SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #266

And it came to pass that when Jesus was returned, the multitude received him: for they were all waiting for him. And behold there came a man whose name was Jairus: and he was a ruler of the synagogue. And he fell down at the feet of Jesus, beseeching him that he would come into his house: For he had an only daughter, almost twelve years old, and she was dying. And it happened as he went that he was thronged by the multitudes. And there was a certain woman having an issue of blood twelve years, who had bestowed all her substance on physicians and could not be healed by any. She came behind him and touched the hem of his garment: and immediately the issue of her blood stopped. And Jesus said: "Who is it that touched me?" And all denying, Peter and they that were with him said: "Master, the multitudes throng and press thee; and dost thou say, who touched me?" And Jesus said: "Somebody hath touched me; for I know that virtue is gone out from me." And the woman seeing that she was not hid, came trembling and fell down before his feet and declared before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was immediately healed. But he said to her: "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole. Go thy way in peace." As he was yet speaking, there cometh one to the ruler of the synagogue, saying to him: "Thy daughter is dead: trouble him not." And Jesus hearing this word, answered the father of the maid: "Fear not. Believe only: and she shall be safe." And when he was come to the house, he suffered not any man to go in with him, but Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the maiden. And all wept and mourned for her. But he said: "Weep not. The maid is not dead, but sleepeth." And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. But he taking her by the hand, cried out, saying: "Maid, arise." And her spirit returned: and she arose immediately. And he bid them give her to eat. And her parents were astonished, whom he charged to tell no man what was done. (Luke 8:40-56)

PROOFS OF OUR LORD'S DIVINITY: 1. The wonderful cure of the sick woman showed our Lord's Omnipotence; for it could only be a divine power which commanded sickness so imperatively, and restored health to men: "Virtue went out of Him and healed all" (Luke 6:19).--"In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead corporally" (Col. 2:9).
2. This cure also showed forth our Lord's Omniscience. Unobserved, as she supposed, in the midst of the crowd, the poor woman crept up to Him, and touched the hem of His garment. Jesus, however, knew that she had touched Him, and knew, moreover, that the touch had made her whole; but in order that she might not fall into the error of thinking she had been cured by some strange, mechanical, involuntary force, He said aloud: I know that virtue is gone out from Me."
3. The raising to life of the dead maiden showed that Jesus had dominion over life and death, being the Author of life, or, in other words, being God. Truly, indeed, did He say of Himself: "As the Father raiseth up the dead, and giveth life; so the Son also giveth life to whom He will" (John 5:21). Of the real death of the maiden there can be no doubt, because a) all who were in the house knew that she was dead. b) Our Lord knew she was dead, when He said: "Believe only, and she shall be safe." c) The Gospel (Luke 8:55) says explicitly: "her spirit returned." It is, therefore, an undoubted fact that the maiden had already departed this life.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #265

And he saith to them that day, when evening was come: "Let us pass over to the other side." And sending away the multitude, they take him even as he was in the ship: and there were other ships with him. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that the ship was filled. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, sleeping upon a pillow; and they awake him, and say to him: "Master, doth, it not concern thee that we perish?" And rising up, he rebuked the wind, and said to the sea: "Peace, be still." And the wind ceased: and there was made a great calm. And he said to them: "Why are you fearful? have you not faith yet?" And they feared exceedingly: and they said one to another: "Who is this (thinkest thou) that both wind and sea obey him?" (Mark 4:35-41)

STORMS OF LIFE: So it is in all the storms of life. If only we have confidence in God, and ask Him to come to our aid, He will not fail us in the hour of our need. He whom the winds and the seas obey is ever at hand to help those who invoke His name.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

Valentin de Boulogne (ca 1594-1632) or Nicolas Tournier (1590-1638),
Saint Paul Writing His Epistles (1620), oil.
Blaffer Foundation Collection, Houston, TX.

URBIS ET ORBIS

DECREE

Special Indulgences are conceded to faithful
on the occasion of the 2000th anniversary of the birth of St Paul the Apostle

In the imminence of the liturgical Solemnity of the Princes of the Apostles, motivated by pastoral solicitude the Supreme Pontiff intends to provide promptly for spiritual treasures to be granted to the faithful for their sanctification, so that on this pious and happy occasion, from First Vespers of the Solemnity mentioned, they may renew and reinforce with even greater fervour intentions of supernatural salvation, principally in honour of the Apostle to the Gentiles, the 2000th anniversary of whose birth on earth is now approaching.

The gift of Indulgences which the Roman Pontiff offers to the universal Church, truly smoothes the way to attaining a supreme degree of inner purification which, while honouring the Blessed Apostle Paul, exalts the supernatural life in the hearts of the faithful and gently encourages them to do good deeds.

Therefore, this Apostolic Penitentiary, to which the Holy Father has entrusted the task of the preparation and compilation of the Decree on the granting and obtaining of Indulgences that will be valid for the duration of the Pauline Year, benevolently bestows with this Decree issued in conformity with the desire of the August Pontiff, the following graces listed:

I. Each and every truly repentant individual member of the Christian faithful, duly absolved through the Sacrament of Reconciliation and restored with Holy Communion, who devoutly makes a pilgrimage to the Papal Basilica of St Paul on the Ostian Way and who prays for the Supreme Pontiff’s intentions, will be granted the Plenary Indulgence from temporal punishment for his/her sins, once sacramental forgiveness and pardon for any shortcomings has been obtained.

The Christian faithful may benefit from the Plenary Indulgence both for themselves and for the deceased, as many times as they fulfil the required conditions but without prejudice to the norm stipulating that the Plenary Indulgence may be obtained only once a day.

In order that the prayer raised on this holy visit may lead and invite the souls of the faithful to venerate more intensely the memory of St Paul, the following has been established: the faithful, in addition to raising their own supplications before the altar of the Most Blessed Sacrament, each one according to his own devotion, must go to the altar of the Confessio and devoutly recite the Our Father and the Creed, adding pious invocations in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Paul. And may this devotion always be closely united to the memory of the Prince of the Apostles, St Peter.

II. The Christian faithful of the various local Churches, having fulfilled the required conditions (sacramental Confession, Eucharistic Communion, prayers for the Supreme Pontiff’s intentions) and in a spirit of total detachment from any inclination to sin, may benefit from the Plenary Indulgence if they take part devoutly in a sacred function or in a pious public exercise in honour of the Apostle to the Gentiles; on the days of the solemn opening and closure of the Pauline Year, in all the sacred places; on other days specified by the local Ordinary, in holy places dedicated to St Paul and, for the convenience of the faithful, in other places designated by the same Ordinary.

III. Lastly, the faithful prevented by illness or another legitimate and important cause, always in a spirit of detachment from any inclination to sin, with the intention of fulfilling the usual conditions as soon as possible, will also be able to obtain the Plenary Indulgence, as long as they spiritually join in a Jubilee celebration in honour of St Paul, offering their prayers and sufferings to God for Christian unity.

In order that the faithful may more easily share in these heavenly favours, may the priests approved by the competent ecclesiastical authority for hearing confessions prepare promptly and generously to receive them.

This Decree is effective for the whole of the Pauline Year. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary.

Given in Rome, at the Offices of the Apostolic Penitentiary, 10 May, in the Year of the Incarnation of the Lord 2008, on the eve of Pentecost.

Cardinal James Francis Stafford
Major Penitentiary

Fr Gianfranco Girotti, O.F.M. Conv.
Titular Bishop of Meta Regent

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #264

And there came down a storm of wind upon the lake: and they were filled and were in danger. And they came and awaked him, saying: "Master, we perish." But he arising, rebuked the wind and the rage of the water. And it ceased: and there was a calm. And he said to them: "Where is your faith?" (Luke 8:23-25)

THE STORM OF TEMPTATION: There arise storms in the lives of individuals also, when sufferings and temptations assail them. Sometimes a person seems in danger of sinking, i. e. of sinning and losing eternal life. But God is near him, with His help, grace and consolation. St. Bernard says about this: "Though the world should rave and Satan rage, though the flesh should rebel, I will still hope in Thee, O my God; for who has ever hoped in Thee and been confounded?"

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

MARK MALLETT

- SPIRITUAL FOOD FOR THOUGHT -

Finding Joy

THE YEAR OF ST. PAUL
(June 2008 - June 2009)

IT can be difficult to read the writings on this website at times, particularly the Seven Year Trial which contains rather sobering events. That is why I want to pause and address a common feeling that I imagine several readers are dealing with right now: a sense of depression or sadness over the present state of things, and those things which are coming.

We must always remain rooted in reality. Indeed, some may think that what I’ve written here is alarmist, that I have lost my bearings and become a darkened, narrow-minded creature who dwells in a cave. So be it. But I repeat for all those who will listen: the things I have been warning about are coming toward us at the speed of a freight train. We are just beginning to feel it in the Western nations during this Year of the Unfolding. Two years ago, I wrote in Trumpets of Warning - Part IV a message of warning that there are coming events which will create exiles. This is not a word for the future, but a present reality for many souls from lands such as China, Mynamar, Iraq, parts of Africa, and even areas of the United States. And we see the words of Persecution unfolding almost daily as major governing bodies continue to not only push for "gay rights," but aggressively move toward silencing those who disagree with them… this, while apes are beginning to gain the same rights as humans—one of the tenets spoken of in the coming False Unity.

It is just the beginning of the hard labor pains.

But above all, we must keep our eyes fixed on the Great Mercy which God is going to flood the earth with at some point during this present Storm.

THE ROOT OF OUR SADNESS

When Jesus told the rich man that he should go and sell everything, he went away sad. We may feel the same way; we see that our lifestyles are going to change, perhaps drastically in the coming years. Herein may lie the root of our sadness: the thought of having to lose our comforts and let go of our little "kingdom."

Whether or not times of radical change are upon us, Jesus has always demanded of His disciples a renunciation of things:

Everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple. (Luke 14:33)

What Jesus means here is a spirit of detachment. It is not a question so much of our possessions, but where our true love and devotion lies.

Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. (Matt 10:37-38)

God, in fact, wants to bless us. He wants us to enjoy His creation and provide for all our needs. Simplicity and poverty of spirit do not mean destitution or squalor. Perhaps we need to reboot our hearts today. To again "seek first the kingdom of heaven" rather than the kingdom of earth. Mow the lawn. Landscape the yard. Paint the house. Keep things in good order.

But be willing to let it all go.

This is the state of soul required of the disciple of Jesus. In a word, such a soul is a pilgrim.

REJOICE! AGAIN I SAY REJOICE!

Rejoice this day for whatever good health you have. Give thanks this day for your life which will exist for all eternity. Give thanks for the gift of Jesus’ Presence in the Blessed Sacrament in our cities and towns. Give thanks for the flowers and green leaves and warm summer air (or cool winter air, if you live in Australia). Revel in His creation. Watch the sunset. Sit beneath the stars. Recognize His goodness written in the universe.

Bless the Lord for His infinite love for you. Bless Him for His mercy which has so patiently waited for us to repent. Give thanks to God in all your circumstances, good and bad, for His Divine Will orders all things for the good. And who knows? Maybe this is your last day on earth, and you are worried and anxious about the "end times" for nothing. Indeed, we are commanded to have "no anxiety at all" (Phil 4:4-7).

I pray for my readers each day. Please pray for me too. May we all be signs of joy to a world stumbling in sorrows. This is the year of St. Paul. Let us invoke his intercession and soak in the wisdom, knowledge, and hope of his anointed words…

Concerning times and seasons, brothers, you have no need for anything to be written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night. When people are saying, "Peace and security," then sudden disaster comes upon them, like labor pains upon a pregnant woman,and they will not escape. But you, brothers, are not in darkness, for that day to overtake you like a thief. For all of you are children of the light and children of the day. We are not of the night or of darkness. Therefore, let us not sleep as the rest do, but let us stay alert and sober. Those who sleep go to sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. But since we are of the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet that is hope for salvation. For God did not destine us for wrath, but to gain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live together with him. Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do. (1 Thess 5:1-11)

FURTHER READING:

• Sacrament of the Present Moment

• The Duty of the Moment

• Prayer of the Moment

Published in: DAILY JOURNAL, PARALYZED BY FEAR | on June 27th, 2008 |

- Is Medjugorje Real? Facts and First-Hand Accounts

 by Mark Miravalle

Introduction

The reported apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Bosnia-Herzegovina (former Yugoslavia) have attracted the attention of the world and approximately 30 million pilgrims. Since June 24, 1981, six children began to report daily visits from the "Queen of Peace" and several of the "visionaries" continue to report receiving a daily apparition from the Mother of Jesus over 25 years later.

Is Medjugorje real? Are these authentic apparitions of the Virgin Mary? What is the official position of the Catholic Church about their authenticity? Could these simply be the fraudulent deception of hysteric children (now adults) for reasons of attention and personal gain?

Read this article here:
http://www.motherofallpeoples.com/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=1389

Prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Feast Day - June 27

O Mother of Perpetual Help, grant that I may ever invoke thy most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying. O Purest Mary, O Sweetest Mary, let thy name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, O Blessed Lady, to help me whenever I call on thee, for, in all my needs, in all my temptations I shall never cease to call on thee, ever repeating thy sacred name, Mary, Mary.

O what consolation, what sweetness, what confidence, what emotion fill my soul when I pronounce thy sacred name, or even only think of thee. I thank God for having given thee, for my good, so sweet, so powerful, so lovely a name. But I will not be content with merely pronouncing thy name: let my love for thee prompt me ever to hail thee, Mother of Perpetual Help.

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #263

And there came down a storm of wind upon the lake: and they were filled and were in danger. And they came and awaked him, saying: "Master, we perish." But he arising, rebuked the wind and the rage of the water. And it ceased: and there was a calm. And he said to them: "Where is your faith?" (Luke 8:23-25)

THE CHURCH MILITANT, with the successor of St. Peter at the helm, is typified by Peter's little ship threatened with destruction by the storm. The Church has to contend with many adversaries; but our Lord is in her midst, and if at times He seems to slumber, He still knows the sufferings and dangers which threaten His Church, and all at once He will arise, command the storm by His Almighty word, and once more give back peace and liberty to His Church.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

Celebrating Life Around the World!

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #262

And it came to pass on a certain day that he went into a little ship with his disciples. And he said to them: "Let us go over to the other side of the lake." And they launched forth. And when they were sailing, he slept. And there came down a storm of wind upon the lake: and they were filled and were in danger. And they came and awaked him, saying: "Master, we perish." But he arising, rebuked the wind and the rage of the water. And it ceased: and there was a calm. And he said to them: "Where is your faith?" Who being afraid, wondered, saying one to another: "Who is this (think you), that he commandeth both the winds and the sea: and they obey him?" (Luke 8:22-25)

THE OBJECT OF THIS MIRACLE was 1. to increase and strengthen the faith of the apostles; 2. to teach the apostles and their successors that they, as fishers of men, would be exposed to many persecutions and afflictions; but that Jesus would always be with them to hush the storm.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

Our Lady's Latest Monthly Message

Our Lady's Message of May 25, 2008 Our Lady Queen of Peace of Medjugorje’s May 25, 2008 Monthly Message “Dear children! In this time of grace, when God has permitted me to be with you, little children, I call you anew to conversion. Work on the salvation of the world in a special way while I am with you. God is merciful and gives special graces, therefore, seek them through prayer. I am with you and do not leave you alone. Thank you for having responded to my call.” • Click Here to Listen to the Radio WAVE broadcast about the May 25th Message • You Can Click Here to Download the Radio WAVE broadcast about the May 25th Message Encourage all you know to sign up for MejList FREE in order to be kept updated on the latest and crucial information on Medjugorje. Mej.com must have your donation to stay online. Who is behind mej.com? What is mej.com? ©SJP Lic. mej.com/Caritas • This may be reproduced and redistributed provided that the content is copied in its entirety, including graphics, pictures, captions, etc. and credit given to mej.com and Caritas of Birmingham. Also, permission is granted to quote from blogs, news sources, or other websites as long as it is referenced to mej.com/Caritas of Birmingham.

Last Updated ( Wednesday, 25 June 2008 )

Catholics Protest: Over 14,000 Complaints call Jerry Springer Show Blasphemous

HANOVER, Penn., June 25 /Christian Newswire/ -- Members of the American TFP and its America Needs Fatima campaign are leading a protest against performances of "Jerry Springer - The Opera in Concert" outside the New Stage Collective in Cincinnati, where the production is scheduled to begin, on June 26, from 6-8 p.m.

"If blasphemy is considered art and sacrilege is called entertainment, then society is heading for a cultural and moral meltdown," said America Needs Fatima executive director Robert Ritchie.

According to Cincinnati City Beat, the TFP peaceful protest "began inundating the theater with letters, telephone calls and postcards from around the nation -- more than 14,000 so far. On some days, New Stage received about 1,000 pieces of mail." Alan Patrick Kenny, artistic director of the production, which many call blasphemous, said: "I certainly didn't expect the Postal Service to show up with a crate of mail every day."

The group's web site explains why Catholics are offended by the show: The crucifixion is mocked. The Eucharist is trashed. The Mass is ridiculed. Jesus is introduced as "the hypocrite son of the fascist tyrant on high." He wears a diaper, is fat and effeminate and later admits: "Actually, I am a bit gay." And the Annunciation is described as a rape.

"The 'opera' defies description in detail because it contains so much profanity and blasphemous content," Ritchie said. "The TFP protests such an indecent portrayal and finds objectionable the fact that God and Christ are made to say the most filthy and absurd things. The profanity-laced production considers nothing sacred."

In London, the show's debut was the subject of a libel suit for defaming Christians. When it aired on the BBC, it drew more than 60,000 complaints.

The American TFP held a protest prayer vigil, attended by hundreds of concerned Catholics, when the offensive production first staged at Carnegie Hall in New York last January.

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #261

And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that the ship was filled. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, sleeping upon a pillow; and they awake him, and say to him: "Master, doth, it not concern thee that we perish?" (Mark 4:37-38)

THE WEAK FAITH OF THE DISCIPLES was shown by their thinking that our Lord, when asleep, was powerless to help them. They forgot that His Godhead cannot sleep, but is ever awake and watchful over His servants.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

Mark Mallett

—Spiritual Food For Thought—

Seven Year Trial - Part V

Christ in Gethsemane, by Michael D. O’Brien

FEAST OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

The Israelites did what displeases the Lord; the Lord gave them over for seven years into the hands of Midian. (Judges 6:1)

THIS writing examines the transition between the first and second half of the Seven Year Trial.

We have been following Jesus along His Passion, which is a pattern for the Church’s present and coming Great Trial. Furthermore, this series aligns His Passion to the Book of Revelation which is, on one of its many levels of symbolism, a High Mass being offered in Heaven: the representation of Christ’s Passion as both sacrifice and victory.

Jesus enters Jerusalem, preaching boldly, cleansing the temple, and seemingly winning over many people. But at the same time, there are false prophets among them, confusing Christ’s identity in the minds of many, claiming that Jesus is just a prophet, and plotting His destruction. From what I can tell, it is three and a half days from the moment of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem until the Passover.

Then Jesus enters into the Upper Room.

Read the rest of the article here: http://www.markmallett.com/blog/?p=715

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #260

And behold a great tempest arose in the sea, so that the boat was covered with waves, but he was asleep. And they came to him, and awaked him, saying: "Lord, save us, we perish." (Matt. 8:24-25)

THE TWO NATURES IN JESUS CHRIST: As Man He was tired and slept; as God He commanded the winds and the waves.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #259

And behold a great tempest arose in the sea, so that the boat was covered with waves, but he was asleep. And they came to him, and awaked him, saying: "Lord, save us, we perish." And Jesus saith to them: "Why are you fearful, O ye of little faith?" Then rising up, he commanded the winds, and the sea, and there came a great calm. But the men wondered, saying: "What manner of man is this, for the winds and the sea obey him?" (Matt. 8:24-27)

THE DIVINITY OF OUR LORD: "Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!" exclaimed the witnesses of this wonder. This great miracle was, indeed, a fresh and clear proof of our Lord's divine power. But in order to appreciate the greatness of the miracle you must take into account following circumstances. After a violent storm it is usually many hours before the movement of the waves subsides, and the surface of the sea regains its smoothness. But in this case the calm followed immediately on our Lord's words. Man never feels himself so small, so powerless, so pitiable as when he is in conflict with the uncontrolled powers of nature. Then those who think themselves strongest recognize their weakness and cry out to God for help. But Jesus arises and commands the raging elements, and they obey Him. "O Lord of hosts," cries the Psalmist, "who is like to Thee! Thou rulest the power of the sea, and appeasest the motion of the waves thereof" (Ps. 88:9).

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

[MaryVitamin] St. Thomas More

Mary Vitamin   Topic: For the Feast of St. Thomas More (6/22)   Quote: St. Alphonsus di Liguori "When Margaret, the daughter of Sir Thomas More, met her father on the way to death, she could only exclaim, 'O Father! Father!" and fell fainting at his feet. Mary, at the sight of her Son, on His way to Calvary, did not faint, no for it was not becoming." Glories of Mary, (Tan Books), 441.   Meditation: Reading from the Book of Job 2:10 "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord! We accept good things from God; And should we not accept evil?"   Resolution: What could be more Marian than the humble acceptance of gifts from God or the patient acceptance of trials? Whatever befalls me today whether a happy gift or the gift of a trial, I will try to see the loving Will of God, just as Our Lady would.    Marian Vow: The third Order of St. Francis is known as the Order of Penance: "But behold, the instruments, the trumpeter, and the executioners, have already passed; she raised her eyes, and saw, O God! A young man covered with blood  and wounds from head to foot, a wreath of thorns on His head, and two heavy beams on His shoulders."  Father Faber, At the Foot of the Cross (Tan Books)   I give this resolution to the Blessed Virgin Mary.   Thanks be to God for graces received.   Related sites: Castle of the Immaculate & AirMaria

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SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #258

The Parable of the Net full of Fish

"Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a net cast into the sea, and gathering together of all kinds of fishes. Which, when it was filled, they drew out, and sitting by the shore, they chose out the good into vessels, but the bad they cast forth. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall go out, and shall separate the wicked from among the just. And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matt. 13:47-50)

THE SEPARATION AT THE LAST JUDGMENT: The parable of the net full of good and bad fish conveys the same lesson as the parable of the wheat and the cockle. We became members of the Church when we were baptized; but our Baptism by no means ensured our reception into heaven. If we do not keep our baptismal vows and remain in a state of God's grace, we shall be finally rejected, and cast out of the net like a bad fish.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

The Incorrupt Body of St. Padre Pio...amazing! He died in 1968, 40 years ago!

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[MaryVitamin] Padre pio

Mary Vitamin-Padre Pio Topic: Why were so many people drawn to Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotundo?   Quote: "St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, in saying his hundred Rosaries a day, offered evidence that all the graces that were drawing souls to him from every part of the world, that were enlightening, converting, saving, and sanctifying them, were graces that he was obtaining from the divine Mediatrix by means of the Rosary." Father Stefano Manelli, FI, Devotion to Our Lady (Academy of the Immaculate), 55.    Meditation: What does Mediatrix mean?  "After the Incarnation of the Word within her virginal body, Our Lady then began to accomplish her first act, an act of mediation. She went to visit St. Elizabeth bringing Jesus into that home in order to instill sanctifying grace into the soul of John the Baptist while still being carried within his mother's womb. Our Lady brings Jesus to us and takes us to Jesus. That is why we call her Mediatrix between Jesus and ourselves, between grace and souls."  Father Stefano Manelli, FI, Devotion to Our Lady, 55.   Resolution: Our Lady's favorite prayer is the Rosary. She asks for it time and time again. I will try to find the time to say more than one Rosary a day. But, for today, I will start with just one more Hail Mary than my usual Rosary. I will be encouraged by the example of Padre Pio's devotion to the Holy Rosary and the effects it had.   Marian Vow: "And as Our Lady carried Jesus about, we, by our Rosaries may keep Him in our affections when we go home, or through the streets, and amongst men, and to our place of work. And we can, so to speak, bring Him forth by acts of sacrifice, by giving and edifying example of charity, of frugality, of angelic purity, of humility and of detachment – virtues of which the Joyful Mysteries should remind us." Father Manelli, FI , Devotion to Our Lady    I give this resolution to the Blessed Virgin Mary.   Thanks be to God for graces received.   Related sites: Castle of the Immaculate & AirMaria

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God alone saves us

VATICAN - AVE MARIA by Mgr Luciano Alimandi -

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) -

"Look at the birds in the sky. They do not sow or reap or gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they are? Can any of you, however much you worry, add one single cubit to your span of life? And why worry about clothing? Think of the flowers growing in the fields; they never have to work or spin; yet I assure you that not even Solomon in all his royal robes was clothed like one of these. Now if that is how God clothes the wild flowers growing in the field which are there today and thrown into the furnace tomorrow, will he not much more look after you, you who have so little faith?" (Mt 6, 26-30).

The words of Jesus through the centuries reach our day with irresistible power for all hearts open to His Truth. How often we observe the birds in the sky or the flowers in the fields and wonder at the beauty of their colours and precise details of their shape, "planned" in every detail. Yet, distracted as we are, we often fail to think that those colours and original shapes, that life in miniature in front of us, is one of the most powerful lessons creation offers about the Creator who is also our God: He looks after each and every one of us!

Jesus recalls this and says: "look how your heavenly Father feeds the birds and clothes the grass in the fields". If we take these words seriously, it would be enough to see a sparrow pick up a crumb of bread to realise: even that crumb of bread is provided by Divine Providence and if that crumb was organised by the infinite God, then there is nothing He would not do for us who are called to live eternally with Him?

If God gave such beautiful colours to his flowers, all the more will he adorn with supernatural beauty a soul who entrusts itself to Him, and so lives of His grace? Sacred Scripture tells us clearly that the root of all man's suffering, is that he wanted to do without God, he chose to ignore the fact the entire universe exists thanks to Divine Providence. Man's pride has gone as far as to make him think he can replace of God, in areas such as bio-ethics when the latter ignores the laws laid down by the Creator: "The progress of science and technology in the area of bio-ethics is transformed into a threat when human beings lose the sense of their own limitations and, in practice, claim to replace God the Creator" (Benedict XVI, Discourse 13 May 2006).

Creation however cannot follow man in this rebellion against the work of God and continues to serve the Creator. This is why the Saints, for example Saint Francis of Assisi, had great respect for creation, animals, the elements of nature, fire, water. In everything they gave praise to God and thanked Him for his fidelity despite the infidelity which men spread everywhere.

To man who offends the Creator, nature continually responds with an example of obedience to God's laws. Occasionally nature appears to "rebel", not against God but against man who rebels against the Lord.

Man feels powerless, unable to dominate, but dominated by violent natural forces. How many examples in the history of the Church demonstrate that tragedies can be avoided only with God's grace: for example when the lava of a volcanic eruption stopped on the edge of a town, or a tempest ceased before it was too late. All these "miraculous" cases accomplish the words of the psalm "our help is in the name of the Lord who created heaven and earth" (Ps 123,8), spoken by God's humble people who turn to Him with trust.

The Holy Father Benedict during his recent pastoral visit to Santa Maria di Leuca and Brindisi, urged the whole Church to turn with trust to Mary that God may protect the world "from storms which threaten the faith and true values": "From this part of Europe which juts out into the Mediterranean Sea in between the East and the West, we turn once more to Mary, our Mother, to ask her to "show us the way" – Odegitria –, giving us Jesus, the Way of peace. We ideally invoke her with all the different titles with which she is venerated in the Shrines of Puglia, and especially here in this ancient port, we pray to her the "port of salvation " for every individual and for the whole of humanity. May her maternal protection always defend your city, your region, Italy, Europe and the world from storms which threaten the faith and true values; may she help the young generations put out to sea without fear, to face with Christian hope the voyage of life. Mary, Port of salvation, pray for us!"

(Benedict XVI, Angelus, 15 June 2008).

(Agenzia Fides 18/6/2008)

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #257

The Parable of the Pearl

"Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls. Who when he had found one pearl of great price, went his way, and sold all that he had, and bought it." (Matt. 13:45-46)

THE PARABLE OF THE PEARL also signifies the great happiness of possessing the true faith and being in a state of grace. He who really and laboriously strives after truth and salvation will obtain them. "There exists, however, only one pearl without price, for there exists only one Truth. And even as the wise merchant who bought this pearl at the cost of all that he possessed, alone knew how rich he had become by the possession of it, so only those who belong to the Church and possess grace know how rich they are. Those who have not the faith are ignorant of its value, and have no conception how rich those are who possess it!" (St. Irenaeus.)

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

Holiness is Available to All who Venerate Me in the Eucharist (5)

By "Anne," a Lay Apostle

Message Five

Dear readers, The following presents the initial messages from Jesus to Anne regarding his own Eucharistic presence. The messages are both sublime and powerful, and we share them with you. Anne, a visionary from Ireland, has received permission from her local ordinary, Bishop Leo O'Reilly, for the distribution of messages which she receives from Jesus, God the Father, Our Blessed Mother, the angels and saints. – Ed.

August 21, 2003

Jesus

Today I wish to direct attention, once again, to the hectic pace of this modern world. Children, come and sit with Me in the Sacrament of the Eucharist. I am in every tabernacle throughout the world. Think of one now, and picture Me there. Do I have a television? A radio? Of course not. Yet I am truly there. "What does He do?" you might ask. I tell you, My child, I am not bored. I think about you. I worry if you are far away. I suffer if you have chosen worldly paths and you are endangering your soul. I am sad each day if there is no hope of a visit from you. I ask My Father to have mercy on you. I direct My angels to watch over you in the hope that someday you will return to Me. My child, how often during your day do you think of Me? You are thinking of Me now, as you read these words. So while your mind is resting upon Me, let Me tell you that I love you. I want only your happiness. I can help you in everything. I can solve your problems and heal your wounds. My child, come and sit before the Eucharist in any tabernacle. My graces and blessings will flow out to you. I want you to sit and soak in the silence. You may close your eyes there and I will fill your precious head with a stream of heavenly thoughts. I have so much to share with you. I have seen every injury you have experienced. I longed to comfort you. Let Me comfort you now.

Again I entreat you to eliminate as much noise from your life as possible. Noise is not conducive to holiness and while you might have to tolerate noise in the world, you can diminish noise in your home and in your car. In silence comes peace, little ones. You will find Me in silence. I am waiting for you and I have never once turned My gaze away from you. You must know that I forgive you for everything. I want only your love.

Souls find this concept difficult. Because your modern world has scoffed so often at selfless love that souls are suspicious. "Why does Jesus love me? I am not very lovable," they think. Indeed, many souls in this world do not like even themselves. So they find it hard to imagine that anyone, particularly the God of All, could desire their well-being and love them completely. I tell you, dear child, that the Truth cannot be denied. I am the Truth. And I love you beyond anything you can imagine. My only wish is to bring you back to Me, where I might protect you. Do not be afraid. You will not be punished for your misdeeds. Come back to Me now and I will pardon your sins. We will proceed together as though these sins had never been committed. Sins leave a certain residue on a soul. Come to Me now, My beloved child, and with a heavenly breath, I will blow away the residue of sin so your soul proceeds in joy and newness . I am your God. I love you. That will never change.

For further information regarding the Lay Apostolate of Jesus Christ the Returning King, or to purchase Heaven Speaks booklets, please contact Direction for Our Times on the Web at www.directionforourtimes.com, or mail inquiries to the following address: 9000 West 81st St., Justice, IL 60458, U.S.A.

SCRIPTURE COMMENTARY #256

The Parable of the Treasure hidden in the field

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in a field. Which a man having found, hid it, and for joy thereof goeth, and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." (Matt. 13:44)

THE GREATEST OF TREASURES: This treasure signifies the graces of Christianity, which far surpass all the riches of this world. He who has found the great treasure of faith and grace is fortunate indeed. He rejoices, and guards his treasure jealously, and is willing to give up everything rather than lose the faith and grace of God.

[From 'A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture' by Bishop Knecht, D.D.]
(1899 Douay-Rheims Bible)

PAULINE YEAR STARTS JUNE 29!

The Year of St. Paul opens June 29, 2008 (and continues through June 29, 2009). Here is a sung, Scriptural novena to help you prepare for the year, and for the feasts of St. Paul throughout the year, especially his conversion.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBbMNNFUUi0

Effective and affective harmony with the Pope

St. Peter in the ship of the Church

VATICAN - WORDS OF DOCTRINE by Rev Nicola Bux and Rev Salvatore Vitiello -

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - Masochism or self-mutilation, has marked the life of the Church for two millennia. The first was Judas, who thought it might be a good idea to make the person and the message of Jesus Christ more acceptable to worldly powers. Perhaps he did not have the time to come to know and to accept the mystery of God made man for mankind.
Something similar happened following the Second Vatican Council, and after two thousand years of reflection on Jesus Christ and investigation: Karl Rahner especially took a "turning", - which proved to be a pause and a transformation - distancing himself from earlier epochs, convinced as he was that up to then theological reflection had overlooked, or worse, forgotten the reality of man.

In what did that "turning" consist ?
To be brief: the origin of human discussion about God and divine revelation was not God Himself, instead it was man's questions about himself. Consequently, theology must always speak of man and his salvation, pose queries about the human race and the world. We know this theory met with considerable criticism: I mention that of Leo Scheffczyk, eventually a cardinal and who died a few years ago.

That position did not remain merely a "theological thought", it became a practice which has slowly permeated many areas of doctrine and ecclesial life. One of the most clamorous consequences was the manner in which sacramental doctrine is understood: today the Sacrament is no longer lived as coming down from on high, from God, instead it has become participation in something the Christian already possesses. The conclusion reached by Häuβling is that man in the Sacraments participates in an action which no longer really correspond to his need to be saved.

The response to this 'sacrament' theory, consequential to the anthropological change in a certain type of theology, was provided by Joseph Ratzinger, when he had to face liturgical deviation which tended towards separation from an act of God which is prior to every human thought and deed; tending towards separation from "before" Jesus Christ. Discussion about God and indeed even worship of God, is possible only because He addressed man first with His revelation.

The Liturgy is none other than the continuation of this Revelation, as Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI wrote in his book "Jesus Nazareth". Without the "before", God's descent in the Incarnation and later in the Liturgy, theological discussion and Liturgy can be alienation or a human projection.

Look at the proliferation of essays on liturgical anthropology, which go as far as reducing Sacramental signs, now preferably referred to as symbols, in today's weak sense of evocative but empty signs.

The situation is serious, not only because all this is taught even at a few theological faculties (as well!), but because it would seem impossible to engage in frank and scientifically equipped debate, without being censured.

Seeing that today the rage is to look to the 'East' – at least for the sake of ecumenical correctness – it must be said that for Eastern theology the "anthropological turn" was a wrong turn, and it was taken by Western theology.

The sole fundamental subject of all theology, at all times, is and must remain, the Incarnation of the Word, the human-divine Beginning, who came into the world "for us men and for our salvation". Mankind, detached from God, has no chance of survival.

Persisting and concentrating almost all our discourses only on man, as it has happened, means God is left out of the conversation.

Guiding us along the timeless path of Catholic doctrine, Pope Benedict XVI is directing attention to God's "before". This is indispensable, if the boat of Peter is to keep steady in the truth and secure in peace. (cfr Collect Prayer, Mass of Pope Leo the Great).

(Agenzia Fides 17/6/2008)

SAINT EXPEDITUS VIDEO

St. Expeditus, Patron of Urgent and Just Causes

His Feast Day is April 19.

St. Expeditus, a Saint for those who have an urgent, pressing problem, now has a DVD that retells his live and work.

St. Expeditus, a Saint for those who have an urgent, pressing problem, now has a DVD that retells his life and work.

Although his birthplace is unknown, he is most likely an Armenian who was martyred during the persecutions of the 4th century. A soldier in the Imperial Roman army, Expeditus was in charge of an entire legion during the reign of Diocletian who, in 303 AD, had him killed.

During Expeditus' last battle, his men lost hope of victory, and remembering that Christians raised their hands to heaven to ask God for help, they did likewise. At that moment, the sky opened and a strong wind arose. In the ensuing confusion, Expeditus' army was able to defeat their enemies.

After this event, many of the soldiers converted to Christianity, including Expeditus. However, before his profession of faith, a crow arrived and said, "Tomorrow." Expeditus did not listen to the crow, and converted immediately.

Because of this, St. Expeditus is usually depicted holding a cross with the word "Hodie," Latin for today, in his right hand and a crow under his right foot, symbolizing the defeat of evil.

The DVD, "St. Expeditus, Patron of Just and Urgent Causes," was launched by an Argentinian production company, San Jose.

The documentary includes testimonies from pilgrims who go to his shrine in Buenos Aires on the 19th of every month, in remembrance of his martyrdom on April 19, to ask him for help and thank him for graces received.

Watch a short video about St. Expeditus here:

http://www.h2onews.org/_page_videoview.php?id_news=769#&lang=en

Holiness is Available to All who Venerate Me in the Eucharist (4)

By "Anne," a Lay Apostle

Message Four

Dear readers, The following presents the initial messages from Jesus to Anne regarding his own Eucharistic presence. The messages are both sublime and powerful, and we share them with you. Anne, a visionary from Ireland, has received permission from her local ordinary, Bishop Leo O'Reilly, for the distribution of messages which she receives from Jesus, God the Father, Our Blessed Mother, the angels and saints. – Ed.

August 20, 2003

Jesus

Today I speak to you about unity. There is great disunity in the world. This disunity has permeated most modern life but I speak in a particular way of disunity within the family. I intend to return a sense of unity to every family that will allow Me to do so. My children, when there is family unity, the members experience a steady flow of love. My peace, always available, draws the family through the inevitable times of difficulty and members of such families possess a calm and steady bearing. Prayer will bring unity to a family in a swift manner. If a family makes a decision to make family prayer a priority, I can bestow many graces to that home. Families devoted to Our Mother already understand this connection between prayer and family unity. I want this for all families. Make a firm decision on when your family will pray together. If something interferes with this time, do not take that as a sign that your prayer commitment was a mistake. Simply reschedule to a more suitable time. I, your Jesus, am watching. I understand all. If you tell Me that your family never has enough time together to pray, I will help you to find that time. It is possible you are all too busy and should eliminate certain activities. My children of this busy world must understand the very significant difference between entertainment and duty. An obligation to meet with friends is not as important as an obligation to family prayer, and it is possible that your priorities require examination. Do not fear this examination because I will help you. Together, We will examine your life and see where We can schedule time for you to draw your family together in prayer. Believe Me when I tell you that you will be abundantly blessed in this decision. I will put unity in your family.

Unity is also important for the purpose of identity. Children, in particular, must understand that they are expected to view life and respond to life differently because they are Christians. This begins in your home. My youngest children of this world do not understand their inheritance. With many of My adult children, it is more serious. They have rejected their inheritance. So our goal is twofold. We must educate Our youth and call out in love to Our adults. Look at your brothers and sisters in the world. Many are experiencing disunity in their families and walk in bitterness. They do not appeal to Me for help. They simply accept that this is how people behave. I assure you, My children, Christians do not behave this way. I intend to bring families together. From this secure love source, children will learn responsibility to others and to God. I intend for this to be the norm again. Will you help Me? Let us agree today, that each family will respond to this message by praying together. Start small, if you must, with one Our Father. Then advance gradually. I would like families to pray the Holy Rosary. Let that be your goal. Devotion to My Mother will advance a family to Me very quickly. Devotion to My Mother will heal many deep wounds. My Mother is united with Me in this work and brings many, many souls back to Me. Pray now, as a family, and rejoice, as I restore unity to your home.

For further information regarding the Lay Apostolate of Jesus Christ the Returning King, or to purchase Heaven Speaks booklets, please contact Direction for Our Times on the Web at www.directionforourtimes.com, or mail inquiries to the following address: 9000 West 81st St., Justice, IL 60458, U.S.A.