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Plenary indulgence announced for the Year of Faith. Make sure you take part often in this act of mercy from the Church!

October 4, 2012, 12:28 pm
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Vatican City, Oct 5, 2012 (CNA/EWTN News) - The Holy See announced Oct. 5 that Pope Benedict XVI has granted a plenary indulgence for the Year of Faith, which will last from Oct. 11, 2012 to Nov. 24, 2013.

The decree announcing the indulgence was signed Sept. 14 by Cardinal Manuel de Castro, Major Penitentiary, and Bishop Kryzsztof Nykiel, Regent, of the Apostolic Penitentiary. The penitentiary is the part of the Roman Curia responsible for indulgences and governing the sacrament of confession.

One plenary indulgence per day may be gained by an individual, which they can use for themselves or apply to a soul in purgatory. The indulgence remits the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven.
During the Year of Faith, there are four means of gaining an indulgence.
Click for entire story
  
The Pope also requested the faithful for Prayer at the start of his pilgrimage to Loreto October 4th. The pope said he was following in the footsteps of Bl. John XXIII, who entrusted Vatican II to Our Lady at the Shrine of Loreto on October 4th, in 1962!


Benedict XVI's pilgrimage to Loreto marks the 50th anniversary of that journey and the opening of the Council. The Pope asked everyone in Wednesday's General Audience to join his prayers "entrusting to the Mother of God the main ecclesial events we are preparing to experience: the Year of Faith, and the Synod of Bishops on the New Evangelization."

Below are excerpts taken from his Homily given at the shrine....
Click for entire text of the Pope's Homily....

Blessed John XXIII's 
Act of entrustment of 
Vatican Council II


"On October 4, 1962, Blessed John XXIII also came as a pilgrim to this Shrine to entrust to the Virgin Mary the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, due to begin a week later. On that occasion, with deep filial devotion to the Mother of God, he addressed her in these words: “Again today, and in the name of the entire episcopate,"I ask you, sweetest Mother, as Help of Bishops, to intercede for me as Bishop of Rome and for all the bishops of the world, to obtain for us the grace to enter the Council Hall of Saint Peter’s Basilica, as the Apostles and the first disciples of Jesus entered the Upper Room: with one heart, one heartbeat of love for Christ and for souls, with one purpose only, to live and to sacrifice ourselves for the salvation of individuals and peoples.Thus, by your maternal intercession, in the years and the centuries to come, may it be said that the grace of God prepared, accompanied and crowned the twenty-first Ecumenical Council, filling all the children of the holy Church with a new fervor, a new impulse to generosity, and a renewed firmness of purpose” (AAS 54 [1962], 727).

Benedict XVI continues:
"Fifty years later, having been called by divine Providence to succeed that unforgettable Pope to the See of Peter, I too have come on pilgrimage to entrust to the Mother of God two important ecclesial initiatives: the Year of Faith, which will begin in a week, on 11 October, on the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, and the Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, which I have convened this October with the theme “The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith”.

 "We must return to God, so that man 
may return to being man" Pope Benedict XVI

This Shrine of Loretto, built around Mary's earthly home, preserves the memory of the moment when an angel of Lord came to Mary with     the great announcement of the Incarnation, and she gave her reply. This home is a physical, tangible witness to the greatest event in our history, the Incarnation; the Word became flesh and Mary, the handmaid of the Lord, is the privileged channel through which God came to dwell among us!"
Here at Loreto fifty years ago, Blessed John XXIII issued an invitation to contemplate this mystery, to “reflect on that union of heaven and earth, which is the purpose of the Incarnation and Redemption”, and he went on to affirm that the aim of the Council itself was to spread ever wider the beneficent impact of the Incarnation and Redemption on all spheres of life (cf. AAS 54 [1962], 724). This invitation resounds today with particular urgency. In the present crisis affecting not only the economy but also many sectors of society, the Incarnation of the Son of God speaks to us of how important man is to God, and God to man. Without God, man ultimately chooses selfishness over solidarity and love, material things over values, having over being. We must return to God, so that man may return to being man.

With God, even in difficult times or moments of crisis, there is always a horizon of hope: the Incarnation tells us that we are never alone, that God has come to humanity and that he accompanies us!
Dear brothers and sisters, on this pilgrimage in the footsteps of Blessed John XXIII – and which comes, providentially, on the day in which the Church remembers Saint Francis of Assisi, a veritable “living Gospel” – I wish to entrust to the Most Holy Mother of God all the difficulties affecting our world as it seeks serenity and peace, the problems of the many families who look anxiously to the future, the aspirations of young people at the start of their lives, the suffering of those awaiting signs or decisions of solidarity and love. I also wish to place in the hands of the Mother of God this special time of grace for the Church, now opening up before us. Mother of the “yes”, you who heard Jesus, speak to us of him; tell us of your journey, that we may follow him on the path of faith; help us to proclaim him, that each person may welcome him and become the dwelling place of God. Amen! Click for entire text of the Pope's Homily....

               




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The Year of Faith--Togethor Let us seek the Face of Christ!

October 11, 2012, 1:47 pm
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Pope inaugurates Year of Faith 
and invites all to rediscover 
the Second Vatican Council!



The Opening Mass of Year of Faith

If today the Church proposes a new Year of Faith and a new evangelization, it is not to honour an anniversary, but because there is more need of it, even more than there was fifty years ago! And the reply to be given to this need is the one desired by the Popes, by the Council Fathers and contained in its documents. Even the initiative to create a Pontifical Council for the promotion of the new evangelization, which I thank for its special effort for the Year of Faith, is to be understood in this context. Recent decades have seen the advance of a spiritual "desertification". In the Council’s time it was already possible from a few tragic pages of history to know what a life or a world without God looked like, but now we see it every day around us. This void has spread. But it is in starting from the experience of this desert, from this void, that we can again discover the joy of believing, its vital importance for us, men and women. In the desert we rediscover the value of what is essential for living; thus in today’s world there are innumerable signs, often expressed implicitly or negatively, of the thirst for God, for the ultimate meaning of life. 

"The “door of faith” (Acts 14:27) is always open for us, ushering us into the life of communion with God and offering entry into his Church. It is possible to cross that threshold when the word of God is proclaimed and the heart allows itself to be shaped by transforming grace. To enter through that door is to set out on a journey that lasts a lifetime. It begins with baptism (cf. Rom 6:4), through which we can address God as Father, and it ends with the passage through death to eternal life, fruit of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, whose will it was, by the gift of the Holy Spirit, to draw those who believe in him into his own glory (cf. Jn 17:22). To profess faith in the Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – is to believe in one God who is Love (cf. 1 Jn 4:8): the Father, who in the fullness of time sent his Son for our salvation; Jesus Christ, who in the mystery of his death and resurrection redeemed the world; the Holy Spirit, who leads the Church across the centuries as we await the Lord’s glorious return."  Porta Fidei,1


The Year of Faith and Vatican II


Benedict XVI, in Porta Fide also commented on the Year of Faith and the Second Vatican Council. "In some respects, my venerable predecessor saw this Year as a “consequence and a necessity of the post -conciliar period”  fully conscious of the grave difficulties of the time, especially with regard to the profession of the true faith and correct interpretation. It seemed to me that timing the launch of the Year of Faith to coincide with the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council would provide a good opportunity to help people understand that the texts bequeathed by the Council Fathers, in the words of Blessed John Paul II, “have lost nothing of their value or brilliance. They need to be read correctly, to be widely known and taken to heart as important and normative texts of the Magisterium, within the Church's Tradition ... I feel more than ever in duty bound to point to the Council as the great grace bestowed on the Church in the twentieth century: there we find a sure compass by which to take our bearings in the century now beginning. I would also like to emphasize strongly what I had occasion to say concerning the Council a few months after my election as Successor of Peter:'if we interpret and implement it guided by a right hermeneutic, it can be and can become increasingly powerful for the ever necessary renewal of the Church.' " Porta Fidei,5
The Year of Faith
 Seeking the Face of Christ

Hear my voice when I call, Lord;
    be merciful to me and answer me.
 My heart says of you, “Seek his face!”
    Your face, Lord, I will seek. Psalm 27:7-8


Today is the first day of the Year of Faith, and also is the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. . . (Vatican II) and the twentieth anniversary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. During the Year of Faith, Catholics are asked to study and reflect on the documents of Vatican II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church so that they may deepen their knowledge of the faith.

The Year of Faith is a year of Grace concept which is inspired and based upon the Apostolic Letter ‘Novo Millenio Ineunte’ by the late Blessed Pope John Paul II—recalling the events in Rome during the Jubilee Year of 2000 and his challenge to the whole Church to “contemplate the face of Christ” and to “start afresh” from Christ.

Benedict XVI in his Apostolic letter, Porta Fidei elaborates on this theme: "During this time we will need to keep our gaze fixed upon Jesus Christ, the “pioneer and perfecter of our faith” (Heb 12:2): in him, all the anguish and all the longing of the human heart finds fulfillment. The joy of love, the answer to the drama of suffering and pain, the power of forgiveness in the face of an offense received and the victory of life over the emptiness of death: all this finds fulfillment in the mystery of his Incarnation, in his becoming man, in his sharing our human weakness so as to transform it by the power of his resurrection. In him who died and rose again for our salvation, the examples of faith that have marked these two thousand years of our salvation history are brought into the fullness of light." Porta Fidei,13






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Memorial of Blessed John Paul II added to U.S.A Calendar! & JPII "The Spark from Poland"

October 22, 2012, 12:44 pm
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Memorial of Blessed John Paul II Added To U.S. Liturgical Calendar 
US Bishops Receives Approval from Congregation for Divine Worship
WASHINGTON, D.C., OCT. 22, 2012 
(Zenit.org).- The Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship has approved insertion of the optional memorial of Blessed John Paul II in the proper calendar of the dioceses of the United States. It also has provided the proper liturgical texts for observance of the Memorial in the Mass and Divine Office.
The U.S. bishops last November voted overwhelmingly to request the addition of the popular pope, who reigned for 27 years, into the U.S. liturgical calendar.
The Office of Readings includes an excerpt from Pope John Paul's homily at his inauguration as pope in 1978, when he stressed "Do not be afraid, Open, I say open wide the doors for Christ." The message became one of the signature statements of his papacy.

The biographical piece in the Divine Office highlights the pope's pastoral visits around the world, his participation in the Second Vatican Council, and his zeal for families, young people and the sick. It also noted his promotion of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the new Code of Canon Law. ....Entire Zenit Article....

For the Liturgical prayers and readings for the Feast of Blessed John Paul II, go to http://www.usccb.org/about/leadership/holy-see/pope-john-paul-ii/memorial-of-blessed-john-paul-ii.cfm

Beatification  of Bl. John Paul II
 A Joyful Event for the Church 
and All Who Loved Him!

Bl.  John Paul II  the Fatima Pope was Beatified on May 1, 2011 which also was the first Sunday after Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday.  Benedict XVI explained that the date was chosen for the beatification because it was on the eve of Mercy Sunday that his earthly life ended. "Those who knew him, those who esteemed and loved him, cannot but rejoice with the Church for this event."  In St. Peter's basilica,the tomb for Bl. John Paul II is set in one of the altars, in the chapel of St. Sebastian where his mortal remains are reposed today. 


Pope John Paul II alluded at the consecration of the Shrine of Merciful Love in 1981  making note of  the "special task" assigned to him by God" in the present situation of man, the Church and the world."  He urged us "to implore God's mercy for humanity in this hour of history ... to beg for it at this difficult, critical phase of the history of the Church and of the world as we approach the end of the second millennium." (Rich in Mercy 15)
The "Spark from Poland" 
that will prepare the World 
for my Final Coming!

We are all worried about our country especially now when we face such a critical election with concerns for our economy and for the erosion of our  religious freedoms. St. Faustina  also worried and prayed for Poland: "Jesus, I beg You for my homeland; protect it against the assaults of its enemies"(Diary of St. Faustina, 119).  

Jesus responds to  St. Faustina as she prayed:
"I bear a special love for Poland, and if she will be obedient to My will, I will exalt her in might and holiness. From her will come forth the spark that will prepare the world for My final coming"(Diary, 1732).   
At the time it seemed as though this prayer of hers had failed.  Poland was conquered, fractured by the Nazi regime and later she was swallowed up by Communism.  It seemed her prayer to Our Lord was not answered.  However, the beginning of  the answer to her prayer and Poland’s  deliverance from Communism began on October 16, 1978. Cardinal Karol Wojtyła, Archbishop of Kraków was elected Pope, taking the name John Paul II.  

This event had an electrifying  unifying effect  for Poland.  Even under Communist rule, Poland  was one of the most devoutly Catholic nations in Europe. The election of a Polish pope the spark from Poland?(Diary, 1732).was the beginning of her political  freedom. God has honored Poland by lighting on her soil “the spark" giving us Bl. John Paul II  who  traversed the entire globe building up the kingdom of God so that it was preached in every land and nation!


Divine Mercy and the End Time

The exact timing is the Lord's But of that day and hour no one knows, not the angels of heaven, but the Father alone Mat. 24:36  It seems that we have reached a certain critical phase of the end times that  had its beginnings with the Church.


 
It's  ironic that many of the most religious people of Christ's time  who were actively practicing their religion and  even though they awaited the promised Messiah  they were not able to recognize Him when He came. They even condemned him to death on the cross.  The Pharisees, devoted to their rules, and rituals that over the years, had become so important that their real meaning had been lost. They talked a lot of about God, but none of it had touched their hearts.  They were not living the way He wanted them to live.  “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me" (Is 29:13).  

Mary Mother of Mercy 

Mary Mother of all graces and Mother of Divine Mercy, Defend us from our enemies and receive us at the hour of our death. O Mary Mother of Mercy, Implore for us the Mercy of your Son! 
 
Our Lady also spoke to St. Faustina: “You have to speak to the world about His great mercy and prepare the world for the Second Coming of Him who will come, not as a merciful Savior, but as a just Judge.  Oh how terrible is that day! Determined is the day of justice, the day of divine wrath. The angels tremble before it. Speak to souls about this great mercy while it is still the time for granting mercy. (Diary635).

The Words of the Our Lady to St Faustina are similar to the Fatima Message.  There is a sense urgency in them.  Like the message of Fatima, it is the same urgency of the Gospel, "The time is accomplished, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent, and believe the gospel.” Mark1:15

"If my requests are heeded, Russia will be converted, and there will be peace; if not, she will spread her errors throughout the world, causing wars and persecutions of the Church. The good will be martyred, the Holy Father will have much to suffer, various nations will be annihilated. In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph. The Holy Father will consecrate Russia to me and she will be converted, and a period of peace will be granted to the world."

Our Enemy is not the Evil Around us,
Our Real enemy is  the Sin Within us!

Are we not faced with a similar circumstances as we await the final coming of the Lord?  Paul writes in second Thessalonians: “The coming of the lawless one whose coming is according to the working of Satan, in all power, and signs, and lying wonders, And in all seduction of iniquity to them that perish; because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them a strong delusion, that they should believe a lie. In order that they all may be judged who did not believe the truth but took pleasure in wickedness"2 Thessalonians 2:10-12
      The Church's Final Trial              

 675“Before  Christ's second coming the Church must pass through a final trial that will shake the faith of many believers. The persecution that accompanies her pilgrimage on earth will unveil the "mystery of iniquity" in the form of a religious deception offering men an apparent solution to their problems at the price of apostasy from the truth. The supreme religious deception is that of the Antichrist, a pseudo-messianism by which man glorifies himself in place of God and of his Messiah come in the flesh.”Read more:Catechism of the Catholic Church and the last days                               
                                                                           
Unceasingly the Church Implores
 God's  Mercy for Everyone!
April 30, 2000 View of  St. Peter's Square Institution of Feast of  Divine Mercy



Speak to the world about My mercy ... It is a sign for the end times. After it will come the Day of Justice. While there is still time, let them have recourse to the fountain of My mercy.(Diary848)  Read more
 
Words of Blessed John Paul II: “At no time and in no historical period -- especially at a moment as critical as our own -- can the Church forget the prayer that is a cry for the mercy of God amid the many forms of evil which weigh upon humanity and threaten it. "The more the human conscience succumbs to secularization, loses its sense of the very meaning of the word "mercy," moves away from God, and distances itself from the mystery of mercy, the more the Church has the right and the duty to appeal to the God of mercy with loud cries!”  June 7, 1977  Divine Mercy Shrine in Lagiewniki, Poland .(Dives in Misericordia, n. 15).

John Paul II--You Live On! You Live On!

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Tell Everyone that Our Lord has Entrusted the Peace of the World to the Immaculate Heart of Mary!" Sr. Lucia of Fatima

November 21, 2012, 2:27 pm
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Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Patroness of the United States of America Protect our nation from all harm, physical and spiritual. 

The President's re-election means that Christians are going to suffer in America. Maybe we aren't feeling it yet; but it will come. And when it does come, due to our free will, we will have a choice to make. We can choose to stand with God, our Church, our Faith, and our conscience, or, we have have the ability to choose, to turn our backs and go "forward" by following legislation that is increasingly anti-God, anti-life, and anti-Christian. 

Stand up once more and be counted. Support those who are fighting the HHS Mandate  through legislative means with your prayers and penances!  Join this new Cause calling for Prayers and Sacrifices!  Remember in Luke Jesus answering some present in the crowd at that time who told Him about the Galileans who were slaughtered and Pilate had mixed their blood with their sacrifices. "Do you think that these Galileans were sinners above all the men of Galilee, because they suffered such things? No, I say to you: but unless you also do penance, you shall all likewise perish. Luke 13: 2-3 Let's fight a spiritual war with spiritual weapons. "An evil spirit of this kind is only driven out by prayer and fasting." Matthew 17:21 Mark 9:29 

Fatima on World Peace
The recent escalation of violence in the Middle East should be a warning and awaken us all to return and honor the requests of Our Lady at Fatima for Peace in the World"Say the Rosary every day to obtain peace for the world. And after each decade say the following prayer: 'O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of Hell, and lead all souls to Heaven, especially those who have most need of Thy mercy.'"


 "Wars are a punishment for 
the sins of mankind."

The Fatima message is a call for men to give up sinful practices which grieve God and draw down His chastisements on the world, and to make reparation for them. Commenting on Our Lady's request for penance, Sr. Lucia wrote: "The part of the last apparition which has remained most deeply imprinted on my heart is the prayer of our heavenly Mother begging us not to offend any more Almighty God, Who is already grievously  offended "

"I have come to warn the faithful to amend their lives and ask pardon for their sins. They must not continue to offend Our Lord, Who is already too much offended."

 
 Tell everybody! God gives graces through the Immaculate Heart of Mary! Tell them to Plead for Peace from the Immaculate Heart of Mary, for God has entrusted the Peace of the World to Her."

 Jacinta shortly before her death remarked:  
"If men only knew what eternity is, how they would make all possible efforts to amend their lives . . . mortification and sacrifice give great pleasure to Our Divine Lord."

Before Jacinta left to the hospital she said to Lucia: "In a short time now I am going to heaven. You are to stay here and say  to everyone that God wishes to establish in the world the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. . . . Tell everybody that God grants graces through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and that they must ask them from her. Tell them that the Heart of Jesus wishes that by His side should be venerated the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Tell them to ask peace through the Immaculate Heart of Mary; God has placed it in her hands. Oh that I could put into the heart of everybody the flame that I feel burning within my breast and which makes me love so much the Heart of Jesus and the Heart of Mary."


                         (Blue Army Pledge)


Dear Queen and Mother, who promised at Fatima to convert Russia and bring peace to all mankind, in reparation to Your Immaculate Heart, for my sins and the sins of the whole world, I solemnly promise to:
1) Offer up everyday the sacrifices demanded by my daily duty;
2) Pray the Rosary daily while meditating on the mysteries;
3) Wear the Scapular of Mt. Carmel as profession of this promise and as an act of consecration to You,
4) To observe the First Saturday Devotions
       I shall renew this promise often, especially in moments of temptation

 The Fatima Promise
 "In the end my Immaculate Heart will triumph and there will be Peace."
St. Maximilian Kolbe before Mary
 as the Immaculate Conception,
with a prison camp in the background

O Immaculata, Queen and Mother of the Church, I renew my consecration to you for this day and for always so that you might use me for the coming of the kingdom of Jesus into the whole world. To this end I offer you all my prayers, actions and sufferings of this day and  of my life.

           


  Video Clip: "The 13th Day"

The Second Vision Prophecy.  



Help Our Lady convert poor sinners! 

Promote the First Saturday's  requested by Our Lord use this pdf. 1st. Saturday Phamplet and distribute! 
http://sicutincaelo.org/downloads/FSP.pdf


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“Remember thy last end, and thou shalt never sin.”

November 25, 2012, 7:05 am
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Fatima and the Four Last Things
DEATH, JUDGEMENT - HEAVEN OR HELL 
Season of Advent A Time for
Repentance & Spiritual Conversion

Advent is given to us by the church to remind us ofour need for repentance and for spiritual conversion a perfect time to read and meditate on the 4 last things.  Advent is not just to prepare us for the anniversary of the birth of Jesus (Christmas) when God entered the world as man. More importantly Advent is a time for reflection on the coming of the Lord at the end of our lives and his final coming at the end of time! Modern man is frantically running from the reality of his own death. Poor simple man is tempted to believe he is something that he is not before his peers and even before God!Advent is time to stop and take stock of who God is and who we are as we stand before him.

Michelangelo's- The Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel
One of the best meditations on Death is the Dies Irae hymn a meditation on the Last Judgment, when Christ will come again in glory, no longer granting mercy, but as the Just Judge who will separate the just from the wicked, casting the latter into eternal fire, and welcoming the former to eternal bliss. The hymn closes with a supplication for mercy before the coming of that terrible day.

The video below is Mozart's Rendition of Dies Irea and it is a powerful piece making one tremble at the coming Judgment. the Day of Wrath.  The Gregorian Chant of Dies Irea   on the other hand, is more somber and reflective giving one hope in God's Mercy at that final hour of our own death or his second coming.  This is chanted during Funeral Masses in the Extraordinary form in the Tridentine Mass! Makes one hope to be buried with that Mass and those prayers to follow you into eternity.

Day of wrath, day that will dissolve the world into burning coals, as David bore witness with the Sibyl. How great a tremor is to be, when the judge is to come briskly shattering every grave. A trumpet sounding an astonishing sound through the tombs of the region drives all men before the throne. Death will be stunned and so will Nature, when arises  man the creature responding to the One judging. The written book will be brought forth, in which the record of evidence is contained whence the world is to be judged. Therefore when the Judge shall sit, whatever lay hidden will appear; nothing unavenged will remain.

 O Thou, God of Majesty, nourishing brilliance of the Trinity,  join us with the Blessed.  What am I the wretch then to say? what patron I to beseech? when scarcely the just man be secure. King of tremendous Majesty, who saves those-to-be-saved free, save me, Fount of piety.
Remember, faithful Jesus, because I am the cause of your journey: do not lose me on that day.


Thou has sat down as one wearied seeking me, Thou has redeemed me having suffered the Cross: so much labor let it not be lost. Just judge of the avenging-punishment, work the gift of the remission of sins before the Day of the Reckoning. I groan, as the accused: my face grows red from my fault: spare this supplicant, O God.O Thou, God of Majesty, nourishing brilliance of the Trinity, join us with the Blessed.Thou who forgave Mary the sinful woman, and favorably heard the good thief, hast also given me hope.  My prayers are not worthy, but do Thou, Good God, deal kindly lest I burn in perennial fire.

Among the sheep offer me a place and from the goats sequester me, placing me at Thy right hand. After the accursed have been silenced, given up to the bitter flames, call me with the blest. Kneeling and bowed down I pray, My heart contrite as ashes: Do Thou  care for my end

That sorrowful day, on which will arise from the burning coals Man accused to be judged therefore, O God, do Thou spare him. Faithful Lord Jesus, grant them rest. Amen. O Thou, God of Majesty, nourishing brilliance of the Trinity, join us with the Blessed. Amen

The Message of Fatima & the 4 last things
A Catechesis of Faith & Reaffirmation of Gospel
Mary is the Model Catechist

Our LAdy of Fatima did not ask the permission of the parents of Jacinta, Francisco and Lucia before showing them the vision of hell. Remember that Jacinta was barely six years old!  This reminds us that children do not belong to their parentsthey are only entrusted to them by God. God expects parents to instruct and form them in His ways; to know love and serve Him so that they will have the opportunity to be happy with Him forever in Heaven!  Thus the outrage of abortion. Destroying God's creation in your child that was given to you in order to reflect His image in the world.

The reality of Hell should be taught to children using the same methods our Lady used at Fatima the Model Catechist.  Appealing to their generous hearts by teaching them to help save others from going there. Having this knowledge they will be able tomake the right choices to save themselves from going there as well. Our Lady in showing young children a vision of Hell lead us to understand that children can also go there! Children can and do commit grave sins, even murder. They  have the natural law impressed on their souls so they know right from wrong.  However, we should never under estimate a childs capacity to do good and for self sacrifice. Our Lady at Fatima also showed us how great the heart of a child can become when properly formed! Even to heights of heroic sanctity.

                                            A Vision of Hell
The Ultimate Justice of God
For Unrepentant Sinners

The children saw countless numbers of people who were endlessly falling into the fiery flames.  Our Lady sadly looked upon them as she said "You have seen hell where the souls of poor sinners go. To save them, God wishes to establish in the world devotion to my Immaculate Heart.”And then she told them the secrets of Fatima that are connected with this vision. Material for another post someday.
The Vision of Hell
In the third apparition of July the children were given a vision of hell the ultimate Justice of God for unrepentant sinners. Our Lady pointed to the earth and the light from her hands the light from her hands penetrated the earth and opened the ground so that the children could peer into the depths and could see hell. Lucia describes  it for us: "As our Lady spoke she opened Her hands once more, as She had done during the two previous months. The rays of light seemed to penetrate the earth, and we saw as it were an ocean of fire. Plunged in this fire were demons and souls in human form, like transparent burning embers, all blackened or burnished bronze, floating about in the conflagration, now raised into the air by the flames that issued from within themselves together with great clouds of smoke, now falling back on every side like sparks in a huge fire, without weight or equilibrium, and amid shrieks and groans of pain and despair, which horrified us and made us tremble with fear. (It must have been this sight which caused me to cry out, as people say they heard me.) The demons could be distinguished (from the souls of the damned) by their terrifying and repellent likeness to frightful and unknown animals, all black and transparent.This vision lasted only a moment, thanks to our good Heavenly Mother who,  at the first apparition, had promised to take us to Heaven. Without this promise, I think we would have died of fright.

The reality eternity was already impressed on this young mind and the possibility of some souls spending an eternity in hell! This thought impressed Jacinta the most. She often called Lucia and Francisco she would ask: "Are you praying with me? It is necessary to pray much to save souls from hell! How sorry I am for sinners who go there and burn forever like wood in a fire! If I could only show them hell so they would not go there!"  Even after she was taken sick, she would get out of bed to bow her head to the floor, and pray as the Angel had taught for the glory of God, and in reparation for the outrages, sacrileges and indifference by which He is offended in the tabernacles throughout the world and for the conversion of poor sinners.

Photo taken after the Vision of Hell note the anxious expressions

Many years later Lucia said she believed that most people go to Hell because of sins of the flesh. If souls can be condemned to hell because of one unrepentant mortal sin for all eternity is it not to be understood that other souls could be detained for long years in purgatory who have committed countless deliberate venial sins for which they have had little sorrow and had done little or no penance. The guilt that has been remitted by absolution, but the temporal punishment will have to be paid in purgatory.



Modern Man is Frantically 
Running From The Ultimate 
Reality of His Own Death.

Hieronymus Bosch  “Death of a sinner”, angel and devil weigh a mans soul



                
Today we are so busy, so frantically busy trying to control our own personal destiny and good fortune and in the process we unwittingly make today's technological advances our God.  In extreme cases the computer screen has become his tabernacle and window into solving his thirst for knowledge. Knowledge for finite things because that is all the computer can give us. We are deceived into believing from all the information available to us up to the computer. All the images (visions) that can be brought before him, from the outer reaches of the universe and the depths of the ocean that we can finally solve and ultimately control the mysteries of the universe. The mysteries  of life and death without the reality of God!  A deception of the devil for this time the ultimate deception the ultimate lie!  Poor simple man is tempted to believe he is something that he is not before his peers and even before God!
 Someday God Will Send 
A Strong Delusion
I feel it is here in our day!

I wonder if the scriptures of 2Thessalonians2:9-12 is in the beginnings if not already being actualized! 9The coming of the lawless one with all power, signs, and lying wonders, 10 and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this reason God will send them a strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

We are spending  more and more time involved in this technology to do what we think are great things! What was supposed to save time for human relationships has become a time consumer. Often we no longer have time for true prayer.  A prayer that enables an openness of soul to Goda readiness and receptivity in order to be always praying, (Luke 18:1)andalways listeningto hear his voice when he whispers to our souls in the silence.  We have lost this form of prayer because there is no longer silence for modern manour ears are plugged into something all day! 

Another victory of the devil that technology has brought us! We can no longer hear the voice of conscience with all the noise and distractions around us. Without conscience we longer hear the truth about ourselves and the truth about God. I fear if we persist down this slippery slope God will allow us to have faith in whatever it is we put faith in.  If we don't turn back to  God in prayer, he may (if he has not already) send the strong delusion described in, Thessalonians 2:11. And in other words a time may come that God will not permit the deluded to repent. Hence this little catechesis on the 4 last things: Death, Judgment, Heaven or Hell and reality of purgatory as mentioned by the events of Fatima.  

The Message of Fatima confirmed  
the Reality of Purgatory
God’s Mercy vs. God’s Perfect Justice

Why not say the 5 last things 
and include Purgatory?
Purgatory is only temporary end before the final end in Heaven so it is not considered to be one of the last things. However Purgatory is such an important dogma of the church. Incredibly so many Catholics are ignorant of Purgatory so do nothing to avoid it themselves and little or nothing to help the Poor Souls who are there, suffering intensely, as they wait for Masses and prayers to be offered for them. That is why Our Lady brought up the reality of Heaven and Purgatory in her first appearance to the children. Only after strengthening them with the graces given in both the May and June apparitions did the children experience another reality of a place called hell. 

The painting below of Our Lady of Mt Carmel, the 'Throne of Mercy' and 'Queen of the Angels', who takes great delight in sending her Angels to release those Souls mercifully pardoned by her Son Jesus through the prayers and supplications of the church!

This painting is similar of Our Lady in Lucia's Parish Church!
This was how Lucia recognized that it was Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
who also appeared during the Miracle of the Sun in October


During Our Lady's First Visit to Fatima in May Lucia–the oldest of the three, after being reassured by Our Lady that they would all one day go to Heaven. Jacinta and Francisco would go soon and she would go but not right away because it was the will of God that she help promote the devotion to her Immaculate Heart to save poor sinners. Lucia found the courage and asked Our Lady about two of her friends who recently died: "Is Maria das Neves is in Heaven?" "Yes" answered Our Lady, "she is in Heaven."  She also asked about another friend, Amelia. Our Lady answered: "She will be in Purgatory until the end of the world."


Amelia's Fate is a 
Warning for All of Us!

Amelia was eighteen years old when she died. She is in Purgatory and will, on the testimony of Our Blessed Mother, stay there until the end of time.  Let us take to heart and make certain that her fate will not be our own. What could she have done to merit such purgation in those days and what about us and the sins committed in our era?

Why such a lengthy expiation?

The malice of sin is great. What we think are small faults are in reality serious offenses against the infinite goodness of God. Look how the saints wept over their smallest faults. We are weak we say and it is true but God is always there for us offering us graces to strengthen us and giving us lights to see the gravity of our sins. We do not use the lights and graces he so generously offers us, and we do not receive the sacraments as we should.

The saints committed few and slight sins they sorrowed much over them and did severe penances. We commit many and grave sins and we sorrow little and do little or no penance. For the majority of us who do make the positive decision to serve God and are not yet properly prepared (humble enough) to enter Heaven, the only choice is to make the transition to goodness in Purgatory. Our Lord tells us that we shall have to render an account for each and every idle word we say (Matthew12:36 ) and that we may not leave our prison until we shall have paid the last farthing. (Matthew 5:26).


All Venial Sins
Must also be Atoned for!

All sins mortal and venial accumulated for 20, 40, or 60 years of life. Each one has to be atoned for after death. Is it a wonder that souls have to remain so long in purgatory? It cannot be calculated the immense number of venial sins we commit on a daily basis. Faults of self love, selfishness; in thoughts words and deeds.  Acts of sensuality, faults of charity; laziness, vanity, jealousy, tepidity.  Then the sins of omission that we give no credence too. Do we ever thank God as we should for all his blessings given to us?  He waits for our visits day and night in the tabernacle; do we go? He dies for us every morning at Mass and gives innumerable graces to those who participate longing to come into our hearts in Holy Communion. We are too lazy to attend this Calvary. We have luxurious homes, food, clothing while many in the world live in hunger and misery.  Life is given to serve God and save our souls but we are satisfied if we give God five minutes of prayer in the morning and evening and the rest of the 24 hour day is given to work, rest and pleasures.  

And Mortal Sins?

Unfortunately, Most of us have committed mortal sins in our lives and if we confess them we do not make satisfaction for them. Do we return what we have stolen or make charitable contributions to the poor if we cannot. Did we restore the good name of the other who we maligned with our slander or calumny?The tongue can murder another as well as a gun or knife and change the direction of the life of someone for good or ill!St. Gertrude in her revelations indicated that those who have committed many grave sins and have not done due penance, may not share in the ordinary suffrage's of the church for a very considerable time! The venerable Bede also indicated that the justice of God may demand that those who pass a great part of their lives in repeated and unrepentant mortal sins and confess them on their death bed, may be detained in purgatory until even the last day.

We would do well to remember that the best means of lessening our term in Purgatory -- or of avoiding it altogether -- is to have clear ideas of it, to think well and often on it and to adopt the means God offers for avoiding it.   Not to think of it is FATAL. It is nothing else than preparing for ourselves a long and rigorous Purgatory!



The servant of God Fr. John Anthony Hardon, S.J. said many times: “Only the very chaste and very humble shall enter Heaven; No one else! No one else! No one else!”

    Jesus Meek and Humble of Heart
    Make Our Hearts Like Unto Thine!

Fr. Hardon and the Catholic Dogma of Purgatory                    
                 

  

 Miracle of Holy Mass 
and Purgatory in 1657    

Montserrat - the site of a Marian shrine - is a Benedictine monastery with nearly 1000 years of history. The shrine is set on the ledge of the mountains where a Basilica and Benedictine monastery are also built. The Basilica was constructed in the neo-Gothic and Renaissance style and was consecrated in 1592, 100 years after the discovery of America.  According to legend, the statue of Our Lady of Montserrat was discovered by young shepherds who had been attracted by lights that came from a cave where the statute was hidden. Our Lady of Montserrat is the Patroness of Catalonia, and because of the color of her skin, she is known as "La Moreneta" ("The Little Black Madonna").




The Most Reverend Father Bernardo de Ontevieros, General of the Benedictine Order in Spain, along with the Abbot Father Millán de Mirando, were present at the monstery of Our Lady of Montserrat to take part in several conferences when a woman with her young daughter came to the monastery, and the little girl began to implore Abbot Millán to celebrate three Masses in memory of her deceased father, deeply convinced that by the merits of these Masses, the soul of her father would be freed from the pains of Purgatory. The good Abbot, moved by the tears of the young girl, began to celebrate the first of these Masses for the dead on the following day, and the little girl, who was present at the Mass with her mother, during the consecration began to declare that she saw her father kneeling at the foot of the main altar, surrounded by dreadful flames. The Father General, who was skeptical, wishing to determine whether the little girl’s account was true, told her to bring a handkerchief close to the flames that surrounded her father. The little girl, following his directive, placed the handkerchief in that mysterious fire which only she was able to see, and at once all the monks saw the handkerchief catch fire with a living flame. .....Read More


Further Meditations on the Four Last things

 Divine Providence brought a little booklet titled READ ME or RUE IT  by Fr. Paul O'Sullivn,O.P.  The cover promised that the pamphlet would be a Revelation for many who would read it and it was for me.  I paraphrased portions from this booklet within this post. I also want to mention the Classic Meditations on the Four Lastthings: DEATH, JUDGMENT, HELL and HEAVEN by Fr. Martin Von Cochem O.S.F.C.  whose quote is one of the titles of this post and will be an valuable source for further meditations. Links for both booklets can be found at the end of this post.

READ ME or RUE IT  by Fr. Paul O'Sullivn,O.P.

Classic Meditations on the Four Lastthings:
DEATH, JUDGMENT, HELL and HEAVEN by Fr. Martin Von Cochem O.S.F.C.



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Our Lady of Lourdes Strengthen Us to Wait for Jesus at the foot of the Cross!

February 2, 2013, 7:24 am
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Novena Prayer to Our Lady of Lourdes

Oh ever immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, Health of the Sick, Refuge of Sinners, Comforter of the Afflicted, you know my wants, my troubles, my sufferings. Look upon me with mercy. When you appeared in the grotto of Lourdes, you made it a privileged sanctuary where you dispense your favors, and where many sufferers have obtained the cure of their infirmities, both spiritual and corporal. I come, therefore, with unbounded confidence to implore your maternal intercession. My loving Mother, obtain my request. I will try to imitate your virtues so that I may one day share your company and bless you in eternity. Amen. 

Click Here to

Place Your Petitions and Join in the Prayers and Devotions Live at the Grotto on Lourdes TV 24/7

  Photo © Real Presence Association uploaded by Speramus-We Hope w permisssion

Encyclicalby Pope Pius XII 
 on Lourdes
 "LePelerinage de Lourdes"

Le Pelerinage de Lourdes is the only encyclical of Pope Pius XII issued in French and the only encyclical written on Lourdes. The pope recalled pleasant memories of his pilgrimage to Lourdes which he undertook as Papal delegate at the Eucharistic and Marian Celebrations in 1937. He  reminded the faithful of France, "that every Christian land is a Marian land and that there is not one nation redeemed in the blood of Christ which does not glory in proclaiming Mary its Mother and Patroness”  He then recalls the history of Marian veneration, the history of Lourdes and the contributions of the Popes to her veneration at Lourdes.


It was issued on the centenary of the apparitions of Lourdes from St. Peter's Basilica, on the feast of the Visitation of the Most Holy Virgin, July 2, 1957, the nineteenth year of his Pontificate. The encyclical represents one of the strongest pronouncements of the papal magisterium on Marian apparitions in the history of the Catholic Church. The Pope presents Mary as the model of Christian Life. The school of Mary teaches everybody selflessness and charity.   

 

"In the school of Mary one can learn to live, not only to give Christ to the world, but also to await with faith the hour of Jesus, and to remain with Mary at the foot of the cross.







Wherever providence has placed a person, there is always more to be done for God's cause. Priests should with supernatural confidence, show the narrow road which leads to life. Consecrated and Religious fight under Mary's banner against inordinate lust for freedom, riches, and pleasures. In response to the Immaculate, they will fight with the weapons of prayer and penance and by triumphs of charity. Go to her, you who are crushed by material misery, defenseless against the hardships of life and the indifference of men. Go to her, you who are assailed by sorrows and moral trials. Go to her, beloved invalids and infirm, you who are sincerely welcomed and honored at Lourdes as the suffering members of our Lord. Go to her and receive peace of heart, strength for your daily duties, joy for the sacrifice you offer."







"O my mother, in yourheartI placed all the anguish of myheart and it is there that I gain strength and courage." 
Sainte Berrnadette Personal Notebook p.28








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Sede Vacante Benedict XVI Leaves Vatican--Adopt A Cardinal and Pray for him during the Conclave

March 1, 2013, 3:00 am
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“The Church is in the world but not of the world and it is a living body,” therefore it is not an institution designed and conceived according to pre-set plans, but is of God. Wednesday’s audience is proof of this, it has shown the “awakening of the Church in souls”. -Benedict XVI speaking to the Cardinals full text below


The process of transition to a new pope has begun the Church is without a pope, a successor to St. Peter to lead her. Benedict XVI will now be known as "pontiff emeritus," and will spend the next few weeks at the hilltop Castel Gandolfo residencebefore moving to a small monastery (Mater Ecclesia) within the Vatican grounds. He will likely retain the name Benedict XVI.

 
Fr. Federico Lombardi said that His symbolic Fisherman's Ring and papal seal will be"destroyed" by means of making scratch marks so that they can no longer be used to seal documents. 

  


Benedict XVI Ended Pontificate 
With 3 Million Twitter Followers

Benedict's final  Twitter tweet was sent at 11 a.m. ET from his @Pontifex account, and read: "Thank you for your love and support. May you always experience the joy that comes from putting Christ at the centre of your lives."

The nine @pontifex Twitter accounts reached over three million followers just before 8 pm on Thursday, when the accounts were officially made inactive as the Sede Vacante started. The account will remain dormant until the next pope decides whether he wants to use it, the Vatican said. 

Symbolizing that gulf at the top, all the account's Twitter pages read only "sede vacante,"  The new pope will have the option to start tweeting from the account or not.  The archived tweets of Benedict XVI can be foundhere

Adopt a Cardinal & Pray for Him 
During the Conclave
You now have the opportunity to actively be part of this conclave  by having a Cardinal assigned to you, who you will support through your prayer and intercession during the coming weeks before and during the conclave and for three days following the election.When you participate, you are given "adoption papers" with the picture of a cardinal for whom you will pray! Click the "Adopt" button now!Currently over 129,978 people have adopted a Cardinal! What about you?
Pope: Farewell discourse to College of Cardinals

            From Adopt a Cardinal
  
Dear Spera Rose,Ocds-- Congratulations!

You have adopted this Cardinal:
from Canada, born 1936-6-26.
He's been a Cardinal since 1994-11-26  
he is: Archbishop emeritus of Montreal, Canada
May the prayer for your Cardinal be deeply blessed. The team behind adoptacardinal.org

    Prayer for Election of New Pope
Reverend F.E. Lasance, Prayer-Book for Religious (New York: Benziger Brothers, 1934), p. 1061

With humble hearts, we pray to Thee, O Lord, that, in Thy goodness, Thou wouldst grant to the Holy Roman Church a Sovereign Pontiff who shall be ever pleasing in Thy sight, on account of his tender solicitude for us, and ever reverenced by Thy people, on account of his salutary rule unto the glory of Thy name. Through Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.



Last Words and Blessing 
 as Pope from Castel Gandolfo

"Thank you, thank you all!Dear friends I am happy to be with you...your friendship does me a lot of good....Thank you for your friendship and affection...I am not any longer the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church- until 8pm I am, but then, no longer. I am simply a pilgrim who is beginning his last stage of pilgrimage on this earth. I would still like to, with my heart, love, prayer, and reflection, with all my interior strength, work for the common good, for the good of the Church and of humanity, and I feel very sustained by your love. Let us go ahead together with the Lord for the good of the Church and of the world. Grazie! I extend to you now, with all my heart, my blessing....grazie! Good night! Thank you all! 

 Last Talk to the Cardinals
Dear beloved brothers,

I welcome you all with great joy and cordially greet each one of you.I thank Cardinal Angelo Sodano, who as always, has been able to convey the sentiments of the College, Cor ad cor loquitur. Thank you, Your Eminencefrom my heart.
 
And referring to the disciples of Emmaus, I would like to say to you all that it has also been a joy for me to walk with you over the years in light of the presence of the Risen Lord.As I said yesterday, in front of thousands of people who filled St. Peter's Square, your closeness, your advice, have been a great help to me in my ministry.

In these 8 years we have experienced in faith beautiful moments of radiant light in the Churches’ journey along with times when clouds have darkened the sky.We have tried to serve Christ and his Church with deep and total love which is the soul of our ministry.
We have gifted hope that comes from Christ alone, and which alone can illuminate our path. Together we can thank the Lord who has helped us grow in communion, to pray to together, to help you to continue to grow in this deep unity so that the College of Cardinals is like an orchestra, where diversity, an expression of the universal Church, always contributes to a superior harmony of concord. 

I would like to leave you with a simple thought that is close to my heart, a thought on the Church, Her mystery, which is for all of us, we can say, the reason and the passion of our lives. I am helped by an expression of Romano Guardini’s, written in the year in which the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council approved the Constitution Lumen Gentium, his last with a personal dedication to me, so the words of this book are particularly dear to me .

Guardini says: "The Church is not an institution devised and built at table, but a living reality. She lives along the course of time by transforming Herself, like any living being, yet Her nature remains the same. At Her heart is Christ."

This was our experience yesterday, I think, in the square.We could see that the Church is a living body, animated by the Holy Spirit, and truly lives by the power of God, She is in the world but not of the world.She is of God, of Christ, of the Spirit, as we saw yesterday.

This is why another eloquent expression of Guardini’s is also true: "The Church is awakening in souls."The Church lives, grows and awakens in those souls which like the Virgin Mary accept and conceive the Word of God by the power of the Holy Spirit. They offer to God their flesh and in their own poverty and humility become capable of giving birth to Christ in the world today.

Cardinal Burke speaks with Benedict XVI  photo by
Through the Church the mystery of the Incarnation remains present forever. Christ continues to walk through all times in all places. Let us remain united, dear brothers, to this mystery, in prayer, especially in daily Eucharist, and thus serve the Church and all humanity. This is our joy that no one can take from us.

Prior to bidding farewell to each of you personally, I want to tell you that I will continue to be close to you in prayer, especially in the next few days, so that you may all be fully docile to the action of the Holy Spirit in election of the new Pope. May the Lord show you what is willed by Him. And among you, among the College of Cardinals, there is also the future Pope, to whom, here to today, I already promise my unconditional reverence and obedience. For all this, with affection and gratitude, I cordially impart upon you my Apostolic Blessing"  (From Vatican Radio)

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Sede Vacante Day #12 Cardinal Electors Vow to keep Conclave Proceedings Secret!

March 12, 2013, 3:30 am
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  Prayer for Election of NewPope            
F.E. Lasance, Prayer-Book for Religious (New York: Benziger Brothers, 1934), p. 1061


With humble hearts, we pray to Thee, O Lord, that, in Thy goodness, Thou wouldst grant to the Holy Roman Church a Sovereign Pontiff who shall be ever pleasing in Thy sight, on account of his tender solicitude for us, and ever reverenced by Thy people, on account of his salutary rule unto the glory of Thy name. Through Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
          

For all those who can watch the Mass on television or  internet, at 10 am March 12th, Rome time, and also for all those who are merely able to spare a thought & prayer for what is going on in Rome, please  pray for the 115 men who during the next few days will have the task of discerning the will of the Holy Spirit for the Church in electing our next Pope, and also for that man – whoever he may be – who will take on this superhuman burden for the sake of God and humankind. More Details....  

In the late afternoon the cardinals will then make their way into the Pauline Chapel and from there in procession to the Sistine Chapel singing the Litany of All the Saints! Click Video Litany of Saints 2005 Conclave


After they process to the Sistine chapel  we will wait, maybe several days, until the Cardinal Protodeacon Jean-Louis Tauran (unless he is elected himself) appears on the balcony to proclaim to the city and the world:"Habemous Papam: We have a pope! 



Daily Schedule for 2013 Conclave
From Rome Reports: The Cadinal's set schedule will officially begin on Tuesday at 7 a.m., when the cardinals are required to move in to Domus Santae Marthae for the duration of the conclave, and will end until a new Pope is chosen.

 Next Full-day schedule for the Conclave:
6:30 a.m.: Breakfast for one hour
7:45 a.m.: Depart from Hotel to Apostolic
Palace
8:15 a.m.: Hour-long Mass at Pauline Chapel
9:30 a.m.: First two rounds of voting inside
Sistine Chapel
12:30 p.m.: Return to Santa Marta
1:00 p.m.: Lunch
4:00 p.m.: Depart from Hotel to Apostolic Palace
4:50 p.m.: Remaining two rounds of voting
inside Sistine Chapel
7:15 p.m.: Vespers (prayer) at Sistine Chapel
7:30 p.m.: Return to Santa Marta
8:00 p.m.: Dinner
Asking St Joseph to Help
Cardinals Elect New Pope
St Joseph the protector and guardian of Our Lord and Our Lady, is also invoked as the Patron of the Universal Church in recognition of his strength and fortitude. God the father gave St. Joseph the most exalted duty of protecting the Sacred Humanity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, who would redeem mankind and endow it with the most perfect and ultimate gift of Eternal Life through His Passion death and resurrection. To fulfill His Divine mission, God the Father entrusted His Son to the paternal care of St. Joseph.  St. Joseph is the epitome of a pure man: pure in thought, pure in heart; pure in body and soul – destined to be the most chaste spouse of Mary Most Holy conceived without sin. 

 The Catholic Church, born from the water that gushed forth from Jesus' side, and nurtured by the maternal love of Our Lady, sought comfort and protection from the snares and malice of Satan and his followers in the hands of St. Joseph, the terror of demons! We can expect that God also endowed him with an equally proportional grace to carry out such a mission in life. And certainly we can picture him as an icon of manliness and a pillar of strength that would sow fear among the powers of darkness.  Given the noble task under his watch.In recognition of this special place, the Church honors him with the highest veneration next to Mary.  More on St Joseph  the 3rd secret and the Fatima Message

In a post from his blog on Wednesday,Cardinal Dolan said that he would be beginning a novena to St. Joseph on Monday, March 11th, nine days before St. Joseph's March 19th feast. He invited the faithful to join him in praying for discernment in for the Cardinals in the election of the new
pope.
      Novena to Saint Joseph

Saint Joseph, you are the faithful protector and intercessor of all who love and venerate you. I have special confidence in you. You are powerful with God and will never abandon your faithful servants. I humbly invoke you and commend myself, with all who are dear to me, to your intercession. By the love you have for Jesus and Mary, do not abandon me during life, and assist me at the hour of my death.


O Glorious Saint Joseph, spouse of the immaculate Virgin, Foster-father of Jesus Christ, obtain for me a pure, humble, and charitable mind, and perfect resignation to the Divine Will. Be my guide, my father, and my model through life that I may merit to die as you did in the arms of Jesus and Mary.




Loving Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, I raise my heart to you to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the Heart of Jesus all the graces necessary for my spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly the grace of a happy death, and the special grace I now implore: (Mention your request Help for Cardinals to elect a Holy Pope). Guardian of the Word Incarnate, I am confident that your prayers on my behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God.
          Adopt a Cardinal & Pray 
During the Conclave
You now have the opportunity to actively be part of this conclave  by having a Cardinal assigned to you, who you will support through your prayer and intercession during the coming weeks before and during the conclave and for three days following the election.When you participate, you are given "adoption papers" with the picture of a cardinal for whom you will pray! Click the "Adopt" button now!Currently over 517,177people have adopted a Cardinal! What about you?
Pope: Farewell discourse to College of Cardinals
          From Adopt a Cardinal
  
Dear Spera Rose,Ocds-- Congratulations!

You have adopted this Cardinal:
from Canada, born 1936-6-26.
He's been a Cardinal since 1994-11-26  
he is: Archbishop emeritus of Montreal, Canada



Let us Keep Vigil in prayer togetheruntil we hear "Habemus Papam!"

Habemous Papam: We have a pope! The announcement given in Latin by the Cardinal Protodeacon, the senior Cardinal Deacon, upon the election of a new pope. The announcement is given from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.



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Habemus Papam! Pope Francis elected 3/13/13-The Fatima Message Embraces the Holy Father with prayer!

March 13, 2013, 11:00 am
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Pope Francis elected the 266th pope on 3/13/13. We thank God & Our Lady of Fatima for you! Our prayers will always be with you that God will always strengthen you to carry the burden of the church militant on your shoulders as you, follow St Francis to help Jesus "rebuild his Church"!

 




Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected after two days of conclave meetings, with five rounds of voting. The voting is confidential but Francis received at least 77 votes, which is the minimum two-thirds required to become pope. There were 115 cardinals eligible to vote in the conclave. All were under 80 before Benedict's retirement, as required by Vatican rules.
Pope Francis is the first Jesuit pope, the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere and the first pope from the Americas. Indeed, he is the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years; the last non-European pope, St. Gregory III, was born in Syria and reigned from 733 to 741. Francis is also the first pope since Pope John Paul I to take a previously unused papal name From 1998 until his election as pope, he served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, and was elevated to cardinal in 2001 and was a member of the following congregations:



 
Pope'sFirst address"Urbi et Orbi"
To the city (Rome) and to the World
Brothers and sisters, good evening!  You know that it was the duty of the Conclave to give Rome a Bishop.  It seems that my brother Cardinals have gone to the ends of the earth to get one... but here we are... I thank you for your welcome.  The diocesan community of Rome now has its Bishop.  Thank you!     

And first of all, I would like to offer a prayer for our Bishop Emeritus, Benedict XVI.  Let us pray together for him, that the Lord may bless him and that Our Lady may keep him.  Our Father...Hail Mary...Glory Be... 

And now, we take up this journey:  Bishop and People.This journey of the Church of Rome which presides in charity over all the Churches.  A journey of fraternity, of love, of trust among us.  Let us always pray for one another.  Let us pray for the whole world, that there may be a great spirit of fraternity.  It is my hope for you that this journey of the Church, which we start today, and in which my Cardinal Vicar, here present, will assist me, will be fruitful for the evangelization of this most beautiful city. 

 The First Apostolic Blessing 
And now I would like to give the blessing, but first - first I ask a favour of you: before the Bishop blesses his people, I ask you to pray to the Lord that he will bless me: the prayer of the people asking the blessing for their Bishop.Let us make, in silence, this prayer:  your prayer over me.  
Now I will give the Blessing to you and to the whole world, to all men and women of good will.[Blessing] 
Brothers and sisters, I leave you now.  Thank you for your welcome.  Pray for me and until we meet again.  We will see each other soon.  Tomorrow I wish to go and pray to Our Lady, that she may watch over all of Rome.  Good night and sleep well!


As a cardinal, Pope Francis became known for his personal humility, doctrinal conservatism and commitment to social justice. A simple lifestyle contributed to his reputation for humility. He lived in a small apartment, rather than in the palatial bishop's residence. He gave up his chauffeured limousine in favor of public transportation, and he reportedly cooked his own meals. He has invited his clergy and laityto opposeabortion euthanasia and Homosexuality.
 
When affirming church teaching on homosexuality, he also taught the importance of respecting individuals who are homosexual. He strongly opposed legislation introduced in 2010 by the Argentine Government to allow same-sex marriage, calling it a "real and dire anthropological throwback". In a letter to the monasteries of Buenos Aires, he wrote: "Let's not be naive, we're not talking about a simple political battle; it is a destructive pretension against the plan of God. We are not talking about a mere bill, but rather a machination of the Father of Lies that seeks to confuse and deceive the children of God." He has also insisted that adoption by homosexuals is a form of discrimination against children. This position received a rebuke from Argentine president Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, who said the church's tone was reminiscent of "medieval times and the Inquisition".

My sister, is a Franciscan Religious, and is in Rome for these historic moments residing only 2 blocks from the Vatican. She said that it rained off and on during the conclave. Once the white smoke came it stopped raining sort of like the miracle at Fatima. There were also white birds, pigeons or gulls present that hovered around the smoke stack off and on during the conclave and stole the show for the news media waiting for news. One nested right near the smoke stack for quite sometime. I was reminded of the white pigeons or doves at Fatima that follow Our Lady's statue during the major processions on the 13th of each month from May-October. I heard a press reporter comment on the internet live feed; "What about the birds in the picture, I did not know they had a press pass too!! These little events suggesting hopefully Our Lady's intervention for the church! Let us follow the advice of Bl. Jacinta of Fatima who said; "We must pray very much for the Holy Father!" Let us pray the Rosary every day so that the new Pope Francis will lead us to the Triumph of Mary's Immaculate Heart!
Fatima Message Embraces HolyFatherwithPrayer & Sacrifice!
 "We must Pray very much for the Holy Father"
-Bl. Jacinta

"I saw the Holy Father!" Jacinta continued. "He was in a very big house, kneeling by a table, with his head buried in his hands, and he was weeping. Outside the house, there were many people. Some of them were throwing stones, others were cursing him and using bad language. Poor Holy Father, we must pray very much for him."
 
Some experts believed that this mysterious vision applied to Pope Pius XII. But it is more probable that this prophetic vision also concerned the future popes. In particular I believe Benedict XVI. Unprecedented Media Attacks on the papacy since 2010
 
Also see: At Fatima Heaven reclaims #13 from pagan worship to a sacred number You will find this heading at the very end of this post on the Anniversary of the death of Sr. Lucia who died at 96 years of age on 2/13/2005.
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VIVA LA PAPA! Today,with the feast of Saint Joseph, we are celebrating the beginning of the ministry of the Successor of Peter!

March 19, 2013, 2:30 pm
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The pontificate of Pope Francis begins under the sign of St. Joseph, father and protector of  the Holy Family and theChurch. And also under the sign of St. Francis, the protector of the earth, and all who are on the earth, the man of peace.



The essential message in the homily given by Pope Francis to open his pontificate draws on the image of St. Joseph, spouse of Mary, head of the Holy Family. And that message is to "protect."This message is important at a time when the figure of the person who "protects," be he or she a father, a mother, a priest, a scholar, a leader, is under attack -- in a time when the "protection" is entrusted to others, or to none, when the "protectors" are anonymous, or hidden, or when they simply don't exist. To "protect" means to make sure what one protects is not harmed, not hurt. Click to seeSt. Joseph's Humble Appearance at Fatima Announces A Crisis of Fatherhood in Society and the Church!
Only those like St Joseph, who serve with love are able to protect!
"He must be inspired by the lowly, concrete and faithful service which marked Saint Joseph and, like him, he must open his arms to protect all of God’s people and embrace with tender affection the whole of humanity, especially the poorest, the weakest, the least important, those whom Matthew lists in the final judgment on love: the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick and those in prison (cf. Mt 25:31-46). Only those who serve with love are able to protect!"
Follow link: "ITE AD JOSEPH!" -"GO TO JOSEPH!"

"How does Joseph respond to his calling to be the protector of Mary, Jesus and the Church? By being constantly attentive to God, open to the signs of God's presence and receptive to God's plans, and not simply to his own. This is what God asked of David, as we heard in the first reading. God does not want a house built by men, but faithfulness to his word, to his plan. It is God himself who builds the house, but from living stones sealed by his Spirit. Joseph is a "protector" because he is able to hear God's voice and be guided by his will; and for this reason he is all the more sensitive to the persons entrusted to his safekeeping. He can look at things realistically, he is in touch with his surroundings, he can make truly wise decisions. In him, dear friends, we learn how to respond to God's call, readily and willingly, but we also see the core of the Christian vocation, which is Christ! Let us protect Christ in our lives, so that we can protect others, so that we can protect creation!"

"....Whenever human beings fail to live up to this responsibility, whenever we fail to care for creation and for our brothers and sisters, the way is opened to destruction and hearts are hardened.   Tragically, in every period of history there are “Herods” who plot death, wreak havoc, and mar the countenance of men and women."

This emphasis on "protecting" also seems to recall a passage in the Book of Revelation which focuses on "not hurting," that is, protecting.
In Chapter 7 of Revelation, an angel ascends from the east, bearing "the seal of the living God."  The angel cried out in a "loud voice" to the other "angels," who had been "hurting" the earth. Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. Rev.7:3 

"To protect Jesus with Mary, to protect the whole of creation, to protect each person, especially the poorest, to protect ourselves: this is a service that the Bishop of Rome is called to carry out, yet one to which all of us are called, so that the star of hope will shine brightly. Let us protect with love all that God has given us!"--Pope Francis

St. Joseph Hoped against Hope!
"ITE AD JOSEPH!" -"GO TO JOSEPH!" -St.Theresa of Avilia


Did You know that St Joseph was also present at the last Apparition of Fatima on October 13, 1917?  The children saw him Blessing the world with the Child Jesus in his arms as the crowds beheld the Miracle of the Sun. 

Follow links: 
St. Joseph's Humble Appearance at Fatima Announces A Crisis of Fatherhood in Society and the Church!

St Joseph Protector of Church- Vatican II-Conversion of Russia & Timeline Leading to end of Soviet Union!


"Like Saint Joseph, the hope that we bring is set against the horizon of God, which has opened up before us in Christ."-Pope Francis

"In the second reading, Saint Paul speaks of Abraham, who, "hoping against hope, believed" (Rom 4:18). Hoping against hope! Today too, amid so much darkness, we need to see the light of hope and to be men and women who bring hope to others. To protect creation, to protect every man and every woman, to look upon them with tenderness and love, is to open up a horizon of hope; it is to let a shaft of light break through the heavy clouds; it is to bring the warmth of hope! For believers, for us Christians, like Abraham, like Saint Joseph, the hope that we bring is set against the horizon of God, which has opened up before us in Christ. It is a hope built on the rock which is God.

The Pope asked Our Lady to help him during his pontificate and also for the prayers of all Christians
 
 
"I implore the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, Sts. Peter & Paul, and Saint Francis, that the Holy Spirit may accompany my ministry, and I ask all of you to pray for me! Amen"-Pope Francis Inaugural Mass 
See: A prayer for the Pope by Leo XIII


Pope Francis also mentioned Benedict XVI who was celebrating his name day. (name days are celebrated in Italy almost like a birthday).He was baptized Joseph Ratzininger. "I thank the Lord that I can celebrate this Holy Mass for the inauguration of my Petrine ministry on the solemnity of Saint Joseph, the spouse of the Virgin Mary and the patron of the universal Church. It is a significant coincidence, and it is also the name-day of my venerable predecessor: we are close to him with our prayers, full of affection and gratitude."
 Pope Francis Papal Coat of Arms 
Are the same that he used as bishop. The shield has a bright blue background, at the centre top of which is a yellow radiant sun with the IHS christogram on it representing Jesus (it is also the Jesuit logo). The IHS monogram, as well as a cross that pierces the H, are in red with three black nails directly under them. Under that, to the left, is a star representing Mary, Mother of Christ and the Church. To the right of the star is a nard flower representing Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. With these symbols the Pope demonstrates his love for the Holy Family.What distinguishes his coat of arms as pontiff is that, instead of the wide-brimmed, red cardinal's hat atop the shield, it is now crowned by the papal tiara and crossed keys.
                                       
His motto—“miserando atque eligendo”
(because he saw him through the eyes of mercy and chose him)—is taken from the Venerable Bede's homily on the Gospel account of the call of Matthew. It holds special meaning for the Pope because—when he was only 17-years-old, after going to confession on the Feast of St. Matthew in 1953—he perceived God's mercy in his life and felt the call to the priesthood, following the example of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

 VIVA LA PAPA!


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The Pope asked Our Lady to help him and also for the prayers of all Christians! Prayer for the Pope by Leo XII

March 20, 2013, 12:12 pm
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"I implore the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, Sts. Peter & Paul, and Saint Francis, that the Holy Spirit may accompany my ministry, and I ask all of you to pray for me! Amen"-Pope Francis Inaugural Mass

A Prayer for the Pope 
-by Pope Leo XII 

 O Lord, we are the millions of believers, humbly kneeling at Thy feet and begging Thee to preserve, defend and save the Sovereign Pontiff for many years. He is the Father of the great fellowship of souls and our Father as well. On this day, as on every other day, he is praying for us also, and is offering unto Thee with holy fervor the sacred Victim of love and peace.
  
Wherefore, O Lord, turn thyself toward us with eyes of pity; for we are now, as it were, forgetful of ourselves, and are praying above all for him. Do Thou unite our prayers with his and receive them into the bosom of Thine infinite mercy, as a sweet savor of active and fruitful charity, whereby the children are united in the Church to their Father. All that he asks of Thee this day, we too ask it of Thee in unison with him.

Whether he weeps or rejoices, whether he hopes or offers himself as a victim of charity for his people, we desire to be united with him; nay more, we desire that the cry of our hearts should be made one with his.

Of Thy great mercy grant, O Lord, that not one of us may be far from his mind and his heart in the hour that he prays and offers unto Thee the Sacrifice of Thy blessed Son. At the moment when our venerable High Priest, holding in His hands the very Body of Jesus Christ, shall say to the people over the Chalice of benediction these words: "The peace of the Lord be with you always," grant, O Lord, that Thy sweet peace may come down upon our hearts and upon all the nations with new and manifest power. Amen.
The Fatima Message Embraces
 the Pope with Prayer & Sacrifice!
"We must Pray very much for the Holy Father!"
 -Bl. Jacinta

 One day, Lucy said, we spent our siesta down by my parents' well. Jacinta sat on the stone slabs on top of the well. Francisco and I climbed up a steep bank in search of wild honey among the brambles in a nearby thicket. After a little while, Jacinta called out to Lucia: "Didn't you see the Holy Father?"  "No I did not see him." Lucia said.
 "I saw the Holy Father!" Jacinta continued. "He was in a very big house, kneeling by a table, with his head buried in his hands, and he was weeping. Outside the house, there were many people. Some of them were throwing stones, others were cursing him and using bad language. Poor Holy Father, we must pray very much for him."
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Twitter and Bloggers Banter over Pope Francis and discarding some long held Traditions! What does it mean?

March 28, 2013, 3:36 pm
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Photo CourtesyMoynihan's E-Reports Inside the VaticanLetter #54
Below some of the bantering over Pope Francis and discarding Traditions banted around on Twitter and blogs. What about it and what does it mean for the future?This is the comment I made to   publisher of Inside the Vatican. Some of my unsolicited thoughts on his Letter #54 regarding the Pope discarding some Traditions. What can be discarded what needs to be kept?

By the way I highly recommend you support Mr. Moynihan’s work by subscribing to his magazine Inside the Vatican or Read Robert Moynihan's Letters at the MoynihanLetters.com. He has done superb work in reporting the event that took place at the Vatican these past months and can use your support!

I responded to him that I like Traditions! I am comfortable with Traditions’ they are a safety net of sorts. They have meanings and make us who we are! I immediately thought of a scene from the Fiddler on the Roof and a song from that movie called Traditions!  

The Papa cried out in scenes as each of his Jewish daughters left to be married forsaking old Jewish customs his struggle with God over them breaking long cherished customs! He struggled back and forth yes or no! And finally Papa yelling towards the heavens shook his fist "TRADITION!!" what is wrong with Traditions?
 
              

Yes, There are rich symbolism's in the long traditions of the Papacy but symbolism are nothing if they are not lived! If Christ is not lived! I sent him the link here of the song from Fiddler on the roof called “TRADITIONS”

Moving on, In the decades since the second Vatican Council that ended in 1965, the popes have considerably dressed-down, abandoning the more formal attire that their forefathers customarily wore wrapped in tradition and symbolism. Many of the vestments are based on age-old customs.

Benedict XVI honored Catholic tradition and embraced the ceremonial and elaborate Renaissance period. It was his desire to re-connect the church with her Liturgical roots and connect us again with the Church’s traditional liturgy and doctrin. His choice of garb reflected this. “What earlier generations held as sacred, remains sacred and great for us, too, and it cannot be, all of a sudden, entirely forbidden or even considered harmful,” Benedict XVI Apostolic Letter Summorum Pontificum issued Motu Proprio

The new style of Pope Francis is also evident in his wardrobe. Simplicity is now the style. Gone were the ceremonial vestments of Benedict XVI. Rather than wear the new golden pectoral cross he was offered after his election Wednesday, he kept the simple iron crucifix he had since he was anointed auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires in 1992. Wearing it instead of the traditional gold cross former popes would use during their first meet and greet. He also turned down the red velvet cape that Benedict wore when he was presented to the world for the first time in 2005, He choose the simple white cassock of the papacy instead. There were no elaborate details.

Pius XII Red Shoes
Later it was noted that Pope Francis also choose also not to wear the "red shoes" that past Popes have typically worn. This tradition goes back more than 2000 years off and on. Here are Pius VII's slippers from 1808, 205 years ago: So, it is a tradition. It isn't a very important tradition. It has no doctrinal significance, of course. But it is a Tradition!

The papal shoes, along with the camauro, papal mozzetta, and cloak (tabarro), are the only remnants of the former red color of the papal garments. St. Pope Pius V (1566 - 1572), who was a Dominican, changed the papal color to white, and it has remained so since.

The red shoes probably date from early Roman times. The Kings of Rome, who were also the Pontifex Maximus (high priest) wore red boots. When the Roman Republic was established the Pontifex Maximus continued to wear red boots. When Christianity became the state religion, the popes became the Pontifex Maximus, and adopted the red shoes.

The New York Times commented on his choice of shoes: "[Francis] wore simple black shoes and an ordinary wristwatch with a thick black band to his first Mass as pontiff.... In an ancient institution where style often translates into substance, Francis, in his first 24 hours as Pope, has dramatically shifted the tone of the papacy. Whereas Benedict XVI, the pope emeritus, was a theologian who favored red loafers, ermine-lined cloaks and erudite homilies, reviving papal fashions from centuries past, Francis, the former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, appeared Thursday to be sending a message of radical humility.”

I don’t know where the press, even Catholic Press gets the idea that this signifies humility. Radical simplicity is not the same as humility. These things could indeed indicate could a humble disposition but does not necessarily mean one is humble. One can take pride in one’s own simplicity! I am not accusing the Holy Father of pride here just pointing this out. Having said that, In a world of ego, pretensions and materialism coupled with the tendency to assert one’s own self importance even when we’re not!

It was attributed but not documented historically that St. Francis once said: Always Preach the Gospel and when necessary use words! I came across another similar quote years ago that always stuck in my mind: “Be conscious of who you are you may be the only Gospel a neighbor may read!”

There is no doubt an example of radical simplicity is important for our bishops, priests and religious to give us. This must and has already began at the top. Bravo Pope Francis! Let’s hope it filters down the ranks! 

More on Holy Thursday Traditions! 
What is the pope teaching us now? 

Pope Francis has won over many hearts and minds with his simple style and focus on serving the world's poorest, but he has devastated traditionalist Catholics who adored his predecessor, Benedict XVI, for restoring much of the traditional pomp to the papacy.


One of the most-read traditionalist blogs, "RorateCaeli," reacted to the foot-washing ceremony by declaring the death of Benedict's eight-year project to correct what he considered the botched interpretations of the Second Vatican Council's modernizing reforms.  Read More.....


Breaking a centuries-old tradition, Pope Francis washed the feet of a dozen inmates at a juvenile detention center he Pope washed the feet of 12 teens from all religions, including two Muslims. Another surprise was that among the 12 were two girls. He dried them off with a cloth made with yarn from the Holy Land. It also contained pieces of a fishing net used by fishermen on the Sea of Galilee.


I have to confess that this was a lot for me to digest.  I believe in TRADITIONS! What about the institution of the priesthood and the Eucharist?  Both are in need of attention and reform. Couldn't this have been done at another time? What does this all mean?

The pope told them in his homily:
“What does this mean? That we have to help one another. If you are angry at someone, let it. And if they ask you for a favor, do it. Jesus teaches us this, and this is what I do, I do it with all my heart, because it's my duty.”

If we have the real presence of Christ we also must be more like Christ in our actions in regard to our neighbor! If we do not treat our neighbor like Christ we are fooling ourselves. We are living a dream world. Even if we have the perfect priest and the perfect Liturgy. If Christ does not change us we have nothing!  In the end we will be judged withOur Lords words in Matthew 25:41-4"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me."

Jesus Christ Crucified Have Mercy upon us! Mary Most sorrowful, Pray for us! Passion of Christ, Strengthen us! Lord, I must imitate you! Lord Help me! Even when I do not understand!




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The People of God invited to join the pope when he consecrates his Pontificate to Our Lady of Fatima!

April 26, 2013, 12:26 pm
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Cardinal Policarpo
Cardinal Policarpo the Cardinal of Lisbon, revealed the details of the consecration of the Pontificate of Pope Francis to Our Lady of Fatima. It will be included in the program of the International Pilgrimage of May 12/13 during the 96th anniversary of the first apparition of Our Lady to seers Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta, and will be presided over by Mons. Orani Tempesta, the Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro.

The cardinal stated that he himself will write the prayer of consecration of the pastoral ministry of Pope Francis to Our Lady and all the people of God are invited to join him in prayer for Our Lady’s protection and guidance over the pontificate of Pope Francis.

Cardinal Policarpo said that Pope Francis had asked him twice after he was elected on March 13th to consecrate his Petrine ministry to Our Lady of Fatima. He immediately added that although he could fulfill the Pope's wish alone "in the silence of prayer, "it would be beautiful if the entire Bishops' Conference of Portugal would participate in fulfilling this request."

This they will do and by making it public they are giving the entire church an opportunity to participate in this consecration and support the pope with their prayers. I have heard that some individuals and churches will join the pope by offering various novenas to Our Lady for his safety and protection. Others, along with me are renewing their Marian Consecrations on that day.

        Parents, Pastors & Bishops
Let's make or renew ourConsecrations with the Pope!


Wouldn’t it be great, if all families, pastors, bishops and cardinals renewed or made for the first time the consecrations of their homes, parishes or dioceses to Our Lady by placing all the souls under their care in the Heart of Our Lady. This would surely have great spiritual benefits and hasten the longed for Triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary promised at Fatima!
 
I began the 33 day preparation period with a friend on April 10th to renew my  DeMontfort Total Consecration to Our Lady on May 13th. I was consecrated for the first time in 1984 on March 25th. I had already decided to do this before I heard of the Popes intention to consecrate his papacy to Our Lady of Fatima and was happy that Divine Providence enabled me to also include my preparatory prayers along with prayer for the pope and the church.

“This Pope is a sign of hope”Cardinal Policarpo


"This Pope is a sign of hope. Do not let hope die is already proving to be his explicit message. Does this mean inevitable reforms in the life of the Church? Most certainly. Everyone is talking about a reform to the Curia; he has not spoken but this yet. But he has made it clear he will proceed." 
On this topic, the Cardinal of Lisbon foresees that the Pope will "correct something that we also experience in our dioceses which is to prioritize pastoral vitality, and not allowing administrative bureaucracy to be the first priority."
 
In the case of the Roman Curia, this reform must be done in a way that gives new meaning to the doctrine of the Second Vatican Council on the collegiality of Bishops and the just autonomy of individual churches. This reform cannot take place on the basis of errors or scandals that focuses on a much-spoken about rhetoric," he warned.

 For Cardinal Policarpo, "errors are to be corrected, people are to be converted."-----Read more

13th of May Fatima, Portugal

--Farewell Procession

                       
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Consecration of Pontificate of Pope Francis a Ray of Hope for the Church!

May 14, 2013, 2:47 pm
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On the 96th Anniversary of the Fatima apparitions we hope that all of you joined with the pope spiritually by renewing your consecrations to Our Lady of Fatima and pledge to be more faithful in living her message. 
A message that involves prayer and penance especially the daily recitation of the Rosary,the wearing of the brown scapular and fulfilling the 5 first Saturdays. All of this in order to obtain peace in the world and the Triumph of her Immaculate Heart. The pope Bl. John Paul II did his part when he Consecrated Russia with a moral union of the bishops throughout the world on March 25, 1984. Lucia later said the pope did what was required then. It is up to us now! Do you pray the daily Rosary and wear the Brown Scapular ?

The Brown Scapular was Our Lady’s last loving appeal to souls to wear as a sign of Consecration to Her Immaculate Heart and is endowed with many privileges from the church including the Sabbatine Privilege. Lucia of Fatima said that "Our Lady never looked as beautiful as when she appeared at Fatima during the Miracle of the Sun in Her Carmelite Habit and the very fact that she was holding the Brown Scapular tells us that she wants us to take it and USE IT!”

The Brown Scapular may also have a similar symbolic mission as the blood over the doors of the Jews during the Passover. Our Lady held out the scapular to the crowd during the Miracle of the sun which foreshadowed a purification and a need for protection. This is offered to all who are consecrated to her and place themselves under her mantle of protection. When the church passes through the period of purification leading to the Triumph of the Immaculate Heart, the scapular will identify us in this future battle as Children of Mary, under her mantle of protection.
Did you make and if so promote encourage others to make their 5 First Saturdays? Do you go to confession one of the requirements to Make the first Saturdays. Do you console Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament (Fatima Begins and ends with the Eucharist)Do you make Eucharistic reparation for all the outrages sacrileges and indifference by which he is offended in the Eucharist?  Fulfilling the requests of Our Lady of Fatima are the means given by God to obtain the final victory of good over evil

It is not the popes who failed us they finally fulfilled the request of Our Lady by consecrating Russia. It was late as prophesied but it was done. Rather now it is the people who are failing by not living the message and they are preparing their own punishment according to Sr. Lucia.

             Naaman the Syrian
We are sometimes like Naaman the Syrian who was told to bathe seven times  in the Jordon river by the prophet Elisha in order to be cured of Leprosy. He was upset that the prophet himself didn't bother to come down and speak to him directly or heal him in some better manner than telling him to bathe in a river that was rather dirty looking. He had high expectations of how hishealing should take place. Are we not sometimes like poor Naaman? This plan for world peace from the mouths of three little shepherd children is too simple. We are looking for other greater signs or shows for God's help. Naaman humbled himself at the urging of his friends and was granted the cure he sought. Again we are often running around trying to do great things ourselves to obtain favor with God instead of doing what he asked us to do through 3 little children. It is too simple this Rosary and scapular. This consecration to our Lady's Immaculate Heart these 5 first Saturday's for reparation. Above all Eucharistic Reparation but not just reparation reform.
Prayer of Cardinal Policarpo consecrating the Pontificate of 
Pope Francis to Our Lady of Fatima
  
A sign of Hope the Consecration of the pontificate of Pope Francis. Addressing Our Lady of Fatima during the ceremony this past May 13th, Cardinal Polycarp said, “We consecrate to you, Our Lady, mother of the church, the ministry of the new pope,” he prayed. “Fill his heart with the tenderness of God that you experienced so that he can embrace all the men and women of our age with the love of your son Jesus Christ.”


 “Grant (Pope Francis) the gift of discernment to know how to identify the paths of renewal for the Church, grant him the courage to not falter in following the paths suggested by the Holy Spirit, protect him in the difficult hours of suffering, so that he may overcome, in charity, the trials that the renewal of the Church will bring him.
The path of Church renewal leads to a “rediscovery of the relevance” of the Fatima message and of the need to “converse with God,” he explained. “Contemporary humanity needs to feel loved by God and by the Church,” Cardinal Polycarp said. “If humanity feels loved, it will overcome the temptation to violence, materialism, estrangement from God, loss of direction, and it will be able to advance towards a new world in which love will prevail.”


Cardinal Polycarp recalled the visits of Bl.John Paul II and Benedict XVI at Fatima and expressed his desire that Pope Francis do so as well. “From here,at this altar of the world, he will be able to bless humanity, to make the world of today feel that God loves all men and women of our time, that the Church loves them and that you, Mother of the Redeemer, lead them with tenderness on the paths of salvation,” the cardinal said.
  
We are Hopeful that the Consecration of this pope to Our Lady of Fatima will help and encourage the faithful to return to the basics in the simplicity of living the Message of Fatima in our lives. Then Our Lady will have the weapons to fight the spiritual warfare against principalities and powers the church increasingly finds herself in.  Remember our Lady told St. Catherine Laboure that many graces are not given the world because we do not ask for them. We pray for peace in the Rosary. We will have world peace when enough people say the Rosary and place ourselves under her protection. We must use spiritual weapons to fight this  spiritual battle Our Lady will win it for us!

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Benedict XVI joins Pope Francis in consecrating Vatican to St Michael Archangel and St. Joseph!!

July 5, 2013, 10:14 am
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(Vatican Radio) To the joy of Vatican City State workers, Friday morning Pope Francis was joined by Pope emeritus Benedict XVI in the gardens for a ceremony during which the Holy Father blessed a statue of St Michael Archangel, at the same time consecrating the Vatican to the Archangel’s protection.

Following a brief ceremony, Pope Francis addressed those present noting how St. Michael defends the People of God from its enemy par excellence, the devil. He said even if the devil attempts to disfigure the face of the Archangel and thus the face of humanity, St Michael wins, because God acts in him and is stronger:
 
 New statue of St. Micheal in Vatican Gardens sculpted by Giuseppe Antonio Lomuscio.
"In the Vatican Gardens there are several works of art. But this, which has now been added, takes on particular importance, in its location as well as the meaning it expresses. In fact it is not just celebratory work but an invitation to reflection and prayer, that fits well into the Year of Faith. Michael - which means "Who is like God" - is the champion of the primacy of God, of His transcendence and power. Michael struggles to restore divine justice and defends the People of God from his enemies, above all by the enemy par excellence, the devil. And St. Michael wins because in him, there is He God who acts. This sculpture reminds us then that evil is overcome, the accuser is unmasked, his head crushed, because salvation was accomplished once and for all in the blood of Christ.

 Though the devil always tries to disfigure the face of the Archangel and that of humanity, God is stronger, it is His victory and His salvation that is offered to all men. We are not alone on the journey or in the trials of life, we are accompanied and supported by the Angels of God, who offer, so to speak, their wings to help us overcome so many dangers, in order to fly high compared to those realities that can weigh down our lives or drag us down. In consecrating Vatican City State to St. Michael the Archangel, I ask him to defend us from the evil one and banish him. "

"We also consecrate Vatican City State to St. Joseph, guardian of Jesus, the guardian of the Holy Family. May his presence make us stronger and more courageous in making space for God in our lives to always defeat evil with good. We ask Him to protect, take care of us, so that a life of grace grows stronger in each of us every day. "

The Pope in  June also approved a new addition to the Latin Rite Mass. The name of St. Joseph, will be included after the usual prayer to the Virgin Mary in all of the Eucharistic Prayers in the in the 3rd edition of the Missale Romanum.
 
The Decree of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments was made public on Tuesday, June 18, 2013. The decree was promulgated on May 1, 2013, the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. The Decree mandates the insertion of the name of St. Joseph in the Prayer offered by every Catholic priest in the world when they offer Eucharistic Prayers II, III, and IV during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. St. Joseph is already included in Eucharistic Prayer I. 

So, What is Pope Francis saying here! What does it mean? Maybe it  Announces A Crisis of Fatherhood in Society and the Church! St Joseph, Fatima and Fatherhood

St. Joseph's Appearance at Fatima Announced A Crisis of Fatherhood in Society and the Church! 

Also see: Fatherhood and Family under Attack—The Spirit of Anti-Fatherhood also entered the Churc
The rejection of the Fatherhood of God!







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Significant Carmelite Feasts in July to meditate on in the light the Fatima Message

July 13, 2013, 10:32 am
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Beginning July 1 the Feast of the Precious Blood  the month of July has many important Feasts that meditated on in the light of the Fatima message  have great significance to  our spiritual life in the midst of the battles we face in bearing witness to the faith. 
  
 One such feast fell yesterday on  July 12th  the Memorial of for Bls. Louis and Zelie Martin, the parents of St. Thereseon is a  very recent addition to the Carmelite Proper.  In Divine providence this date chosen by the church for their memorial has great significance for parents today and for their roles as the primary instructors for their children in the faith.   

                         

Other significant Feasts in July that have bearing on our spiritual warfare today when meditated on in the light of Fatima include:

July 13th 3rd Fatima Apparition 
Mary came as a Catechist at Fatima and is a model catechist for parents today!

July 16th Our Lady of Mt Carmel
Another Hidden Meaning for the Brown Scapular?
  
July 16th The Prophet Elijiah
Will the Mission of the Prophet Elijah culminate in the Apparitions of Our Lady at Fatima?

July 23rd: Holy Mary Virgin Mother of Divine Grace 
"Let us proceed and approach the Throne of Grace"

This post centers on our relatively new Blesseds, Louis and Zelie Martin in their role as spouses sanctifying each other and as parents preparing their children for heaven.

The Church in placing their memorial on July 12th which is the vigil of the 3rd Fatima apparition. In this apparition of Our Lady  the children were given a  vision of Hell.  This was no mistake of providence the church is telling us of the importance of a living witness of faith by parents if they wish their children to have a chance for Heaven.  Today Parents have to relearn and take seriously their obligations to catechize their children and prepare them  to make the proper moral choices for the next life.


Tertullian who lived  in the first Christian century stated: "Christians are not born they are made." The Church has always understood the absolute necessity of evangelizing and catechizing young children. This is the parents duty for their children and our Lady's appearance at Fatima preceded by the angel in 1916, teaches parents how to teach their children working with the the graces God has given them. 

 

© Vision of Hell   Photo designed  for Speramus-We Hope 

Think of it! Our Lady did not spare little children at the tender ages of 6, 8 and 9 years a frightful vision of hell! Through this frightful vision the children were taught the consequences due to sin. They were taught  that souls who sin and are not repentant will end up on fire burning there forall eternity.The children were forever changed by it and from then on did everything to make sacrifices and prayers so souls would not end up there!
How many parents today coddle and pamper their children, never teaching these little souls entrusted to them by God the importance of prayer and sacrifice and the consequences of sin. 


We greatly underestimate the capacity of children  to do good for prayer and sacrifice! When children are taught by the living examples of their parents they are generous in their response to good. Very often the children's unreserved "offering of self" far surpasses the half-hearted offering of adults, who are overly imbued with self-love and attachment to material wealth, prestige, security, and comfortable living.
The Parents of  St Therese of Liseuix were exemplary Catechists in instructing their children through their example and witness of their lives and the church wants us to take note of it! Parents must help their children by teaching them how to practice the virtues. Charity, mercy, prudence justice, fortitude, temperance, humility to overcome the capital sins of pride greed, lust, anger, sloth, envy, and gluttony. The virtues need to be taught to children as Our Lady and the Angel did to the shepherds of Fatima. This is how future vocations are formed in the homes by the example of the parents.

 Louis Martin was born at Bordeaux on August 22nd, 1823 and  Zelie Guerin was born on December 23rd, 1831.  Both Louis and Zelie sought to enter Religious life; however, neither were admitted.  Louis had become a successful watchmaker and Zelie had started her own successful lace-making business.  Louis and Zelie met in Alencon France and were married on July 13th, 1858.  They wanted to raise souls for Heaven. They were to have nine children; however,  two baby boys and a baby girl died as did another daughter at age 5.  Of the remaining five daughters, all would become nuns:  Marie, Pauline, Celine and Therese were Carmelite nuns at the same Monastery in Lisieux.  Leonie was a Visitation nun at a convent in Caen.  Louis and Zelie Martin were Beatified by Pope Benedict the XVI on October 19th, 2008.



The education of their children was at the same time joyful, and demanding. Very early on, Zelie Martin teaches them the morning offering of their hearts to the good God, the simple acceptance of daily difficulties "to please Jesus."  This was the indelible mark that is the basis of the little way taught by St. Therese. One cannot conceive of the growth in holiness of Therese and the religious vocations of her sisters independent of the spiritual life of both her parents.
Having said that, if the parents themselves  are defectively evangelized or not evangelized at all, (many are today) they are unprepared for catechetical teaching and the passing the faith to their children. Their instructions will be senseless and downright silly if they are un-prepared, or worse, unwilling to live the Christian life at home. This Christian witness in the home is vital pass on the faith and to supplement what the church is teaching their children in its Catechism programs. If it is not there the faith will not be absorbed. 

Our Lady came to show how important it is to teach children from their most tender years to be generous and  how to make sacrifices. The moral virtues most be learned and practiced over and over due to our fallen human nature. See also: Our Lady came as a Catechist at Fatima and is a perfect model for all Catechists today

We do not usually talk about Mary as a catechist at Fatima and we do not commonly think of her as a model for those who catechize. But according to the Servant of God Fr. John Anthony Hardon, S.J.,  "The Blessed Virgin Mary is not only a pattern; she is a perfect model of what every catechist in the Catholic Church should be. More details see: Mary is the perfect model of all Catholic Catechists!  
             ©  Photo designed  for Speramus-We Hope  

Servant of God Fr John Hardon, S.J.

To Help Parents become better Catechists consider taking the Basic Catechetical Course with the Marian Catechist Apostolate founded by the Servant of God Fr. John Hardon, S.J.
 
Our Lady came to Fatima to combat the atheism, rebellion and materialism of the modern world. She came from God to save souls from unbelief, sin and ultimately from hellfire. She came, begging all believers to join Christ in his work of redemption by living faith-filled and holy lives. The Parents of of St Therese Blessed Louis and Marie Zélie Martin are held up by the Church for the parents of our time! They are great example of parents who fulfill their primary duty of educating and preparing their children for the next life to live with God for all eternity in Heaven


Blessed Louis and Marie Zélie Martin
Feast Day July 12th

 Prayer 
Lord, you have given to Blessed Louis and Marie Zélie
the grace to lead a life of holiness as Christian spouses and parents.
Grant that through their intercession and example
each of us may be able to love and serve you faithfully,
living worthily our own vocation.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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Fulfilling the requests of our Lady @ Fatima are the means given by God to obtain final Victory of Good over Evil and the Triumph of Mary!

August 3, 2013, 7:56 am
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Our Lady of Sorrows
During the miracle of the sun Our Lady also appeared as the the Sorrowful Mother lamenting the great loss of souls who would not heed her pleas and did not avail themselves to her help.

Be an apostle to help spread the First Saturday Devotions and help Our Lady in this great battle for souls! Consider going to parishes that do not recite the Rosary before or after Mass and ask the pastor if he will allow the public recitation of the Rosary and if he will Consecrate the parish to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Many parishes already recite the Rosary before or after Mass but so many do not.

What on Earth are You Doing
For Heavens Sake?

The servant of God Archbishop Fulton Sheen once said: "The problem with the World today is that there are not enough Rosaries being said."


For parishes that already recite the Rosary, does the pastor participate? This is a powerful silent example for his people. In my parish many people stay for the Rosary because Father is leading it. Many more Rosaries are then being offered. Father is placing his people and parish under our Lady's mantle of protection everyday. What greater thing can a pastor do for them? These are positive steps everyone can do towards a victory in this spiritual war.

THE TRIUMPH OF THE IMMACULATE HEART!
The means given to us by God in obtaining the final triumph of Mary "The Woman Clothed in the Sun" can be gleaned from the MESSAGE of Fatima along with the other Marian Apparitions APPROVED BY THE CHURCH in the light of the Fatima Message.

1. Say the Rosary everyday (5 decades)  More if we are able. Mass often according to our state in life.

2. Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Individuals, Families, Parishes, Dioceses' Nations.

3. The Brown Scapular
Enrollment and wearing of The Brown Scapular of our Lady of Mt. Carmel. During the Miracle of the sun when the crowd thought it was the end of the world the children saw Our Lady appear as Our Lady of Mt. Carmel holding the Rosary and the scapular.

Lucia of Fatima said that "Our Lady never looked so Beautiful as When She Appeared at Fatima During the Miracle of the Sun in Her Carmelite Habit.

Lucia said that: "The very fact that She was Holding the Brown Scapular tells us that She Wants us to Take it and USE IT ! "OUR LADY WANTS EVERYONE TO WEAR THE BROWN SCAPULAR: IT IS THE SIGN OF CONSECRATION TO HER IMMACULATE HEART!!" Through these (the Rosary and Scapular) she will save the world. 

The brown scapular will act as the blood over the doors of the Jews during passover. The angel of death passed by all the homes marked by the Blood of the lamb to deliver them from the slavery of the Egyptians.

The Triumph of Mary



 God will also perform great wonders for his church when he ushers in the Triumph of Mary but in order for us to pass through the time of purification we must be marked as a child of Mary wearing her brown scapular! 

Jesus was the firstborn of the Father who died for us. The scapular will identify us as his brothers and sisters. It is endowed with many privileges from the church including the Sabatine Promise. For more on the Brown Scapular.





4. Confession once a Month

The First Saturday Devotions requires one to go to confession once a month for five consecutive months. My own experience with souls returning to the practice of the faith is that after the struggle to persevere and do this for five months, overcoming the obstacles the devil places in front of them, Our Lady gives them graces beyond their imagining. You placed yourself under her mantle of protection. She becomes our mother and teacher catechist in the spiritual life. We have a grace from her a hunger to learn and grow closer to the mystery of her son in the Eucharist. A desire to defend his honor and the rights of Holy Mother Church. She wants to prepare her children for union with her son. When we receive him in Holy Communion and also at that final union with him at the end of our life. 
5. Our Daily Duties
The message of Fatima consists simply in the fulfillment of our daily duties according to our state in life. Personal Consecration to Mary with the wearing of the Brown Scapular as a sign of consecration, along with daily recitation of the Rosary and First Saturday Devotions, are  the sure means in obtainig the final Victory of good over evil and the Triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary will be obtained!


Maria Auxilium Christianorum Refugium Peccatorum 
Ora pro nobis libera nos ab igne inferni!

Mary Help of Christians Refuge of Sinners, 
Pray for Us, Save us from 
the fires of hell!

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Hope for Tomorrow! The Landfill Harmonic Orchestra ‘the world sends us garbage, we send back music’

September 1, 2013, 1:50 pm
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When I was forwarded this video and story of the Landfill Harmonic Orchestra my thoughts immediately went to the Motto of the City of Detroit penned by its most illustrious missionary priest; Fr. Gabriel Richardafter the fire that leveled the city in 1805.  He wrote: “Speramus meliora; resurget cineribus“; In English: “We hope for better things; and it will arise from the ashes”. The Latin word Speramus translated into English means: We Hope.  We hope, pray and work for the Triumph of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
  




The vast landfill site on the outskirts of Asuncion in Paraguay is said to receive 1.5 tons of rubbish each day. While most people might just see piles of plastic and aluminum, Favio Chávez combined his passion for music and his work as a technician to help children turn discarded items into musical instruments. Thus Paraguay's one and only landfill orchestra, the Cateura Orchestra of Recycled Instruments, was born

A garbage picker named Nicolás Gómez or “Cola” found a piece of trash that resembled a violin and brought it to musician Favio Chávez. Using other objects collected from the dump, they constructed a functional violin in a place where a real violin is worth more a house. Using items gleaned completely from the dump, they also built a cello, a flute, a drum, and suddenly had a wild idea: could a children’s orchestra be born in one of the most depressed areas in the world? As you can guess, the answer was yes.

All of the musicians of the Landfill Orchestra come from Cateura.  In the midst of such a bleak existence, they have created something both special and inspiring. "My life would be worthless without music." says one girl in pigtails. A young man named Juan Manuel Chavez, nicknamed Bebi, has a cello fashioned out of an oil can and old cooking tools. For the camera, he plays the Prelude to Bach's Cello Suite No. 1 — beautifully. "People realize that we shouldn't throw away trash carelessly," says Chavez at the end of the trailer. "Well, we shouldn't throw away people either!




"When I listen to the sound of a violin I feel butterflies in my stomach"






These simple children out of the garbage dumpsare preaching to our modern world with their lives.  Their instruments from the garbage heaps are giving  renewed hope to a the senseless consumerism and activism of our day.  As, we live out our lives on our journey to Heaven awaiting the promised Triumph of Mary. We wait often in the midst of present apprehensions and fears of future sufferings.  Take for example the events in Syria with a threat of a 3rd World war looming on our horizon.   

Will these words of our Lady have a literal as well as spiritual implications? "If my requests are heeded, Russia will be converted, and there will be peace; if not, she will spread her errors throughout the world, causing wars and persecutions of the Church. The good will be martyred, the Holy Father will have much to suffer, various nations will be annihilated" Our Lady, Fatima July 13th, 1917

Even if we suffer from another war the consequences from the effects or our sins as a generation. These children from the garbage heaps are teaching us that the human spirit united to God, can and will rise above a loveless society. The ingenuity of the Human spirit will rise above the destruction  and evils around us whether its in the tragedy of poverty or the destructive forces of war men united to God can bring beauty once more to the world from the ashes.


     

 Facebook page for Landfill Harmonic and here’s the website for the upcoming documentary movie (January 2014) about the Landfill Harmonic Orchestra (“The world sends up garbage. We send back music”).


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Sept 7, Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace in the World Pope Francis Echos The Cry of Blessed John Paul II NO MORE WAR!!

September 4, 2013, 2:55 pm
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Bl. John Paul II  was the Pope of Human Rights, in the fight against violence. After the September 11 attacks on the Twin Towers, Bl. John Paul II called for avoidance of the idea it was a war between civilizations. “Father of everyone, listen to the unanimous cries of your children. No more war, the adventure with no return. No more war, the spiral of violence and mourning.”--Bl John Paul II  Read More on Life of John Paul II


Pope Francis once again repeats the CRY FOR WORLD PEACE as he addressed tens of thousands of people in St. Peter's Square,“Never again war!” said Pope Francis. “We want a peaceful world,” he said, “we want to be men and women of peace.”

 The pope made a long heartfelt , impassioned appeal for peace in Syria and across the Middle East, saying God and history would be the judge of those who promoted violence or prevented peace. "There are so many conflicts in this world which cause me great suffering and worry, but in these days my heart is deeply wounded in particular by what is happening in Syria and anguished by the dramatic developments which are looming.  On 7 September, in Saint Peter’s Square, here, from 7PM TILL MIDNIGHT, we will gather in prayer and in a spirit of penance, invoking God’s great gift of peace upon the beloved nation of Syria and upon each situation of conflict and violence around the world. Humanity needs to see these gestures of peace and to hear words of hope and peace! I ask all the local churches, in addition to fasting, that they gather to pray for this intention.

I appeal strongly for peace, an appeal which arises from deep within me.  How much suffering, how much devastation, how much pain has the use of arms carried in its wake in that martyred country, especially among civilians and the unarmed! I think of many children who will not see the light of the future! With utmost firmness I condemn the use of chemical weapons: I tell you that those terrible images from recent days are burned into my mind and heart. There is a judgment of God and of history upon our actions which are inescapable! Never has the use of violence brought peace in its wake. War begets war, violence begets violence.“Never again war!” said Pope Francis. “We want a peaceful world,” he said, “we want to be men and women of peace.”

To this end, brothers and sisters, I have decided to proclaim for the whole Church on 7 September next, the vigil of the birth of Mary, Queen of Peace, a day of fasting and prayer for peace in Syria, the Middle East, and throughout the world, and I also invite each person, including our fellow Christians, followers of other religions and all men of good will, to participate, in whatever way they can, in this initiative. May the plea for peace rise up and touch the heart of everyone so that they may lay down their weapons and let themselves be led by the desire for peace.

"Let us ask Mary to help us to respond to violence, to conflict and to war, with the power of dialogue, reconciliation and love. She is our mother: may she help us to find peace; all of us are her children! Help us, Mary, to overcome this most difficult moment and to dedicate ourselves each day to building in every situation an authentic culture of encounter and peace. Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us!"Read it online

I  hear once more in the urgent plea of Pope Francis words the echo of Bl. John Paul II' heart felt cry  in his prayer to Our Lady when He consecrated the the World and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary:In entrusting to you, O Mother, the world, all individuals and peoples, we also entrust to you this very consecration of the world, placing it in your motherly Heart.

Bl. John Paul with Fatima Statue Rome 1984

Immaculate Heart! Help us to conquer the menace of evil, which so easily takes root in the hearts of the people of today, and whose immeasurable effects already weigh down upon our modern world and seem to block the paths towards the future!

From famine and war, deliver us. 

From nuclear war, from incalculable self-destruction, from every kind of war,  deliver us. 

From sins against the life of man from its very beginning, deliver us. 
From hatred and from the demeaning of the dignity of the children of God, deliver us. 
From every kind of injustice in the life of society, both national and international, deliver us. 
From readiness to trample on the commandments of God, deliver us. 
From attempts to stifle in human hearts the very truth of God, deliver us. 
From the loss of awareness of good and evil, deliver us. 
From sins against the Holy Spirit, deliver us, deliver us. 

Accept, O Mother of Christ, this cry laden with the sufferings of all individual human beings, laden with the sufferings of whole societies.  Help us with the power of the Holy Spirit to conquer all sin: individual sin and the ‘sin of the world', sin in all its manifestations. Let there be revealed, once more, in the history of the world the infinite saving power of the Redemption: the power of merciful Love! May it put a stop to evil! May it transform consciences! May your Immaculate Heart reveal for all the light of Hope!”.  Read More...



Bl. John Paul II at Fatima--1988









 
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The Epic Battle between St. Michael and Lucifer that took place in Heaven is still being waged on Earth!

September 29, 2013, 5:48 pm
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Today is the memorial to our Guardian Angels. Did you thank your Holy Angel for never leaving you even when he witnessed your most grievous sins. Your Holy Angel stood by your side grieivng and yes maybe even wanting to avange the honor of God but he did not he stood by waiting and praying for grace that God will open your eyes and you will repent! If you had a conversion experience this was also due to your Holy Angel who guided you to the people that would help you. Just like St Augustine who  through the prayers of his Mother St. Monica was led to St Ambrose whose homilies St. Ambrose helped awaken in St Augustine the light of faith!'  Similarly, our guardian angels  protect, defend and guides each of us through the warfare that is still taking place on Earth. 

The same war that began in Heaven at the beginning of time in the book of between St Michael and the Good Angels who cast Lucifer and the bad angels out of Heaven. Rev. chapter 12. St. John writes of the great conflict at the end of time, which reflected the battle in heaven at the beginning of time in the book of Genesis.  I will put enmities between thee and the woman, and thy seed and her seed: she shall crush thy head, and thou shalt lie in wait for her heel.Genesis 3:15 

 Did you thank your  Guardian Angel today? 

It is he who will lead you through this life and the epic battle still waging around us between the good and the bad angels. Man is also a participant in this epic battle still being fought in time on earth. Man has a choice in time for and against good and our holy guardian angel wants us to be with then beholding the face of the father in Heaven!  to the Judgment seat of Christ.The battle that took place in heaven at the beginning of time will wage on earth  until Christ returns and makes his enemies his footstool. Each human person will also have his choice in this same battle either for God and His will or for mans will. "O Angel of Christ, my holy Guardian and Protector of my soul and body, forgive me all my sins of today. Deliver me from all the wiles of the enemy, that I may not anger my God by any sin. Pray for me, sinful and unworthy servant, that thou mayest present me worthy of the kindness and mercy of the All-holy Trinity and the Mother of my Lord Jesus Christ, and of all the Saints. Amen".  An Eastern Orthodox prayer to the Guardian Angel


The Epic Battle between St. Michael & Lucifer that took place in Heaven still waged on Earth!
Fall of the rebel Angels by Frans Floris
7 And there was a great battle in heaven, Michael and his angels fought with the dragon, and the dragon fought and his angels: 8 And they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And that great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, who seduceth the whole world; and he was cast unto the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.10 And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying: Now is come salvation and strength and the kingdom of our God and the power of his Christ: because the accuser of our brethren is cast forth, who accused them before our God day and night.12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time. Rev.12:7-12



Woman of the Apocalypse Peter Paul Ruben

The Woman of Genesis 3:15 andthe Woman with the Dragon in Rev.:12 can viewed as the Church founded by Christ and/or the Virgin Mary who is the Mother of Christ and Mother of the Church.

Meditations on these verses should be made with both interpretations present because both are interchangeable. For me I can see more that Our Lord is referring to the Church of God that he left behind on earth when he ascended to Heaven. Her offspring are those who are baptized that the devil is seeking. The rivers of water the devil spews from his mouth are the heresies, the lies that make good evil and evil good. The devil uses them to try to destroy the church by these deceptions. 








Pope Francis & Benedict XVI 
Entrusted the Vatican City State 
to St. Michael the Archangel last July


This was a significant action taken by the Pope and may also signify that the pope is reinforcing the words of Venerable Paul VI.  The church is in the midst of the epic Battle of Revelation Chapter 12  with the forces of evil in the world. Evil "whose smoke has entered into the very confines  of the church. As  Pope Francis entrusted the Vatican City State to St Michael the Archangel he said :"Though the devil always tries to disfigure the face of the Archangel and that of humanity, God is stronger, it is His victory and His salvation that is offered to all men. We are not alone on the journey or in the trials of life, we are accompanied and supported by the Angels of God, who offer, so to speak, their wings to help us overcome so many dangers, in order to fly high compared to those realities that can weigh down our lives or drag us down. In consecrating Vatican City State to St. Michael the Archangel, I ask him to defend us from the evil one and banish him. " Read more....


Venerable Pope Paul VI 
and the MYSTERY OF EVIL

 
This battle and deceptions were notably assessed and written about by the Venerable Paul VI as early as 1972 in a General Audience given on November 15 of that year.

 CONFRONTING THE DEVIL'S POWER  

"What are the Church's greatest needs at the present time? Don't be surprised at Our answer and don't write it off as simplistic or even superstitious: one of the Church's greatest needs is to be defended against the evil we call the Devil.



Man's Fatal Tempter
There are many things we do know, however, about this diabolical world, things that touch on our lives and on the whole history of mankind. The Devil is at the origin of mankind's first misfortune, he was the wily, fatal tempter involved in the first sin, the original sin. That fall of Adam gave the Devil a certain dominion over man, from which only Christ's Redemption can free us. It is a history that is still going on: let us recall the exorcisms at Baptism, and the frequent references in Sacred Scripture and in the liturgy to the aggressive and oppressive "power of darkness." The Devil is the number one enemy, the preeminent tempter.

So we know that this dark disturbing being exists and that he is still at work with his treacherous cunning; he is the hidden enemy who sows errors and misfortunes in human history. It is worth recalling the revealing Gospel parable of the good seed and the cockle, for it synthesizes and explains the lack of logic that seems to preside over our contradictory experiences: "An enemy has done this."He is "a murderer from the beginning, . . . and the father of lies," as Christ defines him. He undermines man's moral equilibrium with his sophistry. He is the malign, clever seducer who knows how to make his way into us through the senses, the imagination and the libido, through utopian logic, or through disordered social contacts in the give and take of our activities, so that he can bring about in us deviations that are all the more harmful because they seem to conform to our physical or mental makeup, or to our profound, instinctive aspirations.


Venerable Paul VI with President John F. Kennedy
This matter of the Devil and of the influence he can exert on individuals as well as on communities, entire societies or events, is a very important chapter of Catholic doctrine which should be studied again, although it is given little attention today. Some think a sufficient compensation can be found in psychoanalytic and psychiatric studies or in spiritualistic experiences, which are unfortunately so widespread in some countries today. We can presume that his sinister action is at work where the denial of God becomes radical, subtle and absurd; where lies become powerful and hypocritical in the face of evident truth; where love is smothered by cold, cruel selfishness; where Christ's name is attacked with conscious, rebellious hatred,where the spirit of the Gospel is watered down and rejected where despair is affirmed as the last word; and so forth.”


This was audience given by Venerable Paul VI in 1972.  How much deeper men have fallen and embraced the darkness of sin and error! What will it take to deliver us from it? The Divine intervention foretold at Fatima during the Miracle of the Sun? A purification by fire? 

Sts. Michael, Garbriel and Raphel

September 29th  was the Feast of Sts. Michael, Garbriel and Raphel. This years feast fell on Sunday and the Sunday Mass usually takes precedence. However, If you were fortunate enough to participate in the Extraordinary or Tridentine form of the Mass you were able to celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of St Michael the Archangel. A double First Class Feast  may take precedence over the Sunday Mass. St Michael had his day in Divine providence  this year in the Extraordinary form of the Liturgy!

Around  530 A.D., on September 29th , Pope Boniface II dedicated a church in the great circus, at Rome, to St. Michael the Archangel.   This particular Church was named after St. Michael to show the power of martyrdom and how it converted pagan Rome to the Christian faith. Previously in Italy, In the year 492, St Michael had appeared in a cave on Mt. Gargano in the region of  Foggia in the Kingdom of Naples. St. Francis of Assisi knelt at the entrance to the cave and could not bring himself to enter because of the holiness of the site.  St Michael appeared at Mt Gargano as the head of the heavenly army to remind us of that Great epic battle that took place in heaven at the beginning of time is still being fought today on Earth! 

The Hebrew meaning of Michael is, Who is like God, denoted the combat which took place in Heaven between the archangel and Lucifer. As we have fallen through sin into the power of satan it is St Michael’s mission along with our holy guardian angels to continue the fight for our deliverance.  And since Christ's coming the Church has ever venerated St. Michael as her special patron and protector. She invokes him by name in her confession of sin, summons him to the side of her children in the agony of death, and chooses him as their escort from the chastening flames of purgatory to the realms of holy light. 

When Antichrist shall have set up his kingdom on earth, it is Michael who will unfurl once more the standard of the Cross, sound the last trumpet, and binding together the false prophet and the beast, hurl them for all eternity into the burning pool.

The battle that took place in heaven at the beginning of time will wage on earth  until Christ returns and makes his enemies his footstool. Each human person will also have his choice in this same battle either for God and His will or for mans will. 

Holy Michael the archangel defend us in battle that we perish not in the dreadful judgement!--Amen. Maranatha-Come Lord Jesus


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