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Tuesday, July 22, 2025

  Candace’s Corner ·           10 coolest summer getaways in Arizona: Mountains, lakes and a chilly cave trek ·           St. Anthony  Noven...

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Tuesday, July 29, 2025

 


Candace’s Corner

·         10 coolest summer getaways in Arizona: Mountains, lakes and a chilly cave trek

·         St. Anthony Novena 7-on thirteen consecutive Tuesdays.

·         Martha is the patron of cooks; tonight make Ratatouille and watch the movie with those you love.

·         Today is Arnold Schwarzenegger’s birthday born 1947

·         Pray Day 9 of the Novena for our Pope and Bishops

·         Let Freedom Ring Day 23 Freedom from Idolatry

·         Religion in the Home for Preschool: July

·         Bucket List: Vineyard World Tour:

o    Port Angeles Vineyard

·         Foodie: National Eggplant Month

o    National Chicken Wing Day

·         Explore the benefits of turmeric

·         Spirit Hour: Martha’s Bra



JULY 29 Tuesday-Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus

 

Luke, Chapter 2, verse 8-10:

8 Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. 9The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great FEAR. 10The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 

Let us daily ask of our Lord to remove our hearts of stone and give us a heart of love thus making our burdens lighter and bring cheer to the hearts of all we encounter. May we through love be brought to Holy fear! 

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Here there is profound paradox: that holy fear, far from being terror, is actually born of love. The shepherds’ fear was not of punishment, but awe in the face of divine glory—and the angel’s voice didn’t extinguish the fear, it transfigured it into joy.

 

Here are some layered lessons that emerge from Luke 2:8–10

🌌 1. God Meets Us in the Ordinary

·         The shepherds were not temple priests or kings—they were humble night-watchers.

o   It’s a reminder that divine encounters often come to those who live simply and watch faithfully, even in the silence and darkness.

😨 2. Fear Is the Gateway to Awe

·         Their great fear wasn't a flaw—it was the natural human response to divine presence.

o   Holy fear teaches us to recognize our smallness in the face of God’s majesty, but also His nearness in our weakness.

🎁 3. Joy Transfigures Fear

·         The angel didn’t dismiss their fear; he transformed it with the Good News.

o   It suggests that fear is not removed by denial, but by divine love. Joy doesn’t erase fear—it elevates it to reverence.

❤️ 4. Love Softens and Strengthens

·         to ask for hearts of love that speaks to spiritual metamorphosis.

o   A heart of flesh not only empathizes but endures. It carries burdens lightly and brings joy to others—something only love can do.

🔥 5. Holy Fear Leads to Holy Mission

·         The shepherds didn’t freeze in fear—they went, told, rejoiced.

o   Holy fear isn’t paralyzing—it sends us forth, transformed and proclaiming.


 

Feast of St. Martha[1]

According to legend, St Martha left Judea after Jesus' death, around AD 48, and went to Provence with her sister Mary (Mary Magdalene) and her brother Lazarus. With them, Martha first settled in Avignon (now in France). The Golden Legend, compiled in the 13th century, records the Provençal tradition:

Saint Martha, hostess of our Lord Jesus Christ, was born of royal kindred. Her father was named Syro and her mother Encharia. The father of her was duke of Syria and places maritime, and Martha with her sister possessed by the heritage of their mother three places, that was, the castle Magdalen, and Bethany and a part of Jerusalem. It is nowhere read that Martha had ever any husband or fellowship of man, but she as a noble hostess ministered and served our Lord, and would also that her sister should serve him and help her, for she thought that all the world was not sufficient to serve such a guest.

After the ascension of our Lord, when the disciples were departed, she with her brother Lazarus and her sister Mary, also Saint Maximum which baptized them, and to whom they were committed of the Holy Ghost, and many others, were put into a ship without sail, oars, or rudder, which by the conduct of our Lord they came all to Marseilles, and after came to the territory of Aix in Provence, and there converted the people to the faith. Martha was courteous and gracious to the sight of the people.

The Golden Legend also records the grand lifestyle imagined for Martha and her siblings in its entry on Mary Magdalene:

Mary Magdalene had her surname of Magdalo, a castle, and was born of right noble lineage and parents, which were descended of the lineage of kings. And her father was named Cyrus, and her mother Eucharis. She with her brother Lazarus, and her sister Martha, possessed the castle of Magdalo, which is two miles from Nazareth, and Bethany, the castle, which is nigh to Jerusalem, and also a great part of Jerusalem, which, all these things they departed among them. In such wise that Mary had the castle Magdalo, whereof she had her name Magdalene. And Lazarus had the part of the city of Jerusalem, and Martha had to her part Bethany. And when Mary gave herself to all delights of the body, and Lazarus extended all to knighthood, Martha, who was wise, governed nobly her brother's part and also her sister's, and also her own, and administered to knights, and her servants, and to poor men, such necessities as they needed. Nevertheless, after the ascension of our Lord, they sold all these things.

Love is a verb, a doing, sharing, acting, and living part of more than just speech.[2]

 

Today make some Lasagna to share with those you love.

National Lasagna Day[3]

National Lasagna Day is dedicated to appreciating lasagna.  The true origins of when and how National Lasagna Day came to be are unclear.  However, Google reports of National Lasagna Day began to appear in the 21st century.   Lasagna is a flat-shaped pasta that is layered with sauce and various ingredients, the most popular including beef, spinach, cheese or seafood.  Lasagna is believed to have originated in Naples, Italy.  The first lasagna recipe appears in The Liber de Coquina (The book of cooking/cookery), which is one of the oldest medieval cookbooks. Some have suggested that lasagna comes from the Greek word laganon, which stands for a flat sheet of pasta dough.  Others however suggest that lasagna comes from a 14th-century British recipe called Loseyn, which included layering ingredients between pasta sheets. National Lasagna Day is observed on July 29th of every year.

National Lasagna Day Facts & Quotes

·         As per the USDA, 100g of lasagna contains 135 calories, 4.9g of fat and 15g of carbohydrate.

·         Lasagna is the favorite food of Garfield, a comic strip cat.

·         Lasagna… nature's perfect food! – Garfield 

National Lasagna Day Top Events and Things to Do 

·         Enjoy lasagna specials on National Lasagna Day at your favorite eatery.  Many restaurants offer free lasagna, discounts and Lasagna special to celebrate the day.

·         Try a healthier alternative to the traditional lasagna.  Lasagna can be vegan, gluten-free, and made without dairy products.  Here are some vegan lasagna options:
1) Vegan lasagna with tofu ricotta and butternut squash
2) Mexican lasagna with layers of refried beans, avocado, guacamole and fresh veggies
3) Zucchini and tomato lasagna with a cashew and herb cheese
4) Mushroom, pesto, spinach and tofu cheese lasagna
5) Eggplant, summer squash, zucchini, mushroom, tomato and basil lasagna with tofu ricotta

·         Cook lasagna in the slow cooker, rather than a conventional oven.  As with baked lasagna, layer noodles, cheese and toppings in the slow cooker and let it cook slowly.  Slow cooker meals are great for a busy family that still likes to eat a nutritious meal at the end of a long day.

·         Cook your lasagna in a dishwasher.  According to MythBusters, the popular television show on the Discovery network, this is definitely feasible.

·         Attend a cooking vacation in Italy where you week-long cooking class at Taste of Italy cooking school in Tuscany, Italy where they teach students how to make lasagna the traditional, Italian way.

Novena in Honor of Saint John Marie Vianney[4]

True Love of Neighbor

Saint John Marie Baptist Vianney because of your love of God you showed great charity towards your neighbor. You could not preach on the Love of God without burning tears of love. During your last years, it seemed as though you could not talk about anything else or live for anything else. Thus, you sacrificed yourself to your neighbor by consoling, absolving and sanctifying them to the limits of your strength. Your charity inspires me to greater love of God, a love which is shown more by acts then by words. Help me to love my neighbor generously as Christ loves them. Holy Priest of Ars, I have confidence in your intercession. Pray for me during this novena especially for ... (mention silently your special intentions).

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be.

Bible in a Year-Day 40

Today, Fr. Mike explains how God's heart is revealed through his commandments, and how we are all called to a life of justice, as we read from Exodus 22, Leviticus 15, and Psalm 76.

Daily Devotions

·         Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: The Sick, afflicted, and infirmed

·         Litany of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus

·         Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood

·         Universal Man Plan

·         Rosary



[2] Simple Wisdom Calendar, Publications International, Ltd.

[4]http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1129


Monday, July 28, 2025

 Monday Night at the Movies

Strange Cargo

🎬 Strange Cargo (1940), directed by Frank Borzage, is a hauntingly allegorical film that blends prison escape drama with spiritual parable. From a Catholic perspective, it offers a rich meditation on grace, redemption, and the mystery of Christ’s presence among sinners.

🕊️ Summary Through a Catholic Lens

  • The story follows a group of convicts escaping Devil’s Island, including Verne (Clark Gable), a cynical thief, and Julie (Joan Crawford), a disillusioned saloon girl.
  • Among them is Cambreau (Ian Hunter), a mysterious, serene figure who gradually reveals himself as a Christ-like presence—calm, compassionate, and seemingly omniscient.
  • Cambreau doesn’t preach but quietly offers each character a chance at transformation. His presence unsettles the hardened men, yet draws them toward introspection and, for some, repentance.
  • The journey becomes less about physical escape and more about spiritual reckoning. Cambreau’s final moments—adrift in cruciform pose—evoke Christ’s sacrifice and the offer of salvation.

✨ Catholic Themes & Lessons

  • Christ Among Sinners: Cambreau embodies Christ’s willingness to walk among the broken, offering grace without coercion. His quiet companionship mirrors Luke 24’s Emmaus moment—recognition dawning slowly.
  • Free Will & Redemption: Each convict must choose whether to accept Cambreau’s guidance. Some do, some reject it—echoing the Catholic understanding of free will and the personal nature of salvation.
  • Sacramental Imagery: Water, light, and bread appear throughout the film, subtly evoking baptism, divine illumination, and Eucharistic echoes.
  • The Power of Love: Julie’s transformation from bitterness to tenderness reflects the healing power of love—human and divine. Her final union with Verne hints at the sanctification of even the most wounded relationships.

🧭 Spiritual Takeaways

  • Christ doesn’t force—He invites. Cambreau’s gentle presence reminds us that grace is offered, not imposed.
  • Redemption is possible, even in the darkest places. Devil’s Island becomes a metaphor for spiritual exile, and the journey out mirrors the path of conversion.
  • We are never too far gone. Verne’s hardened heart softens, not through punishment, but through encounter—an echo of the prodigal son.

Bach died 1950


Christopher’s Corner

·         Beans Month bursts into July with a celebration of one of the world’s favorite and most versatile ingredient—beans!

·         Eat waffles and Pray for the assistance of the Angels

·         Bucket List trip[2]USA 70-degree year trip:

o    Port Angeles

·         Spirit Hour: Dark and Stormy Cocktail

·         Foodie-Pacific NW Clam Chowder

·         MondayLitany of Humility

·         Don’t be full of yourself

o   Let Freedom Ring Day 22 Freedom from Narcissism

 

§  In Greek mythology, we find the rather tragic figure of Narcissus. As the story goes, he is an extraordinary young man in every possible way. But, he is aloof and rather full of himself. Anyone who falls in love with him pays a steep price because he will not love them back. Eventually, while hunting, Narcissus stoops down to the water to get a drink. He sees his own reflection and falls madly in love with it. He reaches out to grab the reflection and drowns, suffering the abysmal fate others who tried to love him did. In psychology, narcissism is described as "selfishness, involving a sense of entitlement, a lack of empathy, and a need for admiration, as characterizing a personality type." My brothers and sisters, does not this word describe our society to a T?

  

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood     





JULY 28 Monday

 

Luke, Chapter 1, verse 30

Then the angel said to her, “Do not be AFRAID, Mary, for you have found favor with God.

 

Mary had no fear of the world or man, yet, when the angel appeared she was immersed in holy fear. Let us follow Mary’s example and bravely face the day saying YES to God.

 

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Luke 1:30 is such a tender moment—Gabriel’s words pierce through the mystery and awe with reassurance: “Do not be afraid.” It’s not just comfort; it’s a divine invitation to trust.

Mary’s fear wasn’t worldly—it was the trembling awe that comes from encountering the holy. She didn’t cower; she listened. And then she said yes. That “yes” wasn’t passive—it was courageous, active, and transformative. She became the first disciple of Christ before He was even born.

Holy fear isn’t about shrinking back—it’s about standing in reverence and stepping forward in faith. It’s the kind of fear that leads to surrender, not paralysis.

There are some rich lessons drawn from Luke 1:30,—each one echoing Mary’s encounter with the divine and her courageous “yes”:

🌟 Lessons from Luke 1:30

·         God’s favor is unearned grace
Mary didn’t earn her role through merit; she was chosen by grace. This reminds us that divine favor often comes as a gift, not a reward.

·         Holy fear is not worldly fear
Mary’s fear wasn’t of danger—it was awe in the presence of the sacred. It teaches us to distinguish between fear that paralyzes and reverence that awakens.

·         God calls us by name
Gabriel addresses Mary personally. This shows that God’s invitations are intimate and specific—He knows us deeply and calls us uniquely.

·         Fear is often the first reaction to divine calling
Even the most faithful may tremble when God interrupts their plans. But the angel’s words—“Do not be afraid”—are a divine refrain throughout scripture, urging trust over terror.

·         Saying “yes” to God requires courage
Mary’s assent wasn’t passive. It was a bold step into mystery, risk, and transformation. Her “yes” is a model of active faith.

·         Favor doesn’t mean ease
Mary’s path was filled with uncertainty and sacrifice. God’s favor equips us for purpose, not comfort.

·         God’s plans often begin in obscurity
Mary was a young woman in a small town, yet she became the vessel of salvation. This reminds us that greatness often begins in hidden places.

Novena in Honor of Saint John Marie Vianney[1]

Complete Trust in God

Saint John Marie Baptist Vianney, what confidence the people had in your prayers! You could not leave your old rectory or your humble church without being surrounded by imploring souls, who appealed to you as they would have appealed to Jesus Himself during His earthly life. And you, O good Saint, gave them hope by your words, which were full of love for God. You, who had always counted entirely on the heart of God, obtain for me a deep filial trust in His Providence. As the hope of divine goods fills my heart, give me courage and help me to always obey the Commandments of God. Holy Priest of Ars, I have confidence in your intercession. Pray for me during this novena especially for ... (mention silently your special intentions).

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be.

Bible in a Year-Day 39

Today, Fr. Mike explains how God's heart is revealed through his commandments, and how we are all called to a life of justice, as we read from Exodus 22, Leviticus 15, and Psalm 76.

Daily Devotions

·         Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Binding and suppressing the Devils Evil Works

·         Litany of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus

·         Religion in the Home for Preschool: July

·         Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood

·         Universal Man Plan

·         Rosary

 


[2] Schultz, Patricia. 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: A Traveler's Life List Workman Publishing Company. Kindle Edition. 


Sunday, July 27, 2025


Claire’s Corner

·         Today in honor of the Holy Trinity do the Divine Office giving your day to God. To honor God REST: no shopping after 6 pm Saturday till Monday. Don’t forget the internet.

·         Bucket List Trip: Around the World “Perfect Weather”

§  PretoriaSouth Africa

·         Foodie: South African Koeksisters

o   Or go south to Mexico

§  Menu

·         Michelada

·         Albondigas

·         Instant Pot Black Beans

·         Slow-Cooker Barbacoa

·         Homemade Churros

·         Spirit Hour: Douglas Green Wine

·         Wild About Wildlife Month

·         On Sundays Pray:

o   O Glorious Queen of Heaven and Earth, Virgin Most Powerful, thou who hast the power to crush the head of the ancient serpent with thy heel, come and exercise this power flowing from the grace of thine Immaculate Conception. Shield us under the mantle of thy purity and love, draw us into the sweet abode of thy heart and annihilate and render impotent the forces bent on destroying us. Come Most Sovereign Mistress of the Holy Angels and Mistress of the Most Holy Rosary, thou who from the very beginning hast received from God the power and the mission to crush the head of Satan. Send forth thy holy legions, we humbly beseech thee, that under thy command and by thy power they may pursue the evil spirits, counter them on every side, resist their bold attacks and drive them far from us, harming no one on the way, binding them to the foot of the Cross to be judged and sentenced by Jesus Christ Thy Son and to be disposed of by Him as He wills.

o   St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, come to our aid in this grave battle against the forces of darkness, repel the attacks of the devil and free the members of the Auxilium Christianorum, and those for whom the priests of the Auxilium Christianorum pray, from the strongholds of the enemy.

o   St. Michael, summon the entire heavenly court to engage their forces in this fierce battle against the powers of hell. Come O Prince of Heaven with thy mighty sword and thrust into hell Satan and all the other evil spirits. O Guardian Angels, guide and protect us. Amen.

God's blessings are indeed signs of His goodness, signs of His infinite Love. Are we indifferent to those signs of His goodness and love? Are we so unaware of His signs that we are disconnected from Him that we can take it or leave it?

·         Let Freedom Ring Day 21 Freedom from Indifference

·         St. Pantaleon (July 27th), bishop and martyr. Invoked against consumption, protection for domestic animals and patron of physicians and midwives



 

JULY 27 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Novena St. John Vianney-Scotch Whisky Day-Parents' Day 

Luke, Chapter 1, verse 13:

13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be AFRAID, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. 

To a Pious Jew and especially a Levi priest the knowledge that God is so holy we dare not even say His name. Notice frequently in the bible the angels will use the term, “Do not be afraid”, and this is because at times we knowing our sinfulness may not feel worthy. Feeling unworthy is a tool the evil one often uses to discourage us from doing good works. 

I have felt this fear of being unworthy often. In the mid-seventies while still a youth in my 20’s I was chosen to be a lay Eucharistic minister while working at the South Pole in Antarctica by the priest that had come 900 miles to bring our Lord to us catholic boys working I didn’t feel worthy; come on this is Richard you know; but the Priest convinced me that it was the only way and I did want to bring “Our Lord” to my fellow brothers in Christ. 

We must remember that the evil one will sow fear in our hearts trying to convince us we are unworthy and if we listen we become like the man who out of fear buried his talent in the ground.

 

Copilot

 

🙏 1. Fear as a Threshold to Grace

·         In scripture, fear often precedes divine encounter—Moses before the burning bush, Isaiah in the temple, Zechariah in the sanctuary.

o    Catholic tradition sees this fear not as rejection, but as a reverent awe that opens us to grace.

§  The Catechism calls this “filial fear”—a fear not of punishment, but of offending the One we love (CCC 1831).

🛡️ 2. The Evil One Exploits Fear

·         Saints and spiritual writers warn that fear is one of the enemy’s favorite tools.

o    It isolates, paralyzes, and convinces us we are unworthy or alone.

§  But Christ’s repeated “Do not be afraid” is a direct counter to this lie. As one reflection puts it: “Fear is powerful... but it’s part of the enemy’s plan to overshadow our life with unbearable darkness”.

🌊 3. Trust Over Terror: Peter on the Water

·         Matthew 14:22–33 is a masterclass in fear and faith. Peter walks on water until fear overtakes him.

o    Jesus doesn’t scold him for stepping out—He catches him. The lesson? Faith doesn’t mean fear won’t come; it means we know Who to reach for when it does.

🕊️ 4. Saints Who Faced Fear

·         St. Aloysius Gonzaga faced plague, family pressure, and early death—but chose holiness over fear.

o    St. Margaret Mary taught that nothing displeases God more than our uneasiness and despondency. Her advice? “Let Him act!”

📖 5. Fear of the Lord vs. Fear of the World

·         Catholic teaching distinguishes between holy fear (reverence) and worldly fear (anxiety).

o    Jesus says in Luke 12:4–5: “Fear him who, after he has killed, has power to cast into hell.” This isn’t to terrify—it’s to redirect our fear toward what truly matters.

6. Practical Steps to Overcome Fear

·         Daily prayer and scripture meditation, especially on verses like “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid” (Mark 6:50).

o    Eucharistic Adoration, where fear meets Presence.

§  Spiritual direction or confession, which 

ON KEEPING THE LORD'S DAY HOLY[1]

CHAPTER III

DIES ECCLESIAE

The Eucharistic Assembly:
Heart of Sunday

The Sunday obligation

46. Since the Eucharist is the very heart of Sunday, it is clear why, from the earliest centuries, the Pastors of the Church have not ceased to remind the faithful of the need to take part in the liturgical assembly. "Leave everything on the Lord's Day", urges the third century text known as the Didascalia, "and run diligently to your assembly, because it is your praise of God. Otherwise, what excuse will they make to God, those who do not come together on the Lord's Day to hear the word of life and feed on the divine nourishment which lasts forever?". The faithful have generally accepted this call of the Pastors with conviction of soul and, although there have been times and situations when this duty has not been perfectly met, one should never forget the genuine heroism of priests and faithful who have fulfilled this obligation even when faced with danger and the denial of religious freedom, as can be documented from the first centuries of Christianity up to our own time.

In his first Apology addressed to the Emperor Antoninus and the Senate, Saint Justin proudly described the Christian practice of the Sunday assembly, which gathered in one place Christians from both the city and the countryside. When, during the persecution of Diocletian, their assemblies were banned with the greatest severity, many were courageous enough to defy the imperial decree and accepted death rather than miss the Sunday Eucharist. This was the case of the martyrs of Abitina, in Proconsular Africa, who replied to their accusers: "Without fear of any kind we have celebrated the Lord's Supper, because it cannot be missed; that is our law"; "We cannot live without the Lord's Supper". As she confessed her faith, one of the martyrs said: "Yes, I went to the assembly and I celebrated the Lord's Supper with my brothers and sisters, because I am a Christian".

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost[2]

"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord’, . . .but he who does the will of my Father. . .shall enter the kingdom of heaven". Not so much what one "says" about the Lord, but how he "does" His "Will," is what brings forth "good fruit". Deeds, not mere words, are acceptable to God, acceptable to neighbor also. Example is the best precept.

The final fruit of sin is "death;" the fruit of "justice" is "life everlasting".

The Holy Eucharist is the "health-giving" Fruit of Calvary, our antidote against the poison-laden Dead-Sea fruit of the world, the flesh and the devil.

"Faith cannot save without virtue" (St. John Chrysostom). 

IN[3] the Introit of the Mass the Church invites us to the praise of God in the following words: “Oh, clap your hands, all ye nations, shout unto God with the voice of joy, for the Lord is most high, He is terrible: He is a great king over all the earth”; (Ps.xlvi. 2, 3).

Prayer. O God, whose providence never faileth in what it doth order, we humbly beseech Thee to put away from us all things hurtful, and to give us all things profitable to us.

EPISTLE. Rom. vi. 19-23.

Brethren: I speak a human thing, because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as you have yielded your members to serve uncleanness and iniquity unto iniquity, so now yield your members to serve justice unto sanctification. For when you were the servants of sin you were free men to justice. What fruit therefore had you then in those things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of them is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, you have your fruit unto sanctification, and the end life everlasting. For the wages of sin is death, but the grace of God, life everlasting in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Explanation. In these words, St. Paul admonishes the Romans that they ought henceforward to devote themselves as zealously to the service of God as they had hitherto done to that of iniquity, because the service of sin is death, but the service of God is life everlasting. The words “servants, to serve”, denote the full and unconditional subjection of the Christian to God, without walking any longer according to his own will, just as, in regard to the state of sin, they indicate the dominion of the passions over the sinner. There is no requirement more reasonable than that a man should labor as much for God and his own salvation as he has labored for sin and hell. We should, therefore, often think on the wages of sin eternal death; and when we are tempted, ask ourselves, “What shall I gain by my lust, my in justice, my vengeance? Ah, nothing but eternal death! And shall I, created to inherit eternal life, shall I make myself the heir of eternal death?”

GOSPEL. Matt. vii. 15-21.

At that time Jesus said to His disciples: Beware of false prophets, who come to you in the clothing of sheep, but inwardly they are ravening wolves: by their fruits you shall know them. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, and the evil tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit: neither can an evil tree bring forth good fruit: every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit shall be cut down and shall be cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them. Not everyone that saith to Me: Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doth the will of My Father Who is in heaven, he shall enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Who are meant by false prophets?

1. The world, which promises us honors and riches, but in the end rewards our toil and labor with disgrace and scorn.

2. The flesh, which promises pleasures and joys, but at last leaves nothing but the bitter reproaches of an unquiet conscience.

3. The devil, who promises us a long life, and time for repentance, while the obdurate sinner is cut off suddenly in the midst of his days.

4. All such evil-minded persons as conceal their wicked purpose under the mask of virtue and honesty, until they have entrapped unwary souls, and drawn them into all kinds of shameful misdeeds. It is these false prophets of Satan, and wolves of hell, that make the greatest havoc in the flock of Christ.

Why does Christ say, “every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit shall be cut down and cast into the fire”?

He thereby warns us that faith alone, without good works, or, in other. words, the mere desire for heaven without the practice of virtue, will not save us. Christ says plainly, “Not everyone that saith to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doth the will of My Father Who is in heaven.” Jesus also saith, “Whosoever shall do the will of My Father Who is in heaven, he is My brother, and sister, and mother; (Matt. xii. 50). Endeavor, therefore, O Christian, to fulfil in all things the will of God.

INSTRUCTION ON GOOD WORKS

 

What are good works?

 

All actions of men which are done according to the will of God, from love of Him, and by the help of grace.

 

Which are the principal good works?

 

Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Prayer including all acts belonging to the service of God: fasting, all mortifications of the body; almsgiving, all works of mercy.

 

How many are the works of mercy?

 

Two: corporal and spiritual.

 

Which are the spiritual works of mercy?

 

Those which have for their object the salvation of our neighbor; as,

 

1, to admonish the sinner.

2, to instruct the ignorant.

3, to counsel the doubtful.

4, to comfort the afflicted.

5, to bear wrongs patiently.

6, to forgive injuries and offences.

7, to pray for the living and the dead.

 

Which are the corporal works of mercy?

 

1, To feed the hungry.

2, to give drink to the thirsty.

3, to clothe the naked.

4, to visit the prisoners.

5, to shelter the houseless.

6, to visit the sick.

7, to bury the dead.

 

What is necessary to render works meritorious?

 

1, They must be good in themselves.

2, they must be done by the grace of God.

3, in the state of grace.

4, by free will.

5, with the good intention of pleasing God.

Can we be saved without good works?

No; for Christ says expressly, “Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit shall be cut down and shall be cast into the fire.” And that servant in the Gospel (Matt. xxv. 25) who neither wasted his talent nor yet traded with it, but digged into the earth and hid his lord’s money, was therefore cast into the outer darkness. 

The Feast of St. John Vianney is on August 4th. 

Novena in Honor of Saint John Marie Vianney[4]

Ardent Faith

Saint John Marie Baptist Vianney you were born of a deeply religious mother; from her you received the Holy Faith; you learned to love God and to pray. At a young age, you were seen kneeling in front of the statue of Mary. Your soul was supernaturally carried towards the things on High. Despite the high cost, you answered your vocation! Against many obstacles and contradictions, you had to fight and suffer to become the perfect priest which you were. But your deep spirit of faith supported you in all these battles. O Great Saint you know the desire of my soul; I would like to serve God better; from Him I have received so many good things. For this, obtain for me more courage and especially the depth of faith. Many of my thoughts, words, and actions are useless for my sanctification and for my salvation, because this supernatural spirit does not stir up my life. Help me to be better in the future. Holy Priest of Ars, I have confidence in your intercession. Pray for me during this novena especially for ... (mention silently your special intentions).

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be

Bible in a Year-Day 39

Fr. Mike gives us the historical context around the commandments on slavery to help us better grasp the concept of slavery in the Old Testament. Today we read from Exodus 21, Leviticus 14, and Psalm 75.

Scotch Whisky Day[5]

The Babylonians of Mesopotamia were likely the first people to distill alcohol as 2nd millennium BC. At the time it is likely that various perfumes and aromatics were most often distilled. The earliest records of the distillation of alcohol for the purpose of drinking date back to 13th century Italy, where harder alcohols were distilled from wine. Soon, the practice of distillation use spread through medieval monasteries and was used largely for medicinal purposes, such as the treatment of smallpox and other illnesses. Distillation spread to todays Great Britain in the 15th century, and the first evidence of whisky production in Scotland comes from an entry in the Exchequer Rolls for 1494 where malt is sent To Friar John Cor, by order of the king, to make aquavitae, enough to make about 500 bottles. Whisky production later moved out of a monastic setting and into personal homes and farms when King Henry VIII of England dissolved all the monasteries in his country due to his feud with the Pope, causing the monks to find a way to earn a living for themselves. However, the distillation process in those days was much more basic than it is today, and the whisky itself was not allowed to age, meaning it must have tasted much rawer than it does today.

Scotch Whisky Day was created to celebrate this alcoholic beverage in all of its glory and remind people that Ballantines is not as good as it gets!

How to celebrate Scotch Whisky Day

There are hundreds of distilleries in Scotland you have likely never heard of that make whisky better than youve ever tried before, and this day is the day to experience them. The best part is that not all good Scotch whiskies are expensive, so if you want to enjoy this day to the fullest, you can order 5 or 6 miniaturesor more, if you decide to invite people over to share the funand enjoy an evening of sampling the unique whiskies Scotland has to offer. Ten-, twelve- and even fifteen-year-old single malt Scotch whisky miniatures can be purchased for under £5 and are sure to help you understand why this drink is loved worldwide. and because it is usually a bad idea to drink strong alcohol on an empty stomach, make sure you have some snacks on hand during your whisky-tasting as well! Cheeses like Roquefort go well with many whiskies, as does high-quality dark chocolate. If you feel like eating something more filling, try a simple meat dish like slow-roasted pork spareribs.

There are also quite a few films to choose from that would be perfect for this day, such as The Angels Share, an acclaimed Scottish comedy-drama about a man trying to get his life back on track after narrowly avoiding a prison sentence. The titular angels share is what distilleries call the portion (share) of a whiskys volume that is lost to evaporation during aging in oak barrels.

Parents' Day[6]

Parents’ Day celebrates and recognizes the important role of responsible parenting in everyday family life. Families are a fundamental human institution; they are bonded by unconditional love and commitment. Parents' Day was established in 1994 and the National Parents’ Day Coalition was developed to support Parents’ Day by annually selecting ‘Parents’ of the Year’ at local, national and state levels.  The Coalition also provides educational programs for parents and aims to promote the stability of family by encouraging fidelity between husbands and wives, as well as abstinence in young people prior to marriage.  In addition to The National Parents’ Day Coalition, other organizations use Parents’ Day to promote the traditional two parent nuclear family model. Parents' Day is held annually on the fourth Sunday in July.

Parents' Day Facts & Quotes

·         In 2015, 3.3 million unmarried or cohabiting couples in America had children under the age of 18.  This is in comparison to 1.2 million cohabiting couples with children in 1996. In 1960, 73% of U.S. children lived in a traditional home with two married heterosexual parents in their first marriage.  By 1980, this figure had dropped to 61%.  By 2013, 46% of children lived in a traditional home.

·         All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother. — Abraham Lincoln.

·         By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was right, he usually has a son who thinks he's wrong. — Charles Wadsworth, Classical Pianist

Daily Devotions

·         Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Protection of Life from Conception until natural death.

·         Litany of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus

·         Religion in the Home for Preschool: July

·         Offering to the sacred heart of Jesus

·         Drops of Christ’s Blood

·         Universal Man Plan

·         Rosary



[2]My Sunday Missal, Confraternity of the Precious Blood

[3]Goffine’s Devout Instructions, 1896

[4]http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/prayers/view.cfm?id=1129

[5] https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/scotch-whisky-day/