ICEMANforChrist

Saturday, November 29, 2025

NOVEMBER 29 Saturday in the Octave of Christ the King

Vigil Of St. Andrew-33 days

I urge you, [brothers,] by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the LOVE of the Spirit, to join me in the struggle by your prayers to God on my behalf, that I may be delivered from the disobedient in Judea, and that my ministry for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the holy ones, so that I may come to you with joy by the will of God and be refreshed together with you.

Paul was asking for the prayers of his friends in Christ and so I ask your prayers also for the success of this ministry. Our church is great in that we have a multitude of assistance from others if we only ask. Christ tells us to ask and we shall receive. Be not afraid nor humble enough to ask if you are struggling. Did not our Lord accept the help of Simon in carrying his cross; if our Lord who had the assistance of legions of angels humbly accepted Simons help, should we act proud when we know we need help; so, I ask your help with this ministry.

God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid.

Copilot’s Take

On this Saturday in the Octave of Christ the King, standing at the Vigil of St. Andrew, Paul’s words in Romans 15 remind us that ministry is never carried alone but upheld by the prayers of the faithful. Just as Christ accepted Simon’s help in carrying the cross, so too must we embrace humility and ask for support when the weight of our calling feels heavy. Prayer becomes the bond that refreshes and strengthens, weaving us into communion with one another and with God. To ask for help is not weakness but confidence in the Spirit’s power working through the Body of Christ. With this assurance, we can echo Paul’s hope: that our service may be acceptable to God, our journey filled with joy, and our hearts refreshed together in His saving love.

Saturday in the Octave of Vinny’s Corner Tomorrow is the end of the church year

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)

· How to celebrate Nov 29th

o National Square Dancing Day invites you to have a hoedown wherever you are – just kick up your heels and dance!

§ Back in the day (1960’s) square dancing was a class in public schools in Arizona

o International Jaguar Day advocates for wildlife conservation; research ways to protect endangered species.

o Electronic Greetings Day is perfect for reaching out to friends and family online

o Maize Day celebrates an essential crop; try your hand at cooking with corn or visit a local farm.

§ National Lemon Cream Pie Day challenges you to bake a zesty dessert.

· National Chocolates Day is a sweet indulgence – treat yourself to a decadent chocolate dessert or host a tasting party.

o Lastly, Throw Out Your Leftovers Day encourages a fridge cleanout and creative leftover recipes. Embrace the spirit of these unique holidays by adapting activities to fit your interests and resources.

Pilgrimage

🌿 St. Teresa & Spanish Mysticism – Ávila

& Segovia, Spain

Dates: November 30–December 6, 2025
Theme: Interior Prayer, Reform, and Mystical Union

St. Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582), Doctor of the Church and founder of the Discalced Carmelites, transformed Christian spirituality through her writings and reforms. This week traces her footsteps through cloisters, cathedrals, and mystical landscapes, inviting pilgrims to enter the silence where God speaks.

🗓️ Daily Itinerary & Symbolic Acts

Nov 30: Arrival in Ávila

· 🕍 Symbolic Act: “City of the Soul”
Begin with a walk along the Walls of Ávila, praying for protection of the interior life.

· 🛏️ Stay: Hostal El Rincón or Palacio de los Velada

Dec 1: Birthplace of St. Teresa

· 🕊️ Symbolic Act: “Mystic Dawn”
Visit the Church & birthplace of Saint Teresa of Jesus, offering prayers for spiritual renewal and courage in reform.

Dec 2: Cathedral & Cloistered Wisdom

· 🕍 Symbolic Act: “Stone Interior”
Reflect in the Catedral de Ávila

, built into the city walls. Its austere beauty invites contemplation of the soul’s fortress.

Dec 3: Monastic Depths

· 🏛️ Symbolic Act: “Reform and Silence”
Visit the Royal Monastery of Santo Tomás, where Dominican and mystical traditions converge. Pray for reformers and contemplatives.

Dec 4: Romanesque Roots

· 🕍 Symbolic Act: “Ancient Flame”
Pause at San Vicente de Ávila, honoring the early martyrs and the continuity of mystical witness.

Dec 5: Segovia – Final Resting Place

· 🕊️ Symbolic Act: “Mystic Benediction”
Travel to Segovia and visit the Catedral de Segovia, then walk to the Carmelite convent where St. John of the Cross is buried. Offer prayers for mystical union and poetic clarity.

Dec 6: Segovia – Templar Echoes

· 🏰 Symbolic Act: “Circle of Courage”
Visit the Iglesia de la Vera Cruz,

a 12-sided church built by the Knights Templar. Pray for courage in spiritual battle and clarity in vocation.

💶 Cost Breakdown (Per Person)

Category	Budget (USD)	Mid-Range (USD)
Lodging (6 nights)	$180–$300	$360–$600
Meals	$90–$150	$180–$300
Transport	$30–$60	$60–$120
Sightseeing & Tips	$30–$60	$60–$120
Total Estimate	$330–$570	$660–$1,140

The Supper of Interior Castles

🥖 First Mansion – Bread with Olive Oil and Salt

🍲 Second Mansion – Lentil Soup with Herbs

🐟 Third Mansion – Grilled Fish with Lemon

🥗 Fourth Mansion – Greens with Pomegranate Seeds

🍯 Fifth Mansion – Honey-Glazed Chicken with Rosemary

🍷 Sixth Mansion – Red Wine Risotto with Mushrooms

🌹 Seventh Mansion – Almond Cake with Rosewater

· Meditate on the virtues of Mary (Humility, Generosity, Chastity, Patience, Temperance, Understanding/love and Wisdom. One for each day.

· attend Mass daily or via EWTN or the internet

· Fast doing the Daniel fast (Monday-Saturday).

· Exercise-Universal Man Plan.

Life a gift^{^[1]}

God does not require anyone to pass an exam to merit birth. Life is a gift from our creator via our parents. A child is not a trophy but a gift. Families are a communion of people essential to understanding love. At the same time, the family home can often be a scene of pain as well. We experience death through the self-taking of the world through greed, manipulation, indulgence, and infatuation, which masquerade as love.

Wounded, we begin to shy away from the gift, to be coerced into choosing to fear rather than love. Attacks on marriage and the family, such as same-sex unions, no fault-divorce, free love, cohabitation, pornography, and adultery are attacks on love itself and the very identity of the human person. Healing means returning to the original form of love we were meant to learn as children. The gift of self makes love visible. As long as conflicts/anger are buried, they do not heal. Yet our hearts long for love which is our first memory. Love is the authentic surrender of self for the good of the other. A fundamental truth of Christ and the Catholic Church is this “Culture of Life” which stems from love.

Mass Proper’s for the Vigil of St. Andrew:

INTROIT. Dominus secus mare. St. Matt. 4.

JESUS our Lord walking by the sea of Galilee saw two brethren, Peter and Andrew, and he called them saying: Follow me; and I will make you fishers of men. Ps. 19. The heavens declare the glory of God: and the firmament sheweth his handy work.

V. Glory be.

COLLECT.

GRANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God: that as we do prevent the festival of thy holy Apostle Saint Andrew, so he may implore thy mercy for us; that we, being delivered from all our iniquities, may likewise be defended against all adversities. Through.

EPISTLE Ecclus. 44: 25-27; 45, 2-4; 6-9 1-6

Lesson from the Book of Wisdom. The blessing of the Lord was upon the head of the just man. Therefore, the Lord gave him an inheritance, and divided him his portion in twelve tribes:

and he found grace in the eyes of all flesh. He magnified him in the fear of his enemies, and with his words He made prodigies to cease. He glorified him in the sight of kings and gave him commandments in the sight of his people and showed him His glory. He sanctified him in his faith and meekness and chose him out of all flesh. And He gave him commandments before His face, and a law of life and instruction: and He exalted him. He made an everlasting covenant with him and girded him about with a girdle of justice: and the Lord crowned him with a crown of glory. Thanks be to God.

GOSPEL John 1: 35-51

At that time, John stood, and two of his disciples: and beholding Jesus walking, he saith, "Behold the Lamb of God." And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. And Jesus turning, and seeing them following Him, He saith to them,

"What seek you?"

Who said to Him, "Rabbi (which is to say, being interpreted, Master), where dwellest Thou?"

He saith to them, "Come and see." They came, and saw where He abode, and they stayed with Him that day: now it was about the tenth hour. And Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who had heard of John, and followed him. He findeth first his brother Simon, and saith to him, "We have found the Messias" (which is, being interpreted, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus; and Jesus, looking upon him, said, "Thou art Simon the son of Jona; thou shalt be called Cephas," which is interpreted, Peter. On the following day, He would go forth into Galilee: and He findeth Philip. And Jesus saith to him, "Follow Me." Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip findeth Nathamel, and saith to him, "We have found Him of Whom Moses in the law and the prophets did write, Jesus, the son of Joseph of Nazareth." And Nathanæl saith of him,

"Can anything of good come from Nazareth?"

Philip saith to him, "Come, and see." Jesus saw Nathanæl coming to Him: and He said to him, "Behold an Isrælite indeed, in whom there is no guile." Nathanæl saith to Him,

Whence knowest Thou me?

Jesus answered, and said to him, "Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig-tree, I saw thee." Nathanæl answered Him, and said, "Rabbi, Thou art the Son of God, Thou art the King of Isræl." Jesus answered, and said to him, "Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig-tree, thou believest: greater things than these shalt thou See." And He saith to him, "Amen, amen I say to you, you shall see the Heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man."

OFFERTORY. Ps. 8.

Thou hast crowned him with glory and worship: thou hast made him to have dominion of the works of thy hands, O Lord.

SECRET.

GRANT, O Lord, that this oblation, which we, remembering the festival of thy blessed Apostle Saint Andrew, do offer to be hallowed unto thee, may likewise avail to the cleansing of our souls from all evil.

COMMUNION. St. John 1:41.

Andrew saith unto his brother Simon: We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ: and he brought him to Jesus.

POSTCOMMUNION.

O LORD, who hast vouchsafed to feed us with these holy sacraments, we humbly pray thee: that, at the intercession of thy holy Apostle Saint Andrew, the mysteries which we have offered in remembrance of his glorious passion may be profitable unto us for the healing of our souls.

33 days to Christmas-Start the 33 days to Eucharistic Glory[2]

Want to start a small group? Download our 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory Study Guide

Day 8

On this 8^th day, seek with all your heart to be faithful Christ as a bride is to her husband

Copilot:

Committing yourself to be faithful to Christ with the devotion of a bride to her husband is a profound and beautiful dedication. Here are some ways to nurture and strengthen this commitment:

Deepen Your Relationship with Christ

Prayer: Engage in regular, heartfelt prayer, speaking to Christ as you would to a beloved spouse. Share your joys, sorrows, and daily experiences.
Scripture Reading: Spend time reading and meditating on the Bible, especially passages that emphasize Christ’s love and faithfulness.

Participate in Sacraments and Worship

Eucharist: Regularly partake in the Eucharist, experiencing the intimate communion with Christ that it offers.
Confession: Seek reconciliation through the sacrament of confession, maintaining a pure and faithful heart.

Live Out Your Faith Daily

Acts of Love: Show Christ’s love through your actions. Serve others selflessly, demonstrating compassion and kindness.
Obedience: Follow Christ’s teachings and commandments faithfully, striving to live a life that honors Him.

Build a Supportive Community

Faith Community: Engage with a church or faith group where you can find support, encouragement, and accountability.
Mentorship: Seek guidance from a spiritual mentor who can help you grow in your faith and devotion.

Reflective Practices

Meditation: Spend quiet moments in meditation, focusing on Christ’s presence and love in your life.
Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal, noting the ways Christ has blessed and guided you.

Bible in a Year Day 151 Wisdom and Folly

Fr. Mike delves deeper into the lessons Ecclesiastes teaches us today about living wisely by keeping the end in mind, enjoying the present moment, and not worrying too much about other people's opinions of us. Today's readings are 1 Kings 9, Ecclesiastes 6-7, and Psalm 7.

Daily Devotions

· Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Today's Fast: The Sick Afflicted and Infirmed.

· Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

· Make reparations to the Holy Face

· Drops of Christ’s Blood

· Rosary

[1] J. Brian Bransfield, Living the Beatitudes-A Journey to Life in Christ.

[2]https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/33-days-to-eucharistic-glory/33EG.html?srsltid=AfmBOopIHMivIR422BjtUtJ2KZm8-MrVMEJFtxZYH7ZkFuXRwdu5G1Qi#longDescription

U.S. Grace Force Basic Training Episode 35 – No Kings? Yes! There is a K...

Friday, November 28, 2025

Black Friday

Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days in the United States. It is marked by massive crowds and discounted prices that mean the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Black Friday events in the United States date back to 1932. There are two ideas as to the origin of the name Black Friday, the first one is thought to have originated in Philadelphia, where it was used to describe the burden of traffic that left black track marks on roads. The second claims that Black Friday may also have stemmed from business accounting in the 1930s. During this time, businesses noted losses using red ink and their profits in black ink. Therefore, Black Friday may have been used to imply that businesses became profitable on this day as they go from being in the red to the black. Black Friday is the fourth Friday of November or the day after Thanksgiving Day in the US.

Black Friday Facts & Quotes

• According to IBM, for the first time in history smartphones and tablets outpaced desktop computers for generating consumer traffic to websites during Black Friday in 2015.

• According to consumerreports.org, heavily discounted televisions and other electronic items sold on Black Friday can be derivative models. Derivatives are products that have been manufactured specifically for sale at events like Black Friday. These products vary in specifications, quality and have less features than standard merchandise sold all-year long.

• Mall of America located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the largest mall in the US with 4,870,000 square feet retail space and more than 520 stores. The mall is also home to the largest indoor amusement park in the US.

• With a net worth of more than $136 billion, the six @Wal-Mart heirs own more wealth than the bottom 42% of Americans. #BlackFriday, @Walmart shouldn’t be allowed to pay workers wages so low that many qualify for Medicaid, food stamps, and government housing. #BlackFriday . - Tweets by Senator Bernie Sanders in 2015

Black Friday Top Events and Things to Do

• Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude. Given that Black Friday follows Thanksgiving Day, use this day to spread gratitude and cheer to others. If you have leftover turkey from Thanksgiving Day, then use it to make sandwiches. You and your family can deliver these to the homeless people in your community.

• Hours before Black Friday sales, most retailers send emails and secret offers to their subscribers. Sign up and subscribe to your favorite retailers mailing list before this date. Most stores will also send coupons specifically to use for Black Friday.

• Make sure you have sufficient funds in cash or on credit cards. Given that many will be shopping on Black Friday, ATM machines may run out of funds or bank networks can be down intermittently. Make sure to carry some cash in case this happens.

• In 2015, more than 11 states across the U.S. provided free access to State Parks. Rather than Black Friday shopping, explore the great outdoors with free passes to State Parks. Our top parks picks:

1) Olympic Park, Washington

2) Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California

3) Nickerson State Park, Massachusetts

• Carpool or take an Uber to your favorite shopping destination. There will be limited parking spaces available on Black Friday and some bus routes will be operating on a holiday schedule.

NIC’s Corner

Consider this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Moreover, God is able to make every grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work. (2 Cor. 9:6-8)

· Iceman’s 40 devotion

· Operation Purity

· Black Friday

· How to celebrate Nov 28^th

o Wake up on a chilly morning and start your day by creating a delicious French toast breakfast.

§ Spend some quality time with your furry friend – take your dog out for a long walk or cozy up for some cuddles.

· Look through old photo albums and trace your family health history to gain insight into your roots. Reflect on what you’re thankful for, jotting down a few notes or sharing your thoughts around the dinner table.

o If you’re feeling adventurous, try cooking up a traditional Albanian dish to honor their Independence Day.

§ Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

for a burst of entertainment and grab a warm pumpkin spice latte while you enjoy the show.

· Later, engage in a friendly game of touch football in the backyard or park. Unwind with a good book or movie, letting the day’s festivities settle in.

o As the night winds down, step outside and gaze up at the stars to celebrate Red Planet Day. Learn a little more about our neighboring planet Mars and its mysteries.

🇭🇰 Hong Kong vs 🇪🇹 Ethiopia — Skyscraper Sanctuaries and Highland Saints

Two More Stops on the Rich vs Poor Tour: A Catholic Contrast in Empire’s Wake

This pairing invites pilgrims to reflect on how Catholicism adapts in the shadows of empire: Hong Kong, a hyper-modern financial hub with a complex religious identity, and Ethiopia, an ancient Christian land where Catholicism is a minority amid Orthodox majesty and economic struggle. Together, they extend NIC’s Corner’s journey into the tensions of wealth, worship, and witness.

· 🇭🇰 Hong Kong — Affluent, Anxious, and Politically Catholic

o GDP per capita (PPP): ~$66,200 USD (2024)

o 🧮 Why Hong Kong Ranks High
• Global Finance: A major banking and trade hub.
• Dense Prosperity: High GDP concentrated in a small, urban population.
• Service Economy: Finance, logistics, and tourism dominate.
• Low Taxes: Business-friendly policies attract global capital.
• Infrastructure: World-class transport, healthcare, and education.

o ✝️ Catholic Landscape
• ~5% Catholic: ~400,000 faithful in a city of 7.5 million.
• One Diocese: The Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong,

directly under the Vatican.
• Education Network: Over 250 Catholic schools and institutions.
• Political Witness: Clergy and laity have been active in pro-democracy movements.
• Cardinal Zen: A vocal advocate for religious freedom, arrested in 2022.

o ⚠️ Challenges
• Political Pressure: Beijing’s influence threatens religious autonomy.
• Youth Disengagement: Secularism and stress affect faith formation.
• Cultural Tension: Catholicism must navigate Chinese tradition and colonial memory.

o 🌿 Pilgrimage Cue
Hong Kong is a journey of tension and testimony—where the Eucharist is celebrated in skyscraper sanctuaries, and the Church walks a tightrope between prophetic courage and political constraint.

· 🇪🇹 Ethiopia — Poor, Ancient, and Liturgically Rich

o GDP per capita (PPP): ~$2,900 USD (2024)

o 🧮 Why Ethiopia Ranks Low
• Landlocked Geography: Trade and transport are limited.
• Political Instability: Civil conflict and ethnic tensions persist.
• Drought and Famine: Recurring climate crises affect agriculture.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Rural areas lack roads, electricity, and healthcare.
• Debt and Inflation: Economic growth is uneven and fragile.

o ✝️ Catholic Landscape
• ~1% Catholic: ~700,000 faithful in a nation of 126 million.
• Eastern Rite: The Ethiopian Catholic Church follows the Ge’ez Rite,

in full communion with Rome.
• Ancient Roots: Christianity arrived in the 4th century; Catholicism emerged in the 17th.
• Interfaith Dialogue: Catholics coexist with Orthodox Christians and Muslims.
• Missionary Outreach: Catholic schools, clinics, and peacebuilding efforts are vital in rural areas.

o ⚠️ Challenges
• Religious Minority: Catholics are often misunderstood or marginalized.
• Conflict Zones: War in Tigray and other regions disrupts Church life.
• Resource Scarcity: Many parishes lack books, electricity, or trained catechists.
• Cultural Complexity: Catholicism must honor ancient traditions while remaining distinct.

o 🌿 Pilgrimage Cue
Ethiopia is a journey of liturgical depth and hidden fidelity—where incense rises from stone chapels, and the Eucharist is offered in Ge’ez chant and desert silence.

· 🕊️ Editorial Reflection

o Hong Kong and Ethiopia reveal two faces of Catholic endurance: one urban, anxious, and politically charged; the other rural, ancient, and quietly faithful. In Hong Kong, the Church is a voice in the crowd. In Ethiopia, it is a whisper in the highlands. Both ache. Both shine.

o What does it mean to be Catholic in the empire’s shadow—whether colonial, communist, or Orthodox?

Where does the Gospel find deeper roots—in skyscraper tension or highland tradition?

NOVEMBER 28 Friday in the Octave of Christ the King

French Toast Day-Blue Christmas

Romans, Chapter 14, Verse 15

If your brother is being hurt by what you eat, your conduct is no longer in accord with LOVE. Do not because of your food destroy him for whom Christ died.

Adjust your habits and traditions remembering that the mind like the body can be demanding of its own way and must be brought under the control of the Holy Spirit. Contemplate you do not have to believe or act on all the things the mind tells you of the things/pleasures and entertainments it wants.

Copilot’s Take

Blue Christmas on November 28 becomes a moment of gratitude for those who serve while others celebrate, especially police and first responders whose duty keeps communities safe even as families gather around tables and traditions. Romans 14:15 reminds us that love must govern our choices, and honoring those who sacrifice their comfort for ours is part of that love. Just as French Toast Day symbolizes warmth and indulgence, Blue Christmas calls us to temper joy with remembrance, offering prayers, hospitality, and small acts of kindness for those who patrol the streets, guard the peace, and carry burdens unseen. In this way, the feast and the vigil meet: our celebrations are deepened by awareness, and our gratitude becomes a form of Eucharistic hospitality.

Friday in the Octave of Christ the King

· Meditate on the virtues of Mary (Humility, Generosity, Chastity, Patience, Temperance, Understanding/love and Wisdom. One for each day.

· attend Mass daily or via EWTN or the internet

· Fast doing the Daniel fast (Monday-Saturday).

· Exercise-Universal Man Plan.

God’s Handiwork[1]

Every Christmas although the same in many ways is always new for each Christmas expresses a hope learned from a lifetime of praising God. For every Christmas if we open our eyes to truth we will see the handiwork of God; the rock of our salvation. Perhaps in these final days of anticipation it would do us well to reflect on the virtues of Mary Christ’s very own mother and in these final days in some way reflect them in our own lives.

Temperance the power of the soul

The virtue of temperance is necessary to the Christian who would live according to the law of God. When this virtue is wanting, the spirit becomes the slave of the flesh. It can no longer relish things divine; for, says St. Paul, "the sensual man perceiveth not the things that are of the Spirit of God." (1 Cor. ii, 14.) In fact, gluttony and gross living naturally tend to the obscuring of the intellect and to the quenching of spiritual light. It is vain, therefore, to look for wisdom among those that live in luxury and abundance: "Wisdom is not found in the land of them that live in delight." (Job, xxviii, 18.) Moreover intemperance, by exciting a wild gaiety, often provokes bickering and dissensions, and it is a known fact that gluttony takes a greater toll of human lives than does disease. But what is still worse, intemperance excites in man all kinds of impure thoughts, which find vent in words, gestures and actions contrary to holy modesty; it hardens the heart and prepares the way to eternal perdition.

THE Church teaches us that the Christian must all submit in expiation of our sins. Our divine Redeemer Himself impressed upon us this great truth when He said: "Unless you shall do penance, you shall all likewise perish." (Luke xiii. 3.)

The object of penance is, in the first place, to lead us to refrain ourselves, in so far as reason and faith demand, from the inordinate desire of sensual pleasure to which our fallen nature is inclined. So strong is this inclination that we are ever in danger of falling into the slough of vice. How many Christians, alas, by following their unbridled imagination, lose both soul and body together!

Wherefore, Holy Church imposes upon us the obligation of fasting, putting us in mind of the advantages which accrue from this salutary penance to which we practice. Fasting, in effect, "represses vices, raises our thoughts heavenward, makes easy the practice of virtue, and is a constant source of merit." (Preface for Lent.)

As Mary was not tainted with original sin, she did not experience in herself this disorderly proneness to the pleasures of sense, the baneful consequence of the sin of our first parents. Being full of grace, she maintained always the just balance of the powers of her soul. She performed all her actions with ease and delight, not having to use violence with herself, in order to preserve that even poise of the faculties, which reason arid the law of God demand. Nevertheless, Mary subjected herself willingly to the law of penance and mortification, denying herself those. Her life was one long series of privations and self-denials. Her fasting and abstinence was continual. She only allowed herself what was necessary to maintain life. She mortified all her senses, so that it was hard to say in what particular kind of mortification she excelled, in modesty of the eyes, in lowliness of demeanor, in the sparingness of her words or in the dignity of her gestures. It was natural, then, that her Heavenly Bridegroom should find in her all His delight. And as the fruit of this temperance, Mary acquired an extraordinary facility in conversing familiarly with her Well-Beloved, a heavenly joy which was depicted on her countenance, a virginal beauty which radiated from her whole presence, a something so indescribably sweet and majestic, that it gave to her an aspect rather divine than human: "How beautiful art thou my love, how beautiful art thou! Thine eyes are as doves' eyes, besides what is hid within!" (Cant. iv, 1.)

33 days to Christmas-Start the 33 days to Eucharistic Glory[2]

Want to start a small group? Download our 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory Study Guide

📖 Day 7 – Hope in Christ’s Intercession

On this seventh day, seek with all your soul to hope in Christ’s intercession on behalf of your weakness in the flesh. Placing your hope in Christ’s intercession is a powerful act of faith, acknowledging His role as our advocate and mediator before the Father. This hope is not wishful thinking—it is rooted in the certainty that Christ continually pleads for us, even in our frailty.

🌟 Deepen Your Understanding

Scripture: Let Hebrews 7:25 and Romans 8:34 remind you that Christ lives to intercede for you.

Wisdom of the Saints: Read reflections that highlight the strength found in Christ’s advocacy, allowing their words to deepen your trust.

🙏 Prayer and Reflection

Daily Prayer: Ask Christ to intercede for your weaknesses, naming them honestly before Him.

Meditation: Rest in His mercy, letting His love quiet the demands of the flesh and strengthen your spirit.

✝️ Participate in the Sacraments

Eucharist: Receive the Eucharist as the living sign of His intercession, uniting you to His sacrifice.

Confession: Approach reconciliation with confidence, trusting that Christ’s intercession secures your forgiveness.

🤝 Community and Support

Fellowship: Share your journey with others, encouraging one another to lean on Christ’s strength.

Mentorship: Seek guidance from a spiritual mentor who can help you recognize Christ’s intercession at work in your life.

Bible in a Year Day 150 The Dedication of the Temple

Fr. Mike explains the details of Solomon's dedication of the Temple, and the power of God's presence dwelling in it. In Ecclesiastes, we continue to learn more nuggets of wisdom about friendship, prudence, and money. Today we read 1 Kings 8, Ecclesiastes 3-5, and Psalm 6.

French Toast Day[3]

There’s a blend that just makes our morning fantastic, and it’s a blending of eggs, milk, and cinnamon with bread dipped in. There’s something about the savory sweet smell of it, and the anticipation of having it painted with butter and drizzled with syrup, with a side of breakfast sausage and a tall glass of orange juice that’ll get us out of bed on even the worst of days. French Toast Day is honoring this amazing breakfast delight and encourages you to enjoy it for breakfast with a few friends. The breakfast favorite French toast goes by many names depending on where it’s being served up – eggy bread, German toast, poor knights’ pudding, Bombay toast – but it’s always made of the same key ingredients. Egg, milk – or cream – and bread. This delicious, sweet snack is often served with sugar or syrup and fruit and consists of bread slices fried in a mixture of milk and egg. In France, its name is ‘pain perdu’, which literally means ‘lost bread’, because it would often be made with stale or old bread. Although we tend to call it French Bread, the dish isn’t known to have come from France. Some ancient Latin recipes from the 4th century mention soaking bread in milk before frying, and in fourteenth Century Germany the term ‘poor knights’ pudding’ was coined for the sweet treat because it was seen as an affordable meal for those without too much money to spend. Today, it’s eaten across the world as a breakfast meal or a sweet snack. In Italy, there’s a savory version, called ‘mozzarella en carrozza’, which sees the egg-soaked bread sandwiching slices of mozzarella cheese before it is fried. Its name literally means ‘mozzarella in a carriage’. So you can have eggy bread for your main meal, and your pudding!

How to Celebrate French Toast Day

So how can you celebrate French Toast Day? If you’ve got any stale bread in the kitchen, this is a great way to use it up. The recipe tends to call for bread that’s at least a day old because older slices will be able to soak up the tasty egg and milk mixture without falling apart. Then, once you’ve fried it up, you can slather on as much jam, syrup, fruit or honey as you like. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, why not pop a swirl of cream on top?

Blue Christmas[4]

Christmas normally is a time for joy. Decorations are set up, parties ensue, presents are given, and laughter commences. Not many people realize that those in law enforcement work tirelessly during the holiday season to keep people safe. Blue Christmas is a holiday dedicated to those who work in that field, giving them an opportunity to be thanked for their services and celebrate Christmas their own way. While Elvis made the term “A Blue Christmas” popular to describe Christmas blues, this holiday is for those who work in law enforcement, such as police, firefighters, EMTs, and 911 dispatchers. For them, it is rough. Long nights in the wet, cold snow or long nights in the office can be particularly dangerous, especially for those who have the potential factor of being shot at, having emotional trauma from an emergency situation, and so forth. Because of their job, they keep people safe and save lives, but it comes at a cost. They miss out on spending time with their families and lose out on enjoying what Christmas is all about. That’s why when it comes to the holiday season, Blue Christmas gives people a chance to give to others by giving gifts and thanking them for their services. While some may be cheerful doing their job, because they know that Christmas is about helping others, Blue Christmas helps raise awareness for the behind-the-scenes action that the people working in law enforcement and the medical field are the ones truly making the holiday seasons special. With the potential dangers involved, they deserved their thanks and gifts the most.

How to celebrate Blue Christmas

To take part in a Blue Christmas, you can easily do so by displaying a blue light throughout the winter holidays. It can be a single porch light, blue candles in the window, or blue Christmas lights as part of the display. If you know someone who works in law enforcement or the medical industry, buy or make them a gift and take the time out to thank them for what they do to keep society and the holidays going. Share this holiday on social media using the hashtag #bluechristmas and let everyone know how important it is to see those who don’t ask for much in return.

Fitness Friday

In the movie “Christmas.” we witnessed the day “Ralphie” pronounced the big F word and as a result his mother in loving correction immediately inserted a bar of soap in “Ralphie’s” nasty mouth. Today let us look at our own nasty mouths. Caring for our teeth may improve your fitness more than we realize.

Clean Mouth-Ralphie![5]

Taking care of your teeth is important for all ages, but it’s especially important for older adults who may be at greater risk of oral health problems. Adults 65 and older are at an increased risk for oral cancer, gum disease and cavities. Luckily, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your teeth. With proper care, you can maintain — or even improve — your oral health as you age. Here are six things that help improve senior oral hygiene.

· Cut Out Bad Habits-There are dozens of reasons to quit smoking or chewing tobacco, and the health of your entire mouth is no exception. If you’re currently using tobacco products, talk to your doctor about healthy methods for quitting. And as you likely remember from childhood, sugary foods like candy and soda can increase your risk for cavities. Committing to healthy eating isn’t just good for your heart and waistline — it’s great for your teeth, too.

· Increase Your Fluoride Intake-Many municipalities have fluoride added to their drinking water, but you can also incorporate a fluoride toothpaste or fluoride rinse into your daily care routine, too. If necessary, you can even talk to your dentist about regular fluoride treatments.

· Be Diligent About Your Teeth Cleaning Routine-It isn’t enough to simply brush your teeth twice a day, every day. Additionally, you should floss at least once per day and consider rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. Make sure to replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months.

· If You Have Dentures, Clean Them Daily-Denture-wearers may have a different routine, but good oral hygiene is still a priority. Follow your dentist’s instructions for keeping your dentures clean so the rest of your mouth also stays clean and healthy.

· Keep Your Mouth Hydrated-If you’re prescribed a medication that causes dry mouth, make sure you’re taking extra steps to keep your mouth hydrated. Drink lots of water and switch to sugar-free gum, if you’re a gum chewer. (Bonus: Sugar-free gum is better for your teeth, too!)

· Go to the Dentist-regular checkups with your primary care physician, going to the dentist is the single best thing you can do for your oral health. Not only can your dentist give your teeth a good cleaning, but they’ll also be able to identify oral health problems before they progress and give you tips for taking care of your teeth. While the minimum recommendation is once per year, many older adults prefer to see their dentist every six months just to make sure everything is going well.

Daily Devotions

· Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Today's Fast: Binding and suppressing the Devils Evil works.

· Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

· Drops of Christ’s Blood

· Go to MASS

· Rosary

[1] Goffine’s Devout Instructions, 1896.

[2]https://www.dynamiccatholic.com/33-days-to-eucharistic-glory/33EG.html?srsltid=AfmBOopIHMivIR422BjtUtJ2KZm8-MrVMEJFtxZYH7ZkFuXRwdu5G1Qi#longDescription

[3]https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/french-toast-day/

[4]https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/a-blue-christmas/

[5]http://sunhealthseniorliving.org/6-tips-better-senior-oral-hygiene/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5tjr5bmT1gIVSJ7ACh28nQ8aEAMYAiAAEgIiDfD_BwE