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.

 

‘Heaven Changes Everything’: How belief impacted a family

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Colton Burpo's New Book about Heaven - TODAY.com

The following excerpt is from Today.com:

Two years after the release of the best-selling book, “Heaven Is for Real,” telling the story of Colton Burpo’s near-death experience at age 4, Colton, his dad, Todd, and his mom, Sonja, speak about their second book, a devotional called “Heaven Changes Everything."

The story of Todd and Sonja Burpo's son Colton making a trip to heaven and back had an enormous impact on their lives. Their son's story came at a time when things were tough and the parents discovered that beliving in heaven can make all the difference.

Read More: Heaven Changes Everything

St. Bonaventure and St. Thomas Aquinas

Stained Glass Window - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The following excerpt is from Catholic Online:

St. Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church (Feast day-July 15)

 

St. Bonaventure (Giovanni di Fidanza), known as "the seraphic doctor," was born at Bagnorea in Tuscany, in 1221. He received the name of Bonaventure in consequence of an exclamation of St. Francis of Assisi, when, in response to the pleading of the child's mother, the saint prayed for John's recovery from a dangerous illness, and, foreseeing the future greatness of the little John, cried out "O Buona ventura"-O good fortune!

 

At the age of twenty-two St. Bonaventure entered the Franciscan Order. Having made his vows, he was sent to Paris to complete his studies under the celebrated doctor Alexander of Hales, an Englishman and a Franciscan. After the latter's death he continued his course under his successor, John of Rochelle. In Paris he became the intimate friend of the great St. Thomas Aquinas. He received the degree of Doctor, together with St. Thomas Aquinas, ceding to his friend against the latter's inclination, the honor of having it first conferred upon him. Like St. Thomas Aquinas, he enjoyed the friendship of the holy King, St. Louis.

 

At the age of thirty-five he was chosen General of his Order and restored a perfect calm where peace had been disturbed by internal dissensions. He did much for his Order and composed The Life of St. Francis . He also assisted at the translation of the relics of St. Anthony of Padua. He was nominated Archbishop of York by Pope Clement IV, but he begged not to be forced to accept that dignity. Gregory X obliged him to take upon himself a greater one, that of Cardinal and Bishop of Albano, one of the six suffragan Sees of Rome. Before his death he abdicated his office of General of the Franciscan Order. He died while he was assisting at the Second Council of Lyons, on July 15, 1274.

 

*** 

 

The stained glass window of St. Bonaventure and St. Thomas Aquinas can be seen inside St. Bonaventure Church, 174 Ramsey Street, Paterson, NJ.

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Photograph Copyright 2012 Loci B. Lenar

What can St. Hildegard of Bingen teach us? A look at the life of this future Doctor of the Church

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

October 7th marks the day, St. Hildegard of Bingen will be declared a Doctor of the Catholic Church. The German nun was a  music composer, writer and theologian, who made a mark by talking about her religious visions.

Back in the 12th century, her visions were not always taken seriously.  Eventually she decided to make them public only after getting approval from Pope Eugene III.

They dealt with Redemption, God, humanity, the Church and also with Creation. In fact, one of the drawings that reflects this, shows the relationship between the universe and humans. It's an image that's quite similar to that of Leonardo da Vinci.

Read More: St. Hildegard of Bingen

Review of Motion Picture Regarding this Visionary: Vision: From the Life of Hildegard von Bingen

St. Angela Merici

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The following excerpt regarding the life of St. Angela Merici is from the Catholic Encyclopedia:

Foundress of the Ursulines, born 21 March, 1474, at Desenzano, a small town on the southwestern shore of Lake Garda in Lombardy; died 27 January, 1540, at Brescia.

She was left an orphan at the age of ten and together with her elder sister came to the home of her uncle at the neighbouring town of Salo where they led an angelic life. When her sister met with a sudden death, without being able to receive the last sacraments, young Angela was much distressed. She became a tertiary of St. Francis and greatly increased her prayers and for the repose of her sister's soul. In her anguish and pious simplicity she prayed God to reveal to her the condition of her deceased sister. It is said that by a vision she was satisfied her sister was in the company of the saints in heaven.

In 1524, while making a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, she became suddenly blind when she was on the island of Crete, but continued her journey to the Holy Places and was cured on her return while praying before a crucifix at the same place where she was struck with blindness a few weeks before. When, in the jubilee year 1525, she had come to Rome to gain the indulgences, Pope Clement VII, who had heard of her great holiness and her extraordinary success as a religious teacher of young girls, invited her to remain in Rome; but Angela, who shunned publicity, returned to Brescia. Finally, on the 25th of November, 1535, Angela chose twelve virgins and laid the foundation of the order of the Ursulines in a small house near the Church of St. Afra in Brescia. Having been five years superior of the newly-founded order, she died.

Her body lies buried in the Church of St. Afra at Brescia. She was beatified in 1768, by Clement XIII, and canonized in 1807, by Pius VII.

The stained glass window can be seen inside St. Bonaventure Church, 174 Ramsey Street, Paterson, NJ.

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Photograph Copyright 2012 Loci B. Lenar

Vision Brings Godless Man to Faith

The following video is from CBN TV - Video

Aaron Enous had a tough childhood and was uncertain if God even existed until he had a vision of Jesus that changed everything.

Music Visions: Producing videos that promote values

Music Visions: Brand New Day

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

This song is titled 'Brand New Day.' It tells the story of a young woman who just ended a relationship with her boyfriend. Despite the pain of the break up, she's able to see beyond the suffering, thanks to the support of her family.

The video of the singer Roseanna was made in London and produced by MUSIC VISIONS, a nonprofit organization that produces music videos that promote a culture of life.

BRAND NEW DAY - Written and composed by Steve Foster
Performed by Roseanna
Featuring Roseanna, Sam Burn
Produced by Mark von Riedemann
Directed by Manuel de Teffé
Music Video sponsored by Kirche in Not - Aid to the Church in Need
in cooperation with Catholic Radio and Television Network

Our Lady's Monthly Message to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

Cross of Light - Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Message of October 2, 2012 to Mirjana:

"Dear children; I am calling you and am coming among you because I need you. I need apostles with a pure heart. I am praying, and you should also pray, that the Holy Spirit may enable and lead you, that He may illuminate you and fill you with love and humility. Pray that He may fill you with grace and mercy. Only then will you understand me, my children. Only then will you understand my pain because of those who have not come to know the love of God. Then you will be able to help me. You will be my light-bearers of God’s love. You will illuminate the way for those who have been given eyes but do not want to see. I desire for all of my children to see my Son. I desire for all of my children to experience His Kingdom. Again I call you and implore you to pray for those whom my Son has called. Thank you."

Feast of the Archangels, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The following Archangel Prayers are posted on the website of the Saint Michael Center

The Feast of the Archangels is celebrated on September 29

Saint Michael the Archangel

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the hour of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil, may God restrain him we humbly pray, and do thou oh Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast into hell satan and all the evil spirits that roam through the world , seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Saint Michael the Archangel, please protect us from the evil one and help us to obtain the grace to do the Will of God.

Saint Gabriel the Archangel

Please announce the Holy Word of God to us, write it in our hearts, help us to remember it and to put it into practice.

Saint Raphael the Archangel

Fill me with the Love of God, with the ardent flame of Love of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, with the Love of all the angels and saints.

My Holy Guardian Angel

Protect me and guide me, open the way for me to do the Will of God in every action, remind me to praise God and to reject temptations

Angels and Archangels (in general)

O God, who in Thine ineffable Providence, hast sent Thy Holy Angels to watch over us: grant, we humbly pray, that we may always be defended by their protection and may rejoice in their fellowship forever. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God our Father, in a wonderful way You guide the work of angels and men. May those who serve You constantly in heaven keep our lives safe from all harm here on earth. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

Supported by the intercession of blessed Michael, Thine Archangel, we humbly beseech Thee, O Lord, that the service we pay with our lips, we may lay hold of with our minds. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who lives and reigns with Thee in the unity of the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen.

O God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we call upon your Holy Name, and as supplicants we implore your clemency, that by the intercession of Blessed Mary, ever Virgin Immaculate and our Mother, and of the glorious Archangel St Michael, You would deign to help us against Satan and all other unclean spirits, who roam about the world for the injury of the human race and the ruin of souls. Amen.

St Gabriel the Archangel

O God, who from among all the Angels did choose the Archangel Gabriel to announce the Mystery of Thine Incarnation: mercifully grant that we who keep his feast on earth may feel the effect of his patronage in heaven. Who lives and reigns, with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen

O Blessed Archangel Gabriel, we beseech you, intercede for us at the throne of divine Mercy in our present necessities, that as you did announce to Mary the mystery of the Incarnation, so through your prayers and patronage in heaven we may obtain the benefits of the same, and sing the praise of God forever in the land of the living. Amen.

Prayer to St. Raphael the Archangel

O glorious Archangel, St Raphael, great Prince of the heavenly court, illustrious for your gifts of wisdom and grace, guide of those who journey by land or sea, consoler of the afflicted, and refuge of sinners: I beg you to assist me in all my needs and in all the sufferings of this life, as once you did help the young Tobias on his travels. And because you are the 'Medicine of God,' I humbly ask you to heal the many infirmities of my soul, and the ills which afflict my body, if it be for my greater good. I especially ask of you an angelic purity, which may fit me to be the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Be pleased, O Lord God, to send to our aid St Raphael the Archangel: and may he, who, we believe, stands forever before the throne of Your Majesty, offer unto You our humble petitions to be blessed by You. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Monthly Message to Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

 The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's September 25, 2012 Message to Marija:

"Dear children! When in nature you look at the richness of the colors which the Most High gives to you, open your heart and pray with gratitude for all the good that you have and say: ‘I am here created for eternity’ – and yearn for heavenly things because God loves you with immeasurable love. This is why He also gave me to you to tell you: ‘Only in God is your peace and hope, dear children’. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Pope in Beirut: Those who wish to build peace must cease to see in the other an evil to be eliminated

The video and following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

Continuing his call for peace, the Pope led Sunday's Angelus by calling for the violence to stop in the Middle East, especially in Syria where thousands have been killed.  

“Why so much horror? Why so many dead? I appeal to the international community!," said the Pope in Beirut.   

Benedict XVI

“Why so much horror? Why so many dead? I appeal to the international community! I appeal to the Arab countries that, as brothers, they might propose workable solutions respecting the dignity, the rights and the religion of every human person!”

Benedict XVI called on Our Lady of Lebanon, to intercede and bring peace, but part of that process, said the Pope, includes eliminating hatred and enemies. 

Benedict XVI

“Those who wish to build peace must cease to see in the other an evil to be eliminated. It is not easy to see in the other a person to be respected and loved, and yet this is necessary if peace is to be built, if fraternity is desired.”

With roughly 300,000 people from across the Middle East, the Pope also mourned for the thousands of civilians who have lost their lives in violent conflicts in the region. 

Benedict XVI

“Sadly, the din of weapons continues to make itself heard, along with the cry of the widow and the orphan. Violence and hatred invade people’s lives, and the first victims are women and children.”

Toward the end of the Angelus, the Pope also called on local Patriarchs and bishops to do their part in the peace building process, so that all people of all origins and religious convictions are respected. 

‘I am a miracle’: Woman tells story of accident, recovery

The following excerpt is from The Advocate — Baton Rouge, LA

Pamela Avellanosa, who made a personal appearance in a Baton Rouge church Saturday, is officially declared by the Roman Catholic Church to be a miracle.

When she was 14 years old, she suffered a head injury in a bicycle accident on Jan. 2, 1995, and slipped into a coma.

Physicians told her family that even if she survived emergency surgery, she’d spend the rest of her life in a vegetative state.

But her grandmother and her aunt and the “Pink Sisters” of Baguio City, Philippines, never stopped praying for a miraculous recovery. First, she survived the surgery. After two weeks, she regained consciousness and eventually fully recovered.

“I am a miracle,” Avellanosa, now 31, declared to about 200 people gathered in the sanctuary of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church after Saturday morning’s Mass. “If you do not believe in God, then you should not believe I am standing here in front of you.”

“God is good...” she asserted to members of the congregation, who enthusiastically responded, “... all the time!”

“I was riding my bicycle down a steep hill going very fast, and I did a somersault over the handlebars and hit my head,” she said.

Avellanosa related how, after one trip to a hospital where doctors told her aunt she’d be fine, she became violently ill upon returning home and was taken to another hospital where she lapsed into a coma.

“I was brain-dead for two to three hours,” Avellanosa said. “I saw a bright light and looked down to see myself lying on the bed. I went toward the light but an angel told me to go back. I slept for two weeks, a deep, restful sleep.”

The Pink Sisters, so named because they wear pink habits, daily prayed a novena, also called an intercession, to their founder, St. Arnold Janssen (1873-1909), asking God to heal her.

Avellanosa awoke from her coma on Jan. 15, the Feast Day of St. Arnold. Her recovery sparked an effort by the Pink Sisters and other Philippine Catholic Church officials to have Avellanosa’s case declared a miracle.

The full name of the Pink Sisters’ order is the Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration. Members of the order take turns praying 24 hours a day, seven days a week, said St. Paul’s pastor, the Rev. Vincent Alexius.

Read More: Pamela Avellanosa

Pope calls for end to sending arms to Syria

The video and following excerpt is from RomeReports.com

In a meeting with journalists during the flight to Lebanon, Benedict XVI called for “an end to the importation of arms to Syria” to help stop the conflict. He suggested that “ideas of peace” be imported rather than weapons and begin an acceptance of differences.

In light of the recent tensions from religious conflict in the Middle East, the Pope explained that religions must display mutual respect for each other and for mankind.

Our Lady of Altagracia

By Stephen B. Whatley

Our Lady of Altagracia by Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

Today, September 8th, is the Feast Day of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God. There are numerous devotions to Mary through the ages and throughout the world. Our Lady of Altagracia a devotion originating in the 16th century translates beautifully from the Spanish into Our Lady of High Grace. She is the Patron Saint of the Dominican Republic.

September 5th marked the anniversary of my baptism when just over a month old in 1965 - and on that day this year I turned the pages of the Illustrated Book of Mary (William J Hirten Co. 2010) - a gift from a loved one - and discovered Our Lady of Altagracia; and through prayers of Hail Mary this tribute drawing evolved.

From Mary Day By Day (1987 Catholic Book Publishing Corp., NY) in September 5th entry: "Mary is the echo of God. If we say 'Mary', she will answer 'God'. That is why union with her is always followed by union with God".

Peace & blessings of healing and relief on this special day.

Charcoal on paper,
16.5 x 11.5in

More Christian Artwork: Stephen B. Whatley

Charles Goodman Healed of ALS

A 2-Year Death Sentence That Never Came - CBN TV - Video

The following excerpt is from CBN.com:

Charles Goodman suffered with Lou Gehrig's disease for years, but one day he experienced a miraculous healing.  Eleven years later, Charles is still free from ALS.

Loci B. Lenar to Share Personal Testimony Regarding Signs of Archangel Michael at Prayer Service in New Jersey

Mr. Lenar

Mr. Lenar will speak at St. Mary’s Catholic Church during its evening prayer service scheduled for 7:30 PM on Thursday, September 20, 2012. 

The service will focus on Michaelmas, the Feast of St. Michael and the Archangels. 

The Catholic Church celebrates this feast day on September 29 each year.

St. Mary’s prayer service is held every third Thursday of each month with Fr. Richard Tartaglia. The Catholic Church is located on 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, NJ.  Fr. Martin Glynn is the head pastor of St. Mary’s.

Mr. Lenar will share his personal testimony regarding a photograph he took of a statue of Archangel Michael which shows a trail of colorful rainbows appearing behind the figure. The icon sits in front of a display that is designed to appear as a glass window in St. Michael’s Church, Netcong, New Jersey.  

While visiting the church, Mr. Lenar captured the rainbow phenomena by photographing the statue without using the camera’s flash. “Church lights were turned off, so the only inflowing light was from some nearby windows.   While examining the photograph closely, there is a distinct shadow by the arms of the statue which indicates light from the rainbow is creating an interesting phenomena.  However, photographing the statue with the camera flash on, the rainbow is diffused because of added light," says Mr. Lenar.

St. Michael's Church - Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Mr. Lenar adds, “God works in mysterious ways to affirm His presence through angels. Our Lord is indeed a divine artist and confirms His existence through remarkable signs.”

“After the photographing the statue, I shared the images directly as captured on the camera's memory card with my spiritual advisor, Father Richard Tartaglia. The original digital images were transferred onto a CD for church archives,” says Mr. Lenar.

Mr. Lenar adds, “There is significance to the photograph and its meaning in the global community. Unfortunately, violence seemingly has become a frequent occurrence around the world.  One cannot avoid noticing while watching television programs, that there are recurring stories of acts of violence reported on network news shows. Therefore the question must be asked: Is our world losing control?”

Mr. Lenar says the following scripture appears to answer the question: “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered."  (Daniel 12:1)

“St. Michael the Archangel is the protector of God’s people and church,” says Mr. Lenar.  He believes and says that through prayerful discernment, "Our Lord Jesus is calling for all to join together and 'pray for divine protection' in order to mitigate violence throughout the world. It’s now more important than ever before, to pray for our nation and families, especially for people who are subjected to malevolent behavior on a daily bases. Our world is in dire need of healing and peace - with prayer everything is possible.”  

Mr. Lenar also says that the Catholic Church teaches and recognizes that we all have guardian angels to protect and guide us during our lifetime.  He suggests reciting the intercessory Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel for God’s protection. 

Additional information about Mr. Lenar’s testimony including photographs of the Statue of Archangel Michael can be seen on the following link: http://www.christian-miracles.com/signsofstmichael.htm

Mr. Lenar has shared his spiritual journey of faith several times as a guest on the Catholic program, Sacred Treasures, hosted by Kathie Duggan on Radio Maria.  On May 7th of this year, Fr. Richard Tartaglia and Loci B. Lenar were both interviewed on Radio Maria regarding a cross of light that appeared on Mr. Lenar’s residence during Lent and Good Friday.  Fr. Tartaglia validated the sign by photographing the cross of light that was visible on Mr. Lenar’s fence.

In 2008, Mr. Lenar founded and launched www.Christian-Miracles.com as a tool of evangelization in order to reach out with the gospels and publicize news of miracles.  Since its inception, the site has grown globally with visitors coming from the United States, Canada, UK, India, United Arab Emirates and many other countries. 

The website receives prayer requests on a regular bases, which are prayed for daily and on Monday mornings during Holy Hour Adoration including at the monthly prayer service held at St. Mary’s Church with Fr. Richard Tartaglia. Prayer requests can be submitted to the following link: PrayerRequest@Christian-Miracles.com

For those interested in the topic of angels, please join Fr. Richard Tartaglia and Mr. Lenar at St. Mary’s Catholic Church during its prayer service scheduled for Thursday, September 20, 2012 at 7:30 PM.

For directions to St. Mary’s Church, please visit the following link: http://www.stmarys-denville.org/directions.htm

For additional information, please visit www.Christian-Miracles.com.

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Pope urges laity to share Gospel with a world in darkness

The following excerpt is from the Catholic News Agency (CNA):

Pope Benedict XVI told a group of lay people this week that the world needs their courageous and credible testimony to bring the hope of the Gospel to all areas of society.

In a message sent to the International Forum of Catholic Action in Iasi, Romania, the Pope reflected on the laity's responsibility to the Church and society, reported Vatican daily L’Osservatore Romano.

“Co-responsibility demands a change in mentality, in particularly, about the role of the laity in the Church, who are considered not as ‘collaborators’ with the clergy, but as persons truly ‘co-responsible’ for being and acting of the Church,” he said.

The world needs a “a mature and committed laity,” which “can make its own specific contribution to the ecclesial mission with respect for the ministries and tasks that each one has in the life of the Church and always in cordial communion with the bishops.”

The laity's role is of fundamental importance, especially “in this phase of history,” the Pope stressed, to be interpreted “in the light of the Church’s social Magisterium.”

Lay men and women should also aim to “grow, with the whole Church,” he noted, “in the co-responsibility of offering humanity a future of hope and with the courage to formulate demanding proposals.”

Read more: Share Gospels

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Monthly Message to Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Message of August 25, 2012 to Marija

"Dear children! Also today, with hope in the heart, I am praying for you and am thanking the Most High for every one of you who lives my messages with the heart. Give thanks to God's love that I can love and lead each of you through my Immaculate Heart also toward conversion. Open your hearts and decide for holiness, and hope will give birth to joy in your hearts. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Miracle or medicine? A throat cancer patient's life-changing encounter

The following excerpt is by Ron Dzwonkowski | Detroit Free Press | freep.com

Frank Acosta had a lot on his mind, none of it good, when he pulled into a Costco store just outside Toronto on Nov. 10, 2010.

Ten days earlier, Acosta had been diagnosed with advanced throat cancer. He was facing weeks of grueling treatments and an uncertain outcome. A media broker, Acosta had made the trip to Canada to see one of his largest customers "to let them know what was going to be going on with me."

The Costco in Scarborough, Ontario, was a regular stop for him. He'd have a hot dog before getting on Highway 401 for the drive back home to Farmington Hills.

There weren't many people around when Acosta took some extra napkins and went to a table to slather his snack with the usual combination of ketchup and mustard. So he was a little surprised when a man approached and asked to sit down.

Acosta remembers the guy as bearded, about 5-foot-7, wearing a short-sleeve shirt on an unusually warm November day.

"Can I have a napkin?" the man asked.

"I gave him one," Acosta said. "It had two mustard spots on it."

"Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?" was the next question. Acosta, who describes himself as "a good Catholic," was taken aback. But after a moment he said yes, he did.

The man took out a pen and began printing words on the napkin. He handed it back to Acosta.

"Say this," he said, looking the traveler in the eye, "and you will be healed."

Acosta, who had no outward signs of his illness, glanced at the napkin and "really, because I didn't want to be rude," folded it into his pocket. The man left. Acosta drove home.

"I couldn't make sense of it," he said of the brief encounter. But he read the napkin. It was a prayer that began with "Jesus loves you ..." Acosta put it in his nightstand.

"I had seen a lawyer; I was getting my affairs in order, preparing for the worst," said Acosta, an Oklahoma native who has lived in the Detroit area since the early 1980s. "I was ready to give up everything I had just to stay alive. ..."

"I cried my guts out," he said. "I had been a good man. I didn't smoke or drink. Why was this happening to me? Why was I being punished?"

Some weeks later, ravaged by three rounds of radiation and chemotherapy and reduced to a liquid diet when he had any appetite at all, Acosta became violently ill one night, worse than ever. He took out the napkin and read it again, as he had several times during his ordeal.

"I sat on the edge of the bed and I asked the Lord to heal me," he said. Then he vomited.

"Something came up, came out, I don't know; it smelled terrible," he said. "I had my hand on the (toilet) handle, and I immediately flushed it away."

Five days later, Acosta reported as scheduled for tests and treatment at the University of Michigan hospital.

He can still hear the sweet words of Dr. Francis Worden, a medical oncologist, who examined him: "Frank, I don't think you have cancer anymore."

"Wow," he said. "That's unbelievable."

Read More: Frank Acosta

Feast Day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Stephen B. Whatley

A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head.  Revelation 12:1

The Feast Day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated by the Catholic Church on August 15. This colorful abstract oil painting is by Stephen B. Whatley. This talented artist is internationally recognized for his Christian Tributes.

Virgin Mary 'crosses the finish line' with Olympic gold runner

The following excerpt is from the Catholic News Agency (CNA)

Ethiopian athlete Meseret Defar provided one of the most emotional moments of the London 2012 Summer Olympic Games when she crossed the finish line in the 5000 meter race to win the gold.

She then pulled a picture of the Virgin Mary out from under her jersey, showed it to the cameras and held it up to her face in deep prayer.

An Orthodox Christian, Defar entrusted her race to God with the sign of the cross and reached the finish line in 15:04:24, beating her fellow Ethiopian rival Tirunesh Dibaba, who was the favorite to win.

A teary-eyed Defar proudly showed the picture of the Virgin Mary with the Baby Jesus that she carried with her for the entire race.

Throughout the event, Defar kept pace with three other Ethiopian runners and three from Kenya, until speeding past them on the homestretch to win gold.

The silver medal went to Vivian Cheruiyot of Kenya and the bronze to Dibaba.

Read more: Meseret Defar

Kerrville cross a site of miracles?

Kerrville Cross - Kens5.com News

'You can feel the presence of God': Kerrville cross site of miracles? | kens5.com San Antonio

The photo and following excerpt is from Kens5.com/news:

By Joe Conger

SAN ANTONIO – Visitors to a Kerrville monument claim spiritual phenomena are manifesting at the prayer site.

“You can feel the presence of God here. And that’s just an added bonus,” said Pat Jordan, a long-time contributor to the Coming King Prayer Garden.

The bonuses are the images visitors are capturing on film and in snapshots: orbs surrounding the monument like soap bubbles.

In another photo taken by Ron Hicks, there is an image of a blurry figure many believe is an angel appearing at the foot of the cross. Hicks said there was no one near the cross on the April evening when he took the photo.

Like many believers, Hicks said the manifestations show that God is at work here.

“Is there things manifesting? Yeah. But a lot of it is physical healing. A lot of it is emotional healing. Peace itself,” said Bobby Dendy.

Read more: Kerrville Cross

St. Francis Receiving the Stigmata

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The following excerpt regarding the stained glass window of St. Francis is written by Fr. Daniel Grigassy, O.F.M. and can be found in the booklet, Franciscan Saints Surround Us, published by St. Bonaventure Church, 174 Ramsey Street, Paterson, NJ:

The image of St. Francis shows him receiving the Stigmata, the five brand marks of Christ on his hands, feet, and side.  From the beginning of his conversion, he had a great devotion to Christ crucified.  He spent most of his life preaching the glories of the cross and the joyful hope of the Resurrection. 

St. Bonaventure tells us that Francis had begun a fast of forty days in honor of the Archangel Michael whose feast is on September 29.  One morning near September 14, the feast of the exaltation of the Cross, as he was in deep contemplation of the mysteries of the cross, he saw what appeared as a seraph with six bright wings brilliant as fire coming down from heaven.  The figure was not only winged but also crucified.  Francis was thrilled at the sight, his heart filled with joy and pain, both at the same time.  This was truly Christ graciously and intimately appearing before him. St. Bonaventure writes: "...the awe-inspiring vision of Christ nailed to the cross aroused in his soul a joy of compassionate love."

After the vision vanished and his encounter with Christ ended, Francis was internally "Aglow with seraphic love in his soul."  Yet externally, marks like those of the Crucified were left onn his body: "The figures of the nails appeared immediately on his hand and feet.  His right side too showed a blood-red wound as if it had been pierced by a lance, and blood flowed frequently from it."

Bonaventure concludes: "Francis came down from the mountain a new man...bearing in his body the image of the Crucified...fashioned in his members by the hand of the living God."

The Stigmata represents the visible conformity to Christ and remains the deepest witness of Francis's intense love for the Passion of Christ.

(The stained glass window of St. Francis can be seen inside St. Bonaventure Church, Paterson, NJ. The window was photographed on August 4, 2012 while attending Mass.   -Loci B. Lenar)

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50 artists from Progetto Arte Poli give facelift to new churches

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

For 60 years the Italian artist Albano Poli has been working to renew the aesthetics of Catholic churches as well as promoting meditation through art.

From his art gallery in Rome, he creates stained glass windows, mosaics and statues with a group of artists known as Progetto Arte Poli. It's a team of around 50 people located in Verona, Italy.

ANDREA MEZZETTI
Assistant, Progetto Arte Poli“Around 80 to 90 percent of our work is related to the Church. From sunrise to sunset, we are thinking about how to give a greater sense to the liturgy. We're also helping priests to deepen their celebration of the Eucharist at Sunday Mass, in every religious rite.”

Among the art pieces in the gallery, there is a giant mosaic of John Paul II that highlights his facial features. There's also this mosaic of the risen Christ made of marble in different planes.

This team of artists now has an international reputation for their work that has traveled to places like Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France and most recently in Chile.

ANDREA MEZZETTI
Assistant, Progetto Arte Poli
“We are doing important work in Coquimbo, Chile, which is the location of the tallest Cross in Latin America. It's the Cross of the Third Millennium, it's close to 300 feet tall and was created by Ramón Bravo. We were asked to make the bronze door to this great temple and bronze figure of the Blessed John Paul II.”

The Progetto Arte Poli was also responsible for the design of the vestments worn by priests at Mass.
Their work of precision art goes to show that many forms of artwork have a deeper meaning behind the beauty.

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Monthly Message to Marija Pavlovic

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Our Lady of Medjugorje Messages - Medjugorje WebSite

Our Lady's Message of July 25, 2012

“Dear children! Today I call you to the 'good'. Be carriers of peace and goodness in this world. Pray that God may give you the strength so that hope and pride may always reign in your heart and life because you are God's children and carriers of His hope to this world that is without joy in the heart, and is without a future, because it does not have its heart open to God who is your salvation. Thank you for having responded to my call. ”

Josiah Lamb: Hearing God's Voice

The following story is from CBN TV - Video

12-year-old Josiah Lamb survived a tragic jet ski accident and was miraculously saved by doing what the Lord told him to do. During the accident he also saw angels.

Archdiocese of Denver Reaches out to the Victims of the Aurora Shooting Tragedy

Please join in prayer for the victims and families of this horrific trajedy. May Our Lord intervene and bless this nation with divine protection.

The following excerpt is from Catholic Online

The Archdiocese of Denver stands ready to assist the victims of this tragedy.

In Aurora, which means "the dawn," the sun rose this morning. In a city whose name evokes the light, people of hope know that the darkness may be overcome. For those who were killed, our hope is the tender mercy of our God. "Neither death nor life," reflected St. Paul, "can separate us from the love of God." We commend their souls, and their families and friends, to God's enduring love.

Read more: Archdiocese of Denver

Healing of Colombian man could pave way for John Paul II canonization

The following excerpt is from the Catholic News Agency (CNA):

Bogotá, Colombia  - The testimony of a Colombian man who says he was “miraculously cured” of Parkinson's Disease through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II could allow for the canonization of the Polish pope.

According to the newspaper El Tiempo, the case involves Marco Fidel Rojas, the former mayor of the town of Huila, whose testimony has now been sent to the Vatican office heading the sainthood cause for the late pontiff.

Recounting his story to the Colombian paper, Fidel remembers experiencing the first symptoms of the disease in December of 2005. After a series of examinations, doctors determined he had suffered a stroke, which led to the development of Parkinson's.

Little by little the disease began to get worse. “I felt like I could collapse at any moment. Various times I fell down outside on the street,” he recalled, adding that once he was almost run over by a taxi.

As the years went by and his health continued to deteriorate, Fidel suddenly remembered on the evening of Dec. 27, 2010, that during a trip to Rome he had met Pope John Paul II after Mass and spoke with him for a few moments.

“I have a friend up there,” Fidel thought that night, amid his pain. “And he had Parkinson's. Why didn’t I pray to him before? Venerable Father John Paul II: come and heal me, put your hands on my head.”

After praying, Fidel said he slept perfectly that night, and that the next morning he woke up with no symptoms of the illness.

“Yes, John Paul II gave me the miracle of curing me,” he said. “My great promise to my healer is to spread devotion to him wherever I can.”

El Tiempo reported that Dr. Antonio Schlesinger Piedrahita, a renowned neurologist in Colombia, has certified Fidel’s healing and says he is in good health.

The miraculous healing of a French nun, Sister Marie Simon-Pierre – who also suffered from Parkinson's Disease – paved the way for the beatification of Pope John Paul II, which took place in Rome in May 2011.

Read more: CNA

Shailesh Ghimire: Finding Jesus in America

Shailesh Ghimire: Finding Jesus in America - CBN TV - Video

Raised in Hindu and Buddhist cultures, Shailesh was curious about Christ when he moved to America. View his life changing story.

Image of Virgin Mary Seen on Tree

Hundreds descend on West New York to pray after image of virgin saint spotted in tree

The photograph and following excerpt is from the HudsonReporter.com:

An image that resembles la Virgen de Guadalupe (Mexico's version of the Virgin Mary) was spotted by West New York (NJ) resident Eva Copantitla Tuesday as she was passing by a tree in front of the McDonald's on Bergenline Avenue and 60th Street. Copantitla then ran into Mayor Felix Roque's office around the corner in Town Hall to tell him the news.

Skeptical, Roque followed her to the tree and found a knot in the trunk that bore a remarkable resemblance to the iconic imagery of the Virgen de Guadalupe. Slowly, word spread, and crowds upwards of 100 people began to gather and pray around the tree.

Read more: Hudson Reporter - Hundreds descend on West New York to pray after image of virgin saint spotted in tree

What's a Scapular and what does it Represent?

Promises Associated with the Scapular

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

Over the years, scapulars have become more and more popular. For some it's a way to show devotion. For others, it's merely a fashion statement. But, not everyone knows the history of scapulars. They actually date back to the 12th century to the Order of Carmelites.
 
FR. MICEAL O'NEILL
Carmelite

“The Prior General at the time, a man named Simon Stock, an English man had this vision of the Blessed Virgin appearing to him and giving him this garment, a scapular, and promising him that she would look after this new Carmelite religious family.”

According to that promise, whoever wore the scapular would be protected in life and after death. The devotion quickly gained popularity as the message spread to other religious orders.

This small piece of fabric is a reminder of the long vestments Carmelites commonly wear. They're known for engaging in a life of deep prayer, for their committed devotion to the Virgin Mary and to the Church.

FR. MICEAL O'NEILL
Carmelite

“It had this added meaning of protection. Protection in life and protection at the hour of death. And that, over the centuries became a very important element in people's lives. And so the Carmelite scapular and the devotion to the Carmelite scapular grew quite rapidly.”

Now wearing this scapular also includes the popular notion that guarantees one will go to heaven on the first Saturday after one's death.

This devotion has also been quite popular among Popes. John Paul II wore one for most of his life.

FR. MICEAL O'NEILL
Carmelite

“He made no secret of the fact that he had worn the scapular all his life and he talked about that as an expression of his particular love for the Blessed Virgin.”

After the Second Vatican Council, the popularity of the scapular of Our Lady, grew even more.

Many people still ask Carmelites to bless the scapular and say a short prayer before placing it over devotees. The design of the Sacred Heart, is often made of fabric or metal. Really, whoever wears it, in some way shares that historic link with the greater Carmelite family.

St. María Goretti, a child martyred for defending her virginity

St. María Goretti, a child martyred for defending her virginity

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

At only eleven years old, María Goretti became a martyr for defending her virginity. She was murdered by her neighbor Alessandro Serenelli.

She died on July 6, 1902 after being stabbed fourteen times. On her deathbed she received the sacraments and forgave her murderer while comforting her mother who was at her bedside.

Alessandro Serenelli was sentenced to 30 years in prison. He once saw María Goretti in a dream. He then decided to write a letter apologizing for his actions. He also asked for forgiveness from God and Maria's family.

After his release from prison he converted to Catholicism, he worked as a gardener in a monastery and joined the Franciscan Third Order.

María Goretti was canonized by Pope Pius XII on June 24, 1950.

She had a short life, it was one of a normal girl with a great faith and love for others. She became an extraordinary girl who accepted martyrdom in order to preserve herself.

Our Lady of Medjugorje - Message of July 2, 2012

Savior of the World - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Message of July 2, 2012 to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo:

"My children; Again, in a motherly way, I implore you to stop for a moment and to reflect on yourselves and on the transience of this your earthly life. Then reflect on eternity and the eternal beatitude. What do you want? Which way do you want to set out on? The Father`s love sends me to be a mediatrix for you, to show you with motherly love the way which leads to the purity of soul; a soul unburdened by sin; a soul that will come to know eternity. I am praying that the light of the love of my Son may illuminate you, so that you may triumph over weaknesses and come out of misery. You are my children and I desire for all of you to be on the way of salvation. Therefore, my children, gather around me that I may have you come to know the love of my Son and thus open the door of eternal beatitude. Pray as I do for your shepherds. Again I caution you: do not judge them, because my Son chose them. Thank you."

Ex-FBI Employee Claims She Saw Angels at Flight 93

9/11 Memorial in Morris County, NJ - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Ex-FBI Employee Claims She Saw Angels at Flight 93 - ABC News

The following excerpt is by JOE MANDAK the Associated Press:

A former police officer who retired from the FBI due to post-traumatic stress disorder linked to her role in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terror attacks has written a book about seeing legions of angels guarding the Pennsylvania site where a hijacked airliner crashed.

Lillie Leonardi served as a liaison between law enforcement and the families of the passengers and crew members killed in the United Airlines Flight 93 crash. She arrived on the scene about three hours after the crash.

Although Leonardi's book, "In the Shadow of a Badge: A Spiritual Memoir," centers on her vision of angels, she argues her life has been changed more by what she didn't see that day.

"The biggest thing for me is that that there were no bodies," she said.

Leonardi, 56, remembers the burning pine and jet fuel stinging her nostrils. She said she also remembers a smoldering crater littered with debris too small to associate with the jetliner or 40 passengers and crew on board.

"I'm used to crime scenes but this one blew me out of the water. It just looked like the ground had swallowed up" the plane, Leonardi said.

"That's when I started seeing like shimmery lights ... and it was kind of misty and that's when I first saw, like, the angels there," Leonardi said. "And I didn't say anything to the guys because you can imagine if I would have said, 'I just saw angels on the crash site,' they'd have called the office and they'd have said, 'She lost her mind and tell her to go home.'"

Instead, Leonardi kept it to herself for the better part of two years. As emotional and physical ailments surfaced that she would later learn were post-traumatic stress disorder-related, she began telling a close circle of friends and colleagues what she saw, including Kenneth McCabe, her former supervisor.

Read More: Ex-FBI Employee Claims She Saw Angels at Flight 93

Father and son become Catholic priests... as their wives watch

Father and son become Catholic priests... as their wives watch | wfaa.com Dallas - Fort Worth

The following excerpt is from WFFA.com:

By DEBBIE DENMON

KELLER, TEXAS — "Charles Albert Hough the III."

Bishop Kevin Vann's historic words rang out at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Keller as he called first the father... and then the son.

"Charles Albert Hough the IV."

Both answered the call before a big congregation during a one-of-its-kind ordination.
"Oh, this is a great moment in the life of our family — a great moment in the history of our faith," said the elder Hough.

The father-and-son duo — who both go by "Chuck" — are among six Episcopal priests who became Catholic priests at the Saturday morning ceremony.

The Vatican started to let married Episcopal priests be ordained in the Catholic church 20 years ago.
The wives of both Chuck Hough III and IV both proudly looked on during the service.

"It's been a blessing... a miraculous blessing to be ordained with my son," said the elder Father Chuck. "The first time in the history of the United States a father and son has ever been ordained at the same Mass."
It was a special ceremony for more reasons than one. The political rift between Anglicans and Catholics is on the mend.

"It's a day in great history, because really — in some ways — it's sort of mending the break that occurred in the reformation years ago," Bishop Vann said. "It's very historical."

Read More: Father and Son become Priests

Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty

Liberty - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

As we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th in the United States, let us remember that as citizens of this nation we have a right to defend our religious liberty.  The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has composed the following prayer:

Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty

O God our Creator,
from your provident hand we have received our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
You have called us as your people and given us the right and the duty to worship you, the only true God, and your Son, Jesus Christ.

Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit,
you call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world,
bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel
to every corner of society.

We ask you to bless us
in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty.
Give us the strength of mind and heart
to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened;
give us courage in making our voices heard
on behalf of the rights of your Church
and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith.

Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father,
a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters
gathered in your Church
in this decisive hour in the history of our nation,
so that, with every trial withstood
and every danger overcome—
for the sake of our children, our grandchildren,
and all who come after us—
this great land will always be "one nation, under God,
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Pope Recognizes 'heroic virtues' of late American Archbishop Fulton Sheen

Fulton Sheen declared venerable. Cause for beatification moves forward

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

The Pope has formally recognized the 'heroic virtues' of late American Archbishop Fulton Sheen. He's mostly known for his work as a 'televangelist' during his 20 year career in radio and television. In fact, he was recognized with two EMMY awards for his work on the show. He also served as the Archbishop of New York and Rochester in the 50's and 60's.

The decree signed by the Pope, recognizes that Sheen exemplified Christian values in his life. It also furthers his cause for beatification. In the next step, the Vatican must acknowledge that a documented miracle happened through the intercession of Sheen. If it's approved by experts, theologians and the Pope, it could further his cause for beatification and eventually sainthood.

Sheen's cause for beatification was opened in 2002. He died at the age of 84 in 1979 after a lifetime of work in the Church.

Restless Heart, a New Motion Picture on the life of St. Augustine

Restless Heart – Maximus Newsroom Press Release

Ignatius Press brings exclusive film on beloved Saint to America

SAN FRANCISCO, June 20, 2012 – St. Augustine of Hippo is one of the Christian world’s most beloved and well-known saints. However, his amazing conversion and heroic life have not been told on the big screen … until now.

Ignatius Press announces the forthcoming release of RESTLESS HEART: The Confessions of Augustine. This major motion picture is available now for sponsored theatrical screenings across the country. Individuals, parishes, church groups or other organizations can bring this epic film to their towns beginning immediately.

“We are thrilled to bring RESTLESS HEART to the big screen,” said Ignatius Press President Mark Brumley. “St. Augustine is one of the first Doctors of the Church, along with St. Ambrose, St. Jerome and St. Gregory the Great – named in 1268 by Pope Boniface VIII. His story is inspiring and compelling, and his writings are among the most respected in the world even today.

“RESTLESS HEART is amazing,” he added. “It is the most moving story of conversion and reconciliation ever brought to the big screen, and Ignatius Press is honored to offer this film to America.”

“RESTLESS HEART offers a soul-stirring portrait of a great sinner who became one of the Church’s greatest saints,” said National Catholic Register writer Tim Drake. “It’s a timeless conversion story for our age – a testament to the power of Truth.”

Unlike many faith-based films that open in limited release around the country and often don’t make it to cities and towns with significant interest, RESTLESS HEART is available for showing anywhere. Interested groups and individuals work with local theaters and other venues to rent a screen, and Ignatius provides a copy of the film with a complete promotional kit for an affordable fee.

“RESTLESS HEART tells St. Augustine’s story with superb production values, and it features an outstanding cast,” Brumley added. “We look forward to working with parishes, other organizations, and individuals across the country to bring St. Augustine’s life to as many people as possible. This is a tremendous opportunity to launch the Year of Faith and engage in the New Evangelization.”

An exclusive, extended trailer of the film is available online now at www.RestlessHeartFilm.com. For more information or interviews, please contact Tim Lilley (678-990-9032 or email TLilley@MaximusMG.com) or Kevin Wandra (678-990-9032 or email TLilley@MaximusMG.com) of The Maximus Group.

To bring RESTLESS HEART to a theater in your area, please contact Victor Pap (678-990-9032 or email VPap@MaximusMG.com) or Brandon Duncan (678-990-9032 or email BDuncan@MaximusMG.com) of The Maximus Group.

About the Film

RESTLESS HEART provides a historic backdrop and one of the Church’s most beloved and well-known saints – Augustine of Hippo – as its central character to tell a familiar story – as timely today as it was only a few generations after Jesus walked on Earth. It is the story of one who pursues fame and fortune without a moral compass – and the changes that occur when events lead him to see the light. It also chronicles the collapse of the Roman world and how Augustine laid the intellectual foundations of what became Europe.

Filmed in Europe, this major new epic film on the life of St. Augustine is the first full-length feature movie on the story of this incredible man.

RESTLESS HEART is directed by Christian Duguay (“Joan of Arc,” “Pius XII”). The $20-million project runs 127 minutes. The cast includes Allesandro Presiosi, Monica Guerritore, Johannes Brandrup, Serena Rossi and Franco Nero.

About Ignatius Press

Ignatius Press is among the largest U.S. publishers and distributors of Catholic books, magazines, videos, DVDs, and music. It is the primary English-language publisher of Pope Benedict XVI’s books.