“Courageous” a film that delves into fatherhood

“Courageous” a film that delves into fatherhood

Commentary by Loci B. Lenar

I was invited to see a screening of Courageous by Tim Lilley, Director of Communications, Maximus Group, GA.

I gladly accepted the invitation and saw the pre-release of Courageous which was held on April 14 at Clifton Commons 16, Route 3, Clifton, NJ.

The movie theater was nearly filled to capacity for the viewing of the film and met my expectations for promoting family values based on biblical principals. From my observation, the enthusiasm of those that attended the viewing of the film is a wonderful sign that the movie should find interest with a general audience.

The central focus of the film is on fatherhood and explores the relationships between some law enforcement officers and their families.

Other issues explored in the film are about integrity, and the consequences of actions when failing to live up to those standards.

I recommend seeing Courageous which opens in theaters on September 30th.

***

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com :

From the creators of the movie “Fireproof,” comes a new film on the virtues of fatherhood. The film “Courageous” is the story of four men and the choices they make in their lives to become better fathers.

By becoming more involved in the lives of their children and being better husbands, the men learn more about themselves.

It teaches about morals and humanity with some humor mixed in.

Many of the actors also starred in “Fireproof” and belong to the Sherwood Baptist Church in Georgia.

“Courageous” has something for all ages and can be enjoyed by the entire family.

New Book Series to Feature the Christian Art of Stephen B. Whatley

The Glory of Christ
Painting by Stephen B. Whatley


New Book Series to Feature the Christian Art of Stephen B Whatley in 2011 - Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Editors at SPCK (Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge) have commissioned to publish four of expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley's Christian paintings on the covers of a new series of books, 'Meeting Jesus' by best-selling US author Marcus J. Borg, whose works have been published in 9 languages.

The painting, The Glory of Christ (detail of picture shown above) will be the cover for the first book in the series, 'Meeting Jesus' which is due for publication in February 2011.

To see the full image as it will be appear on the cover, please click on the following link:
www.flickr.com/photos/stephenbwhatley/2357252831/

SPCK has also published Stephen B. Whatley's iconic portrait of Christ: 'Jesus: Feast Day of the Divine Mercy' (painted in 2003).  The painting is on the cover of The Historical Jesus: Five Views.  The book was published in February 2010.  The Christian book publisher is located in London.

The Glory of Christ- Easter Day 2008
Oil on canvas
30 x 24in/76 x 61cm

More about the artist: Stephen B. Whatley

Copyright 2010 Stephen B. Whatley

Corpus Christi Church: A Display of Colorful Light



Light of Corpus Christi - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

While driving through Chatham Township, NJ, I experienced what could be described as a spiritual invitation by Our Lord Jesus to visit Corpus Christi Catholic Church. As I entered the church, my eyes were beholding a rear and beautiful display of light shining through the stained glass windows. The exhibition of colorful light can be seen throughout the church. Sunlight is creating beautiful colors as it shines through the stained glass and reflects on the church floor, the plants, and pews. 

In the center of the church there is a large cross depicting the Crucifixion of Jesus.



Crucifixion - Photo by Loci B. Lenar



Corpus Christi Church Pews - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

I also photographed a series of images thoughout the church which are part of the Corpus Christi Church set on Flickr.com.

Corpus Christi 8 - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Corpus Christi 10 - Photo by Loci B. Lenar



Window with Angel - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

St. Joseph - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Corpus Christi Church - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

If you decide to visit the church, it's located on 234 Southern Boulevard in Chatham, New Jersey. The town is located in Morris County.

Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Ray Hayworth: Cancer Vanishes with Prayer

Ray Hayworth: Cancer Cast Out - Christian Broadcasting Network

By Dory Nissen and Aaron Little

CBN.com – Ray and Billie Hayworth are pretty happy with where they are in life. Their kids are grown and gone. They’ve been married over 46 years and still consider themselves best friends. But their lives were altered dramatically when Ray found a golf ball size lump on his neck. At first, he saw no reason for concern.

"That first day, even for the first week, I really had no thought of what the results would be," Ray said. "I wasn’t worried about it. There was no pain. So if there is no pain, there is no worry.”

Billie was immediately alarmed.

“I kept noticing him do this [feeling his neck],” Billie said. “And I said, ‘why do you keep doing that?’ And then he said, ‘well look at this. I’ve got this knot on my neck.’ I thought it was cancer instantly, immediately. And I said, ‘oh, honey. This isn’t good; I don’t think this is good.’”

"My wife caused me to realize the severity of it and the importance of getting some answers," Ray said.

Ray’s doctor called with the results of the biopsy. Billie answered the phone.

"And I said, 'please tell me, is it cancer?' And she said, 'yes it is cancer,'" Billie said.

Ray had not one, but two types of cancer: carcinoma and melanoma.

"Our worlds actually stopped," Ray said. "Probably the lowest part of my life is when the doctor said, ‘you have cancer.’ Your heart goes to the bottom at that point.”

"At night, I would lay my hands on his neck and he’d be sleeping away," Billie said. "And I would say, 'Satan, how dare you! How dare you come against us like this! Greater is He, God, who is in us!' And I would just yell out, 'I command you in the name of Jesus, you get off; you get off of his neck!"

Friends and family started praying.

"That really meant the world," Ray said. "It lightens your load. You don’t feel like you are carrying it yourself and that elates me."

The lump went completely away! A trip to the doctor confirmed the cancer was completely gone.

"The doctor walked in with a big smile on her face and immediately relieved our fears," Billie said. "She looked at Ray and said, 'I don’t know what you did, but whatever you did, don’t stop. Keep doing it. And he just raised his hands and said, 'thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus.' I looked at her and I said, 'Doctor, we just prayed and God healed him.'"

"I was elated when the doctor said there was no cancer," Ray recalled. "None of the scans showed it; there was no evidence of any cancer in my body. I was very happy for that and told her that. For her sake and for medical science sake, I went back and took another MRI and it was negative also."

Ray has had no sign of cancer for three years. He says the Lord gave him a scripture that signifies God’s amazing power.

“Be still and know that I am God. That’s my theme for the rest of my life," Ray said, “to know that God is still there."

Mother Teresa of Calcutta - Cartoon for Children.

Gloria.tv: Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Cartoon for Children.

The cartoon depicts the life of Mother Teresa and runs for about 24 minutes.  Children will enjoy the video!

Lenar to share Personal Testimony regarding God's Spiritual Gifts on Radio Maria



Signs and Wonders - Photograph by Loci B. Lenar


Lenar to share Personal Testimony regarding God's spiritual gifts on Radio Maria - Prwire - Catholic Online

Logo Courtesy of Radio Maria

Denville, NJ (September 17, 2010) - Kathie Duggan, host of Radio Maria has invited Loci B. Lenar as a guest to share his personal testimony on the topic of signs and wonders on her Catholic radio show, Sacred Treasures.

Lenar's conversion began in1990 and was followed by several spiritual events. As a result of the occurrences, Lenar searched for a spiritual advisor and later connected with Father Richard Tartaglia of St. Mary's Church. Fr. Tartaglia is Lenar's spiritual advisor for more than fifteen years. Lenar is also a parishioner of Saint Mary's. Father Martin Glynn is head pastor at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, which is located on the corner of Route 46 and Myers Avenue in Denville, New Jersey.

Lenar will discuss the spiritual presence of angels including the events leading up to a sign of a cross which appears annually on his property in Mine Hill, New Jersey. Lenar will share his story of being healed of several medical conditions with prayer and through the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.

Hear Lenar's remarkable account of witnessing the Miracle of the Sun and his life changing spiritual encounter with Jesus.

Listen in and take note of Lenar's interesting discernment of God's calling for the church to move forward with Christian unity.

Learn more about Lenar's perspective on God's plan for evangelizing the world by tuning into Radio Maria on Monday, September 27, 2010. Radio Maria is an instrument for spreading faith related news pertaining to Catholicism and is a tool for evangelization and conversion.

Regardless of your geographical location, listeners can connect and hear Sacred Treasures by visiting Radio Maria's website at http://radiomaria.us/. The show is broadcasted weekly on Monday's between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm (EST).

Some of Lenar's testimony can be read by visiting his site at http://www.christian-miracles.com/. The website was created and launched in 2008 as a gathering place for all Christians and Catholics to renew their religious faith by reading inspirational news and using daily devotional prayers. With increased reports of the miraculous, Lenar embarked on broadcasting events in order to bring public awareness to signs and wonders arising from Jesus Christ.

Visitors to the website can also post prayer requests at the following link:
http://www.christian-miracles.com/apps/prayers/

Lenar's blog: Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith, also provides updated news connected to Christianity and Catholicism with biblical insight. Keep informed by visiting the site at http://lenarpoetry.blogspot.com/.

Radio Maria Stations

Louisiana
580 AM - Alexandria
1360 AM - New Iberia
89.7 FM - Natchitoches
91.1 FM - Lake Charles

Mississippi
88.1 FM - D'Iberville

Ohio
1600 AM - Springfield
88.7 FM - Anna

Pennsylvania
88.1 FM - Hollidaysburg

Texas
1250 AM - Port Arthur

Wisconsin
91.3 FM - Peshtigo

***

Contact Loci B. Lenar: Christian-Miracles.com

Contact Radio Maria: http://radiomaria.us/contact/

Woman Claims Cancer Cured By Prayer

 

Woman Claims Cancer Cured By Miracle

Archdiocese Of St. Louis Is Investigating And Is Sending Its Findings To The Vatican.

The following story appeared on KPLR11.com:

ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI-FOX2Now.com) - Was a cancer recovery a miracle? The St. Louis Catholic Archdiocese thinks so. They say a St. Louis woman's cancer has vanished because of her prayers to a priest who's now on the verge of becoming a saint. They've asked the Vatican to certify her case miracle.

There are some things medical science can't explain. Rachel Lozano's cure is one of them. Rachel Lozano was first diagnosed with a rare form of cancer when she was fifteen. By the year 2000 it looked hopeless. On a church trip that year to the Vatican for a ceremony honoring Father William Chaminade. she prayed that Father William Chaminade to heal her.

Her prayers continued. So did the cancer. Finally, she was given weeks to live. When surgeons operated they found a dead tumor. Six years later Lozano remains cancer-free. After an investigation the St. Louis Archdiocese concluded it was the prayers and Chaminnade that cured the cancer. If the Vatican agrees chances are good that Chaminade, a French priest and founder of the Marianist order could become a saint.

Saints, Prophecies, and Other Miracles to be Discussed on CatholicTV Talk Show

Photo of Stained Glass Window by Loci B. Lenar

Levitating Saints, Prophecies, and Other Miracles To Be Discussed on CatholicTV Talk Show - Prwire - Catholic Online

The following excerpt about the upcoming TV show can be found on Catholic Online:

WATERTOWN, MA - Levitating Saints, Prophecies, and Other Miracles To Be Discussed on CatholicTV Talk Show

On June 22nd, 2010, miracles related to the Catholic faith will be discussed on the live CatholicTV talk show “This is the Day”.

According to a recent study by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life , 79 percent of Americans believe in miracles.

According to Catholic author Elizabeth Ficocelli, “in all times and places [God] has exercised his power on earth in extraordinary ways: to teach, correct, warn, and inspire His people according to the needs of the age.” Elizabeth will be interviewed on This is the Day on June 22nd.

Elizabeth Ficocelli is the author of the book “Bleeding Hands, Weeping Stone” which examines miracles related to the Catholic faith. Some of these miracles include, communion hosts turning into real flesh, the miraculous appearances of images, miraculous wounds, and more. Learn more about Elizabeth’s work at the following website: http://www.elizabethficocelli.com/

This is the Day airs at 10:30AM ET at CatholicTV.com and on CatholicTV. The show is rebroadcast at 7:30PM.

Exposition of the Holy Shroud of Turin

Image of Jesus on Holy Shroud of Turin

The photograph and following news story regarding the exposition of the Holy Shroud of Turin is posted on Catholic Online:

Vatican Information Service

The Shroud of Turin is believed by millions of Christians to be the burial cloth which wrapped the body of Jesus Christ following His death. The pure linen cloth in a fishbone weave measures 4.37 metres by 1.11 metres. It contains the full frontal and dorsal imprints of a supine man and has carmine-colour stains corresponding to blood.

VATICAN CITY (VIS) - On 10 April, the exposition of the Holy Shroud of Turin will open in the cathedral of that Italian city. One of the highlights of the exposition, which is due to end on 23 May, will be the visit of Benedict XVI, who will celebrate Mass in the city's Piazza San Carlo on 2 May.

The Shroud of Turin is believed by millions of Christians to be the burial cloth which wrapped the body of Jesus Christ following His death. The pure linen cloth in a fishbone weave measures 4.37 metres by 1.11 metres. It contains the full frontal and dorsal imprints of a supine man and has carmine-colour stains corresponding to blood.

It is marked with a double series of dark spots caused by burns it suffered in a fire in the sixteenth century, while the water use to douse the flames has left broad symmetrical rings, clearly visible. Less visible are transverse marks corresponding to creases in the linen which, before its final voyage to Turin in 1578, had been preserved in a reliquary in forty-eight folds.

The man in the image is 180 centimetres tall and has long hair, a beard and moustache. The eyes are closed, the hands and forearms crossed, and the body bears signs of torture.

During the period of the exposition, daily Mass will be celebrated in the cathedral in front of the Shroud at 7 a.m., followed by Lauds. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed in the penitentiary of Palazzo Chiablese throughout the day. The chapel will be reserved for silent prayer and Eucharistic worship.

Priests will be available in the penitentiary to hear confessions and administer the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The exposition route to view the Shroud will be open from the end of Mass up to 8 p.m. (reservations are required). It will also be possible to enter the cathedral by the main door, but then the Shroud will only be visible from a distance.

The nave will be reserved for prayers and silent reflection. In the evening, depending on the calendar, the cathedral may be open for special ceremonies or religious cultural events.

The website provides texts and information concerning all aspects of the organization of the exposition.

Akiane Kramarik - Paintings Inspired by Visions of Heaven

YouTube - Girl with godly visions !!

The interview of Akiane Kramarik is from CNN. The inspiration for her art and literature comes from her visions of heaven and God.  For additional information about her paintings, visit the website of Akiane Kramarik.

Prayers to Saint Jude: Patron of Hopeless and Desperate Cases

Saint Jude Thaddeus

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to St. Jude

 Patron of Hopeless and Desperate Cases

O most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.

Make use, I implore you, of that particular privilege given to you, to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly (state your request) and that I may praise God with you and all the elect forever.

I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen.

Saint Jude Heals King Abgar of Edessa

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer To Saint Jude Thaddeus the Apostle

True relative

Of Jesus and Mary,

I salute you through

This Sacred Heart of Jesus!

Through his Heart

I praise and thank God

For all the graces

He has bestowed upon you.

Humbly prostrate before you

I implore you,

Through His Heart,

To look down upon me

With compassion.

Despite my poor prayer;

Let not my trust

Be confounded!

To you God has granted

The privilege of

Aiding mankind

In the most desperate cases.

Oh, come to my aid

Until I can thank you in heaven.

All my life

I will be your grateful client

Until I can thank you in heaven.

Amen.

St. Jude, pray for us

And for all who invoke your aid.

Amen.

Saint Jude Novena

(to be prayed for 9 consecutive days)

Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of difficult cases, of things almost despaired of, Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.

Intercede with God for me that He bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly (make your request here) and that I may praise God with you and all the saints forever. I promise, O Blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor granted me by God and to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen

May the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, and loved in all the tabernacles until the end of time. Amen.
May the most Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised and glorified now and forever. Amen
St. Jude pray for us and hear our prayers. Amen.

Blessed be the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Blessed be the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Blessed be St. Jude Thaddeus, in all the world and for all Eternity.

Pray the Our Father and the Hail Mary

***

The prayers can be found on Catholic websites.

For additional daily prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

For biographical information, please visit the following link: Saint Jude

The upper stained glass window detail of Saint Jude can be seen inside of the St. Anthony of Padua Church. The Catholic church is located on 1360 Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange, New Jersey, USA.

The lower stained glass window of Saint Jude healing King Abgar of Edessa can be seen inside of Saint Jude's Church, located on 40 Maxim Drive in Hopatcong, NJ, USA.

Photographs Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Blue Army Shrine Featured on EWTN's New Series - The Faithful Traveler

Photographed on October 18, 2009 at the Blue Army Shrine

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Fatima - Our Lady of Fatima - World Apostolate of Fatima, USA - Blue Army Shrine

EWTN's new television series, The Faithful Traveler will feature on Sunday, March 21st, The Blue Army Shrine of The Immaculate Heart of Mary.  The show airs at 5:00 pm EST.  The Catholic shrine is located on 674 Mountain View Road in scenic Washington, New Jersey.

The following excerpt is from the website of The Faithful Traveler:

The show's host, Diana von Glahn takes viewers on a tour of New Jersey’s National Blue Army Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, telling the story of the Marian apparitions to three shepherd children at Fatima, Portugal in the early 20th century.

Rev. Paul Ruge, the shrine’s rector, discusses how Lucia dos Santos, and Francisco and Jacinta Marto offered up sacrifices for the reparation and conversion of sinners.

Mirjana Soldo's Annual March 18, 2010 Apparition of Our Lady

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Mirjana’s Annual March 18, 2010 Apparition - Medjugorje.com

The following message from Our Lady of Medjugorje was communicated to visionary Mirjana Soldo:

“Dear children! Today I call you to love with all your heart and with all your soul. Pray for the gift of love, because when the soul loves it calls my Son to itself. My Son does not refuse those who call Him and who desire to live according to Him. Pray for those who do not comprehend love, who do not understand what it means to love. Pray that God may be their Father and not their Judge. My children, you be my apostles, be my river of love. I need you. Thank you.”

***

The stained glass window of the Blessed Mother and Child Jesus can be seen inside of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. The Catholic church is located in Boonton, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Saint Patrick Prayer

May the Strength of God pilot us.

May the Power of God preserve us.

May the Wisdom of God instruct us.

May the Hand of God protect us.

May the Way of God direct us.

May the Shield of God defend us.

May the Host of God guard us.

Against the snares of the evil ones.

Against temptations of the world

May Christ be with us!

May Christ be before us!

May Christ be in us,

Christ be over all!

May Thy Salvation, Lord,

Always be ours,

This day, O Lord, and evermore. Amen.

***

The prayer can be found on the following link:
Our Catholic Prayers

For prayers to inspire your faith, please visit the following link:
Devotional Prayers

The statue of St. Patrick can be seen inside of
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

The Catholic church is located in Boonton, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar

Christian-Miracles.com

Hearts Aflame: Reaching for Eternity with God's Love

Hearts Aflame: The Light of Eternity on Flickr - Photo Sharing

 

By Loci B. Lenar

Reaching for Eternity with God's Love

Hearts Aflame is a Catholic youth magazine published during the 1990's by the World Apostolate of Fatima, USA. The apostolate is located in Warren County on Mountain View Road, Washington, New Jersey. The focus of the magazine included the message of Our Lady of Fatima as well as Christian and Catholic themes related to teenagers.

In the early 1990's while visiting the National Blue Army Shrine, which is located on the grounds of the World Apostolate of Fatima, I had the opportunity to meet Sr. Mary Celeste, A.M.I., editor of the publication. In our conversations regarding Christianity and the Catholic faith, she became aware of my experience in promoting art and agreed to have my article regarding artist Benny Andersson published in Hearts Aflame. The article focuses on Andersson's source of inspiration in creating contemporary Chistian paintings. The magazine cover, The Light of Eternity is painted by artist Benny Andersson.

Benny's artwork is timeless and is relevant today as it was in the 1990's. 

The following excerpt is from my article published in the Summer 1992 issue of Hearts Aflame:

Aspiration is a repeated theme in Benny Andersson's paintings.  In The Holy Family, which presents the modern Christian family suspended in the center of the universe protected by God's Guardian Angels, God's light shedding its love, a constant in the vastness of the universe.

The Holy Family by Benny Andersson

  
As he begins each work, Benny says, "God is very much in my mind, and somewhere just beyond is the idea of glorifying the Creator." As he paints, he says, "There are moments when an enlightenment comes, when the ideas are presented to me begin to take shape."

These are not in any way predictable, and sometimes, he adds, "I can leave a painting unfinished because the idea is incomplete, or I have not the present perspective to see it through to fulfillment. In this kind of instance, I put aside the work and go on to another."

"And the really surprising thing is that at a later time, when I have thought or believed my way to the conclusion, I will return to the unfinished painting and know exactly what it needs."

"I do know that with the moments of enlightenment my perspective brings, there is a deep, uplifting feeling that is just about impossible to put into words. Perhaps it is the Holy Spirit energizing me."

He says, "The act of painting gives me a feeling of wonder and love. This is God's greatest gift to me, and I see my career as an artist as a unique opportunity to share these Christian ideas with others."

Benny believes that is true not only of himself, but of other artists whose inspiration comes from religious belief. His paintings he sees as being "like visual prayers. Paint and brushes are sacred tools."

"They serve me in order that I might share the dreams that pour into my soul. There must be an eternal source of beauty that dwells within the sphere of God, waiting to be unveiled."

"I feel artists have a sacred quest to reach toward the source of life with their art."

Copyright 1992 and 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

St Ann Novena

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Novena To Saint Ann

O glorious St. Ann, you are filled with compassion for those who invoke you and with love for those who suffer! Heavily burdened with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at your feet and humbly beg of you to take the present intention which I recommend to you in your special care.

Please recommend it to your daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and place it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Continue to intercede for me until my request is granted. But, above all, obtain for me the grace one day to see my God face to face, and with you and Mary and all the saints to praise and bless Him for all eternity. Amen.

Our Father . . .

Hail Mary . . .

O Jesus, Holy Mary, St. Ann, help me now and at the hour of my death.

Good St. Ann, intercede for me.

FIRST DAY

Dear St. Ann, though I am but a prodigal child, I appeal to you and place myself under your great motherly care. Please listen to my prayers and grant my requests. See my contrite heart, and show me your unfailing goodness.

Deign to be my advocate and recommend me to God’s infinite mercy. Obtain for me forgiveness of my sins and the strength to begin a new life that will last forever.

Blessed St. Ann, I also beg of you the grace to love, to serve, and to honor your daughter, the most holy Virgin Mary. Please recommend me to her and pray to her for me. She refuses none your requests but welcomes with loving kindness all those for whom you intercede.

Good Jesus, be merciful to the faithful servants of Your grandmother St. Ann.

SECOND DAY

From the depths of my heart, good St. Ann, I offer you my homage this day and ask you to shelter me under the mantle of your motherly care. You know, good mother, how much I love you, how gladly I serve you, how happy I am to praise you, how eager I am to call on you in time of distress.

Good St. Ann, be pleased to extend your helping hand in all my wants. Listen to my prayers, for I place my trust in your gracious bounty. Make all my thoughts and desires worthy and righteous.

Jesus, I thank You for all the graces which in Your infinite goodness You have lavished upon St. Ann; for having chosen her, among all women, to be Your grandmother on earth and exalted her in heaven with such great and miraculous powers. In the name of her merits, I humbly recommend myself to Your infinite mercy.

THIRD DAY

Hail, good St. Ann, who first responded to the needs of Mary, Mother of our Savior and Queen of Angels. Hail to you and to your husband St. Joachim, who watched over her infancy, presented her to the Lord in the temple and, according to your promise, consecrated her to the service of God.

Hail St. Ann, good mother! I rejoice in the marvels you continually perform, because they encourage all to seek your intercession.

Good St. Ann, by the great power that God has given you, show yourself my mother, my consoler, my advocate. Reconcile me to the God I have so deeply offended. Console me in my trials; strengthen me in my struggles. Deliver me from danger in my time of need. Help me at the hour of death and open to me the gates of paradise.

FOURTH DAY

Good St. Ann, you offered your pure and holy daughter Mary in the temple with faith, piety and love. By the happiness which then filled your heart, I beg you to present me to your Grandson Jesus. Offered by you, I will be agreeable in His sight.

Kind St. Ann, take me forever under your protection. Deliver me from the temptations which continually assail me. Above all, attend me in my last hour. As I lie on my deathbed, be present with your daughter to console and strengthen me.

Holy Mary and good St. Ann, show yourselves to be mothers indeed by obtaining for me the grace of a good death. When my soul goes forth, lead it to God’s tribunal so that, by your powerful help and intercession, it may obtain a favorable judgment.

FIFTH DAY

Hail, all-powerful Lady. By God’s special favor, grant consolation to those who invoke you. Procure for them the eternal riches of heaven, and like a good mother, success in their temporal affairs as well.

Good St. Ann, obtain my deliverance from the punishment which my sins deserve. Obtain for me success in my temporal affairs; especially see to the salvation of my soul.

St. Ann, by your influence with Mary’s son Jesus, you have won the gift of conversion for many sinners. Will you then abandon me, who have chosen you as my mother? No, St. Ann. Your name alone, which signifies grace, assures me of the help of your prayers, and these prayers will surely procure pardon and mercy from Jesus. You will pray for me now and at the hour of my death.

SIX DAY

Good St. Ann, do not allow my soul, a masterpiece of God’s creative power, to be lost forever. Free my heart of pride, vanity, self-love. May I know myself as I really am and learn meekness and simplicity of heart.

God’s great love for me leaves me cold and unresponsive. I must reflect this love through works of mercy and charity toward my neighbor.

In your boundless charity, good St. Ann, help me to merit the glorious crown which is given to those who have fought the good fight against the world, the devil and the flesh. Assist me to preserve purity of heart and body. With Mary and her divine Son, protect me always.

SEVENTH DAY

Once again, Good St. Ann, I choose you for my advocate before the throne of God. By the power and grace that God has placed in you, extend to me your helping hand. Renew my mind and my heart.

Dear St. Ann, I have unbounded confidence in your prayers. To your blessed hands I entrust my soul, my body and all my hopes for this world and the next. Direct my actions according to your goodness and wisdom. I place myself under your motherly care.

Receive me, good mother. Cover me with the mantle of your love. Look kindly on me. By your powerful intercession, may I obtain from God grace and mercy. Obtain for me remission for sin and release from the punishment my offenses have deserved. Pray that I may receive grace to lead a devout life on earth and that I may obtain the everlasting reward of heaven.

EIGHTH DAY

Hail, St. Ann! I rejoice at your exalted glory. You gave birth to Mary, whose divine Son brought salvation to our lost world by conquering death and restoring life and hope to sinners. Pray to Him who, for love of us, clothed Himself with human flesh in the chaste womb of your daughter.

Glorious St. Ann, with your blessed daughter, deliver me from everything that is displeasing in the sight of God. Pray to your gentle and powerful Grandson that He may cleanse my soul in His precious blood, that He may send His Holy Spirit to enlighten and direct me in all that I do, always obedient to His holy inspirations.

Good mother, keep a watchful eye on me. Help me bear all my crosses. Give me the fullness of your bounty and sustain me with courage.

NINTH DAY

Good St. Ann, I have reached the end of this novena in your honor. I have asked and ask again. Good mother, let not your kind ear grow weary of my prayers, though I repeat them so often.

Bounteous Lady, implore for me from divine Providence all the help I need through life. May your generous hand bestow on me the material means to satisfy my own needs and to alleviate the plight of the poor.

Good St. Ann, fortify me by the sacraments of the Church at the hour of my death. Admit me into the company of the blessed in the kingdom of heaven, where I may praise and thank the adorable Trinity, your grandson Christ Jesus, your glorious daughter Mary, and yourself, dear St. Ann, through endless ages.

The prayer can be found on the websites of 

ST. ANN’S SHRINE and EWTN

Daily Devotional Prayers

***

The stained glass window detail of St. Ann can be seen inside of

the Church of St. Michael in Netcong, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar

Lenten Prayers for Spiritual Renewal

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Jesus called out with a loud voice,

"Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."

When he had said this, he breathed his last.

-Luke 23:46

Lenten Prayer for Spiritual Renewal - Prayers - Catholic Online

Lenten Prayer for Spiritual Renewal

God, heavenly Father,
look upon me and hear my prayer
during this holy Season of Lent.
By the good works You inspire,
help me to discipline my body
and to be renewed in spirit.

Without You I can do nothing.
By Your Spirit help me to know what is right
and to be eager in doing Your will.
Teach me to find new life through penance.
Keep me from sin, and help me live
by Your commandment of love.
God of love, bring me back to You.
Send Your Spirit to make me strong
in faith and active in good works.

May my acts of penance bring me Your forgiveness,
open my heart to Your love,
and prepare me for the coming feast
of the Resurrection of Jesus.

Lord, during this Lenten Season,
nourish me with Your Word of life
and make me one
with You in love and prayer.

Fill my heart with Your love
and keep me faithful to the Gospel of Christ.
Give me the grace to rise above my human weakness.
Give me new life by Your Sacraments, especially the Mass.

Father, our source of life,
I reach out with joy to grasp Your hand;
let me walk more readily in Your ways.
Guide me in Your gentle mercy,
for left to myself I cannot do Your Will.

Father of love, source of all blessings,
help me to pass from my old life of sin
to the new life of grace.

Prepare me for the glory of Your Kingdom.
I ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You
and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever.

Amen.

Lenten Prayer

Almighty and Everlasting God,
You have given the human race
Jesus Christ our Savior as a model of humility.
He fulfilled Your Will by becoming Man
And giving His life on the Cross.
Help us to bear witness to You
By following His example of suffering
And make us worthy to share in His Resurrection.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son.

Amen.

Our Father...

MARY, Mother of Jesus,
you were Jesus’ gift for us from the Cross.
He gave you to us as our mother.
Intercede for all our needs.

Hail Mary...

Glory Be...


Visit the following link for other Daily Devotional Prayers.

***

The statue of Jesus and the cross are on the grounds of the Blue Army Shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The shrine is located at 674 Mountain View Road in Washington, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar

There is Good News...A New Day Dawns

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all people; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.

Joel 2:28

Guest Opinion: The following excerpt from an interesting article by Junior desouza Ministries is presented here for your prayerful discernment.

A New Day Dawns - Junior desouza Ministries

A New Day Dawns
Biblical Basis

In Scripture, the dawning of a new era in God's plan is illustrated by the rising of a sun. Such "dawns" or "mornings" can pertain to a single person (Ps 57:8, 108:2, Isa 38:13), God's people (Mt 4:15,16), or even the entire world (Isa 26:19). However, the metaphor is consistent: a glorious sunrise terminating a long, dark night. Here's a few examples.

The incarnation of the Messiah dawned a much-awaited new day. Matthew, quoting Isaiah the prophet, said of Jesus' arrival (Mt 4:15,16, underline added): "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles--the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." Zechariah, in his prophetic celebration of John the Baptist, spoke similarly (Lk 1:78,79,): ...the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death.

Jesus, the Morning Star, was dawning the New Testament era. Notice the providential metaphor...He resurrected at dawn (Lk 24:1-3), and birthed the church in the morning (Ac 2:15).

Isaiah and Hosea prophesied a new day would dawn for Israel, a day when the Lord would relent from His judgments against her and restore her completely. Isaiah 30:19-26 is the entire passage with several promises, but notice the illustration used in verse 26 (underline added): The moon will shine like the sun, and the sunlight will be seven times brighter, like the light of seven full days, when the LORD binds up the bruises of his people and heals the wounds he inflicted. Hosea foretells likewise. The entire passage is Hosea 6:1-3, but once again, notice the illustration used in verse 3: Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.

The dawning of new days can also be personal. David said weeping would last throughout the night season, during the momentary anger of the Lord. However, joy would come "in the morning"--when a new season dawned--and that favor would last a lifetime (Ps 30:5).

Hezekiah, in the midst of his agonizing illness, said (Isa 38:13): I waited patiently till dawn, but like a lion he broke all my bones; day and night you made an end of me. After eating some boiled figs, he recovered miraculously and his new day dawned (v21).

Song of Songs refers to Solomon's bride as a "sunrise". Song of Songs 6:10: Who is this that appears like the dawn, fair as the moon, bright as the sun, majestic as the stars in procession? The friends could see that her presence in his life was a brilliant sunrise to him. She dawned a new day for Solomon.

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The Lord God is a sun, dawning new days of shielding, favor, honor, and good things for those who walk blamelessly with Him (Ps 84:11). He is the Morning Star (Rev 22:16), and that very nature demands that He manifest as a sunrise somewhere. Will you be that somewhere?
 
A New Day Dawns
Prophetic Rhetoric?
 
 I present this message to you today in childlike sincerity and divine seriousness. I say this, because, numerous prophecies are presently circulating about a coming "new day" or "new era", in this arena or that. Some of these words are 100% authentic, while some are hand-me-downs reissued in the spirit of prophetic rhetoric. The phrase new day has a high voltage, charged with sensation and hope, capable of being exploited simply as a mesmerizing catch-phrase.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, from the depths of my heart, I assure you this message is not prophetic rhetoric, spiritual sensationalism, Charismatic mesmerism, or trending/fadding. This is not a bandwagon prophecy. I have enjoyed several enlightening experiences the past few weeks that verified the Lord is truly revealing the dawning of a new day. A giddy excitement has filled my heart as this hope trickles down into my core!

As with all prophetic messages, I urge you to prove this word in your own secret place with the Master. I urge you to prayerfully wait on Him and the various confirmations He will provide in the coming weeks and months. And as He does, rejoice! I am so happy for what the Lord has scheduled! Many of His weary warriors and faithful fighters have waited long years for this good news.

In writing this, the Spirit urged me on joyfully from Isaiah 40:1,2: Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins.

For those of us who thought/think our warfare would never give way to a new era, the Lord cries from Isaiah 66:9, "Do I bring to the moment of birth and not give delivery?" says the LORD. "Do I close up the womb when I bring to delivery?" says your God.

An Era of Peace from War
The Ending of Heavy Warfare

The day is coming when many will no longer look over their shoulder for fear of the enemy's flood. The bullride will be over. It will be a day of peace from war, a day of rest on every side, a day when mega-seasons of brutal warfare have resulted in victory and subjugation of the enemy. David entered this era personally (see Psalm 18).

In that day many will quote the following scriptures (Ps 9:6 NKJV, 18:37,38, 46:9): O enemy, destructions are finished forever!...I pursued my enemies and overtook them; I did not turn back till they were destroyed. I crushed them so that they could not rise; they fell beneath my feet...He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. Their prayer from Psalm 7:9 will finally be answered: Oh, let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just.
 
An Era of Successful Building
A Time to Build

The circumstancial peace will allow for settling down and the development of God-inspired projects. The enemy's resistance will be minimal and quickly manageable. It will be a time to focus energies not on warfare, but on building. Important progress will be made and God-dreams will become reality.

In that day many will have the experience of King Asa and Judah (2Chr 14:5-7): He built up the fortified cities of Judah, since the land was at peace. No one was at war with him during those years, for the LORD gave him rest. "Let us build up these towns," he said to Judah, "and put walls around them, with towers, gates and bars. The land is still ours, because we have sought the LORD our God; we sought him and he has given us rest on every side." So they built and prospered.
 
An Era of Long-awaited Second Chances
The Redemption of Major Mistakes

Waiting for a second chance to redeem colossal mistakes can be torturous. The humiliation and reproach weigh heavy on our souls, imposing a necessary sanctification on our pride, motives, and goals. For those who cooperated with the humbling, a new day of long-awaited second-chances will arrive.

In that day many will sing from Joel 2:19,26,27: The LORD will reply to them: "I am sending you grain, new wine and oil, enough to satisfy you fully; never again will I make you an object of scorn to the nations...You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the LORD your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed. Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the LORD your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed.
 
An Era of Unusual Confidence
Fearless and Sure, Finally

Insecurity and hesitation are pandemic in God's people. Heaven and earth are overwhelmed by the opportunities missed, relationships passed up, expressions suppressed, destinies delayed. This new era will be one of great inner strength and confidence, where insecurities and hesitations no longer restrain the faithful from the risks and adventures of the Christ-life. The faithful will assert and initiate in ways that terrified them before. Fear of rejection will be replaced with fear of missing the blessing.

In that day these once-fearful ones will praise from Psalm 65:5 (NKJV): O God of our salvation, you who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth.

An Era of Surprising New Work
Unexpected Vocational Reordering

Work will be reordered in a major way. Many will be surprised, even shocked (pleasantly), at the unexpected new tasks and projects the Lord appoints them to. Major portions of many destinies have been kept carefully concealed until this time. This has been for both lofty and practical reasons. The dawning of this new day will dawn abrupt and unforeseen work assignments that will reorder many Christians' vocational lives completely.

An Era of New Demarcation Lines in Conscience
Expansion of Personal Liberties

The Lord will be greatly expanding the personal liberties of many in this new day. The demarcation lines of their conscience will widen into a broad place (1Co 8:7-12, 10:25-29, Ro 14). Many who were under divine "restriction" and testing will be released from seasonal prohibitions. Many who were legalistic in certain areas will be illumined to the overstrictness of their convictions. A widespread relaxation from divine permission is dawning.

In that day many will say (Ps 16:6,11, 84:11, Ro 14:17): The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places...with eternal pleasures at your right hand...no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless...For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

In that day many will testify with the words of Amos (Am 7:14,15): "I was neither a prophet nor a prophet's son, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the LORD took me from tending the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to my people Israel.'

***

To read the complete article, please visit the following link: A New Day Dawns

Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith Nominated in 2009 for Catholic New Media Awards

Lenar's Website and Blog Recognized for Reporting News of Signs, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith.

Commencing in 2007 and onward, Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith set in motion a campaign to publicize news connected to Christianity and Catholicism with biblical insight. With an increased number of reports related to the miraculous, the blog embarked on broadcasting events in order to create public awareness of signs and wonders arising from Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Loci B. Lenar launched the blog because of his own personal growth in the Catholic faith, resulting from a spiritual encounter with the Lord in 1991. The event was life changing and transformed him into a faithful believer of the gospels of Jesus Christ.

Subject matter related to Lenar’s testimony is in several articles, posted on his other website, Signs, Wonders, and Miracles. In 2008, he created the new site as a gathering place for all who are seeking Jesus, especially Christians and Catholics to renew their faith with God through inspirational stories and news of miracles. The site has a selection of prayers that visitors can use in their daily devotions as well.

As our millennium unfolds, Lenar believes that God the Father is calling His people to move forward with Christian unity by awakening church leaders and promoting efforts to instill peace into religious denominations through constructive change. Further information on the issue is noted in Tribute to King: Signs from the Heavenly Kingdom. The spiritual locution from Jesus can be examined and studied by visiting the Signs, Wonders, and Miracles website.

Lenar has shared the locutions with his spiritual advisor, Father Richard Tartaglia of Saint Mary's Church, Denville, NJ.

Regarding God's word, 1Samuel 12:16 states, Now then, stand ready to witness the great marvel the Lord is about to accomplish before your eyes.

In Luke 18:27, Jesus said, “What is impossible for human beings is possible for God.” In unified prayer, all is possible with faith in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Through the power of Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit, he believes that the message of Our Lady of Fatima from her 1917 apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, pertaining to an era of peace, will unfold as well. He believes that Revelation 20:1-3 will come to light with a Thousand-year Reign of God’s Peace. The blog and website will report news related to the topic as events unfold.

Lenar is grateful for Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith being recognized and nominated in 2009 in categories of Most Informative Blog, People’s Choice Blog, and for Best Blog by a Man. His website, Signs, Wonders, and Miracles is nominated as well in categories of Best Catholic News Website and for Best Overall Catholic Website.

Voting continues until June 30, 2009. Please register and cast your votes today for your favorite blog and website at Catholic New Media Awards. Voting results will be available in July.

Thank you very much for your kind support of all the nominees in the 2009 Catholic New Media Awards contest.

(A press release was submitted through Catholic Online)

Copyright 2009 Christian-Miracles.com

Signs, Wonders, and Miracles

Signs, Wonders, and Miracles: News Connected to Christianity and Catholicism with Biblical Insight

I'm happy to announce the completion of my new website at the following link: http://www.christian-miracles.com/

On September 8, 1991, through a spiritual visitation, our Lord Jesus Christ imparted me (Loci B. Lenar) with a personal revelation and a prophetic vision of our world Blessed in Peace.

The Lord's plan is to move forward during our millennium and instill His peace amongst nations, religious denominations, and people. The contents of the message are unfolding in our millennium through signs, wonders, and miracles.

The following is noted in John, Chapter 4, Verse 48: Jesus said, "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders, you will never believe."

The following is conveyed in Ezekiel 12: 26-28, "Thus the word of the Lord came to me: Son of man, listen to the house of Israel saying, 'The vision he sees is a long way off; he prophesies of the distant future!' Say to them therefore: Thus says the Lord God; None of my words shall be delayed any longer; whatever I speak is final, and it shall be done, says the Lord God."

However, we must pray for God's divine intervention and remain patient, in order for Jesus to set the stage and timing for signs, wonders, and miracles to unfold in our world. Fervent prayer can accomplish much and change the course of history into an era of peace!

In Matthew 18: 19-20, Jesus said: "Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Copyright 2008 Loci B. Lenar

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