St. Ignatius of Loyola *
(1491-1556)

The founder of the Jesuits was on his way to military fame and fortune when a cannon ball shattered his leg. Because there were no books of romance on hand during his convalescence, he whiled away the time reading a life of Christ and lives of the saints. His conscience was deeply touched, and a long, painful turning to Christ began. Having seen the Mother of God in a vision, he made a pilgrimage to her shrine at Montserrat (near Barcelona). He remained for almost a year at nearby Manresa, sometimes with the Dominicans, sometimes in a pauper's hospice, often in a cave in the hills praying. After a period of great peace of mind, he went through a harrowing trial of scruples. There was no comfort in anything prayer, fasting, sacraments, penance. At length, his peace of mind returned.

It was during this year of conversion that he began to write down material that later became his greatest work, the Spiritual Exercises.

He finally achieved his purpose of going to the Holy Land, but could not remain, as he planned, because of the hostility of the Turks. He spent the next 11 years in various European universities, studying with great difficulty, beginning almost as a child. Like many others, he fell victim twice to the suspicions of the time, and was twice jailed for brief periods.

In 1534, at the age of 43, he and six others (one of whom was St. Francis Xavier) vowed to live in poverty and chastity and to go to the Holy Land. If this became impossible, they vowed to offer themselves to the apostolic service of the pope. The latter became the only choice. Four years later Ignatius made the association permanent. The new Society of Jesus was approved by Paul III, and Ignatius was elected to serve as the first general.

When companions were sent on various missions by the pope, Ignatius remained in Rome, consolidating the new venture, but still finding time to found homes for orphans, catechumens and penitents. He founded the Roman College, intended to be the model of all other colleges of the Society.

Ignatius was a true mystic. He centered his spiritual life on the essential foundations of Christianity the Trinity, Christ, the Eucharist. His spirituality is expressed in the Jesuit motto, ad majorem Dei gloriam for the greater glory of God. In his concept, obedience was to be the prominent virtue, to assure the effectiveness and mobility of his men. All activity was to be guided by a true love of the Church and unconditional obedience to the Holy Father, for which reason all professed members took a fourth vow to go wherever the pope should send them for the salvation of souls.

Comment:

Luther nailed his theses to the church door at Wittenberg in 1517. Seventeen years later, Ignatius founded the Society that was to play so prominent a part in the Counter-Reformation. He was an implacable foe of Protestantism. Yet the seeds of ecumenism may be found in his words: Great care must be taken to show forth orthodox truth in such a way that if any heretics happen to be present they may have an example of charity and Christian moderation. No hard words should be used nor any sort of contempt for their errors be shown. One of the greatest twentieth-century ecumenists was Cardinal Bea, a Jesuit.

Quote:

Ignatius recommended this prayer to penitents: Receive, Lord, all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. You have given me all that I have, all that I am, and I surrender all to your divine will, that you dispose of me. Give me only your love and your grace. With this I am rich enough, and I have no more to ask.

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)




*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org

____________________________

A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.



Today's Scripture

"A wide door has been open to me and with it are many adversaries." (I Corinthians 16:9)

Today's WordGod is always giving you opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. Anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God also promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what comes against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the champion in you!

A Prayer for Today

God, I will be the steadfast Christian You called me to be with the help of prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship. I have faith that I will overcome whatever comes my way. In Jesus' Name – Amen.

Thank you, God bless.

Lots of love and prayers.

St. Peter Chrysologus *
(406-450?)

A man who vigorously pursues a goal may produce results far beyond his expectations and his intentions. Thus it was with Peter of the Golden Words, as he was called, who as a young man became bishop of Ravenna, the capital of the empire in the West.

At the time there were abuses and vestiges of paganism evident in his diocese, and these he was determined to battle and overcome. His principal weapon was the short sermon, and many of them have come down to us. They do not contain great originality of thought. They are, however, full of moral applications, sound in doctrine and historically significant in that they reveal Christian life in fifth-century Ravenna. So authentic were the contents of his sermons that, some 13 centuries later, he was declared a doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIII. He who had earnestly sought to teach and motivate his own flock was recognized as a teacher of the universal Church.

In addition to his zeal in the exercise of his office, Peter Chrysologus was distinguished by a fierce loyalty to the Church, not only in its teaching, but in its authority as well. He looked upon learning not as a mere opportunity but as an obligation for all, both as a development of God-given faculties and as a solid support for the worship of God.

Comment:

Quite likely, it was St. Peter Chrysologus’s attitude toward learning that gave substance to his exhortations. Next to virtue, learning, in his view, was the greatest improver of the human mind and the support of true religion. Ignorance is not a virtue, nor is anti-intellectualism. Knowledge is neither more nor less a source of pride than physical, administrative or financial prowess. To be fully human is to expand our knowledge—whether sacred or secular—according to our talent and opportunity.


(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)




*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org

____________________________

A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.




Today's Scripture

"Before you were ever formed in your mother's womb, God saw you and He approved you." (Jeremiah 1:5)

Today's Word You are approved by Almighty God! You are created in His image and you're the apple of His eye. You did not choose God, but He chose you and He is pleased with you–His most precious creation.Notice that verse doesn't say that God approves you as long as you don't have any faults, or as long as you don't make any mistakes. No, God approves you unconditionally. No matter how many weaknesses you may think you have today, no matter how many times you fall in your walk with God, you've got to get right back up again and hold your head up high. Don't allow the enemy to bring strife into your life by deceiving you into thinking that you are not "good enough" for the plan of God. Stand strong in your thoughts about yourself knowing that not only have you been chosen, but you are approved by Almighty God.

A Prayer for Today

God, Thank you for your unconditional acceptance. I was made in Your image and born with your approval...and that makes me good enough for any challenge I face in this life. I will hold my head up high and look for opportunities to share this message with my brothers and sisters and friends in Christ. In Jesus' Name – Amen.






Thank you. Gold bless.
Lots of love and prayers.

St. Martha *


Martha, Mary and their brother Lazarus were evidently close friends of Jesus. He came to their home simply as a welcomed guest, rather than as one celebrating the conversion of a sinner like Zacchaeus or one unceremoniously received by a suspicious Pharisee. The sisters feel free to call on Jesus at their brother's death, even though a return to Judea at that time seems almost certain death.

No doubt Martha was an active sort of person. On one occasion (see Luke 10:38-42) she prepares the meal for Jesus and possibly his fellow guests and forthrightly states the obvious: All hands should pitch in to help with the dinner.

Yet, as Father John McKenzie points out, she need not be rated as an unrecollected activist. The evangelist is emphasizing what our Lord said on several occasions about the primacy of the spiritual: ...[D]o not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear….But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness (Matthew 6:25b, 33a); One does not live by bread alone (Luke 4:4b); Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness… (Matthew 5:6a).

Martha's great glory is her simple and strong statement of faith in Jesus after her brother's death. Jesus told her, I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this? She said to him, Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world (John 11:25-27).


Comment:

Scripture commentators point out that in writing his account of the raising of Lazarus, St. John intends that we should see Martha's words to Mary before the resurrection of Lazarus as a summons that every Christian must obey. In her saying The teacher is here and is asking for you, Jesus is calling every one of us to resurrection now in baptismal faith, forever in sharing his victory over death. And all of us, as well as these three friends, are in our own unique way called to special friendship with him.


Quote:

Even in this life the Spirit transforms us.... When Moses turned towards the Lord, his face shone in the reflection of God: when the believer turns towards the Lord Jesus and contemplates his glorious face, he is transformed into an ever brighter image of that same glory. And this irradiating power which transforms us into beings of light only comes from Christ because he himself is wholly penetrated by that Spirit (Durrwell, The Resurrection).



(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)






*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org


____________________________

Thank you, God bless.
Lots of love and prayers to all.

St. Leopold Mandic *
(1887-1942)


Western Christians who are working for greater dialogue with Orthodox Christians may be reaping the fruits of Father Leopold’s prayers.

A native of Croatia, Leopold joined the Capuchin Franciscans and was ordained several years later in spite of several health problems. He could not speak loudly enough to preach publicly. For many years he also suffered from severe arthritis, poor eyesight and a stomach ailment.

Leopold taught patrology, the study of the Church Fathers, to the clerics of his province for several years, but he is best known for his work in the confessional, where he sometimes spent 13-15 hours a day. Several bishops sought out his spiritual advice.

Leopold’s dream was to go to the Orthodox Christians and work for the reunion of Roman Catholicism and Orthodoxy. His health never permitted it. Leopold often renewed his vow to go to the Eastern Christians; the cause of unity was constantly in his prayers.

At a time when Pope Pius XII said that the greatest sin of our time is "to have lost all sense of sin," Leopold had a profound sense of sin and an even firmer sense of God’s grace awaiting human cooperation.


Comment:

St. Francis advised his followers to "pursue what they must desire above all things, to have the Spirit of the Lord and His holy manner of working" (Rule of 1223, Chapter 10)—words that Leopold lived out. When the Capuchin minister general wrote his friars on the occasion of Leopold’s beatification, he said that this friar’s life showed "the priority of that which is essential."

Quote:

Leopold used to repeat to himself: “Remember that you have been sent for the salvation of people, not because of your own merits, since it is the Lord Jesus and not you who died for the salvation of souls.... I must cooperate with the divine goodness of our Lord who has deigned to choose me so that by my ministry, the divine promise would be fulfilled: ‘There will be only one flock and one shepherd’” (John 10:16).

(This entry appears in the print edition of Day by Day With Followers of Francis and Clare.)

*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org


____________________________

He knows the limit.

I was tested. I was tired. I was about to quit, but Pa said Son, do you think am giving you something which you can't shoulder? I am your Father I know what is your limit. FIGHT !! ... FIGHT till the end , and hold on to what you have ( revelation 3.11 ). I am with you. I wont rest, I wont leave you and go for shopping, I dont have a blind date at the creek. I am not going to loose you, you are my baby.

1 Corinthians Chapter 10

By the example of the Israelites, he shows that we are not to build too much upon favours received but to avoid their sins and fly from the service of idols and from things offered to idols.

10:13. Let no temptation take hold on you, but such as is human. And God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that which you are able: but will make also with temptation issue, that you may be able to bear it.
Temptatio vos non adprehendat nisi humana fidelis autem Deus qui non patietur vos temptari super id quod potestis sed faciet cum temptatione etiam proventum ut possitis sustinere

Let no temptation take hold on you... Or, no temptation hath taken hold of you or come upon you as yet, but what is human, or incident to man. Issue... or a way to escape.



Blessed Antonio Lucci *
(1682-1752)

Antonio studied with and was a friend of St. Francesco Antonio Fasani, who after Antonio Lucci’s death testified at the diocesan hearings regarding the holiness of Lucci.

Born in Agnone in southern Italy, a city famous for manufacturing bells and copper crafts, he was given the name Angelo at Baptism. He attended the local school run by the Conventual Franciscans and joined them at the age of 16. Antonio completed his studies for the priesthood in Assisi, where he was ordained in 1705. Further studies led to a doctorate in theology and appointments as a teacher in Agnone, Ravello and Naples. He also served as guardian in Naples.

Elected minister provincial in 1718, the following year he was appointed professor at St. Bonaventure College in Rome, a position he held until Pope Benedict XIII chose him as bishop of Bovino (near Foggia) in 1729. The pope explained, "I have chosen as bishop of Bovino an eminent theologian and a great saint."

His 23 years as bishop were marked by visits to local parishes and a renewal of gospel living among the people of his diocese. He dedicated his episcopal income to works of education and charity. At the urging of the Conventual minister general, Bishop Lucci wrote a major book about the saints and blesseds in the first 200 years of the Conventual Franciscans.

He was beatified in 1989, three years after his friend Francesco Antonio Fasani was canonized.


Comment:

As Pope Paul VI wrote in 1975, people today "are more impressed by witnesses than by teachers, and if they listen to these it is because they also bear witness" (Evangelization in the Modern World, #41).

Quote:

When Francis of Assisi learned that Anthony of Padua was teaching theology to the friars in Bologna, Francis wrote: "It pleases me that you teach sacred theology to the brothers, as long as—in the words of the Rule—you do not extinguish the spirit of prayer and devotion with study of this kind."


(This entry appears in the print edition of Day by Day With Followers of Francis and Clare.)





*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org


____________________________



A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.



Today's Scripture

"...then God blessed them, and said to them, 'be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it...'" (Genesis 1:28)

Today's Word Are you missing out on the joys of life because you are too busy? Are you over-committed? God called you to be fruitful – He never called you to be busy. Don't get activity mixed up with productivity. Just because you are on the go, and always doing things–even godly things–doesn't necessarily mean that you're fulfilling God's best plan for your life.We encourage you to prayerfully take inventory of the different activities in your life. Ask the Lord to show you which areas need to be pruned, and which areas need more focus. Ask Him to show which relationships to move away from, and which relationships to cultivate in your life. Stop allowing the unfruitful areas of your life to consume all of your time, focus, and energy. As you make adjustments to bring balance to your schedule, invest in the activities and relationships that bring you joy and peace. As you do, you will experience God's abundant blessing in every area of life!

A Prayer for Today

God, I will find time every day to pray. I will order my steps and make time for the things that really matter. There are areas in my life that need to be pruned so I can live a more purposeful life. Thank you for your perfect plan for my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.






Thank you. God bless
Lots of love and prayer

we are the dearest to the lord.

I was once feeling desperate and I prayed to the Lord, 'God fill me with your love'. And do you know what happened? he filled me, to the brim and it was flowing out I couldnt help hide my joy and fullness. I felt like squeezing and hugging all I see, and oh ! what a wonderful time...

Pa gave me this word once - Isaiah 43 : 1 -

Isaias Chapter 43

God comforts his church, promising to protect her for ever: he expostulates with the Jews for their ingratitude.

43:1. And now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and formed thee, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed thee, and called thee by thy name: thou art mine.
Et nunc haec dicit Dominus creans te Iacob et formans te Israhel noli timere quia redemi te et vocavi nomine tuo meus es tu

43:2. When thou shalt pass through the waters, I will be with thee, and the rivers shall not cover thee: when thou shalt walk in the fire, thou shalt not be burnt, and the flames shall not burn in thee:
Cum transieris per aquas tecum ero et flumina non operient te cum ambulaveris in igne non conbureris et flamma non ardebit in te

43:3. For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I have given Egypt for thy atonement, Ethiopia and Saba for thee.
Quia ego Dominus Deus tuus Sanctus Israhel salvator tuus dedi propitiationem tuam Aegyptum Aethiopiam et Saba pro te

43:4. Since thou becamest honourable in my eyes, thou art glorious: I have loved thee, and I will give men for thee, and people for thy life.
Ex quo honorabilis factus es in oculis meis et gloriosus ego dilexi te et dabo homines pro te et populos pro anima tua

43:5. Fear not, for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west.
Noli timere quoniam tecum ego sum ab oriente adducam semen tuum et ab occidente congregabo te


I was thoughtful for a moment, Pa is even ready to give up parts of his own creation to save his image. Our God is an awesome God, there is nothing less I could think. Fear not my children Papa is here... donot be afraid, I have saved you... if somebody bargains for you I will give up sudan and egypt ... but I will not loose you. THINK...!! what are we ? Mighty Powerful Pa is saying I love you my child you are mine, whatever happens am not going to loose you.
How can we possible thank him enough? but then strive earnstly to live his dreams thats what children are for sacrifice yours and the reward will be great am sure.


____________________________

Sts. Joachim and Ann*


In the Scriptures, Matthew and Luke furnish a legal family history of Jesus, tracing ancestry to show that Jesus is the culmination of great promises. Not only is his mother’s family neglected, we also know nothing factual about them except that they existed. Even the names Joachim and Ann come from a legendary source written more than a century after Jesus died.

The heroism and holiness of these people, however, is inferred from the whole family atmosphere around Mary in the Scriptures. Whether we rely on the legends about Mary’s childhood or make guesses from the information in the Bible, we see in her a fulfillment of many generations of prayerful persons, herself steeped in the religious traditions of her people.
The strong character of Mary in making decisions, her continuous practice of prayer, her devotion to the laws of her faith, her steadiness at moments of crisis, and her devotion to her relatives—all indicate a close-knit, loving family that looked forward to the next generation even while retaining the best of the past.

Joachim and Ann—whether these are their real names or not—represent that entire quiet series of generations who faithfully perform their duties, practice their faith and establish an atmosphere for the coming of the Messiah, but remain obscure.

Comment:

This is the “feast of grandparents.” It reminds grandparents of their responsibility to establish a tone for generations to come: They must make the traditions live and offer them as a promise to little children. But the feast has a message for the younger generation as well. It reminds the young that older people’s greater perspective, depth of experience and appreciation of life’s profound rhythms are all part of a wisdom not to be taken lightly or ignored.

Quote:

The family is the foundation of society. In it the various generations come together and help one another to grow wise and to harmonize personal rights with the other requirements of social life” (Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, 52).






(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org



____________________________





A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.




Today's Scripture


"If God is for us, who is against us?" (Romans 8:31)


Today's Word The Bible says that we are more than conquerors through Christ. Rise up and see yourself as an overwhelming champion in Him! You can be and you will be victorious through Him. The problems that so often intimidate and defeat many people can't have a firm hold on you if you're sold out completely to Christ. Someone who belongs completely to Christ knows the strength and victory that comes through Him. Here's something to remember today: if Christ is on your side, it doesn't really matter who is against you! The opponents you face don't really matter, and don't amount to much, when Christ is standing next to you.


A Prayer for Today


God, I know that You are on my side and that the other side doesn't matter. Please give me the strength to stand against the giants that intimidate others. In Jesus' Name. Amen.






Thank you. God bless
Lots of love and prayer

for all needs.

4:19. And may my God supply all your want, according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Deus autem meus impleat omne desiderium vestrum secundum divitias suas in gloria in Christo Iesu

4:20. Now to God and our Father be glory, world without end. Amen.Deo autem et Patri nostro gloria in saecula saeculorum amen.

The Arabian fable, Aladdin and the magic lamp is what comes to my mind [:)] Ask anything in my name, don’t doubt, and believe that you have already got it. When compare to Aladdin we have so less to do, no rubbing lamp, no waking up Genie, but then to ask with our hearts open. Our Sweet Pa says, am with you always, ask …


St. James the Greater *

This James is the brother of John the Evangelist. The two were called by Jesus as they worked with their father in a fishing boat on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had already called another pair of brothers from a similar occupation: Peter and Andrew. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him (Mark 1:19-20).

James was one of the favored three who had the privilege of witnessing the Transfiguration, the raising to life of the daughter of Jairus and the agony in Gethsemani.

Two incidents in the Gospels describe the temperament of this man and his brother. St. Matthew tells that their mother came (Mark says it was the brothers themselves) to ask that they have the seats of honor (one on the right, one on the left of Jesus) in the kingdom. Jesus said in reply, You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I am going to drink? They said to him, We can (Matthew 20:22). Jesus then told them they would indeed drink the cup and share his baptism of pain and death, but that sitting at his right hand or left was not his to give it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father (Matthew 20:23b). It remained to be seen how long it would take to realize the implications of their confident.

The other disciples became indignant at the ambition of James and John. Then Jesus taught them all the lesson of humble service: The purpose of authority is to serve. They are not to impose their will on others, or lord it over them. This is the position of Jesus himself. He was the servant of all; the service imposed on him was the supreme sacrifice of his own life.
On another occasion, James and John gave evidence that the nickname Jesus gave them sons of thunder was an apt one. The Samaritans would not welcome Jesus because he was on his way to hated Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them? Jesus turned and rebuked them... (Luke 9:54-55).

James was apparently the first of the apostles to be martyred. About that time King Herod laid hands upon some members of the church to harm them. He had James, the brother of John, killed by the sword, and when he saw that this was pleasing to the Jews he proceeded to arrest Peter also (Acts 12:1-3a).

This James, sometimes called James the Greater, is not to be confused with the author of the Letter of James and the leader of the Jerusalem community.

Comment:

The way the Gospels treat the apostles is a good reminder of what holiness is all about. There is very little about their virtues as static possessions, entitling them to heavenly reward. Rather, the great emphasis is on the Kingdom, on God's giving them the power to proclaim the Good News. As far as their personal lives are concerned, there is much about Jesus purifying them of narrowness, pettiness, fickleness.

Quote:

...Christ the Lord, in whom the entire revelation of the most high God is summed up (see 2 Corinthians 1:20; 3:16–4:6), having fulfilled in his own person and promulgated with his own lips the Gospel promised by the prophets, commanded the apostles to preach it to everyone as the source of all saving truth and moral law, communicating God's gifts to them. This was faithfully done: it was done by the apostles who handed on, by oral preaching, by their example, by their dispositions, what they themselves had received whether from the lips of Christ, from his way of life and his works, or by coming to know it through the prompting of the Holy Spirit (Constitution on Divine Revelation, 7).

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org

____________________________

A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.

Today's Scripture

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33)

Today's Word People who experience the joy, blessings and favor of the Lord are different in one key area: they put the most important things in life at the top of their list where they belong. If you want to experience God's best in your life, stay focused on Him and on the things that truly matter. The Bible says to first aim at and then strive after God's kingdom and righteousness—which simply means to do things God's way. To reach your full potential and be everything God intends you to be, make sure His priorities are your priorities. Doing this will help you make wise use of your time and help you to experience God's best.

A Prayer for Today.

God, thank You for explaining in Your Word what is really important in life. Help me to get my priorities in life in the right order, and then keep the most important things first. I claim Your power and wisdom today as I seek to make You and Your kingdom the focus of my day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thank you, God bless
With lots of love and prayers

Creator and Redeemer.

May Lord our God, Bless you and all who are affiliated to you and your family.

Today before we think about Papa's love and his might and compassion towards us we shall make a vow towards ourselves, that we shall everyday say a decade of the rosary for all the souls in Purgatory. They are suffering and have no one to turn to for help. Lets at least recollect our fore fathers from both our parents, and commit ourselves to them in prayer.

Isaias Chapter 44

God's favour to his church. The folly of idolatry. The people shall be delivered from captivity.

44:21. Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel, for thou art my servant. I have formed thee, thou art my servant, O Israel, forget me not.
Memento horum Iacob et Israhel quoniam servus meus es tu formavi te servus meus es tu Israhel non oblivisceris mei

44:22. I have blotted out thy iniquities as a cloud, and thy sins as a mist: return to me, for I have redeemed thee.
Delevi ut nubem iniquitates tuas et quasi nebulam peccata tua revertere ad me quoniam redemi te

44:23. Give praise, O ye heavens, for the Lord hath shown mercy: shout with joy, ye ends of the earth: ye mountains, resound with praise, thou, O forest, and every tree therein: for the Lord hath redeemed Jacob, and Israel shall be glorified.
Laudate caeli quoniam fecit Dominus iubilate extrema terrae resonate montes laudationem saltus et omne lignum eius quoniam redemit Dominus Iacob et Israhel gloriabitur

Simply envisage papa saying to us, my children I have saved you and bought you back you are free, but don’t forget me... all mighty God pleading to us after doing all that we ask to him and when we say thanks dad ( some forget to say so) and helping us and keeping us in warmth, says to us, Please don’t forget me.
What love! What love… what can replace his love, how can any poet or thinker find a word to define his love for us.



St. Sharbel Makhlouf *
(1828-1898)

Although this saint never traveled far from the Lebanese village of Beka-Kafra, where he was born, his influence has spread widely.

Joseph Zaroun Maklouf was raised by an uncle because his father, a mule driver, died when Joseph was only three. At the age of 23, Joseph joined the Monastery of St. Maron at Annaya, Lebanon, and took the name Sharbel in honor of a second-century martyr. He professed his final vows in 1853 and was ordained six years later.

Following the example of the fifth-century St. Maron, Sharbel lived as a hermit from 1875 until his death. His reputation for holiness prompted people to seek him to receive a blessing and to be remembered in his prayers. He followed a strict fast and was very devoted to the Blessed Sacrament. When his superiors occasionally asked him to administer the sacraments to nearby villages, Sharbel did so gladly.

He died in the late afternoon on Christmas Eve. Christians and non-Christians soon made his tomb a place of pilgrimage and of cures. Pope Paul VI beatified him in 1965 and canonized him in 1977.


Comment:

Pope John Paul II has often said that the Church has two lungs (East and West) and it must learn to breathe using both of them. Remembering saints like Sharbel helps the Church to appreciate both the diversity and unity present in the Catholic Church. Like all the saints, Sharbel points us to God and invites us to cooperate generously with God's grace, no matter what our situation in life may be. As our prayer life becomes deeper and more honest, we become more ready to make that generous response.

When Sharbel was canonized in 1977, Bishop Francis Zayek, head the U.S. Diocese of St. Maron, wrote a pamphlet entitled. A New Star of the East. Bishop Zayek wrote: St. Sharbel is called the second St. Anthony of the Desert, the Perfume of Lebanon, the first Confessor of the East to be raised to the Altars according to the actual procedure of the Catholic Church, the honor of our Aramaic Antiochian Church, and the model of spiritual values and renewal. Sharbel is like a Cedar of Lebanon standing in eternal prayer, on top of a mountain. The bishop noted that Sharbel's canonization plus other beatification cases prove that the Aramaic Maronite Antiochian Church is indeed a living branch of the Catholic Church and is intimately connected with the trunk, who is Christ, our Savior, the beginning and the end of all things.

Quote:

When Sharbel was canonized in 1977, Bishop Francis Zayek, head the U.S. Diocese of St. Maron, wrote a pamphlet entitled “A New Star of the East.” Bishop Zayek wrote: “St. Sharbel is called the second St. Anthony of the Desert, the Perfume of Lebanon, the first Confessor of the East to be raised to the Altars according to the actual procedure of the Catholic Church, the honor of our Aramaic Antiochian Church, and the model of spiritual values and renewal. Sharbel is like a Cedar of Lebanon standing in eternal prayer, on top of a mountain.”

The bishop noted that Sharbel's canonization plus other beatification cases prove “that the Aramaic Maronite Antiochian Church is indeed a living branch of the Catholic Church and is intimately connected with the trunk, who is Christ, our Savior, the beginning and the end of all things


(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)



*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org




____________________________





A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.


Today's Scripture


"No man has ever seen, heard or even imagined the wonderful things God has in store for those who love the Lord." (I Corinthians 2:9)


Today's Word No matter where you are in life right now, God has much more in store for you. God wants to increase you–He wants to give you more wisdom so you can make better decisions. He wants you to prosper so that you can be a blessing to others. He wants to give you more money so you can be a blessing to others. Don't get stuck in that old rut where you just get up and go to work, come home, go to bed, and then do it all again. That's not all there is to life.

God has new frontiers for you to explore and higher mountains to climb!Proverbs says, "The path of the righteous gets brighter and brighter and brighter." If you're going to start experiencing these new victories, you must do your part and start thinking the way God thinks. Think big! Think expansive! Think increase! Start expecting the unexpected!


A Prayer for Today


God, You created the heavens and the earth and breathed life into the universe—Your plans for me are big! There is nothing I have accomplished that is as great as what you have in store for me. I believe there are great things to come. I believe in You. In Jesus' Name – Amen.


Thank you. God bless.
Lots of love and prayers to all.

This new day, the spirit pleads.

Letter of St.Paul to the Romans ( 8 : 26 - 28)

"In the same way the spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are for we do not know how we ought to pray; the spirit himself pleads with god for us in groans that words cannot express. And God, who sees into our hearts, knows what the thought of the spirit is; because the spirit pleads with god on behalf of the people and in accordance with his will".

It’s a new day, a set of fresh blessings.. !! best wishes for the upcoming week to all dear readers. A friend of mine, Shijo sebastian, had send me a prayer,I met him in an online community, I have posted below the prayer. I must admit it is such a B E A utiful..!! prayer. If you will go deep into the words in the prayer you will literally feel the power of the passion.

PRAYER TO JESUS CRUCIFIED -
Here I am, good and gentle Jesus, kneeling before you. With great fervor I pray and ask you to instill in me genuine convictions of faith, hope and love, with true sorrow for my sins and a firm resolve to amend them. While I contemplate your five wounds with great love and compassion, I remember the words which the prophet David long ago put on your lips: "They have pierced my hands and my feet, I can count all my bones." (Psalm 22/17-18).


I couldnt post yesterdays' 'saint of the day' so am adding that below after todays update.

St. Bridget (1303?-1373)*

From age seven on, Bridget had visions of Christ crucified. Her visions formed the basis for her activity always with the emphasis on charity rather than spiritual favors.
She lived her married life in the court of the Swedish king Magnus II. Mother of eight children (the second eldest was St. Catherine of Sweden), she lived the strict life of a penitent after her husband's death.

Bridget constantly strove to exert her good influence over Magnus; while never fully reforming, he did give her land and buildings to found a monastery for men and women. This group eventually expanded into an Order known as the Bridgetines (still in existence).

In 1350, a year of jubilee, Bridget braved a plague-stricken Europe to make a pilgrimage to Rome. Although she never returned to Sweden, her years in Rome were far from happy, being hounded by debts and by opposition to her work against Church abuses.

A final pilgrimage to the Holy Land, marred by shipwreck and the death of her son, Charles, eventually led to her death in 1373. In 1999, she, Saints Catherine of Siena and Edith Stein were named co-patronesses of Europe.

Comment:

Bridget's visions, rather than isolating her from the affairs of the world, involved her in many contemporary issues, whether they be royal policy or the Avignon papacy. She saw no contradiction between mystical experience and secular activity, and her life is a testimony to the possibility of a holy life in the market place.

Quote:

Despite the hardships of life and wayward children (not all became saints), Margery Kempe of Lynn says Bridget was kind and meek to every creature and she had a laughing face.

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org

_______________________________



A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.




Today's Scripture


"If you live by the Spirit, you'll not fulfill the lusts of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16)

Today's Word Did you know that we make over 2,500 choices everyday? Because of that, choosing to live according to the Spirit is the most important decision you can make. One way God speaks to you is through your spirit, or conscience. The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your decisions.

When you choose to obey God's leading, that "inner prompting," you will always make the right choice!It says in I John 3:21 that a guilty conscience hinders communication with our Heavenly Father. That's why it is so important to stay true to your conscience and quickly repent if you've made a mistake.

Remember, Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has great plans in store for you and when you choose to follow His leading, He'll guide you on a path of victory in every area of life! You really were born to win!


A Prayer for Today

God, When I listen to my inner voice, the one that tells me right from wrong, and make the right choice I know it pleases You. May my choices today honor You and demonstrate my commitment to being Your disciple in this world.
In Jesus' Name – Amen.


_______________________________

July 22nd - St. Mary Magdalene *

Except for the mother of Jesus, few women are more honored in the Bible than Mary Magdalene. Yet she could well be the patron of the slandered, since there has been a persistent legend in the Church that she is the unnamed sinful woman who anointed the feet of Jesus in Luke 7:36-50.

Most Scripture scholars today point out that there is no scriptural basis for confusing the two women. Mary Magdalene, that is, “of Magdala,” was the one from whom Christ cast out “seven demons” (Luke 8:2)—an indication, at the worst, of extreme demonic possession or, possibly, severe illness.

Father W.J. Harrington, O.P., writing in the New Catholic Commentary, says that “seven demons” “does not mean that Mary had lived an immoral life—a conclusion reached only by means of a mistaken identification with the anonymous woman of Luke 7:36.” Father Edward Mally, S.J., writing in the Jerome Biblical Commentary, agrees that she “is not...the same as the sinner of Luke 7:37, despite the later Western romantic tradition about her.”
Mary Magdalene was one of the many “who were assisting them [Jesus and the Twelve] out of their means.” She was one of those who stood by the cross of Jesus with his mother. And, of all the “official” witnesses that might have been chosen for the first awareness of the Resurrection, she was the one to whom that privilege was given.

Comment:

Mary Magdalene has been a victim of mistaken identity for almost 20 centuries. Yet she would no doubt insist that it makes no difference. We are all sinners in need of the saving power of God, whether our sins have been lurid or not. More importantly, we are all, with her, “unofficial” witnesses of the Resurrection.

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)

*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org

_______________________________




Thank you, all dear readers.
God bless, lots of love and prayers.

his children we are, we call him abba - father.

WOW..!! the very thought of being called as the son of God gives me the strength to live this life.

St.Mathew
5:8. Blessed are the clean of heart: they shall see God.
Beati mundo corde quoniam ipsi Deum videbunt
5:9. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called
the children of God.
Beati pacifici quoniam filii Dei vocabuntur
5:10. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Beati qui persecutionem patiuntur propter iustitiam quoniam ipsorum est regnum caelorum

Sometimes, am so madly in love with Papa and all our family, but then am working towards unleashing myself to the farthest extent possible to Pa. We all need to stand firm in this battlefield in which jesus has already won the fight. Then we all shall be in a stage to see things in a much more elevated position and say I love you always Papa, the world is far down there, away from me. I am not able to fully pen in this post the feelings that I go through while contemplating on the same. I used to write down the verses from the bible. Sometimes I have felt like the spirit guiding me through the pages, and give me those words that will fill me with wisdom and which will fuel my life to achieve its best. At times the word have been indeed a real double edged sword.


St.Pauls letter to the Romans

8:13. For if you live according to the flesh, you shall die: but if by the Spirit you mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live.
Si enim secundum carnem vixeritis moriemini si autem Spiritu facta carnis mortificatis vivetis
8:14. For whosoever are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
Quicumque enim Spiritu Dei aguntur hii filii sunt Dei
8:15. For you have not received the spirit of bondage again in fear: but you have received the spirit of adoption of sons, whereby we cry: Abba (Father).
Non enim accepistis spiritum servitutis iterum in timore sed accepistis Spiritum adoptionis filiorum in quo clamamus Abba Pater
8:16. For the Spirit himself giveth testimony to our spirit that we are the sons of God.*
Ipse Spiritus testimonium reddit spiritui nostro quod sumus filii Dei
8:17. And if sons, heirs also; heirs indeed of God and joint heirs with Christ: yet so, if we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified with him.
Si autem filii et heredes heredes quidem Dei coheredes autem Christi si tamen conpatimur ut et conglorificemur

"And if sons, heirs also; heirs indeed of God and joint heirs with Christ" - that was where my
joy was put to test. " if and only if you are called to be his sons shall you enjoy all the benefits"
But then the light that gives hope to our life was the verse before that, the spirit will plea for us, will give us the light and say to papa that we are his children.


____________________________________

St. Apollinaris *
(1st century)

According to tradition, St. Peter sent Apollinaris to Ravenna, Italy, as its first bishop. His preaching of the Good News was so successful that the pagans there beat him and drove him from the city. He returned, however, and was exiled a second time. After preaching in the area surrounding Ravenna, he entered the city again. After being cruelly tortured, he was put on a ship heading to Greece. Pagans there caused him to be expelled to Italy, where he went to Ravenna for a fourth time. He died from wounds received during a savage beating at Classis, a suburb of Ravenna. A beautiful basilica honoring him was built there in the sixth century.

Comment:

Following Jesus involves risks sometimes the supreme risk of life itself. Martyrs are people who would rather accept the risk of death than deny the cornerstone of their whole life: faith in Jesus Christ. Everyone will die eventually the persecutors and those persecuted. The question is what kind of a conscience people will bring before the Lord for judgment. Remembering the witness of past and present martyrs can help us make the often-small sacrifices that following Jesus today may require.

Quote:

During his remarks prior to the Regina Caeli on May 7, 2000, Pope John Paul II noted that later that day at Rome's Colosseum he would participate in an ecumenical service honoring 20th-century martyrs. He said, it is the same paschal light that shines in them. Indeed, it is from Christ's resurrection that the disciples receive the strength to follow the Master in their hour of trial. What the pope said of those martyrs is true of all martyrs for Christ, including today's saint.

(This entry appears in the print edition of Saint of the Day.)


*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org
____________________________

A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.


Today's Scripture

"So reach out and welcome one another to God's glory. Jesus did it; now you do it!" (Romans 15:7)

Today's Word You can get along with anyone you want to get along with! It's possible to live peacefully because every person in your life right now was put there by God for a reason. Many times that person has strengths that can support your weaknesses. Learn to work together with people that are different than you so that you can fulfill God's greater purposes. Make it a point to study and get to know the people around you. Find out what makes them happy or sad, find some common ground to stand on, and work at getting along. Do your best to live peacefully with everyone that God has put in your life.

A Prayer for Today

God, thank you for blessing me with wonderful people who can strengthen me and sharpen me, as I try to do the same for them. I will seek to live peacefully with everyone around me, because that is what You have called me to do. Thank you for giving me the perfect example of how I can live this life with others. In Jesus' name. Amen.




Thank you, God bless.
With lots of love and prayers.

today, everyday..

I was wondering what to share, when the thought came to me of saints and angels and favorites of God in our family, I love them so much.

I know not how many give the needed thoughtfulness to our family and to those who are most close to papa. I personally have felt many a time that, a miracle happening right in front of us, one of the most powerful and loving way Pa has given Jesus to us and next to the Altar along with Mama Mary they are all present during the consecration.

Each day I used to get mails from a community of Franciscans – The saint of the day. It used to give me a brief detail of all those who have passed away completing their race, accomplishing as much possible by them.

Sufferings are always well rewarded.

Servant of God Francis Garces and Companions*
(c. 1781)

Government interference in the missions and landgrabbing sparked the Indian uprising which cost these friars their lives.

A contemporary of the American Revolution and of Blessed Junipero Serra, Francisco Garcés was born in 1738 in Spain, where he joined the Franciscans. After ordination in 1763, he was sent to Mexico. Five years later he was assigned to San Xavier del Bac near Tucson, one of several missions the Jesuits had founded in Arizona and New Mexico before being expelled in 1767 from all territories controlled by the Catholic king of Spain. In Arizona, Francisco worked among the Papago, Yuma, Pima and Apache Native Americans. His missionary travels took him to the Grand Canyon and to California.

Friar Francisco Palou, a contemporary, writes that Father Garcés was greatly loved by the indigenous peoples, among whom he lived unharmed for a long time. They regularly gave him food and referred to him as "Viva Jesus," which was the greeting he taught them to use.
For the sake of their indigenous converts, the Spanish missionaries wanted to organize settlements away from the Spanish soldiers and colonists. But the commandant in Mexico insisted that two new missions on the Colorado River, Misión San Pedro y San Pablo and Misión La Purísima Concepción, be mixed settlements.

A revolt among the Yumas against the Spanish left Friars Juan Diaz and Matias Moreno dead at Misión San Pedro y San Pablo. Friars Francisco Garcés and Juan Barreneche were killed at Misión La Purísima Concepción (the site of Fort Yuma).

Comment:

In the 18th century the indigenous peoples of the American Southwest saw Catholicism and Spanish rule as a package deal. When they wanted to throw off the latter, the new religion had to go also. Do we appreciate sufficiently the acceptable adjustment our faith can make among various peoples? Are we offended by the customs of Catholics in other cultures? Do we see our good example as a contribution to missionary evangelization?

Quote:

On a visit to Africa in 1969, Pope Paul VI told 22 young Ugandan converts that "being a Christian is a fine thing but not always an easy one."

(This entry appears in the print edition of Day by Day With Followers of Francis and Clare.)


*the above mentioned are added to this post from the mails recieved from - "AmericanCatholic. org" goodnews@americancatholic.org
_______________________________________

A good friend of mine, shreedhar (http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=4285683754807292048), used to pen me daily with the word of god for that day, at times from the reading of that day or otherwise. And what I used to like so much is the prayer and thought that he is used to add. With his permission I have added it below, so will do everyday possible.

Today's Scripture

"Where there is strife, there is confusion and every kind of evil." (James 3:16)

Today's Word Strife is a powerfully destructive force that the enemy uses to try to bring confusion and turmoil into our lives. Marriages are torn apart, businesses are destroyed, and lifelong friends are divided by strife. Satan will make sure that you have plenty of opportunity each day to get upset with those whom you care about the most. Things often happen on a daily basis that can aggravate you and make you want to be rude or angry toward your family and those around you.

We encourage you to make peace a priority in your life. Don't give the enemy a foothold. If you will do your part and honor God by being a maker and maintainer of peace, God will honor you. He will fight your battles for you. He will pour out His blessings in your life and you will live the overcoming life of victory that He has in store just for you.

A Prayer for Today -

God, I choose to pursue peace. I refuse to argue, to be sarcastic or disrespectful. I am going to keep peace in my home and my life, even if it means I have to swallow my pride. As a peacemaker, I realize that sometimes I have to release my "right to be right." In Jesus' Name – Amen.
____________________________________



Thank you, God bless.
With lots of love and prayers.

Concisely..

I had to take a break before I post this blog.
Many a time had I been given this verse from Ezekiel 20 : 45 - 48

20:45. And the word of the Lord came to me, saying:
(Et factus est sermo Domini ad me dicens )

20:46. Son of man, set thy face against the way of the south, and drop towards the south, and prophesy against the forest of the south field.
( Fili hominis pone faciem tuam contra viam austri et stilla ad africum et propheta ad saltum agri meridiani )

20:47. And say to the south forest: Hear the word of the Lord: Thus saith the Lord God: Behold I will kindle a fire in thee, and will burn in thee every green tree, and every dry tree: the flame of the fire shall not be quenched: and every face shall be burned in it, from the south even to the north.
(Et dices saltui meridiano audi verbum Domini haec dicit Dominus Deus ecce ego succendam in te ignem et conburam in te omne lignum viride et omne lignum aridum non extinguetur flamma succensionis et conburetur in ea omnis facies ab austro usque ad aquilonem )

20:48. And all flesh shall see, that I the Lord have kindled it, and it shall not be quenched.
(Et videbit universa caro quia ego Dominus succendi eam nec extinguetur ).

I have not been able to realize the dept and the inner meaning of this word, Papa gave.
But further when I read the guidelines to it - Of the south... Jerusalem lay towards the south of Babylon, (where the prophet then was), and is here called the forest of the south field, and is threatened with utter desolation.
Still not content with what was given regarding the time when Prophet Ezekiel was living, what has it got to do with me, why where those words pointing to me?

Instead of reading further, something made me go back a few lines to check the background of the happening. I read - Pa was allowing his children to be in same sinful state as their forefathers were. But then he is saying something else after that, Pa says “I will make you obey, I will hold you tight and make you do things I want you to do”. I love our father.

Thank you. God bless, lots of love and prayers.

The Testimony of Catalina.

abit
It is quiet evident that this world has become so less close to god, in one way and have been blessed the most, when compared to our forefathers.

Many youths in our community come for the service everyday, some on Sunday alone and I used to feel that there are souls who are thirsty to attend the most miraculous feast.

I recently read the testimony of Catalina, and I plea, do read it and envision the truth that is happening there. Before which I must confess to you my dear brothers and sisters ... I was really late to know.

Our sweet Lord waited almost 24 years by my side, that I get to know how much he loved me, cared for me and protected me and guided me with his mightly hands. Right from my cradle till this moment that I post this thought and experince to you.

I have been in his glorious presence right from my childhood, since my father and mother have scolded me for being late to church, but not, always, for being late to school. And that stringent way of living has given me the stepping stone. I do not know how privileged you are or otherwise, but then i plea again, do not close this window unless you have alteast gone through the testimonial in the link below. May good lord our God Bless you and your family abundantly.

I initally wanted to furnish the whole detailed testimonial here in this blog, but then I was not sure of the legalities of the same.

www.greatcrusade.org/greatcrusade/Mass/Holy_Mass-Web.htm

Thank you, love and prayers to all.

A confession

I have been prompted to pen my thoughts many a time. Never had it crossed my mind that such inspirations by our sweet Papa in heaven will give me more insights and prespectives. Pa gave me the word through habukkuk ( habucuc) 2:2 . hope my thoughts and notions posted are read and commented with a good perspective.

thankyou, god bless -
with lots of love and prayers to all.