Serious

     In this energetically presented CD, Jeff Cavins teaches us how to free ourselves from the spiritually corrosive potency of unforgiveness. We learn here about the folly of insisting that everyone live up to our expectations. Mr. Cavins explains that the infinite gravity of hatred and guarding resentment cannot be underestimated. We are reminded, through the parable of the debtor, how seriously Jesus regards forgivenss.

     The emotional and spiritual torment of mentally replaying offenses is contrasted with the life giving holy beauty of reconciliation. Christ's forgiveness of His persecutors remains the hallmark of Christian forgiveness. It is this act of forgiveness that all Christians must practice in our daily lives. This presentation is outstanding in its relevance for all Christians, Catholic and non-Catholic, as we aspire to walk ever faithfully with Jesus.

Jesus Loves and Forgives

     The  collection Blessed Catherine Emmerich's visions about Mary Magdalene portrays one aspect of how Jesus loves and forgives all of us. These excerpts from Blessed Catherine Emmerich's divinely inspired writings: The Life of Jesus Christ, reveal the enduring patience and compassion of Our Blessed Lord for all of us sinners. We are also reminded in these writings of the immense supernatural power of intercessory prayer. 

     Our loved one's, and our own, conversion and reversion to the fullness of our Catholic faith are miraculous events which are cause for great hope and rejoicing. Even in the face of apparent hopelessness, there is never a reason to give up praying for our loved one's return to the glorious embrace of Our Eucharistic Savior, Jesus Christ.  After all, Our Blessed Mother Mary intercedes for ALL of her children without ceasing. Her powerful intercession guards and protects all of us as we daily strive to walk faithfully with her Son. His love and  forgiveness for Mary Magdele, as depicted in theses beautiful writings are gifts we receive daily. What a tremendous cause for gratitude ~ Praises be to Jesus forever!

Remedy for the "Blues"

     Presented by a Catholic Psychiatrist Deacon, the "Anger and Forgiveness CD published by Lighthouse Catholic Media" is filled with compassionate admonitions and spiritual enlightenment. Within a Scriptural context, the spiritual nature of anger and its sinful characteristics are explained. Dr. Bob McDonald does a wonderful job of measuring the current secular treatment of anger with Jesus' perfect and holy teachings.

     The listener is also offered a proven method of dealing with "blue" feelings which emerge from recurrent negative and angry thoughts. Dr. McDonald suggests that at these "low" times, an effective remedy is to go to a quiet place and for fifteen minutes praise God, with gratitude and love, It works!     

Rosary Promises

           This was originally posted @ mommynovenas.org 

on October 7, 2013

     Our Blessed Mother's powerful intercession for us is clearly demonstrated in her fifteen promises to Christians who pray the Rosary. The first of these promises is that whoever prays the Rosary faithfully will receive Signal Graces. Signal Graces are those little clues from the Holy Spirit that tell us we are on the right path, or unexplained nudges from our Guardian Angels that keep us out of danger. They may seem to be "coincidences". It is most pleasing to think of these Signal Graces in the former category.  There are events which serve to advance our achievement of something we desire. 

        But what about the times we don't "get what we want?" It's much more difficult to accept the job we didn't get or the lost relationship as a blessing. Yet, if we take a close look at the life of our Blessed Mother, we can see that our Heavenly Father's plan is perfect. Mary suffered many trials and sorrows. She did not enjoy material wealth or social popularity. Yet, her sacrificial, loving acceptance of God's will is the perfect example of how we are to live as Christians. Following Mary's example can only lead us directly into the heart of Jesus. Following His will, no matter how difficult, can only lead to eternal life in Heaven with Him. 

     Many signal graces, sent so mercifully to us by Our Blessed Lord, remain unnoticed. We are so busy trying to solve our problems on our own that we are not listening to Him. Reciting the beautiful Rosary prayer in a state of peaceful surrender to Our Lord opens our hearts to His perfect guidance.

     Faithful Catholics have written much about Mary's Rosary and signal graces. 

     Saint Louis de Montfort's writings, which come from his devotion to Our Lady, explain Mary's supernatural maternal influence in our lives. The Secret of the Rosary, and more of de Monfort's works can be found here: 

The Secret of the Rosary

True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Secret of Mary

15th Promise~To Jesus through Mary~2nd Promise

Mystical Poems of Divine Love

     We enjoyed reading these mystical poems of Divine Love written by Saint John of the Cross. This Saint suffered poverty, ignominy, rejection and incarceration, all for his love of Jesus. He allowed any love of the mundane within his soul to die. He endured  the resultant prolonged sensation of isolation and spiritual darkness. 

     Rejecting the world's comforts, he valiantly trusted in the eternal beauty of God's love. An affordable version of this bilingual edition can be purchased here, @ biblio.com. 

Advent is Coming!

     Catholic observation of Advent will soon assist us in our aspirations to share in the holiness and love of Jesus and Mary. The contemplative melodies of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate capture the heart and mind, helping us to focus on the immense significance of our Savior's miraculous incarnation. 

     Unforgettable and serene, the selections on this recording help elevate the heart mind and soul encouraging prayer and thanksgiving. 

Love and Trust

  I love the story of Tobias, his wife, son and in laws and their trusting relationship with the archangel Rafael. They remain faithful to God throughout several frightening, life threatening events. They risk their lives to obey God. How beautiful is the example of the father as spiritual leader of his family, instructing his child in both word and example. How powerful is this father's example of courage as he performs acts of mercy. The family remains united in faith, not swayed by blindness or death. They obediently trust in the angel sent to them by God. They accept His will, even when there is every mortal probability of sorrow. They pray faithfully, hearts filled with loving thanksgiving, even though they have not yet experienced a favorable outcome. Finally, they rejoice in God's mercy upon them.

      As Catholics, we are greatly blessed by the Deuterocanonical accounts of courage, obedience and faith. The prayers of these trusting followers of God merit recitation in our own lives. We may benefit from these writings in a viety of translations of the Bible. It is a privilege to share these accounts with persons of every faith.