Prayer And Sacraments

For Healing of Body, Mind, Spirit, Relationships

2010-10-27T02:18:00.000-07:00

Introduction This prayer is an adapted form of the original prayer given in the book, "Praying With Mary", by Janice T. Connell. This is a good prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, since it contains consecratory prayers, a selected Scripture passage, and the rosary. If you want to make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament and need a structure of prayer to follow, this one would be just right for

The Sto. Niño, the Nazareno, and Ina ng Laging Saklolo

2010-01-27T01:44:00.000-08:00

(This blog post will especially feature Filipino popular devotions to Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary.) Introduction There are three popular devotions rooted in folk Catholicism in the Philippines: the Sto. Niño (devotion to the Infant Jesus), the Señor Nazareno (devotion to the image of the Black Nazarene), and Ina ng Laging Saklolo (devotion to Mary as Our Lady of Perpetual Help). The

Mary's Part in the Sanctification of Christians

2009-12-21T02:37:00.000-08:00

Introduction Many Catholics devote themselves to Mary purely out of love for the Mother of God. Also, many have inherited this devotion from their parents or have learned to value its effectiveness from being involved in Marian groups and associations. But if we want to find a solid reason for the necessity of devotion to the Blessed Mother, St. Louis-Marie de Montfort in his book, "True

Learning Ways to Deepen Our Christian Life of Prayer

2009-10-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Introduction We can learn how to make our Christian life deeper by learning more about meditation and contemplation from the tradition of prayer practices by the Benedictine movement. This monastic movement, founded by St. Benedict of Nursia, developed in the history of our Church, and reached its zenith with the Cluny monastery (ca. 908-1156), the Cistercians of Citeaux (ca. 1098 -1142), and

In the Eucharist, We Receive Healing from God

2009-08-04T16:12:00.001-07:00

Introduction Although the Eucharist is placed in the list of sacraments, as one of the sacraments of initiation, it also has a direction towards healing. We will be more aware of this when we examine the prayers that lead towards that direction in the celebration of the sacrament. This blog post will therefore seek to discover what those prayers are in the Eucharistic celebration that can heal

Benefits of Praying the Rosary According to Montfort

2009-07-28T17:14:00.001-07:00

Introduction The roots of praying the rosary depends on the tradition in which its origin is seen. One tradition tells us that because the lay faithful could not pray the 150 psalms prayed by the more literate clergy and monks, they instead were given the simple prayer of 150 Hail Marys - which was much easier to memorize and recite. There is another tradition which relates the origin of the

On the Ascetical Life and the Deep Mystic Life

2009-07-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

Introduction This blog post will describe both the ascetical life and the deep mystic life as it is lived and practiced in the tradition of the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church (with a special feature on the Orthodox practice). The Orthodox faith sees the ascetical life, as a life, were "acquired" virtues are obtained thru personal effort, and accompanied by that general grace of

Faith Expressions of Catholics in the Philippines and the H1N1

2009-06-08T02:23:00.001-07:00

Introduction Though the Eucharist has a basic flow that all cultures in the world follow, each culture has a unique way of expressing their faith within the Mass. Filipinos, for one, have a unique way of expressing their faith in a loving and caring God. Other people of another culture who would see Filipinos use this distinct expression of their faith in the Mass, would witness a spirit of

Devotion to Mary, the Lady of All Nations

2009-05-15T15:50:00.001-07:00

In the book, "Our Blessed Mother: Mary in Catholic Tradition", author Therese Johnson Borchard lists down eight notable Marian apparitions with ecclesiastical approval. These eight apparitions are: Guadalupe, Mexico (1531) Paris, France (Rue de Bac, 1830) La Salette, France (1846) Lourdes, France (1858) Pontmaine, France (1871) Fatima, Portugal (1917) Beauraing, Belgium (1932-33) Banneux,

Seven Capital Sins, Seven Capital Virtues

2009-04-21T19:41:00.001-07:00

Introduction We learned from our catechism what the seven capital sins are. These sins are sins by which our fallen nature is inclined to commit, if we are not watchful and careful. They are also the sources of many of our human failings and errors. The seven capital sins are: pride, avarice (greed), lust, envy, gluttony, anger, and sloth. Pride comes from our inordinate desire to be held in

Discovering a Prayer Place

2009-04-13T18:11:00.000-07:00

In one of his books entitled "New Seeds of Contemplation", Thomas Merton, popular author of "The Seven Storey Mountain", emphasizes the importance of a prayer place for each and every one of us: Let there always be quiet, dark churches in which men can take refuge. Places where they can kneel in silence. Houses of God, filled with His silent presence. There, even when they do not know how to

Three Degrees of Knowledge According to St. Isaac the Syrian

2009-04-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

Introduction In the book, "In Search of True Wisdom", a character in the book called Father Panteleimon, spoke of three degrees of knowledge according to the teaching of St. Isaac the Syrian. These three degrees of knowledge are in relation to growth in divine knowledge of God according to the Orthodox spiritual tradition. Profane knowledge The first degree is called profane knowledge. This

Asceticism and Purgation in Christian Mysticism

2009-02-24T20:19:00.001-08:00

Introduction One of the foundations of Christian mystical practice is asceticism and purgation. The term asceticism comes from the Greek word askêsis - meaning any kind of serious physical training, such as what athletes do. During the time of the Church Fathers (the patristic period of Christian history), the Christians began to use the word in relation to the spiritual practices of

The Way of the Cross - The Way of Compassion

2009-02-19T15:38:00.001-08:00

The 14 Stations of the CrossOld tradition of the way of the cross There was a traditional way of the cross that Catholics used to perform every time the Lenten liturgical season arrived. This traditional way of the Cross involved entering into the mystery of the Passion of Christ by praying and meditating the events of His Passion. The 14 traditional stations of the cross are the following

Meditations for Lent, by John Garcia

2009-02-17T19:59:00.000-08:00

One of the best methods for helping us get into the spirit of prayer, reflection and meditation is spiritual reading. Most often, we are always on the go, meeting deadlines and finding ways to be on time. But Lent is a special season we should not miss in terms of the opportunity to put aside some time for spiritual reading and renew our faith and relationship with the Lord. It has been a

"God wishes to make Mary better known in the latter times."

2009-02-16T17:07:00.000-08:00

This post is not meant to make us worry or be anxious about the situation the world is now, but simply to take heart and follow the advise of St. Louis-Marie de Montfort to have a good and true devotion to the great mother of God, Mary most holy. Through our devotion to her, she will protect all her children at all times and in all places. This is a quote from St. Louis-Marie G. de Montfort in

St. Nilos of Soza's Teaching on How to Fight Evil Suggestions

2009-02-04T23:33:00.000-08:00

IntroductionThis blog post is based on the book, "In Search of True wisdom:Visits to Eastern Spiritual Fathers", by Sergius Bolshakoff andM. Basil Pennington, OSCO. The book is filled with the spiritualwisdom of the Eastern Church Fathers - many of whom are from theGreek and Russian Orthodox traditions.One method which these Eastern Church Fathers teach is the JesusPrayer (a prayer which is

Sunday Mass Readings, Year A

2009-01-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

Cycle of Readings For Sunday Mass - Year ASunday Mass Readings for the years 2005, 2008, 2011, and 2014Guide 1 - refers to Reading I 2 - refers to Reading II 3 - refers to Gospel Advent Season 1st Sunday of Advent 1 - Isaiah 2, 1-5 2 - Romans 13, 11-14 3 - Matthew 24, 37-44 2nd Sunday of Advent 1 - Isaiah 11, 1-10 2 - Romans 15, 4-9 3 - Matthew 3, 1-12 3rd Sunday of Advent 1 - Isaiah 35, 1-6a.

Sunday Mass Readings, Year B

2009-01-17T13:26:00.000-08:00

Cycle of Readings For Sunday Mass - Year BSunday Mass Readings for the years 2006, 2009, 2012, and 2015Guide 1 - refers to Reading I 2 - refers to Reading II 3 - refers to Gospel Advent Season 1st Sunday of Advent 1 - Isaiah 63, 16b-17. 19b; 64, 2b-7 2 - 1 Corinthians 1, 3-9 3 - Mark 13, 33-37 2nd Sunday of Advent 1 - Isaiah 40, 1-5. 9-11 2 - 2 Peter 3, 8-14 3 - Mark 1, 1-8 3rd Sunday of Advent

Sunday Mass Readings, Year C

2009-01-17T13:25:00.001-08:00

Cycle of Readings For Sunday Mass - Year CSunday Mass Readings for the years 2007, 2010, 2013, and 2016 Guide 1 - refers to Reading I 2 - refers to Reading II 3 - refers to Gospel Advent Season 1st Sunday of Advent 1 - Jeremiah 33, 14-16 2 - 1 Thessalonians 3,12 - 4,2 3 - Luke 21, 25-28. 34-36 2nd Sunday of Advent 1 - Baruch 5, 1-9 2 - Philippians 1, 4-6. 8-11 3 - Luke 3, 1-6 3rd Sunday of

Popular Novena Prayers for Catholics

2008-12-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

Classic and Popular NovenasTo the Holy Spirit O Holy Spirit, Third Person of the Blessed Trinity! Spirit of Truth, Love and Holiness, proceeding from the Father and the Son, and equal to Them in all things! I adore Thee and love Thee with all my heart. Teach me to know and to seek God, by whom and for whom I was created. Fill my heart with holy fear and love of God. Grant me compunction

Consecration of the Family to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

2008-12-06T23:11:00.000-08:00

Family Consecration to the Sacred Heart of JesusPrayer steps to consecrating your family to the Sacred Heart of JesusThe family consecration It is an act whereby the family devotes itself to the Sacred Heart as to its King, recognizes Him as its King, and promises to make Him reign and rule over the whole family. Two elements the head of the family recognizes the right of the Sacred Heart to

Praying the Four Mysteries of the Rosary

2008-12-05T21:58:00.001-08:00

How to Pray the RosarySteps in Praying the RosaryMany versions, but basically has a core of basic prayers There are many ways of praying the rosary but there is a basic core of steps that is usually followed. This article will try to stick as close as possible to the basic and core prayers in praying the rosary. The praying of the rosary is divided into four different mysteries When praying

Categories of Sacraments: Initiation, Healing and Service to Community

2008-12-05T16:48:00.001-08:00

The Sacraments of the Catholic ChurchThe Seven Sacraments are Signs of God's Love For UsThe Sacraments as Signs of God's Love For the ChurchThe sacraments are visible signs of God's love for the Church. Through the 7 sacraments that are instituted by Christ, God's sanctifying love is poured out for the salvation of man and for the graces needed to live a life according to Christ. Before, in the

Including the Five Mysteries of Light to the Traditional Rosary

2008-12-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

Understanding the Mysteries of LightThe Five Mysteries of Light of the RosaryThe Rosary The traditional rosary as is attributed to St. Dominic is composed of three mysteries: the joyful mystery, the sorrowful mystery, and the glorious mystery. Each of these mysteries are composed of five mysteries each and are contemplated upon when praying the rosary. The joyful mystery is meditated and

On the Liturgical Season of Advent in the Catholic Church

2008-11-23T14:14:00.001-08:00

The Liturgical Season of AdventThe liturgical season of Advent begins the liturgical year in the calendar of the Catholic church. It prepares Catholics for the feast and commemoration of the birth of the Christ-Child at Christmas. The season of Advent is a short liturgical season. It comprises four Sundays before the feast of Christmas on December 25. The four Sundays wherein the Advent

On the Jerusalem Community's Spirituality and Rule of Life

2008-11-18T17:25:00.000-08:00

A book review on In the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God by Pierre-Marie DelfieuxIn the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God is a very special book on monastic spirituality. It is unique because it describes the Jerusalem Community's rule of life - which is a spirituality that speaks of monasticism "in the midst of the world" - "in the heart of the city".A brief introductionThe

"The Seven Storey Mountain" by Thomas Merton

2008-11-17T02:26:00.000-08:00

A book review on The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas MertonThe Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton is a novel that would inspire any reader in search of God. The book is an autobiography of Merton's own search for God before he entered the Cistercian Order. This book would be a great help for anyone deciding to enter religious life or the seminary. It is also a refreshing reading experience

On the "New Man" by Thomas Merton

2008-11-17T02:25:00.000-08:00

A book review on The New Man by Thomas MertonThomas Merton became a popular author in the 60s with his book "The Seven Storey Mountain". In this book, he shares his reflections on Christ, as the new man who saves us from the sinof pride by his obedience to the Father. This book will be good for college and post-graduate students who want to deepen their understanding of Catholic philosophy and

A Catholic Prayer Book

2008-11-16T23:21:00.001-08:00

A Prayer Book Review on The Catholic Prayer Book compiled by Msgr. Michael Buckley and edited by Tony Castle For those who truly want to deepen their prayer life and also to know the basic prayers in the Catholic tradition, this is a prayer book that one can use regularly for one's spiritual exercises or as a prelude to all of one's work and activities. A brief introduction Msgr. Michael

Eight Days of the Spiritual Exercises

2008-11-16T14:06:00.000-08:00

A book review on Eight Days of The Spiritual Exercises by Florencio Segura, SJ and Randolph Lumabao, SJThis book is a very good guide for one's Christian life and can be read and reread many times for deepening one's commitment to Christ The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola The original Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola is written in a very terse and concise

Books on Prayer, Discernment and Spiritual Direction

2008-11-14T20:03:00.001-08:00

A brief introduction Fr. Thomas H. Green is well-known as a writer and speaker on the topics of prayer, discernment and spiritual direction. His style of writing is suited to both beginners and advanced seekers of knowledge in the spiritual life. Anyone who reads his books will truly like very much the popular way he treats his topics. And what is really remarkable in his treatment of

A Book on Contemplative Experience by a Vietnamese Cistercian Monk

2008-11-11T02:17:00.000-08:00

Contemplative ExperienceThis book by a Cistercian abbot and monk helps us to understand what the contemplative experience is through three sources: Scripture, the teaching of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and the teaching of the non-Christian monks and spiritual masters.The author of the bookThe author of the book is a Vietnamese Trappist monk who has been assigned to be the abbot of a monastery in

Two Books on Catholic Devotion by Author Therese Borchard

2008-11-09T23:00:00.000-08:00

"Our Catholic Prayer" & "Our Blessed Mother"Two good books that introduces well Catholic prayer and devotion to Mary are "Our Catholic Prayer" & "Our Blessed Mother", both written by Therese Johnson Borchard. These two works are excellent guidebooks that introduces prayer and devotion to Mary - edited and written in a user-friendly reference style by one who holds an M.A. in Theology from the

Books on the Art of Meditation

2008-11-09T17:13:00.000-08:00

Four books on the art and practice of meditation byFr. John Main, OSBMeditation is for all people: even those who lead busy lifestyles. Fr. John Main, OSB, teaches the practice of meditation for both monks and lay people in these four books: "Moment of Christ", "The Present Christ", "The Heart of Creation", and "Letters from the Heart"Fr. John Main, OSBFr. John Main, OSB, is the founder of the

Seven Ignatian Prayer Suggestions

2008-10-24T02:07:00.001-07:00

The Ignatian method of prayer is to place oneself into the Biblical scene and to become part of it by way of one's imagination. St. Ignatius of Loyola suggests that we try to imagine what we might see, what we might hear, and what the person in the scene might be doing. Always, at each point of the meditation, Ignatius says, we must "try to draw some practical fruit from the reflection for our

Seven Augustinian Prayer Suggestions

2008-10-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

IntroductionSt. Augustine and the monastic tradition that he founded, teaches a spiritual method, in which much time is invested in prayer and quiet meditation. The prolonged periods of prayer is necessary for a better relationship with God and for progress in one's personal development.Below are five prayer suggestions which you can use to practice the Augustinian method of praying.Prayer

The Prayer Method of St. Ignatius of Loyola

2008-10-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ignatian prayer is a method of prayer even more ancient than lectio divina that was used in the 4th century AD. Ignatian prayer is based on this ancient prayer that was used originally by the Israelites a thousand to twelve hundred years before Christ. Its basic trait is the remembrance of an event of salvation history. By immersing in the recollection of that event, the people in prayer

St. Benedict and His Way of Integration

2008-10-22T23:44:00.000-07:00

"Integration: The Way of St. Benedict" by Anselm Grun, OSBIntroduction:July 11 is when the Catholic Church honors the obligatory memorial of St. Benedict of Nursia - one of the six saints that was declared as patrons of Europe. The great influence of St. Benedict comes from his monastic spirituality - how itdeveloped beginning the 4th century and how the Rule from which it organized itself has

A Method of Praying the Holy Rosary

2008-10-22T00:04:00.001-07:00

Methods of Praying the RosaryPraying the rosaryJohn Paul II advised the Catholic faithful to pray the rosary.He especially emphasized this in his apostolic letter, RosariumVirginis Mariae, On the Most Holy Rosary. It is also in thisletter that he officially included the light or luminous mysteriesto be part of the traditional joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries. The holy rosary is a very

Praying with the Bible in One's Christian Life

2008-10-22T00:03:00.000-07:00

Prayerful Reading of ScripturePraying the Bible Last April 25, 2007 was the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. On the occasion of the, the holy father Pope Benedict XVI insists on the importance of a prayerful reading of the bible. He refers to the great theologian of early Christianity, Origen. According to Origen, scripture can be read three ways: on the literal sense, the moral sense and

Prayer in Franciscan Spirituality

2008-10-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

Franciscan Prayer - Praying in the Spirit of St. Francis of AssisiIntroductionFranciscan prayer makes full use of the five senses and it is a flexible and free-flowing prayer. It is a "spirit-filled prayer" - totally open to the presence and voice of the Holy Spirit present in all of creation. Those who use Franciscan prayer are able to see God in anything - making fruitful meditation on the

Prayer in Augustinian Spirituality

2008-10-20T19:38:00.001-07:00

Augustinian Prayer - the Prayer Method of St. AugustineIntroductionSt. Augustine and the monastic tradition that he founded, teaches a spiritual method, in which much time is invested in prayer and quiet meditation. The prolonged periods of prayer is necessary for a better relationship with God and for progress in one's personal development. Praying in the method of St. Augustine involves much

Praying With Mary - Marian Prayers

2008-10-20T01:38:00.001-07:00

"Praying With Mary" by Janice T. Connell Introduction:In Catholicism, the next most popular person after Christ and the one most loved by people of all walks of life is the Blessed Virgin Mary. So many prayers and writings have been produced that speak of the high esteem many Catholics have for the Mother of God. This book was authored and edited by Janice T. Connell and she said in her "

Devotion to Mary Brings 7 Wonderful Effects

2008-10-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

Seven Wonderful Effects of Devotion to MaryIntroductionIn his book, "The True Devotion to Mary", St. Louis-Marie deMontfort writes about seven wonderful effects that the faithfulpractice of devotion to Mary can produce in the soul. Theseseven wonderful effects upon the soul are:knowledge of our unworthinessa share in Mary's faiththe gift of pure lovegreat confidence in God and in

6 Apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2008-10-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Six Popular Apparitions of Mary Introduction There are many noted and recorded apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in different parts of the world. Of these apparitions, she appears often to children and youths of various races and cultures. The messages she presents to these young people are for the Church as a whole, but the revelation is either public or private. In some apparitions, the

In Search of True Wisdom

2008-10-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

In Search of True Wisdom: Visits to Eastern Spiritual Fathers, by Sergius Bolshakoff and M. Basil Pennington, OCSO Introduction:Christian spiritual tradition has a basic core and an essential body of truths and mores, that even the major rifts between the West and the East in the Eastern schism of 1054, has not changed radically the common understanding of God and prayer between them. Though

Jesus as a Man of Prayer in Luke's Gospel

2008-10-13T16:45:00.000-07:00

Jesus, A Man of PrayerLuke Presents Jesus as a Man of Prayer The theme of prayer in the gospel of Luke No other gospel probably has emphasized the theme of prayer as the gospel of Luke. Luke 5:15-16 says, "The report about Him [Jesus] spread all the more, and great crowds assembled to listen to Him and to be cured of their ailments, but He would withdraw to deserted places to pray." Jesus

The 7 Sacraments of the Catholic Church

2008-10-13T02:06:00.001-07:00

There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church. They are instituted by Christ to continue his salvific work through the Church.Definition:The following definitions of the sacraments come from the Catechism of the Catholic Churchthat come forth" from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving.(CCC #1116)Sacraments are"the masterworks of God" in the new and everlasting covenant. (

The Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation

2008-10-13T02:05:00.003-07:00

The sacrament of reconciliation restores our relationship with God and with our brothers and sisters. It is a sacrament of healing that heals us from our brokenness due to sin and transgression. It is also a sacrament that strengthens our personal relationship with Christ, as we receive His forgiveness and mercy in the sacrament and resolve to amend and reform our lives. Although the Church

The Sacrament of Eucharist

2008-10-13T02:05:00.002-07:00

The source and summit of Christian lifeEucharist is a sacrament of initiation that provides spiritual nourishment to Catholics for their Christian life. It is a celebration attended to by Catholics all over the world every Sunday in the parish in which they are resident of.Sacrament of initiation in the CatholicChurch: First communionThere are three sacraments of initiation in theCatholic Church:

Visible Church and Holy Orders

2008-10-13T02:02:00.001-07:00

The clergy leads under the guidance of the SpiritThe visible Church is composed of the clergy, the religious, and the lay faithful. More than just Church buildings and institutional systems, the Church is all the baptized who live Christ's teaching guided by the Holy Spirit through the official leadership of its clergy.The visible ChurchThe visible Church is not only the parishes andthe buildings

The Sacrament of Confirmation

2008-10-12T20:21:00.001-07:00

Confirmation completes baptismal grace Confirmation is a sacrament of initiation that completes the grace of baptism by the reception of the fullness of the Holy Spirit - making the person a mature Christian. The sacrament signifies the Christian as ready to undergo the struggles involved in the Christian life.Sacraments of initiation in the CatholicChurchTwo of seven sacraments in the Catholic

Baptism: The First Sacrament of Initiation

2008-10-12T20:20:00.001-07:00

Baptism is a sacrament of initation that makes one a member of God's family through the Catholic Church. In baptism, we become children of God and we are washed from the original sin committed by our first parents: Adam and Eve.Sacraments of initiation in the Catholic ChurchTo be incorporated as a member of the CatholicChurch, there are sacraments of initiation thatneed to be received. These are

The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick

2008-10-12T20:19:00.001-07:00

AnointingOne of the sacraments of healing is the sacrament of anointing of the sick. Before Vatican II, this sacramentused to be termed as extreme unction, and was associated with those nearing death. The new term of the sacrament gives a broader context to its meaning - making it to mean a sacrament of healing and not only in terms of giving to the sick already in the verge of death.Together

Dr. Karl Menninger Writes on Health through True Moral Values

2008-10-11T18:13:00.001-07:00

"Whatever Became of Sin?"A world-famous psychiatrist offers new hope for real emotional health through true moral valuesIntroductionDr. Karl Menninger, author of the book "Man Against Himself",has written "Whatever Became of Sin?" to outline an ethicalsystem for our world, to plead with us for a return toresponsibility for our own actions, and for a renewed recognition of sin. He brings back to

Dr. Karl Menninger Writes on Health through True Moral Values

2008-10-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

9 Modern Spiritual Writers Speak About Prayer

2008-10-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

Modern Spiritual Writers: Their Legacies of PrayerBy Charles J. Healey, S.J.Christian prayer definedPocket Catholic Dictionary author John A. Hardon, S.J., defines prayer as:"The voluntary response to the awareness of God's presence.This response may be an acknowledgment of God's greatnessand of a person's total dependence on him (adoration), orgratitude for his benefits to oneself and others (

Anthology on Christian Mysticism

2008-10-11T16:53:00.000-07:00

The Essential Writings of Christian MysticismEdited and with an Introduction by Bernard McGinnChristian Mysticism definedAuthor John A. Hardon, S.J., in his book, Pocket CatholicDictionary, defines Christian mysticism as:"The supernatural state of soul in which God is known ina way that no human effort or exertion could ever succeedin producing. There is an immediate, personal experienceof God

St. John of the Cross on the Dark Night

2008-10-08T14:08:00.003-07:00

St. John of the Cross on the Dark NightIntroductionIn the Christian's life of prayer, there is a spiritual experience when the person who began his prayer life well and experience God's nearness and consoling presence many times, suddenly now enters into an experience of aridity, dryness or emptiness. St. John of the Cross uses the symbolism of the "Dark Night" as a way to recognize and

Books and Resources on John Paul II

2008-10-07T17:21:00.000-07:00

Books and Resources on John Paul IIFor those interested in learning the spirituality of holiness and mission theology of John Paul II, given here below are a few books and other resources you may want to browse on, borrowfrom a library or friend, or also have the option to purchasea personal copy of it for your private library.John Paul II: Go In Peace - A Gift of Enduring Love, byeditor Joseph

Reading God's Word Prayerfully

2008-10-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

Reading God’s Word for Personal Growth and Spiritual EnrichmentIntroductionThose who teach the bible often make reference to the scripture as text not only to be studied objectively, but also, and much more meaningfully, as a source for spiritual enrichment and personal growth. Everyday, Catholics are given the opportunity to be one with the Word of God through the weekday lectionary readings of

The Rosary, Marian Devotion, Montfortian Spirituality, and Contemplative Experience

2008-10-03T16:23:00.001-07:00

The subject of prayer Prayer is one topic which is popular, since it applies to all Catholics regardless of age or in their knowledge of their Catholic faith. One can write many things about prayer since the Catholic tradition is very rich in this aspect of the faith. The rosary and Marian devotion A veritable source of content for the topic of prayer is the praying of the rosary. And the

2008-10-03T16:22:00.001-07:00

Learning More About the EucharistA sacrament rich in tradition and mysteryThe Eucharist is truly a great sacrament and a rich liturgical tradition, that no one article can completely teach about its full meaning. Also, it is so deep a sacramental reality and mystery that one is called to live it and know it in its fullness as one lives his Christian life in heart and mind and actions. Given the

2008-10-03T16:22:00.000-07:00

2008-10-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

Praying the Rosary in Montfortian SpiritualityMost blessed ways of praying the rosaryWhat St. Louis-Marie de Montfort says of the rosaryit is a secret to capture the interest of everyone: to win the hardest heart and the most despairing people; to conserve souls in the state of grace; and to help others aspire to perfectionit is destined for everyone: the learned and the ignorant, the just and

2008-10-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Consecration to Jesus through MaryA Perfect Renewal of the Vows of BaptismA giving of oneself entirely to Mary to belong entirely to Jesus According to St. Louis-Marie de Montfort (1673-1716), a French priest and founder of religious congregations, the "perfect consecration to Jesus is but a perfect and complete consecration of oneself to the Blessed Virgin". It is also "the perfect

Continuation at The Nexus Blog

2006-08-09T05:10:00.002-07:00

This message is meant for those who have come upon thisblog for information or content. The continuation ofthis blog will be at The Nexus Blog. The url for thatblog is http://www.pcentral-online.net/blog3/ However,to continue bridging the content in this blog with TheNexus Blog, reference to this blog will always be givenas a source for information and content [archives].Dennis Emmanuel

Continuation at The Nexus Blog

2006-08-09T05:10:00.001-07:00

Continuation of posts at "The Nexus"

2006-06-19T14:41:00.001-07:00

The continuation of posts in this blog will beat "The Nexus"

Continuation of posts at "The Nexus"

2006-06-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

The continuation of posts in this blog will beat "The Nexus"

2006-03-07T19:15:00.001-08:00

The Sacraments of HealingMany Catholics often do not really see the strong healing power the sacraments of reconciliation and the sacrament of the anointing of the sick can do for our journey to wholeness and healing. Often, we rely mainly on medications and what the physician or doctor tells us. This is true and important certainly, but we have to see that our ailments and illnesses have some

2006-03-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

2006-02-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

"Conflict, noise and turbulence"Often, when critical moments arrive, this is a time of much noise, turbulence, problems, difficulties and strife. It is hard to make serious decisions at this point, but decisions must be made nevertheless. Whatever the decisions we are called to make, it is wise to keep to the important decisions we have made prior to this critical time as guidelines into what

The Call for Deeper Prayer

2006-02-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

In this time of much confusion and busyness, a recollection or retreat would really do us good. Especially in this time when Lent is fast approaching, we can take more time for prayer, for fasting and to do acts of mercy.This coming Wednesday, March 1, 2006, is Ash Wednesday. It is a day of fasting and abstinence. By fasting, we mean less intake of food. And by abstinence, the Church teaches

2006-01-16T02:43:00.001-08:00

Reflecting on the Miracle of the LoavesThe miracle of the loaves is a prefigurement of what we now have in the sacrament of the Eucharist. Just as Jesus multiplied the few loaves and fish into food that fed thousands of men including their wives and children, so Jesus continues to feed the world today with his body and blood in the Eucharist.As a communion minister, I am often awed by the fact

2006-01-16T02:43:00.000-08:00

2006-01-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

When an Opportunity is not a TemptationIn our desire to do the best that the Lord wants us to become for our good and the good of others, opportunities present themselves more to us. However, we should not take all the opportunities that come our way. Some of the opportunities that may present themselves to us may lead us to a direction of sin. This is what we have to avoid. What are those

In the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God

2006-01-06T03:26:00.000-08:00

There is a book I've read once and continue to refer to many times when I want to do spiritual reading. This book is called "In the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God". It is a book on the rule of life of the Jerusalem Communities in France. The community is a monastic community but lives and works in the "heart of the city"The book is really rich with much spiritual insight and wisdom.

2005-11-17T16:46:00.001-08:00

A Cubit More is FalseIn the book, Eight Days of the Spiritual Exercises, Fr. Florencio Segura, SJ, speaks about our common sin of adding a cubit more to our stature. This we often do through having more things or pretending to be more than what we are. He however, distinguishes between being more as persons through love of God and being in sin when we become more through the sense of having and

2005-11-17T16:46:00.000-08:00

A Contemporary Presentation of St. Ignatius of Loyola's Spiritual Exercises

2005-11-17T14:19:00.000-08:00

This is a book I've recently read and it is very good. It is a summarized form of The Spiritual Exercises and is written by Florencio Segura, SJ and Randolph Lumabao, SJ. Those who like me have read the original Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and have tried its pointers for meditation, and have not fully understood how to go about it, this book will explain in more detail and from a

The Image of Christ Within Us

2005-11-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

When God created man, He created man in His own image. However, this image was tarnished and tainted with sin when man disobeyed His will. Through baptism, the image of God is made more manifest as we are washed of our original sin. It is this image of God that becomes the image of Christ also as we contemplate more on His Word and frequent the sacraments and do the Lord's will through acts of

2005-10-08T06:47:00.001-07:00

The Publican and Pharisee In UsAs we are called to approach the Lord in prayer, even if we may not be aware of it, we have in our being either the attitude of the Pharisee or the Publican. And often, when we pray and there are those who pray with us, we might see someone whom we despise and see as less virtuous than us. That is the Pharisee in us. At other times, we see more our sinfulness and

2005-10-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

Applying the Colloquy in the Spiritual Exercises to One's Spiritual Life

2005-10-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

One thing I've learned while reading the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius was the colloquy on: 'What have I done for Christ?' 'What am I doing for Christ?' 'What ought I to do for Christ?' Answering this questions before the presence of the Lord really will help one have a sense of where one is as of now, spiritually. There will be a sense of sin discovered, a sense of misgivings and

Quiet time, Quality time

2005-10-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Those of us who are working and are busy with earning a living, should not forget to take some quiet time and quality time before the Lord. Even if we do not feel like it. Even if we do not need anything. Even if we do not need to thank Him for anything. Or even if we have a very tight schedule and are called to do many things. Just some minutes or a half hour before the Blessed Sacrament

2005-09-03T15:55:00.001-07:00

The Eucharist is a Gift of LoveMany Catholics may not be aware of it but the Eucharist is a gift of love for us. It is the gift of universal love - a love that encompasses all peoples and all cultures. All are called to be part of the Eucharist. But to be part of the Eucharist the person must be baptized first into the Catholic Church. To be baptized in the Catholic Church entails undergoing

2005-09-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

2005-08-30T04:28:00.000-07:00

Discerning our DirectionUsually, the best way we can discern our direction in life is through a spiritual director. However, we must not let our spiritual director make the decision for us. It is finally we ourselves who, after getting all the sides of the situation objectively from our spiritual director, will make the decision. Decisions are not easy because they cut through things. They "

Eucharistic Adoration

2005-08-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

Probably the best way to receive the gift of contemplation is to spend time before the Blessed Sacrament. Adoration to the presence of God in His most Blessed Sacrament has been a longheld tradition in the Church. This can be done individually or in community. Those in religious communities usually do their adoration and integrate it with their evening prayers in the breviary. Those in the

2005-08-18T15:42:00.001-07:00

The Sacrament of ConfessionMany Catholics today are called to return to the sacrament of penance and reconciliation. Although it is true that priests are hard to find in order to avail of this sacrament, there are occasions in the life of a parish when priests make themselves available for confession. Whenever the opportunity comes to your parish, do not hesitate or tarry in making a confession

2005-08-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

2005-08-15T23:35:00.000-07:00

Discerning God's Will for Urgent SituationsWhat should we do when an immediate decision and action is necessary and we need to know God's will fast? The best thing to do when an immediate decision and action is necessary is to get grounded in God first through stillness and not let the rush of the ratings race get to you. Then we are called to see how urgent really is the decision and action.

2005-07-17T01:19:00.001-07:00

Eucharist: A Hope of the Catholic ChurchAs we continue to emphasize the centrality of the Eucharist in the Catholic faith, we can also see it as a hope that will never die as long as we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who Himself, instituted the sacrament at the Last Supper. The sacrament continually reminds us that before Jesus died on the Cross, He gathered all His apostles and reminded them

2005-07-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

2005-07-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Four Kinds of Temperament in PrayerThere are four kinds of temperament in prayer: Ignatian, Augustinian, Franciscan, and Thomistic. Each of us has his own style of praying. However, because of our own personality types, we come closest to one of these four kinds of prayer temperaments. You can check out what kind of temperament in prayer you come closest to by reading the brief descriptions

The Interior Life Needs a Great Amount of Discipline

2005-06-27T04:55:00.000-07:00

Philosophy tells us that action follows being. Therefore, if we logically follow this truth, then if our actions are to be Christ-like, then our being must be filled with the Spirit of Christ. And we can only do this if we keep to a disciplined prayer life - taking care that we do not neglect to go within the interior part of our self where we can discover the Lord more if we listen deep enough

2005-06-11T21:22:00.001-07:00

New developments in the website, Catholic Internet MissionThis blog will also give some updates on anything new in the website, Catholic Internet Mission. Originally meant to be a journal of very deep prayerful reflections, it has also become a venue to give updates on the website.The website has many Catholic articles from which you can derive any information you may wish to search about as

2005-06-11T21:22:00.000-07:00