Spiritual Snippet - Let Go!

Archbishop Francois Fenelon

For my Lenten spiritual reading, I've selected the brilliant meditation guide called  Let Go (To Get Peace and Real Joy).  I happen to find this short little book on the bottom shelf at my local book store.  This is series of letters written in the seventeenth century by Archbishop Francois de Salignac de La Mothe Fenelon of Cambrai, France.  What a treasure trove of spiritual advice!!   It's exactly what I need to read.  It's almost as if Archbishop Fenelon sits in the same room with me, counseling me but through words written hundreds of years ago and originally in French!

I highly recommend buying a copy and keeping it near your prayer space.  Read a letter each day.  There are 40 letters in all, so perfect for 40 days of Lent.  The words are simple to understand; no heavy theology.  Through its simplicity is an amazing depth of wisdom.

Here are excerpts from Letter 16 titled "Those Who Injure Us Are to Be Loved and Welcomed as the Hand of God":

"I certainly sympathize with you in all of your troubles, but I can do nothing else for you except pray that God will comfort you.  Your have great need of the power of the Holy Spirit, both to sustain you in this time of trouble, and also to restrain you in your natural desire to find a way out......."

"Don't allow yourself to be upset by what people are saying about you. Let the world talk.  All you need to be concerned about is doing the will of God.  As for what people want, you can't please everybody, and it isn't worth the effort.  One quiet moment in the presence of God will more than repay you for every bit of slander that will ever be leveled against you."

"You must learn to love other people without expecting any friendship from them at all.  People tend to be quite fickle.  They love us and leave us, they go and come.  They shift from one position to another like a kite in the wind or like a feather in the breeze.  Let them do as they will.  Just be sure that you see only God in them. They could do nothing to you without His permission.  So, in the end, it is He that tests or blesses us, using them as we have need."

 Let Go, Let God!  What better way of handling our personal struggles in relationships and situations.  What if Fenelon lived in today's world?  Something to think about.....

Archbishop Fenelon, Pray for Us!!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Something Old Something New

Last week, after returning from vacation, I realized I lost my Miraculous Medal at the airport.  The chain came home with me but the pendant itself ...gone!  I owned the medal since 1998, after I first became Catholic, so I was deeply sad to see it lost.  A couple of friends mentioned that maybe the medal went missing for a divine reason:  Our Lord wanted it to go to someone else; perhaps a person struggling with a heavy burden desperately needed Immaculate Mary's intercession.

I've lost quite a number of religious items lately including my December issue of Magnificat with a tan leatherette cover.  It contained a few treasured prayers cards, including one I received the day after my confirmation.  Once again, something old and highly prized lost forever.  

I prayed to Saint Anthony for help finding my favorite Catholic sacramentals.  I imagine his reply: "My Dear Daughter, I'm sorry but these items cannot be found.  I trust God will position new and better objects in your path for your daily use."

I ordered a brand new Magnificat cover which looks much nicer than the old one.  As for the prayer cards, well, I plan to print off new ones from my home printer.  This past weekend I purchased a new Miraculous Medal from my local Catholic bookstore.  The clasp is much more secure, so hopefully it will stay close to my heart for years to come.   I discovered quite an array of Catholic books as I browsed the store; a number of them I plan to add to my reading list.

Something old, something new (along with something borrowed, something blue) is a tradition of a bride to be.  She adorns her wedding dress with an old heirloom, a new piece, a borrowed object, and something in the color blue.  I'm not sure where this tradition comes from, but I always see brides honoring the custom.  I remember at my best friend's wedding in Chicago many years ago she carried a beautiful blue rosary around her bouquet of flowers.  I just love the idea!

I think it's common to hold on to the old with a reluctance to venture into new territory.  We feel more comfortable and familiar with the old.  We may fear what the new will offer us.  Will be still be safe and secure?  Will we still be in control? What will the new give us that the old already does?

For instance, we keep our old junker car around because it's reliable and paid for.  A new car means higher insurance and a monthly payment!  We keep the old cell phone around, even if it's a dinosaur compared to the latest tech, because we know how to work it.  No need to learn a new device!  

When it comes to our spiritual lives, we tend to hold on to our old sinful habits, hesitant to convert into new holy habits. We go through life in an old endless cycle  of hopelessness and despair, or indifferent and apathy.  The "new" is seen as an impossible undertaking.

Many times when we take the leap of faith and try something new we find that we love it.  It's more satisfying that the old.  It's more spiritually fulfilling.  It allows us to grow closer to Christ.  Perhaps we've separated ourselves from God for way too long.  He's reached out to us, but it's just now that we grab on to his hand and walk along by His side!

Saint Anthony, Pray for Us!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- The Stages of the Ages (An Original Poem)

Since I turned 40 years old this year, I've thought a lot about aging. I don't know when God will take me from this earth, but I pray my death will be quick and peaceful.  I do not wish to die in agonizing pain.  A couple of my close acquaintances passed away this year.  I miss them terribly and wish they were still with us!  The Lord decided to collect their souls early.  What is God's criteria for taking a dead man's soul from this earth? Why does he allow some to die young and others die way into their 80's, 90's, and above?  I think those questions will always remain a mystery.......

I pray for those who have lost loved ones during this Holiday Season.  It's a particularly hard blow because it may be the only time of the year we see our families and friends.  

In my opinion, aging gracefully is one of the keys to internal happiness.  If we accept our bodies as God created them, with all of their age-related ailments and imperfections, we prevent so much useless worry. A time comes in life when we are simply not  teenagers anymore!  We must accept this fact and move forward.  Men will always be attracted to the young and the pretty; women likewise.  Our first inclination is to become jealous and resentful. No need for this!  Someone will always be older than us and younger than us. As Christians, we learn to accept others as children of God no matter their age group.

 How holy is youthfulness versus oldness? Both are just as holy. Not one is better than the other even if society thinks youthfulness is the gold star.  

Here's a poem I'd like to share on aging:

The Stages of the Ages (An Original Poem)

Youth is fleeting;

Aging is self-defeating;

Death is unappealing;

What's my stage in life?

I'm an awkward teen;

Miserable and moody;

Experiencing growing pains;

With limited duties.

I want to party;

I want to get high;

I'm smarter than everybody;

Top of my class.

I'm a twenty-something;

Graduated with a degree.

Pumped up with self-love;

For success is guaranteed!

Everybody praises me;

Enlarging my pride;

I go into the work force;

And expect an easy ride.

I can't slack off;

I can't get mad;

I have to work hard;

And keep my head out of  sand.

Now is the real world;

Where thank-yous are rare.

Just smile and be patient;

Life isn't  fair!

Middle age approaches;

Faster than it should.

The body slows down;

I feel misunderstood.

People dismiss me;

I guess I'm getting old.

Nobody wants to hire;

A health risk, that's for sure.

I'm full of wisdom;

Living for so long.

I know how to answer a question;

A youth will get wrong.

Crippled in a walker;

Unable to hardly move.

I've lived many decades;

And learned a thing or two.

Everybody ages;

Nobody can fight death.

We must live our lives;

With faith, love and respect.

Remember God our creator;

Throughout our stages in life.

He never abandons us;

In good times and in strife.

Aging gracefully is a virtue,

Something hard to accept;

Our skin will always wrinkle, 

As our bodies become inept;

Society will frown;

Deciding the old is trash.

This simply isn't true;

Age is wisdom with sass!

Don't let aging bring you down;

It happens to all  brethren;

Remember the ultimate goal of life;

To reach the beauty of heaven!

Mary, Mother of God, Pray for Us!

Amen!  

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- "Jesus, Help Me!" Prayer

Yesterday, I was excited to open a package I ordered from Amazon - a full volume set of "The Liturgy of the Hours."  I've always wanted one but couldn't afford to buy a new set, so I found a used one at a good price. 

As I was flipping through the pages of each book, I noticed the previous owner had inserted several prayer cards.  I considered this an added "bonus" knowing a crisp clean new set of books wouldn't contain such cards.  

One prayer card really struck an accord with me.  On the front is a black and white image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, similar to the picture above.  On the back are the words to the prayer:

JESUS, HELP ME!  

IN EVERY need let me come to Thee with humble trust, saying † Jesus, help me! 
In all my doubts, perplexities and temptations † Jesus, help me! 
 In hours of loneliness, weariness and trials † Jesus, help me! 
In the failure of my plans and hopes; in disappoints, troubles and sorrows † Jesus, help me! 
When others fail me, and Thy Grace alone can assist me † Jesus, help me! 
When I throw myself on Thy Tender Love as Father and Savior † Jesus, help me!  
When my heart is cast down by failure, at seeing no good come from my efforts † Jesus, help me!  
When I feel impatient, and my cross irritates me † Jesus, help me!  
When I am ill, and my head and hands cannot work and I am lonely † Jesus, help me! 
 Always, always, in spite of weakness, falls, and shortcomings over every kind † Jesus, help me and never forsake me!

This prayer could not be more applicable to my own life and the life of so many others.  I'm disappointed when things don't go the way I expect them to causing irritability.  My crosses, shortcomings, weakness, and constant falls wear me down.  I so want to be perfect in God's eyes; yet, I can't seem to quite get there.  I figure I won't ever in this short time on earth.  All I can do is keep trekking through the waters of suffering, praying  Jesus, Help Me!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet-- Songs of Angels (An Original Poem)

Once there was an angel who earned wings,

She was shy and quiet, scared of many things.

Why is she like this?  An archangel asked.

She's beautiful and angelic, a prize in God's eyes!

She's done good for the souls on earth,

Yet she feels bad, ashamed and hurt.

So many angels proudly sing,

Others play trumpets while bells ring.

She's not as talented, at least she once thought.

Until she joined the choir, her booming voice shouts.

Confidence at last! She said to herself.

Maybe being an angel is a huge perk.

I can help others in time and need,

With the Lord at my command at God's speed!

Never alone to do heavenly work,

A band of angels as my balancing framework!

No need to fear I'm not as good like the rest,

I've earned my wings now, it's time for a sing fest.

Songs of angels bring love and peace,

Beautiful voices proclaim God's majesty!

Amen.

Spiritual Snippet -- Fear of the Unknown (An Original Poem)

I lie awake at night;

With sweat tickling my face.

I worry about my life;

And what I will embrace.

Will I live to be old?

Will I always be alone?

Is there a chance at eternal happiness;

With the Lord of Heaven above?

I fear what lies ahead;

Uncertain of God's plan.

I think things are fine;

For now, I hope and pray.

 I'm not ready for crosses;

I cannot bear alone. 

I know Jesus is up there;

Will he hear my cries and moans?

I'm not always thrilled;

With the way life turns out.

I know I should feel blessed;

Instead I pity and pout.

Thinking woes is me;

Life is stinky and bad.

Not much to offer;

Why am I alive and sad?

Sad I don't have this; 

Resenting people with that;

Ill at ease with sentiment;

Doomed to fall flat.

Christ is the answer; 

I accept this welcoming truth;

Because I love Him so;

No need to hide and sleuth.

The Lord watches over me;

He knows my every move.

He understands my fears;

He does not disapprove.

But instead forgives and forgets;

The wrong I have done.

He loves me unconditionally;

He sees a pretty woman.

Created with a purpose; 

To share my gifts and talents.

Push away the fear;

Don't  guess God's plan.

Live in the present;

Keep Christ close at heart;

With a mighty Amen.

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Faith Burnout

I never thought I'd come to a point in my spiritual life when I'd experience faith burnout.   It sounds strange....  How can I become worn out from practicing the Catholic faith?  How can I question what faith truly means?  How can I one day be perfectly content with attending mass, praying the rosary, reading spiritual works, and engaging in volunteer activities but the next want to stop everything and move on to something else?

Just like working at a  job, our faith can grow stale and lifeless.  It appears like our prayers are never answered.  We attend mass each Sunday and see the same people with the same unending problems and annoyances.  During the liturgy, memorized prayers and habitual kneeling make it easy for our minds to drift to thoughts other than God.  We  think about our "To Do Lists" without listening to one word of the priest's homily! After we consume the Eucharist, we want to sneak out of Church as quickly as possible.  No time for the closing prayers or final hymn.  We've completed our Sunday obligation, and now it's time to move on with our lives.

When it comes to the Church's unwavering position against contraception, abortion, and gay marriage, we may begin to question if we are in the right religion at all!  Many of our Protestant brothers and sisters appear to be more accepting of societal trends whereas the Church won't budge one inch in its teachings.  The world is rapidly changing all around us; yet, the church appears to be decades behind.  It becomes frustrating, even "burnout inducing", to see very little signs of adaptability.  The Church doesn't mind being Arch Enemy #1 among people who disagree with her teachings.  The constant tug of war between what Christ desires and what Society prefers is exhausting!

We have to be careful when a bad case of faith burnout arises.  We may decide to quit going to Mass for just a few weeks.  We may decide to stop praying just for a few more weeks.  We may even consider visiting the non-denominational church a friend attends with the hopes that we may feel more welcomed and loved.  No more need for confession because we no longer have to feel guilty for sex out of marriage or contraception.  No more rigid "Catholic" rules to follow that only keeps us habitually stressed out and criticized by others who don't "think" the same way the Catholic Church thinks.

I've battled burnout in terms of religion for the past few months.  I decided to visit an Episcopalian Church with the idea that it's as close to Catholicism as one can get.  I'd check it out to see if it's a right fit for me.  Then I thought about it further.... I wouldn't be able to take the Eucharist in the Episcopalian Church.  What about Mary and the rosary?  Those are so special to me; however, none of the Protestant faiths take it as seriously.  It looked like the uptown Episcopalian Church would be fun with tons of social activities and a demographic of young people my age.  Certainly families with 4,5 + kids wouldn't be the norm and the elderly wouldn't be the majority in attendance.  Boy, was I thinking totally off-kilter......

The Catholic Church is where I'm supposed to be!  Just because I'm a little burnout with the same liturgy, the same people, and the same volunteer activities doesn't mean I should just quit Catholicism completely.  I need to pray to our Lord for the strength to pull me out of this blahness, seeing  the faith from a new perspective.  I've spent 16 years of my life devoted to Catholicism.  I try to imagine myself anything but Catholic and just can't do it.

I think the Devil loves to tempt us away from faith.  He wants boredom and annoyance to take over our minds and hearts so we will quit going to Church.  Jump on the modern society bandwagon where everything goes.  Not so fast!  In times of faith burnout, we must creatively find ways to get through it.  Attend a retreat.  Volunteer for a new ministry.  Pray a Holy Hour in front of the Blessed Sacrament.  Read scriptures on faith in general. I find every time I pray the rosary, holding those beautiful rosary beads in my hand, I'm drawn back into the arms of Christ.  The thoughts of leaving the Catholic Church vanish.

We all experience "faith burnout" in one way or another.  Through fervent prayer it can be overcome. Don't give up on the Catholic Church!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Thoughts on Suicide

One Sunday morning I arrived at 7:30 am Mass to hear the devastating news that one our ushers committed suicide.  A parishioner found his body inside his home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.  We were in total shock.  This gentleman attended mass every Sunday.  He dressed well and always greeted people with a smile.  He didn't look like he was in pain or show signs of mental illness.   We didn't think anything of it when he turned in his church keys the weekend before.  He simply stated he wouldn't be around much longer.  People stop volunteering for one reason or another. We just thought this was the case.  We had no idea he planned to kill himself.

Suicide is an uncomfortable word.  It's hard to say without feeling a lump in the throat.  It's difficult to hear about, especially if it's someone we love who decided to take his own life.  It's impossible to fully understand why anyone could decide death is the answer to problems.

Suicide is a selfish act in itself.   We hear about people who kill themselves commit a grave mortal sin and they are destined for Hell automatically.  But, is this really true?  Doesn't God know the difference between suicide due to depression vs. suicide as a form of mass destruction?

Teenagers kill themselves because they can no longer endure bullying. The suicide bomber frequently makes news headlines in a terrorist attack, killing himself as an disturbing act of God.  Then, there is the celebrity, like Robin Williams, wealthy and talented who no longer can stand the pressure of stardom. Depression drove him to hang himself.

Here is what the Catechism of the Catholic Church says about suicide:

2281    Suicide contradicts the natural inclination of the human being to preserve and perpetuate his life. It is gravely contrary to the just love of self. It likewise offends love of neighbor because it unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity with family, nation, and other human societies to which we continue to have obligations. Suicide is contrary to love for the living God. (2212)

282    If suicide is committed with the intention of setting an example, especially to the young, it also takes on the gravity of scandal. Voluntary co-operation in suicide is contrary to the moral law. (1735)

Grave psychological disturbances, anguish, or grave fear of hardship, suffering, or torture can diminish the responsibility of the one committing suicide.

2283    We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance. The Church prays for persons who have taken their own lives. (1037)

Those who have committed suicide do have a chance at repentance!  They are not doomed to suffer in the fires of hell.  I've known a few people, including a distant relative, who killed themselves.  I always hoped and prayed they'd be forgiven by God. 

 So many times people lose the will to live because of depression.  Their lives center around darkness. They don't understand that God has give them such a beautiful gift.  All they see is pain, anger, and hurt.  Personally, I've struggled with suicidal thoughts.  It's very scary when the mind goes into the dark abyss where all the good things in life suddenly appear bad.  What I've discovered that the best way to get my mind off of death is to pray to God.  Refocus my thoughts on his love and mercy.  Make a point of getting busy living!  Exercise, socialize, and intellectualize.  Writing down my thoughts on this blog helps wonders, too.  

Are you feeling suicidal?  Don't give up!  There are so many people willing to help with those thoughts that don't seem to go away quite easily.  Talk with a priest, a trusted friend, or a counselor.  Get on medication if needed.  Always remember God loves you and wants you to be healthy spiritually, physically and emotionally.

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- The Plight of the Migrant Child

 

My heart aches for the thousands of children who've crossed the Texas border in a brave effort to escape gang violence and poverty rampant in Central America.  They've endured intense fear and uncertainty.  Will they make it to the US border alive?  Will young girls shield themselves from sexual assault and rape?  Will young boys out-manuever the gangs so ready to force them into a life of crime?  It's lonely and dangerous fleeing from violence to the Land of Freedom.  Unfortunately, America's lack of efficient immigration policy and reform selects to automatically deport "illegal" immigrants, including innocent children, instead of welcoming and protecting them as refugees. They may not make it back to their homeland alive if they are deported! These natives of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador are knocking at the border fence desperate for help and mercy.  These innocent children have no family to care for them.  Maybe their mother and father died.  Maybe their brothers and sisters were forced to work in a drug gang.  Or, maybe the family took the risk, allowing their child escape from the poverty and violence for a chance to start over in America. 

One thing I don't understand is this:  America is quick to threaten military strikes on Middle Eastern.  We are quick to protect the freedoms of the Iraq people.  However, we appear  to ignore the gangs and corrupt governments of countries south of the border.  No oil money is involved, so of course we adopt a "It's your problem" mentality. No wonder some Americans say:  Keep the foreigner out!  Our country is already too crowded with people who refuse to speak English! They take away all of our jobs.  Throw them out and let them deal with their own troubles!   Until we eliminate corruption and violence in these countries, we will experience the problem of illegal immigration.  Clear and simple.  Immigration reform is necessary and vital for our nation.  I wish Congress would stop all of the bickering and come up with a bi-partisan solution.  

I think more immigrants prefer to stay in their native country if it was safe and secure.  Adapting to American culture is no easy task, especially living among people who think negatively, often loathing  different cultures.  I remember in the early 1900's when immigrants from Italy, Ireland and other European companies traveled by ship to New York.  They desired a chance for a fresh new  start.  They were "illegal" immigrants at some point but managed to establish successful lives despite ongoing discrimination and prejudice.

Also, I think of the Israelites who escaped Egypt for the Promise Land.  They were clearly illegal immigrants when they arrived in Israel.  They weren't kicked out and deported back to Egypt.  They were given a new chance at a life free from slavery, violence and abuse.  Why can't we do the same for the Central American immigrants, especially the homeless children?

Thank God for Catholic Charities, the American Red Cross, and other non-profits who care for these refugees.  I pray the new immigrants be given the legal resources necessary to stay in this country.  In the meantime, our government needs to make a diligent effort to engage in peace talks with the Central American countries. Develop ways to eliminate crime and corruption.  Find ways to help elevate the poverty so people won't need to flee to America.  I know this is a lot to task for, but I think it can be done.  

As Christians, we should accept and welcome the immigrant, especially if he or she is escaping poverty, violence or persecution.  Don't cast them aside and send them home!  Welcome them with loving arms.  Care for them and give them the healing they so deserve. Continue to pray for the end of corruption and violence in our Central American countries.

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Preferential Prayer: I Will Pray For You Only If....

When busyness overwhelms both my personal and work life, prayer takes a seat in a back corner.  I feel guilty when I don't spend quality time with the Lord...And then I obsess over the devout people I know who always make the time for fruitful prayer.  They are joyful and fun.  They are never morose or down on themselves.  They have this inner peace in their overall demeanor.  I love to be around them and speak to them on a regular basis.  Yet, in my own heart I feel like I can't measure up.  Resentment builds.  As a result, my rather pitiful prayers become dry and fruitless.  It's as if the devil takes a hold of my natural inclination toward low self worth, setting up a minefield in my thick skull:  "My gosh that young woman is  fantastic.  Everybody loves her and thinks she's so special and a prized treasure.  She's always smiling and so full of life!"  Then, the  most AWFUL thought comes to mind:  "Why should I ever pray for her?  She's already saintly and so loved. My prayers won't make a bit of good! In fact, I secretly wish I had her beautiful  life.  She's such an admirable Catholic who can do no wrong!"  

What is preferential prayer?  This is when we pray for someone based on specific conditions and bias.  If we like someone, and are close to them personally, then we will pray for them without any reservation.  However, if we hate someone  with a passion then we may pray for them out of Christian principle, but these prayers lack heartfelt sincerity.

I think the deadliest form of preferential prayer is when we refuse to pray for someone we envy or harbor resentment against.  Automatically we think they are "goody two shoes" and snarl at the thought of their presence.  Why pray for someone who is already loved and admired?  Why pray for someone who is popular and can do no wrong?  Why pray for someone who is already a natural Saint? Why pray for someone everybody else thinks is a God-send, flowering with natural humility?

Jesus NEVER, EVER wanted us to pray with conditions attached.  When we pray, we must pray for everybody regardless of our own prejudices.  Our prayers should be sincere and focused on the good of the other person.  The Devil loves to make us think prayer is a worthless use of brain power! In fact, he will throw distractions in our path to prevent us from praying! We must fight this temptation.  We must rid ourselves of envy and prejudice we harbor against someone else we may "think" is perfect but struggles just like the rest of us. 

The woman who goes to Daily Mass, always smiling  and so friendly may be suffering from loneliness....She needs prayers.

The young college student on the mission trip who makes straight A's, nominated as class president, and loved by everybody for her natural sweetness may be thinking about committing suicide....She needs  prayers.

The drunk on the bus ride  to work who sits by you every day who stinks to high heaven.  Why won't he disappear? ...He needs prayers.

The co-worker who got offered the position you applied for is going through a financial crisis.....He needs prayers.

The parish priest who is so popular and loved by everybody for his charisma and natural sense of empathy may be struggling with his vocation.....He needs prayers.

"I will pray for you only if..." should never cross our minds as faithful Christians.  Yes, at times we struggle with our prayer life.  Maybe we cannot form the right words.  Maybe we experience difficulty concentrating while praying the rosary. Maybe we are flat out angry and don't give a flip about prayer!  This is when we should turn to God at our moment of weakness.  Drop everything that we are doing and get down on our knees.  Block out the negative thoughts and ask our Lord for guidance.  Think one good thought about somebody:  a friend, a person you envy, or an enemy.  Lift that praise up to Christ!

When times are tough and it feels like my prayer life is scorching out in the hot desert, I need to make a strong effort to get out of my own self!  Think of others.  Pray for others regardless of what I may think about them.  What I think isn't necessarily the truth.  What I think may be far from the truth.  What I think is nonsense compared to what the Lord thinks.  The Lord thinks all of his created beings are beautiful and worthy of love!  Our own sinful nature corrupts that belief.  We can change our prayer patterns at any instant.  It just takes resolve and determination.  Our Lord is there to guide, as always.

Stay away from preferential prayer and move towards heartfelt, sincere and fruitful prayer!  It can be done.  We just have to take the time out of the busyness of our lives, erase the envy and resentment, and PRAY!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

This week I received a catalog in the mail from Hope Publications, an apostolate of the Lay Dominicans of Saint Martin de Porres and Catholics United for Life.  As a flipped through it, I noticed a page listing books about Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.  I was not familiar with Pier Giorgio, so I decided to research a little more about him.  His handsome looks definitely sparked my interest!

Pier Giorgio was born on April 6, 1901 in Turin, Italy to a prominent middle-class family.  His father was a journalist and his mother a painter.  His father, founder of Turin's La Stampa daily newspaper (still in existence today), became a Senator in Italian parliament as well as an Italian Ambassador to Germany.  Pier Giorgio was very close to his younger sister, Luciana.  (Luciana passed away in 2007 at the age of 105!)  

From a young age, Pier Giorgio radiated charisma, faith, humor and leadership.  He was an avid mountain climber and skier.  He loved literature and art, penning hundreds of letters over the course of his short life.  Many times after spending a beautiful day mountain climbing, he'd make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament.  

Pier Giorgio was deeply devoted to Christ and saw a need to help the poor.  He became a Catholic youth activist often bringing attention to the plights of factory workers during a time period of great suffering and social distress.  He lived during the era of World War I and the rise of communism and facism.

He became as a member of the Third Order of St. Dominic (the equivalent of today's Lay Dominicans).  Along with his studies, he centered his life around prayer and the Eucharist. He always carried with him a small pocket book of scripture, including Saint Paul's letters.  Many times he'd give train tickets and articles of his own clothing to the poor in the streets.  His actions are very reminiscent of Saint Dominic himself!

Pier Giorgio could've decided to become an entepreneur like his father but decided to enter the Polytechnic University at Turin to study mining.  He saw the miners as a group suffering in oppressive working and living conditions.  He believed he could "serve Christ better among the miners" by becoming a miner himself.

At the age of 24, he contracted polio and died within 3 days of exposure.  Most likely he had contracted the virus from one of the poor he served regularly. Pier Giorgio's parents had no idea what an impact their son had on the people in Turin.  At his funeral, thousands of the poor came to pay their respects! These same poor people later helped start the process toward sainthood.

Pier Giorgio wrote in a letter to a friend:

"...every day I understand better what a Grace it is to be Catholics.  Poor unlucky those who don't have a Faith:  to live without a Faith, without a patrimony to defend, without a steady struggle for the Truth, is not living but is just getting along.  We must never just get along but live, because even through every disappointment we should remember that we are the only ones who possess the truth, we have a Faith to sustain, a Hope to attain:  our Homeland."

Pier Giorgio is remembered by the phrase "Verso l'alto" meaning "Toward the heights."  The patron of youth, his feast day is celebrated on the Dominican calender on July 4th.

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, Pray for Us!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- A Culture of Comfort

My comments & opinion on the following article:

Pope blames "culture of comfort" for intentionally childless marriages (June 2, 2014)  


Recently in a General Audience, Pope Francis commented on the state of marriages. He blames the "culture of comfort" on people intentionally forgoing children for the pursuit of travel and carefree living.  He sparked controversy, especially among Animal rights advocates, when he said people think it's much easier "to have a puppy, two cats, and the love goes to two cats and the puppy.  Isn't this true or not? Have you seen this?...And in the end this marriage will end in the old age of solitude, with the bitterness of bad solitude."

Personally, I was taken aback by the Pope's reference to cats and dogs!  I can see why Animal Rights advocates are shaking their heads in disagreement.  In their minds, cats and dogs (pets in general) should be given the same rights as humans.  They should be respected, cared for, and never consumed as food.  Some Animal Rights advocates go so far as to value an animal over a human child.  Clearly the Pope recognizes a trend, particularly in marriages where couples decide to raise pups and kittens instead of babies.

I think the point Pope Francis was trying to make is that married couples should not enter into marriage in selfish, self serving ways.  Married couples should be open to life and not only creature comforts.  There needs to be a willingness to bond with one another, love one another, and relate to one another, mutually fulfilling each others needs.  The Sacrament of Marriage includes the willingness to be open to conceiving and raising children: Real human children and not only pets.

Why get married if a couple isn't open to having children?  Is marriage only something to get into for convenience and financial security?

On the flip side, I can see many reasons why a couple may decide to not have children.  Perhaps they are financially unable to care for a child or multiple children.  Children are expensive.  Weigh the amount of money to raise a child to the age of 18 (plus college tuition) against raising a cat and dog to the age of 10-15 years.  Understandably pets are less expensive.

Secondly, a couple may decide not to have children due to genetic abnormalities or mental health issues that could be passed down in their offspring.  Sometimes a woman may be able to conceive but she is unable to carry a child to term without significant health concerns.

Finally, a couple may decide to forgo children because they marry later in life.  This is a very common trend in today's society.  A couple may decide to marry in their mid to late 40's when having a child is no longer possible.

Overall, I see the idea of a "culture of comfort" affecting all states in life, not just marriage.  In fact, singles often are so set in their own ways and their own comforts that they decide to NEVER get married because then they have to share themselves, often dealing with another person's vices. Married life is tough.

The Pope's words are very interesting.  I can see both sides of the debate.  In terms of the Catholic Church's teachings, its important for marriage to be taken seriously and not seen as something of a convenience.  A married couple's creature comforts should never trump sacrifice and pure love-- Love that includes an openness to children if there is not viable reason not to.

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Easter Reflections

Happy Easter!  Wow!  I can't believe how fast Lent went by this year.  Easter is one of those special days we spend with close family and friends.  We attend church services wearing our Easter dresses and suits.  We join our friends and family for a nice meal. We may even join our children in an Easter egg hunt or dye eggs together.  It's a day of joy and happiness!  It's a day we honor Our Lord.

Nature's beauty The weather here in Dallas has been gorgeous. The last remains of Old Man winter have passed with plenty of sunshine and a few April showers bringing us much needed rain.  Bees are pollinating my English lavender bushes while my "wild" rose bush is beginning to bloom.  As I see Spring awakening all around me, I think of Mary Magdalene beside the empty tomb weeping and mourning.  But, then she is overjoyed when she realizes Jesus' resurrection.

 Amazing!  Miraculous!  All that Jesus said was true!

A special priestly touch I must say the highlight of this past weekend's Easter liturgies was the Holy Saturday Vigil.  Our pastor put together a beautiful mass.  I felt so proud to participate in the celebration.  At one point during the confirmation ceremony, a pregnant woman walked up to the front to receive the sacramental oil.  After our pastor placed the sign of the cross on the woman's forehead, he  motioned the sign of the cross over her small "baby bump"!  I just happen to see this gesture from where I was seated.  Nobody else behind him would have noticed.  I thought, "God is good! This woman will always remember the special attention our pastor gave to her unborn child on such a special occasion."

Pennies for the Trinity I just so happen to find three lucky pennies this weekend!  Two in the Target parking lot and one in the church parking lot. Pennies are a rare find these days, especially in our growing cashless society, so I didn't simply discard the little pieces of copper.  I thought of these pennies as an awesome reminder of the Holy Trinity!  I felt like the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have been guiding me as I busily prepared for the Triduum liturgies.

Birthday Blitz  Today is my 40th birthday.  Nice that it's occurring around Easter this year.  Some years it actually falls on Easter Sunday.  I've already received about 20 Facebook "Happy Birthday" posts.  My coworker decorated my cubicle with a birthday banner and balloons.  Even Google has a "Happy Birthday, Jennifer!" on my search home page with images of cupcakes.  I received a free cup of coffee at the gas station even though I think this was on accident.  (The lady just forgot to charge me.)  Yesterday my family cooked me a nice meal with plenty of vegetables since I've gone back on my vegetarian diet.  Of course, the fun part is receiving a load of birthday cash!  I've already spent it on some beauty products.  Need to keep my "looks" up since I'm now officially over the hill...

I thank Our Lord for blessing me with another birthday!  Life is so precious. Some people don't even live to be 20, 30 or even age 40.  I now have a new found wisdom that I didn't possess even five years ago.  Even though my body is aging, I'm trying to keep my mind sharp.  Praying, meditating, reading sacred scripture, reading the writings of the saints, and learning more about my faith really helps along in the aging process.  

Saint Mary Magdalene, Pray for Us!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Carry A Pocket-Sized Gospel!

This past Sunday, after his Angelus address, Pope Francis handed out pocked-sized gospels to  pilgrims visiting St. Peter's Square. What a beautiful and holy gesture!  

Pope Francis shared the following words with the crowd:

"During the last few Sundays I have suggested to all of you to obtain a small copy of the Gospel, to carry with you during the day, so you can read it frequently. Then I thought of an ancient tradition of the Church during Lent, of giving the Gospel to catechumens, and to those who are preparing for Baptism. So, today I wish to offer you, here in the square – but as a sign to all – a pocket-sized Gospel. It will be distributed free. … And like Him, I say to you, freely you have received, freely give – give the message of the Gospel! … Let us do something: in exchange for this give, carry out an act of charity, a gesture of love, freely given; a prayer for enemies, reconciliation, something. Today we can also read the Gospel using many technological instruments. You can carry the entire Bible around with you in a smartphone, in a tablet. The important thing is to read the Word of God, by any means – read the Word of God, is it Jesus who is speaking to you!”

Saint Dominic used to always carry a book of the Gospel of Matthew and the letters of Saint Paul everywhere he traveled.  He felt studying and reflecting on scripture was essential to effective preaching!

I remember when the Gideon bibles used to be passed out in local churches and street corners.  Of course, with so much anti-religious sentiment in our culture these days, the poor Gideons would be cursed and yelled at.  Some people think the bible should be tossed aside unread.  I mean, it advocates good moral living and love for our enemies which is so foreign in our secular environment.  Pope Francis makes it very clear that we should read the gospels regularly and allow Jesus to speak to us on an intimate level!  

There's really no excuse not to read the bible.  So many apps are available on our smartphones and tablets which can quickly link us to scripture.  I like to visit the readings of the days through the USCCB website.  Also, one of the best free phone apps for the Liturgy of the Hours and scripture readings of the day is iBreviary.  

Let us take the Holy Father's advice and immerse ourselves in the message of the Gospel!  The bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and knowledge.  Don't think of it as boring reading but nourishing food for the soul!

-J.

Spiritual Snippet -- Why I am Pro-Life

On Saturday, the Catholic Pro-Life Committee of the Diocese of Dallas will host The Bishop's 21st Annual Catholic Pro-Life Dinner.  It is one of my favorite charity fundraising events.  Attendance grows each year with wonderful speakers and incredible witness.  In 2013, the CPLC  saved a record of over 900 babies!  Praise God!  The message of love, compassion, and healing is clearly being heard loud and clear.  There's something so positive about being pro-life.....   


The pro-life movement is an invigorating, empowering, and compassionate mission supported by God himself. Our Lord loves all of his children no matter what the circumstances.

 Before I converted to Catholicism, I was very pro-choice. In fact, it took me a couple of years as a newbie Catholic to finally understand the realities behind the abortion business.  I erroneously thought Planned Parenthood as a harmless medical alternative for poor women who couldn't afford annual pap smears and mammograms.  For years, I donated money to the Susan G. Komen Foundation not realizing donations go to PP and the "side business" of abortions. I was shocked to learn the abortion and breast cancer connection.  Moreover, since I never knew of anyone personally who had an abortion I had a hard time empathizing with the suffering and pain post-abortive women experience.  I couldn't relate.  All of the media propaganda drilled into my head that abortion was safe with no lingering after-effects.  Boy was I ignorantly misinformed!

 Sadly, especially in my college years, I used to believe women had the right (almost a "God given right") to choose.  No government, religious group, and certainly no man, should dictate what a woman should do with her body...

 How barbaric!  How sexist!  How degrading of women not to have a right!   I certainly wouldn't want to go around barefoot and preggo all of the time cooking and cleaning for some man!  Women's lib is here to stay!  Women shouldn't be subjected to abortion in some dark backdoor alley with no proper medical care.  Legalized abortion protects women.  Abortion is for rare cases only.

(A long time ago I fell for the lies......)

It made me sick to think some woman would ruin their lives forever taking care of some illegitimate child with no spousal support, no chance at finishing school or moving up the career ladder.   At times, I even considered the abortion option if I ever was stupid enough to get myself pregnant.  (I contracepted for years.)  I selfishly didn't  think about the fetus in the womb and how maybe he or she would rather choose to live than die!  So many people are unable to have children yet I felt I had the "right" to kill my own unborn child?  It doesn't make a whole lot of sense especially when so many people are available to help a woman in a crisis pregnancy. 

A woman no longer has to hide in shame....  A woman no longer has to give into pressure to abort.... A woman no longer has to become financially incapacitated if she chooses to keep her baby... A woman no longer has to wear the stigma of being an unwed mother... .A woman can continue to live a good life with her child! 

Help is available!

So, why am I pro-life?  What made me change my position?  As I've grown closer to  Christ, I've developed a love for everyone no matter if she or he is a microscopic human newly implanted in the womb, suffers from mental retardation, or is elderly and bedridden in a nursing home. 

I cannot simply choose who should live or who should die.  It's up to Our Lord to make that decision!  He created us in his image and likeness so he chooses if and when we will die.  

I think about the future doctors who'd make incredible advances in medicine today if their mothers didn't turn to abortion.  I think of geniuses who'd invent even more amazing things technology-wise if their mothers had allowed their babies to live.  I think of political figures, gifted musicians, artists, writers, etc. etc. who'd all make amazing contributions to society if their mothers had only chosen life instead of death.

Let us continue to pray for the pro-life movement!  Join a pro-life group at your parish.  Attend a fundraising event for a local crisis pregnancy center.  Sidewalk counsel in front of an abortion center.  Pray for the unborn.  Show love and compassion for pregnant women who may be confused and don't know what to do!

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you..."  (Jeremiah 1:5)

-J.