Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Prayers For Those In Need
Sometimes need is obvious. Sometimes, it comes in the form of prayer requests. Sometimes, it comes when you see the need in person. Sometimes, it comes in the form of anonymous letters filled with anti-Catholic rhetoric printed from hate-filled websites. After a lot of contemplation and discussion since mail time yesterday, Dave and I have decided our best course of action in dealing with this person is to pray for them. Our prayers are for God to teach his or her heart with compassion, acceptance, and love for others.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Letters from Anonymous
First of all, only cowards send out anonymous information. Second, if you are going to send anonymous anti-Catholic information via United States Postal Service, you should make sure the information you include is at least timely, after all the information still claims Pope John Paul II is alive. Third, it is always interesting to be able to see exactly where and when the information was printed prior to it being mailed out.
At some point, I will have more to say on this particular subject, but right now, I am just plain irritated.
At some point, I will have more to say on this particular subject, but right now, I am just plain irritated.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
More First Communion
Yesterday, I wrote about the 10am Mass for First Communion. It wasn't our only First Communion Mass, however. We also had the noon Spanish Mass. Fourteen children received their First Communion. Originally, we had expected 13, but one was unable to receive here. Then, surprisingly, we had two extras. I will need to touch base with the DRE to make sure their paperwork is in order and their certificates are issued.
It was an entirely different atmosphere than at the 10am Mass. There had been a miscommunication somewhere along the line. Mass started around 1215 because of the time overrun for the 10am Mass. Some of the families had been told Mass wasn't going to begin until 1230. There were a few First Communicants taking their places in their pews during the second reading.
There are different traditions, probably culturally related, which are very moving. Each of the Communicants was escorted down the center aisle by his or her Godparents. The children each had their own pew for their family.
During the "Our Father", each of the Communicants stood at the front of the Church, facing the pews. Their Godparents stood behind them. Each had a candle which was lit by Father immediately prior to the prayer.
Four of the girls served as ushers during the collection. Then they brought the gifts forward. Each bowed and returned to their pew.
They received their First Communion, surrounded by their families. Many, many pictures were taken. I even saw a few camcorders.
Afterward, it was like a small party in the Church. The First Communicants posed for pictures with the priest. Then they posed with their Godparents. After that were the pictures with the family. We even had one ask us to pose with her.
It was a very blessed day.
It was an entirely different atmosphere than at the 10am Mass. There had been a miscommunication somewhere along the line. Mass started around 1215 because of the time overrun for the 10am Mass. Some of the families had been told Mass wasn't going to begin until 1230. There were a few First Communicants taking their places in their pews during the second reading.
There are different traditions, probably culturally related, which are very moving. Each of the Communicants was escorted down the center aisle by his or her Godparents. The children each had their own pew for their family.
During the "Our Father", each of the Communicants stood at the front of the Church, facing the pews. Their Godparents stood behind them. Each had a candle which was lit by Father immediately prior to the prayer.
Four of the girls served as ushers during the collection. Then they brought the gifts forward. Each bowed and returned to their pew.
They received their First Communion, surrounded by their families. Many, many pictures were taken. I even saw a few camcorders.
Afterward, it was like a small party in the Church. The First Communicants posed for pictures with the priest. Then they posed with their Godparents. After that were the pictures with the family. We even had one ask us to pose with her.
It was a very blessed day.
First Communion
56 second and third graders received their First Communion at the 10am Mass today. Another fourteen, starting at 2nd grade, received their First Communion at the noon Mass. It is a pretty awesome experience to witness that many people participating in the Sacrament for the first time. There were more than 800 people in Mass at 10am. It was wall to wall people, all the way to the back of the balcony.
Each of the kids played an instrumental role in the Mass. The Mass opened with a number of the kids playing piano pieces. Then, ten kids each brought a rose forward to be placed in a vase on the altar. All of the children were escorted down the center aisle by their parents. They bowed at the front before they turned and walked to their pews.
The first two readings were done by five of the First Communicants. Then another eight read the Prayers of the Faithful. After the homily, the altar was dressed. I think that is my favorite part of the Mass. The transition from bare wood to ready to serve the Eucharist brings tears to my eyes.
They received their First Communion as family units, each child flanked by both parents. They returned to their pews. At the end, all of the First Communicants stood on the altar and sang their First Communion song before they were dismissed two by two. It was truly awe-inspiring.
Each of the kids played an instrumental role in the Mass. The Mass opened with a number of the kids playing piano pieces. Then, ten kids each brought a rose forward to be placed in a vase on the altar. All of the children were escorted down the center aisle by their parents. They bowed at the front before they turned and walked to their pews.
The first two readings were done by five of the First Communicants. Then another eight read the Prayers of the Faithful. After the homily, the altar was dressed. I think that is my favorite part of the Mass. The transition from bare wood to ready to serve the Eucharist brings tears to my eyes.
They received their First Communion as family units, each child flanked by both parents. They returned to their pews. At the end, all of the First Communicants stood on the altar and sang their First Communion song before they were dismissed two by two. It was truly awe-inspiring.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Meatless Fridays
As a family, we abstain from meat on Fridays year round. We do not restrict our abstinence to the season of Lent. Sometimes, this is easier than others. Rarely do we eat out on a Friday, unless we order a cheese pizza for delivery. We prefer to keep our entertaining to Saturday nights, if we are doing any weekend entertaining.
Life, however, has a tendency to interrupt. Many school related evening functions happen on Friday nights rather than Saturdays. Quite a few of these activities involve food. It isn't always easy to stick with the program. Meat based foods are more commonly served. At that point, it is decision time. Is it an opportunity to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us? Is it "ok" to cheat "just this once" and have the meat based food? Is it embarrassing or does the choice regarding meat draw unwanted attention?
We had the middle school lock in at school tonight. Pizza was the primary food, supplemented with chips and cookies. Christian's favorite kind of pizza is pepperoni. Tonight, I saw he choose cheese pizza. I didn't prompt him in any way. He just choose to bypass the pepperoni.
I am hopeful this is the sign of a good foundation he is willing to build on as he grows and matures.
Life, however, has a tendency to interrupt. Many school related evening functions happen on Friday nights rather than Saturdays. Quite a few of these activities involve food. It isn't always easy to stick with the program. Meat based foods are more commonly served. At that point, it is decision time. Is it an opportunity to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us? Is it "ok" to cheat "just this once" and have the meat based food? Is it embarrassing or does the choice regarding meat draw unwanted attention?
We had the middle school lock in at school tonight. Pizza was the primary food, supplemented with chips and cookies. Christian's favorite kind of pizza is pepperoni. Tonight, I saw he choose cheese pizza. I didn't prompt him in any way. He just choose to bypass the pepperoni.
I am hopeful this is the sign of a good foundation he is willing to build on as he grows and matures.
Morning Prayer
Our room is arranged so the bed is tucked into one corner. The headboard is against one wall and the side of the bed is against another. One side of the bed has open floor space. That is the side Dave sleeps on. I sleep by the wall.
This morning when I woke up, there was a dog between me and the free floor space. She was being more than a little stubborn and didn't want to move. I told Dave this must mean I was supposed to stay in bed and he was supposed to put the kids on the bus.
Carter was just coming out of the bathroom and has a wonderful ability to hear anything anyone says. His response? "What about morning prayer??" He sounded just appalled I would skip the opportunity for morning prayer to sleep in.
This morning when I woke up, there was a dog between me and the free floor space. She was being more than a little stubborn and didn't want to move. I told Dave this must mean I was supposed to stay in bed and he was supposed to put the kids on the bus.
Carter was just coming out of the bathroom and has a wonderful ability to hear anything anyone says. His response? "What about morning prayer??" He sounded just appalled I would skip the opportunity for morning prayer to sleep in.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Preparation for First Eucharist
A school year of preparation is in the process of drawing to a close. Primarily second grade students from the Catholic School and Faith Formation program, 68 children are days away from receiving their First Eucharist. Tonight is the practice session for the 10am Sunday Mass.
56 second and third grade students will receive at the 10am Mass. Each of them will have a special part in the Mass. Some will do the readings. Others will say the prayer intentions. More still will be involved in the presentation of the gifts and dressing of the altar. Older siblings will be the servers and greeters for the Mass.
They will have the opportunity tonight to come together as an entire group and rehearse their parts as a final preparation for Sunday.
Last Sunday, the remaining 12 practiced for the noon Mass. For them, it is now just a countdown until their Mass. They are all in our prayers in these final days of spiritual preparation.
56 second and third grade students will receive at the 10am Mass. Each of them will have a special part in the Mass. Some will do the readings. Others will say the prayer intentions. More still will be involved in the presentation of the gifts and dressing of the altar. Older siblings will be the servers and greeters for the Mass.
They will have the opportunity tonight to come together as an entire group and rehearse their parts as a final preparation for Sunday.
Last Sunday, the remaining 12 practiced for the noon Mass. For them, it is now just a countdown until their Mass. They are all in our prayers in these final days of spiritual preparation.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Kids Against Hunger
Faith Formation classes, as are regularly held, are done for the year. We have two class times left before the year is officially over. Today, we will have a work day at our local armory. Next week will be the closing celebrations. In between, we will celebrate the First Eucharist for 69 young people in our parish.
During Lent, the children in both the Faith Formation and the Catholic School programs raised money to package food for underprivileged families. It is part of our mission and has been for the past several years. The expectation for each of the family formation families will be an hour of service in set up, packaging, or clean up. This is an opportunity to put our talk into action.
I look forward to spending the time with the boys today, working together on packaging meals.
During Lent, the children in both the Faith Formation and the Catholic School programs raised money to package food for underprivileged families. It is part of our mission and has been for the past several years. The expectation for each of the family formation families will be an hour of service in set up, packaging, or clean up. This is an opportunity to put our talk into action.
I look forward to spending the time with the boys today, working together on packaging meals.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Christian Turns 13
I am not sure how this happened. It feels like yesterday, we brought home a tiny, orange baby from the hospital, with all of the blessings and miracles his birth brought into our lives. He is now a teenager. First of all, I am not old enough to be the mother of a teenager. Second of all, it is not possible he has lived enough experiences to be a teenager already.
He is caught in the middle ground of childhood and manhood. I am blessed to be walking this path with him. I am looking forward to continuing the journey.
He is caught in the middle ground of childhood and manhood. I am blessed to be walking this path with him. I am looking forward to continuing the journey.
Inaccurate Representation on Television
Watching television has a tendency to irritate me. I enjoy watching many shows, but there are little components which bother me. My favorite shows are CSI, CSI: Miami, CSI: New York and NCIS. People die in those shows. Rarely does anyone check a pulse and even more rarely does anyone attempt CPR. As a CPR and First Aid instructor for more than a decade, it puts my teeth on edge every time I see it. I didn't think anything could be more annoying.
I was wrong.
Today, I watched a rerun of Cold Case. One of the early scenes involved the man in charge of the Cold Case Unit speaking with his brother the priest. A man who had come to him for confession years before had recently died. The priest gave his brother a direction to go on an old case involving a young boy who drowned based on the confession, which was okay because the man was now dead.
Nope, skipping pulse checks and CPR is not annoying at all. Why do people think they can take creative license with something as serious as the sacraments? It is so inappropriate it isn't even funny. How many people will view this episode and wonder if their secret confession will someday be fodder for discussion because they are dead? How many who don't know how the Sacrament of Reconciliation really works will leave that show with a skewed understanding of the Sacrament? How much fuel will be given to the fire of those who are not Catholic, who belittle, in particular, the Sacrament of Reconciliation because they don't understand and this representation supports their view of reality?
I was wrong.
Today, I watched a rerun of Cold Case. One of the early scenes involved the man in charge of the Cold Case Unit speaking with his brother the priest. A man who had come to him for confession years before had recently died. The priest gave his brother a direction to go on an old case involving a young boy who drowned based on the confession, which was okay because the man was now dead.
Nope, skipping pulse checks and CPR is not annoying at all. Why do people think they can take creative license with something as serious as the sacraments? It is so inappropriate it isn't even funny. How many people will view this episode and wonder if their secret confession will someday be fodder for discussion because they are dead? How many who don't know how the Sacrament of Reconciliation really works will leave that show with a skewed understanding of the Sacrament? How much fuel will be given to the fire of those who are not Catholic, who belittle, in particular, the Sacrament of Reconciliation because they don't understand and this representation supports their view of reality?
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Doubting Thomas
Today's Gospel reading was the story of the apostle Thomas, and his doubts about the others having seen actually seen Jesus. Father's reflection on the Gospel wasn't strictly on the "Doubting Thomas" component, but more on who Thomas the man really was. I had never considered who the man himself was. It is easy to judge based on the perception you have of the actions another takes. I know I have judged based on behavior before. It isn't something I am proud of, but I have had a gut reaction based strictly on what I saw and how I perceived what I had seen. I have reacted according to my perceptions.
It was a reminder there is more to the story than meets the eye.
It was a reminder there is more to the story than meets the eye.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Liberal Catholic versus Conservative Catholic
What exactly is the point of the discussion of "Liberal Catholicism" versus "Conservative Catholicism"? How is it possible to be either liberal or conservative? Catholicism is Catholicism, with its rules and regulations, traditions, sacraments, music, prayers. Maybe if we remembered that more often, and focused on living a Catholic life, we would be in a better place.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Youth Activities
Our parish hosted a "Guys Night Out" event this evening for the 6th through 8th grade boys. There were around 25 boys who attended tonight. They were able to play on the Wii, play cards, play touch football and have a feast of tacos and ice cream.
I am excited about the number of activities our parish has been offering to the youth this past year. There have been several Friday evening events. I appreciate the opportunity for our sons to be able to spend an evening with people their age in a supervised setting with age appropriate activities. It is a relief to know they are developing friendships with kids who share a similar belief system.
I am excited about the number of activities our parish has been offering to the youth this past year. There have been several Friday evening events. I appreciate the opportunity for our sons to be able to spend an evening with people their age in a supervised setting with age appropriate activities. It is a relief to know they are developing friendships with kids who share a similar belief system.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Countdown to First Communion
Dave and I are nearing the end of our time with this year's class preparing for First Communion. We have had our last actual class session. Today was the planning session for the teachers as the students' roles in the Mass were outlined. This Sunday will be the practice for the Hispanic Mass. Next week will be the practice. A week from Sunday will be the Mass. This year, we have twenty one children in our class. There will be a total of 72 children receiving this Sacrament within the next ten days in our local area.
They will have one more weekly Mass before they are able to fully participate in the Eucharist. It has been a privilege to have spent this time with them. I can hardly wait to witness their next steps toward full participation in the Catholic Church.
They will have one more weekly Mass before they are able to fully participate in the Eucharist. It has been a privilege to have spent this time with them. I can hardly wait to witness their next steps toward full participation in the Catholic Church.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Christian Film Festival
We were watching the Duggar family and their show "18 Kids and Counting" this evening. There was a re-run of an episode from shortly after the littlest Duggar was born. The entire family traveled to the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival. It was an opportunity for their family, from the littlest ones on up, to enjoy some time together in a movie theater watching films appropriate for all levels but still entertaining for everyone.
The movies that were featured look interesting. I could see a number of them appearing on our NetFlix movie queue. I am not convinced, though, our movie viewing should be restricted completely to films approved by this entity or a similar one. It is important to portray solid Christian values in film-making. Christianity encompasses more than one specific religion and sometimes the ideals of Christian living becomes more narrowly focused. Like any other area, personal discretion will still come in to play.
Here is the link to the festival I mentioned, if you are interested in checking out the recommended movies:
San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival
The movies that were featured look interesting. I could see a number of them appearing on our NetFlix movie queue. I am not convinced, though, our movie viewing should be restricted completely to films approved by this entity or a similar one. It is important to portray solid Christian values in film-making. Christianity encompasses more than one specific religion and sometimes the ideals of Christian living becomes more narrowly focused. Like any other area, personal discretion will still come in to play.
Here is the link to the festival I mentioned, if you are interested in checking out the recommended movies:
San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival
Monday, April 13, 2009
Asking For Prayers
I received a heartfelt email today, asking me, specifically, to pray for a friend who was in need. What an awesome responsibility. Asking for prayers isn't just something to say in passing. Stating you will pray for someone shouldn't just be lip service. Prayer is powerful, all-encompassing, and a gift, not one to be taken lightly.
Lord, I ask you be present with those in need today. Please bring peace and justice to those who seek it. Please let them feel your presence to know they are not alone. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Lord, I ask you be present with those in need today. Please bring peace and justice to those who seek it. Please let them feel your presence to know they are not alone. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Jesus Christ is Risen!
Today is the first day of the new walk with the resurrected Jesus. It won't be long until we begin to hear the readings of what life was like in the days immediately after Jesus was raised from the grave. It is a time of discovery and hope.
It is also the day where we are released from the sacrifices we made during the Lenten season. The boys were all over that when they realized it. As a matter of fact, we were headed down to Mom's for Easter dinner and Carter suggested we stop in the next town in order to buy a Dr. Pepper. Obviously, we didn't, but they were able to have a pop at Grandma's.
I am not sure how I feel about my ability to return to "normal life". I understand the time of commemoration of the sacrifices Christ made for us is past for this year, but I don't know I should walk back away from it without a backward glance. There are too many instances in life where I take the easy way. For now, I will continue. I also feel it is harder since now it isn't an expectation, so this might make the sacrifice more real to me today.
It is also the day where we are released from the sacrifices we made during the Lenten season. The boys were all over that when they realized it. As a matter of fact, we were headed down to Mom's for Easter dinner and Carter suggested we stop in the next town in order to buy a Dr. Pepper. Obviously, we didn't, but they were able to have a pop at Grandma's.
I am not sure how I feel about my ability to return to "normal life". I understand the time of commemoration of the sacrifices Christ made for us is past for this year, but I don't know I should walk back away from it without a backward glance. There are too many instances in life where I take the easy way. For now, I will continue. I also feel it is harder since now it isn't an expectation, so this might make the sacrifice more real to me today.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Self Examination
Today brings Lent to a close. When it started, my intention was to examine my faith life on a daily basis and blog about what I have learned about myself and my relationship with God. The journey is continuing, but the daily posting will draw to a close tonight. Thank you for walking this journey with me.
Seder Meal
We had our first annual Seder meal this past Saturday night. Unfortunately, I didn't realize how much preparation went into the process and we had to rush just a little bit in the final stages of preparation. The meal was intended to begin at 6 and last until 7. We didn't get to the table until 6:15.
The Seder meal is very complicated and follows quite a few rituals. It opens with a ceremonial lighting of candles. It progresses through readings from the Book of Exodus. There are ritual questions and answers. Different foods are used to remind the participants of the tears shed, the bitter anguish experienced under the rules of the Egyptians. It is complicated and emotional.
Having read through the ritual in advance, I thought I was prepared for the different food needs of the evening. Once we began, I learned there are some things to be done differently next year. Ultimately, I learned a great deal from this experience, even with the areas lacking a little in the execution.
Up until this weekend, the book of Exodus was just another book of the Bible. The stories of the plagues, the escape from Egypt, they were abstract stories but I didn't really connect them with real life. Our Seder Meal experience made it very real, very present in our current lives.
The Seder meal is very complicated and follows quite a few rituals. It opens with a ceremonial lighting of candles. It progresses through readings from the Book of Exodus. There are ritual questions and answers. Different foods are used to remind the participants of the tears shed, the bitter anguish experienced under the rules of the Egyptians. It is complicated and emotional.
Having read through the ritual in advance, I thought I was prepared for the different food needs of the evening. Once we began, I learned there are some things to be done differently next year. Ultimately, I learned a great deal from this experience, even with the areas lacking a little in the execution.
Up until this weekend, the book of Exodus was just another book of the Bible. The stories of the plagues, the escape from Egypt, they were abstract stories but I didn't really connect them with real life. Our Seder Meal experience made it very real, very present in our current lives.
Friday, April 10, 2009
My Other Grandma
My mother was raised in New Ulm, MN. She received her first Holy Communion at Holy Trinity. She attended the Catholic School for 3rd and 4th grade. I have known some of this for more years than I can remember. Somehow, though, I never connected the New Ulm, MN, where she was raised with the New Ulm, MN, where our diocese is based.
As I may have mentioned earlier, we had planned to attend The Way of the Cross, as led by Bishop John LeVoir, in New Ulm today. We MapQuested the directions to the offices of the Diocese. We pulled in, about 15 minutes early, but there wasn't a person in sight. A quick call was made to a good friend of ours, who answered right about the time we turned the corner and saw the cars backed half way up the hill. Fortunately for us, we stumbled on it just in time.
The Way of the Cross was amazing. I don't have words to adequately describe what the experience was like, but I will try. Other than some technical issues with the sound equipment, the prayers went off without a hitch. 160 people were in attendance, approximately four times the number who typically attend the 3pm Way of the Cross on Good Friday. Personally, I think the Bishop held quite the power to draw people in today.
Each of the Stations is a beautiful piece of statuary, brought over from Germany more than 100 years ago. Each piece is encased behind glass in a brick shelter. At the halfway point, there is a grotto for Our Lady of Lourdes. Finally, at the end is a gorgeous chapel. It is a very holy and mystical place.
We prayed the Stations and spent some time in the Chapel. Because of the number of people in attendance, we were not able to spend a lot of time actually looking at them as we moved past each of them. On our way back down, we stopped at each of the Stations and looked at them in detail. The sculptures are so detailed, so delicate, so perfect.
We were about halfway back down when it struck me. The Way of the Cross has been there for more than 100 years. This was there when my mother was a little girl. This was there when my grandparents were young parents. My grandmother, a very devout Catholic woman, could have prayed there, as we were praying there today.
She died when I was seven. I never knew her well, or at least not well like I knew my other grandmother who lived until I was in my mid-teens, or the way Dave knew his grandparents who lived until he was in his late twenties or early thirties. Today, though, I think I might know her better. I truly felt her presence with me, and I still have a residual feeling of warmth.
I have thought more about her today than I have in a long time. I remember the sound of her rosary beads clicking in her apron pocket. I remember sitting with her in Mass when I was a very little girl. I remember listening to the words I couldn't understand at the Latin Mass they attended. I remember the feel of warm hugs and the smell of her kitchen. I remember the green pepper cookie jar in the pantry and the sugar cookies she used to keep in them. I remember the smell that was distinctive to their house. I remember feeling truly loved when I was there.
As I may have mentioned earlier, we had planned to attend The Way of the Cross, as led by Bishop John LeVoir, in New Ulm today. We MapQuested the directions to the offices of the Diocese. We pulled in, about 15 minutes early, but there wasn't a person in sight. A quick call was made to a good friend of ours, who answered right about the time we turned the corner and saw the cars backed half way up the hill. Fortunately for us, we stumbled on it just in time.
The Way of the Cross was amazing. I don't have words to adequately describe what the experience was like, but I will try. Other than some technical issues with the sound equipment, the prayers went off without a hitch. 160 people were in attendance, approximately four times the number who typically attend the 3pm Way of the Cross on Good Friday. Personally, I think the Bishop held quite the power to draw people in today.
Each of the Stations is a beautiful piece of statuary, brought over from Germany more than 100 years ago. Each piece is encased behind glass in a brick shelter. At the halfway point, there is a grotto for Our Lady of Lourdes. Finally, at the end is a gorgeous chapel. It is a very holy and mystical place.
We prayed the Stations and spent some time in the Chapel. Because of the number of people in attendance, we were not able to spend a lot of time actually looking at them as we moved past each of them. On our way back down, we stopped at each of the Stations and looked at them in detail. The sculptures are so detailed, so delicate, so perfect.
We were about halfway back down when it struck me. The Way of the Cross has been there for more than 100 years. This was there when my mother was a little girl. This was there when my grandparents were young parents. My grandmother, a very devout Catholic woman, could have prayed there, as we were praying there today.
She died when I was seven. I never knew her well, or at least not well like I knew my other grandmother who lived until I was in my mid-teens, or the way Dave knew his grandparents who lived until he was in his late twenties or early thirties. Today, though, I think I might know her better. I truly felt her presence with me, and I still have a residual feeling of warmth.
I have thought more about her today than I have in a long time. I remember the sound of her rosary beads clicking in her apron pocket. I remember sitting with her in Mass when I was a very little girl. I remember listening to the words I couldn't understand at the Latin Mass they attended. I remember the feel of warm hugs and the smell of her kitchen. I remember the green pepper cookie jar in the pantry and the sugar cookies she used to keep in them. I remember the smell that was distinctive to their house. I remember feeling truly loved when I was there.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Shadow Stations of the Cross, Take Two
Tonight was the night. The confirmation class from Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church put on Stations of the Cross, in shadow. There is something so indescribably moving hearing the story of Jesus' journey to the grave while seeing the story in relief. Other than the voice of the narrator, the room was silent. The Church is a smaller Church, located in a smaller town. There were probably 50 people in attendance.
It was completely narrative. Each Station had one pose, except forThe lights came up again the Station where Jesus was nailed to the Cross. It was back lit when the explanation of the Station was done. The light went down and the prayer for the Station was said while the students re-positioned themselves for the next Station.
The Station when Jesus is nailed to the Cross was the only exception. For this one, the students were back lit showing Jesus with one arm on the Cross. The lights dropped and a hammer sounded three times. The lights came back up showing Jesus other arm now on the Cross. The lights dropped again and the hammer sounded three more times. For the third time, the lights came up. This time, the person with the hammer was kneeling at Jesus' feet. The lights dropped for the third time and the hammer sounded three more times. When the lights came up for the final time, Jesus was completely nailed to the Cross.
The hammer echoed in that Church basement. I could feel it in my chest with each strike of the hammer. Tears were in my eyes when Carter reached over and squeezed my hand.
If you ever had the opportunity to experience the Stations of the Cross in shadow, don't pass it up.
It was completely narrative. Each Station had one pose, except forThe lights came up again the Station where Jesus was nailed to the Cross. It was back lit when the explanation of the Station was done. The light went down and the prayer for the Station was said while the students re-positioned themselves for the next Station.
The Station when Jesus is nailed to the Cross was the only exception. For this one, the students were back lit showing Jesus with one arm on the Cross. The lights dropped and a hammer sounded three times. The lights came back up showing Jesus other arm now on the Cross. The lights dropped again and the hammer sounded three more times. For the third time, the lights came up. This time, the person with the hammer was kneeling at Jesus' feet. The lights dropped for the third time and the hammer sounded three more times. When the lights came up for the final time, Jesus was completely nailed to the Cross.
The hammer echoed in that Church basement. I could feel it in my chest with each strike of the hammer. Tears were in my eyes when Carter reached over and squeezed my hand.
If you ever had the opportunity to experience the Stations of the Cross in shadow, don't pass it up.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Patron Saint
This morning, Greg and Jennifer Willets (The Catholics Next Door) were discussing their current internet issues. They spoke of praying to Saint Isadore, the patron saint of the internet, to help them by keeping the internet operational during their show today.
There are a plethora of saints who are the patrons of almost any subject imaginable. Saint Anthony is the patron saint of lost objects. Saint Jude is the patron saint of lost causes. Dave gives me a hard time about the special relationship I have developed with Saint Anthony. It seems I am praying to him on a regular basis, usually related to my car keys. Just the simple act of praying has a calming influence on me. Once I am calmed and centered, it is so much easier to locate an object than when I am uptight and scatter brained because I am under the pressure of walking out the door "right now" without my keys.
Saint Anthony, though, is the only saint, other than the Virgin Mother, who I communicate with on a regular basis. Considering what I learned about Saint Isadore today, it might be time to learn about a few more. Which saints do you reach out to in your times of need?
There are a plethora of saints who are the patrons of almost any subject imaginable. Saint Anthony is the patron saint of lost objects. Saint Jude is the patron saint of lost causes. Dave gives me a hard time about the special relationship I have developed with Saint Anthony. It seems I am praying to him on a regular basis, usually related to my car keys. Just the simple act of praying has a calming influence on me. Once I am calmed and centered, it is so much easier to locate an object than when I am uptight and scatter brained because I am under the pressure of walking out the door "right now" without my keys.
Saint Anthony, though, is the only saint, other than the Virgin Mother, who I communicate with on a regular basis. Considering what I learned about Saint Isadore today, it might be time to learn about a few more. Which saints do you reach out to in your times of need?
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Bible Reading
Why is Bible reading more difficult than "regular" reading? I can read a book in an evening. It took me five hours to plow through the last Harry Potter book. My daily Bible reading today should have been 15 pages. It should have taken me 15-20 minutes, tops. With a little time for reflection, it should have been a half an hour or so of prayer time.
I can't wrap my mind around why this should be more difficult. I take a few minutes at a time, but I have difficulty focusing long enough to get through a chapter. It is possible the material is just so much more challenging than light reading. It is possible it is daunting because it is "The Bible." Or it is possible I just have a hang up.
I can't wrap my mind around why this should be more difficult. I take a few minutes at a time, but I have difficulty focusing long enough to get through a chapter. It is possible the material is just so much more challenging than light reading. It is possible it is daunting because it is "The Bible." Or it is possible I just have a hang up.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Shadow Stations of the Cross
For the summer, we attend Mass at a small Church a few miles away from our seasonal campsite. This weekend, we had a Boy Scout camping trip near there. We attended Palm Sunday Mass there yesterday. While we were there, they made an announcement about the Masses for Holy Week. So, this Thursday, we will be attending a shadow Stations of the Cross and Mass in Currie instead of here at home.
Shadow Stations of the Cross is how I fell in love with the devotional. Christian was in second grade and we had just returned to the Church. We took every spiritual opportunity that came along. We soaked up the experiences. Very early on, one Wednesday evening the high school students put on a Stations of the Cross devotional. A large white sheet was on the altar. The lights went down in the Church and the white screen was illuminated from the rear. It was magical as the fourteen stations were acted out behind the screen. Since then, I have wanted to experience the Stations of the Cross the same way, but I haven't had the opportunity.
We had originally planned to do a Seder Meal Thursday, but we won't be able to work that in with the trip to Currie. We will save that for another day. I have found a menu plan and prayer service for that, but I will save that post, too.
Shadow Stations of the Cross is how I fell in love with the devotional. Christian was in second grade and we had just returned to the Church. We took every spiritual opportunity that came along. We soaked up the experiences. Very early on, one Wednesday evening the high school students put on a Stations of the Cross devotional. A large white sheet was on the altar. The lights went down in the Church and the white screen was illuminated from the rear. It was magical as the fourteen stations were acted out behind the screen. Since then, I have wanted to experience the Stations of the Cross the same way, but I haven't had the opportunity.
We had originally planned to do a Seder Meal Thursday, but we won't be able to work that in with the trip to Currie. We will save that for another day. I have found a menu plan and prayer service for that, but I will save that post, too.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Fear
It is normal and natural to experience fear. It is okay to hope for a different outcome than what is expected. It is fine to pray for alternative answers. The key is understanding we must follow God's will. His answer to prayers may be "No!"
Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane for the upcoming events to be taken from Him. He wanted God to say, "That's okay. You came close enough. You will not have to suffer the crucifixion." He was prepared for the answer to be "No", but he still asked. By the end of the third hour of prayer, he had resolved to accept his Father's answer as the one He would need to abide.
How often do I argue with the path I know I am to follow? How hard do I bargain, hoping for a different answer? Why is it so hard to accept God's will must be done?
Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane for the upcoming events to be taken from Him. He wanted God to say, "That's okay. You came close enough. You will not have to suffer the crucifixion." He was prepared for the answer to be "No", but he still asked. By the end of the third hour of prayer, he had resolved to accept his Father's answer as the one He would need to abide.
How often do I argue with the path I know I am to follow? How hard do I bargain, hoping for a different answer? Why is it so hard to accept God's will must be done?
Saying Yes
How often are we truly called to service? How do we know? Do we say "Yes" when called?
Today, we attended the Farewell to Arms program at Southwest Minnesota State University. 400 National Guard members from our area are being called to Active Duty status effective 4/15/09. Some of them were recognized in our community at this event. Today was the ceremony to make that call official.
It was an awe inspiring sign as those men (and one woman) all said "Yes!" to their call to serve our country as well as the State of Minnesota. There had to be fear and sadness among them, but as each unit member's last name was called, he or she replied with their first name, middle initial and First Sergeant! as they ran to take their position in the ranks.
They said Yes!
Today, we attended the Farewell to Arms program at Southwest Minnesota State University. 400 National Guard members from our area are being called to Active Duty status effective 4/15/09. Some of them were recognized in our community at this event. Today was the ceremony to make that call official.
It was an awe inspiring sign as those men (and one woman) all said "Yes!" to their call to serve our country as well as the State of Minnesota. There had to be fear and sadness among them, but as each unit member's last name was called, he or she replied with their first name, middle initial and First Sergeant! as they ran to take their position in the ranks.
They said Yes!
Friday, April 3, 2009
Drawing To A Close
Lent is winding down already. This weekend is Palm Sunday. Next week is Holy Thursday, Good Friday and then the Easter Vigil. I can't remember a time when Lent has flown by quite so quickly. This week, I gave the final reminder to our class about Stations of the Cross. It seems like just yesterday was the first reminder.
For me, Lent has been a voyage of challenges in my journey to Christ. I finally feel a semblance of peace as we are entering the home stretch, though. I don't know that I understand it any better or have learned all that much, but I feel as though the struggles I am facing are a small reminder of the struggles Jesus had on His journey. My cross to bear is nothing in comparison with His.
For me, Lent has been a voyage of challenges in my journey to Christ. I finally feel a semblance of peace as we are entering the home stretch, though. I don't know that I understand it any better or have learned all that much, but I feel as though the struggles I am facing are a small reminder of the struggles Jesus had on His journey. My cross to bear is nothing in comparison with His.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Smell Your Hand!
My very excited 11 year old came up with that line in the car on the way home from the Chrism Mass in Spicer tonight. I could hardly believe the ball of energy chattering in the back seat was the same child who told me I would have to help him stay awake during the extra long Mass just two hours earlier. Shaking hands with the Bishop must have had quite the effect on him.
Tonight was the Mass where all of the holy oils to be used in the diocese for the upcoming year were blessed. We caravaned the hour and a half drive with some other members of our parish. The boys were barely sitting down when Father Jerry, our longtime pastor and the man who oversaw our return to the Church, came and sat with them for a couple of minutes. He ruffled hair and asked about school. He even made a suggestion about a future award they should work toward in Boy Scouts before he went back to put on his vestments.
All of the priests the boys knew from our diocese were there. Christian pointed out Father Brian, who had married Dave and me. Carter saw Father Jeremy, who was here when he received his First Communion. Christian had a chance to speak with Father Sam, of the daily Hail Mary fame. He was also able to speak to our own Father Paul and his assistant faith formation teacher from last year, who is now a seminary student.
The capper of the evening, however, was the Bishop. He is new to our diocese and this was his first Chrism Mass with us. Bishop LeVoir has a different approach than Archbishop Nienstedt, but it was still a beautiful and faith-filled event.
After the Mass was over, Carter went to the gathering area, firmly intent on finding Father Jeremy. Once he had a chance to say hello to him, the boy was on a mission. He was going to shake the Bishop's hand. He is small for his age and easily disappeated into the throng of people gathered around enjoying juice and cookies. It took just a moment before he was back for his brother. He had found the bishop by the doors and had been able to shake his hand. Now, he wanted the rest of us to have the opportunity.
We greeted Bishop LeVoir and said our good byes to the people we only see at the Chrism Mass each year. Of course, the biggest topic of conversation in the first few minutes was the chance to shake Bishop LeVoir's hand. Dave mentioned how he could smell the Chrism Oil and it must have rubbed off when he shook hands. Christian seemed a little confused, but Carter knew exactly what Dave meant. He closed his eyes as he held his right hand up near his nose. He took a deep breath and said "MMMMMMMMMMM". Christian was still a little confused and Carter said "Smell your hand, the one you used to shake hands with the Bishop!"
That was all it took. Christian figured it out. I have to say, the smell of Chrism is one of my favorite smells of all time. I am not sure how many times I have smelled my hand, the one I used to shake hands with the Bishop since we left Spicer, but it has brought a smile to my face each and every time.
Tonight was the Mass where all of the holy oils to be used in the diocese for the upcoming year were blessed. We caravaned the hour and a half drive with some other members of our parish. The boys were barely sitting down when Father Jerry, our longtime pastor and the man who oversaw our return to the Church, came and sat with them for a couple of minutes. He ruffled hair and asked about school. He even made a suggestion about a future award they should work toward in Boy Scouts before he went back to put on his vestments.
All of the priests the boys knew from our diocese were there. Christian pointed out Father Brian, who had married Dave and me. Carter saw Father Jeremy, who was here when he received his First Communion. Christian had a chance to speak with Father Sam, of the daily Hail Mary fame. He was also able to speak to our own Father Paul and his assistant faith formation teacher from last year, who is now a seminary student.
The capper of the evening, however, was the Bishop. He is new to our diocese and this was his first Chrism Mass with us. Bishop LeVoir has a different approach than Archbishop Nienstedt, but it was still a beautiful and faith-filled event.
After the Mass was over, Carter went to the gathering area, firmly intent on finding Father Jeremy. Once he had a chance to say hello to him, the boy was on a mission. He was going to shake the Bishop's hand. He is small for his age and easily disappeated into the throng of people gathered around enjoying juice and cookies. It took just a moment before he was back for his brother. He had found the bishop by the doors and had been able to shake his hand. Now, he wanted the rest of us to have the opportunity.
We greeted Bishop LeVoir and said our good byes to the people we only see at the Chrism Mass each year. Of course, the biggest topic of conversation in the first few minutes was the chance to shake Bishop LeVoir's hand. Dave mentioned how he could smell the Chrism Oil and it must have rubbed off when he shook hands. Christian seemed a little confused, but Carter knew exactly what Dave meant. He closed his eyes as he held his right hand up near his nose. He took a deep breath and said "MMMMMMMMMMM". Christian was still a little confused and Carter said "Smell your hand, the one you used to shake hands with the Bishop!"
That was all it took. Christian figured it out. I have to say, the smell of Chrism is one of my favorite smells of all time. I am not sure how many times I have smelled my hand, the one I used to shake hands with the Bishop since we left Spicer, but it has brought a smile to my face each and every time.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Daily Introspection
I started Lent with the intention of daily reflection on my spiritual life and relationship with God. At the beginning, I thought it would be easy. There were a lot of topics rattling around in my brain, things I wanted to explore, areas of my life I wanted to dissect.
As we are nearing the end, I am finding it to be a daily challenge. Just because there was an idea rattling around doesn't mean it is easy to examine and certainly doesn't make it easy to translate into writing. Some topics wind up being way too intense while others seem very superficial. I don't know if this is accomplishing what I had hoped when this started.
As we are nearing the end, I am finding it to be a daily challenge. Just because there was an idea rattling around doesn't mean it is easy to examine and certainly doesn't make it easy to translate into writing. Some topics wind up being way too intense while others seem very superficial. I don't know if this is accomplishing what I had hoped when this started.
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