Prayer for Saint Joseph's Intercession

PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH, PATRON OF WORKERS

(May 1 is the Feast of St. Joseph, the Worker)

Glorious Saint Joseph, you are the pattern of all who work. Obtain for me, please, the grace to work conscientiously and to put devotion to duty before my selfish inclinations. Help me to labor in thankfulness and joy, for it is an honour to employ and to develop by my labour the gifts I have received from almighty God. Grant that I may work in orderliness, peace, moderation and patience without shrinking from weariness and difficulties. I offer my fatigue and perplexities as reparation for sin. I shall work, above all, with a pure intention and with detachment from self,having always before my eyes the hour of death and the accounting which I must then render of time ill-spent, of talents unemployed, of good undone, and of empty pride in success, which is so fatal to the work of God. For Jesus through Mary, all in imitation of you, good Saint Joseph. This shall be my motto in life and in death. Amen.

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

More Prayers to St. Joseph

Francisco and Jacinta to be canonized during Pope Francis’ visit to Fatima on May 13, 2017

WAF USA – World Apostolate of Fatima U.S.A.

Pope Francis will canonize Blessed Francisco and Jacinta Marto at Mass during his visit to Fatima May 13, 2017, making them the youngest non-martyrs to ever be declared saints. The decision was made April 20 by a consistory of cardinals.

Pope St. John Paul II beatified Francisco, 11, and Jacinta, 10, on May 13, 2000, 83 years after the first apparition of the Blessed Mother at Fatima in 1917. It was during the May 13 apparition that Our Lady told the children she would take Francisco and Jacinta to heaven soon, but Lucia would remain on earth for “some time longer.”

The beatification of her two cousins was something Sister Lucia had asked for during her first meeting with Pope St. John Paul II on May 13, 1982 at Fatima. The Pope expressed his desire also to see the little shepherds soon beatified. Before the end of their meeting that day, they completed their visit in the Basilica at the tombs of Francisco and Jacinta.

Read more: WAF USA

Our Lady's Message of April 25, 2017

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Message of April 25 to to Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti:

"Dear children! Love, pray and witness my presence to all those who are far away. By your witness and example, you can draw closer the hearts that are far from God and His grace. I am with you and intercede for each of you so that, with love and resoluteness, you may witness and encourage all those who are far from my Immaculate Heart. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Have a Blessed and Happy Easter

The Resurrection of Jesus

After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 

(Matthew 28:1-10)

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

www.Christian-Miracles.com

Celebrating Fatima's 100 Years

CATECHIST Magazine: Five Lessons from Fatima 

In the April/May 2017 issue of Catechist Magazine there's a feature story on the Five Lessons of Fatima by Patrice Fagnant-Macarthur.

Patrice writes in her article that it provides "tips for guiding children into the heart of the message" of Our Lady of Fatima.  

In addition, a colorful stained glass window - photographed by Loci B. Lenar provides a graphical depiction of Our Lady of Fatima in this article.

Here is an excerpt from the article: One of the most fantastic aspects of Our Lady of Fatima’s message is that she entrusted it to children. Here are five lesson ideas to share and discuss with the children you know.

The importance of praying the Rosary for peace.

One of Our Lady of Fatima’s central messages was to pray the Rosary every day for peace. While the particulars of world conflict have changed since 1917, we continue to live in a world full of anger, violence, and war. Children are aware of this. Depending on their ages, they may be more or less aware of the global stage, but they are certainly aware of fighting in their own families, schools, or neighborhoods. They may feel powerless to help or make a difference.

Praying the Rosary is one thing that they can do to help change lives and hearts, starting with their own. While prayer is not a magic wand and God certainly does not always answer prayer on our timetable or in the way we think best, following the instructions of Mary to pray the Rosary can only help.

Read more: Five Lessons from Fatima

Good Friday Novena Prayer

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Good Friday Novena Prayer - CatholicDoors.com

Jesus Christ, 

Son of God made Man,
crowned with thorns,
bearing a scepter of a reed,
wearing a royal cloak purpled
with Your Precious Blood,
I venerate You as the Man of Sorrows
and acknowledge You as my Lord and King!

Jesus crucified,
I firmly renounce the devil
and detest all sin
that has torn me from Your loving friendship.
I pledge my loyalty to You,
my Saviour,
and beg You to make me Your own in sincerest love.
I promise to be faithful in service to You,
and to strive to become more pleasing to you
by avoiding every sin and its occasions,
by carrying out my duties
perfectly as a good Catholic,
and by practicing virtue.

Jesus crucified,
accept the homage I wish to render You
during this novena,
as a token of my sincerest appreciation
for the sorrows and sufferings
You have willingly borne to atone for my many sins
and to prove how much You love me.

I adore You as my very God,
Who willed to become Man
in order to save me from eternal death.

I thank You as my best Friend,
Who laid down Your life
as proof of the greatest love possible.

I ask pardon for having so little thought of You,
Jesus crucified,
and for having caused Your sorrows
and sufferings by the many sins I have committed.

I pray to You,
dearest Jesus,
for all the graces I need to know You,
to love You and serve You faithfully unto death,
and to save my soul.
Give me a tender and fervent devotion
to Your Sacred Passion by which I was redeemed,
venerating You especially in Holy Mass.
Teach me how to unite sorrows and sufferings
of my life with Your own.
Finally, through all Your sorrows and pains,
through Your Sacred Heart
glowing with love for me,
broken because of my want of love for You,
through the sorrows of Mary,
your Sorrowful Mother,
I ask for this special favour:

[Mention your request here...]

With childlike trust
I abandon myself to Your holy Will
concerning my request.

***

The statue of Jesus and and cross are on the grounds of The National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Washington Township, New Jersey. The shrine is part of the World Apostolate of Fatima, USA.

Prayer for Holy Week in preparation of Good Friday

Jesus Carries His Cross - Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer for Holy Week

Jesus my Lord, let me strengthen my courage by taking on the courage of all those people who have been "centurions" for me. Many have faced disasters and hard times with great constancy. The upper hand of evil never turned them against you. They kept going. Let me be like them, Lord. No matter what the cross, let me never stop declaring you to be "truly the Son of God," the source of my hope, the reason why I will never quit on life.

(Prayer from Catholic Online)

***

Commentary by Loci B. Lenar

On Good Friday, the cross is a reminder of Jesus sacrificing His life for the salvation of sinners.

With those words in mind, sunlight creates the appearance of a cross on the above statue of Jesus. It's more than coincidence that this photo shows Jesus carrying his cross. Interestingly enough, this statue is part of the Stations of the Cross next the Holy House at The National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington, NJ. The shrine is part of the World Apostolate of Fatima, USA.

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

In two separate areas, two photos show sunlight creating similar rays of light around two statues of Jesus. Photographs were both taken in 2015 with my iPhone 6.

Visit www.Christian-Miracles.com for more faith related news.

A bleeding host in Argentina? Bishop investigates alleged Eucharistic miracle

Credit: AICA photo agency

Catholic News Agency (CNA): 'via Blog this'

Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 13, 2017 / 12:43 am (CNA/EWTN News)

A bishop in the Argentine province in Santa Fe is investigating a Eucharistic host that appeared to bleed during adoration at a drug rehabilitation home.

Bishop Luis Fernandez of the Rafaela diocese announced that an investigation will be carried out to examine what took place earlier this week, when a group of young people were in Eucharistic adoration and saw a substance in the consecrated host that appeared to be blood.

On April 11, Tuesday of Holy Week, a group of young people were praying before the Blessed Sacrament at the San Miguel drug rehabilitation home in the Guemes neighborhood, when they noticed a change in the Eucharist.

Read more: Catholic News Agency

Cross of Light Appears on Palm Sunday

Signs, Wonders, and Miracles

Palm Sunday 2017

By Loci B. Lenar

On Palm Sunday, a Cross of Light outlined with a shield appeared in the morning on my backyard fence in Mine Hill, NJ. 

Scripture 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.” Psalm 84:11

Palm Sunday is the start of Holy Week, and it's a time to reflect on the passion of Christ in preparation for Good Friday and the Resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday.

The first time this Cross of Light appeared in 2017 was on the fifth Sunday of Lent, April 2. 

For many centuries the fifth Sunday of Lent was known as Passion Sunday and the beginning of Passiontide by the Catholic Church.

Furthermore, this sun phenomena has occurred every year on my residence since 2005 during different occasions, including Lent, Holy Week, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It also appeared in September 2015 while Pope Francis was visiting the USA.

I spoke to my Spiritual director, Fr. Richard Tartaglia on Monday, April 10, and shared the news about the Cross of Light appearing at my residence. 

Fr. Richard Tartaglia - 2012

In addition, this sun phenomena has been verified by my spiritual director, Fr. Richard Tartaglia of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Denville, New Jersey. 

Fr. Richard photographed the Cross of Light on Good Friday, April 6, 2012. Moreover, Fr. Richard spoke about the Cross of Light during his homily at St. Mary's Evening Prayer Service held on April 19, 2012. 

Here's a link to view the video of Fr. Richard's homily which also includes information regarding other people that have witnessed a Cross of Light in other areas: Cross of Light Appears in New Jersey

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

I attributes this sign sent from Our Heavenly Father as result of prayers to Jesus, Our Blessed Mother, and Saint Michael the Archangel for assistance, and with times of spiritual renewal of my Christian faith, such as Lent, as well as praying for God's protection. 

Cross of Light - 2017

Additional facts can be read on these links: Cross of Light Appears During Lent and Holy Week  and Signs from Heaven

In 2008, the Gloucester County Times reported a similar story of a cross photographed by 9 year old Gwynna Crawford on Easter Sunday in Pitman, New Jersey. The cross appeared on a neighbor's house. The article indicated that Gwyanna's mother and the neighbor were unable to find the source of the sun reflection.

More information about the Gloucester County Times story with a photograph can be seen on this link: Cross Appears on Easter Sunday in Pitman, NJ

I believe the Cross of Light is a sign from God to those that have left the church: Return to the sacraments, especially reconciliation during Holy Week and to celebrate Easter.

Pope recognizes Fatima children miracle ahead of May visit to Portugal

News from Vatican Radio

Pope Francis has officially recognized the miracle attributed to the intercession of two Fatima children - Blesseds Francisco and Jacinta Marto. He also approved the canonizations of 30 Brazilian and 3 Mexican martyrs.

The Pope will visit Fatima in Portugal on 12-13 May.

During an audience on Thursday with Cardinal Angelo Amato, S.D.B., Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the Holy Father authorized the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to promulgate the following decrees:

The miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Francisco Marto, born on 11 June 1908 and died on 4 April 1919, and Blessed Jacinta Marto, born 11 March 1910 and died 20 February 1920, children of Fátima.

Read more: Fatima Miracle

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

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.

Info from Catholic Online: St. Patrick of Ireland is one of the world's most popular saints. He was born in Roman Britain and when he was fourteen or so, he was captured by Irish pirates during a raiding party and taken to Ireland as a slave to herd and tend sheep.

At the time, Ireland was a land of Druids and pagans but Patrick turned to God and wrote his memoir, The Confession. In The Confession, he wrote: "The love of God and his fear grew in me more and more, as did the faith, and my soul was rosed, so that, in a single day, I have said as many as a hundred prayers and in the night, nearly the same. I prayed in the woods and on the mountain, even before dawn. I felt no hurt from the snow or ice or rain."

Patrick's captivity lasted until he was twenty, when he escaped after having a dream from God in which he was told to leave Ireland by going to the coast. There he found some sailors who took him back to Britain and was reunited with his family.

Read more: Saint Patrick

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

www.Christian-Miracles.com

Monthly Messages from Our Lady of Medjugorje

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

March 2, 2017 Message to Mirjana Soldo

"Dear children, With motherly love I am coming to help you to have more love and that means more faith. I am coming to help you to live with love the words of my Son, so that the world would be different. Therefore, apostles of my love, I am gathering you around myself. Look at me with the heart, speak to me as to a mother about your pains, sufferings and your joys. Ask me to pray to my Son for you. My Son is merciful and just. My motherly heart would desire for you also to be like that. My motherly heart would desire that you, apostles of my love, speak of my Son and of me to all those around you with your life; so that the world would be different; that simplicity and purity would return; that faith and hope would return. Therefore, my children, pray, pray, pray with the heart, pray with love, pray with good works. Pray that everyone would come to know my Son, so that the world would change, that the world would be saved. With love live the words of my Son. Do not judge, instead love one another so that my heart could triumph. Thank you."

February 25, 2017 Message to Marija Pavolic

"Dear children! Today I am calling you to profoundly live your faith and to implore the Most High to strengthen it, so that winds and storms cannot break it. May the roots of your faith be prayer and hope in eternal life. Already now, little children, work on yourselves in this time of grace, wherein God is giving you the grace - through renunciation and the call to conversion - to be people of clear and persevering faith and hope. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Scientific Evidence of Eucharistic Miracles

News excerpt from RomeReports.com

These two authors are on a journey: For 10 years they've studied countless documents and traveled throughout Europe to show scientific evidence of Eucharistic miracles. The recently presented their findings in Poland's embassy to the Vatican.

It's a book that includes more than 40 photographs of miracles and scientific conclusions explaining what happened.

JANUSZ ROSIKON, Photographer

"On the exhibition, I show the small Host that changes into a piece of heart. That was unbelievable. When I saw that through my camera that one little piece was a Host and the rest was a human heart. We meet also with this scientist who examined it, and he told us that it's absolutely a piece of human heart. We have to believed it.”

The book's title roughly translates to: 'Secret Evidence: Investigating the Supernatural.'

Gazergorz Gorny and photographer Janusz Rosikon are very proud of the final product.

JANUSZ KOTANSKI, Ambassador of Poland to the Vatican

"We live in the 21st century and people are thinking 'well no more miracles, Jesus has done some miracles but a long time ago.' But that exhibition proves that there are still miracles and that Christ is still alive. And people they don´t have to just believe in miracles because they are also scientifically proven.”

Read more: Eucharistic Miracles

8-year-old boy prays to the Blessed Sacrament, obtains healing for his family

Photo by Adi ALGhanem

Adi Al Ghanem CC

Worldwide Catholic Network Sharing Faith Resources for those seeking Truth – Aleteia.org

Excerpt from Aleteia.org: Diego's faith in Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament changed his family's reality of abuse, alcoholism and poverty.

Patricio Hileman, the priest responsible for building Perpetual Adoration chapels all throughout Latin America, shared the touching testimony of Diego, an 8-year-old Mexican boy whose faith in the Blessed Sacrament transformed his family’s reality, marked by problems related to domestic violence, alcoholism and poverty.

The story happened in Mérida, the capital city of Yucatán, Mexico, right in the first chapel of Perpetual Adoration that the Missionaries of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament established in the city.

Father Hileman told ACI Group that the little boy heard him preaching that “those who are willing to be at vigil at dawn, Jesus will bless a hundred times more.”

“I would also say that Jesus invites his friends to the Holy Hour, and that he would also ask them: ‘Can not you watch an hour with me?’” recalled the Argentine priest.

His words made the child decide to start his vigil at 3:00 in the morning, something that naturally caught the attention of his mother, to whom the boy explained that he would do it because “I want my dad to stop drinking, and that we can no longer be poor.”

During the first week, the mother accompanied him. The second week, Diego invited his father.

“A month later, they began to participate in perpetual adoration, and the father testified that he had experienced the love of Jesus, and was healed.” Right after that, “he fell in love with his wife, during those holy hours,” Hileman said. “The father stopped drinking, and fighting with his wife, and they were able to leave poverty behind. Because of the faith of an 8-year-old child, a whole family was healed.”

Read more: Blessed Sacrament Miracle

Unfailing Prayer to Saint Anthony - Free Art Print

Unfailing Prayer To Saint Anthony

Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints

St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for his creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I ask you to obtain for me the favors that I seek (mention your request here).

The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the Saint of Miracles.

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was full of sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Infant Jesus, who loved to be held in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. 

Amen.

Visit www.Christian-Miracles.com for more prayers to Saint Anthony.

A stained glass window of this well-known saint is combined with the Unfailing Prayer to Saint Anthony as a PDF art print. 

This print is very pleasing to the eye once framed and hanging on a wall.

Visit www.Christian-Miracles.com to download a free copy of this art print (not for resale): Saint Anthony PDF

Art print and photograph by Loci B. Lenar.

Our Lady's Message of January 2, 2017

Apparitions of the Virgin Mary - The Medjugorje Web

Our Lady of Medjugorje: Message of January 2, 2017 to Mirjana Soldo

"Dear children, My Son was the source of love and light when he spoke on earth to the people of all peoples. My apostles, follow His light. This is not easy. You must be little. You must make yourselves smaller than others; with the help of faith to be filled with His love. Not a single person on earth can experience a miraculous experience without faith. I am with you. I am making myself known to you by these comings, by these words; I desire to witness to you my love and motherly care. My children, do not waste time posing questions to which you never receive an answer. At the end of your journey on earth, the Heavenly Father will give them to you. Always know that God knows everything; God sees, God loves. My most beloved Son illuminates lives, dispels darkness; and my motherly love which carries me to you is inexpressible, mysterious but real. I am expressing my feelings to you: love, understanding and motherly benevolence. Of you, my apostles, I am asking for your roses of prayer which need to be acts of love. To my motherly heart these are the dearest prayers. I offer these to my Son who was born for your sake. He looks at you and hears you. We are always close to you. This is the love which calls, unites, converts, encourages and fulfills. Therefore, my apostles, always love one another and above all, love my Son. This is the only way to salvation, to eternal life. This is my dearest prayer which fills my heart with the most beautiful scent of roses. Pray, always pray for your shepherds that they may have the strength to be the light of my Son. Thank you."

Happy New Year 2017

May 2017 begin with God's blessing of peace and prosperity to people of good will!

This is what the LORD says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, "Do not remember the things that have happened before. Do not think about the things of the past. See, I will do a new thing. It will begin happening now. Will you not know about it? I will even make a road in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."  (Isaiah 43:16, 18-19)

Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague in Urgent Need - Art Print

Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague in Urgent Need

(To be said for nine days or nine consecutive hours)

O Jesus, Who said, "Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you," through the intercession of Mary, Your most holy Mother, I knock, I seek, I ask that my prayer be answered. (Mention your request)

O Jesus, Who said, "All that you ask of the Father in My Name He will grant you," through the intercession of Mary, Your most holy Mother, I humbly and urgently ask Your Father in Your Name that my prayer be granted. (Mention your request.)

O Jesus, Who said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My word shall not pass," through the intercession of Mary, Your most holy Mother, I feel confident that my prayer will be granted. (Mention your request)

Amen

This colorful art print combines a well known Catholic novena with a stained glass window of the Infant Jesus of Prague which I photographed inside Saint Mary's Catholic Church, Myers Avenue, Denville, NJ, USA.

Visit the following link to print a PDF copy of the art print: Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague in Urgent Need 

Art print by Loci B. Lenar

www.Christian-Miracles.com

Our Lady's Christmas Message of December 25, 2016

Apparitions of Our Lady of Medjugorje - The Medjugorje Web

December 25, 2016 Message to Marija Pavlovic

"Dear children! With great joy, today I am carrying my Son Jesus to you, for Him to give you His peace. Open your hearts, little children, and be joyful that you can receive it. Heaven is with you and is fighting for peace in your hearts, in the families and in the world; and you, little children, help with your prayers for it to be so. I bless you with my Son Jesus and call you not to lose hope; and for your gaze and heart to always be directed towards Heaven and eternity. In this way, you will be open to God and to His plans. Thank you for having responded to my call."

December 25, 2016 Message to Jakov Colo

At the last daily apparition to Jakov Colo on September 12th, 1998, Our Lady told him that henceforth he would have one apparition a year, every December 25th, on Christmas Day. This is also how it was this year. The apparition began at 2:20 pm and lasted 10 minutes. 

Afterwards Jakov transmitted this message: "Dear children! Today, on this day of grace, in a special way, I am calling you to pray for peace. Children, I came here as the Queen of Peace and how many times have I called you to pray for peace. But, children, your hearts are restless. Sin is preventing you from opening yourselves completely to grace and peace which God desires to give you. To live peace, my children, is to first have peace in your hearts and to be surrendered completely to God and to His will. Do not seek peace and joy in the things of this world, because this is all passing. Long for true mercy and peace which come only from God; and only in this way will your hearts be filled with true joy; and only in this way will you be able to become witnesses of peace in this peaceless world. I am your mother and intercede before my Son for each of you. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Wishing Everyone a Blessed and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Prayer

Lord, in this holy season of prayer and song and laughter, we praise you for the great wonders you have sent us: for shining star and angel's song, for infant's cry in lowly manger. We praise you for the Word made flesh in a little Child. We behold his glory, and are bathed in its radiance.

Be with us as we sing the ironies of Christmas, the incomprehensible comprehended, the poetry made hard fact, the helpless Babe who cracks the world asunder. We kneel before you shepherds, innkeepers, wisemen. Help us to rise bigger than we are. Amen.

Our Lady of Las Vegas

By Stephen B. Whatley

"Our Lady of Las Vegas," a new (Catholic) tribute drawing in pastel, created with prayers for hope and light for the USA and the world, on December 20, 2016.

I was touched by a children's book that I bought in America last month, entitled Mary and The 50 States; which includes reference to the Church of the Guardian Angels on the Strip in Las Vegas; where an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary shines out from a stained glass window...has anyone seen it?

I have tried researching.

I liked the idea of bright spiritual light amongst the city of neon lights and shallow deals; not forgetting that Las Vegas is also a beautiful sunny desert region.
May all who view this image of the Holy Mother and Child receive gifts of light, hope and healing, wherever needed.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

About the artist: Stephen B. Whatley is an expressionist painter, published in TIME magazine, whose major commissions include architectural paintings for public institutions including the BBC, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London – where his work is permanently reproduced throughout Tower Hill Underpass at Tower Hill. He has been presented to HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh in recognition of his work.

www.stephenbwhatley.com

***

Commentary by Loci B. Lenar

Stephen B. Whatley is recognized internationally for his Catholic and Christian tributes. Mr. Whatley is a resident of England (UK). However, his paintings and prints are collected all over the world including the USA. I wish to thank Mr. Whatley for sharing his beautiful artwork on our blog and website, www.Christian-Miracles.com.

Advent is a Time to Prepare and Celebrate the Birth of Jesus on Christmas Day!

Advent Prayer

Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a wonder at the wisdom and power of Your Father and ours. Receive my prayer as part of my service of the Lord who enlists me in God's own work for justice.

Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a hunger for peace: peace in the world, peace in my home, peace in myself.

Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a joy responsive to the Father's joy. I seek His will so I can serve with gladness, singing and love.

Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me the joy and love and peace it is right to bring to the manger of my Lord. Raise in me, too, sober reverence for the God who acted there, hearty gratitude for the life begun there, and spirited resolution to serve the Father and Son.

I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, whose advent I hail.

Amen.

Our Lady's Message of November 25, 2016

Our Lady of Medjugorje: Message of November 25, 2016 to Marija Pavlovic Lunetti

“Dear children! Also today, I am calling you to return to prayer. In this time of grace, God has permitted me to lead you towards holiness and a simple life – that in little things you discover God the Creator; that you fall in love with Him; and that your life be a thanksgiving to the Most High for everything He is giving you. Little children, in love, may your life be a gift for others and God will bless you; but you, witness without interest - out of love for God. I am with you and intercede before my Son for all of you. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

Source: Medjugorje.org

Happy Thanksgiving wishes to all family, friends and visitors!

Thanksgiving Prayer

Father in Heaven, 

Creator of all 

and source of all goodness and love, 

please look kindly upon us 

and receive our heartfelt gratitude 

in this time of giving thanks.

Thank you for all the graces and blessings

You have bestowed upon us, 

spiritual and temporal:

our faith and religious heritage,

our food and shelter, 

our health, 

the loves we have for one another, 

our family and friends.

Dear Father, in Your infinite generosity, 

please grant us continued graces 

and blessing throughout the coming year.

This we ask in the Name of Jesus, 

Your Son and our Brother.

Amen.

Catholic Devotional Prayers

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Do you have a busy routine and find it difficult to pray? Everyone seems to need God's help at some point in time.

With today's technology, it's very easy to stay connected with popular Catholic prayers anytime of the day by visiting www.christian-miracles.com on your iPhone or Smartphone!

PRAYER OF CONFIDENCE TO SAINT ANTHONY

Most holy St. Anthony, Beloved Friend of Jesus,
I place myself in your heavenly care.
Be with me, especially in life’s troubles and difficulties.
Intercede before the Lord for me,
so that I may confidently know I do not face my problems alone.

I join my prayers to yours, O Great Saint,
as I ask God to give me consolation in times of sorrow,
courage when I am afraid,
and healing from all the ills that afflict me.

Obtain for me from God, Most High,
the grace to accept whatever is God’s holy will
for me and my loved ones.
Strengthen my faith so that I will never despair,
but always have hope in God’s healing presence and power in my life.

Amen.


Catholic Devotional Prayers

• The Miracle Prayer
• Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague
• Efficacious Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Prayer to Our Lady of Perpetual Help for Financial Aid
• Prayerful Healing for Children
• Unfailing Prayer to Saint Anthony
• Prayer to Saint Rita (Patroness of Impossible Causes)
• Prayer to Saint Jude
• Prayer to Saint Joseph for the Unemployed
• Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel
• Prayer to Your Guardian Angel
• Prayers of Saint Padre Pio
• Prayer for World Peace
• Prayers to St. Therese of Lisieux
• The Memorare

To read prayers, please click on the above links. Many other prayers are available by visiting www.Christian-Miracles.com at the following link: Catholic Devotional Prayers

Do you believe in modern day miracles? If so, visit www.Christian-Miracles.com and read about Miraculous Signs of Archangel Michael!

Caring for Creation by Pope Francis

Caring for Creation: Inspiring Words from Pope Francis 

Since his inaugural Mass in March 2013, Pope Francis has frequently reminded a global audience that care for creation is among his highest priorities. As a world leader with a background in science who heads a two-thousand-year-old Church, the pope is uniquely qualified to articulate a compelling vision and mission for the future. This book gathers the pope’s most important and inspiring words about our shared responsibility to protect, nurture, and care for “our common home.”

The planet is in peril, the pope is telling us, along with the well-being of the poor who depend on the earth’s natural resources. He chastises world leaders and challenges ordinary people, reminding us that our foolish actions and careless decisions are placing lives at risk. He decries our current assaults on the natural environment and warns of the consequences of climate change. Still, his message is always ultimately one of hope.

In Caring for Creation, Pope Francis’s words reveal that he believes we can move toward a new kind of conversion—a higher level of consciousness, action, and advocacy that will spark “a bold cultural revolution.”

Protect This Fragile World

"Small yet strong in the love of God, like St. Francis of Assisi, all of us, as Christians, are called to watch over and protect the fragile world in which we live, and all its people."  -Pope Francis

Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, 216
Sunday, November 24, 2013

***

About the Author

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, is the 266th and current pope of the Catholic Church, having been elected Bishop of Rome and absolute Sovereign of Vatican City.



Alicia von Stamwitz is an award-winning freelance author and longtime editor. Her essays and articles have appeared in The New York Times, St. Anthony Messenger, and other media. She is also the compiler of The Blessing of Family: Inspiring Words of Pope Francis.

***

Commentary

Caring for Creation is a bold collection of powerful words by Pope Francis that leads to contemplation of humanity's purpose in protecting our world's ecology.

Pope Francis reminds us that nations and people have a calling to preserve our world from environmental ruin.

In the eye of God, Our Creator, there is no excuse to ignore preservation of lakes, rivers, oceans, land and the air we breathe. The consequence of mismanagement affects all the inhabitants of our world.

The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he has founded it on the seas, and established it on the rivers. Psalm 24:1-2, (NRSVCE)

As caretakers of planet earth, Our Heavenly Father entrusts us to preserve this world for future generations and to honor all His creation.

-Loci B. Lenar

Feast of the Guardian Angels

The Catholic church celebrates the Feast of the Guardian Angels on October 2nd.

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. (Psalm 91:11-12)

Prayer to Your Guardian Angel

Angel of God,
my guardian dear,
To whom God's love
commits me here,
Ever this day,
be at my side,
To light and guard,
Rule and guide.
Amen.

Guardian Angel Prayer: http://www.christian-miracles.com/guardianangelprayer.htm

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar
www.Christian-Miracles.com

The Miracle of Our Lady of Knock

A new Christian Tribute by international artist Stephen B. Whatley

Excerpt from the website of the artist: Our Lady of Knock - a tribute to the miraculous vision of The Blessed Virgin Mary, St Joseph, St John The Evangelist and The Lamb of God that appeared to villagers in Knock, Ireland on this day, 21 August, in 1879. The painting was created by expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley, with prayers, on 17 August, the date now assigned Feast Day by The Catholic Church.

Blessings of miraculous healing and strength wherever necessary - & prayers for world peace at this poignant time of the 15th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks in New York City, which killed 2,977 victims, and caused worldwide grief.

More about Our Lady of Knock:

http://www.marypages.com/Knock.htm

Oil on Canvas, 2016
20" x 30" / 61 x 76 cm
http://www.stephenbwhatley.com/

Did you know Mother Teresa experienced visions of Jesus?

Mother Teresa - Licensed Under Creative Commons Attribution 2.5

Vatican City, Aug 27, 2016 (Excerpt from CNA/EWTN News)

Even her friend of more than 30 years, Father Sebastian Vazhakala, did not know Mother Teresa had conversations with and visions of Jesus before forming the Missionaries of Charity. It wasn't until after her death, for the vast majority of people, that this part of Mother Teresa's spiritual life was uncovered.

“It was a big discovery,” Missionary of Charity priest, Fr. Vazhakala told CNA.   When Mother Teresa's cause for canonization was opened, just two years after her death in 1997, documents were found in the archives of the Jesuits in Calcutta, with the spiritual director and another of Mother Teresa's close priest friends, and in the office of the bishop, containing her accounts of the communications.

Fr. Vazhakala, who co-founded the contemplative branch of the Missionaries of Charity alongside Mother Teresa, said he has a document handwritten by Mother Teresa where she discusses what Jesus spoke to her directly during the time of the locutions and visions.

Read more: Mother Teresa

Our Lady's Message of August 25th to Marija

Our Lady of Medjugorje: Message of August 25, 2016 to Marija

“Dear children! Today I desire to share Heavenly joy with you. You, little children, open the door of your heart so that hope, peace and love, which only God gives, may grow in your heart. Little children, you are too bound to the earth and earthly things, that is why, Satan is rolling you like the wind rolls the waves of the sea. Therefore, may the chain of your life be prayer with the heart and Adoration of my Son Jesus. Give over your future to Him so that, in Him, you may be joy and an example with your lives to others. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

Our Lady of France

A painting of sympathy, peace and compassion by international artist Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr.com

The Holy Mother and Infant Christ, a new tribute by expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley who felt compelled to create on this day, in prayers of sympathy and for peace and compassion for the nation of France, in the aftermath of yesterday's tragic loss of life, through the insanity of terrorism during Bastille Day celebrations in Nice.

 Choosing to restrict his colours in this memorial tribute drawing in pastel, to France's national colours of blue, white and red, the artist also observed a photograph of the 1860s statue of Our Lady of France - Notre Dame de France - by Jean-Marie Bienaimé Bonnassieux (1810-1892), that stands on a hill in Le Puy-en-Velayin.

A visual prayer in solidarity with France and with hope for world peace. Vive La France! Peace.
www.stephenbwhatley.com

Mr. Whatley's Catholic tributes are displayed on the website of www.Christian-Miracles.com

 

Our Lady of Orlando

Our Lady of Orlando by artist Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Excerpt from the website of international artist Stephen B. Whatley:

A tribute in pastel created with compassion and prayers by expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley, for all those murdered in Orlando, Florida in the early hours of June 12 and their loved ones - to represent the eternal and all encompassing love, mercy, compassion, hope  and peace that Christ and His Holy Mother have and offer for all communities in the world.

The artist often feels a 'Divine push' - even urgency - to make such works of prayer; and aside from this tragedy perpetrated by hate, ignorance and insanity, an inspiration in making this work was a postcard of a photograph of a statue of Mary, Queen of The Universe Shrine in Orlando, Florida, touchingly sent to him by his beloved young God-daughter Marianna.

This work of art was also created on the Feast day of St Anthony - Saint of A Thousand Miracles - which the world sorely needs.

Peace: Love will overcome hate - Light out of Darkness.

www.stephenbwhatley.com

Our Lady's Message of May 25, 2016 to Marija

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Monthly Message of May 25, 2016

“Dear children! My presence is a gift from God for all of you and an encouragement for conversion. Satan is strong and wants to put disorder and unrest in your hearts and thoughts. Therefore, you, little children, pray so that the Holy Spirit may lead you on the real way of joy and peace. I am with you and intercede before my Son for you. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

That time Jesus appeared in the sky of Mexico

Excerpt from Catholic News Agency (CNA)

It's a major miracle that you've probably never heard of.

On Sunday, Oct. 3, 1847, more than 2,000 people in Ocotlán, Mexico saw a perfect image of Jesus Christ crucified that appeared in the sky for more than 30 minutes.

Approved by the Archdiocese of Guadalajara in 1911, the phenomenon is known as the “Miracle of Ocotlán” and took place one day before an earthquake that killed 40 and left the town in Jalisco State in ruins.

Before the start of Mass at the cemetery of the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception – presided over by the parochial vicar, Father Julián Navarro – two white clouds joined together in the northwest sky, where there appeared the image of Christ.

Those present and in nearby towns were deeply moved, made acts of contrition, and cried out begging, “Lord, have mercy!” This apparition of Christ was called “the Lord of Mercy” and in his honor, in September 1875, a new parish church was blessed, consecrated and dedicated to him.

Also among the faithful who witnessed the miracle were Father Julián Martín del Campo, pastor of the community, and  Antonio Jiménez, the town's mayor. Both of them sent letters to their respective superiors telling what had happened.

Read more: CNA

Our Lady's Message of May 2, 2016 to Mirjana

  
The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Message from Our Lady of Medjugorje to Mirjana

"Dear children, my motherly heart desires your true conversion and a firm faith so that you may be able to spread love and peace to all those who surround you. But, my children, do not forget: each of you is a unique world before the Heavenly Father. Therefore, permit the continuous working of the Holy Spirit to work on you. Be my spiritually pure children. In spirituality is beauty. Everything that is spiritual is alive and very beautiful. Do not forget that in the Eucharist, which is the heart of faith, my Son is always with you. He comes to you and breaks bread with you; because, my children, for your sake He died, He resurrected and is coming anew. These words of mine are familiar to you because they are the truth, and the truth does not change. It is only that many of my children have forgotten it. My children, my words are neither old nor new, they are eternal. Therefore, I invite you, my children, to observe well the signs of the times, to 'gather the shattered crosses' and to be apostles of the revelation. Thank you."

Jesus, Lord of Miracles

New Catholic Tribute by International Artist Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

News from the artists' website: A new 2016 tribute to the miracles of Jesus, possible through complete Trust in the Lord and faith, created by artist Stephen B. Whatley on 30 April. This was a profound date in the artist's life in 1998 when he experienced a miracle that saved the lives of himself and a friend when in potentially mortal danger. His prayer was simply "Please help us God".

Since 2000, Whatley - a convert to Catholicism - has felt what he describes as a "divine push" to create Christian tributes of faith, love and hope - through prayer. His exhibition "Paintings of Prayer" was on show in Westminster Cathedral, London in 2013.

The work of Stephen B. Whatley has been published in TIME, is in collections worldwide and public collections including The Royal Collection of Queen Elizabeth II and BBC Heritage - while his series of 30 paintings commissioned by the Tower of London are permanently reproduced throughout the walkway outside Tower Hill Station, leading to the Tower.

Today is The Ascension of Our Lord: May there be miracles of healing, reconciliation, peace and prosperity.

Charcoal and pastel on paper.
23.4 x 16.5in/59 x 42cm
www.stephenbwhatley.com

More beautiful artwork by Stephen B. Whatley can be seen on the website of www.Christian-Miracles.com.

Divine image appears in mom-to-be’s ultrasound picture

Bill Alecia Fülkerson/via Facebook

Excerpt of story from NY Daily News

An Indiana woman’s prenatal checkup turned out to be a divine experience.

Aley Meyer’s ultrasound photo showed not only her baby boy, but also an image of what appears to be Jesus on the cross.

"We took a picture of it and blew it up on my phone to get a closer look and it is so much detail,” she told WFIE-TV. “You can see the hair and his legs crossed and everything.”

The Evansville mom-to-be did not even notice the cross-like figure at first, but once her mother shared the ultrasound photo on Facebook, the comments went crazy.

Baby Easton is due in June and Meyer finds it to be a sign that all will be right with the birth.

Read more: Divine Image