Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Holy Peace: The Solemnity of The Blessed Virgin Mary

Holy Peace: The Solemnity of The Blessed Virgin Mary. 2015 by Stephen B Whatley


New painting by artist Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing

Reprinted with permission from the website of artist Stephen B. Whatley:

Today, February 11 is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Lourdes - commemorating the miraculous visions to St. Bernadette in France in 1858, which have lead to numerous miraculous healings throughout the world.

This new painting commissioned by Catholic collectors in the USA was uniquely inspired by the recalling of a miraculous vision, evoking love and peace, of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Spirit experienced in the past year.

Expressionist painter Stephen B. Whatley often selects significant dates to create his work and chose to begin this new tribute painting on January 1, the World Day of Peace and The Solemnity of The Blessed Virgin Mary; with a dependence on prayer, particularly to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The collectors who commissioned the work of art were introduced to the artist's work through a 2014 feature about his art by Erin Brierley in the US magazine, Saint Anthony Messenger; and overwhelmed with the painting, wish the painting to be shared publicly.

Stephen B. Whatley's work is in collections worldwide and public collections including The Royal Collection, BBC Heritage, the London Transport Museum & Westminster Cathedral - in which his exhibition, 'Paintings From Prayer' including his painting of Our Lady of Lourdes was shown in 2013.

His commission of 30 paintings for the Tower of London is reproduced permanently throughout Tower Hill Underpass that leads from Tower Hill Station to the historic Tower.

Holy Peace: The Solemnity of The Holy Spirit. 2015
Oil on canvas
32 x 24in/81 x 61cm

Private collection, North Carolina, USA.

Website: www.stephenbwhatley.com

Visit the following link to read Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist, a feature article first  published in 2011 by Catholic Life magazine. The article is reprinted on the website of www.Christian-Miracles.com.

Wednesday, February 04, 2015

Reflection of Cross Appears on House in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Photograph by Carla Chavez-Archuleta

By Loci B. Lenar

God works in mysterious ways through signs and wonders, especially during times of difficulty and while praying for assistance. He will affirm his word through divine providence and miracles.

With that in mind, Carla Chavez-Archuleta of Albuquerque, New Mexico has shared several images of a cross of light that she photographed in December of 2014 using her Samsung Galaxy Note 3.  

Carla says, "A few months back, I read the article of the Shield of Archangel Michael on http://www.christian-miracles.com/signsofangels.htm and have been in awe of this event ever since."

Same photo as above but cropped for better viewing

Carla said, "I was surprised when my husband and I were driving home Christmas Day (December, 2014) and I saw this same reflection on a home near ours.  I asked my husband to turn around to get another look.  We tried to take photos but it seemed to start to fade like it did not want to be photographed.  I saw the reflection again on the way home yesterday (December 30, 2014) and was able to get a photo. I even went to the other side of the house to see if there might be something causing the reflection, but I don't see anything that would cause that reflection."

Photograph courtesy of Carla Chavez-Archuleta

"I have been praying to Archangel Michael for months for assistance.  I still pray today as I greatly need his intercession for a miracle.  I take this as a sign that he is with me and letting me know he has everything under control."

Same photo as above but cropped for better viewing

"I just wanted to share the photo with you as you reported on the reflection in your link." Carla said.

The fact that Carla has seen a similar cross is indeed a confirmation that God continues to give us hope with signs during our time of need. He will never abandon us.

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. (Psalm 55:22)

In 2005, a Cross of Light with a surrounding shield appeared on my backyard fence in Mine Hill, NJ, while my family was experiencing a time of adversity.  I was praying for God's intervention and to Saint Michael the Archangel for protection when the image began to appear. Awaiting for God's Timing, my prayers were answered and the issues were mitigated. More information regarding my (Lenar) testimony on this matter with photographs can be read on www.Christian-Miracles.com.

Without hesitation, we should not underestimated the power of prayer. God will answer our prayers at the appropriate time. 

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)

Whatever circumstances that we may face today, God is there to give us the strength to move forward and will protect us from the storms of time.

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.  (Psalm 91:9-12)


Read more news on angels on the following link: Miraculous Signs of Archangel Michael

Tuesday, February 03, 2015

Miracles abound in the life of Sister Mila

Sister Maria Milagros Dela Cruz - photo courtesy of Linda Andrade Rodrigues

The Anchor - Official Catholic Weekly Newspaper of the Fall River Diocese, Massachusetts

By Linda Andrade Rodrigues, Anchor Correspondent

ATTLEBORO, Mass. — In the wake of Typhoon Yolanda in the Philippines, the world watched the apostolic visit of Pope Francis, including Mother Superior at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette.

Sister Maria Milagros Dela Cruz, SNDS, was born and raised in Ramon, Isabela, in the far north of the Philippines.

A visit by the pope is a great blessing to the Filipino people, according to the vibrant, animated nun, affectionately known as Sister Mila, 65.

“I watched the Mass in Manila, and it was raining,” she said. “We Filipinos don’t get discouraged when it rains. The old people would say it is a blessing from God.”

Sister Mila came from a very large family of 17 children, including eight girls and nine boys. Her parents would also adopt another son.

“I was number 10 and a blue baby,” she said. “The doctor told my aunt that they did their best, but the baby was dead. The doctor left, and then my aunt said I started crying. My aunt reported to the doctor that the baby came alive.”

Consequently, the doctor baptized the preemie Maria Milagros (Miracles).

Her siblings walked to school, which was two miles away; but Sister Mila was too weak to walk a long distance.

“My father would come with us, and he put me on his shoulders,” she said.

He also gave her a small dog so that she would never be alone. She named him Pepsi.

“I had him for 16 years,” she said.

Learning to write her long name in first grade was a trial. Her classmates’ names were short, and they would tease her, “Mary Miracles!”

“I would come home crying,” she said.

Many years later when she went to college, she was asked to translate her name into English.

“Your name is very beautiful,” said the professor. “Your name is ‘Miracles of the Cross.’”

“That teacher was very stern, but I loved him,” she said. “He was the only one who was able to tell me the meaning of my name.”

Growing up in a very poor family on a small tract of farmland, Sister Mila remembers the long years of drought.

“The La Salette Fathers came to my area and did a Novena at the farm,” she said. “They carried the cross and sang songs in Latin. We saw cracks in the soil, and you know in those cracks we found edible frogs. We could not plant rice, but God gave us frogs. We brought them to the market and sold them.”

One of the La Salette priests, Father Conrad Blanchet, gave the family a gas-powered well pump so that they could plant rice and irrigate the land. They also watered a neighbor’s field.

“We were very poor, but my mother and father always shared,” she said. “Lots of people who needed food came to our house for help, but we always had something to eat. It is a mystery.”

Sister Mila attended La Salette High School in Santiago, and that’s where she first saw a statue of Our Lady of La Salette. She learned about the weeping mother and received her calling.

“I told them I wanted to become a Sister of La Salette, even though we had none in our area,” she said.

Her formation was done in Manila at their regional house. In her fourth year, she received her veil. Through the years she served the apostolate in schools as Religious Education coordinator, guidance counselor, registrar and principal.

Three of her siblings also had vocations; two joined the La Salette missionaries and a third is a Maryknoll.

In October 2007, Sister Mila was assigned to the U.S. mission in Miami, where she served as school principal.

“The American culture was itself a challenge,” she said. “I was unprepared to deal with all the technical demands of my job, including using computers. Amazingly, I learned quickly how to do many things, and I was even able to teach others to do the same."

Now serving at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro, Sister Mila works in the shrine church as Liturgical coordinator of their 80 volunteers — acolytes, lectors, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, altar servers and sacristans — and assists the priests.

Living in Cumberland, R.I.,  about 30 minutes from the shrine, the nuns leave their house early each morning to take part in Community Prayer and Mass at the Attleboro monastery. Two nuns, one from Madagascar and the other from Connecticut, work in the gift shop. Sister Mila’s day revolves around the 12:10 and 6:30 p.m. Masses. When the nuns return to their convent at the end of the day, they go directly to the chapel to pray.

Pilgrims from all over the world worship at the shrine church, where Sister Mila offers a special ministry. She set up a box for prayer petitions and also answers prayer requests online every day.

She recalls the first time she was approached by someone in need of prayers. “Sister, I want to talk to you,” said a young mother with three small children.

“We have priests,” Sister Mila replied. “I can get you a priest.”

“No, no, Sister,” the woman said. “I want to talk to you.”

“I just came from the doctor’s office, and I was diagnosed with breast cancer,” said the woman. “I have a short time to live.”

“Don’t worry,” said Sister Mila. “I will pray.”

A year later, the priest in charge of vocations came looking for Sister Mila.

“Do you remember a lady with three children who talked to you last year?” he asked. “She wanted me to tell you that her breast cancer is gone.”

“And she’s not the only one,” said Sister Mila beaming. “You cannot believe how many prayers have been answered.”

Still a farm girl at heart, Sister Mila also tends the many beautiful live flowers that thrive at the shrine even in winter.

“We need a beautiful place for people to come and experience the nearness of God,” she said.

***

This article is reprinted with permission of Linda Andrade Rodrigues, Anchor Correspondent, Fall River, Massachusetts. First published by The Anchor on Jan 30, 2015.

Anchor Website: http://www.anchornews.org

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Prayer for Life

Photo by Loci B. Lenar
Prayer for Life

O Mary, bright dawn of the new world,
Mother of the living,
to you do we entrust the cause of life:
Look down, O Mother, upon the vast numbers
of babies to be born,
of the poor whose lives are made difficult,
of men and women who are victims of brutal violence,
of the elderly and the sick killed
by indifference or out of misguided mercy.
Grant that all who believe in your Son
may proclaim the Gospel of life
with honesty and love to the people of our time.
Obtain for them the grace
to accept that Gospel as a gift ever new,
the joy of celebrating it with gratitude
throughout their lives
and the courage to bear witness to it resolutely,
in order to build,
together with all people of good will,
the civilization of truth and love,
to the praise and glory of God,
the Creator and lover of life.

-Pope John Paul II

More Prayers: http://www.christian-miracles.com/devotionalprayers.htm

 

Monday, January 19, 2015

Time: A Video Tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.



Crosswalk.com on GodTube - Inspirational Videos



Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Join us in prayer for Christian Unity and World Peace

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Please join us in prayer at Saint Mary's Church on Thursday, January 15 at 7:30 pm. This months prayer service will focus on Christian Unity and World Peace. Saint Mary's is located on the corner of Myers Avenue and Route 46, Denville, NJ, USA.

Are you or someone in need of prayer?  If so, let our prayer ministry pray for your needs.

Prayer requests submitted through email are prayed for daily on www.Christian-miracles.com and at Saint Mary's Church during Holy Hour Adoration on Monday mornings, as well as the monthly prayer service held with Fr. Richard Tartaglia.

If you cannot attend, you can still join in prayer by praying with us for all special prayer intentions.

Many people are struggling with their finances, some are unemployed. We all have family and friends that might need prayer as well. Some may be suffering from an illness or dealing with a troubled marriage or relationship.  We are all in need of hope, especially when dealing with burdens that affect our daily lives. The world is in need of peace, especially in light of all the violence that is seen daily on the news. With ongoing persecution of Christians in the middle east and other countries as well, please us join in prayer for all of these issues to be resolved with God's mercy.

Regardless of the circumstances that you might be facing today, God cares and loves you.  Let us pray for your needs today and ask for God's divine assistance and intervention. Submit your prayer requests to PrayerRequest@Christian-Miracles.com

Visit our site and read helpful information on How to Pray.

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 bless you and answer your prayer request with favor.

For a selection of devotional prayers, please visit our website on the following link: www.christian-miracles.com/devotionalprayers.htm

Please feel free to share your testimony on how God has blessed your life or answered your prayer requests.  Please include your full name when sending your testimony.

Email to Testimonial@Christian-Miracles.com

What does scripture say about sharing your faith and testimony with others? Oh give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; Speak of all His wonderful acts. (1Chronicles 16:8-9)

For updates, please visit us on Facebook.

Sunday, January 04, 2015

Dying Man Gets a Miracle in Abandoned Church



Godvine.com - Miracles Video

Greg Thomas knew that he was dying of cancer and one source of solace was taking long walks through the country. What he didn't know, though, was that during a long walk he'd come across an abandoned Catholic church that would save him.


Friday, January 02, 2015

The Virgin Mary's Message of January 2, 2015



The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Message to Visionary Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

"Dear children, I am here among you as a mother who desires to help you to come to know the truth. While I lived your life on earth I had knowledge of the truth, and by this alone, a piece of Heaven on earth. That is why I desire the same for you, my children. The Heavenly Father desires pure hearts filled with the knowledge of the truth. He desires for you to love all those whom you meet, because I also love my Son in all of you. This is the beginning of coming to know the truth. Many false truths are being offered to you. You will overcome them with a heart cleansed by fasting, prayer, penance and the Gospel. This is the only truth and it is the truth which my Son left you. You do not need to examine it much. What is asked of you, as I also have done, is to love and to give. My children, if you love, your heart will be a home for my Son and me, and the words of my Son will be the guiding light in your life. My children, I will make use of you, apostles of love, to help all of my children to come to know the truth. My children, I have always prayed for the Church of my Son, and so I also ask the same of you. Pray that your shepherds may come to shine forth with the love of my Son. Thank you."

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

A New Year Prayer for 2015

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar
A New Year Prayer

Dear Lord,
We pray that this New Year will bring us closer to You.
May we take the time to get to know You.
Help us to truly celebrate the gifts You have graciously given us
and use them to serve You and spread Your word,

May we also see and love you in all the people we meet,
so that in turn, they can see You in us.

We know that all human relations take time
if they are to grow and deepen.
This is also true of our relations with You,
the Father and the Holy Spirit,
which must grow over the course of our lives.
In this new year,
let us realise that every action of ours
no matter how great or small
enables us to be in touch with You.
Let us accept You in our lives,
in the way it pleases You,
as Truth, to be spoken,
as Life, to be lived,
as Light, to be lighted,
as Love, to be followed,
as Joy, to be given,
as Peace, to be spread about,
as Sacrifice, to be offered among our relatives,
friends, neighbours and all people.

Amen.

(Prayer from www.Catholicdoors.com)



Thursday, December 25, 2014

The Virgin Mary's Christmas Messages of December 25, 2014


Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Our Lady of Medjugorje's message given during apparition to Medjugorje visionary Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti: 

 “Dear children! Also today, in my arms I am carrying my Son Jesus to you and I am asking from Him peace for you and peace among you. Pray to and adore my Son for His peace and joy to enter into your hearts. I am praying for you to be all the more open to prayer. Thank you for having responded to my call.”


The Virgin Mary's message given during apparition to Medjugorje visionary Jakov Colo:

"Dear children! Today, on this day of grace, I desire for each of your hearts to become a little stable of Bethlehem in which the Savior of the world was born. I am your mother who loves you immeasurably and is concerned for each of you. Therefore, my children, abandon yourselves to the mother, so that she may place each of your hearts and lives before little Jesus; because only in this way, my children, your hearts will be witnesses of God’s daily birth in you. Permit God to illuminate your lives with light and your hearts with joy, so that you may daily illuminate the way and be an example of true joy to others who live in darkness and are not open to God and His graces. Thank you for having responded to my call."
 

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Power of Prayer? 'Miracle' Priest Rises from Wheelchair and Walks



News Excerpt and photo from NBC News.com

A Catholic priest who was paralyzed from the chest down in a fall four years ago says he has proof that prayer can heal.

Doctors had told Father John Murray of Brooklyn, New York that he would never walk again after bone chips from his neck sliced into his spinal cord.

"'You should expect no voluntary movement,'" said Murray. "That's a quote. 'No voluntary movement for the rest of your life.'"

Watch Part Two of Cynthia McFadden's Two-Part Report on the Power of Prayer Tuesday on "Nightly News"

But within a year and a half after he tripped on a Jersey Shore boardwalk, the priest was able to rise from his wheelchair and walk.

"I think it's a result of prayer," said Murray. "Other people's prayers and my prayers, without a doubt."

Father Murray has a lot of company. Half of all Americans believe that prayer can heal. But medical studies increasingly show the same thing, says the medical professor who runs Duke University's Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health.

"People who are more religious just live longer; that's kind of the bottom line," said Dr. Harold Koenig.


Read More: Fr. John Murray

Wishing You a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!


May your Christmas be filled with peace and joy as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. May 2015 bring peace and prosperity to all people of good will.

Monday, December 22, 2014

Celebrate the Birth of Jesus by attending Church Services on Christmas Day




We invite you to attend Mass this Christmas. Contact your local church for Mass times and join our big Catholic family in celebrating the birth of Jesus, the reason for the Christmas season.

St. Mary's Church
15 Myers Avenue
Denville, New Jersey, 07834

Rectory: 973-627-0269

CHRISTMAS EVE, December 24th

8:00 am, 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm, 10:00 pm

CHRISTMAS DAY, December 25th

7:00 am, 8:30 am, 10:00 am, 11:30 am

Saint 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

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Advent 2014: Prepare and Celebrate the Birth of Jesus on Christmas Day!



Advent Prayer

Father, all-powerful God, your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to heart the voice which announces his glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit who prepares us for his coming. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Prayer from Catholic Online)

More Prayers:http://www.christian-miracles.com/devotionalprayers.htm

 

Sunday, December 07, 2014

Vatican Museums in 3D: Documentary will hit international big screens starting December 10th




News from RomeReports.com

About six million people visit the Vatican museums every year. For those who can't make the trip, now there's a 3D experience where viewers can see it all up close and personal. 

COSETTA LAGANI
Vatican Museums 3D, Producer 
"With this 3D footage you feel like you're actually visiting the museum. It's as if you're reaching out and touching the works or art. It seems like you're part of the frescoes, in  all their dimensions.” 

Making this happen wasn't easy. It was the first time Ultra HD/3D cameras were allowed to film inside the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Day in and day out, a team of 40 Italian crew members, were given unlimited access to priceless pieces of art. In essence, it's an attempt to make a masterpiece out of a masterpiece. 

COSETTA LAGANI
Vatican Museums 3D, Producer
"Our team covered the Vatican's Raphael rooms. We also include works by Giotto and Caravaggio. There's also some pieces from the Museum of Modern Art, done by Dali and Van Gogh.” 

After four months of post-production, a one hour documentary will hit international big screens starting December 10, 2014. More than 500 theaters will show the film, through the SpectiCast Network and the Fathom Event's Digital Broadcast Network. 

COSETTA LAGANI
Vatican Museums 3D, Producer
"The audience will never forget what it sees, because the images include so much detail. The narration that accompanies the film is also very original. It describes the history of Laocoonte, the Torso of Belvedere and of course the Sistine Chapel. You can't forget it.” 

A documentary that triggers intrigue and inspiration, based on some of the most powerful works of art, ever produced by mankind.  
 
 

Saturday, December 06, 2014

Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal by Artist Stephen B. Whatley

Our Lady Of The Miraculous Medal 2014 by Stephen B Whatley


Flickr - Photo Sharing!

The Most Recent Catholic Tribute Painting by Expressionist Artist Stephen B. Whatley

(Reprinted from the website of the artist.)

The origins of this devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal) date back to 1830, in the Chapel of The Sisters of Charity (now known as The Chapel of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal) in Paris, France, where Sister ( now Saint ) Catherine Laboure received three miraculous visitations from Our Lady informing her that She was giving her a mission.

On November 27, 1830 Sister Catherine saw a vision of Our Lady standing on a globe that the Mother of God explained represented the whole world; especially France that was experiencing great poverty during the aftermath the many wars of the time. Her foot is placed on a serpent, below her representing Satan.

Streaming from rings on Mary's fingers were many rays of light that symbolised the graces she obtains for those who ask. Framing the vision was an inscription,

"O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you"

Mother Mary instructed Sister Catherine to have a medal - now known as the Miraculous Medal - created of this image. She then showed her what should be detailed on the reverse of the medal: 12 stars encircling a large "M" from which arose a Cross, below which are two hearts, representing The Sacred Heart of Jesus and The Immaculate Heart of Mary.

The Blessed Virgin Mary told Sister Catherine that "…Those who wear the medal will receive great graces, especially if they wear it around their neck"

Painting in prayer, the artist embroidered all the elements of the Blessed Virgin Mary's instructions into his painting - with a special intention that the painting should bring light, peace, hope and blessings of healing to those who view it.

'Miraculous Medals' cut to this divine design can be bought from cathedrals, churches & Catholic shops.

A Novena (9 day prayer) to the Miraculous Medal can be see read via this link to the official website of The Chapel of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal in Paris , 140 rue du Bac, Paris, France:
www.chapellenotredamedelamedaillemiraculeuse.com/EN/h5.asp

The work of Stephen B. Whatley has been published in TIME magazine and in numerous periodicals including the Catholic press. His work can be found in collections worldwide and in public collections including the BBC Heritage, London Transport Museum, The Royal Collection, The Tower of London (where there is a permanent walkway of the artist's work at Tower Hill) and London's Westminster Cathedral which staged an exhibition of his Catholic tributes, "Paintings From Prayer" - which included a portrait of Pope Francis - in August 2013.

The Feast Day of Our Lady of The Miraculous Medal is celebrated the same day as that of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception: December 8th.

Prayers for peace and miracles of strength & healing during Advent, Christmas, and in the New Year.

Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal
Oil on canvas,
38 x 24in

Visit the following link for more artwork by the artist: www.stephenbwhatley.com

Visit the following link to read the Catholic Life article:  Stephen B. Whatley The Praying Artist

Friday, December 05, 2014

'Women of the Bible' Premieres Sunday, December 7th on Lifetime

https://www.facebook.com/BibleSeries

Mark your calendars! 'Women of the Bible' premieres Sunday, December 7, 2014 at 7/6c on Lifetime!  From Executive producers Mark Burnett and Roma Downey (Son of God and The Bible Series).

Tuesday, December 02, 2014

The Virgin Mary's Message to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

Virgin Mary

Our Lady of Medjugorje - Message of December 2, 2014

“Dear children, remember – for I am telling you that love will win. I know that many of you are losing hope because around you, you see suffering, pain, jealousy, envy… But, I am your mother. I am in the Kingdom but am also here with you. My Son is sending me anew to help you. Therefore, do not lose hope, instead, follow me – because the victory of my heart is in the name of God. My beloved Son is thinking of you as He has always thought of you. Believe Him and live Him. He is the Life of the world. My children, to live my Son means to live the Gospel. This is not easy. This means love, forgiveness and sacrifice. This purifies and it opens the Kingdom. Sincere prayer, which is not only words but is a prayer which the heart speaks, will help you. Likewise fasting (will help you), because it is still more of love, forgiveness and sacrifice. Therefore, do not lose hope but follow me. I am imploring you anew to pray for your shepherds so that they may always look to my Son who was the first Shepherd of the world and whose family was the entire world. Thank you.”


Saturday, November 29, 2014

Saint Andrew Christmas Novena

 

Lawrence OP - Flickr Photo Sharing 

Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, O My God! to hear my prayer and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen

It is piously believed that whoever recites the prayer fifteen times a day from the feast of St. Andrew (November 30th) until Christmas (December 25th) will obtain what is asked.

 The novena is not actually addressed to Saint Andrew but to God Himself, asking Him to grant our request in the honor of the birth of His Son at Christmas. 

(Imprimatur: +MICHAEL AUGUSTINE, Archbishop of New York, New York, February 6, 1897)

More Devotional Prayers

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Wishing Everyone a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/jesus/images/27062498/title/jesus-thanksgiving-photo


Thanksgiving Prayer

Father in Heaven, Creator of all and source of all goodness and love, please look kindly upon us and receive our heartfelt gratitude in this time of giving thanks.

Thank you for all the graces and blessings. You have betowed upon us, spiritual and temporal: our faith and religious heritage. Our food and shelter, our health, the loves we have for one another, our family and friends.

Dear Father, in Your infinite generosity, please grant us continued graces and blessing throughout the coming year.

This we ask in the Name of Jesus, Your Son and our Brother. Amen.

Visit the following link for More Devotional Prayers.

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Virgin Mary's Message of November 25, 2014

Our Lady of Medjugorje

Medjugorje WebSite - Our Lady of Medjugorje Messages and Apparitions

Our Lady's message conveyed to Medjugorje visionary Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti:

“Dear children! In a special way, today I am calling you to prayer. Pray, little children, so that you may comprehend who you are and where you need to go. Be carriers of the good news and be people of hope. Be love for all those who are without love. Little children, you will be everything and will achieve everything only if you pray and are open to God’s will – to God who desires to lead you towards eternal life. I am with you and intercede for you from day to day before my Son Jesus. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Mary of Nazareth - Two Part Mini-Series on EWTN



Beginning November 22, 2014, EWTN presents “Mary of Nazareth”, a two-part mini-series that depicts the Virgin Mary from her childhood through the Resurrection of Jesus, capturing the essence of her profound faith and trust in God.

Don’t miss “Mary of Nazareth”! Part 1 airs 8 p.m. ET, Saturday, November 22 and Part 2 airs 8 p.m. ET, Saturday, November 27 -- exclusively on EWTN!

Find EWTN at www.ewtn.com/channelfinder.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Exodus: Gods and Kings




Official Final Trailer [HD] | 20th Century FOX - YouTube

From director Ridley Scott (Gladiator, Prometheus) comes the epic adventure "Exodus: Gods and Kings," in Theaters - December 12, 2014. 

Moses (Christian Bale) rises up against the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses (Joel Edgerton), setting 400,000 slaves on a monumental journey of escape from Egypt and its cycle of deadly plagues.

Cast includes: Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro, Aaron Paul, Ben Mendelsohn, Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Mary, Did You Know? New Christmas Video by Pentatonix




Official Video - Pentatonix - YouTube

Mary, Did you Know? Beautifully sung by the five member band, Pentatonix. Just in time for Christmas!

The song is published in the new Holiday album, "That's Christmas To Me," and is available from iTunes.


Review from iTunes: 

Pentatonix's fourth studio album and second holiday-themed release, 2014's That's Christmas to Me, showcases more of the innovative a cappella group's electronic dance music-influenced vocal sound.

The album comes on the heels of the group's other 2014 release, PTX, Vol. 3, and two years after the Yuletide EP PTXmas. Here, the former NBC Sing-Off season three champions perform a bevy of Christmas classics including "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy," "Silent Night," and others, as well as the newly minted title track original.

Monday, November 17, 2014

Image of Virgin Mary grows on tree in Iowa

Excerpt from CodeWit World News

What you believe about the mysterious image on the tree in Polk City, Iowa likely depends on your personal belief system. Whether it is a case of divine intervention or simply the mind playing tricks on you doesn’t seem to matter. Each will see what he wants to see.

Read More: Image of Virgin Mary grows on tree in Iowa

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Miraculous Prayer to St. Joseph in Any Urgent Need



Pauline Books and Media Digital - YouTube

This Miraculous Prayer from the 16th century has brought help to many in their hours of greatest need. Jesus listened to St. Joseph while on earth and still listens to him now when he intercedes for our needs.

Thursday, November 06, 2014

Guardian Angels Watch Over Us

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

Catholic Weekly Newspaper of the Fall River Diocese - AnchorNews.org

By Linda Andrade Rodrigues, Anchor Correspondent

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — Guardian angels are the servants and messengers of God.

“How great the dignity of the soul, since each one has from his birth an angel commissioned to guard it,” St. Jerome said.

The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” teaches that as purely Spiritual creatures, angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures, as the splendor of their glory bears witness.

“The Holy Spirit advises me,” and “there’s the angel who advises me,” said Pope Francis. “Nobody walks alone, and none of us can believe we are alone.”

Nine years ago I interviewed a devout Catholic who believes she had an encounter with an angel. She works in marketing and lives in Rhode Island. She shared her story on the condition of anonymity.

Sitting in the front passenger seat of her boyfriend’s car, the woman, along with her two girlfriends, was riding around town late one night.

Out of the blue, a car cut them off running them off the road. Spinning out of control, they crashed into a telephone pole.

“I remember the point of impact,” she said. “I was holding onto the door with a death grip to brace myself as we hit the pole.”

Her boyfriend and friends managed to crawl out of the crushed car, but she was trapped inside.
“I remember not being able to feel my legs,” she said. “I panicked because I couldn’t catch my breath.”

The telephone pole was inside the car; her feet were in the engine compartment.

“I actually saw my life flash before my eyes at the moment of impact,” she said. “I remember seeing family members who had passed on.”

She heard their voices calling to her.

Then she saw a hand coming through the twisted metal. She reached for it.

“I’m a nurse,” the person said.

She told the nurse about the voices.

“Don’t listen to them,” the nurse said. “You’re going to be fine. It’s not your time yet.”

It would take more than an hour for emergency personnel to cut her out of the car with the Jaws of Life. All the while, she kept asking for the nurse who had promised not to leave her.

But the paramedics told her, “There’s nobody here. We’re going to take care of you.”

Her injuries were grave. Her legs and pelvis were shattered, she had massive internal injuries and bleeding, as well as a blood clot. She received Last Rites.

She spent three months in the hospital’s trauma unit, and it would take a year of intensive physical therapy for her to walk again.

A short time after her discharge from the hospital, she arranged to meet the paramedics who had saved her life.

“They couldn’t believe I was there,” she said. “They assumed I wasn’t going to make it.”
Once again, she asked them about the nurse. They told her there was a witness walking his dog in the woods, but there was no nurse.

“It may have been your mind playing games with you,” the paramedic said. “Your body was in shock.”

Today she bears few scars from the accident that nearly took her life. She is married to her boyfriend, the driver of the car, and is convinced a guardian angel came to her on the night of the accident.
“I still feel she’s watching over me,” she said. “I always feel protected.”

A resident of Mine Hill, N.J., Loci Lenar reports news of Christian signs and wonders on his blog and website — “Angels, Wonders and Miracles of Faith” (http://lenarpoetry.blogspot.com) and “Signs, Wonders and Miracles” (www.Christian-Miracles.com) — which have recorded over a million page views.

Lenar also documents his own spiritual encounters, following instructions from his spiritual advisor, Father Richard Tartaglia of St. Mary’s Church in Denville, N.J.

Sharing his experiences, he has been interviewed several times for the program “Sacred Treasures” on the international Catholic station Radio Maria, which is broadcast locally by the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate of Our Lady’s Chapel in New Bedford at 88.5 FM (WPMW).

Lenar often visits churches to photograph stained glass windows and statues to use on his website and blog.

Five years ago he stopped to pray at The Church of St. Michael in Netcong, N.J., and photographed a statue of St. Michael the Archangel.

“Without the flash, you see the striking rainbow beyond the statue and around the arms,” he told me. “I gave the small memory card to Father Richard.”

Catholics invoke St. Michael the Archangel in prayer for physical protection.

Lenar said that Jesus is calling people to pray for divine protection, not just for their families but for the world.

“We are living in difficult times, but through prayer we could change things,” he said. “The message is now more important than ever before to invoke the powerful name of Jesus and to pray for the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel to protect our families and nation, especially in light of the violence surrounding our world and the Middle East.”

Two years ago thieves broke into the basement of St. Bernard Catholic Church in Assonet, causing massive damage to the property, pilfering church offerings and leaving behind a feeling of unease that this sacred ground had been violated.

Consequently, Father Michael Racine inserted the Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel in the front cover of church missals.

Just before the closing rites at every Mass, the congregation invokes the saint’s protection:
“St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness 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, cast into hell Satan and all evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.”

Sunday, November 02, 2014

The Virgin Mary's Monthly Message from Medjugorje



Our Lady of Medjugorje's Message of November 2, 2014 Conveyed to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

“Dear children, I am with you with the blessing of my Son, with you who love me and who strive to follow me. I also desire to be with you who do not accept me. To all of you I am opening my heart full of love and I am blessing you with my motherly hands. I am a mother who understands you. I lived your life and lived through your sufferings and joys. You who are living the pain understand my pain and suffering because of those of my children who do not permit the light of my Son to illuminate them; those of my children who are living in darkness. This is why I need you – you who have been illuminated by the light and have comprehended the truth. I am calling you to adore my Son so that your soul may grow and reach true spirituality. My apostles, it is then that you will be able to help me. To help me means to pray for those who have not come to know the love of my Son. In praying for them you are showing to my Son that you love Him and follow Him. My Son promised me that evil will never win, because you, the souls of the just, are here; you who strive to say your prayers with the heart; you who offer your pain and suffering to my Son; you who comprehend that life is only a blink; you who yearn for the Kingdom of Heaven. All of this makes you my apostles and leads you towards the victory of my heart. Therefore, my children, purify your hearts and adore my Son. Thank you.”

Daily Prayer for the Holy Souls

Photo by Loci B. Lenar
 
Prayer of the Day for Sunday, November 2, 2014 - (All Souls Day)
 
Daily Prayer for the Holy Souls

Immortal God, holy Lord, ...
Father and Protector of all You have created,
we raise our hearts to You today for those
who have passed out of this mortal life.

In Your loving mercy, Father of all,
be pleased to receive them in Your heavenly company,
and forgive the failings and faults
they may have done from human frailty.

Your only Son, Christ, our Saviour,
suffered so cruelly that
He might deliver them from the second death.
By his merits may they share in the glory
of His victory over sin and death.

For all the faithful who have died we pray,
but in particular for those dear to us,
parents, relatives and friends.
nor do we forget all who did good to us while on earth,
who helped us by their prayers, sacrifice and example.
We pray also for any who may have done us harm,
and stand in special need of Your forgiveness.

May the merits and prayers of our Virgin Mother,
Mary, and those of all the Angels and Saints,
speak for us and assist them now.
This we ask in Christ's name.
Amen

(Prayer from Catholic Online)

Photographs Copyright Loci B. Lenar
www.Christian-miracles.com

Saturday, November 01, 2014

Prayers for All Saints Day and All Souls Day

 
Hall of Saints
 
On November 1 the Catholic church celebrates All Saints Day followed by All Souls Day on November 2. All Saints Day commemorates every saint, known and unknown by the Catholic church. All Souls Day is a  day of remembrance for loved ones and friends who have passed away.


Prayer in Praise of the Saints

How shining and splendid are your gifts, O Lord
which you give us for our eternal well-being
Your glory shines radiantly in your saints, O God
In the honour and noble victory of the martyrs.
The white-robed company follow you,
bright with their abundant faith;
They scorned the wicked words of those with this world's power.
For you they sustained fierce beatings, chains, and torments,
they were drained by cruel punishments.
They bore their holy witness to you
who were grounded deep within their hearts;
they were sustained by patience and constancy.
Endowed with your everlasting grace,
may we rejoice forever
with the martyrs in our bright fatherland.
O Christ, in your goodness,
grant to us the gracious heavenly realms of eternal life.

(Unknown author, 10th century)

Prayer for All Souls Day
 
Lord God,
you are the glory of believers
and the life of the just.
Your son redeemed us
by dying and rising to life again.
Since our departed brothers and sisters
believed in the mystery of our resurrection,
let them share the joys and blessings
of the life to come.

Photograph of the Hall of Candles at the Shrine of Saint Joseph, Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ, USA.

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

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Prayer of the Day: Psalm 111




Psalm 111

Praise the Lord.
I will extol the Lord with all my heart
in the council of the upright and in the assembly.

Great are the works of the Lord;
they are pondered by all who delight in them.
Glorious and majestic are his deeds,
and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wonders to be remembered;
the Lord is gracious and compassionate.
He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever.

He has shown his people the power of his works,
giving them the lands of other nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established for ever and ever,
enacted in faithfulness and uprightness.
He provided redemption for his people;
he ordained his covenant forever—
holy and awesome is his name.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise. (NIV)



More Prayers - Psalm 91: A Prayer for God's Divine Protection

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Pray for God's Light to Shine on the World

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The following scripture is a reflection on those who start false rumors and make false accusations because of evil intentions.

"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (Ephesians 4:31)

With that in mind, let us petition our Heavenly Father in prayer to bring an end to disrespectful behavior, and to remove the darkness that can surround a soul that has turned away from God. May peace reign down from heaven and bless all with the Light of Jesus Christ.


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

Sunlight is creating a reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Statue photographed in front of St. Vincent Martyr Parish, 26 Green Village Road, Madison, New Jersey, USA.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Prayer of the Day for Tuesday, October 28, 2014



Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

O most holy heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing, I adore you, I love you, and with lively sorrow for my sins I offer you this poor heart of mine. Make me humble, patient, pure and wholly obedient to your will. Grant, Good Jesus, that I may live in you and for you. Protect me in the midst of danger. Comfort me in my afflictions. Give me health of body, assistance in my temporal needs, your blessing on all that I do, and the grace of a holy death. Amen.

More Prayers: Prayer of Confidence to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Sunday, October 26, 2014

Novena to Saint Therese of Lisieux

"Each small task of everyday life is part of the harmony of the universe." - Saint Therese of Lisieux



The Twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s” Novena

The Twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s” novena can be said at any time. However, the ninth to the seventeenth of the month is particularly recommended, for on those days the petitioner joins in prayer with all those making the novena.

The “Glory be to the Father” praising the Holy Trinity is said twenty-four times each of the nine days, in thanksgiving for all the blessings and favors given to Saint Therese of the Child Jesus during the twenty-four years of her life. In addition, this, or a similar prayer may be used:

“Holy Trinity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, I thank Thee for all the blessings and favors Thou hast showered upon the soul of Thy servant Therese of the Child Jesus, during the twenty-four years she spent here on earth, and in consideration of the merits of this Thy most beloved Saint, I beseech Thee to grant me this favor, if it is in accordance with Thy most Holy Will and is not an obstacle to my salvation.”

After this Prayer, follow the twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s,” between each of which may be included this short prayer: “Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, pray for us.”

Intercessory Prayers to St. Therese

A Prayer to Jesus for Healing

Prayer of the Day for Sunday, October 26, 2014


A Prayer to Jesus for Healing

Dear Lord, You are the Just judge, Holy and True. You are the Most High God. You give us life. You hold all power in your hands.

You are the Mighty one from God who carries the world, and is ruler over all the earth. You Oh Most Blessed One are the giver of life. In you are only good things. In you is mercy and love. In you is healing of the nations. In you is freedom of worry and freedom of pain.

Lord Almighty, You loved us so much. You were sent from your Father, sent to save us from destruction. We truly can never make it to Heaven without the help of Jesus the Son, who was sent to earth to help us.

You, Lord are full of mercy and grace, please forgive us for our faults. Lord Jesus, in you all healing is performed. You Lord are the miracle worker. In your Spirit, your gift of healing is alive. In you Lord we can put our trust that you can heal us, and protect us from the enemy, and death of our soul.

You, Lord are miracle worker for the sick, and for the lost souls. You, Lord forgive us and save us from condemnation. You cleanse us and make us born again new. You give us a clean heart full of peace. You Lord are the Light.

In You is all truth. Your way Lord is the way to Heavenly Hope. Your hands Lord created the universe. You Lord are the True giver of Life. Every child is a miracle of Life. Life rests in Your Hands.

Wrap us as a close knit family, draw us near to you Lord, and bind us with your Loving Hands. Let us be drawn closer to You. You are the Vine, dear Lord and we are the branches. You carry all knowledge and all power. You Lord are our medicine. Your Words Lord are Truth and Life.

Help us put our trust in You. You Lord are the greatest physician. You heal, You protect, You care, You love, You are kind, You are patient, You are thoughtful, You are strength. You Lord are our Creator.

You know our thoughts, our sighings and our cryings and every hair on our head. You are Wonderful and make all good things for us. Heal us Lord, if it be Your will. Amen

***

Prayerful Healing for Children: http://www.christian-miracles.com/prayerfulhealing.htm

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Message of October 25, 2014

The Virgin Mary's message to Medjugorje visionary Marija Pavlovic-Lunetti:

“Dear children! Pray in this time of grace and seek the intercession of all the saints who are already in the light. From day to day may they be an example and encouragement to you on the way of your conversion. Little children, be aware that your life is short and passing. Therefore, yearn for eternity and keep preparing your hearts in prayer. I am with you and intercede before my Son for each of you, especially for those who have consecrated themselves to me and to my Son. Thank you for having responded to my call.”

All the Virgin Mary's messages from Medjugorje in 2014: http://www.medjugorjetoday.tv/messages2014/

Wednesday, October 08, 2014

THE VIRGIN MARY FORMED IN WAX FROM MEDJUGORJE CANDLE


Sunday, October 05, 2014

New Jersey Nun Beatified


East meets West in America’s new Blessed - News excerpt and photo from Vatican Radio

(Vatican Radio) “It’s interesting that God has chosen to honour a contemplative instead of an activist for the next American to be beatified,” said Bishop Kurt Burnette of the Byzantine Ruthenian Catholic Eparchy of Passaic. He was speaking to Vatican Radio about Sister Miriam Teresa Demjanovich, who was beatified on Saturday in New Jersey.

Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, Sr. Miriam Teresa is the fourth American-born woman to be beatified. However, this is the first time that the Rite of Beatification will take place on U.S. soil. Cardinal Angelo Amato, the prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, presided the ceremony, which took place in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

The process of investigation was opened in 1945 to investigate the sanctity of Sr. Miriam Teresa’s life. She was raised in the Byzantine Ruthenian Church and taught for a brief period in Jersey City, before entering the convent of the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth in 1925.

Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to Sr. Miriam Therese when a young boy who lost his eyesight due to macular degeneration was cured after prayers through her intercession. For Bishop Burnette, this miracle along with her profound humility, spirituality and insight are clear signs of God’s confirmation of her sanctity. “I don’t believe we really choose who is going to be canonized, God does,” he concluded.


Read more: Vatican Radio