Sorry, try as I might, I could not find a decent choral performance of this hymn, so this little gem from EWTN will have to do. Hopefully, will have some pics to post tonight of our TLM for All Saints.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
TLM for Feast of Christ the King at St. Paul's Philadelphia
The Little Miss was given permission to start taking photographs at our Sunday TLM. I was so concerned that she would create a disruption that I didn't even know where she was until Holy Communion, when I realized she'd been sitting in the front row, as she had been directed to do, all along. And she wasn't a disruption at all. The shutter on the camera she used, borrowed from her older sister, is silent, so unless you were sitting directly behind her you'd never know she was taking photos. She did not take photographs during the consecration because she didn't feel it would be proper, but she was assured that Father would not object to photos of the elevation of the Host, so perhaps next time. With practice she will get better and eventually, we hope to create a website dedicated to St. Paul's and the Traditional Latin Mass. Many thanks to Mr. Tom Rudolph for his help and patience.
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| The altar before Mass |
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| After the Asperges Me |
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| Father vesting at the sedilla |
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| The chanting of the Epistle |
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| The sermon |
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| The offertory |
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| The Dismissal |
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| Recessional after the Last Gospel |
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Eager Anticipation
I so look forward to the inception of the New Missal Translation that I've decided to celebrate a little early. I've already started making my responses according to the new translation. Don't get all bent out of shape. I'm doing it very discreetly. Not like the women who can't bring themselves to refer to God as Him and try to drown out everyone around them at Mass during the offertory. I make my responses just loudly enough. And in a few short weeks, I will be able to make my responses audibly and won't be considered a disruption or attention-seeker.
Depending on where I go to Mass, I'm not always alone in making my responses that way. I've heard a smattering of "and with your spirit" at my own parish. I love it.
At the Saturday Vigil Mass, we've been reviewing one particular part of the new translation each week. Our priest had us start with the easier prayers, like the Sanctus, and we are currently working our way toward the Confiteor and the Creed. By the time the first Sunday in Advent rolls around, we'll be well on our way.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Hosts!
Our liberation is at hand.
Depending on where I go to Mass, I'm not always alone in making my responses that way. I've heard a smattering of "and with your spirit" at my own parish. I love it.
At the Saturday Vigil Mass, we've been reviewing one particular part of the new translation each week. Our priest had us start with the easier prayers, like the Sanctus, and we are currently working our way toward the Confiteor and the Creed. By the time the first Sunday in Advent rolls around, we'll be well on our way.
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Hosts!
Our liberation is at hand.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Come To Me
It is nearly impossible for me to leave work at the end of the day without first making a visit to the chapel. This is what I imagine the Lord might be saying to me, if only I could hear Him.
You are not here simply because you want to be. You are here because you heard Me calling to you, and you indulged Me. I have not called out to you alone, but as this moment, before this tabernacle, you are the only one to have heeded My call. When I look at you, know that I am not seeing you as you might think. When you sit before Me, I don't see the shortcomings that sometimes make you think twice about visiting Me. All I see is a soul I love so much that for it, I gave My very life. What you must accept is that what I did for you, you could never do for Me, because I neither demand it or expect it.
I hear you calling to Me throughout the day as you face problem after problem. I desire that you should call upon Me as a source of strength. Know, daughter, that I never tire of hearing your voice. Still, you have only to ask me once to take your problems into My Hands and I will come to your aid. I know what you need before you do, but the confidence that you place in Me is a source of delight. It pleases Me to hear you give thanks to Me for the mercies I shower upon you so that others may come to know Me as you do.
It is the end of the day, and your family will be looking for you. I know the duties of the household need your attention. Go, and bring the peace that only I can give with you. Remember me, as you always do, when you sit down to the evening meal. Tomorrow is another day, and I will be right here, where I always am, waiting for you.
You are not here simply because you want to be. You are here because you heard Me calling to you, and you indulged Me. I have not called out to you alone, but as this moment, before this tabernacle, you are the only one to have heeded My call. When I look at you, know that I am not seeing you as you might think. When you sit before Me, I don't see the shortcomings that sometimes make you think twice about visiting Me. All I see is a soul I love so much that for it, I gave My very life. What you must accept is that what I did for you, you could never do for Me, because I neither demand it or expect it.
I hear you calling to Me throughout the day as you face problem after problem. I desire that you should call upon Me as a source of strength. Know, daughter, that I never tire of hearing your voice. Still, you have only to ask me once to take your problems into My Hands and I will come to your aid. I know what you need before you do, but the confidence that you place in Me is a source of delight. It pleases Me to hear you give thanks to Me for the mercies I shower upon you so that others may come to know Me as you do.
It is the end of the day, and your family will be looking for you. I know the duties of the household need your attention. Go, and bring the peace that only I can give with you. Remember me, as you always do, when you sit down to the evening meal. Tomorrow is another day, and I will be right here, where I always am, waiting for you.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The Mocking Voices of Doubt and Despair
When I hear the word evil, an image immediately comes to mind of a dark, formless hulking figure intent on destruction. Sometimes, though, evil doesn't manifest itself that way. Sometimes, evil comes at you from places where you least expect it and because of this, you could be fooled into thinking that it is you who are evil.
Evil is not always a boogie-man waiting to leap at us from a dark corner. Sometimes, evil arrives with a smile on its face and a kind word meant to distract while the knife is plunged between your shoulder blades. The bigger the smile, the harder the force with which the knife is aimed. Sometimes, that evil even has the nerve to call itself a Catholic, and in the name of defending the "values" of the faith, it will come at you with such force you are left breathless.
At some point in my life, I hope that I learn not to retreat in the face of such attacks. I'm not there yet. My first reaction is to recoil and go running in shame, wondering how I can have the nerve to think I'm a good person with honest motives rooted in the love of Christ. Maybe it's part of my over scrupulosity. I don't know. But I really need to overcome this because that old demon, despair, is looking to get back in to the clean-swept house, and he'll do anything to gain entry. Hard to believe that it would be another so-called Catholic who would attempt to afford him entry, but there it is, in so many ways.
Today, it came in the form of a co-worker who is, behind my back, "counseling" one of my problem employees. He attempted to characterize my struggle to hold this person accountable (lest she find herself unemployed) as decidedly unCatholic. I asked this person to consider my premise that while we can turn the other cheek, we also have a responsibility not to aid and abet those intent to keep on the wrong path. It's not fair to the co-workers who have to pick up the slack for this person, who has no desire to change, and we're certainly not demonstrating true Catholic charity by offering the necessary correction.
That demon comes in other forms, too.
1. The priest who tells me to mind my business when I ask him to speak to a brand-new priest who is not purifying the chalice after Holy Communion.
2. The staff member who questions my Christianity because I insist that she carry her fair share of the workload. Her beleaguered co-workers would beg to differ with her and they expect me, as their superior, to hold her accountable.
3. The unbeliever who twists your words and tries to make you question your worth as a Catholic
4. The priest who questions my Christianity when I voice concern about giving a Catholic award to a person blatantly living in contempt of the church's moral teachings.
I should have seen this coming. It always happens after a time of intense union with Christ and the inner joy that comes with frequent reception of the sacraments and commitment to prayer.
One of these days, I'll learn.
Evil is not always a boogie-man waiting to leap at us from a dark corner. Sometimes, evil arrives with a smile on its face and a kind word meant to distract while the knife is plunged between your shoulder blades. The bigger the smile, the harder the force with which the knife is aimed. Sometimes, that evil even has the nerve to call itself a Catholic, and in the name of defending the "values" of the faith, it will come at you with such force you are left breathless.
At some point in my life, I hope that I learn not to retreat in the face of such attacks. I'm not there yet. My first reaction is to recoil and go running in shame, wondering how I can have the nerve to think I'm a good person with honest motives rooted in the love of Christ. Maybe it's part of my over scrupulosity. I don't know. But I really need to overcome this because that old demon, despair, is looking to get back in to the clean-swept house, and he'll do anything to gain entry. Hard to believe that it would be another so-called Catholic who would attempt to afford him entry, but there it is, in so many ways.
Today, it came in the form of a co-worker who is, behind my back, "counseling" one of my problem employees. He attempted to characterize my struggle to hold this person accountable (lest she find herself unemployed) as decidedly unCatholic. I asked this person to consider my premise that while we can turn the other cheek, we also have a responsibility not to aid and abet those intent to keep on the wrong path. It's not fair to the co-workers who have to pick up the slack for this person, who has no desire to change, and we're certainly not demonstrating true Catholic charity by offering the necessary correction.
That demon comes in other forms, too.
1. The priest who tells me to mind my business when I ask him to speak to a brand-new priest who is not purifying the chalice after Holy Communion.
2. The staff member who questions my Christianity because I insist that she carry her fair share of the workload. Her beleaguered co-workers would beg to differ with her and they expect me, as their superior, to hold her accountable.
3. The unbeliever who twists your words and tries to make you question your worth as a Catholic
4. The priest who questions my Christianity when I voice concern about giving a Catholic award to a person blatantly living in contempt of the church's moral teachings.
I should have seen this coming. It always happens after a time of intense union with Christ and the inner joy that comes with frequent reception of the sacraments and commitment to prayer.
One of these days, I'll learn.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
The Label Says It All
Almost forgot - when I got home from the asylum, er uh, work, I found this bottle on the counter top. I don't usually drink, but I thought I should give this a try when I saw the label. Where do they come up with these names? Maybe the vineyard owner used to work in healthcare.
When Scripture Speaks to You
Brothers and sisters:
The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness;
for we do not know how to pray as we ought,
but the Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings.
And the one who searches hearts
knows what is the intention of the Spirit,
because he intercedes for the holy ones
according to God's will - St. Paul's letter to the Roman Chapter 8
I was so moved by this reading this morning because I'm still struggling with my frequent failure to turn to prayer when I'm tested. This week, I have really been tested, mostly because of difficult employees, and I can't say that my private reaction to their behaviors is what it should it have been.
Today, I had to confront someone about her disruptive behavior and as this was not the first time we were having this discussion, I had to initiate the disciplinary process, which is never an easy thing to do but which is necessary for the welfare of the employee as well as the co-workers who have to suffer through the bad behavior. A few minutes into the conversation and I could clearly see that I had unleashed something I wasn't going to be able to get back into the bottle. And then doubt began to cross my mind. Had I been cruel to this person? Had I taken everything into consideration? But the longer our encounter continued, the more convinced I became that I was correct to address her and that it wasn't going to be easy. I began to see first-hand someone who may not be mentally stable and I had a fear that after our talk she might try to harm herself in some way. So I decided to give her another chance before I implement the action against her.
I felt a lot of anger toward the person I had replaced in my position because she had swept so many issues under the rug. But did I once turn to the Lord and ask for His help in handling a situation I knew wasn't going to be easy? In fact, I had no idea how difficult it would be.
I stole away from the insanity of one of the departments for which I'm responsible to visit the Lord in the chapel for a few brief moments. When I entered, I saw two men, dressed all in white, kneeling at the altar. In fact, one wasn't kneeling, he was prostrate on the floor and for a moment, I was concerned that he had collapsed and needed help. I caught the attention of the other man and asked if they were ok, and he nodded in a reassuring way that told me he appreciated my concern but that I needn't worry.
The man who was prostrate was crying, and for a moment it occurred to me that maybe a family member had just passed away. Then he began praying out loud, something that I would ordinarily find disturbing. And as he prayed, I almost felt like he was praying the prayer that I should have been praying. He poured out thanks and praise to Jesus for His mercy and kindness to all, and he cried because so few know Him and love Him. I have no idea what event precipitated this but I was glad to be there. Before I knew it, I started to cry, too. What a mess I am.
The other night I came home with a pounding headache. Matthew and I both have a sinus infection, and while we're feeling better, we had a rough couple of days with the kind of pain that is overbearing and unrelenting. And once again, I failed to do what I should have done and fell into sin and then spent hours ruminating over how I'd tripped out and stumbled yet again. When will I ever learn that the Lord will not give up on me, even when I give up on myself?
I was getting dinner on the table tonight when a thought suddenly occurred to me. There is a weekly Wednesday evening Mass down the street from me which is preceded by confessions.
"I'll be right back" I said and dashed out the door as the incredulous family was left to ask: Where the heck is she going?
Sure enough, a priest was hearing confessions, there was no one else in line, and through the Alter Christus I was relieved of the burden I was carrying. The priest is newly ordained and when we finished, I asked him to never forget the power he holds in his hands.
"Never forget Father, that at your words, the Lord sees fit to come down and be received in your hands and at your word, He sees fit to dispense absolution on a wretch like me."
"Please don't forget to pray for me."
If I do, the Lord will find a way to remind me.
The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness;
for we do not know how to pray as we ought,
but the Spirit himself intercedes with inexpressible groanings.
And the one who searches hearts
knows what is the intention of the Spirit,
because he intercedes for the holy ones
according to God's will - St. Paul's letter to the Roman Chapter 8
I was so moved by this reading this morning because I'm still struggling with my frequent failure to turn to prayer when I'm tested. This week, I have really been tested, mostly because of difficult employees, and I can't say that my private reaction to their behaviors is what it should it have been.
Today, I had to confront someone about her disruptive behavior and as this was not the first time we were having this discussion, I had to initiate the disciplinary process, which is never an easy thing to do but which is necessary for the welfare of the employee as well as the co-workers who have to suffer through the bad behavior. A few minutes into the conversation and I could clearly see that I had unleashed something I wasn't going to be able to get back into the bottle. And then doubt began to cross my mind. Had I been cruel to this person? Had I taken everything into consideration? But the longer our encounter continued, the more convinced I became that I was correct to address her and that it wasn't going to be easy. I began to see first-hand someone who may not be mentally stable and I had a fear that after our talk she might try to harm herself in some way. So I decided to give her another chance before I implement the action against her.
I felt a lot of anger toward the person I had replaced in my position because she had swept so many issues under the rug. But did I once turn to the Lord and ask for His help in handling a situation I knew wasn't going to be easy? In fact, I had no idea how difficult it would be.
I stole away from the insanity of one of the departments for which I'm responsible to visit the Lord in the chapel for a few brief moments. When I entered, I saw two men, dressed all in white, kneeling at the altar. In fact, one wasn't kneeling, he was prostrate on the floor and for a moment, I was concerned that he had collapsed and needed help. I caught the attention of the other man and asked if they were ok, and he nodded in a reassuring way that told me he appreciated my concern but that I needn't worry.
The man who was prostrate was crying, and for a moment it occurred to me that maybe a family member had just passed away. Then he began praying out loud, something that I would ordinarily find disturbing. And as he prayed, I almost felt like he was praying the prayer that I should have been praying. He poured out thanks and praise to Jesus for His mercy and kindness to all, and he cried because so few know Him and love Him. I have no idea what event precipitated this but I was glad to be there. Before I knew it, I started to cry, too. What a mess I am.
The other night I came home with a pounding headache. Matthew and I both have a sinus infection, and while we're feeling better, we had a rough couple of days with the kind of pain that is overbearing and unrelenting. And once again, I failed to do what I should have done and fell into sin and then spent hours ruminating over how I'd tripped out and stumbled yet again. When will I ever learn that the Lord will not give up on me, even when I give up on myself?
I was getting dinner on the table tonight when a thought suddenly occurred to me. There is a weekly Wednesday evening Mass down the street from me which is preceded by confessions.
"I'll be right back" I said and dashed out the door as the incredulous family was left to ask: Where the heck is she going?
Sure enough, a priest was hearing confessions, there was no one else in line, and through the Alter Christus I was relieved of the burden I was carrying. The priest is newly ordained and when we finished, I asked him to never forget the power he holds in his hands.
"Never forget Father, that at your words, the Lord sees fit to come down and be received in your hands and at your word, He sees fit to dispense absolution on a wretch like me."
"Please don't forget to pray for me."
If I do, the Lord will find a way to remind me.
Prayer of a Priest
Please go to Richard's blog and read this beautiful prayer, Prayer of a Priest on a Sunday Night, which was written by a priest.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Vangelis - Jerusalem (Chariots of Fire)
I had a rough day and felt like I need some inspirational music to help lift my spirits. It started with an employee from my previous job having the audacity to call me at my present job and tell me how I ruined her life. I called someone this evening to see if perhaps she'd gotten fired or something, but she didn't. Who knows what brought this outburst on. I really wish St. Therese would manage her namesakes a little better than this ( just kidding Saint Therese!)
My favorite version of this Blake poem set to music by Parry. Not sure how my Catholic Brit friends feel about this "hymn" but I can't but love it. This is the most rousing version with which I'm familiar and thus my favorite. One time, our former organist at the TLM had the schola sing "O Salutaris" to this melody. I thought I'd died and gone to Heaven.
My favorite version of this Blake poem set to music by Parry. Not sure how my Catholic Brit friends feel about this "hymn" but I can't but love it. This is the most rousing version with which I'm familiar and thus my favorite. One time, our former organist at the TLM had the schola sing "O Salutaris" to this melody. I thought I'd died and gone to Heaven.
Tuesday Hit and Hurry
The Boy is doing very well at his new job at the bakery. He has to be at work by 7am on Saturday mornings, no easy feat for a kid who loves to sleep, but he gets himself up and off without any prompting from us. Now if he would only do the same on Sunday mornings when it's time for Mass. It's been such a gift for him to have this little job, to feel he's productive and to have a little money of his own. Matt keeps asking me how he's going to be able to manage money when I'm gone and I keep assuring him that his sisters will be here to help him when I no longer am.
We bought the house we're living in from Jewish friends of ours who rented it out for years to a couple with 11 kids. The oldest son had a brain injury that required constant supervision and they once confided that the reason they wanted to keep having children for as long as they were able was so they could ensure that there would always be a sibling to look after him. I try to keep that family in my prayers but I confess I don't always remember to do so.
The rodents are alive and well. Apparently, as Julie pointed out to me some time ago, rats need to be bathed, so last night was the first time Rebecca attempted this feat. I was horrified to see the spotted one LEAP out of the tub several times and right onto her arm. I didn't know rodents could fly! Thankfully, I was not landed upon by either of them because I surely would have died.
I know a lot of bloggers have been feeling lately as though they are reaching for things to write about. I have that feeling myself. I've noticed I've lost a few followers. Not sure why, but I think its' good for me. I can't say it enough times that it's too easy to get caught up in stats and when that happens, I know that I have no longer made Jesus the focus of this enterprise, small as it is. So in a special way, thanks to those who have dropped from my roll. A little humility is a good thing.
Rebecca was given permission to begin taking photographs at the TLM at our church. I look forward to sharing her work with you, with my pastor's permission of course. I'm so grateful that we have this beautiful Mass to look forward to each week and I just wish more people would take advantage of the opportunity to avail themselves of it.
I have to say that for all the jokes I make about my husband, things seemed to have improved vastly between us since I returned from Italy. We are closer and I'm not as apt to let the little things he does drive me crazy. In fact, we have had a few near-disasters in the past month, including a foreclosure notice on the house, this as a result of my check being stolen from the collection plate and the fact that I forgot to let the mortgage company in on the fact that I have a new bank account. Oh, and I forgot to mention that my former employer is suing me for the price of tuition, when in fact I was required to take the courses that I did and never took a dime of tuition money in the previous 12 years that I worked there. If the Lord sees fit, He will deliver me from this trial and if it's my responsibility to pay this back, He will make that apparent too. I believe this unity and new-found sense of calm is one of the graces received through my prayers during the pilgrimage.
Things are far from perfect and they always will be and that's OK. The only perfection will be found in Heaven, God-willing.
We bought the house we're living in from Jewish friends of ours who rented it out for years to a couple with 11 kids. The oldest son had a brain injury that required constant supervision and they once confided that the reason they wanted to keep having children for as long as they were able was so they could ensure that there would always be a sibling to look after him. I try to keep that family in my prayers but I confess I don't always remember to do so.
The rodents are alive and well. Apparently, as Julie pointed out to me some time ago, rats need to be bathed, so last night was the first time Rebecca attempted this feat. I was horrified to see the spotted one LEAP out of the tub several times and right onto her arm. I didn't know rodents could fly! Thankfully, I was not landed upon by either of them because I surely would have died.
I know a lot of bloggers have been feeling lately as though they are reaching for things to write about. I have that feeling myself. I've noticed I've lost a few followers. Not sure why, but I think its' good for me. I can't say it enough times that it's too easy to get caught up in stats and when that happens, I know that I have no longer made Jesus the focus of this enterprise, small as it is. So in a special way, thanks to those who have dropped from my roll. A little humility is a good thing.
Rebecca was given permission to begin taking photographs at the TLM at our church. I look forward to sharing her work with you, with my pastor's permission of course. I'm so grateful that we have this beautiful Mass to look forward to each week and I just wish more people would take advantage of the opportunity to avail themselves of it.
I have to say that for all the jokes I make about my husband, things seemed to have improved vastly between us since I returned from Italy. We are closer and I'm not as apt to let the little things he does drive me crazy. In fact, we have had a few near-disasters in the past month, including a foreclosure notice on the house, this as a result of my check being stolen from the collection plate and the fact that I forgot to let the mortgage company in on the fact that I have a new bank account. Oh, and I forgot to mention that my former employer is suing me for the price of tuition, when in fact I was required to take the courses that I did and never took a dime of tuition money in the previous 12 years that I worked there. If the Lord sees fit, He will deliver me from this trial and if it's my responsibility to pay this back, He will make that apparent too. I believe this unity and new-found sense of calm is one of the graces received through my prayers during the pilgrimage.
Things are far from perfect and they always will be and that's OK. The only perfection will be found in Heaven, God-willing.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Looking Ahead
The annual Advent Silent Retreat at the Philadelphia Carmelite Monastery will take place on Saturday, December 3rd. I haven't received the application yet but it should be forthcoming. Let me know if you're interested so I can forward one to you. I don't know who the retreat master is but should also have that information shortly. Regardless of who the priest is, the fact remains that you get to give the entire day to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in the beautiful Holy Spirit chapel. The day begins with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at 8AM and includes two convocations, breakfast and lunch, Adoration, Rosary, and Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament. There is also ample opportunity to support the sisters by making a purchase in the Avila Bookstore and maybe even do some Christmas shopping for a fellow Catholic who would treasure a book or sacramental from the Carmel gift shop.
The utmost silence will be observed so that we can hear what Jesus wants to say to us as well as tell Him what is in our hearts.
The utmost silence will be observed so that we can hear what Jesus wants to say to us as well as tell Him what is in our hearts.
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| The altar of the Holy Spirit Chapel at the Philadelphia Carmel. The mosaic is of St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of Avila, with the prophet Elijah in the burning chariot above them. |
Only Children and Those Like Them
On the ride home from my parents' house last night, I passed a house that was all lit up for Halloween, and as I looked at the enchanting scene of pumpkins and lights, I felt the pang of longing I do when I recall the innocence and happiness of my childhood.
It occurred to me that this might be what Heaven will be like. Heaven will be the Christmas where the lights never have to come down, the summer vacation in the woods that never ends, the Monday off from work. This made me realize why it is that summer vacations are always so short and why Monday always seems to come around sooner than Friday is. I thought that I understood why we spend more time working than playing. Without the hard times, we might have little or no appreciation for leisure. The way that we lighten our load is to do all things in His Name.
There is something else I have been wondering about lately, and that is the sadness the the Lord must feel at the loss of so many souls. I remember reading once that God never rejects His creatures. What then does He feel when He cannot bring a soul to Himself because that soul spurned Him? Does He continue to hear the cries of those who are sent to the Netherworld as the reality of the fate they have chosen sinks in?
I wonder and because I do not have the mind of God, I cannot know.
It occurred to me that this might be what Heaven will be like. Heaven will be the Christmas where the lights never have to come down, the summer vacation in the woods that never ends, the Monday off from work. This made me realize why it is that summer vacations are always so short and why Monday always seems to come around sooner than Friday is. I thought that I understood why we spend more time working than playing. Without the hard times, we might have little or no appreciation for leisure. The way that we lighten our load is to do all things in His Name.
There is something else I have been wondering about lately, and that is the sadness the the Lord must feel at the loss of so many souls. I remember reading once that God never rejects His creatures. What then does He feel when He cannot bring a soul to Himself because that soul spurned Him? Does He continue to hear the cries of those who are sent to the Netherworld as the reality of the fate they have chosen sinks in?
I wonder and because I do not have the mind of God, I cannot know.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen
The King gives a wedding banquet for his son, but the honored guests spurn the invitation. The Gospel tells us that the second round of guests came from all walks of life. One was too busy with his farm, another had to return to his merchandise.
Our priest reminded us today that if all who have been called would show up to the feast, the church would be overflowing with people and there would be many in the street clamoring to get in. That is not the scene at my church and there are probably few, if any, that would fit this description.
There are some days when things don't go so well for me, spiritually speaking, and I think to myself that if a truck came along and splattered me all over the interstate, I'd be hard-pressed to get into Heaven. And then I have a couple of thoughts about this. If we honestly try to do our best, it shouldn't be hard to imagine that a benevolent God would not pull the rug out from under us at a time when we're at a spiritual disadvantage. By no means I'm advocating a life of sin and assuming that God will call us when it's most convenient for us. I'm only saying that He knows we are human and bound to fall and that if we make every effort to keep His precepts, we will not find ourselves being cast into the darkness, with much moaning and gnashing of teeth.
We cannot comprehend God. We're not required to do so. We're required to have faith, to trust and to do our best, confident in the knowledge that His Grace will suffice.
Our priest reminded us today that if all who have been called would show up to the feast, the church would be overflowing with people and there would be many in the street clamoring to get in. That is not the scene at my church and there are probably few, if any, that would fit this description.
There are some days when things don't go so well for me, spiritually speaking, and I think to myself that if a truck came along and splattered me all over the interstate, I'd be hard-pressed to get into Heaven. And then I have a couple of thoughts about this. If we honestly try to do our best, it shouldn't be hard to imagine that a benevolent God would not pull the rug out from under us at a time when we're at a spiritual disadvantage. By no means I'm advocating a life of sin and assuming that God will call us when it's most convenient for us. I'm only saying that He knows we are human and bound to fall and that if we make every effort to keep His precepts, we will not find ourselves being cast into the darkness, with much moaning and gnashing of teeth.
We cannot comprehend God. We're not required to do so. We're required to have faith, to trust and to do our best, confident in the knowledge that His Grace will suffice.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Traditional Latin Mass For All Saints and All Souls
St. Paul Church at 10th and Christian Streets in South Philadelphia will celebrate the feast of All Saints on November 1st with a traditional Latin Mass at 7PM. The following evening, a solemn requiem Mass in the Extraordinary Form will be offered at 7PM for All Souls Day.
St. Paul is located on Christian Street between 9th and 10th Streets and there is free parking in the schoolyard directly across the street from the church.
If you are a blogger who lives in the vicinity of Philadelphia, please consider posting this information on your blog to help get the word to others.
Thank you!
St. Paul is located on Christian Street between 9th and 10th Streets and there is free parking in the schoolyard directly across the street from the church.
If you are a blogger who lives in the vicinity of Philadelphia, please consider posting this information on your blog to help get the word to others.
Thank you!
No Sense of Urgency
Tomorrow is Sunday, and in the United States, that has come to mean one thing: Football. Now, don't get me wrong - I enjoy Sunday football as much as anyone. But it's not a priority. Getting everyone to Mass and paying God the minimal homage He asks of is what drives the day. I try to refrain from food shopping and household tasks and to make it truly a day of rest and relaxation spent with the family. I would never think to skip the Noon TLM for an earlier Mass in order to catch a 1pm opening kick-off.
Turn on the television, listen to the radio or read the papers and you might think the nation was preparing for war every week. In a sense, it is. Football is a human demolition derby predicated on military strategies to advance in enemy territory. Since each team generally plays only 1 game per week, there is ample time to analyze what went wrong and what must be done to improve. Players are criticized, called out and scrutinized to an extent I certainly hope I would never have to endure at work each day. Then again, I don't get paid millions of dollars or subject my body, a temple of God, to punishment.
You will hear no such talk on Sunday about how to advance against the enemy of our souls to gain ground on our journey to Heaven. People will wear their football jerseys to Mass ( at the Novus Ordo, that is, I've never seen it happen at the TLM), skip out early or not bother to go at all if there is a game at stake.
Now, I will also admit to you that not only do I love watching football, but I can get rather emotional in rooting for my Cowboys. When they went to the playoffs against the NY Giants a few years back, I actually considered praying to St. Therese to help them win, but I just couldn't. When there are so many poor souls in need, even though I know God's generosity is boundless, I can not bring myself to pray in any sincerity for a pass not to get intercepted or for the kicker to make a 58-yard field goal. Nor would I pray to win the lottery or hit the jackpot at a casino. These are all frivolous activities that we enjoy and I think that would be ok if we didn't make them the be all, end all of our existence.
How many Catholics with seasons' tickets for an NFL team spend an iota of what they do on football to support their church? The Phillies have had something like 150 or so consecutive sellouts. Nothing wrong with watching baseball. But how many Catholics who plunk down $120 for two good seats at the Park would even thing about putting that much in a special collection to support their church or a mission? From the number of closings and churches in need of repair, I'd say not too many.
When is the last time you heard any of this mentioned in a sermon? Maybe the last time you heard your pastor talk about the devil or going to hell. There would be no need to talk about our obsession with sports at the TLM because the regulars who commit to a 90-minute or so Mass on Sundays are the choir. At the Novus Ordo, it's another story because there you would be more likely to encounter some folks who don't have their priorities straight.
I don't believe that God expects us to wear sack cloth and ash and spend our entire lives in a state of penance. But the flip side is that we are expected to keep the Sabbath holy and devote adequate time to prayer, penance and good works. Despite what some would like to think, we can't just do some of what is asked of us and ignore the rest. The "but I'm a good person, I don't hurt anyone" is not going to fly when when a strong defense is needed most.
It will take more than a good defense to gain entrance into Heaven. Daily Mass whenever possible, commitment to a strong prayer life and frequent confession are the minimal armor a warrior needs to do battle and make progress. Too bad not many will be reminded of this on Sunday, either because they couldn't be bothered to go to Mass or because the priest couldn't be bothered to discuss Heaven and Hell.
Turn on the television, listen to the radio or read the papers and you might think the nation was preparing for war every week. In a sense, it is. Football is a human demolition derby predicated on military strategies to advance in enemy territory. Since each team generally plays only 1 game per week, there is ample time to analyze what went wrong and what must be done to improve. Players are criticized, called out and scrutinized to an extent I certainly hope I would never have to endure at work each day. Then again, I don't get paid millions of dollars or subject my body, a temple of God, to punishment.
You will hear no such talk on Sunday about how to advance against the enemy of our souls to gain ground on our journey to Heaven. People will wear their football jerseys to Mass ( at the Novus Ordo, that is, I've never seen it happen at the TLM), skip out early or not bother to go at all if there is a game at stake.
Now, I will also admit to you that not only do I love watching football, but I can get rather emotional in rooting for my Cowboys. When they went to the playoffs against the NY Giants a few years back, I actually considered praying to St. Therese to help them win, but I just couldn't. When there are so many poor souls in need, even though I know God's generosity is boundless, I can not bring myself to pray in any sincerity for a pass not to get intercepted or for the kicker to make a 58-yard field goal. Nor would I pray to win the lottery or hit the jackpot at a casino. These are all frivolous activities that we enjoy and I think that would be ok if we didn't make them the be all, end all of our existence.
How many Catholics with seasons' tickets for an NFL team spend an iota of what they do on football to support their church? The Phillies have had something like 150 or so consecutive sellouts. Nothing wrong with watching baseball. But how many Catholics who plunk down $120 for two good seats at the Park would even thing about putting that much in a special collection to support their church or a mission? From the number of closings and churches in need of repair, I'd say not too many.
When is the last time you heard any of this mentioned in a sermon? Maybe the last time you heard your pastor talk about the devil or going to hell. There would be no need to talk about our obsession with sports at the TLM because the regulars who commit to a 90-minute or so Mass on Sundays are the choir. At the Novus Ordo, it's another story because there you would be more likely to encounter some folks who don't have their priorities straight.
I don't believe that God expects us to wear sack cloth and ash and spend our entire lives in a state of penance. But the flip side is that we are expected to keep the Sabbath holy and devote adequate time to prayer, penance and good works. Despite what some would like to think, we can't just do some of what is asked of us and ignore the rest. The "but I'm a good person, I don't hurt anyone" is not going to fly when when a strong defense is needed most.
It will take more than a good defense to gain entrance into Heaven. Daily Mass whenever possible, commitment to a strong prayer life and frequent confession are the minimal armor a warrior needs to do battle and make progress. Too bad not many will be reminded of this on Sunday, either because they couldn't be bothered to go to Mass or because the priest couldn't be bothered to discuss Heaven and Hell.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
The Daily Reflection I Received at Work Today (Very Apropos After The Nightmare)
| " Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. " I Corinthians 13:12 | |
This reflection is the property of Perfect Peace.
Earning My Children's Livelihood
This morning as I drove to work in near blackness, so dark was the road, I wondered why I do this every morning. Why do I leave my house at 5:30 AM and risk hitting a lovesick deer to start my day at Mass? An unexpected traffic snafu made me later than usual, and as I hurried down the corridor to make it to the chapel without being late, I heard a voice behind me say: "Hey, what's the hurry?"
I thought of the time St. Therese reproached a novice for dilly dallying on her way to chapel.
"Is this how a mother of souls earns her children's keep?"
And I borrowed her line, saying I didn't want to be late to earning my children's livelihood. But what does that mean?
Some people are really wonderful at saving money. I'm not one of them. Unfortunately, the green stuff means very little to me, so I think nothing of it, which I suppose is an easy thing to say when you have a job. What I'd like to think I'm very good at investing in is the spiritual life. Every Rosary when I have a splitting headache and would rather just go to sleep; every early-morning Mass when I'm tired and would like to sleep for another hour; every unkind thought or word that I prevent from escaping my lips - all of it adds up.
It is not just for me that I do what I do.
"Pick up a pin from a motive of love", said St. Therese "and you may save a soul."
If a soul as nearly perfect as hers could profit spiritually from so simple an act, imagine what our greater sacrifices might yield for us and for those we hold dear.
As far as success stories go, I'm at the bottom of the totem pole in our family. I still live in the city. I don't have a vacation home or a pool out back. I don't have a luxury car. Most of my furniture is second-hand stuff picked up over the year. And you know what? I couldn't care less.
My investments have helped procure miracles, bring about conversions and ease the suffering of friends and relatives. I trust that the times that I have worthily received and offered the Eucharist for the intention of the souls in Purgatory may have won someone's release.
"But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." St. Paul Corinthians 2 4:7
I thought of the time St. Therese reproached a novice for dilly dallying on her way to chapel.
"Is this how a mother of souls earns her children's keep?"
And I borrowed her line, saying I didn't want to be late to earning my children's livelihood. But what does that mean?
Some people are really wonderful at saving money. I'm not one of them. Unfortunately, the green stuff means very little to me, so I think nothing of it, which I suppose is an easy thing to say when you have a job. What I'd like to think I'm very good at investing in is the spiritual life. Every Rosary when I have a splitting headache and would rather just go to sleep; every early-morning Mass when I'm tired and would like to sleep for another hour; every unkind thought or word that I prevent from escaping my lips - all of it adds up.
It is not just for me that I do what I do.
"Pick up a pin from a motive of love", said St. Therese "and you may save a soul."
If a soul as nearly perfect as hers could profit spiritually from so simple an act, imagine what our greater sacrifices might yield for us and for those we hold dear.
As far as success stories go, I'm at the bottom of the totem pole in our family. I still live in the city. I don't have a vacation home or a pool out back. I don't have a luxury car. Most of my furniture is second-hand stuff picked up over the year. And you know what? I couldn't care less.
My investments have helped procure miracles, bring about conversions and ease the suffering of friends and relatives. I trust that the times that I have worthily received and offered the Eucharist for the intention of the souls in Purgatory may have won someone's release.
"But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." St. Paul Corinthians 2 4:7
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