ICEMANforChrist

This blog is based on references in the Bible to fear. God wills that we “BE NOT AFRAID”. Many theologians state that the eighth deadly sin is fear. It is fear and its natural animal reaction to fight or flight that is the root cause of our failings to create a Kingdom of God on earth. By “the power of the Holy Spirit” we can be witnesses and “communicators” of a new and redeemed humanity “even to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:7 8). This blog is dedicated to Mary the Mother of God.

Friday, August 22, 2025

NIC’s (Not In Church)

My soul rests in God alone, from whom comes my salvation.

God alone is my rock and salvation, my fortress; I shall never fall.

Palm 62:2-3

· Eat Fish on Fridays

§ Foodie Cheat: 15 Most Popular Foods in Brunei

· Spirit Hour: Bloody Mary

o Garlic Heart Juice

· Iceman’s 40 devotion

· Get an indulgence

· Operation Purity

· 30 DAY TRIBUTE TO MARY 8^th ROSE: Mary's Visitation Gives Charity

o 30 Days of Women and Herbs – Frauendreissiger-Ivy (Hedera helix)

o MEDICINAL PLANTS Day 8 ANTIBIOTIC PROPIERTIES-Revealed by Heaven to Luz De María

§ RAW GARLIC Scientific name: Allium sativum Family: Liliaceae

§ After the message from the blessed Mother on June 3, 2016, Luz de María had a vision in which she was given the following indications as natural remedies for the illnesses that are approaching. Our Mother told me that true plagues will come and that we should ingest a raw clove of garlic every morning, or oil of oregano; these two are excellent antibiotics. If oil of oregano is not available, oregano can be boiled to make an infusion; however, the Oil of Oregano is a better antibiotic. Blessed Virgin Mary, 06.03.2016

Bucket List trip: Rich vs Poor Tour: 10-Brunei vs. 203-Niger

🇧🇳 Why Brunei Ranks High in Per Capita Income

Brunei consistently ranks among the top countries globally in terms of GDP per capita, thanks to its small population and vast oil and gas reserves. In 2023, its GDP per capita was approximately $82,963, placing it in the top tier worldwide. While it may not be exactly ranked 10th, it often appears in the top 30 depending on the metrics used (e.g., purchasing power parity, nominal GDP, etc.).

Key contributors to this wealth include:

🛢️ Oil and gas exports: The backbone of Brunei’s economy.
👥 Low population: Around 450,000 people, which amplifies per capita figures.
💰 No income tax: Citizens and many expats enjoy tax-free salaries.
🏥 Subsidized healthcare and education: Funded by state revenues.

🙏 Quality of Life for a Catholic Expat in Brunei

Brunei is a Muslim-majority country governed by a conservative Islamic monarchy, and while it’s peaceful and safe, religious expression outside Islam is regulated. Here's what a Catholic expat might expect:

🕊️ Religious Freedom & Practice

Catholicism is permitted, but public proselytizing or visible religious symbols outside churches is restricted.
There are a few Catholic churches, such as the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Mass is held regularly, but religious activities are confined to designated spaces.

🏡 Lifestyle & Comfort

High standard of living: Clean air, low crime, and good infrastructure.
Affordable healthcare: Public hospitals are modern and subsidized; private care is also available.
Housing: Comfortable and reasonably priced, often subsidized or provided by employers.
English is widely spoken, making daily life manageable without fluency in Malay.

🌿 Social & Cultural Integration

Social life is quiet: Alcohol is banned, nightlife is limited, and cultural events are modest.
Nature and serenity: Expats enjoy lush rainforests, beaches, and national parks.
Respectful coexistence: While Islamic customs dominate, expats are generally treated with warmth and hospitality.

⚖️ Challenges

Sharia law applies, but non-Muslims are largely exempt from its stricter provisions.
Limited religious visibility: Wearing crosses or holding public religious events may be discouraged.
Cultural sensitivity is essential: Discretion and respect for local norms are key to a peaceful experience.

🇳🇪 Why Niger Ranks 203rd in Per Capita Income

Niger’s ranking near the bottom of global per capita income lists—203rd according to the CIA World Factbook—is a reflection of its extreme poverty, limited industrial development, and challenging geography. In 2024, its GNI per capita (PPP) was approximately $1,990, and its nominal GNI per capita was even lower, around $620.

📉 Key Factors Behind the Low Ranking

Landlocked and arid: Over 80% of Niger is desert, limiting agriculture and infrastructure.
Subsistence economy: Most people rely on farming and livestock, with minimal industrial output.
Rapid population growth: One of the highest fertility rates globally strains resources.
Political instability and security issues: Ongoing threats from extremist groups and regional conflicts hinder development.
Limited education and healthcare: Low literacy rates and poor access to medical care reduce productivity and quality of life.

✝️ Quality of Life for a Catholic Expat in Niger

Living in Niger as a Catholic expat is possible, but it comes with significant challenges. The country is predominantly Muslim (over 98%), and while religious freedom is constitutionally protected, the reality is shaped by poverty, limited infrastructure, and security concerns.

🕊️ Religious Life

Catholic presence: There are small Catholic communities, especially in Niamey, with churches and missions.
Freedom of worship: Practicing Catholicism privately or within designated churches is generally tolerated.
Interfaith relations: Peaceful coexistence is common, though public religious expression should be discreet.

🏥 Health & Safety

Healthcare is limited: Even in Niamey, hospitals lack equipment and trained staff.
Medical evacuation insurance is essential: Many expats rely on care in neighboring countries for serious issues.
Sanitation and disease risks: Cholera, malaria, and waterborne illnesses are prevalent.

🏡 Daily Life

Niamey is the best option: It offers international schools, expat communities, and basic amenities.
Electricity and water: Often unreliable, especially outside major cities.
Transportation: Roads are poorly maintained; travel at night is discouraged due to safety concerns.

🤝 Expat Community

NGOs and diplomatic missions: Most expats work in aid, development, or diplomacy.
Support networks: Social events and cultural exchanges help build community among foreigners.

⚖️ Summary: A Catholic Expat’s Experience in Niger

Aspect	Experience in Niger
Religious Practice	Possible but discreet; small Catholic community
Safety	Moderate to high risk; avoid travel at night
Healthcare	Severely limited; evacuation insurance needed
Community	Strong expat networks in Niamey
Comfort	Basic amenities; frequent power/water outages
Spiritual Life	Quiet, resilient, and deeply intentional

🏁 Brunei vs. Niger: Which Is Better?

If you're weighing Brunei against Niger in terms of quality of life, economic opportunity, and Catholic expat experience, the contrast is stark. Brunei offers a high-income, peaceful, and well-developed environment, while Niger faces significant developmental challenges.

💰 Economic Comparison

Metric	Brunei	Niger
GDP per capita (2022)	$38,795	$608
GNI per capita (PPP)	~$82,000	~$1,000
Life expectancy	~75.6 years	~61.6 years
Literacy rate	~97.6%	~37.3%
Electricity access	100%	~19%
Internet access	~98%	~22%
Infant mortality	10.5 per 1,000 births	66.8 per 1,000 births

✝️ Catholic Expat Experience

Aspect	Brunei	Niger
Religious freedom	Limited public expression; churches allowed	Tolerated; small Catholic missions exist
Safety	Very safe, low crime	Moderate to high risk; terrorism concerns
Healthcare	Modern and subsidized	Severely limited; evacuation often needed
Community	Small but active Catholic presence	Missionary and NGO-based communities
Comfort	High standard of living	Basic amenities; frequent outages
Spiritual life	Quiet, structured, respectful	Resilient, humble, and mission-driven

🏆 Verdict

Brunei is objectively “better” in terms of infrastructure, income, safety, and comfort. It’s ideal for a Catholic expat seeking peace, structure, and a quiet life of reflection. Niger, on the other hand, offers a more raw and challenging experience—one that may appeal to missionaries or those called to serve in hardship.

If you're discerning between the two for spiritual or lifestyle reasons, it comes down to this:

Brunei: A sanctuary of order and serenity.
Niger: A crucible of service and sacrifice.

· How to celebrate Aug 22nd

o Rise and shine! You could start your themed day by whipping up a delicious batch of burgers for breakfast. Get creative with your toppings and enjoy a hearty start to your day.

o After breakfast, why not head out to a local bakery or try your hand at baking your own National Pecan Torte? Indulge in the sweet, nutty flavors and treat yourself to a slice of this decadent dessert.

o For lunch, celebrate National Bao Day by visiting a nearby Asian restaurant or making your own steamed buns at home. Fill them with your favorite savory fillings and savor every bite.

o In the afternoon, take a stroll through a botanical garden or park to enjoy the beauty of nature on Daffodil Day. Take in the sights and sounds of the outdoors, and don’t forget to snap a few photos of the vibrant daffodils in bloom.

o As the day winds down, relax with a refreshing peach smoothie in honor of National Eat a Peach Day. Blend up some fresh peaches with yogurt and honey for a tasty treat to enjoy while unwinding.

AUGUST 22 Thursday-Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Acts, Chapter 5, Verse 11

And great FEAR came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.

The sin of Ananias and Sapphira did not consist in the withholding of part of the money but in their deception of the community. Their deaths are ascribed to a lie to the holy Spirit (Acts 5:3, 9, they accepted the honor accorded them by the community for their generosity, but in reality they were not deserving of it.

Is not this a form of Virtue signaling or fraud?

As today is the Queenship of Mary she stands in sharp contrast to these types of fraud.

Copilot’s View

This reflection is beautifully woven-linking the sobering account of Ananias and Sapphira with the radiant Queenship Mary creates a powerful contrast between deception and divine transparency, between self-serving virtue signaling and authentic surrender.

🌿 Fear and Fraud: Acts 5:11 in Light of Mary's Queenship

The fear that gripped the early Church in Acts 5:11 wasn’t just terror—it was awe, a recognition of the seriousness of truth before God. Ananias and Sapphira’s sin was not stinginess, but spiritual fraud: they wanted the glory of generosity without the sacrifice. In today’s terms, yes—it’s a form of virtue signaling. They curated an image of holiness while withholding the truth, and in doing so, they lied not just to the community, but to the Holy Spirit Himself.

Contrast this with Mary:

· She held nothing back.

· Her fiat—"Be it done unto me according to thy word"—was total.

· She didn’t seek honor, yet was crowned Queen of Heaven.

· Her reign is one of humility, purity, and maternal intercession.

👑 The Queenship of Mary: A Call to Authentic Consecration

Pope Pius XII’s institution of this feast was more than liturgical—it was a spiritual summons. To enthrone Mary in our homes is to dethrone pride, deception, and self-will. It’s to say:

“I want my life to reflect the truth, not a curated image.”

Here’s a simplified guide to enthroning Mary in your home:

🕊️ Steps to Enthronement and Consecration

1. Prepare a sacred space:

2. Place a blessed statue or image of Mary.

3. Adorn with flowers and candles.

4. Choose a visible, prayerful spot.

5. Gather your family:

6. If possible, invite a priest.

7. Otherwise, the head of the household may lead.

8. Prayers to recite together:

9. Act of Contrition

10. 3 Hail Mary’s

11. 3 Glorias

12. Invocation (3x): “Mary Immaculate Queen: Triumph and Reign.”

13. Act of Consecration (excerpt):

14. Mary Immaculate Queen, glorious Queen of the Universe, most powerful Virgin, merciful Mother of a merciful God and refuge of sinners, we consecrate ourselves to thy Royal and Immaculate Heart...

🌌 Living Under Her Reign

To enthrone Mary is to invite her virtues into our daily life:

· Truth over image

· Sacrifice over self-promotion

· Mercy over judgment

· Silence over spectacle

It’s a quiet revolution of the heart—her Queenship can be a moment of recommitment: to truth, to beauty, and to the reign of grace in your home.

Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary[1]

On the 11th of October 1954, Pope Pius XII established the Feast of the Queenship of Mary to be celebrated throughout the world, and commanded that on that day each year, the world should renew its consecration to her. In the future the Feast came to be celebrated on 22nd of August. On the day of her Assumption, Mary our Mother was solemnly crowned by Christ and received by the whole court of Heaven as Queen. What Christ has done in Heaven and the Church has done on our behalf we should now do individually, that is, we should recognize Mary's Queenship, enthrone her in our homes, consecrate ourselves to her and, by this means, establish in our lives the reign of Mary Immaculate Queen of the Universe.

How to Enthrone Mary Immaculate Queen in Your Home and Consecrate Your Family to Her a statue or picture may be blessed; If convenient, ask a priest to perform the ceremony, otherwise the head of the family can do it. Prepare her altar with flowers and candles, giving her an honored place in your home where all will see her and often pray to her. Recite together kneeling:

Act of Contrition; 3 Hail Mary’s; 3 Gloria’s; 3 times the invocation: Mary Immaculate Queen: Triumph and Reign. followed by the

Act of Consecration

O Mary Immaculate Queen, glorious Queen of the Universe, most powerful Virgin, merciful Mother of a merciful God and refuge of sinners, we consecrate ourselves to thy Royal and Immaculate Heart.

It is through thee that Jesus Christ our King has come into the world to save it. It is also through thee that He is to reign over the world.

In order to obtain this great benefit for ourselves and all mankind, we come to thy feet to consecrate to thee our persons, our lives, all that we are, all that we have, all that we love. Keep us, enlighten us, dispose of us, reign over us.

May all hearts and all homes willingly proclaim thee as their Immaculate Queen.

Prayer

O Mary Immaculate Queen, look down upon this distressed and suffering world. Thou knowest our misery and our weakness. O Thou who art our Mother, saving us in the hour of peril, have compassion on us in these days of great and heavy trial.

Jesus has confided to thee the treasure of His Grace, and through Thee He wills to grant us pardon and mercy. In these hours of anguish, therefore, thy children come to Thee as their hope.

We recognize thy Queenship and ardently desire thy triumph. We need a Mother and a Mother's Heart. Thou art for us the luminous dawn which dissipates our darkness and points out the way to life. In thy clemency obtain for us the courage and the confidence of which we have such need.

Most Holy and Adorable Trinity, Thou Who didst crown with glory in Heaven the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Savior, grant that all her children on earth may acknowledge her as their Sovereign Queen, that all hearts, homes, and nations may recognize her rights as Mother and as Queen. Amen.

MARY IMMACULATE QUEEN
Triumph and Reign!

Imprimi potest:
+ Michael Epus Galviensis, 4 June 1966

Bible in a Year Day 64 Consequences for Sin

Fr. Mike explains why God would give the Israelites such drastic consequences for their sin, and how it reveals his divine plan and infinite mercy. Today's readings are Numbers 15, Deuteronomy 13-14, and Psalm 96.

Fitness Friday

12 Best Types of Fish to Eat[2]

Fish is a healthy, high-protein food, especially important for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that our bodies don’t produce on their own. Omega-3 fatty acids play an essential role in brain and heart health. Omega-3s have been shown to decrease inflammation and reduce the risk of heart disease. They’re important for prenatal development in babies, too. The American Heart Association (AHA)Trusted Source recommends eating fish at least 2 times a week, particularly fatty fish like salmon, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna, which are high in omega-3s. Yet, there are some risks associated with eating fish on a regular basis. Contaminants such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) find their way into ground, lake, and ocean water from our household and industrial waste, and then into the fish who live there.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and FDA have issued combined guidelines for women of childbearing age, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and children. They advise these groups avoid fish with higher levels of mercury contamination, which usually include:

· shark

· swordfish

· king mackerel

· tilefish

The following 12 superstar fish have made it onto our “best fish” list not only for having great nutrition and safety profiles but because they’re eco-friendly — being responsibly caught or farmed, and not overfished.

1. Alaskan salmon

2. Cod

3. Herring

4. Mahi-mahi

5. Mackerel

6. Perch

7. Rainbow trout

8. Sardines

9. Striped bass

10. Tuna

11. Alaskan pollock

12. Char