Catholic Fire

Today is the feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which recalls Mary's visit with her cousin Elizabeth. This event is also the second joyful mystery of the rosary -- the first being the Annunciation. Elizabeth had been barren all her life, but in the Annunciation, Mary learned that her cousin was miraculously expecting a child in her old age. Upon hearing this good news, Mary fervently desired to share in Elizabeth's joy and serve her during the last part of her pregnancy. So she went "with haste" to visit Elizabeth Both women rejoiced over their good fortune. What wonderful and exciting news they both had to share! I know what it is like to experience the heartbreak of infertility and can only imagine what a joy it would be to experience pregnancy and to share that bond with another woman. God wants all women to experience the beauty and joy of motherhood, even if they are unable to biologically have children. He wants some of us to adopt child...

This week's Catholic Carnival is being hosted by Sarah at Another Day of Catholic Pondering . Sarah begins the Carnival by relating a lesson in humility in her fresh and frank style -- it's something we can all relate to -- and a virtue to grow in this Lent. There are posts on a wide variety of topics this week that I think you will find fascinating, so be sure and stop by for a visit. I can assure you -- you won't be disappointed. Here's a sampling: Adam's Ale brings us " Pessimistically Optimistic " - From the desk of a cautious optimist comes a listing of signs of hope in the modern Church. It really is a very uplifting post! Aggie Catholics (aka Mary's Aggies) brings us " Lent 2008 " - One-stop shop for all your Lent questions -- a very comprehensive and informative post which addresses all your Lenten questions and needs. Kate Wicker brings us " Bath Time " - The love God has for each of us, found amid the bath bubbles and co...