FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH THE WORKER

St. Joseph - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

News from Catholic News Agency (CNA)

St. Joseph has two feast days on the liturgical calendar. The first is March 19—Joseph, the Husband of Mary. The second is May 1—Joseph, the Worker.

“Saint Joseph is a man of great spirit. He is great in faith, not because he speaks his own words, but above all because he listens to the words of the Living God. He listens in silence. And his heart ceaselessly perseveres in the readiness to accept the Truth contained in the word of the Living God,” Pope John Paul II had once said.

There is very little about the life of Joseph in Scripture but still, we know that he was the chaste husband of Mary, the foster father of Jesus, a carpenter and  a man who was not wealthy. We also know that he came from the royal lineage of King David.

We can see from his actions in scripture that Joseph was a compassionate man, and obedient to the will of God. He also loved Mary and Jesus and wanted to protect and provide for them.

Since Joseph does not appear in Jesus' public life, at his death, or resurrection, many historians believe Joseph had probably died before Jesus entered public ministry.

Joseph is the patron of many things, including the universal Church, fathers, the dying and social justice.

Delivered from Danger by the Power of Prayer

News Excerpt and Video from CBN.com

A heart malfunction caused Steve DeMoss to go into a coma from which he miraculously awakened after being anointed by his pastor.

Doctors told Sharon DeMoss that Steve needed to wake up from the coma within 5 days, or he would suffer major brain damage. On the fourth day, he was showing no signs of recovery. She called a local church for prayer. “They came over immediately and they spent a long time,” Sharon said. “We worshipped. We prayed together. We held hands. We prayed over him. They anointed him with oil.”

By the next morning, Steve was awake and had no signs of brain damage. “When I woke up, my wife says, ‘Do you realize what just happened?’ I had all these tubes in me and everything. Then my kids came to me, my daughter and one of my sons, we huddled and we realized that the worst had passed.”

“I remember just being able to breathe after that,” Sharon said. “Like, it was going to be okay.”

“That was a pretty joyful realization that God’s restored what we had almost lost,” Steve said.

That same afternoon, Steve was walking around the hospital, and he was released just days later. “When I woke up, I heard that people were praying all over the world,” Steve said. “I had friends in Senegal, Uganda. I really believe that the prayers of the people is what brought me back. It was extremely touching for me. It just made me feel like, ‘I am so glad I am a part of the body of Christ.’”

***

The following scripture is a testament to God's word being true in our time as well as two thousand years ago:  

Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.  The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven.  James 5:14-15

Shimon Peres gives Pope Frances personal invitation to visit Jerusalem

News excerpt from RomeReports.com

A month and a half after his election as Pope, Francis welcomed the president of Israel Shimon Peres at the Vatican. Soon after their greeting, Peres asked the Pope to pray for his country.

As camera flashes went off, Peres joked with the Pope that now those sounds of camera shutters follow them everywhere. 

“It is part of our life now.”

They then met in private for about half an hour, using an interpreter to communicate. According to the Vatican press release, the Pope and the president spoke about the current political and social situation in the Middle East, peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and the importance of the city of Jerusalem. The Pope also expressed his concern for the conflict in Syria.

Pope Francis and Shimon Peres also highlighted the improvements in relations between Israel and the Holy See, since the creation of a bilateral permanent working commission 14 years ago.

Peres is on a three day tour to Italy, and will also meet with the Italian president and the new government. He will also receive the Medal of Honor for Peace at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Peres told the Pope he would pray for him there.

The Israeli president gave the Pope a Bible of Jerusalem with black leather binding, in Hebrew and English.

“It is the Holy Bible with a quotation.”

“Thank you very much.”

In the first pages of the Bible, Shimon Peres wrote verses from the Book of Kings: “To His Holiness, Pope Francis, I hope you will prosper in everything that you do and wherever you go.”

“From the Book of Kings. With deep esteem. Signed by Shimon Peres, president of Israel. April 2013.”

The Pope gave the president a small white case with three commemorative medals of his pontificate.

Before saying goodbye, Peres invited the Pope to visit Israel.

“I am waiting for you in Jerusalem, and not just me, but all the people from Israel.”

Shimon Peres is the eight president that has met in person with Pope Francis at the Vatican, since his election on March 13.

Stephen B. Whatley Exhibits 'Paintings from Prayer' in London Show

St. James by Stephen B. Whatley

Saint James by Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr.com

Catholic Life has published a feature story on Stephen B. Whatley in the April 2013 issue regarding his beautiful 'Paintings from Prayer' now on exhibition and available for purchase at St. James Church in London. The show runs from April 17 to May 19, 2013.

The art of Stephen B. Whatley is also featured in the September 2011 issue of Catholic Life magazine. His inspiring story of being Babtized as an Anglican and then later being confirmed in the Catholic Church is an amazing reflection of his spiritual journey of faith. The article is reprinted on the following link: Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist.  ~Loci B. Lenar

'Paintings from Prayer' Exhibition - St. James Church, London

The photos and following news item regarding the exhibition is reprinted from the website of Stephen B. Whatley:

Now showing in central London is Stephen B. Whatley's 'Paintings from Prayer' exhibition at The Rectory, St. James's Church, Spanish Place, 22 George Street, London W1 (17 April - 19 May 2013).

The most recent of the artist's Catholic tribute paintings, Saint James - or James The Greater, one of the twelve apostles is on exhibit at the show.

A catalyst for the inspiration was the Statue of Saint James that stands high in St James's Church, Spanish Place. As a pilgrim who preached the Gospel in Spain, he is depicted with a staff and water bottle, palm fronds and a sword, symbols of his martyrdom ; while the scallop shell upon his hat is a recognized symbol of pilgrims in the Holy Land, as the shells are bountiful on the shores of Palestine.

Stephen was confirmed a Roman Catholic on this day April 23rd, in 2011, at St James's Church, Spanish Place; and his confirmation name is James.

April 2013 Catholic Life Magazine

For further information on where and when to see the exhibition in which this new painting is featured, please see the press release: Paintings from Prayer


St. James
Painted in 2013
Oil on canvas
35 x 24in/90 x 60cm
www.stephenbwhatley.com

The Vatican doctors approve the miracle to make Wojtyla a saint

Excerpt from the Vatican Insider

By Andrea Tornielli - Vatican City

"A saint now!" The canonisation of Wojtyla is getting closer quickly and it could be celebrated next October. In fact, in the past few days, the medical council of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints has recognized as inexplicable one healing attributed to the blessed John Paul II. A supposed "miracle" that, if it is also approved by theologians and the cardinals (as it is very likely), will bring the Polish Pope, who died in 2005, the halo of sainthood in record time, just eight years after his death.

Read More: Blessed John Paul II

Baseball's Mark Teixeira in Faith and Family

News from CBN.com

A member of baseball's most storied franchise, this New York Yankee talks with CBN Sports about his faith.

Our Prayers are with the Victims and Families of the Boston Marathon Tragedy

Heavenly Father

Heavenly Father, we pray for divine intervention to end the violence in our world and nation. We also pray for divine protection for our families and neighbors. Surround us with your guardian angels and bless us with your peace. We ask this through your divine son, Jesus Christ. Amen.  ~Loci B. Lenar


St. Michael the Archangel

Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel for God's Protection

Saint Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle,
be our protection against the malice and snares
of the devil.
May God rebuke him we humbly pray;
and do thou,
O Prince of the Heavenly host,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits
who wander through the world
seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.

All Photographs by Loci B. Lenar

Vatican declares healing of Colorado Springs boy a miracle after prayers to German nun

Excerpt from The Denver Post

By Electa Draper

The wheels of canonization grind slowly, but a German nun who lived 100 years ago could be named a saint because the Vatican believes a Colorado Springs boy experienced a miracle in 1999.  Mother Theresia Bonzel, who founded the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration in Olpe, Germany, in 1863, is scheduled for beatification in November — a step toward sainthood — as a result of the boy's miraculous recovery. Two Colorado Spring nuns prayed to Bonzel on behalf of 4-year-old Luke Burgie, and the events that followed — over the next 14 years — have been closely scrutinized and investigated by church officials and doctors.

Sister Margaret Mary Preister and the late Sister Evangeline Spenner had just recited a series of prayers over nine straight days asking Mother Bonzel, who died in 1905, to intercede for Luke.

Doctors couldn't explain Luke's sudden recovery, and the Vatican machinery for investigating alleged miracles began to churn.

Journalist Bill Briggs, who wrote in depth about Catholic Church investigations into such supernatural occurrences in his book "The Third Miracle," said the process is, in a word, "rigorous."

"I think what would surprise people outside the church is how very dubious investigators are," Briggs said. "To examine these claims, they look at hundreds, if not thousands, of medical records and other pieces of evidence. It's the furthest thing from a rubber stamp."

Briggs said the situation or illness doesn't have to be terminal or even dramatic. The cure simply has to be rapid, complete and utterly inexplicable by ordinary means. The church interviews the original doctors in the case, and a team of independent medical experts then pore over all the records.

Colorado Springs Bishop Michael Sheridan on Friday congratulated the local motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration on the Vatican pronouncement of a miracle in the Burgie case.

Read more: Vatican Declares Healing a Miracle

Are You or Someone in Need of Prayer? If so, Let Our Prayer Ministry Pray for Your Needs

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

Prayer requests submitted on www.christian-miracles.com are prayed for  daily on our website, and weekly at St. Mary's Church (Denville, NJ) during Monday mornings at Holy Hour Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, including at the monthly prayer service held with Fr. Richard Tartaglia.

Many people are struggling with their finances and some are unemployed.  We all have family and friends that might be in need of prayer. Some may be suffering from an illness or dealing with a troubled marriage or relationship. We are all in need of hope, especially when trying to cope with burdens that affect our daily lives.

Regardless of circumstances that you might be facing today, God cares and loves you. Let us pray for your needs and ask for divine assistance to help you or someone that is in need of God's intervention.

Regarding prayer, Jesus said, "Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." (Matthew 18:19-20)

"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

May Our Lord answer your prayers with divine favor!

A Selection of Daily Devotional Prayers

Submit Prayer Requests to: http://www.christian-miracles.com/prayerrequest.htm

Statue of Jesus photographed inside of Saint Thomas More Catholic Church, Madison Avenue, Convent Station, NJ.

A Vision of Heaven Leads to New Life

News Story from CBN.com

Alan Youngblood was a very successful home builder who had no time for God until a New Year's Eve church service changed his life forever.

A Wake-up Call From Hell

Testimony from CBN.com

A drug binge put Carl Knighton at death's doorstep. The result was an experience of hell that changed his life forever.

(This sobering story about Carl Knighton will lead you back to God's love and mercy...a God of forgiveness and second chances.  ~Loci B. Lenar)

Pope Francis meets with first Protestant leader

News from RomeReports.com

April 8, 2013 -  On Monday morning, Pope Francis welcomed the president of the Evangelical Church in Germany, Nikolaus Schneider, in his first papal audience with a Protestant leader and his wife.

In a 30 minute meeting, the two leaders spoke about ecumenism. Both spoke about the martyrs as a bond between Christians, as well as the upcoming anniversary of the Reformation in 2017, and the possibility that both Churches will celebrate it together. 

At the end, the two exchanged greetings as well as gifts. Schneider gave Pope Francis a Bible in German, while the Pope gave him a papal medallion. After the exchange, the Pope enthusiastically thanked Schneider in German. 

Other leaders present at the meeting were German Cardinal Kurt Koch, the prefect for the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, as well as German Archbishop Gerhard Muller, prefect for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. 

The Evangelical Church in Germany is a federation of 22 Protestant Churches representing a third of that country's population. 

Roma Downey Says Pope Francis Is 'A New Pope of Hope'

The following excerpt is from Christianpost.com

By Anugrah Kumar , Christian Post Contributor

 

Roma Downey, a Roman Catholic and co-creator of the History Channel's "The Bible" miniseries, said Pope Francis is "a new pope of hope," whose leadership and humility are sowing the seeds of hope in people's hearts and lives.

 

"It certainly feels like there's divine planning in all of it," actress and producer Downey, known for her 10-year role on the TV series "Touched By An Angel," said, referring to the pope's election last month, during an interview with Zap2it.

"The new pope, he's been wonderful, hasn't he? He's just inspiring such hope and belief," said Downey, who starred in the role of the Virgin Mary in the hit miniseries she co-produced with her husband, Mark Burnett, who is the creator of reality TV shows such as "Celebrity Apprentice," "Survivor" and "The Voice."

"People are reconnecting. People are being inspired by his leadership and his humility, by the tenderness with which he's approached his office, and the choices he's made so far," Downey said in the joint interview with Burnett, adding the pope is "showing a servant's heart."

Read more at Christianpost.com

Divine Mercy Sunday

DIVINE MERCY by Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

Today, Sunday, April 7, 2013, is the Feast Day of Divine Mercy, which always falls on the first Sunday after Easter.

In one of His many miraculous visitations with the Polish nun Sister Faustina (1905-1938) - now Saint Faustina - Jesus asked her to tell the world that, "the very depths of my Mercy will be opened on that day. I will pour out a sea of graces upon those souls that will approach the fount of My Mercy on this day....let no soul fear to come to Me, even if its sins be scarlet..."

In February 1931, Jesus had appeared to Faustina and asked her to have an image painted as He appeared before her - with his hand held up in blessing; the other hand on his breast, from which flowed two rays: the pale symbolising the water, which cleanses and purifies the soul. The red representing the blood which gives new life to the soul. Jesus said " These rays will shield the soul before the justice of my Father..."

He asked that the painting be inscribed with the words, Jezu Ufam Tobie (Polish) - meaning Jesus I Trust in You.

Since February 2002 I have felt compelled to paint and draw my own interpretation of this Divine Mercy image, according to the instructions given by Jesus - each time hoping to reveal this message ever more powerfully - often on Divine Mercy Sunday. Yesterday , in prayer, I felt a 'divine push' to create in order to show today - keeping all those most suffering in my heart and with hope for world peace.

Love Christ and your life will change: Jesus I Trust in You.

Peace and Healings on this day.

Divine Mercy 2013 by Stephen B Whatley
Charcoal, chalk Pastel & Oil pastel on paper.
23.4 x 16.5in/59 x 42cm
www.stephenbwhatley.com

A Prayer for God's Divine Protection: Psalm 91

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Psalm 91

 

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High

will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.



They say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,

my God, in whom I trust."

 Surely he will save you

from the fowler's snare

and from the deadly pestilence.

 

He will cover you with his feathers,

and under his wings you will find refuge;

his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
 

You will not fear the terror of night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,

nor the plague that destroys at midday.
 

A thousand may fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,

but it will not come near you.
 

You will only observe with your eyes

and see the punishment of the wicked.

If you say, "The LORD is my refuge,"

and you make the Most High your dwelling,

 no harm will overtake you,

no disaster will come near your tent.
 

For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways;

they will lift you up in their hands,

so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
 

 You will tread on the lion and the cobra;

you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

"Because they love me," says the LORD, "I will rescue them;

I will protect them, for they acknowledge my name.
 

They will call on me, and I will answer them;

I will be with them in trouble,

I will deliver them and honor them.
 

With long life I will satisfy them

and show them my salvation."

 

Visit the following link for a selection of Devotional Prayers

 

www.Christian-Miracles.com

Son's Life Sets Example for His Father

News Story from CBN.com

Andrew Sobel experienced enviable success in the business world, but something was missing. He turned to the Bible for answers and found more than he had ever hoped for.

Wishing all Visitors a Happy Easter!

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Resurrection of Jesus

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.

There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.  The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.  Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped 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)

www.Christian-Miracles.com

Indian Film 'Christaayan' breaks ground

News from RomeReports.com

It's a country that's known for its 'Bollywood' films, but most recently Indian producers broke ground with a different kind of genre-a movie about Jesus. It's titled 'Christaayan' which translates to the 'The Path of Christ.' The Hindi film is more than six hours long, but a shorter 53 minute version has been released as well.

More than 19 million Catholics live in India. The high number though, only accounts for about 4 percent of the country's population. Producers are hoping that films like these, will give an extra push to the New Evangelization, especially in countries with a Christian minority.

Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Flickr - Photo Sharing!

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son (Jesus) into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. (John 3:16-17)

The stained glass window was photographed in Saint Mary's Church, Myers Avenue and Route 46, Denville, NJ.

Photograph Copyright Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople foresees reunion of Christian East and West

News story from Byzantine Catholic Church in America

CWN - Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople has told reporters that he sees a possibility for reunion between the Orthodox and Roman churches, even if it “will probably not happen during my life.”

The Ecumenical Patriarch, who made history by traveling to Rome for the inaugural Mass of Pope Francis, said that he was surprised to receive an invitation from the new Pontiff to join in a dinner with cardinals.

Speaking in Turkey after his return, the Orthodox leader said that he saw a new attitude at the Vatican, which heightened his optimism about the prospects for restoring Christian unity. He said that “there is a possibility for the next generations to see the churches of the East and West.”

While he was at the Vatican, Patriarch Bartholomew invited Pope Francis to join him in a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, to commemorate the historic meeting there 50 years ago between Pope Paul VI and Patriarch Athenagoras.

Good Friday: The Agony of Mary

Good Friday: The Agony of Mary by Stephen B. Whatley

The following excerpt is from the website of Stephen B Whatley | Flickr.com

In this 'drawing from prayer' - created on Good Friday (2011) - expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley wanted to recognize the inevitable cries of despair and grief of Mary, Mother of God, at the foot of the Cross upon which her son, Jesus was crucified, over 2000 years ago. Divinely chosen to carry the Son of God, she would have no doubt been as deeply bereft as any devoted mother losing her child in such a brutal way.

Christians believe the day is "good" because the message of Easter is of Christ's victory over sin, death, and the devil; as the Apostle Paul wrote: "Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us."

Certainly it is day for reflection, for mourning. Those who love will one day grieve: the price we pay for love is grief.

Friday may be of darkness, but Sunday - Easter - will bring the light of the Resurrection of Christ.

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

Pope Francis washes feet of 12 jailed minors, including two girls, at detention center

News from RomeReports.com

On Thursday evening, Pope Francis celebrated the Mass of the Last Supper at the Casal del Marmo Juvenile Detention Center, outside Rome. He also washed the feet of 12 jailed teens. According to the Vatican, not all of them are Catholic. Some of the teens were of other religions.

Among the people who had their feet washed, were two teenage girls, one Italian and another from Serbia.

By washing their feet, the Pope evoked the time Jesus washed the feet of his twelve apostles during the Last Supper.

Illuminating Angels: Easter Angels

Guideposts.com

Celebrate the role that an angel played in the Easter story—sharing the news of Jesus's resurrection.

Shroud of Turin to be displayed on Holy Saturday

News from RomeReports.com

In honor of the Year of Faith, the Shroud of Turin will be displayed once again inside the Dome of Turin on Holy Saturday, March 30. The last time it was put on display for the public was more than three years ago. 
 
However, the visit is only open to a group of 300 made up of youths and people who are sick or disabled. It will also be broadcast live. 

When Benedict XVI visited the Shroud of Turin in 2010, he called it an “icon of Holy Saturday,” which is why the Archbishop of Turin decided to put it on display for the Year of Faith.

Pope talks about three points during Palm Sunday Homily: Joy, Cross, Youth

News from RomeReports.com

Pope Francis made his way through St. Peter's Square to celebrate the first Palm Sunday Mass of his pontificate.

To mark the beginning of Holy Week, Pope Francis blessed palm and olive branches on the obelisk that stands before the square. It's a symbol that honors Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

During his homily, Pope Francis focused on three points: Joy, the Cross and Youth. On the first point he said true joy comes from Jesus, not from possessions.

POPE FRANCIS
“Do not be men and women of sadness: a Christian can never be sad! Never give way to discouragement! Ours is not a joy that comes from having many possessions, but from having encountered a Person: Jesus! Don't let your hope to be taken from you.”

Since Holy Week honors the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus, the Pope went on to explain the second point of his homily: The Cross.

POPE FRANCIS
“I think of what Benedict XVI told cardinals: You are princes, but you are princes of a crucified King. This is the gift that Jesus gives to us all, on the throne of the Cross. The Cross of Christ embraces love. It never carries sadness, but rather joy. The same joy of salvation and of doing even just a small portion of what he did the day of His Crucifixion.”

For 28 years now, Palm Sunday also marks World Youth Day in Rome. So the Pope's third point, was quite fittingly: the youth. Pope Francis officially announced that he will be traveling to Brazil in late July to lead World Youth Day in Rio.

POPE FRANCIS
“Dear friends, I will walk along with you, and follow in the footsteps of Blessed John Paul II and Benedict XVI. We are already close to the next stage of this great pilgrimage of Christ’s Cross. I look forward joyfully to next July in Rio de Janeiro! I will see you in that great city in Brazil! Prepare well – prepare spiritually above all in your communities, so that our gathering in Rio may be a sign of faith for the whole world.”

The Pope improvised quite a bit during his Homily and he told all the young people that their role in the Church is key. He also said that with Christ, the heart never grows old.

POPE FRANCIS
“Young people should tell the world that it is good, joyful to follow Jesus, to walk along with Him and believe in His message. It is good to go beyond one's limits and existence to teach others about Jesus. Three words: joy, cross and youth.”

Towards the end, the Pope celebrated the Angelus in Latin before roughly 250,000 people.

Wounded Cop Saw Vision of Jesus

News excerpt from UTSanDiego.com

By Dana Littlefield

EL CAJON — In the minutes after a sheriff’s detective was seriously injured in a shootout with a child molestation suspect last year, he began to accept that he might not make it out alive. And then a miracle happened — he said he saw Jesus Christ.

Detective Ali Perez had just kicked in the door of a Lakeside apartment where he and others had gone to contact the suspect, when a bullet tore through his left arm. Moments later, the detective was shot in his torso, just below his chest.

 

Lying on his back on the floor, Perez said he was out of bullets and losing blood quickly, while the suspect — Daniel Robert Witczak — was still able to move around the apartment, armed with a high-powered rifle.

 

And that’s when it happened.

 

“I saw my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Perez testified, adding that Jesus appeared to be seated in a chair between himself and the shooter.

 

Read more: Ali Perez Saw Vision of Jesus

Miraculously Healed While Reading the Bible

News excerpt from CBN.com

By David DiCicco

When Sue Wynn was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the prime of her life, her apathy towards God began to change.

One Sunday her pastor shocked the congregation. “He was standing in the pulpit and said, ‘I’m going to stick my head out. I’ve had a vision and in it Sue, you are healed.’ And I didn’t believe healing was for today and yet my face lit up and I smiled.”

Sue’s doubt didn’t stop her pastor, and he met with her and Jeff regularly for Bible study. “He says, ‘The first thing we need to do is go to Hebrews 13:8. Read it out loud.’ The minute I said, ‘Jesus Christ is the same – the same yesterday, and today and forever’, I was immediately convicted that I had limited God. I was saying He doesn’t do that, and this Word was telling me, ‘Oh yeah, He does.’”

She began reading healing scriptures and with each visit from their pastor, Sue’s faith for healing grew. “I had faith and I’m saying, ‘Oh yeah, yeah, He’s gonna do it.’ I go to bed this one night and a wave of doubt – ‘Who do you think you are? MS is incurable. You’re fooling yourself. You’re not worthy.’ On and on… and I was crushed. All my faith, it seemed, went right out the window.”

“I heard in my heart, ‘You’re sinking in a sea of doubt.’ And I knew it was the Lord. I knew it was His voice.” Sue went downstairs and read her Bible. “All of a sudden, I felt a sensation that I had not felt before. I had felt maybe little tiny touches, nothing like this. It was like oil was being poured on my head from the inside, and was slowly diffusing down through everything, out to the fingertips, down to the toes – everything. And I knew that as it was happening, it was Jesus, and He was healing me. Everything wrong sat right just right down through my body. And I knew I was healed.”

“I woke up the next morning and I felt like I had been plugged in to a super charger. I mean I’m like, ‘There’s power in me that I have never felt before. I mean this is a whole new thing. Oh my goodness, what has happened?’”

At her next visit to the neurologist the doctor confirmed her miracle. “He looked in my eyes first and there was damage in my left eye that was visible with an ophthalmoscope, and it was gone. And he said, ‘This is God.’ He tested my whole body, did all the usual neurological tests, and there was no evidence of any neurological problem.” 

Read more: Miraculously Healed of MS

Pope Francis: 'Build bridges' across religions, beliefs for peace

News from RomeReports.com

The Vatican holds diplomatic relations with about 180 countries worldwide. Most of them were represented Friday during the Pope's audience with accredited diplomats to the Holy See.

Meeting inside the Sala Regia, Pope Francis delivered brief remarks on the work he shares with the other countries to build lasting peace in the world.

FRANCIS
“I wish that the dialogue between us will help build bridges between mankind, so that each person can find in others, not an enemy or competitor, but a brother welcomed with open arms.”

Ditching the red cape that covers his upper body, traditionally used for meetings with diplomats, Pope Francis encouraged dialogue between different religions, to achieve peace.

He said it was also important to reach out to non-believers, and those in search of truth. Be he added that God plays an important role in the process.

FRANCIS
“You cannot in fact build bridges between mankind forgetting about God. But it's also true inversely. You cannot live in truth with God by ignoring others.”

The newly-elected Pope explained how his namesake, St. Francis of Assisi, inspired him to look after the poor, and those who are suffering, as well as the Church's role in protecting them.

But he also gave a second explanation. Echoing the words of his predecessor Benedict XVI, he spoke spiritual poverty in the richer countries, caused by individualism.

FRANCIS
“You cannot have peace if each person is the measure of oneself, if each person claims their own rights without, as the same time, looking out for the good of others, of all others, starting with mother nature which accommodates each and every person on this Earth.”

During his nine minute speech, he thanked the presence of Muslim leaders, as well as those countries who do not have diplomatic ties with the Vatican, but still attended his Inaugural Mass. He closed off the meeting, individually greeting each delegate and their spouses.

Orthodox and Catholic Breakthrough? Pope Francis Embraces 'My Brother Andrew'

International News - Excerpt from Catholic Online

By Deacon Keith Fournier

Pope Francis, has made it clear. He will continue the work toward the day when the two lungs of the Church, East and West, breathe together again.

First, I want to share my heart with my readers. I long for the full communion of the Orthodox and Catholic Church. I pray daily for the full communion of the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. I do so because I believe it is the will of God that "All May be One" (John 17: 21).

I am also persuaded that the healing of the division between the two sister churches would unleash a profound renewal of the entire Church at the dawn of this new missionary age. I believe that the gifts found in the whole Church will enrich both East and West and assist us in the One mission which we must face together in our One Lord.

Read more: Orthodox and Catholic Breakthrough

St. Mary's Prayer Service Scheduled for March 21, 2013

"Into Your Hands I commit My Spirit" - Photo by Loci B. Lenar 

Please consider visiting St. Mary's Catholic Church for Mass and prayer services. 

Are you in need of prayer? Perhaps a family member or friend is in need of God's mercy and grace?

With help from Loci B. Lenar and support of Father Richard Tartaglia, including Barbara Jones from the National Conference of Catholic Women (NCCW), prayer requests which are submitted through "Christian-Miracles.com" are prayed for every Monday morning after Mass during Holy Hour Adoration, between the hours of 8:30 to 9:30 am. If you're unable to attend St. Mary's Church, please join in prayerful unity on Monday mornings every week as we petition God to answer all of our prayers.

Submit your prayer requests to PrayerRequest@Christian-Miracles.com

The church also holds a monthly service for prayer with Fr. Richard Tartaglia including special prayer intentions which are submitted through the website of Christian-Miracles.com.

Previous services have included prayer for Christian Unity. However, prayers for world peace are always included.

St. Mary's prayer service is held every third Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM with a new theme. March will focus on the Crucifixion of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his Resurrection on Easter Sunday. The prayer service is scheduled for March 21, 2013.

There is great power through the Holy Spirit when people join together in agreement while praying for God’s help and intervention.

However, if you cannot attend St. Mary's prayer service, you can still join in by praying in unity with St. Mary’s Church for all special prayer intentions.

God wants us to approach him with the desires of our heart. Our Lord calls us to connect with his divine grace in order to receive blessings in our lives.

Trust and believe in God's word and wait for his timing to receive an answer to your prayers. Miracles happen when least expected!

Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. (Isaiah 65:24)

Regarding prayer, Jesus said, "Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst." (Matthew 18:19-20)

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

If you live in the area or plan on visiting New Jersey, please consider attending and joining in the evening prayer service with Fr. Richard Tartaglia. The service begins with singing of hymns followed with psalm prayers and then reading of the gospels. After the reading, Fr. Tartaglia gives his homily which is followed with a prayer of intercession for Special Prayer Intentions (prayer requests). The Lord's Prayer is recited and after that there is a closing prayer with a blessing given by Fr. Tartaglia. The prayer service is concluded with a closing song.

St. Mary's Catholic Church is located on 15 Myers Avenue in Denville, New Jersey. Father Martin Glynn is the head pastor of the church.

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

Regardless of your religious denomination, please feel free to submit your prayer request by email to PrayerRequest@Christian-Miracles.com. Your email will remain confidential.

Prayer request can also be submitted at the following link: http://www.christian-miracles.com/prayerrequest.htm

Mr. Lenar visits Father Richard Tartaglia on a regular bases for spiritual guidance and shares with him the prayer requests.

Saint Mary's Monthly Prayer Schedule and Related Themes for 2013

Christian Unity - Thursday, January 17 at 7:30 PM

Lent - Thursday, February 21 at 7:30 PM

Easter - Thursday, March 21 at 7:30 PM

St. Mark - Thursday, April 18 at 7:30 PM

Pentecost - Thursday, May 16 at 7:30 PM

John the Baptist - Thursday, June 20 at 7:30 PM

Mary Magdalene - Thursday, July 18 at 7:30 PM

Michaelmas Day - Thursday, September 19 at 7:30 PM

Church Memorial Day - Thursday, October 17 at 7:30 PM

Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 21 at 7:30 PM

Advent - Tentatively set for Thursday, December 19 at 7:30 PM

St. Mary's Weekly Mass Schedule

Sunday: 7:00, 8:30, 10:00, and 11:30 AM

Saturday: 5:00 PM

Weekdays: 8:00 AM and 12:05 PM - (Except June ~ Labor Day - No 12:05 PM)

First Fridays: 8:00 AM, 12:05 PM, 8:00 PM - (Except June ~ Labor Day - No 12:05 PM)

Holy Days: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 12:00 noon, 7:00 PM

Eve of Holy Days: 5:00 PM

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

A New Springtime for the Church in Ireland: Who is Saint Patrick and Why Does it Matter? - News excerpt from Catholic Online

His story still inspires us for a reason. It needs to be heard once again and written in the lives of contemporary saints for the Third Christian millennium, a new missionary age. Let us pray for the Church of Jesus Christ which St. Patrick helped to plant in Ireland. Let us ask the Lord to heal, restore and revive the whole Catholic Church.

Read More: Who is Saint Patrick and Why Does it Matter?

Drowning Victim’s Visit to Heaven

News Video - CBN.com

Mary Neal describes her experience of heaven and angels after drowning for over 15 minutes in a kayaking accident. In her book, To Heaven and Back she tells her story.

Angel in Sky Photos: South Florida Sees a Message from Above

News excerpt from WPTV.com

By Laura Santos

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - A message from above?

That’s what several South Florida residents thought after looking toward the sky on the day a new pope was named.

Most saw an angel in the clouds and grabbed their cameras to document the vision.

For some, it was a clear sign from heaven, maybe a message from God himself, showing his pleasure at the election of the first Latin American as the 267th successor of St. Peter.

Thom George wondered “if Pope Francis ordered that.”

“The Pope asked to pray for Him. .. God answered,” was Cat Sunn’s reaction.

Read more: Angel in the Sky

New Pope Greets the World Francis I

RomeReports.com

Just moments after being elected, the new Pope of the Catholic Church, Francis I, gave his first Papal 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing as he stood on the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square.

Francis I said that during the conclave the papal electors wanted someone from farther away but with the qualities of Benedict XVI. Before imparting his blessing, the new Pope asked the people to pray for him and his task ahead.

The new leader of the Catholic Church also said a few words to the thousands of people who came out to greet him. Giving a short improvised speech, was actually a tradition that John Paul I began when he was elected.

An Extended Look at "The Bible" Miniseries

The History Channel - "The Bible" Miniseries

CBN.com: Catch a glimpse of the 10-hour TV drama that tells the Biblical story of Genesis to Revelation, from executive producers Mark Burnett ("The Voice", "Survivor") and Roma Downey ("Touched by an Angel").

Pray for a New Pope to be Selected for the Catholic Church

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Please join in prayer for the Holy Spirit to guide the hearts of all Cardinals as they prepare to vote and select a new Pope in the Catholic Church.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

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'The Bible' is a History Channel Hit

The following excerpt is from The Clicker

By Drusilla Moorhouse, TODAY contributor

"The Bible" was a television ratings miracle when the History Channel miniseries premiered on Sunday (March 3, 2013).

With 13.1 million tuning in to the five-part docudrama's debut, "The Bible" smote the competition -- including the networks -- and became cable's most-watched program this year.

"Today, more people are discussing God's chosen people -- Moses and Abraham -- in one day than ever before," said Mark Burnett and his wife and producing partner Roma Downey in a History Channel statement.

But the über-producer isn't taking all the credit for "The Bible's" miraculous success.

"The hand of God was on this," Burnett told EW. "The edit came together perfectly, the actors came together perfectly, it just comes to life."

Read More: The Bible

Priorities for Next Pope: Successful Communication

News Story from RomeReports.com

Having a good message, is no longer enough. In today's world, it's essential to communicate it clearly. The Vatican has long perceived that communication is an ongoing issue, in which it needs to raise its game.

One of the last measures Benedict XVI took was hiring American journalist Greg Burke as the Vatican's media adviser, a formal role supervised by the Secretariat of State

GREG BURKE
Vatican Communications Adviser

“Things move very slow in the Vatican. I don't think we are totally up to date. But certainty in recent months, we saw the Pope go on Twitter, and I think that was positive. We saw also a hub, news.va. There had been a lot of criticism the Vatican had a website early on, but it's very slow to change. But the hub of news.va, bringing many of the Vatican news sources together, it's been very positive.”

To dialogue with society, outreach is essential. The Vatican recognized it and increased its online presence, as well as on social networks and mobile devices. But, there's one more thing the Vatican improve upon.

GREG BURKE
Vatican Communications Adviser

“I think we can learn from things that work. We can learn from things that work in other Church institutions, in local churches and we can learn from other institutions. I always use an example that might be slightly heretical, but of the UN World Food Program. They have a great website, they offer video, the have all their spokespeople, their names, the faces, the emails, the cells phone. And I thinks that's a very good kind of example.”

Communication of an international institution like the Church will pose a great challenge for whoever takes over the @Pontifex Twitter account.

Prayer to Our Lady of Mental Peace

Our Lady of Mental Peace by Stephen B. Whatley

New painting released by artist Stephen B Whatley | Flickr.com

A new 2013 tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary by expressionist artist Stephen B. Whatley; inspired by a prayer to Our Lady of Mental Peace (below) from the prayer book, The Illustrated Book of Mary (2010, William J. Hirten Co., RI, USA).

O Lady of Mental Peace,
Mother of Tranquility
and Mother of Hope,
look upon me in this time
of my weakness and unrest.
Teach my searching heart
to know that God's Love
for me is unchanging and
unchangeable, and, that
true human love can only
begin and grow by touching
His Love.

Let your gentle Peace -
which this world cannot give
- be always with me.
And, help me to bring this
same Peace into the lives
of others.

Our Lady of Mental Peace,
- Pray for me!

***

Our Lady of Mental Peace - Pastel on paper
Created on March 3, 2013
23.4 x 16.5in

To order prints from the artist, please visit his website at www.stephenbwhatley.com

THE ROSARY CHAPLET OF OUR LADY'S TEARS

YouTube Video on Praying the Chaplet

The following excerpt regarding the origin of the chaplet is from CatholicTradition.com:

Next to the Most Precious Blood of Jesus there is nothing more touching and effective than the tears of our heavenly Mother! How many tears she shed on the Way of the Cross and when she stood beneath the Cross! She shed bitter tears in reparation for the many insults her Divine Son then and which He would receive in the future. She wept bitter tears for the many souls who would not submit to the Commandments of God, and so would be lost forever.

 

This rosary or chaplet was revealed in 1929 and 1930 by Our Lord and His most holy Mother to Sister Amalia in Campina, Brazil, and was confirmed as supernatural by Bishop Campos Baretto.
 

Our Lords words to Sister Amalia on November 8, 1929 were:

 

"My daughter, whatever I am asked through the tears of My Mother, I shall give lovingly."

On March 8, 1930 the most Pure Mother stated:

 

"Through this rosary the devil will be subdued and the power of Hell will be destroyed. Prepare yourself for this great combat."

 

From CatholicExchange.com:

 

The sorrows used for meditation are also known as the seven sorrows of Mary

• the prophecy of Simeon;
• the flight into Egypt;
• the loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple;
• the meeting of Mary and Jesus as he carried His Cross;
• the Crucifixion; the striking of Jesus with the lance;
• Mary receiving the body of Jesus in her arms; and
• the Body of Jesus being placed in the tomb.

 

Read more: The Power of Tears

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Monthly Message to Mirjana Soldo

Cross of Light, Mine Hill, NJ - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Medjugorje Today - News Agency Reporting on the Virgin Mary's Apparitions in Medjugorje

Our Lady's March 2, 2013 Message to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

"Dear children! Anew, in a motherly way, I am calling you not to be of a hard heart. Do not shut your eyes to the warnings which the Heavenly Father sends to you out of love. Do you love Him above all else? Do you repent for having often forgotten that the Heavenly Father, out of His great love, sent his Son to redeem us by the Cross? Do you repent for not yet having accepted the message? My children, do not resist the love of my Son. Do not resist hope and peace. Along with your prayer and fasting, by His cross, my Son will cast away the darkness that wants to surround you and come to rule over you. He will give you the strength for a new life. Living it according to my Son, you will be a blessing and a hope to all those sinners who wander in the darkness of sin. My children, keep vigil. I, as a mother, am keeping vigil with you. I am especially praying and watching over those whom my Son called to be light-bearers and carriers of hope for you – for your shepherds. Thank you."

Emotion fills St. Peter's Square: Benedict XVI flies overhead as he leaves Vatican

News from RomeReports.com

March 1, 2013. (Romereports.com) Hundreds of emotional people filled St. Peter's Square to watch the Pope emeritus' departure from the Vatican. It was their last chance to see Benedict XVI as he boarded the white helicopter that took him through across the skyes of Rome, and to Castel Gandolfo.

Read More: Benedict XVI

Routine Surgery Opens Door to Heaven

From CBN TV

Multiple organ failure during a routine kidney stone removal put Dean Braxton's life in the balance and gave him a glimpse of the afterlife and Jesus.

Documentary Sheds New Light on Our Lady of Guadalupe Miracle

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The following excerpt is from the NCRegister:

By Celeste Behe, Register Correspondent

A barren hillside in Mexico. A humble peasant named Juan Diego. A beautiful lady. A painted tilma.

The facts surrounding the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe are known to most informed Catholics. Or are they?

 

"Ask just about any educated Catholic where Guadalupe is, and the answer you’re likely to get is ‘Mexico,’" says movie director and producer Tim Watkins. "But, in fact, Guadalupe is in Spain."

It’s a surprising piece of information, one of many revealed in the fascinating documentary The Blood and the Rose.

 

"There are numerous connections between certain events that took place in both the Holy Land and in Europe and the events which led up to Our Lady’s miraculous appearance in the New World," says Watkins. "Their convergence, more than 15 centuries in the making, was guided by the hand of divine Providence."

 

The feature-length documentary — which brings together the talents of executive producer Steve McEveety (The Passion of the Christ) and actor Eduardo Verastegui (Bella) — includes on-location interviews with experts in the fields of science, history and theology.

Their findings help to recount the "untold" part of the Guadalupe story, which, says Watkins, "doesn’t end with Juan Diego."

 

"The movie really conveys much more than the Guadalupe story," agrees Raymond Arroyo, creator and host of EWTN’s The World Over and guest speaker at the Jan. 24 premiere screening of the documentary.

Referring to the image of Guadalupe, he says that "any image that shows up 500 years after its premiere on an air freshener or a rapper’s bicep is an image firmly ensconced in the popular imagination."

 

But, as Watkins observes, key elements of the miraculous image of Our Lady of Guadalupe are usually missing from these reproductions. "This is no ordinary icon that we can just alter at will to suit different applications and tastes," he says. "God himself is the artist, and he conveys in the image numerous messages and proofs that demonstrate that it is nothing less than his word."

 

The film sheds light on many of these elements, including the pattern on Our Lady’s garment.

Read more: Documentary of  Lady of Guadalupe

Pope's last Angelus: I will not abandon the Church. I will serve in a different way

News from RomeReports.com

It was the last time that Benedict XVI appeared before his studio window to lead the Angelus as Pope. It's estimated that about 200,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square to thank the Pope for his eight year Pontificate.

Some came with banners to thank the Pope and be part of history. With only days left as Pope, Benedict XVI clearly spoke about his retirement. In Italian he said, God is asking me to serve the Church in a way that's more appropriate for my age and strength.

BENEDICT XVI
“The Lord is calling me 'out to the mountain' to devote more time to prayer and meditation, but this does not mean I'm abandoning the Church. In fact, if God is asking this of me, it's precisely to continue serving the Church with the same dedication and love with which I have served so far, but in a way that's more suited for my age and strength.”

The Pope's Angelus was repeatedly interrupted by applause and cheers. Before completing the last Angelus of his Pontificate, the Pope said he will always be close to the Church and its people.

BENEDICT XVI
“Thank you, I will always be near you.”

This Angelus was the Pope's first public appearance, following a spiritual retreat which ended on Saturday. On Monday he will meet with Cardinals of the Roman Curia and on Wednesday, he will celebrate his last General Audience in St. Peter's Square.

Rachel Lozano's recovery from cancer could be labeled a miracle by the Vatican

Rachel Lozano

The following excerpt is from KSDK.com

By Art Holliday

ST. LOUIS (KSDK) - "Whether the church says it or was or not, I believe it was a miracle."

That "M" word: miracle. During the nine years she's been cancer free, Rachel Lozano has used that word a lot, explaining over and over again why she's still among the living.

"Sometimes it's a little overwhelming at times," said Lozano. "I think of this time as my extra years on earth."

Most of Rachel's high school years at St. Joseph's Academy were spent fighting a rare and sometimes fatal form of cancer, Askin's tumor. She had multiple surgeries and underwent a bone marrow transplant. Chemotherapy claimed her hair, but she whimsically turned her bald head into a canvas for colorful artwork. In her high school graduation photo, she was smiling brightly, even though she was fighting for her life.

"It was strange. I actually had a peacefulness when I would think and pray about it," said Lozano. "I didn't know what that peacefulness meant. I didn't know if that meant dying or that meant living."

When the cancer appeared for the third time, the doctors delivered the worst news possible.

"That I pretty much had a few weeks to live at the most, depending on which organ was hit first, because the tumor recurred between my heart, lung, and spine."

During one last surgery to remove cancer, Rachel Lozano's doctors were shocked to find no cancerous tissue. The cancer was gone.

A 2000 photograph shows Lozano at the gravesite of Father William Chaminade, founder of the Marianists in 1817. She had flown to Rome to attend a ceremony honoring Father Chaminade. Feeling a strong connection to the priest, Lozano prayed to Chaminade to cure her cancer.

"He also overcame a lot of obstacles in his life and never gave up hope," said Lozano. "I see the parallels in our lives that way."

Eventually Rachel Lozano's recovery was declared to be a miracle by the St. Louis Archdiocese and the investigation was passed along to the Vatican. If the Vatican certifies that Lozano's case is a miracle, it would be the second miracle attributed to Father Chaminade, and the Pope could declare Chaminade a saint. She doesn't know if or when that will happen.

Read More: Rachel Lozano