tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29305899545192719062024-03-05T20:43:10.628-05:00the spirit of charityreflections from the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de PaulDaughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.comBlogger363125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-16048629981440204132020-10-06T04:53:00.000-04:002020-10-06T15:17:17.112-04:00Feast of the Rosary<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTPFQlXtaXMxNbYa6miTdDSGa8RPJSWg3flqhVyfr6ZJdlKk7BnxK0W_99w8O715HSyV_ihy2Vyr1l7f_pNy3Znx_4ATVdliDJyxoJGfvwhVBa4izn9upvWPh9y5VFHxaZ_Cbp7ufrZg/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTPFQlXtaXMxNbYa6miTdDSGa8RPJSWg3flqhVyfr6ZJdlKk7BnxK0W_99w8O715HSyV_ihy2Vyr1l7f_pNy3Znx_4ATVdliDJyxoJGfvwhVBa4izn9upvWPh9y5VFHxaZ_Cbp7ufrZg/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a>The rosary is a simple prayer with great power that has been prayed for years. According to the stories, St. Dominic received the rosary from the Virgin Mary in 1214. The Feast of the Rosary was brought about by St. Pius V in 1573.<br />
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The rosary has developed throughout the years. In the Middle Ages, the monastic monks prayed the 150 psalms. Many of the laity and some monks were unable to read and began a practice of praying 150 "Our Fathers" and 150 "Hail Marys." The rosary, in its present form, was developed in the 16th century. In 2002, Pope John Paul II added the Luminous Mysteries.<br />
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In <i>Praying the Rosary Like Never Before: Encounter the Wonder of Heaven and Earth</i>, Edward Sri does a wonderful job explaining the rosary and sharing ways to make it a more meaningful prayer in our daily lives.<br />
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In chapter 7, Sri shares 10 of St. John Paul II's insights to encountering Jesus more in the rosary. These are:<br />
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<li><b>Announce each mystery and visualize it.</b></li>
<li><b>Listen to the word of God. </b>Look up the mystery in the Bible and read the passage slowly before starting that decade of the rosary.</li>
<li><b>Silence. </b>At least briefly at the beginning of each decade, use silence to recollect yourself and to help yourself listen to how God will speak to you while praying it.</li>
<li><b>The Our Father: Praying in union with God's family. </b>Never pray the rosary in isolation in a sense to honor God and our union with others.</li>
<li><b>The Hail Marys: Contemplating Christ with His mother. </b>"Contemplating the scenes of the rosary in union with Mary is a means of learning to "read" Christ, to discover His secrets, and to understand His message," (P. 45, RVM 14).</li>
<li><b>Glory Be: The height of our contemplation. </b>Praise to God in response to these events of salvation.</li>
<li><b>A concluding prayer: Life application.</b> It is popular practice to use the Fatima prayer at the end of each decade; however, Pope John Paul II opens an opportunity for other prayers. For example, at the end of the first joyful mystery, the Annunciation could be prayed: "Pray for us, Mary, that we may respond in obedient faith as you did."</li>
<li><b>The beads as symbols.</b></li>
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<li>The beads converging on the crucifix represent the beginning and the end of the prayers of the rosary. They can remind us of Christian life centered on Christ.</li>
<li>The chain of beads symbolize linking us to God and His servants.</li>
<li>The chain reminds us of our relationship with others. They are intertwined in the common bond of Christ. Often, we pray for special intentions.</li>
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<li><b>Opening and closing. </b>The Apostles Creed, 1 Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Hail Holy Queen, Prayer for the Pope.</li>
<li><b>Weekly rhythm of the mysteries. </b>The Pope says that the rosary, with its mysteries, gives each day its spiritual color.</li>
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Is the rosary a part of your life? Do you ever get tired of praying the rosary? Does your mind sometimes wander when praying the rosary? If so, that is okay! We are just asked to be faithful. God will work through us to do wonderful things. If the rosary is not a part of your life, you're invited to learn more about the rosary and how it can enrich your life.</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Mary Shea, D.C.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-18079103083962209052020-10-01T01:24:00.000-04:002020-10-01T10:17:27.161-04:00Feast of the Guardian Angels<div style="text-align: center;">
Angel of God, my guardian dear,</div>
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To whom God's love commits me here.</div>
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Every this day/night be at my side,</div>
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To light, to guide, to rule, and guide. Amen.</div>
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I want to tell a story that came from another sister. She was in the car with five other Daughters of Charity and the sister who was driving was unaware of an upcoming stop sign. Another car was heading directly toward them. The five sisters ducked, lowering their heads to protect themselves from the inevitable collision. But the cars didn't hit. How could this be? Truly, the providence of God sent their guardian angels to protect them all!</div>
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I'll admit that I don't think about my guardian angel enough. Certainly, I become aware on the feasts of the Archangels or when I narrowly avoid an accident. But for me, I have felt the presence of my guardian angel the most at my darkest moments, when I feel like I can't pray. It could be the death of someone close, a seemingly impossible situation, or a failure. These are the times I have recourse to my greatest advocates: the Virgin Mary and my guardian angel. They pray for me when I don't have the words. As the Creed says, "I believe in things seen and unseen." It's a reminder that, no matter how isolated I might feel, I am never truly alone.</div>
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Celebrate your guardian angel on their feast today and forever.</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Nancy Stewart, D.C.</i></div>
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Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-23405842528972532042020-09-25T02:07:00.000-04:002020-09-25T13:00:44.161-04:00Feast of St. Vincent de Paul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjoGWYsjY6Wd4tUVniQyYKyAQ_6brnvQxd4iBCs8TAM_6ga3NJKNJxmUK9EXgDWNfxwsrz1PfPB2YsabzBaB47BgfzfoBV3IHZaDe9YFWx_bcLxqrvOCyBB-hOA5OVIP1JrXazSrtkKU/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="362" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjoGWYsjY6Wd4tUVniQyYKyAQ_6brnvQxd4iBCs8TAM_6ga3NJKNJxmUK9EXgDWNfxwsrz1PfPB2YsabzBaB47BgfzfoBV3IHZaDe9YFWx_bcLxqrvOCyBB-hOA5OVIP1JrXazSrtkKU/s320/Picture1.png" width="221" /></a></div>
St. Vincent de Paul, co-founder of the Daughters of Charity, was a man of many talents. Talents which have been emulated throughout the past four centuries by organizations around the world. Many of these groups attach Vincent's name to their programs for impoverished people and his name has become a symbol of charitable service and ingenuity.<br />
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The Daughters of Charity were one of the first three groups who worked under the inspiration of Vincent. The Ladies of Charity began in 1617, the Vincentian priests (the Congregation of the Mission) in 1625, and our sisters (the Daughters of Charity) in 1633. All three groups have remained international and active since their founding.<br />
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Among his many talents, Vincent was able to draw other people into sharing whatever gifts they had to facilitate programs which assisted desperate populations. Rich ladies gathered up and cared for abandoned infants. Government officials provided access to helping prisoners. Wealthy patrons provided the money to support country ministries and poor country girls served those who were homeless and sick in the city. There was always a balance of Vincent's audacious creativity and the resources he made available through people invited to help make those ideas a reality.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjqF17L4R8ks9nx_xQkWwxIVOz4SPGCQAyCPrQ6u9F97vL4g_ZtK0aT76DJM-xN0ZMyIGd65OYL5ALNmtSgskUSz-TsTMj0NOGN3PAEh2wdTEdeX0MtZyEpAcXEg2mphD3xisnCpYBL4/s1600/Picture3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="573" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjqF17L4R8ks9nx_xQkWwxIVOz4SPGCQAyCPrQ6u9F97vL4g_ZtK0aT76DJM-xN0ZMyIGd65OYL5ALNmtSgskUSz-TsTMj0NOGN3PAEh2wdTEdeX0MtZyEpAcXEg2mphD3xisnCpYBL4/s320/Picture3.png" width="252" /></a>The sisters continue to do the direct service so dear to our hearts. However, we also follow Vincent's lead and continually invite others to help make that service possible. Little can be done without the resources, skills, influence, and collaboration that results in both effective service for the immediate problem and the systemic change that prevents or reduces the problem in the future. This "now and later" approach was Vincent's and is now ours. It means, for example, that programs do not just feed the hungry, but offer education or job preparation. It means not only respect for the dignity of each person, but also advocacy for equality in our laws.<br />
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We serve under the banner of St. Vincent de Paul because his example of organized service systems is as important and effective today as it was in 17th century France.<br />
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St. Vincent de Paul, pray for us!<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Mary Louise Stubbs, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-51713097766723297592020-07-29T17:01:00.000-04:002020-07-29T17:01:01.051-04:00World Day Against Trafficking in Persons<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPm6g7J9KxzwgA0WhxhL701iCxB_YpWpMr5Yzc6Y7yOUfDMXJlh9edx3OehHZWz2BLRw4cdLqPVVQPIR_KewF6c5EqX3AwKs_t30xlHvJc_uD0es1n5Zbqtqw6GKbI67ibs_shVY_xjw/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="110" data-original-width="79" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPm6g7J9KxzwgA0WhxhL701iCxB_YpWpMr5Yzc6Y7yOUfDMXJlh9edx3OehHZWz2BLRw4cdLqPVVQPIR_KewF6c5EqX3AwKs_t30xlHvJc_uD0es1n5Zbqtqw6GKbI67ibs_shVY_xjw/s200/Picture1.png" width="143" /></a> "Certainly, there is a lot of ignorance on the topic of trafficking. But sometimes, there also seems to be little will to understand the scope of the issue. Why? Because it touches close to our conscience; because it is thorny; because it is shameful. Then there are those who, even knowing this, do no want to speak because they are at the end of the "supply chain" as a user of the "services" that are offered on the street or on the internet... Yes, it takes courage and honesty when, in our daily lives, we meet or deal with persons who could be victims of human trafficking, or when we are tempted to select items which may well have been produced by exploiting others.<br />
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"The work of raising awareness must begin at home, with ourselves, because only in this way will we be able to then make our communities aware, motivating them to commit themselves so that no human being may ever again be a victim of trafficking."<br />
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<i>Pope Francis, February 2018</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgvad3nFH0NA_ZN6RdCfxNd3baYiPnYDC2kJ9Lqcpu3TDISuALtgzXp0MOeQj9Q4_rf-LgR_t667O_sVgLbO0U9PzAQs_6VZaiUUVWCG0VJqHgDLekky_JYouEvbq2NSXGTu7NfqMz1c/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="91" data-original-width="162" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivgvad3nFH0NA_ZN6RdCfxNd3baYiPnYDC2kJ9Lqcpu3TDISuALtgzXp0MOeQj9Q4_rf-LgR_t667O_sVgLbO0U9PzAQs_6VZaiUUVWCG0VJqHgDLekky_JYouEvbq2NSXGTu7NfqMz1c/s200/Picture2.png" width="200" /></a>St. Vincent reminds his Daughters that love embraces justice. The Daughters of Charity are constantly solicitous for the development of every person in all the aspects of their being. That is why they are always alert to the ways of helping their brothers and sisters to become conscious of their own and agent of their own promotion. They plead the cause of the underprivileged who do not have the possibility of making their legitimate demands and aspirations heard. (Constitutions 24e)</div>
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<b>What is your response? What will you do to rid the world of this plight against God's loved ones?</b></div>
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<i>Created by Sister Regina Hlavac, D.C.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-76904909774656272432020-06-08T04:33:00.000-04:002020-05-20T14:18:34.107-04:00Pentecost and the Lumière<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsbymih4RiVJUh7yuhyphenhyphentNQx6HVA7C5t3UQSDoSNIWpLLYGTH7KIA0lDVAnvS6_EJ44DYVDyArWEdgYat6K7gdtLz3MKgcnVKS4kmSl7f5t1d5CYVQnqsoEyybMet7owrNTEi8uFsfoe0/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsbymih4RiVJUh7yuhyphenhyphentNQx6HVA7C5t3UQSDoSNIWpLLYGTH7KIA0lDVAnvS6_EJ44DYVDyArWEdgYat6K7gdtLz3MKgcnVKS4kmSl7f5t1d5CYVQnqsoEyybMet7owrNTEi8uFsfoe0/s400/Picture1.png" /></a>Have you ever had an experience that was so life-changing and memorable that you just had to write about it afterwards? Perhaps you relayed it in great detail in a diary, prayer journal, or letter to a friend. St. Louise had experience like that on the Feast of Pentecost in 1623.<br />
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Louise had been going through a very difficult time. In 1620, after only seven years of marriage, her husband Antoine fell ill. His illness, probably tuberculosis, made him moody and irritable and would, five years later, result in his death. In this time of darkness, Louise began to blame herself for her husband's distress and wondered whether this was a punishment from God. She even questioned her life choice of marriage (and she had never forgotten her original intention to become a nun, a choice which had been denied by the superior of the order due to her own fragile health.) Louise was filled with great anguish and self-doubt. She questioned her own goodness and felt that she was a failure in the eyes of God. Anyone who has struggled with depression, hopelessness, or regret can identify with her feelings at this time.<br />
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While at Mass on the Feast of Pentecost, Louise received a powerful experience of God's love and grace, which she called "Light" (in French, <i>Lumière</i>). We are blessed that her written description of this event still exists to this day and we can read the compelling words written in her own hand:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpHYUdSqKhXnZ_YIEijcalpzwcCoEVTDswDHDkEx9ncOvD52v0ZT1cJngvgISqwIAmyFQLhl3TbkxI0rPVlWF0oA-Jxe4ieNMUrM7UZPGxr44v2fd0sumMj4xnDBX1gAcdWjehsg1lBrU/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpHYUdSqKhXnZ_YIEijcalpzwcCoEVTDswDHDkEx9ncOvD52v0ZT1cJngvgISqwIAmyFQLhl3TbkxI0rPVlWF0oA-Jxe4ieNMUrM7UZPGxr44v2fd0sumMj4xnDBX1gAcdWjehsg1lBrU/s320/Picture2.png" width="194" /></a>"<i>My mind was instantly freed of all doubt. I was advised that I should remain with my husband and that a time would come when I would be in a position to make vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience and that I would be in a small community where others would do the same. I then understood that I would be in a place where I could help my neighbor, but I did not understand how this would be possible since there was to be much coming and going."</i><br />
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It is interesting to note that, even though Louise received great assurance of God's love, guidance, and care for her, she did not yet have a full understanding of what the future would hold. In fact, we know that she would continue to care for her ailing husband for at least two more years before his death. During that time, however, Louise would also meet Vincent de Paul who would become her spiritual director and would continue God's healing work in her heart. Together, they would revolutionize the care of those living in poverty and ultimately found the Daughters of Charity in 1633 where Louise would see the fulfillment of her <i>Lumière</i> in the taking of vows that her heart had longed for in the comings and goings of numerous Daughters of Charity in the service of those who are poor.<br />
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Can you recall a time when you felt an inner assurance of God's love and care for you, even when the future seemed uncertain?<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Chris Maggi, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-20286522968943736372020-06-07T02:00:00.000-04:002020-06-07T02:00:03.828-04:00God's Plan for Humanity"God's plan for humanity is good, but in our daily affairs, we experience the presence of evil. It is a <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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daily experience. The first chapters of the Book of Genesis describe the progressive expansion of sin in human affairs. Adam and Even doubt God's good intentions; they think they are dealing with an envious God who impedes their happiness. This is where their rebellion comes from: they no longer believe in a generous Creator who desires their happiness. Yielding to the temptation of evil, their hearts are overcome by a delirium of omnipotence: 'if we eat the fruit from the tree, we will become like God.' And this is temptation: this is ambition that enters hearts. But their experience goes in the opposite direction: their eyes are opened and they discover they are named, with nothing. Do not forget this: the tempter is a bad payer, he does not pay well.<br />
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"Evil becomes even more disruptive with the second human generation, it is stronger: it is the story of Cain and Abel. Cain is envious of his brother; there is the seed of envy; even though he is the first born, he sees Abel as a rival, one who undermines his primacy. Evil appears in his heart and Cain is unable to control it. Evil begins to enter his hear: his thoughts are always turned to looking badly upon the other, with suspicion. And this occurs with his thoughts too: 'This one is evil, heh will hurt me.' And this thought enters his heart ... And thus the story of the first brotherhood ends in murder. I think of human fraternity today...war everywhere.</div>
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"In Cain's descendants, arts and crafts develop, but violence develops too, expressed by the sinister canticle of Lamech, which sounds like a hymn of revenge: 'I have killed a man for wounding me, a young man for striking me, if Cain is avenged seven times, truly Lamech seventy-seven fold.' Vengeance: 'You did this, you will pay.' But the judge does not say this, I do. And I make myself the judge of the situation. And in this way evil spreads like wildfire, until it occupies the entire picture: 'The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.' The great frescos of the universal flood and of the tower of Babel reveal that there is need of a new beginning, like a new creation, which will be fulfilled in Jesus Christ.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yet, in these first pages of the Bible, another, less striking, much more humble and pious story is also written, which represents the release of hope. While almost everyone behaves in a wicked manner, making hatred and conquest the great engine of human affairs, there are people who are capable of praying to God with sincerity, capable of writing mankind's destiny in a different way. Abel offers God the firstling sacrifice. After his death, Adam and Eve had a third son, Seth, to whom Enosh (which means 'mortal') was born, and it is stated: 'At that time men began to call upon the name of the Lord.' Then Enoch appears, a person who 'walked with God' and was taken to heaven. And lastly there is the story of Noah, a righteous man who 'walked with God,' before whom God withheld his intention to blot out mankind.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcllAq2AOzdY5eMx18H7kvsNG4d6nYfW3jWA4F8EflR8U9AREyM9GOmeKkaueGa3FoDQgAdMZ-WgzMsONuoiXshEeYhUNKP6aizj8_VoTtk6TOyuhvgusths309Kr6L897Gfk3211NTs/s1600/thumbnail_image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="479" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcllAq2AOzdY5eMx18H7kvsNG4d6nYfW3jWA4F8EflR8U9AREyM9GOmeKkaueGa3FoDQgAdMZ-WgzMsONuoiXshEeYhUNKP6aizj8_VoTtk6TOyuhvgusths309Kr6L897Gfk3211NTs/s320/thumbnail_image001.jpg" width="320" /></a>"While reading these narratives, one has the impression that prayer is a bulwark; it is man's refuge before the flood wave of evil that grows in the world. On closer inspection, we also pray to be saved from ourselves. It is important to pray: 'Lord, please, save me from myself, from my ambitions, from my passions.' The prayerful of the first pages of the Bible are peace workers: indeed, when prayer is authentic, it frees one from the instincts of violence and it is a gaze directed to God, that he may return to take care of the heart of mankind. We read in the Catechism: 'This kind of prayer is lived by many righteous people in all religions.' Prayer cultivates flowerbeds of rebirth in places where man's hatred has only been able to expand the desert. And prayer is powerful because it attracts the power of God and the power of God always gives life: always. He is the God of life and he causes rebirth.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"This is why God's lordship passes through this chain of men and women, often misunderstood or marginalized in the world. But the world lives and grows thanks to the power of God whom these servants attract with their prayer. It is not at all a boisterous chain, and rarely makes headlines, yet it is so important to restoring trust to the world!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I remember the story of one man: an important government leader not from these days, but from the past. An atheist who had no religious feeling in his heart, but as a child he heard his grandmother pray, and this remained in his heart. And at a very difficult time in his life, that memory returned to his heart and said: 'But my grandmother used to pray....' He thus began to pray with his grandmother’s formulas, and there he found Jesus. Prayer is always a chain of life: many men and women who pray sow life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Prayer sows life, small prayers: this is why it is so important to teach children to pray. I suffer when I encounter children who do not know how to make the sign of the Cross. They have to be taught to make the sign of the Cross properly, because it is the first prayer. Then perhaps they may forget, take another path, but the first prayers learned as a child remain in the heart, because they are a seed of life, the seed of dialogue with God.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The journey of God in the history of God is conveyed through them: it has passed through a 'remainder' of humanity that has not conformed to the law of the fittest, but has asked God to perform his miracles, and above all to transform our hearts of stone into hearts of flesh. And this helps prayer: because prayer opens the door to God, turning our often stony hearts into a human heart. And this demands a lot of humanity, and with humanity one can pray well."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Taken from Pope Francis's address on May 27, 2020.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-63959102478303519432020-06-02T14:56:00.000-04:002020-06-02T14:56:16.166-04:00Heroes in Stories<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Human beings are story tellers. From childhood, we hunger for stories just as we hunger for food. Stories influence our lives, whether in the form of fairy tales, novels, films, songs, news, even if we don't always realize it. Often, we decide what is right or wrong based on characters and stories we have made our own. Stories leave their mark on us; they shape our convictions and our behavior. They can help us understand and communicate who we are... The stories of different ages all have a common "loom:" the thread of their narrative involves "heroes," including everyday heroes who, in following a dream, confront difficult situations and combat evil, driven by a force that makes them courageous, the force of love. By immersing ourselves in stories, we can find reasons to heroically face the challenges of life.</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Pope Francis on June 2, 2020.</i></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_Err83txJNRC9LiI4YFM8uIWqqR_1rFuL1v46YSldaclcvG9MhpdjxFl64uV5_dioxVexgXOSBQmbaD-MO1ihnyr4SsAm-3oOzsuP6dwDks1YeGz-Yr-EQSu1OFaLPI049PVSatZ4Dc/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="428" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_Err83txJNRC9LiI4YFM8uIWqqR_1rFuL1v46YSldaclcvG9MhpdjxFl64uV5_dioxVexgXOSBQmbaD-MO1ihnyr4SsAm-3oOzsuP6dwDks1YeGz-Yr-EQSu1OFaLPI049PVSatZ4Dc/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a>Who are your heroes or heroines from Scripture? From the Communion of Saints? From your own family?<br />
<br />
Why do you think of these people as heroes or heroines?<br />
<br />
What can you learn from these people?<br />
<br />
Are St. Vincent de Paul, St. Louise de Marillac, St. Catherine Laboure, and/or St. Elizabeth Ann Seton considered one of your heroes or heroines?<br />
<br />
<i>Submitted by Sister Regina Hlavac, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-56719841502097633032020-05-30T04:05:00.000-04:002020-05-20T14:18:07.212-04:00Feast of the Ascension<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmUrmm3uCtIav8yMmLi5UBUkIc5IiAjqWH2X7wyszWKwCHZAkRr63XEfMrtxZ6vwAqO76zXGCyKb0m6SteVqLxYSsC1yYnxEP5BO-RG9ViI8H7JV-qtbT6BYOZlkCQsWlWuKm9QvzZyM/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmUrmm3uCtIav8yMmLi5UBUkIc5IiAjqWH2X7wyszWKwCHZAkRr63XEfMrtxZ6vwAqO76zXGCyKb0m6SteVqLxYSsC1yYnxEP5BO-RG9ViI8H7JV-qtbT6BYOZlkCQsWlWuKm9QvzZyM/s200/Picture2.png" width="156" /></a>When I think of the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord into heaven, I think of it as being on a Thursday as we always called it "Ascension Thursday." But most Dioceses have moved it to the Seventh Sunday of Easter so many more Catholics can be present and truly celebrate this great feast.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdEXEb6CHTnMLBKXz9QqnSTMWSSJjszNyaZV4JBpid9TNzkDm3B3wYJkvdRv_7f5jteZOb3x8BpwMkKJhKOhPEiIHjhSARBz-KDQ24G7DOsH20iZU76iwtL64wcVcxdl5D-OWxWc_KmI/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCdEXEb6CHTnMLBKXz9QqnSTMWSSJjszNyaZV4JBpid9TNzkDm3B3wYJkvdRv_7f5jteZOb3x8BpwMkKJhKOhPEiIHjhSARBz-KDQ24G7DOsH20iZU76iwtL64wcVcxdl5D-OWxWc_KmI/s200/Picture1.png" width="160" /></a>I smile when I read the Entrance Antiphon because the Apostles got the same lecture my sister used to give me when I gawk at a new sight: "Men of Galilee, why do you stand there continuing to look up into the sky? Jesus, whom you saw ascending into heaven, will return the same way as you saw Him go up into heaven."<br />
<br />
Jesus' message to the Apostles is "GO." GO throughout the world and tell the good news: that Jesus died to prove his great, unconditional love for us. He rose from the dead with the promise that He will be with you and me until the end of the world. Yes, Jesus is truly living in each one of us as we GO spreading God's love by loving and respecting others as we love and respect ourselves.<br />
<br />
<i>Written by Sister Caroline Clark, D.C.</i><br />
<i></i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-291572314552633502020-05-08T06:00:00.000-04:002020-05-07T15:21:15.040-04:00St. Louise de Marillac<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Shall I start
with disclaimers first?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Who am I to
write about, much less introduce, our Foundress?</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih89Ybo5DyGjwjvtCaKOGyIdhCY0G1S9FsfvCeMl-wz8SOsD-IzoEkXDIS-iwgZ_kwmhbjgoaHGKXfFSJlsgbP55PrRdqjJ_X10L13v-4nTJPvbs6Z_2nPpynYEujSWmtr7byclG4RQC0/s1600/St.+Louise+with+Daughter+and+Children.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="478" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih89Ybo5DyGjwjvtCaKOGyIdhCY0G1S9FsfvCeMl-wz8SOsD-IzoEkXDIS-iwgZ_kwmhbjgoaHGKXfFSJlsgbP55PrRdqjJ_X10L13v-4nTJPvbs6Z_2nPpynYEujSWmtr7byclG4RQC0/s320/St.+Louise+with+Daughter+and+Children.JPG" width="254" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">At first
thought there are so many other historians, musicians, sculptors, writers,
poets and biographers among us that have portrayed her so very well in sundry
ways. (I still hold on to that thought of “Who am I?”!)</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">It is only
after entering the Daughters of Charity that I grew to love this Louse de
Marillac of a mysterious family of origin, of early formative years, of an unknown
extended family and of yearnings to follow her heart’s deepest desires. I could
say “…late have I loved thee” for want of recognizing her during my own early
days in the Daughters of Charity. But then the days and the months and the
years exposed me to these wise women who model Louse de Marillac so very well….
these Daughters of Charity as formators, as Spiritual Directors, as wise women
figures who teach more by example than any words could convey: as Louise
probably did.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Given these
living examples of Louise, I’ve probably learned even more about her from Grant
Writing, Advancement initiatives,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Case
Studies, Project research, Proposal preparations and anything else to further
efforts to support those whom we serve…….. Our Poorest!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">I’ve learned
that Louise could never ignore her innate unyielding call to give herself
totally to God…...the whispers of her heart could not be ignored nor submerged.
Given her own 16<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> century of birth this mystical little girl could
have grown up uneducated, dependent upon her family’s situation, marry, have
children and die. For Louise this could have been her life, but for her “Father’s”
claiming her as his natural daughter but not his legal heir. His status allowed
for her elite schooling among the nobility as she continued to listen to her
heart’s yearnings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Fast forward
to 1635 and Louise is a widow! She meets Vincent de Paul (the rest is history!).
So here’s where the Advancement initiatives come into play (what would Louise
say?). Overwhelmed with orphans to feed, legend has it that Louise made and
sold jam to cover the costs. As needs surfaced, Louise <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">collaborated</i> with others (Friend Raising and Fund Raising!). Legend
also tells of Louise making wine out of untended grape fields (pretty
creative!) as a new sources of income for growing expenses. Louise’s innate
organizational skills with a keen sense of one’s talents were the catalyst in
addressing her day’s challenges…so catalyzing that these skills continue for
our today! And in the midst of all of this, Louise continued to be urged by the
Charity of Christ Crucified in serving: our motto, our tag line for today’s
Daughters of Charity.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">So! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lessons for us from Louise de Marillac for
today………. Can you</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><br /></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Listen
to your heart?<br /><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><br /></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Seek
out good advice?<br /><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><br /></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Use
your God given talents?<br /><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><br /></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Follow
those you serve as they show you what they need?<br /><o:p></o:p></span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><br /></span></span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></i><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Use
your God given talents to make it happen?</span></i><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Listen to your heart?</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif";">Written by Sister Marge Clifford, D.C.</span></i></span>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-35348216428402868742020-03-24T06:43:00.000-04:002020-03-24T12:28:55.325-04:00Feast of the Annunciation & Vows as a Daughter of Charity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6NK82v5NPpRY3rKFuNQIL_FcNh7PTjJHTpkvjykqokfvyl3qFTXvizeBn-OYIUTA7sE-njbupY9CimwX50bkjdd-uivJPwC48RH6iivsIIfKbpBR2RQBAZicYPKINX_HJG3MrCMJWdQ/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk6NK82v5NPpRY3rKFuNQIL_FcNh7PTjJHTpkvjykqokfvyl3qFTXvizeBn-OYIUTA7sE-njbupY9CimwX50bkjdd-uivJPwC48RH6iivsIIfKbpBR2RQBAZicYPKINX_HJG3MrCMJWdQ/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a>The Feast of the Annunciation celebrates the moment in which Jesus became human and entered the world as one of us. It was, at one time, known as the Feast of the Incarnation because it highlights the humanity which Jesus shares with us. In our Vincentian tradition, the incarnation is important as we see the face of God in others, especially people in need.<br />
<br />
Of course, it is also a feast which celebrates Mary as the model of discipleship for us. In the parallel accounts of prophecy to Zechariah and Mary in the first chapter of Luke's gospel, we learn some important elements of what it means to be a good disciple. Zechariah hears the prophecy of the angel about the birth of John and is fearful and troubled. His first question is centered on himself and he asked, "How can I know this?" He has trouble truly hearing the words of the prophecy given to him and is, therefore, struck dumb--perhaps not as a punishment, but an opportunity given to him so that he must listen and take in the gift that God has given him.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkUD3GBxC-txPOp38wBw3vLdxSVqN5-SejfZw0bAH5hIQOGiJ-Ma96reEnyfOgZ60G0DrXxSaKOQuDP0iwkMjglqzRPgi6Wy7xALLGSHQj4I-klWziFM0BcUDsMSkPAqxUKQLbh7tFwlk/s1600/Fra_Angelico_069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkUD3GBxC-txPOp38wBw3vLdxSVqN5-SejfZw0bAH5hIQOGiJ-Ma96reEnyfOgZ60G0DrXxSaKOQuDP0iwkMjglqzRPgi6Wy7xALLGSHQj4I-klWziFM0BcUDsMSkPAqxUKQLbh7tFwlk/s320/Fra_Angelico_069.jpg" width="320" /></a>Mary's response, in contrast, gives us a different view of how to be a disciple. When Mary encounters the angel, she is also troubled, but she listens to the words of the angel. She raises an objection which is really her searching for understanding. She doesn't receive an explanation, but is given an assurance that God will be with her. Her response, however, is her unqualified YES. She, a young woman in a society in which being either of those rendered one powerless, gives a YES which affirms her identity and trust in God. Mary gives this YES because she has been listening to the voice of God and has faith that God will be with her, no matter what happens.<br />
<br />
For Daughters of Charity, this day is a special day because it is the day that we make our vows for another year. We make our life commitment as Daughters of Charity before we ever make vows, but the vows reflect that commitment. Each year, we are graced with the opportunity to reflect upon and renew our commitment to God and to the service of people living in poverty. I am grateful for this time each year to stop and consider how I am living the vows. Each year, it seems a different vow is my focus as I have yet another lesson to learn about how to live each vow better. I take great consolation from being in this long line of women who have been saying these words each year since the time of St. Louise.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Therese Haywood, D.C., Province of Australia</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-25167265527898240692020-03-22T04:38:00.000-04:002020-03-24T12:29:28.084-04:00A Response of LOVE to a call of LOVE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9urEIXI54x2iO9XUk3PH4d9bu_N4twq8Tl2SIsoyEqUXk4iITEIGgcQr2YkQm1IJ_wPk7eAWhPHFKuNPC98jaB7g3AZ1YjS7DCUFeEV7Dho9hfEPblFfH-LnnK2Hz4a8IgIrkS6hNKo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-03-19+at+3.37.10+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9urEIXI54x2iO9XUk3PH4d9bu_N4twq8Tl2SIsoyEqUXk4iITEIGgcQr2YkQm1IJ_wPk7eAWhPHFKuNPC98jaB7g3AZ1YjS7DCUFeEV7Dho9hfEPblFfH-LnnK2Hz4a8IgIrkS6hNKo/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-03-19+at+3.37.10+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Each year on the Feast of the Annunciation, the Daughters of Charity throughout the world renew their vows.<br />
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Mary the Mother of Jesus is our model. Mary was a Servant of Faith. Her YES brought to birth her son, the Son of God, the one who changed the world. This birth offers hope to our world.</div>
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Creating moments of rebirth enables us to see glimpses of God; the God who calls each os us to co-create, to leave our world better than we found it.</div>
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Mary was invited by the angel to be the Mother of God. Her first response was, "How can this be?"</div>
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Many times in our own lives, we are asked or invited to do something and our response might be similar.</div>
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Mary's "Fiat" was holy because it is through her act of submission--her willingness to accept God's plan--that the Son of God makes His entrance into human history. Mary pondered the angel's words in her heart and then responded with her Fiat.</div>
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I saw many glimpses of the willingness to accept God's plan in my own mother's life. Her daily response to the needs of her family and others always came before responding to her own needs.</div>
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I have also seen many glimpses of the willingness to accept God's plan in the Daughters of Charity that I have lived with. These women have been faithful to their call to serve their sisters and brothers in need. This doesn't surprise me as our motto as Daughters is, "The Charity of Jesus Christ urges us."</div>
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Pondering, discerning, and listening are the only ways God can speak to my heart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76F5ZrtL6v3Ohr4oV9FhAsQKh9O_06WRVxIyulhQ19waFYPYTUWgEFb6jrKIqw-5sqxhnkSv_5d2yuzOFj0zqCABVfAiCM1BRriEPEZL2mbCTU0ex30pW7bmoC1Hb1uC2ALfLANha5Jc/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg76F5ZrtL6v3Ohr4oV9FhAsQKh9O_06WRVxIyulhQ19waFYPYTUWgEFb6jrKIqw-5sqxhnkSv_5d2yuzOFj0zqCABVfAiCM1BRriEPEZL2mbCTU0ex30pW7bmoC1Hb1uC2ALfLANha5Jc/s400/Picture1.png" /></a>Mary's openness--our openness--allows the movement of God in our hearts and so we can enter that intimate relationship with the one who calls us to love. An intimacy that invites the God deep within us to do the impossible.</div>
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Our YES opens us up to new possibilities of the movement of God.</div>
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Our YES enables us to reach out and respond to those living in poverty in our world.</div>
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Our YES and our Fiat--our willingness--enables us to be transformed so that God can create something new.</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Teresa Tighe, D.C., Province of Great Britain</i></div>
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Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-12305985846537144632020-02-14T01:37:00.000-05:002020-02-14T01:37:05.018-05:00Prayer: A Pilgrimage of the Heart<i>Material for this blog post was adapted from similar reflections on prayer by Sister Kara Davis, D.C.: a Lenten video found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rq7MwmzVfjs" target="_blank">here</a> and a podcast reflection found <a href="https://hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/7/9/a/79ab39c4d611660e/LIVING_IN_THE_HEART-srk.mp3?c_id=62508143&cs_id=62508143&destination_id=688434&expiration=1581358918&hwt=5f28f9256e32045ed56b2f5e26a06f69" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HPnZju3XBV9xy3Ot4WR5wYxNh2ExMERNy2s8wcd-SJPOJZe3eXRVdFBbQmKx2qXflScxJILGNP4IRg8TeapOUUpjb-IhDHD5nL4DUo4k2xf32yaMIhvJsYgcPu7DnzGmJngv3ToxFsI/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HPnZju3XBV9xy3Ot4WR5wYxNh2ExMERNy2s8wcd-SJPOJZe3eXRVdFBbQmKx2qXflScxJILGNP4IRg8TeapOUUpjb-IhDHD5nL4DUo4k2xf32yaMIhvJsYgcPu7DnzGmJngv3ToxFsI/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a>I recently had someone ask me about prayer. What is prayer and how are you supposed to pray? We know we are supposed to pray, but sometimes prayer is dry. We show up and make time for it, but then aren't really sure what to do. We can bust out some devotional prayers--the Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet--or we can spend sometime contemplating scripture. We can kneel in the church and list off our many petitions, presenting our requests to God, maybe even falling into the temptation of bargaining with God, "Hey God, if you do this, I'll do this."<br />
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We give thanks when a prayer is answered, but do we still show up to prayer when God's response to our request isn't what we expected? We pray for peace, a peace that unites our hearts and minds with Christ. So how do we find that peace? How do we unite ourselves with Christ? Well, I say we need to take a pilgrimage to the heart of God.<br />
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Prayer is a pilgrimage of the heart. It is a journey that continues, deepens, and develops throughout our entire lives. The depths of God's love, God's heart, is described as a bottomless well or the depths of the ocean--a vast destination that we don't actually reach on this side of eternity, but are constantly plunging more deeply into this relationship of love. Our pilgrimage of the heart of Jesus is a journey of becoming our truest selves, living into our identity as God's beloved. The more we come to know God, the more we come to know ourselves.<br />
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I heard it said once that life is a journey from God, back to God. Our pilgrimage to the heart of God is life--how we live and how we love. As we make this pilgrimage to the heart of Jesus, we find our own.<br />
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My favorite definition of prayer is one that a spiritual director shared with me a while back. I found it helpful in entering into meditation and contemplative/centering prayer. It is: "Prayer is resting your head on God's heart and letting God love you." Prayer is the meeting of hearts.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JAhtyjfj-qLkdRQsNc6SsO38S8y39zkb3uYt9xMxX9IcRZUxLK7pc51oLHKxqQvP_ShPN6ceJhSYuE3z9dWW4ZV9opjSLSNHXK2qbxzKIGFIDeSUdr3FuOjQdhIjpsSrhCTCmv-d-C4/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JAhtyjfj-qLkdRQsNc6SsO38S8y39zkb3uYt9xMxX9IcRZUxLK7pc51oLHKxqQvP_ShPN6ceJhSYuE3z9dWW4ZV9opjSLSNHXK2qbxzKIGFIDeSUdr3FuOjQdhIjpsSrhCTCmv-d-C4/s200/Picture2.png" width="195" /></a>I recall the image of the Beloved Disciple in the Gospel of John, leaning back on Jesus' chest during the Last Supper, seeking comfort and understanding in times of confusion. How often do I find myself in prayer seeking consolation in times of anxiety? Lean back against the heart of God. Rest in the heart of God. Be held in the mystery of God's love, which is nothing we can earn or meet, but simply receive. Let God love us and let go of anything that might be holding us back--any sense of unworthiness or the lie of not being good enough. God's mercy is abundant and overflowing, extending into the smallest areas and the hidden parts of ourselves that we carry deep within.<br />
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Rest your head. Be consumed by love. For when the two hears meet, they are filled with the same thoughts and desires. Keep walking that pilgrimage of the heart one day at a time, one step at a time; journeying more deeply into the heart of God.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Kara Davis, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-80068132395803067672020-01-13T08:54:00.000-05:002019-12-31T10:44:21.065-05:00Words Whispered in Our Ears at BaptismSometimes somebody important to us says something to us that we never forget: a parent or family member, a friend, a teacher. At various times and places, the words play back for us and give us insight, confidence, or pause when we are in a particular situation. Perhaps, especially, words that we have from our parents carry this special weight.<br />
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I was thinking of this in terms of Jesus and the experience of His baptism. This is the very beginning of Jesus' public ministry. He is just about to embark on the apostolate that will characterize His life. He has take His place on line with all the others who seek John's baptism. John does not want to baptize Him because he feels unworthy.<br />
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After the baptism, Jesus hears these words:<br />
"You are my beloved Son;<br />
with you, I am well pleased."<br />
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What wonderful words--words with any child would be thrilled to hear from a parent.<br />
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Now, this occurs before Jesus has done anything. He is about to start His life's work and He is affirmed in this powerful way. "You are my beloved Son; I am well pleased with you." Perhaps, this is the point: the Father's love for Jesus is not something that is earned, something that is won or lost, but something that is given freely and permanently and without qualification. Jesus knew that He is loved by the Father, but having it said so clearly and so boldly depends its truth on a human level. Jesus knew that He was loved. Nevertheless, it needed to be said aloud and heard distinctly.<br />
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When Jesus spoke of the Father, He spoke about Him in that deep way which reflected the Father's love for all His children. He is the welcoming parent who wants all His children to come home and be with Him forever.<br />
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What a wonderful and powerful gift it is that the Father gives Jesus on the day of His baptism: the assurance that the Father loved Him and stood by Him. At our baptism, God speaks those same words to each of us: "You are my beloved child. I am pleased with you." We need to hear those words and allow them to guide our lives, just as Jesus did. It makes an enormous amount of difference to know that the Father loves us unconditionally and forever. No matter what we do, God loves us. No matter how far we stray, God stays with us. We do not earn God's love and we can never lose it. It seems so simple to say, but it is the truth. We need to say it and hear it and believe it. It makes all the difference in the world for how we live.<br />
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When we get up in the morning and know that we are loved, the day starts out on the right foot; when we go to bed at night and realize that is was not a great day, we can tell ourselves that we are still loved by God, so how bad could it be?<br />
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The story of the Baptism of Jesus reminds us that truth in His life and what a difference it made. Let us grasp that truth for ourselves. Remember how God whispered to us on the day of our baptism: you are my beloved child, I am pleased with you. We may have forgotten that. Let us pray that our memory be jogged so that we live as and treat one another as God's beloved children. People on whom God's favor rests.<br />
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<i>Written by Father Patrick Griffin. Originally published on <a href="https://famvin.org/en/2019/01/09/a-vincentian-view-baptism-words/" target="_blank">FamVin</a>.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-75632254706063553882020-01-10T16:02:00.000-05:002019-12-31T10:42:30.546-05:00Human Trafficking Awareness Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The month of January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, declared so by President Barack Obama in 2016. In addition to this, January 11 is Human Trafficking Awareness Day. It is extremely important that attention be drawn to this terrible injustice. In order to "take down" this billion-dollar industry, we all must become educated to the ways in which human beings, in every corner of the world, are being exploited.<br />
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The broad term "human trafficking" is used to include forced labor, domestic servitude, organ harvesting, child soldiers, forced marriage, and sexual exploitation. Many times, the victims are "hidden in plain sight" and it takes another person who knows the signs of trafficking to report it.<br />
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Where can you start to make a difference?<br />
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<li><b>Educate yourself</b> by visiting websites of organizations fighting this crime and pass that knowledge along to others! You can start at our <a href="http://www.justfreedom.org/" target="_blank">Office of Migration and Modern Slavery</a> website.</li>
<li><b>Add the confidential, toll free human trafficking hotline number</b> (1-888-373-7888) to your phone in the event that you suspect someone is being trafficked.</li>
<li><b>Make your voice heard! </b>Contact your government representatives. There are laws in place to protect victims, but we need stronger laws that are continually enforced. We need more programs to help those who have been victimized as healing from the trauma they have experienced takes years.</li>
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On January 11, you are urged to wear a blue ribbon to draw attention to this crime. Post a picture of yourself on social media wearing this ribbon and encourage others to do that same.</div>
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The only way to eradicate this terrible injustice is to make our voices heard! Won't you help today???</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Mary Catherine Warehime, D.C.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-24149849238526874252020-01-03T00:27:00.000-05:002019-12-31T17:08:30.872-05:00Story of Mother Seton<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Sp1j0TqiHHr-DytEOwadNXkTbj4cwlhBx9XXsekCd0cJSLMVc1caHJsuz1kiD1jIc43CmE2EED7sS4vd82BijIFH6sjMxWaI2Bvpj2lkQfETm51yHv39IXVlm-G4BR7gmdYpVebg07E/s1600/stained_gl_window-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Sp1j0TqiHHr-DytEOwadNXkTbj4cwlhBx9XXsekCd0cJSLMVc1caHJsuz1kiD1jIc43CmE2EED7sS4vd82BijIFH6sjMxWaI2Bvpj2lkQfETm51yHv39IXVlm-G4BR7gmdYpVebg07E/s320/stained_gl_window-2.jpg" width="214" /></a>A young mother died unexpectedly. Her death left her precious toddler scarred emotionally. A year later, the child's younger sister, barely a toddler, also died. As an adult, Eliza still recalled herself, at four years of age, sitting on the doorstep gazing at the clouds, hoping to see her deceased loved ones in the sky.<br />
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Numbed by pain from early childhood issues, Eliza felt her father's absence keenly when he was abroad for professional study. At times, she wondered if he loved her. As emotional waves surged, confusion mixed with sadness, troubled her adolescent heart. Feeling alienated and alone, Eliza considered taking a drug overdose but she decided not to take laudanum, an opiate derivative. Later, she rejoiced in her choice--not to do the "horrid deed." Hope soon dissipated her melancholy and restored her lively spirit.<br />
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Beguiling once again, Eliza met and fell in love with William Magee Seton. They married and had five children but the mature Eliza lost her beloved husband to tuberculosis. Catholic friends introduced the young widow to the Catholic faith, its liturgical worship, and personal devotions. Catholic beliefs, particularly the Eucharist and Blessed Mother, attracted Eliza. She longed for interior peace and the gift of true faith, which she discerned through reading, study, consolation, and conversations on religious matters. Friends and family argued against her considering Catholicism. The more they dissuaded, the more she felt called to religious conversation as "the earnest desire of my Soul."<br />
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Should she or shouldn't she become Catholic? Her discernment left her in a whirlwind of emotional turmoil. Hers was a heart-wrenching struggle to discover God's plan. Eliza longed for God: "If I am right, O teach my heart still in the right to stay; if I am wrong, thy grace impart to find the better way."<br />
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She sought divine truth: "I seek but God and his church and expect to find my peace in them." When the Church retold the story of the Magi following a star to find the Promised Savior, Elizabeth wrote plaintively: "Alas, where is my star?" In making her profession of faith, Eliza found her inner peace as a Roman Catholic. As foundress of the Sisters of Charity, she encouraged her sisters to: "Meditate on peace before Jesus, the sweet King and Prince of peace--let us desire it, make it a great part of our perfection, a capital point of our vocation of love."<br />
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Points to ponder:<br />
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<li>What is the earnest desire of my soul?</li>
<li>What helps me discern God's will when faced with significant choices?</li>
<li>Where is my star? How does its brilliance touch my heart?</li>
<li>How shall I live my vocation of love?</li>
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<i>Written by Sister Betty Ann McNeil, D.C.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-25326826792184581232019-12-18T01:28:00.000-05:002019-12-18T01:28:07.595-05:00Advent - A Time of WaitingShe wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:7)<br />
No room for you in the city, Jesus<br />
So many doors were tried and closed to you.<br />
So many places did not warm you with welcome.<br />
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There is still a coming.<br />
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There is still a Bethlehem.<br />
It is the city of my heart<br />
With no room to give you welcome.<br />
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It is the manger of my inners self<br />
Where your request is made,<br />
Searching for an entrance<br />
To my poor and empty dwelling.<br />
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Advent is a time of waiting.<br />
I will wait faithfully<br />
For slow recognition<br />
Of the closed doors in my Bethlehem.<br />
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Advent is a time for yearning.<br />
I will keep on longing for you.<br />
I will try to do so patiently.<br />
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Advent is a time of hoping.<br />
I will seek the strong stirring sureness<br />
That it is possible to open doors.<br />
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Advent is a time of coming.<br />
I will pray with all the church:<br />
Come. Come. Come, Lord Jesus.<br />
Welcome into my home of love.<br />
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And Lord, when it is time to say:<br />
This is the Christmas Day,<br />
I pray that you will warmly be welcome<br />
In the Bethlehem of my heart,<br />
Giving birth in my newly opened places.<br />
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<i>From Sister Theresa Sullivan, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-56427486155502221252019-12-17T00:30:00.000-05:002019-12-17T00:30:10.083-05:00Birthday of Pope Francis<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVgnO2wRn6moveRAUJH54y40dX7w1R2UGilGhk3vUziNM4lmesl8cUIE7Cimr64Vix-8jiOUO75R1jVzmGaI_CFSCUylMd20B-EIQdLgHeIJNn5QOHW8qFc-uoGyd1FKeYhyzZ-gFlzM/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOVgnO2wRn6moveRAUJH54y40dX7w1R2UGilGhk3vUziNM4lmesl8cUIE7Cimr64Vix-8jiOUO75R1jVzmGaI_CFSCUylMd20B-EIQdLgHeIJNn5QOHW8qFc-uoGyd1FKeYhyzZ-gFlzM/s200/Picture2.png" width="153" /></a>Today, we celebrate the 83rd birthday of Pope Francis. This is truly "the day the Lord has made...let us rejoice and be glad in it..."<br />
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What will be your gift to him/for him today? Will you...<br />
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<li>Offer your Mass for him?</li>
<li>Say your rosary for him?</li>
<li>Treat our Mother Earth more kindly and gently?</li>
<li>Reach out to those who are poor and in need?</li>
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We invite you to share your ideas with us and with others!</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Regina Hlavac, D.C.</i></div>
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Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-79856922630279453312019-12-15T12:12:00.000-05:002019-12-15T12:12:02.600-05:00Christmas Novena TraditionEach year, in preparation for Christmas, Daughters of Charity sing a special novena (nine day prayer) during our evening prayer time. Each day, the prayer is the same except for the antiphon for the Magnificat. The following video tells you more about this special tradition.<br />
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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RLmxRaAgb4A" width="560"></iframe>
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Below are the audio clips for each day. Just click on the day to listen, pray, and sing along with us!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8eQPcpH_uLnQqiNtuxthCdKHHEEkwWyZYZmX-AeKse021olD5QigY6jzNV6g6_S-LZqc8PtXyBMM8cSyVZKBNEQsXFPjJiXfN4Gvhc5ekurlTMkaRFTjmrFJ9G3EhtjJnPN4rW0p0_E/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-12-11+at+11.12.07+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8eQPcpH_uLnQqiNtuxthCdKHHEEkwWyZYZmX-AeKse021olD5QigY6jzNV6g6_S-LZqc8PtXyBMM8cSyVZKBNEQsXFPjJiXfN4Gvhc5ekurlTMkaRFTjmrFJ9G3EhtjJnPN4rW0p0_E/s320/Screen+Shot+2019-12-11+at+11.12.07+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+5qh8yrk" target="_blank">Day 1 | December 16</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+9xkk6jr" target="_blank">Day 2 | December 17</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+mf9hqf2" target="_blank">Day 3 | December 18</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+xx3x8yk" target="_blank">Day 4 | December 19</a><br />
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<a href="https://dashboard.thechurchapp.org/10024/#/library/media/items/d0c697e1-c8ba-4055-8a2e-7d73b3a711da" target="_blank">Day 5 | December 20</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+6h8nrgs" target="_blank">Day 6 | December 21</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+nn3ff4b" target="_blank">Day 7 | December 22</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+w8wh755" target="_blank">Day 8 | December 23</a><br />
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<a href="https://subsplash.com/daughtersofcharity/lb/mi/+nfmktkc" target="_blank">Day 9 | December 24</a>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-14863155947535105782019-12-12T01:40:00.000-05:002019-12-11T13:34:55.491-05:00"Am I not here, I who am your Mother?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_EdMioaMaOlprMX5yyic_BDXwJUh_r2hp1UkL66ZKRjCgfrkQ40rx7W5J5XThRojhO9asEUYPnSsrejYHTgUBVpAm-OyK5R6YMrvef_0LKafmkWLoqTJ1c1NVoVyEjdM77JhZEN_0OE/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_EdMioaMaOlprMX5yyic_BDXwJUh_r2hp1UkL66ZKRjCgfrkQ40rx7W5J5XThRojhO9asEUYPnSsrejYHTgUBVpAm-OyK5R6YMrvef_0LKafmkWLoqTJ1c1NVoVyEjdM77JhZEN_0OE/s320/Picture1.png" width="260" /></a></div>
Today we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. I find the story of these apparitions the most humble and down to earth. The narration says that, on December 9, 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to a native Mexican peasant called Juan Diego on the mountain of Tepeyac while he was on his way to church. She appeared to him four times and once to his sick uncle. These apparitions took place in a time of oppression for the Indians. They were being rejected by the conquerors of that time. All of their beliefs of the ancient gods had been destroyed and Christianity was imposed.<br />
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Mary appeared very simply and with the traits of a native Mexican of the time. She even spoke to him in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec empire. It presents Mary in her true identity, a servant and close to those suffering and in need. The way she spoke to him was sweet, kind, and consoling. She would say, "Little Juan, the smallest of my sons...." Juan also replied to her with the same confidence. She identified herself as the Virgin Mary, the Mother of the true God. She gave Juan Diego a mission to tell the bishop to build a church where she can show her love, compassion, assistance, and protection to the people of that country and to all that would invoke and trust in her.<br />
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Juan Diego had a sick uncle who was close to death. He was on his way to get a priest when the Virgin Mary stopped him again and reminded Juan Diego of his mission. She said, "Don't worry about your uncle. <b>Am I not here, I who am your Mother?</b>" At that time, she also appeared to his uncle and healed him. Juan Diego asked the Virgin Mary for a sign to take to the bishop. She told him to cut roses from the Tepeyac and take them to him. It was not the season for roses but Juan Diego obeyed and found roses as she had said. When he went to the bishop and opened his cloak, the image of Our Lady had been miraculously engraved on it.<br />
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The apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe are prophetic, mystical, and missionary. <b>Prophetic</b> because they announce a new culture, the culture of encounter. A poor Indian who is sent out to the hierarchy of the church, a bishop, to tell him that he saw the Virgin Mary. It is not about what divides us, but of what brings us together. <b>Mystical</b> because it reveals to us a God that is clearly with and for the poor and the oppressed. We can be blind and not see him where he truly wants to manifest himself. <b>Missionary</b> because it took Juan Diego and it takes us out of ourselves to carry out a mission in the way God wants it. Mary teaches us to trust in her and, ultimately, in God.<br />
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Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us and those who are poor and oppressed.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Migdalia Flores, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-86107571698515839202019-11-29T05:12:00.000-05:002019-11-14T12:44:48.028-05:00Foundation of the Little Company"Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards." Soren Kierkegaard<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoMHb0M-g5AyhA0Okol-eRsraKMXng1A1lzSUBusPnIESVdQM36Im-j-6pvk1VbUSsM0V7dVaSnea09N0Xx2mhrGQzV4QmweH80BnSeqwcGJmTcaXN6SnLwnrqlc6rcyS_QS-I0il9WI/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="668" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoMHb0M-g5AyhA0Okol-eRsraKMXng1A1lzSUBusPnIESVdQM36Im-j-6pvk1VbUSsM0V7dVaSnea09N0Xx2mhrGQzV4QmweH80BnSeqwcGJmTcaXN6SnLwnrqlc6rcyS_QS-I0il9WI/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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We sometimes harbor the illusion that the saints "had everything figured out" in their lives as though they possessed some kind of heavenly GPS plotting their journey of life from its beginning to its final destination. Actually, the saints were often as unsure as the rest of us. Many of them needed to pray for God's guidance each day and waited for Him to reveal His will one step at a time. This was certainly the case for St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac, who founded the Daughters of Charity on November 29, 1633.</div>
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After St. Vincent delivered an inspiring sermon about the desperate need of a poor family in his parish at Clichy in 1617, parishioners flocked to the home to see how they could help. This experience led St. Vincent to the then-revolutionary idea of organizing charitable efforts for the poor. He gathered influential women together in groups which he called Confraternities of Charity (now known as Ladies of Charity) and asked St. Louise to visit, mentor, and oversee their efforts.</div>
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As time passed, the women, who were unaccustomed to menial tasks, began sending their servants instead of going themselves into the homes of the poor. St. Vincent and St. Louise recognized that another approach was needed. The solution came with the appearance of a simple peasant girl, Marguerite Nasseau. She, with her companions, was very willing to carry out the necessary, humble tasks. St. Louise realized that these young women needed support and training. In 1633, she welcomed them into her home. This was a shocking departure from the social norms of the day.</div>
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Through their faithful following of the Lord's guidance step-by-step, St. Vincent and St. Louise became the founders of a new type of religious community for women where the sisters were free to venture outside of the walls of a convent to minister directly to those in need.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZiDHd2hprtmvevu9po8a_fH5HxCOjCGBErOZWMSxkd9fXgmCH0HhP-GX29RZMzRSbp7v90wDYC3glVW7EdVsKZ3VBqStJaNlbfEwnyn017WDK5jMZvAsnIKpFDFfsICSaX28RcKxL5Os/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="974" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZiDHd2hprtmvevu9po8a_fH5HxCOjCGBErOZWMSxkd9fXgmCH0HhP-GX29RZMzRSbp7v90wDYC3glVW7EdVsKZ3VBqStJaNlbfEwnyn017WDK5jMZvAsnIKpFDFfsICSaX28RcKxL5Os/s320/Picture2.png" width="320" /></a>Ten years later, St. Vincent would say to the Daughters gathered for his conference: "Who would ever have thought that there would be Daughters of Charity? ... I did not think of it ... God thought of it for you," (<i>Conferences to the Daughters of Charity</i>, June 14, 1643). In 1654, he elaborated further: "Now, dear Sisters, the fact is that no one on earth can say, 'I did that.' Mademoiselle [Louise] can't say it, neither can M. Portail, no anyone else. No, Sisters, no one can say, 'I'm the one who did this work,'" (<i>Conferences to the Daughters of Charity, </i>May 25, 1654).</div>
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Both St. Vincent and St. Louise recognized the presence of God in the events and circumstances with which they were faced and counted on Him to guide them step-by-step along the right path to accomplish His will. He continues to guide us in the same way, one step at a time.</div>
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Are you wondering about God's plans for your future? Trust Him to show you the path He wants for you, one step at a time.</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Chris Maggi, D.C.</i></div>
Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-47504853639169540752019-11-28T06:59:00.000-05:002019-11-14T12:45:44.718-05:00Feast of St. Catherine LaboureCatherine Laboure was born May 2, 1806 in the town of Fain-les-Moutiers in Burgundy, France. She was the eighth child of a devout couple, Pierre and Madeleine Laboure.<br />
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When Catherine was nine years old, her mother died. She was brokenhearted and she went to the kitchen, took a small statue of our Lady, and said: "From now on, YOU will be my Mother."<br />
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The eldest of the Laboure children, Marie-Louise, taught Catherine and her young sister, Tonine, how to care for the household chores. Before too long, the girls were able to assume these responsibilities. So, when Marie-Louise announced she was going to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a Daughter of Charity, Catherine and Tonine were ready to take care of the house.<br />
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Catherine was a devout child and would often walk four miles to attend mass in the church there. When Catherine was 12, she made her First Communion in that church where she had been attending daily mass.<br />
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Catherine wanted to follow in Marie-Louise's footsteps and become a Daughter of Charity. She knew she had to be able to read and write and she had not been able to attend school as a child. When she was 18, she asked her father is she could go to Chatillon to live with her cousin who had a finishing school. There, she learned to read and write.<br />
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Catherine began her postulancy with the Daughters of Charity in Chatillon when she was 24. Three months later, she went to Paris to become a seminary sister. In her daily life, there was nothing to distinguish Catherine from the other young sisters.<br />
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From the time that Catherine was young, she had a great love and devotion for our Blessed Mother. In fact, she had a great desire to SEE her and often prayed for this. On July 18, the novice directress spoke about St. Vincent de Paul's devotion to the Blessed Virgin. That evening, when Catherine went to bed, she had a feeling she would see Mary that night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sRg5vW9PrCs6JNQvbNgUNyR7bjN9e5psUfl3y_iSG4aTR6UEXu7GWBmjh9FmV9ueRAlBPWqpMN-Vg8oefSo8J2gAwlIH2g1mzijSKtvLZmmSPhp8LdLHEp29D-kwckJXw6J9IREdwNQ/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sRg5vW9PrCs6JNQvbNgUNyR7bjN9e5psUfl3y_iSG4aTR6UEXu7GWBmjh9FmV9ueRAlBPWqpMN-Vg8oefSo8J2gAwlIH2g1mzijSKtvLZmmSPhp8LdLHEp29D-kwckJXw6J9IREdwNQ/s320/Picture1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Around 11:30 that night, Catherine was awakened by a small child who told her to get up and get dressed as the Blessed Mother was waiting for her in the chapel. When she arrived there, she noticed it was all lit up. as it was for midnight mass. Before long, the Blessed Mother appeared and sat in the chair which was usually used by the director. Catherine knelt and placed her hands on the Blessed Mother's lap. They spoke for about two hours, during which the Blessed Mother told Catherine that God wanted to give her a "mission."<br />
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On November 27, Catherine was in the chapel with the sisters for evening prayer. Suddenly, Catherine saw the Blessed Mother. This is the simple account given by Catherine:<br />
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"She held an orb in her hands representing the earthly globe... Her face was utterly beautiful... And suddenly, I saw rings on her fingers covered with precious stones, one more beautiful than the other...At that moment, an oval frame formed around the Holy Virgin and on it were the words in gold letters 'O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.' Then, I heard a voice saying to me 'Have a medal struck on this model; everyone who wears it will receive great graces; the graces will be inexhaustible for all those who wear it with confidence.' The picture suddenly turned and I saw the reverse of the medal with the letter M surmounted by a cross and, below it, two hearts, one encircled with a crown of thorns and the other pierced with a sword."<br />
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Sister Catherine, after receiving her habit, was sent to a hospice in Enghein. There, she cared for retired servants of the royal houses of Orleans. She spent 50 years caring for these retired men, treating them kindly but was firm with them when it was necessary.<br />
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In November of 1876, Sister Catherine's health declined. She was no longer able to leave her room. She knew she would not see the new year and asked to receive the Sacrament of the Sick. On evening of December 31, Sister Catherine died quietly. Her face was radiant!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpSPNUW5nzAQywwojlmQWXOU7knBZtd3uakxwbFoX5WFAdyOe2YVRTPXElwoizzJu2AreEgatUjAmhFkvJ_Twewz8ksFv09javd0-GGlvGBqRmOy4AiQ-Lu46IOB7eMjlVz8gruN193U/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpSPNUW5nzAQywwojlmQWXOU7knBZtd3uakxwbFoX5WFAdyOe2YVRTPXElwoizzJu2AreEgatUjAmhFkvJ_Twewz8ksFv09javd0-GGlvGBqRmOy4AiQ-Lu46IOB7eMjlVz8gruN193U/s320/Picture2.png" width="203" /></a>Let us pray the Prayer of St. Catherine Laboure:<br />
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Whenever I go to the Chapel,<br />
I put myself in the presence of our good Lord, and I say to Him,<br />
"Lord, I am here.<br />
Tell me what You would have me do."<br />
If He gives me some task,<br />
I am content and I thank Him.<br />
If He gives me nothing,<br />
I still thank Him<br />
Since I do not deserve to receive anything more than that.<br />
And then, I tell God<br />
Everything that is in my heart.<br />
I tell Him about my pains and my joys,<br />
And then I listen.<br />
If you listen, God will also speak to you,<br />
For with the good Lord, you have to both speak and listen.<br />
God always speaks to you when you approach Him plainly and simply.<br />
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Let us allow God to speak to us in this way! Happy Feast of St. Catherine Laboure!<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Camille Cuadra, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-52707889206360527182019-11-27T02:53:00.000-05:002019-11-14T12:47:34.716-05:00Second Apparition of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaTNjM1_xc1pFKsJF6xPOQIaP-10p7Jax5DkyEHB2AwaMeHerjDijAjbl50MDtwpBdq0EiAbGSt_kq0ttGI9caQQVSnCCxDjNSt_IdEVVO90cYwwmUNWGaSmWwFcS_A7jVpN-zgzKTQw/s1600/Chapel+time+of+St.+Catherine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="600" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzaTNjM1_xc1pFKsJF6xPOQIaP-10p7Jax5DkyEHB2AwaMeHerjDijAjbl50MDtwpBdq0EiAbGSt_kq0ttGI9caQQVSnCCxDjNSt_IdEVVO90cYwwmUNWGaSmWwFcS_A7jVpN-zgzKTQw/s320/Chapel+time+of+St.+Catherine.jpg" width="320" /></a>Today, November 27, is the Feast of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. It was on this day in 1830 that the Blessed Mother appeared to St. Catherine Laboure in the Motherhouse Chapel of the Daughters of Charity in Paris, France. Catherine was a seminary sister at the time. During this apparition, Mary asked Catherine to "have a medal struck after this model. All who wear it will receive great graces: they shall wear it around their neck. Great graces will abound for those who wear it with confidence."<br />
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The symbols on the medal summarize the mysteries of the Christian faith. The front side of the medal pictures Mary with rays of light coming down from her hands. She is standing on half of the globe with her foot crushing a serpent. She told Catherine, "These rays are a symbol of the graces that I pour on those who ask of them of me." In the oval surrounding the image is the prayer, "O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you." On the reverse side of the medal is the letter M surmounted on a cross and below it, a heart of Jesus with a crown of thorns and the heart of Mary pierced by a sword. Around the images are 12 stars.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFqMJWpJon3ik2wxloZlmsI5xutVVbgTS5qV7mkyWeGtDBy6AfUQW8r6NvfuRwqxUECA4Ph_E0_qHLsLIjjO7wyjro6ofTSLrR5x-9bsLIOPX6Tq3Eagy6O61YIIdTXyl98HP0h-XokA/s1600/Miraculous+Medal0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1178" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFqMJWpJon3ik2wxloZlmsI5xutVVbgTS5qV7mkyWeGtDBy6AfUQW8r6NvfuRwqxUECA4Ph_E0_qHLsLIjjO7wyjro6ofTSLrR5x-9bsLIOPX6Tq3Eagy6O61YIIdTXyl98HP0h-XokA/s320/Miraculous+Medal0001.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Catherine shared with her spiritual director, Father Aladel, Mary's request to have the medal made. It took two years before he was convinced of the apparition. He then asked and received permission from the Archbishop of Paris to have the medal made.<br />
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The use of the medal spread quickly and it became known as the Miraculous Medal as many people gave testimony to being healed and hardened hearts had been converted. In 1836, the Holy See approved the medal and its supernatural origin. It is estimated that over 1 billion medals were distributed by the time of St. Catherine's death.<br />
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Do I take advantage of the graces Jesus offers me through the intercession of His Mother? How is God calling me to conversion? How do I express my faith and share it with those in my family and those with whom I am in contact during the day? Do I pray through Mary's intercession for the graces I need and for the world? Do I follow St. Catherine's commitment to prayer, her perseverance in times when she doubted, her comment to the services of others, and her confidence in the Blessed Mother and her Son?<br />
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O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Mary Shea, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-30284071207258401512019-10-31T04:49:00.000-04:002019-10-31T04:49:08.806-04:00Halloween - All Saints' Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZE-t96Gqa27enk0twNlm9fSQmi6_wgFMH2yAw2Qnyiqd0bv39J9_bhxfGSBKoAlTI-v-257R75fbOQf1y_wyVzTX5p-EgVTqXN_-dJWdjwsaC-dakZn6Zx8WELDGC0Q4EwxRyrNz22A/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZE-t96Gqa27enk0twNlm9fSQmi6_wgFMH2yAw2Qnyiqd0bv39J9_bhxfGSBKoAlTI-v-257R75fbOQf1y_wyVzTX5p-EgVTqXN_-dJWdjwsaC-dakZn6Zx8WELDGC0Q4EwxRyrNz22A/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></a>More than 2500 years ago, the Celts celebrated their new year, the end of the harvests, and the arrival of winter all on October 31. This festive ceremony, in honor of the deity Samain (god of death), allowed communication with the spirits of the dead. That day, the doors between the world of the living and the world of the dead were opened. According to legend, that night, the ghosts of the dead visited the living.<br />
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Halloween is, above all, a pretext to "party" and forget the long fall evenings, often rainy and gloomy. All Saints' Day is also a celebration, but much more meditative. The atmosphere surrounding each November 1 - and the commemoration of the dead the next day - contributes to giving All Saints' Day a particular character, one which touches the relationship of each individual to death while ensuring more of a social function of cohesion around the memory of the "dear departed."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1THeOyIh1qoLLStupakvBP-2vfAocvoXK4jM3IxLVDE0bWbrvfPtve9-6LGfsncSnProtxQG98l-6HxezdTipcdsPPKKilYDY5dqpBBHJtxhzjkVqc4R8UhTaYFHhXuQon3Izi38UqE/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1THeOyIh1qoLLStupakvBP-2vfAocvoXK4jM3IxLVDE0bWbrvfPtve9-6LGfsncSnProtxQG98l-6HxezdTipcdsPPKKilYDY5dqpBBHJtxhzjkVqc4R8UhTaYFHhXuQon3Izi38UqE/s320/Picture2.png" width="227" /></a>This celebration is also an opportunity to remember that all people are called to holiness, by different paths though those paths may sometimes be surprising or unexpected.<br />
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Holiness is not reserved for the elite. It concerns all who choose to put their steps in those of Christ. The first merit of this All Saints' Day is to help us to fight against a rather subtle, but radical temptation which threatens the Christian life permanently. It is that of seeing in each saint, a life so extraordinary and marvelous that is is inaccessible. Jesus is the one who saves us, the one who transforms us, the one who wants us to become like Him.<br />
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All Saints' Day is a feast of communion with the saints and with a God of Love in emphasizing the hope of the resurrection and the joy of those who put the Beatitudes at the center of their lives. All Saints' Day focuses on Christ, the conqueror of death. It is a way to signify that we are all called to holiness and, thus, invited to put our steps in those of Christ.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Michelle Loisel, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-83743746770542924012019-10-18T01:02:00.000-04:002019-10-18T01:02:02.090-04:00St. Luke: A Man Compelled and Inspired<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-U0Alhlf4TmYEHZn47vJmjxZ_Id4R7dy0VlV_GqtMqtD_a2h84MMobYClsUJHZYu04qjlkGNtuPZBuXmA7F3nJfxBzTYD07nohS7zpLoiN3JvhNUrtWBpt8YhytYYZoS88w8wF4jBHTA/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-U0Alhlf4TmYEHZn47vJmjxZ_Id4R7dy0VlV_GqtMqtD_a2h84MMobYClsUJHZYu04qjlkGNtuPZBuXmA7F3nJfxBzTYD07nohS7zpLoiN3JvhNUrtWBpt8YhytYYZoS88w8wF4jBHTA/s320/Picture1.png" width="248" /></a></div>
Today, October 18, we celebrate the feast day of St. Luke, evangelist and author of the Acts of the Apostles. Luke's two works comprise almost a quarter of the New Testament.<div>
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A physician from Antioch, Luke encountered Jesus' disciples while caring for the physical needs of the community. The Good News so astounded Luke that he became their frequent companion. St. Paul later referred to him as a "fellow worker." While the chosen twelve were of Jewish heritage, Luke was probably a Gentile, as indicated from his familiarity with the Greek language. Christians have insight into the first 30 years of the church because St. Luke was a faithful recorder of that critical time.<div>
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When I was a child, I always loved to hear about the early life of Jesus, especially about His birth. I didn't realize that what I was learning could only be found in Luke's Gospel. Since then, I have continued to be drawn to his Gospel. Some of the other passages found only in Luke have been essential to my personal and faith development, including the stories of The Good Samaritan, The Ten Lepers, The Prodigal Son, and the Parable of the Persistent Widow. From these passages, I have learned about compassion, forgiveness, gratitude, and trust, all of which are so necessary if you intend to be a disciple of Jesus.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNukX_5ucjkP-mIKAFhwn2OnW4V_dL3RAiSqsLc61GFnJ2s6-6itJvKbQ3Fk_tn34_bSUvS8slVX9qRTXQ5gfgEDfwR7uFJT8X2fSUQF4Y9izOmBlqn8jZRyOFQwMsFIv2RhzKz_aEi0/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTNukX_5ucjkP-mIKAFhwn2OnW4V_dL3RAiSqsLc61GFnJ2s6-6itJvKbQ3Fk_tn34_bSUvS8slVX9qRTXQ5gfgEDfwR7uFJT8X2fSUQF4Y9izOmBlqn8jZRyOFQwMsFIv2RhzKz_aEi0/s200/Picture2.png" width="128" /></a>St. Luke gathered vital information for his works. This information came from written sources, from talking with the disciples, from eyewitnesses, and from his own experiences of the times. Saints Peter, Paul, and Philip were major sources for him. It is evident that St. Luke allowed the Holy Spirit to be his inspiration as he composed the texts that would one day be accepted into the canon of the Bible.</div>
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I doubt that St. Luke realized the impact that his written contributions would have on all of Christianity. Two thousand years later, I am grateful for this man of faith. I hope that I will allow the Holy Spirit to guide me so that I, too, may inspire others to discipleship. Is the Holy Spirit calling you to share your faith?</div>
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<i>Written by Sister Susan Pugh, D.C.</i></div>
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Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2930589954519271906.post-65536239065972167162019-10-17T09:03:00.003-04:002019-10-17T09:03:48.297-04:00International Day for the Eradication of Poverty<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9eNaiVtqWxKz24ICFJLsfwswoX4d1eBBqfKMnjzapRQzB2Nx7w-AFgGyM3_y1BdBzDHdet9hdQQQ-IDdCca-Nl2hhGntGhjO6q2_UrV0rj_GOoerOAcXAaKsEYr-_xliYnrJSenxPHz0/s1600/begging-1683496_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9eNaiVtqWxKz24ICFJLsfwswoX4d1eBBqfKMnjzapRQzB2Nx7w-AFgGyM3_y1BdBzDHdet9hdQQQ-IDdCca-Nl2hhGntGhjO6q2_UrV0rj_GOoerOAcXAaKsEYr-_xliYnrJSenxPHz0/s320/begging-1683496_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a>When I was asked to write this blog for October 17, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, I gasped. WOW! How will that happen? Didn't Jesus say, "The Poor you will have with you always?" The poverty I see in East St. Louis alone doesn't look as it it will end any time soon.<br />
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I have pondered this concept of no more poverty for days now. I have talked to many people who all gave me their thoughts. The following is where I've arrived.<br />
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The eradication of poverty is not going to be solved by fundraisers; it is not a money issue. Rather, it is a justice issue. An issue that is going to take work on the part of all of us. We read from the prophet Habbakuk, "Then the Lord answered me and said: 'Write down the vision clearly...for the vision still have its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint.'"<br />
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And so, I set to writing at least part of my vision. My vision includes adequate housing for all people. especially those in East St. Louis with whom I work daily. My vision includes the children having enough food and a quality education. My vision includes mothers who can stop working that, whenever their sons leave the house, that it might be the last time they see them alive. My vision includes the people in Sub-Saharan Africa, the poorest of the poor, with all that they need to live a full life.<br />
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I think the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is a very, very lofty goal. Habakkuk continues with the Lord's words, "If it delays, wait for it, for it will surely come. It will not be late." It is attainable.<br />
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We must remember, though, that while we wait, we work toward that end.<br />
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<i>Written by Sister Margaret Mary Scally, D.C.</i>Daughters of Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07984397953049802148noreply@blogger.com0