Welcome Home to Healing - Lent 2018

Sacrament of Reconciliation - Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey

Catholics in the Diocese of Paterson, especially those who have been away from the Church, are invited to experience God’s healing love and forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation during Lent. Catholic churches in Morris, Sussex and Passaic Counties will be open for Confession every Monday, starting February 19, 2018 to March 19, 2018 from 7:00 PM-8:30 PM.

Message from Bishop Arthur Serratelli:

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Nothing is more startling and, at the same time, more consoling than the truth for which Jesus lived and preached and died. It is this: God is love. As the Psalmist says, “The Lord is a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, most loving and true” (Ps 86:15).

Throughout his public ministry, Jesus shows the face of God as compassionate and merciful in his healing miracles and exorcisms. Even before Jesus issues the summons to repent, he announces, “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand” (Mk 1:15). The kingdom is nothing other than the presence of God making his love known and felt in our lives.

Jesus opens us to the profound meaning of the kingdom with his parable of the Prodigal Son (Lk 15: 11-32). It is found at the very center of Luke’s Gospel. It is the very heart of the gospel itself! The son who takes his inheritance, squanders it away and finds himself unfulfilled is each of us. We take the gifts that God gives us and use them against God’s will. We are the ones left empty, longing and desiring more than our sinful lives can give.

As in the parable, so in life. God is the Father who sees us, runs to us and embraces us. He takes our feeble confession of sin and turns it into a moment of great rejoicing. Our sins strip us of our dignity. God clothes us with his grace and peace. Nothing can make God stop loving us. In fact, as Paul says, “God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us” (Rom 5: 8).

When Jesus preached such great love to sinners, the self-righteous took scandal. But not the tax-collector and the prostitutes (cf Mt 21: 31). They recognized in his ready forgiveness of even their worst sins that God was drawing them back to Himself. The self-righteous would not acknowledge their sins. They did not accept the free gift of God’s forgiveness offered in Christ. But others, like Zacchaeus and the woman caught in adultery, did and found peace.

Photographs by Loci B. Lenar

Through the ministry of the Church, God offers us his forgiveness in Christ Crucified and Risen. In the great sacrament of Reconciliation, God is already running to meet us. He wants to welcome us. He wants to exchange our dirty rags of prideful self-indulgence with the righteousness of Christ Crucified. He wants to bring us back into the joy of his home and into the fellowship of his Church. He longs to see us reconciled with Himself and with others.

Like the prodigal son barely able to confess his sins, we, at times, are ashamed and even afraid to name those evils that separate us from God who loves us so much. But the Father is not ashamed to recognize us as his own son or daughter. He longs to wrap his arms around us. He is waiting to welcome us to home.

Now is the time to meet the Lord in Confession and know the joy of coming home.

May the Lord who calls us to be one with him lead us through repentance into the embrace of his love.

***

The billboard with the Lenten message is located on the eastbound side of Route 46, Rockaway, Morris County, New Jersey,

Photographs Copyright 2018 Loci B. Lenar

A Powerful Prayer for God's Protection

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. - Luke 22:43


Psalm 91

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

They say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."

Surely he will save you
from the fowler's snare
and from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday.

A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.

You will only observe with your eyes
and see the punishment of the wicked.
If you say, "The LORD is my refuge,"
and you make the Most High your dwelling,
no harm will overtake you,
no disaster will come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways;
they will lift you up in their hands,
so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

"Because they love me," says the LORD, "I will rescue them;
I will protect them, for they acknowledge my name.
They will call on me, and I will answer them;
I will be with them in trouble,
I will deliver them and honor them.
With long life I will satisfy them
and show them my salvation."

If you examine the photograph closely, sunlight is creating a beautiful and interesting reflection of Jesus on the right side of the window.

The reflection gives the appearance of a helmet being worn by Jesus and reminds us of the following scripture: "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." (Ephesians 6:14-17)

The stained glass window can be seen inside Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, Boonton, New Jersey, USA.

Photograph Copyright Loci B. Lenar

NOVENA TO OUR LADY FOR IMPOSSIBLE REQUESTS

 

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

NOVENA FOR IMPOSSIBLE REQUESTS

(This Novena honors the nine months during which Our Lady carried Our Blessed Lord in her womb.)

"Hail, Holy Queen,...
Mother of Mercy,
our life, our sweetness and our hope!
To thee do we cry,
poor banished children of Eve;
to thee do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
thine eyes of mercy towards us;
and after this our exile,
show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb Jesus.
O clement, O loving,
O sweet Virgin Mary. Amen."

V - Pray for us, most holy mother of God.
R - That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

"Virgin of the Incarnation,
a thousand times we greet thee,
a thousand times we praise thee
for thy joy when God was incarnated in thee.
Because thou art so powerful
a Virgin and Mother of God,
grant what we ask of thee for the love of God."

Here state your first intention.
Repeat all of above and then state your second intention.
Repeat all of above and then state your third intention.

CONCLUSION:

After the above prayers and intentions, say the Memorare.

Remember, O most Gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known
that anyone who fled to thy protection,
implored thy help
or sought thy intercession was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence,
I fly unto thee,
O Virgin of Virgins,
my mother.
To thee do I cry,
before thee I stand,
sinful and sorrowful.
Mother of the Word Incarnate,
despise not my petitions,
but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Amen.

Hail Mary...

Blessed and praised be
the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar,
in Heaven, on earth and everywhere.
AMEN.

(Pray for 9 days)

More Catholic Prayers

Dominican Publications Releases Nov/Dec 2012 Issue of Spirituality Journal

Spirituality Journal - Vol.18, No. 105

 
Spirituality Journal

Dominican Publications has released the November/December 2012 issue of their Spirituality Journal with a photograph by Loci B. Lenar. The image reproduced is a stained glass window of St. John of the Cross, photographed in Summit, New Jersey. The Catholic journal is published in Dublin, Ireland.



St. John of the Cross - Stained Glass Window
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar



The following excerpt is from the Dominican Publications website:

Dominican Publications was founded in April 1897. They publish many books and also bring out four journals - Doctrine and Life (ten times a year), Religious Life Review (six times a year), Scripture in Church, with Guide for Readers (both four times a year), and Spirituality (six times a year).

Their Book publishing is in line with the interests of the Journals, the main focus being on Homiletics, the Bible and Liturgical aids, current theological problems, comment on political and social issues from a Catholic viewpoint, Spirituality, biography, Church documents and Religious Life.



November/December 2012 Spiritulity Journal 


Order Journals or Books: Dominican Publications

Prayer for Vocations by Bishop Arthur Serratelli

Bishop Arthur Serratelli - Photo by Loci B. Lenar



Diocese of Paterson New Jersey

 Prayer for Vocations

Father, in the fullness of time,
 you sent your Son,

born of the Virgin Mary to be our Savior.
He preached the good news of our salvation, 

healed the sick and cast out evil.
Now as crucified and risen Lord,

he pours out on us the Holy Spirit of adoption,


making us your sons and daughters.
Through the Church, he calls us to accept the gospel 

and to share in your own divine life.

Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life for all people.
In your mercy, you do not abandon us.
In every age, 
you raise up men and women
 to offer their lives
for the sake of the gospel
 and the work of the Church.

We beg you, therefore,
 grant to this local Church of Paterson 

an increase of vocations 
to the priesthood and religious life.
Give us courageous and faithful men
 to serve
as worthy priests and deacons.
Bless us with generous and zealous 
men and women
 willing to seek holiness 
in consecrated life.
May we rejoice in an abundance
 of vocations from our families

so that we may yield a rich harvest of good works 

for your honor and glory.
We ask this in the name of Jesus,
who lives and reigns
 with you and the Holy Spirit,

 One God, forever and ever.
Amen

+Most Rev. Arthur J. Serratelli, Bishop of Paterson

The photograph of Bishop Serratelli was taken inside of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, 427 Stanhope Road, Sparta, NJ.  To the left of Bishop Serratelli is a statue of Blessed Kateri who will be canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012.

 

Cross Appears on Holy Thursday

Cross Appears on April 5, 2012

Miracles of Faith - Signs, Wonders, and Miracles

By Loci B. Lenar

On the morning of Holy Thursday, I photographed a cross which appears annually on my property and backyard fence. Rays of sunlight is creating an image of a cross that is surrounded by a shield. This phenomenon first began in 2005 at my residence in Mine Hill, NJ, USA.

It usually happens during Lent and sometimes on other occasions. I believe it's a sign from Our Lord to share with others in order to help lead people back to God and their Christian faith.

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.  Psalm 84:11

Scripture tells us that the day before Jesus was crucified he shared his Last Supper with his disciples on a Thursday, celebrating Passover.

Holy Week is an important time to reflect and renew our spiritual life through the gospels of Jesus Christ and the Eucharist (Communion). Easter and the resurrection is a testament to God's love because we share in the redemptive power of the cross through Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”  John 8:12

Cross Appears on Holy Thursday in 2012

It's interesting to note that the cross first appeared in 2012 on St. Patrick’s Day which by the way is celebrated on March 17th. The above photos are from Holy Thursday.

From Last Year: Brooke Kayal examines Cross which appeared on March 27, 2011

On Wednesday, April 4th, I went to St. Mary's Rectory and sat down with my spiritual advisor, Fr. Richard Tartaglia and shared the photographs from St. Patrick’s Day and discussed spiritual matters as well. St. Mary's Catholic Church is located on Myers Avenue, Denville, New Jersey.

Further details regarding the cross and my testimony can be read in the article, ‘Cross Appears during Lent and Holy Week as Sign of God’s Love,’ or by visiting the website of http://www.christian-miracles.com/.

Copyright 2012 Loci B. Lenar

A Christmas Wonderland

A Christmas Wonderland - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

A Christmas Wonderland Video

A Christmas Wonderland | NowPublic.com Photos

By Loci B. Lenar

If you enjoy Christmas lights, you will not be disappointed if you take a detour and drive to 4 Debbie Place in Rockaway, NJ. The beautiful display of lights has become an annual event for the Rockaway Township homeowner. Visitors from all over northern New Jersey have come to see this colorful house which is decorated as a Christmas tree. 

In Remembrance of 9/11: Pray for Healing and World Peace

9/11 Memorial - Parsippany, NJ
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

In remembrance of all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, please join in prayer for healing and world peace.

The Millennium Prayer is written to pray daily to Our Heavenly Father for world peace. 

Jesus said in Mark 11:23-24, "Amen, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it shall be done for him. Therefore I tell you, all that you ask for in prayer, believe that you will recieve it and it shall be yours."


Millennium Prayer for World Peace

God the Father
Creator of the Heavenly Kingdom
We petition the Court of Heaven
And humbly pray for mercy and divine intervention.

Send forth blessings of spiritual deliverance—
Free nations from the strife of war—
Release cultures from the shackles of poverty—
Instill stability and prosperity—
Healing earth of suffering—
With saving grace for humanity—

We implore Heaven for miraculous signs
By altering the destiny of humankind
Into a glorious era of peace and harmony
Through divine love and prayerful unanimity—

Almighty Father we graciously thank thee
In granting our prayers through the name and power
of your divine Son, Jesus Christ.
Amen

Prayer Copyright 2005 Loci B. Lenar

Testimonies of Faith

Miracle at Cana
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Testimonies of Faith regarding God's blessings are shared on Christian-Miracles.com

By Loci B. Lenar

God calls us to share our faith and blessings in order to provide encouragement and hope for others. In doing so, we spread the gospels to those in need of our Lord's love and mercy which in turn helps to build the Kingdom of God here on earth.

So what does scripture convey regarding answered prayer and events that change our lives for the better as a result of God's blessings?

Oh give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; Speak of all His wonderful acts. (1Chronicles 16:8-9)

I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation. (Psalm 118:21)

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

With those words in mind, I wish to thank all subscribers and members of Christian-miracles.com for their kind support of our website. I also wish to express my gratitude to Fr. Richard Tartaglia and parishioners of St. Mary's Church, Denville, NJ, for praying on behalf of all who have submitted prayer requests through our site.

I give thanks to God for blessing our website as a public ministry of faith and hope. May the Blessed Mother and Holy Saints intercede on behalf of all that request prayer and obtain God's blessing and favor. May Almighty God the Father answer all your prayers through his divine son Jesus Christ.

Alfredo Briones writes: "Before finding this website (Christian-Miracles.com), my life was is disarray. My faith was diminishing, health was poor and my overall view of life was pessimistic. Through not only my prayers but through the prayers of those that prayed for me, Our Lord and Savior Jesus has answered my prayers. I am healthier; I am looking at life in a different perspective and my faith has risen to a new level. I truly believe that I was led to this wonderful website that has changed my life. I pray for everyone on this site and I will always be grateful for what this website has done for me. Praise God for he is the answer and the love; the power and the glory forever."

Annie Thomas writes: "I got internal peace and faith while browsing through this website (Christian-Miracles.com). May God make all things possible."

Fred writes: "I thank the Lord for guiding me to this website (Christian-Miracles.com); the strength of prayer is truly awesome and faith is powerful. May God watch over everyone on this site and answer all their prayer requests. Let us never give up hope and faith."

Maria Antonia writes: "I fell in love with this fantastic website (Christian-Miracles.com), and can't miss visiting even for one single day!"

Patricia Louis writes: " Loci, I'm so happy to have found you on the Internet!!! While searching the Internet for pictures of the Wedding Feast at Cana, I came across your Web Site (Flickr.com) and then on to Christian-Miracles.com (Signs, Wonders and Miracles). WOW! How awesome! It's a definite "bookmark" page. And I totally agree with you that "peace is coming!" Our Lady's January 25, 2011, Medjugorje message confirms it!"

Edna writes: "I believe it is by God’s grace that I came to this website (Christian-Miracles.com). I am a 31 year old woman living in Uganda and I am truly humbled by this site. As a young child, I heard my mum always say that Saint Jude Thaddeus is a true miracle worker. I chose him as my intercessor to Almighty God. I have no regrets whatsoever and I strongly say this with all confidence that he has seen me through my entire school life; helped me pass all my exams; got a good Job; great family, the list is endless."

Michael La Corte, Executive Director at The World Apostolate of Fatima, USA, writes: "Loci, congratulations on your beautiful site (Christian-Miracles.com) and informative blog (Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith), I am sure you touch many hearts and souls."

Please share your faith, blessings, testimony or story with our community. When sending email, please include your full name. Send to: Testimonial@Christian-Miracles.com

Wonders Photobook on Focus Project 2011

Miracle of the Sun
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Wonders of Color and Light Photobook on Focus Project 2011

By Loci B. Lenar

Twenty of my photographs have been submitted to the Focus Project 2011 in order to share my work with others. One of the photos, Miracle of the Sun was photographed in 2008 inside the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at the Shrine Blue Army of Our Lady of Fatima. The chapel is located on the grounds of the World Apostolate of Fatima, Washington, New Jersey.

After taking the photograph, I shared the image with my spiritual advisor, Fr. Richard Tartaglia, exactly as it was captured on the camera's digital memory card. The image was transferred on to a CD for St. Mary's Church archives in Denville, NJ.

The competition is open to everyone interested in photography and helps in supplying exposure to emerging photographers.  The Focus Project indicates on their website that portfolios are viewed by thousands of visitors every month.

Corpus Christi - 2
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

A jury will review all of the entries; the Grand Prize selected winner will be announced in March 2012.  For additional information, please visit the website: Focus Project 

In the meantime thank you very much for reviewing my portfolio and voting for my work at the following link: Wonders of Color and Light Photobook

St. Maria Goretti

St. Maria Goretti, originally uploaded by Loci Lenar.

The following biography is from Catholic Online:

Maria Goretti was Born in Corinaldo, Ancona, Italy, on October 16 1890; her farmworker father moved his family to Ferrier di Conca, near Anzio. Her father died of malaria and her mother had to struggle to feed her children.

In 1902 an eighteen-year-old neighbor, Alexander, grabbed her from her steps and tried to rape her. When Maria said that she would rather died than submit, Alexander began stabbing her with a knife.

As she lay in the hospital, she forgave Alexander before she died. Her death didn't end her forgivness, however.

Alexander was captured and sentenced to thirty years. He was unrepentant until he had a dream that he was in a garden. Maria was there and gave him flowers. When he woke, he was a changed man, repenting of his crime and living a reformed life. When he was released after 27 years he went directly to Maria's mother to beg her forgiveness, which she gave. "If my daughter can forgive him, who am I to withold forgiveness," she said.

When Maria was declared a saint in 1950, Alexander was there in the St. Peter's crowd to celebrate her canonization. She was canonized by Pope Pius XII in 1950 for her purity as model for youth.

She is called a martyr because she fought against Alexander's attempts at sexual assault. However, the most important aspect of her story is her forgiveness of her attacker -- her concern for her enemy extending even beyond death. Her feast day is July 6. St. Maria Goretti is the patroness of youth and for the victims of rape.

***

The statue of St. Maria Goretti is displayed inside the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, (Blue Army Shrine) which is located on the grounds of The World Apostolate of Fatima, Washington, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar

Woman says Pope John Paul II behind miracle cure

Statue of Pope John Paul II
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Lockport woman says Pope John Paul II behind miracle cure - Herald News

The following excerpt is from the Herald News:

LOCKPORT, IL — Mary Kern says a miracle cured her of eyelid spasms that could have caused blindness.

That miracle, she says, came in 2009 after her prayers to the late Pope John Paul II that asked him to intercede on her behalf before God.

Now the Lockport woman is petitioning the Vatican to have her miracle recognized as a grounds to elevate John Paul to sainthood.

This Sunday, John Paul will be beatified based upon a miracle reported in France. That brings the former pontiff one step closer to sainthood.

A second confirmed miracle — and Kern is hoping it is hers — would make John Paul eligible for full sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church.

Kern prays to God every day. She had a strong prayer life before her illness struck in 2006. In 2008, she began to pray particularly for healing. And since her healing in 2009, she has prayed every day in gratitude.

“I had a good prayer life before this, but this has made me more aware of miracles in life, miracles in other people’s lives that they take for granted,” Kern said. “It makes me more aware of the goodness of God, of the greatness of God, and that he does answer prayers — not always in the way we want them, but he does answer prayers.”

Read more: Mary Kern

Sister Marie Simon-Pierre to Speak at Beatification of Pope John Paul II

Pope John Paul II
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The Canadian Press: 'Miracle nun,' John Paul II aides to be protagonists in beatification ceremony

The following excerpt is by Nicole Winfield of The Associated Press:

VATICAN CITY — A French nun whose inexplicable cure from Parkinson's disease was the miracle needed to beatify Pope John Paul II will have a starring role in the Vatican's three-day, around-the-clock beatification extravaganza, officials said Tuesday.

Sister Marie Simon-Pierre, as well as John Paul's closest aide, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, and longtime spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls, will all speak about their experiences with the beloved pope at a prayer vigil at Rome's Circus Maximus on the eve of the May 1 beatification.

The Vatican on Tuesday released details about the ceremonies, which are expected to draw some 300,000 people to the Eternal City on charter trains, planes and boats. Tent cities are being planned at two locations outside the city in case hotel rooms become scarce.

Eight churches in Rome's historic centre will remain open all night from April 30 to May 1 for a "white night" of prayer reminiscent of the all-night cultural events that Rome and many other cities organize, said Cardinal Agostino Vallini, the pope's vicar for the diocese of Rome which is organizing many of the events.

St. Peter's Basilica itself is expected to keep its doors open well into the night of May 1 to accommodate the faithful who want to pray before John Paul's tomb, which will be moved upstairs from the grottoes underneath the basilica for the occasion.

Shortly after John Paul died, Sister Simon-Pierre says she experienced an inexplicable cure of her Parkinson's disease. Benedict earlier this year confirmed that her healing was indeed miraculous, setting the stage for the beatification.

Beatification is the last major step before possible sainthood, and means John Paul can be publicly venerated. No feast day has yet been set, Lombardi said.

Read more: Beatification of Pope John Paul II

Cross Appears During Lent as a Sign of God's Love

Cross Appears During Lent
 Examining the cross, Brooke said, "It looks like Jesus"
All photographs by Loci B. Lenar

Cross Appears During Lent as a Sign of God's Love

By Loci B. Lenar

As a Christian and practicing Catholic, God has called me to share my spiritual journey with others by being a witness to my faith through signs and wonders which are arising from Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In John 3:21, it says: "...whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."

Since 2005 a cross with an outline of a shield has appeared annually on my property in Mine Hill, New Jersey. Once again on March 27, 2011, rays of light from the sun are shining on the fence and creating an image of a cross. This image has been showing up every morning since last week. The image appears at the top of the fence and slowly descends until it touches the ground. It then changes into a circle and disappears. The cross can be seen for about 30 minutes.

Interesting Note: The sun is on the outside of the fence, while the cross appears on the inside. However, the sun is high above in the sky and God is shining his light upon humanity including our home and property. With that in mind, it's not impossible for God to send rays of light in all directions of the world, including inside our yard and on the fence.   Furthermore, there are no objects in our house windows which might cause a reflection.

I believe that God has opened the windows of heaven and is pouring out the Holy Spirit on our world.  Joel 2:28 says, "...I will pour out my Spirit on all people..."   
 

In Psalm 84:11, it says, “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”

Interestingly, this is the Lenten season, a time of spiritual renewal and conversion for Catholics and many Christians as we prepare for Easter.

Jesus said in John 12:46, "I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness."

My wife, Teresa, had invited her cousin Diane Kayal to come visit with her husband and children on Saturday, March 26th. Diane's daughter, Brooke, stayed overnight with my family. Then on Sunday morning, the cross appeared on our backyard fence at around 9:00 AM. Brooke went outside to examine the image. I photographed her standing next to the cross and Brooke said in awe, "It looks like Jesus."

Prior to Sunday, I went on March 24th to visit my spiritual advisor, Fr. Richard Tartaglia to speak with him about spiritual matters including the cross that began to appear once more on our property. I also gave Fr. Tartaglia an open invitation to visit my home to see the cross appear for himself.

On Monday, March 28th, I dropped off some photographs in the rectory office at St. Mary's Parish, which is located in Denville, NJ, for Fr. Tartaglia to examine and to keep for church archives.  Fr. Tartaglia is my spiritual advisor for over fifteen years.

I believe this cross is a sign for the world. God is forgiving and sending a message of love for people to return to the sacraments of the church and to reconcile through confession.

Our Lord is calling everyone to make a sincere effort to attend weekly church services or Holy Mass.  In doing so, it helps to receive Our Lord's blessings and divine favor.  

He is calling each person to pray for world peace and divine protection so that violence can be mitigated.  

Jesus is calling everybody to open their heart to receive the Holy Spirit in order to have peace in their lives and families and throughout the world. 

I believe the Lord's plan is to move forward with an era of peace as foretold by Our Lady of Fatima in her 1917 apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, and to fulfill Revelation 20:1-3 with a thousand-year reign of God's peace.  To read Our Lady's message, please visit the following link: The Fatima Message

I believe that if enough people pray, the course of history will change through God's divine intervention.

"For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37

May Our Lady intercede on behalf of humanity for God's mercy to enfold our world with peace and love.

May Our Heavenly Father bless you and answer all your prayers through his Divine Son, Jesus Christ.

Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

A Sun Phenomenon at the World Apostolate of Fatima, USA

Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

As a follow-up to the One World Praying for Life and Peace that was televised live by EWTN on Sunday, October 18, 2009, I am releasing previously unpublished photographs of the event. The prayer service was organized by The World Apostolate of Fatima, USA.  I attended this beautiful event at The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima which is part of the apostolate at 674 Mountain View Road in Washington, New Jersey.

It was estimated that millions of viewers had tuned into the program and joined in prayer for the sanctity of life and peace.

Visitors Photographing the Sun
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

I believe Our Lady of Fatima acknowledged the prayers of the faithful by giving a sign to humanity through her divine son, Jesus Christ.

Sun Phenomenon at Shrine
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Numerous visitors were blessed to witness a sun phenomenon and took photographs. I believe the sign was given as an affirmation of God's love for humanity and to acknowledge the prayers of everyone on this special day.

The sign I believe is intended to help evangelize the world through the gospels of Jesus Christ with Our Lady of Fatima's message. To read the message of Fatima, please visit the following link: http://www.wafusa.org/fatima_message/full_message/fatima_message_fullarticle.html

Visitors taking photos of Sun
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

In John 12:46-47, Jesus said, "I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world."

Celebration of Mass at Prayer Service
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Additional information about the event with more interesting photographs can be seen by visiting the website of Christian-Mircales.com at the following link:
http://www.christian-miracles.com/miracleatfatimashrine.htm

Please pray for the Lord's blessing and grace of mercy to enfold humanity and the unborn in order for all to respect life and for an era of peace to unfold.

Thank you very much for the kind prayer support.

A Reflection of God's Light in Madison, NJ

St. Vincent Martyr Catholic Church
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

While traveling through the town of Madison on October 9, 2010, I decided to visit St. Vincent Martyr Catholic Church.  My normal routine when I stop at any church is to go inside and say some prayers.  I also usually have my camera on hand and take some photographs as well.  If you're ever in Morris County, by all means do visit this beautiful church.  You will not be disappointed.  St. Vincent is located on 26 Green Village Road in Madison, New Jersey.

Some images from the church already appear in my previous blogger posts.  However, while looking over various photographs, one caught my attention which I find very interesting.

Mary and Infant Jesus Statue
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

I photographed the statue of Mary holding the infant Jesus which sits behind the alter and is surrounded by a flora arrangement and church lighting.  If you look at the picture very closely there is three distinct shadows appearing on the wall.  Two shadows on the right are of Mary and infant Jesus.

However, is the reflection of light creating a third image?  The shadow on the left appears different. Is the silhouette on the wall a likeness of the statue or perhaps an image of St. Joseph or Jesus? 

What's your opinion?  Is the image being caused by church lighting or perhaps a reflection of God's light? 

Our Lord indeed works in mysterious ways to grab the attention of people through signs!

Christian-Miracles.com is Now Optimized for Mobile Traffic




Miracle of the Sun
Rays of light flowing through stained glass window inside Blessed
Sacrament Chapel at World Apostolate of Fatima, USA. 
For more information, please click on link.
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

  
For Immediate Release

Christian-Miracles.com is Now Optimized for Mobile Traffic

In order to attain a larger audience and to reach out with evangelization, Loci B. Lenar believes that combining mobile friendly technology will help make it easier for visitors to grow in their faith by connecting to the website of Christian-Miracles.com.

Mobile users will automatically be redirected to a mobile version of the site when using the websites URL: http://www.christian-miracles.com/.  This new feature will easily display on all mobile phones including iPhone, Android, Blackberry, etc.

While exploring the website, Mr. Lenar believes that through the power of the Holy Spirit visitors will experience God's presence.



Corpus Christi Catholic Church
Sunlight flowing through stained glass windows and
creating beautiful reflection of colors on church floors.
Photo by Loci B. Lenar



By reading inspirational stories of faith and using daily devotional prayers, Lenar believes that Our Lord will refresh the soul and open the heart of people to receive God's blessing and peace.

In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

The site is a gathering place for all who are seeking Jesus, especially for Christians and Catholics to renew their faith through news of miracles.

With an increased number of reports related to the miraculous, Mr. Lenar in 2008 embarked on spreading the good news in order to create public awareness of signs and wonders arising from Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Documentation is posted on the website of Christian-Miracles.com.

Please consider answering the call by taking a leap of faith and opening the door for God to enter your life and to witness His divine love through inspiring news and miracles of faith by visiting Christian-Miracles.com.

Jesus the Light of the World

Jesus the Light of the World
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

While traveling through the town of Madison on October 9, 2010, I had an opportunity to stop at and photograph a bronze statue of Jesus which is located in front of St. Vincent Martyr Parish. Interestingly, on top of the statue, the sunlight is creating a noteworthy reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Bronze Statue of Jesus
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

In John 8:12, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Jesus also said in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

St. Vincent Martyr Church
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

If you're driving through Morris County, the Catholic Church is located on 26 Green Village Road, Madison, New Jersey.

Mass Schedule

Saturday: 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 7:15, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., 12:00 Noon, 5:00 p.m. in Spanish

(July & August: 7:15, 9:15, 11:15 a.m.)

Monday through Saturday: 8:30 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. (No 12:10 mass during July and August)

Holy Days of Obligation: 6:30, 8:30 a.m., 12:10, 7:00 p.m. (No 12:10 p.m. mass in August)

Directions to St. Vincent Martyr Church 

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Message of February 2, 2011

Our Lady - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Our Lady Queen of Peace of Medjugorje - Message given through visionary Mirjana Soldo on February 2, 2011

(For Non-Believers)

“Dear children, you are gathering around me, you are seeking your way, you are seeking, you are seeking the truth but are forgetting what is the most important, you are forgetting to pray properly. Your lips pronounce countless words, but your spirit does not feel anything. Wandering in darkness, you even imagine God Himself according to yourselves, and not such as He really is in His love. Dear children, proper prayer comes from the depth of your heart, from your suffering, from your joy, from your seeking the forgiveness of sins. This is the way to come to know the right God, and by that also yourselves, because you are created according to Him. Prayer will bring you to the fulfillment of my desire, of my mission here with you, to the unity of God’s family. Thank you.”

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Message of January 25, 2011

Our Lady
Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's monthly message conveyed to visionary Marija Pavlovic- Lunetti on January 25, 2011:

"Dear children! Also today I am with you and I am looking at you and blessing you, and I am not losing hope that this world will change for the good and that peace will reign in the hearts of men. Joy will begin to reign in the world because you have opened yourselves to my call and to God’s love. The Holy Spirit is changing a multitude of those who have said ‘yes’. Therefore I desire to say to you: thank you for having responded to my call."