Catholic Fire

September 23 is the Feast of St. Padre Pio, also known as St. Pio of Pietrelcina (1887-1968).  He was a priest, mystic, and stigmatist, and Spiritual Father to many. Here are ten bits of advice to help us grow spiritually from this powerful saint: Prayer is the best weapon we have; it is the key to God’s heart. You must speak to Jesus not only with your lips, but with your heart. In fact on certain occasions you should only speak to Him with your heart. A thousand years of enjoying human glory is not worth even an hour spent sweetly communing with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Pray, hope and don't worry. Anxiety doesn't help at all. Our Merciful Lord will listen to your prayer. Love the Madonna and pray the rosary, for her Rosary is the weapon against the evils of the world today. All graces given by God pass through the Blessed Mother.”  Be souls of prayer. Never tire of praying, it is what is essential. Prayer shakes the Heart of God, it obtains necessar...

With the current economic situation we are in, companies are laying off employees and some are even closing their doors. Many people are facing unemployment. For some, this may be a first time event, for others, it may be a repeat event, which adds insult to injury. Dealing with unemployment can be quite stressful and even traumatic, especially during the Christmas season. Here are some tips for practical strategies that can help: 1. Review your separation package: At the termination meeting, your employer should provide you with a folder of information containing specific forms and instructions to review. Review these forms carefully and do the following: • Ask about severance pay, accrued vacation, overtime and sick pay, pension benefits, and eligibility for unemployment insurance. • Severance packages may be negotiable. You have nothing to lose by asking for more than what’s offered. • Request information on continuation of health and life insurance benefits. Your employer, if the ...