my mom says, the first thing Hitler did was ban guns and allowed Jews to have abortions. Is history going to repeat itself…..or is it already?

Video of the Week

2008-12-28T16:16:00.001-06:00

TIED WINNER OF Video of the Week for December (tied with Charlie Brown)

Felix Dies Nativitatis!

2008-12-25T21:28:00.003-06:00

Hope everyone has/had a very blessed and Merry Christmas!

YOUR favorite Pro-Life Blog

2008-12-22T16:09:00.003-06:00

Vote for your favorite pro-life blog here: http://www.prolifeblogawards.com/register.php

*hint*hint*

[HT: Patricia]

Video of the Week/Orgin of the Christmas Tree

2008-12-21T17:16:00.008-06:00

In today's bulletin - from the Shrine of Christ the King, the "Origin of the Christmas Tree" is posted. I found it intresting so here it is:

"Saint Boniface, an English missionary known as the '"Apostle of Germany"', in 722 came upon some men who were about to cut a huge oak tree as a stake (Oak of Thor) for a human sacrifice to their pagan god. With one mighty blow, Saint Boniface himself felled the massive oak and as the tree split, a beautiful young fir tree sprang from its center. Saint Boniface told the people that his lovely evergreen, with its branches pointing to heaven, was indeed a holy tree, the tree of the Christ Child, a symbol of His promise of eternal life. He instructed them henceforth to carry the evergreen from the wilderness into their homes and to surround it with gifts, symbols of love and kindness. "

St. Boniface was eventually murdered by the pagans after he chopped down their tree, but they did not abolish the Truth of Christ from Germany.

Today, pagans in our society hate the Christmas tree so much they call it the "Holiday Tree." (Target) They keep trying to do away with the Truth, Christ, but they can't. As St. Theresa Avila said, "Truth suffers but never dies."

St. Boniface, pray for us!

Video of the Week:

Video of the Week

2008-12-15T16:54:00.000-06:00

Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

2008-12-15T15:19:00.008-06:00

We made a safe trip home on Friday night after a long day at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Early that morning we went to the Shrine visitor center to "Wake up Mary" with songs. The Archbishop stood right next to me and sang. Yipes!

Then, we walked up the to the shrine and prayed the Rosary. It was my first time being in the completed shrine and it is beautiful.

After that, hundreds processed to the new mosaluem which the Archbishop then dedicated to the Unborn.

It was a beautiful drive and an honor to be at the shrine.

I am sorry for not posting this weekend. A young distant cousin of mine was tragicly killed in a car accident. Please keep him (his soul) and his family in your prayers.

We'll see....

2008-12-11T09:51:00.004-06:00

We're leaving for La Crosse any minute now and it looks as if we will be in the midst of some controversy:

http://stlouiscatholic.blogspot.com/2008/12/lawyers-for-excommunicated-board-of.html

We shall see what happens. My mom mentioned something about writing on the car...

Video of the Week

2008-12-07T11:04:00.002-06:00

Video of the Week for the first week of December:

To me, the end is the best part!

New Poll

2008-12-07T10:15:00.000-06:00

Vote for your favorite "Video of the Week" for the month of November.

Here are links to the videos:

Little Sarah Palin
Obamatopia
Change!
American Idol...
Stooges

The poll is to the left!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

2008-12-06T18:36:00.007-06:00

My favorite miracle of St. Nicholas (which God performed through him) from my Mom's book of saints:

"On one visitation he stayed in the house of a man into whom
Satan seemed to have entered; for when meat failed for his table he supplied it with the flesh of little children whom he stole and murdered in order to serve as meat to the travelers who were his guests. It was this
horrible repast, disguised with his best skill, that this wicked man
dared to set before the Bishop and his companions. No sooner had the man of God set his eyes upon the sumptuous table and upon the 'meat' prepared for him, that he understood the horrible fraud. He charged the host with this abominable crime, and the man, trembling confessed his sin. Then, St. Nicholas led the way to the place were the remains where the remains of the other victims had been hidden, To the horror of all, they found them salted down in a tub. Clothed with the majesty of a Bishop of God, and endowed with the power which the Almighty One gives to His Saints, no sooner had St. Nicholas made over them the sign of the cross, than the three little children were restored to life, and then given back to their Mother."

I hope everyone has/had a blessed day!

St. Nicholas, Patron Saint of children, pray for us!

Novena to the Immaculate Conception

2008-11-30T22:37:00.003-06:00

Sorry, this Novena was to be said November 29-December 7th but I just became aware of it now.

O most Holy Virgin who wast pleasing to God and didst become His Mother.
Immaculate in Thy body, in Thy soul in Thy faith and in Thy love, we beseech
Thee to look graciously upon the wretched who implore Thy powerful protection.
The wicked serpent, against whom the primal curse was hurled, continues
nonetheless to wage war and lay snares for the unhappy children of Eve. Ah, do
thou our blessed Mother our Queen and Advocate, who from the first instant of
thy conception didst crush the head of our enemy, receive the prayers we unite
single heartily to Thine and conjurer Thee to offer at the throne of God, that
we may never fall into the snares that are laid for us, in such wise that we may
all come to the heaven of salvation; and in the midst of so many
dangers may holy Church and the fellowship of Christians everywhere sing
once more the hymn of deliverance, victory and peace. Amen.

[HT: Patricia W]

Video of the Week

2008-11-30T22:18:00.002-06:00

A Must Watch

2008-11-29T14:30:00.008-06:00

Volition, a fantastic short film with an explicit pro-life
message.

From LifeSite News:

As the synopsis of the film states, “Throughout history, men have been faced
with difficult choices in a world that makes it easy for them to conform. This
film explores the hope that lies behind every decision made in the face of
adversity; the hope that is buried in the heart of those that look beyond
themselves and see something bigger worth fighting for.”

-Click here to watch -

[HT: Generations for Life]

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T15:30:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Trivia (click here)

Video of the Week

2008-11-23T11:28:00.004-06:00

People get this discouraged over American Idol? LOL!

Their emotions remind me of my family on Election Night... and the sadness will probably continue for the next four years...

[HT: HotAir]

WON! VIDEO OF THE WEEK FOR NOVEMBER

Fall

2008-11-22T14:33:00.003-06:00

Every year around this time wild animals travel thru the park in our back yard.

Last week -- when I was at my desk, intent in doing my school work, I noticed a huge bird in our tree. I was able to get close to it and snapped a few shots but it was just a red tailed hawk. My little brother made some squeaky noises and it looked down at him like this:

Days latter, we saw two coyotes go through the field. I ran out to get a picture and one started to come towards me. I ran in the house right away and the coyote ran in the opposite direction too. We scared each other.

Oh, and I found this animal in our house...

Video of the Week

2008-11-16T18:51:00.000-06:00