Catholic Fire

The new and improved Meme is the "4 new x 2" is a variation of the eight things meme and I've been tagged by Esther. The rules: You have to share four things that were new to you in the past four years. Four things you learned or experienced or explored for the first time in the past four years. New house, new school, new hobby, new spouse, new baby, whatever. Then you have to say four things you want to try new in the next four years. Four Things That were new to me in the Past Four Years: 1. Kansas - We moved here 19 months ago from IL. Prior to moving here, I had only been through Kansas late at night traveling on a train headed for Houston, Texas, so I had no idea of what it would be like to live here. I love it here - at least in the area where we're living. The pace is slower and there is so much more to do here. Property taxes are lower than IL and there are many advantages to living here. There are many faithful Catholics in this area. 2. Working as a Crisis P...

Accuses KS Governor of protecting Tiller New York City, NY – Fox News host Bill O’Reilly rebounded from a six-month silence to issue a scathing segment on the notorious late-term abortionist George R. Tiller that aired the evening of May 30. During the segment, O’Reilly blasted Tiller for “executing fetuses” for “vague medical reasons.” He was equally critical of Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, who vetoed a bill that would have required Tiller to provide specific medical reasons for abortions after 21 weeks of pregnancy. “Incredibly, Gov. Sebelius is protecting Tiller,” O’Reilly said during his broadcast. “And Gov. Sebelius is allowing him to continue the slaughter. How the governor sleeps at night is beyond me.” O’Reilly produced a document showing that Tiller has a lengthy history of campaign contributions to Sebelius going back to 1994. O’Reilly’s guest was Rep. Ben Hodge, who resigned a committee post in protest of the lack of action by Speaker Melvin Neufeld to bring Tiller to just...

“Mary set out, proceeding in haste.” As soon as the angel had visited Mary, she went with haste to her cousin Elizabeth, who herself was expecting a child. And the child to be born, John the Baptist, leaped for joy in Elizabeth’s womb. How marvelous! The all-powerful God chose a child yet to be born to announce his Son’s coming! In the mystery of the Annunciation and the Visitation, Mary is the very model of the life we should lead. First of all, she welcomed Jesus in her existence; then, she shared what she had received. Every time we receive Holy Communion, Jesus the Word becomes flesh in our life – gift of God who is at one and the same time beautiful, kind, unique. Thus, the first Eucharist was such: Mary’s offering of her Son in her, in whom he had set up the first altar. Mary, the only one who could affirm with absolute confidence, “this is my body”, from that first moment offered her own body, her strength, all her being, to form the Body of Christ. Our mother the C...

"It is cowardly to refuse to face the consequences of one's acts. Person's who use contraceptives will never learn the virtue of self-restraint. Self - indulgence with contraceptives will sap the vitality of both men and women." ~ Mahatma Ghandi "People should put their time, their energy and their money to just enjoying their [male organ]." ~ Planned Parenthood of Western Washington

During my Holy Hour today at Eucharistic Adoration, I prayed for the following intentions and invite all of you to join me in prayer for these requests: For peace, healing, and comfort for Betty and Jim and their entire family. Their oldest granddaughter Jessi, Jessi's boyfriend, and 3 - year - old Sammy (a twin) were in a bad car accident on Memorial Day. Jessi's boyfriend was killed on the spot and Sammy later died after emergency surgery. Jessi is still alive, but is in critical condition. For the intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace and for the protection of the lives of our military. For a job for Darin and a place for him to live, as his lease expires at the end of this month. For the repose of the soul of Darin's uncle and for peace, comfort, and healing for the family. For the special intentions of L. and her family. For healing for Dave, who has stomach cancer. For an end to abortion and all sins against life. For a special intention. For all previous pra...

Wednesday of the Eighth Week of Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Joan of Arc, Patroness of Soldiers and France Today in Catholic History: 339 The church historian Eusebius of Caesarea died (b. ca. 275). 1431 - Hundred Years' War : In Rouen, France, 19-year-old Joan of Arc is burned at the stake. Birthdays: 1909 - Benny Goodman , American clarinetist and bandleader (d. 1986) 1922 - Hal Clement , American writer (d. 2003) 1927 - Clint Walker , American actor 1943 - Gale Sayers , American football player

"Our present life is given only to gain the eternal one and if we don't think about it, we build our affections on what belongs to this world, where our life is transitory. When we have to leave it we are afraid and become agitated. Believe me, to live happily in this pilgrimage, we have to aim at the hope of arriving at our Homeland, where we will stay eternally. Meanwhile we have to believe firmly that God calls us to Himself and follows us along the path towards Him. He will never permit anything to happen to us that is not for our greater good. He knows who we are and He will hold out His paternal hand to us during difficulties, so that nothing prevents us from running to Him swiftly. But to enjoy this grace we must have complete trust in Him." "The more you are afflicted, the more you ought to rejoice, because in the fire of tribulation the soul will become pure gold, worthy to be placed and to shine in the heavenly palace." ~ St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina

By John Jalsevac SAN FRANCISCO, CA, May 29, 2007 (LifeSiteNews.com) - The Bay Area adoption/foster care agency, Family Builders, partnering with the City and County of San Francisco, has launched a controversial ad campaign in the hope of attracting more homosexual couples to adopt children. Two of the posters that form the core of the campaign feature homosexual couples together with their adopted children. The signs either use the slogan "Family Planning," with the phrase beneath, "Our family was no accident-we planned for it," or the slogan "Intelligent Design," with the phrase, "Before we started our family we considered all the options." Family Builders is the adoption agency that San Francisco's Catholic Charities partnered with last year after the government enforced legislation mandating that all adoption agencies permit homosexual adoptions. Rather than follow the lead of Boston's Catholic archdiocese, which closed its adoption ...

By Dick Morris & Eileen McGann Newsmax Tuesday, May 29, 2007 Since he left office in 2001, former president Bill Clinton has been paid by $3.3 million by InfoUSA, an Omaha, Nebraska company that has been identified as a key provider of specially designed databases that have been sold to criminals who use the detailed information to defraud the unsuspecting elderly. The consulting fees to the former president were only part of the largess InfoUSA showered on the former president. Vinod Gupta, the CEO of InfoUSA, lent the Clintons the company's jet which took them to places like Switzerland, Hawaii, Jamaica and Mexico. The jet service was worth a staggering $900,000. And Gupta gave the Clinton library a six-figure gift as well. Indeed, just months after he left the presidency, Bill Clinton was paid $200,000 for a speech given to InfoUSA in Omaha. InfoUSA is not the kind of company with which a former president and the husband of a presidential candidate should associate. Accordin...

Check out Peter Slevin's article on Archbishop Burke in the Washington Post . I could go on and on about all the issues this brings up, but since I have already addressed most of the issues here and need to leave for daily Mass soon, I just want to say Thank God we have clergy like Archbishop Burke who have the courage to stand up for the truth and the teachings of their faith. Thank God we have role models like him who don't back down to the pressures of our corrupt society. I look at what a wonderful example he is to all of us as Catholics and I pray that God will reward him abundantly for his strong Catholic pro-life stance and for being a humble and obedient servant of the Church. Let us praise the Lord for Archbishop Burke! Let us pray for many more clergy like him.

The Holy Spirit manifests Christ to us, recalls His words, and open our minds to the Paschal Mystery. Rejoicing in the Spirit we pray: In thanksgiving for Charlene's mother being released from the hospital and for continued healing. For the intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace and for the protection of the lives of our military. For an end to abortion and all sins against life. For my dear husband Bill who is in desperate need of work at this time. Our health insurance will be expiring this week. Jesus, we trust in You! For a job for Darin and a place for him to live, as his lease expires at the end of this month. For the repose of the soul of Darin's uncle and for peace, comfort, and healing for the family. For the special intentions of L. and her family. For healing for Dave, who has stomach cancer. For our current parish priests and for the newly ordained priests who are being assigned to our parish. For Brother A - D, who took his vows on Pentecost and for Susan ...

Tuesday of the Eighth Week of Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Maximus of Trier On This Day in Catholic History: 757 - Paul I succeeds Stephen II as pope. 1453 Constantinople fell to the Turks under Muhammad II, ending the Byzantine Empire and the Middle Ages. The city, the capital of Eastern Christianity since 324, was renamed Istanbul, and the Ottoman Empire began. The lavish cathedral, Hagia Sophia, was converted into a mosque. 1954 Pope Pius X (1835–1914) was canonized. 1982 - Pope John Paul II becomes the first pontiff ever to visit Canterbury Cathedral . Birthdays: 1736 - Patrick Henry , American patriot (d. 1799) 1874 - G. K. Chesterton , English novelist (d. 1936) 1903 - Bob Hope , British-born comedian and actor (d. 2003) 1917 - John Fitzgerald Kennedy , 35th President of the United States (d. 1963) 1939 - Al Unser , American race car driver 1978 - Lorenzo Odone , Adrenoleukodystrophy victim

Mike Huckabee, a strong pro-life candidate for the 2008 Presidential election, has some excellent ideas about immigration. I agree with him - secure our borders first and enforce our current laws.

Robert E. Rector , a leading expert on poverty and the U.S. Welfare System and Senior Research Fellow in Domestic Policy Studies at The Heritage Foundation, appeared as a guest on Raymond Arroyo's World Over Live recently. I was stunned by Rector's statements in the interview, particularly as he described the details of The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act (CIRA, S.2611). I knew there were flaws in this proposal, but I had no idea how outlandish this act is. Rector explained that CIRA would create a new "Z" visa exclusively for illegal aliens. This title would change the status of those who are here illegally to legal, essentially granting amnesty to those "previously in unlawful status." This flawed proposal would also undermine the rule of law by granting massive benefits to those who have willfully violated U.S. laws, while denying those benefits to those who have played by the rules and sometimes even to U.S. citizens . Some of the many flaws of this...

4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days Bella Romanian director Cristian Mungiu's small film "4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days" has won the top prize at the 60th Cannes Flim Festival. Mungiu's film, "4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days," is a "harrowing" look at an illegal, back street abortion in communist-era Romania. It is the story of a timid student in a small town is desperate to terminate her mid-term pregnancy at a time when abortion is illegal but almost anything can be bought on the black market. In the film the pregnant Gabita, with the help of her friend, Otilia, meet with the inhuman and manipulative abortionist Mr. Bebe. In what is said to be one of the most powerful scenes in the film, Mr. Bebe gives the girls a purposely graphic description of the abortion procedure. Not content with taking life, however, Mr. Bebe exploits the situation further, demanding that Gabita and Otilia pay the terrible price of their personal dignity by exchanging sex for the a...

A Prayer for Memorial Day Remember, Lord, the fallen Who died in fields of war, In flaming clouds, in screaming crowds, On streets that are no more, That we today might waken And greet this day in peace With grateful prayer for those who bear The storms that never cease. Remember friends and strangers, And those forgotten now, Whose names are known to you alone, Before whose love we bow And ask that you surround them With mercy’s endless light That they may live, and we forgive The foe they went to fight. Remember, Lord, the living, Who bear the pain of loss - A death she died who stood beside Her Son upon the cross. Remember all your children The dead and those who weep, And make us one beneath the sun Where love will never sleep. Text: 7686D; Genevieve Glen, OSB; © 2005, Abbey of St. Walburga, Virginia Dale, CO. Published by OCP Publications.

How many books do you own? I haven't counted lately, but I would guess about 500. I have given many of my books away. What books are you reading now? Humility by Dietrich Von Hidebrand The World's First Love by Fulton J. Sheen Infinite Space, Infinite God by Karina Fabian Books I Have Read Recently: My Life With the Saints by Fr. James Martin A Holy Life: St. Bernadette of Lourdes by Patricia Mc Eachern Five Books That Mean a Lot to Me: The Bible True Devotion to Mary The Story of a Soul by St. Therese of Lisieux Mother Angelica by Raymond Arroyo Amazing Grace For Those Who Suffer by Jeff Cavins & Matt Pinto I tag anyone who wants to play. Via Leticia.

I don't doubt that this is true , but some of us have been faithfully praying to Mother Mary for her conversion and who knows? Let us continue to pray for her, not that she won't have to face the consequences of her actions, but that she'll leave the culture of darkness and enter into the light of His love.

On the day of Pentecost, "suddenly from up in the sky there came a noise like a strong, driving wind which was heard all through the house where they were seated. Tongues as of fire appeared, which parted and came to rest on each of them. All were filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to express themselves in foreign tongues and make bold proclamation as the Spirit prompted them" (Acts 2:2-4). Come, Holy Spirit Come, Holy Spirit, come! And from Thy celestial home Shed a ray of light divine! Come Father of the poor! Come source of all our store! Come within our bosoms shine! Thou, of comforters the best; Thou, the soul's most welcome guest; Sweet refreshment here below; In our labor, rest most sweet; Grateful coolness in the heat, Solace in the midst of woe. O most blessed Light divine Shine within these hearts of Thine. And our inmost being fill! Where you are not, man has naught, Nothing good in deed or thought, Nothing free from taint of ill. Heal our wounds, our st...

NINTH DAY Thou, on those who evermore Thee confess and Thee Adore, in Thy sevenfold gift, Descend; Give Them Comfort when they die; Give them Life with Thee on high; Give them joys which never end. Amen The Fruits of the Holy Spirit The gifts of the Holy Spirit perfect the supernatural virtues by enabling us to practice them with greater docility to divine inspiration. As we grow in the knowledge and love of God under the direction of the Holy Spirit, our service becomes more sincere and generous, the practice of virtue more perfect. Such acts of virtue leave the heart filled with joy and consolation and are known as Fruits of the Holy Spirit. These Fruits in turn render the practice of virtue more attractive and become a powerful incentive for still greater efforts in the service of God, to serve Whom is to reign. Prayer Come, O Divine Spirit, fill my heart with Thy heavenly fruits, Thy charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, faith, mildness, and temperance, that I may nev...

Here's 17- year- old Jordin Sparks singing her heart out at the American Idol Finale. I love to hear her sing Martina McBride's "A Broken Wing". Yes, she is a both a Christian and a pro-lifer, who wears a purity ring, which is her pledge that True Love Waits , or that she will remain pure and chaste for her husband on their wedding night. This is awesome! I had been cheering for her long before I discovered she was a young woman with strong morals and Christian beliefs, because of her incredible gift of music. She seemed so confident and mature for someone so young and performed consistently well throughout the competition. Check out Leticia's post at causa nostrae laetitiae and this post at LifesiteNews.Com for more information and photos. I hope and pray that her newfound fame won't change her. She's a winner that's for sure! Previous Post: Jordin Sparks: A Pro-life American Idol

Now this is good! This labeling should be mandatory. Via The Curt Jester.

Bend the stubborn heart and will, melt the frozen warm the chill. Guide the steps that go astray! The Gift of Wisdom Embodying all the other gifts, as charity embraces all the other virtues, Wisdom is the most perfect of the gifts. Of wisdom it is written "all good things came to me with her, and innumerable riches through her hands." It is the gift of Wisdom that strengthens our faith, fortifies hope, perfects charity, and promotes the practice of virtue in the highest degree. Wisdom enlightens the mind to discern and relish things divine, in the appreciation of which earthly joys lose their savor, whilst the Cross of Christ yields a divine sweetness according to the words of the Saviour: "Take up thy cross and follow me, for my yoke is sweet and my burden light. Prayer Come, O Spirit of Wisdom, and reveal to my soul the mysteries of heavenly things, their exceeding greatness, power and beauty. Teach me to love them above and beyond all the passing joys and satisfaction...

Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582), Carmelite, Doctor of the Church Poem “Vuestra soy, para vos nací” – In the Hands of God I am Yours and born for you, What do You want of me? Majestic Sovereign, Unending wisdom, Kindness pleasing to my soul; God sublime, one Being Good, Behold this one so vile. Singing of her love to you: What do You want of me? Yours, you made me, Yours, you saved me, Yours, you endured me, Yours, you called me, Yours, you awaited me, Yours, I did not stray. What do You want of me? Good Lord, what do you want of me, What is this wretch to do? What work is this, This sinful slave, to do? Look at me, Sweet Love, Sweet Love, look at me, What do You want of me? In Your hand I place my heart, Body, life and soul, Deep feelings and affections mine, Spouse – Redeemer sweet, Myself offered now to you, What do You want of me? Give me death, give me life, Health or sickness, Honor or shame, War or swelling peace, Weakness or full strength, Yes, to these I say, What do You want...

Shane Bernier is a 7 year old boy from Ontario , Canada . At the age of 5, Shane was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Through all his treatment and relapses, Shane has managed to keep a positive outlook on life. His goal in life? To break the world record for the most birthday cards ever received! His birthday is May 30, so let’s help make Shane’s wish come true! Something as simple as a birthday card sends a message of hope to this courageous young boy. You can read more about Shane here. You can mail your cards to: Shane Barnier PO Box 484 Lancaster, Ontario KOC 1NO Canada

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. With great thanks, we now present our petitions to the Father: For Esther's grandmother, Juanita. For Melanie's special intention. For Dom's nephew. For a successful job search for Bill and a job very soon, as there will soon be no income nor health insurance. For a good Catholic wife for Bob. For Charlene's mom who was admitted to the hospital today and is in the stroke unit. For all those who have requested my prayers. For all previous prayer intentions and for those around St. Blog's. Loving Father, You have done wondrous deeds. May we live with wonder before the mystery of Your love. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

St. Philip Neri was born in Florence, Italy on July 22, 1515. He was one of four children of the notary Francesco Neri. His mother died when he was very young, but a very capable and competent stepmother filled her place. Although they were related to Italian nobility, the family was quite poor. Philip was a cheerful and friendly boy, and was popular with all who knew him. At eighteen, Philip was sent to the town of San Germano, where he lived with a childless relative who had a business there to train as an apprentice and heir. Philip had a strong aptitude for business. Soon after his arrival, Philip began speaking of his conversion, which dramatically changed his life. He left his relative’s home and set out for Rome, as he had a vision that he had a mission to fulfill there. He left without money or a specific plan, trusting in God’s providence. In Rome, he found shelter in the home of Galeotto Caccia who offered him an attic and a few basic necessities in exchange for tutoring his ...

In a few months I will publish a book on exorcism and deliverance by which I hope to educate the Church Militant on the reality of spiritual evil and the truth of the Church’s power against it. On this weekend where our Church celebrates Pentecost, the great Feast of the Holy Spirit, I offer an excerpt from this upcoming book to highlight the influence of the Holy Spirit in defending our cause against the accusing spirit of the devil. If we are to fight for the salvation of souls, we must know our enemy and experience God’s love as the protective shield against all his evil. The following excerpt is taken from the chapter entitled, “The Devil, His Minions, and His Activities.” [More] Perhaps we should all chip in and purchase a copy for each of those 18 "Catholic" democrats who recently objected to the comments of Pope Benedict XVI about the fact that legislators favoring the legality of abortion should not receive Communion. These individuals claim to be Catholic, but don...

Irishman's Diet An Irishman was terribly overweight, so his doctor put him on a diet. I want you to eat regularly for 2 days, then skip a day, and repeat this procedure for 2 weeks, the next time I see you, you should have lost at least 5 pounds." When the Irishman returned, he shocked the doctor by having lost nearly 60 POUNDS! "Why, that's amazing!" the doctor said, "Did you follow my instructions?" The Irishman nodded..."I'll tell you ,though, I thought I were going to drop dead that 3rd day." "From hunger, you mean?" "No, from the bloody skipping!" *** A woman went to the doctor's office where she was seen by a young new doctor. After about four minutes in the examination room, the doctor told her she was pregnant. She burst out screaming and ran down the hallway. An older doctor stopped her and asked what the problem was. She told him her story. After listening, he had her sit down and relax in another room. Th...

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. With great thanks, we now present our petitions to the Father: For Birthday blessings for Julie D. For Esther's grandmother, Juanita. For Melanie's special intention. For Dom's nephew. For a successful job search for Bill and a job very soon. For a good Catholic wife for Bob. For an end to abortion and for the closing of all abortion mills, especially for Tiller's late-term abortion mill. For the young men who will be ordained as priests and for those who will become deacons in our diocese. For all previous prayer intentions mentioned here and for those around St. Blog's. Loving Father, You have done wondrous deeds. May we live with wonder before the mystery of Your love. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

The Gift of Counsel The gift of Counsel endows the soul with supernatural prudence, enabling it to judge promptly and rightly what must done, especially in difficult circumstances. Counsel applies the principles furnished by Knowledge and Understanding to the innumerable concrete cases that confront us in the course of our daily duty as parents, teachers, public servants, and Christian citizens. Counsel is supernatural common sense, a priceless treasure in the quest of salvation. "Above all these things, pray to the Most High, that He may direct thy way in truth." Prayer Come, O Spirit of Counsel, help and guide me in all my ways, that I may always do Thy holy will. Incline my heart to that which is good; turn it away from all that is evil, and direct me by the straight path of Thy commandments to that goal of eternal life for which I long. Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES. Act of Consecration, Prayer for the Seven Gifts

Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter Optional Memorial of St. Bede the Venerable, priest and doctor; St. Gregory VII, pope; St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi, virgin; Bl. Louis-Zephirin Moreau, bishop Today in Catholic History: 1085 Pope Gregory VII died in Salerno (b. ca. 1020/1025). 1261 Pope Alexander IV died (b. ca. 1199). 1879 Saint Patrick's Cathedral in New York City was dedicated. Birthdays: 1606 - Charles Garnier , French Jesuit missionary (d. 1649) 1725 - Samuel Ward , American politician (d. 1776) 1887 - St. Pio of Pietrelcina , (d. 1968) 1898 - Bennett Cerf , American publisher, TV personality (d. 1971) 1921 - Hal David , American lyricist and songwriter 1925 - Jeanne Crain , American actress (d. 2003) 1929 - Beverly Sills , American soprano 1939 - Dixie Carter , American actress 1993 - Dilley sextuplets , American sextuplets In the Blogosphere: Julie D.'s Birthday at Happy Catholic I think she turns 21 today.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. With great thanks, we now present our petitions to the Father: For the special intentions of the Holy Father. For the safety of all our military. For Esther's grandmother, Juanita. For Melanie's special intention. For Dom's nephew. For a successful job search for Bill. For a good Catholic wife for Bob. For an end to abortion and for the closing of all abortion mills, especially for Tiller's late-term abortion mill. For the young men who will be ordained as priests and for those who will become deacons in our diocese. For all previous prayer intentions mentioned here and for those around St. Blog's. Loving Father, You have done wondrous deeds. May we live with wonder before the mystery of Your love. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

The following is this morning's editorial in the Wichita Eagle written by editorial board member Brent Castillo: Gov. Kathleen Sebelius again vetoed a legislative proposal that would have required doctors to report exactly why viable fetuses -- those who could survive outside the womb -- were aborted. The Kansas Senate failed Tuesday to override her veto. At least this time Sebelius didn't muddle her veto message with personal-objection rhetoric, as she did last year. Instead she wrote that "all Kansans support efforts to reduce the number of abortions," but that the proposed law "likely" would have little substantive effect and would violate the privacy of patients. Sebelius is correct that the proposed law may not have directly reduced the number of abortions. But she is blowing more smoke than a western Kansas coal plant on the privacy concern. Privacy would have been protected, because doctors would have assigned numbers to patients and wouldn't subm...

Nick from Literary Compass tagged me for the Title Blending Meme. Here are the rules:Blend two book titles together by using the last word of one title and the first word of the second title . If you want, you can blend the authors' names too. Like this: The Divine Comedy 0f Errors by Dante Shakespeare Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince of Tides by J.K Conroy The Canterbury Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Geoffrey Blume The Screwtape Letters to a Young Poet by C.S. Rilke and of course, The Last Don Quixote by Mario de Cervantes. Now it's your turn. Write as many or as few as you want. Tag six people. Extra credit for blending titles with my other two favorite books, Lord of the Rings and Master and Commander. Extra extra credit if you can find another title that blends with Don Quixote. Don Quixote and the Hobbit by Miguel Tolkien Cradle Don Quixote by Kurt de Cevantes Catch Don Quixote by Heller de Cevantes Don Quixote: 1984 by Miguel Orwell A Prayer for Don Quixote b...

This weeks Catholic Carnival, hosted by Ebeth at A Catholic Mom climbing the Pillars is up. Click here .

SIXTH DAY If Thou take Thy grace away, nothing pure in man will stay, All his good is turn'd to ill. The Gift of Understanding Understanding, as a gift of the Holy Spirit, helps us to grasp the meaning of the truths of our holy religion BY faith we know them, but by Understanding we learn to appreciate and relish them. It enables us to penetrate the inner meaning of revealed truths and through them to be quickened to newness of life. Our faith ceases to be sterile and inactive, but inspires a mode of life that bears eloquent testimony to the faith that is in us; we begin to "walk worthy of God in all things pleasing, and increasing in the knowledge of God." Prayer Come, O Spirit of Understanding, and enlighten our minds, that we may know and believe all the mysteries of salvation; and may merit at last to see the eternal light in Thy Light; and in the light of glory to have a clear vision of Thee and the Father and the Son. Amen. Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to...

Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter Australia: Solemnity of Mary Help of Christians Saint of the Day: St. Vincent of Lerrins, monk and ecclesiastical writer Catholic History: 1218 - The Fifth Crusade leaves Acre for Egypt . 1086 Blessed Victor III (1026?–1087) was enthroned as pope. 1543 Nicolaus Copernicus , Roman Catholic priest, astronomer and scientist, died (b. 19 February 1473, Thorn [Torun], Prussian Poland). Birthdays: 1494 - Pontormo , Italian painter (d. 1557) 1941 - Bob Dylan , American singer and songwriter 1944 - Patti LaBelle , American singer 1967 - Carlos Hernández , baseball player

Today, May 23, is the anniversary of the death of Fr. Emil Kaupan, which took place in 1951. Father Kaupan, a chaplain in the U.S. Army, gave his life serving God in the Korean War. Father Kapaun, was born in Pilsen, Kansas in the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas on Holy Thursday, April 20, 1916. He was the first child of Enos and Elizabeth (Hajek) Kapaun and was of Bohemian (Czech) ancestry. Nearly everyone in the area spoke Bohemian (Czech). Emil was raised in the Catholic faith and even from the time he was a young boy, he knew that he wanted to be a priest. As a young boy, he pretended he was a priest and "played Mass" at home with his younger brother. He was ordained as a Priest for the Diocese on June 9, 1940 and became an assistant Pastor at his home parish in Pilsen. However, it was in World War II that he found his true calling - to minister to the spiritual needs of the soldiers in the US. Army. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944. As a 2nd Lieutenant, he ...

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. With great thanks, we now present our petitions to the Father: In thanksgiving for all our blessings, especially for the grace and perseverance to love and support others with our prayers. For the special intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace, especially for an end to violence in the Gaza Strip and for peace in Iraq. For a successful job search for Bill. For a good Catholic wife for Bob. For an end to abortion and for the closing of all abortion mills, especially for Tiller's late-term abortion mill. For the conversion of all those who are trapped in the darkness of the culture of death. For the conversion of Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius and all pro-death politicians. In reparation for all sins against life. For the young men who will be ordained as priests and for those who will become deacons in our diocese. For all previous prayer intentions mentioned here and for all those intentions around St. Blog...

FIFTH DAY Light immortal! Light Divine! Visit Thou these hearts of Thine, And our inmost being fill! The Gift of Knowledge The gift of Knowledge enables the soul to evaluate created things at their true worth--in their relation to God. Knowledge unmasks the pretense of creatures, reveals their emptiness, and points out their only true purpose as instruments in the service of God. It shows us the loving care of God even in adversity, and directs us to glorify Him in every circumstance of life. Guided by its light, we put first things first, and prize the friendship of God beyond all else. "Knowledge is a fountain of life to him that possesseth it." Prayer Come, O Blessed Spirit of Knowledge, and grant that I may perceive the will of the Father; show me the nothingness of earthly things, that I may realize their vanity and use them only for Thy glory and my own salvation, looking ever beyond them to Thee, and Thy eternal rewards. Amen. Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to...

Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter Saint of the Day: ST. JOHN BAPTIST ROSSI Today in Catholic History: 1430 - Joan of Arc is captured by the Burgundians while leading an army to relieve Compiègne. (See Siege of Compiègne .) 1498 - Girolamo Savonarola is burned at the stake, in Florence, Italy, on the orders of Pope Alexander VI 1533 - The marriage of King Henry VIII to Catherine of Aragon is declared null and void. 1555 - Paul IV becomes Pope. Today's Birthdays: 1729 - Giuseppe Parini , Italian writer (d. 1799) 1875 - Alfred P. Sloan , American long-time president and chairman of General Motors (d. 1966) 1910 - Margaret Wise Brown , American author (d. 1952) 1974 - Ken Jennings , American game show contestant

Click to enlarge. Take Your Faith to A Whole New Level! Dear young person ages 19-30, The time is drawing nearer for the Summer Session in Princeville, IL with the Brothers of St. John. The Summer Session is comprised of four elements: the hiking/camping trip; the Philosophy Session; the Theology Session; and the Silent Retreat . Participants may participate in any of the above activities, or two of them, or three of them. We simply need to know in advance in order to organize our guesthouse. June 6 - 10th - Hiking Trip - 5 Days of Hiking & Rock Climbing June 10 - 24th - Eagle Eye Session - Two week study of the study and existence of God and its impact on friendship June 24th - 30th - Silent Retreat - A Five day silent retreat on the gospel of St. John preached by the Brothers of St. John Sign up for one part or for all of them! For more information, go here. We know that many of you are interested in coming! Great! Please spread the word and please let us know BEFORE MAY 28TH if...

Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter or the Optional Memorial of Saint Rita of Cascia Saint of the Day: St. Rita of Cascia: Religious, Patron of Desperate Causes Today in Catholic History: 337 Constantine the Great , the Roman emperor who first legalized Christianity throughout the empire, died (b. 27 February 272). 1377 - Pope Gregory XI issues five papal bulls to denounce the doctrines of English theologian John Wycliffe . 1533 The first Augustinian friars arrived in Mexico. 1541 A conference at Regensburg (Ratisbon) between three Catholic and three Protestant theologians attempting to reunite the two churches ended in failure after a month of sessions. 1542 Pope Paul III (1468–1549) called the Council of Trent to deal with the Reformation and renewal in the church. Today's Birthdays: 1859 - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle , British physician and writer (d. 1930) 1914 - Vance Packard , American author (d. 1996) 1927 - Michael Constantine , American actor 1934- Peter Nero , American ...

The Speaker of the House in Kansas, Melvin Neufeld , who claims to be pro-life, is stonewalling all of the good and willing pro-life hearts in the legislature who are willing to stand up for the Truth and for the unborn children. Please pray for a miracle to happen in the next 24 hours to move things forward to change his heart and to allow the truth to be exposed about the horrors that late - term abortionist George Tiller has done and the laws he has broken in Kansas.

If this isn't openly defying the Holy Father and the Magisterium of the Church, I don't know what is. Sure, Pelosi and Mc Carthy have already excommunicated themselves from the Church by their actions, but why is their leader condoning this? We need to continue begging Jesus to send His Holy Spirit so that His creatures will be purified by fire (or whatever else is necessary) and something will be done about this defiant attitude and behavior that some people have toward the Holy Father, the Vicar of Christ on earth. Let's also continue to pray and offer up our sufferings for an end to this evil. I am praying that their consciences will be restored.

Peggy Noonan raises some interesting points here about Fred Thompson . Brownback is looking less appealing to Catholics these days. Giuliani seems to be splitting up the Republican party with his "I hate abortion, but..." I still support people's rights to choose . Ron Paul is definitely in the wrong party. Mike Huckabee is looking more and more appealing to me with his strong pro-life stance. This present lack of any one outstanding candidate in the Republican Party, however, doesn't mean I'm considering voting for the opposition. I would sooner vote for Sponge Bob Square Pants than for Obama or Hillary.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. With great thanks, we now present our petitions to the Father: In thanksgiving for safe travel for Bill and for his two interviews. For the special intentions of the Holy Father. For world peace, especially for an end to violence in the Gaza Strip and for peace in Iraq. For a successful job search for Bill. For the sale of Anne and Ron's home. For healing for Dave who has been diagnosed with stomach cancer. For a young woman who has a stage 3 melanoma. For A. who does not want an abortion, but is being coerced by the father of her baby, who is closed to other options. We pray for the life of this child. For the apostolates of Fr. JM for safe travel, and a fruitful meeting with the bishop. For a special intention. For all previous intentions mentioned here and for those around St. Blog's. Loving Father, You have done wondrous deeds. May we live with wonder before the mystery of Your love. We ask this through Christ Ou...

FOURTH DAY (Monday, 7th Week of Easter) Thou in toil art comfort sweet, Pleasant coolness in the heat, solace in the midst of woe. The Gift of Fortitude By the gift of Fortitude the soul is strengthened against natural fear, and supported to the end in the performance of duty. Fortitude imparts to the will an impulse and energy which move it to under take without hesitancy the most arduous tasks, to face dangers, to trample under foot human respect, and to endure without complaint the slow martyrdom of even lifelong tribulation. "He that shall persevere unto the end, he shall be saved." Prayer Come, O Blessed Spirit of Fortitude, uphold my soul in time of trouble and adversity, sustain my efforts after holiness, strengthen my weakness, give me courage against all the assaults of my enemies, that I may never be overcome and separated from Thee, my God and greatest Good. Amen. Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES. Act of Consecration, Prayer for th...

Optional Memorial of St. Christopher Magallanes, priest and martyr, and his companions, martyrs; Optional Memorial of St. Eugene de Mazenod, bishop (Canada) Today in Catholic History: 996 Pope Gregory V (ca. 970–999; reigned 996–999) crowned Otto III (980–1002) as emperor. 1864 Joseph de Veuster (better known as Father Damien , 1840–1889) was ordained priest in Honolulu. In 1873 at his own request he was sent to a settlement of lepers on the island of Molokai, where he later contracted the disease and died. 1972 Wielding a hammer, Laszlo Toth damaged one of the world's most celebrated sculptures, Michelangelo's Piet à , in the Vatican at Rome. Today's Birthdays: 1850 - Giuseppe Mercalli , Italian priest and volcanologist (d. 1914) 1878 - Glenn Curtiss , American aviation pioneer (d. 1930) 1901 - Sam Jaffe , American film producer (d. 2000) 1917 - Raymond Burr , American actor (d. 1993) 1918 - Dennis Day , American singer and comedian (d. 1988) 1923 - Ara Parseghian , Amer...

Suzanne from Big Blue Wave reports on the latest Planned Parenthood cover-up. Check out this youtube video from Michelle Malkin . Lila Rose is a 18 year-old student investigative journalist at UCLA who posed as a 15 year-old and caught Planned Parenthood in the act of covering up a reported statutory rape. She also discovered that UCLA doesn’t have any support for students who want to continue with the pregnancy. They have 2 abortion doctors but no pre-natal care, no adoption referral service,and no pregnancy support groups. I watched Lila and her attorney being interviewed by Bill O'Reilly on Fox News the other day and Planned Parenthood is really getting nasty about this . (Of course, it might tarnish the wonderful reputation they have and they might lose a few bucks in the process.) You can read the article Lila Rose wrote about the cover-up in her pro--life newspaper The Advocate here. You can also go to Jill Stanek’s blog to read how Planned Parenthood is threatening to su...

I was tagged by Deb at Ukok's Place. “Here are the rules: Each player lists 8 facts/habits about themselves. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning before those facts/habits are listed. At the end of the post, the player then tags 8 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.” 1. I love flying on airplanes as well as watching them at air shows, touring them, especially the really old ones. I would love to learn how to fly someday. 2. I am outdoor person and love nature. I love gardening, bird-watching, nature walks, and identifying the star formations at night. I love boating and fishing,too, but haven't done either in awhile. 3. Listening to music, reading, writing, and watching old movies are my favorite ways of spending time. 4. I enjoy playing the games Scrabble, Jeopardy, Family Feud, and the old Ms. Packman, but haven't a clue about any of t...

Via Esther. What is your favourite image of Our Lady? Wow, there are so many to choose from, but I have always loved Our Lady of Lourdes and Our Lady of Grace. What is your favourite Marian feast? The Feast of the Immaculate Conception What is your favourite Marian hymn/anthem? I have lots of them but my favorite is Ave Maria. I also like Salve Regina a lot. What is your favourite Marian place of pilgrimage? I haven't been on a Marian pilgrimage yet, but would love to go to Lourdes and the other apparition sites in France, as well as Guadalupe. I would also like to go to Medjugore. What is your favourite Marian devotion? The Holy Rosary is my favorite Marian Devotion when it is prayed in a contemplative manner, reverently and slowly, while meditating on the mysteries. I don't like rushing through the rosary. Anyone who is reading this and loves the Blessed Mother is tagged. Related Post: A Pictorial Tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary