Amore Infinito

     I enjoy listening to uplifting, peaceful music while working, gardening, cooking, walking, reading. Beautiful music sparks a dimension of color and flavor within even the most ordinary task.

     Amore Infinito, songs inspired by the poetry of Saint John Paul the Great and sublimely interpreted by the rich intonations of Placido Domingo, is nothing less than a musical feast gracefully illuminating the ears, mind heart and soul. Placido Domingo's personal experience of profound inspiration by our dear Saint John Paul II's poetry is clearly expressed through this melodic offering. This wonderful CD can be purchased at Amazon.com.

Padre Pio and Vocations

     Carlon Careli's movie, "Padre Pio Miracle Man", is an unforgettable artistic presentation of a life of holiness, humility and unwavering devotion to Jesus and Mary. The tapestry of this great saint's life was intricately and colorfully woven, contrasting divine mysticism and complex familial relationships. He lived out his desire to model his interpersonal interactions after the mercy of Jesus, even if it brought severe opposition from his enemies.
     He realized his religious vocation early in life.  With great humility he alleviated the suffering of many with miraculous gifts of healing and bore the stigmata of Jesus. Padre Pio drew the attention of numerous souls longing to repair broken relationships with Christ. He bravely confronted hypocrisy and sinfulness with ruthless candor. He endured calumniation without any desire for retaliation. He responded to ridicule and scepticism with unconditional forgiveness. He embraced holy poverty and physical hardship. He was obedient to authority, even when it caused him pain and inconvenience. He valiantly suffered physical infirmity and recurrent demonic attacks. Finally, Padre Pio abandoned the adulation of worldwide followers in favor of submission to the directives of Holy Mother Church.

     There are many opportunities to obey Jesus' call to vocations: the priesthood, religious vocations (sisters, brothers), lay associates, service as a deacon, marriage, parenthood, widowhood, consecrated single life and a multitude of diocesan and parish ministries. Discernment is a spiritually challenging and rewarding experience, requiring simultaneous alertness to the will of God and resistance to the deceptions of the evil one. Many are the overlooked or misunderstood vocations-lay and religious. We must never underestimate the spiritual merit of our God given vocation, regardless of our state in life. Padre Pio was a humble saint who recognized the importance of the holy acts of even "the least"  of Our Lord's children. This movie is a powerful encouragement to all who face obstacles and disillusionment in their vocation journey with Jesus.  Carlon Careli's film, "Padre Pio Miracle Man" can be purchased at Ignatius Press.

Hymn Filled Dialogue

 

   Unencumbered by a wordy prologue, the reader is instantly drawn into the holy thoughts and courageous acts of Saint Francis. Felix Timmerman's classic novel, The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis, vividly depicts Saint Francis' living hymn filled dialogue with Our Blessed Lord. Like an antiphon, Saint Francis' mystical response to the complex events of his historic time were composed by his relationship with Jesus. Enjoy this inspiring portrayal of a great saint which may be purchased @ Ignatius Press.

So Much to Learn

     Jesus promised that He would be with us always. He gives Himself to us in the Most Holy Sacrament. We are strengthened by the joyous gift of drawing ever closer to Him throughout our lives. There is so much to learn about the Blessed Sacrament. 

     In Mr. Vinny Flynn's book, The Seven Secrets of the Eucharist, there are so many beautiful treasures that have been forgotten or underappreciated over the years. Inspiration to return to a more Jesus centered life abounds. Understanding this fundamental keystone of our Catholic Faith is of incalculable value. There is so much hope found within the Seven Secrets of the Eucharist! This spiritually uplifting and enlightening work can be purchased in book or CD form @ the Divine Mercy Gift Shop.

Good Father Gus

The Beatitudes bear the Heavenly reflection 

of God's unconditional Love.

     Ordained a Roman Catholic priest in Rome in the year 1886, Venerable Augustus Tolton overcame the stigma of being an ex slave. Facing multiple obstacles with true patience and charity, "Good Father Gus" perservered, following God's will with a heart filled with Christ's love. He joyfully shared hope with the faithful whom Our Lord placed under his care. His story is one of heroic virtue fueled by deep love for Jesus. Father Tolton responded to cruelty and persecution  with unconditional love. Listen to the inspiring story of his life as presented on the CD From Slave to Priest @ Lighthouse Catholic Media. Learn more about the cause for his sainthood here @ The Cause for Canonization of Father Augustus Tolton.

Kindness, Patience

Compiled by the late Father F.X. Lasance,  

Kindness and Patience are filled 

with healing wisdom. 

These timeless and invaluable 

meditation/prayerbooks 

can be purchased @ Fraternity Publications.

Para La Virgen de Guadalupe

Enjoy the musical celebration of the feast of 

Our Lady of Guadalupe.

 "El que canta ora dos veces~He who sings prays twice"

This beautiful recording can be purchased here @:

Para Ti Virgencita de Guadalupe