7 April 2013 - Divine Mercy Sunday
It has been a full couple of weeks, here is the tip of the iceberg for you:
1 - Pope Francis
It struck me that this "Year of Faith" has been divided for us. The first half of the year was with Pope Benedict XVI, a master teacher and believer who turned our attention to the heart of faith. He taught us that fides quarens intellectum (Faith seeks understanding), with clarity and confidence. This second half of the year is with Pope Francis, who is showing us how to live the faith in our concrete daily lives. He's leading us down the path of conversion with courage. If we follow it will be challenging, but man will it be rewarding. Simplicity and convinced living of the Catholic Faith is his message. Particularly striking to me was his homily at the Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday where he spoke to the heart of the priesthood and his Easter Vigil homily telling of our fear of being surprised by God. Today, St. Peter's Square was full to the brim with pilgrims come to pray the Regina Caeli with him. Its a precious time to be here in Rome.
2 - Archbishop Sample
On Easter Tuesday, 2 April 2013, Portland's new Archbishop was installed. We have a new shepherd. Although I didn't get to be there I joined in praying by offering Mass for Archbishop Sample and reading his installation homily. His coat of arms description is also very telling to read as he seeks to lead us to vultum Christi contemplari (contemplate the face of Christ). After being blessed to be trained to be a priest by Archbishop Vlazny and benefiting from his fatherly care as a seminarian for the last 9 years, Archbishop Sample will be the one to shape and direct my first years of priesthood. I look forward to meeting him when he receives the Pallium here in Rome on 29 June. I am excited to learn from him and follow him in contemplating the face of Christ!
3 - Retreat and Pilgrimage
During Holy Week I was in Lourdes, France on retreat, probably the only retreat I'll ever get to take during Holy Week. Fr. Michael Monshau OP directed me and I went with Dale Tuckerman to my favorite place to go, hidden close to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as we relived His Passion. I felt like one of the Apostles, so close to the holiest of mysteries and yet not fully understanding what I was experiencing. Here, I concelebrated my first Masses in French and Latin in the sanctuary of Lourdes. On Easter Monday we left Lourdes and retreat, making our way on pilgrimage to Ars, Paray le Monial, and Annecy. There I got to celebrate Mass at the tomb of St. John Vianney twice and beg his intercession for my priesthood, that I too would be a faithful priest and holy confessor, ardent believer and solicitous teacher of faith. This whole time I was struck by a deeper need for penance in my life, greater simplicity. Paray le Monial is where the devotion to the Sacred Heart began and we celebrated Mass at the tomb of St. Margaret Mary (Fr. Monsahu's special patron) and the next day at the tomb of St. Francis de Sales (Dale's confirmation Saint). What a gift do be near the Sacred Heart for so long. I prayed each day for you at the grotto of Lourdes and especially for all priests, particularly those I know and who influence me, at Ars. I was also able to finish reading Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh and Band of Brothers by Steven Ambrose.
4 - The next run
Now its time to run through the finish line. My days in Rome are numbered (less than 3 months) and we head towards the home stretch. This week we have our annual Rector's Dinner which is busy for us as we host many gracious benefactors who help make our time here possible. I will also meet with my thesis director and prepare my final draft to turn in, Saint Thomas More and Fatherhood. There is also a seminar paper to write on genetics, classes to resume, and course reading to dive into before finishing at the end of May. I have gotten to assist as a chaplain to the University of St. Mary's college students, the Missionaries of Charity, and the US Navy Base in Naples this year and so I will have to say my goodbyes there. Exams begin in June, then a lectio coram exam where I teach my professors on a topic they choose and also defend my thesis. I will be studying and packing up so that I can come home and begin my new assignment, wherever Archbishop Sample sees fit to place me. I'll be blessed to have some guests coming to visit over the next couple of months, including my sister Kate, which will be a great boon to me, as well as getting to be here for the Pallium Mass for Archbishop Sample. Please pray for me and I will for you, as I look forward to fulfilling what Archbishop Vlazny told me to do 6 years ago when he sent me here: "to be a good pastor for the people in the Archdiocese of Portland".
The Resurrection is real; He is present to us now right when we needed Him most. Do not be afraid!
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Pope's Inaugural Mass
19 Joseph 2013 - Feast of St. Joseph
Up at 4:30am, prayer, breakfast. 7:15am leave for St. Peter's Square - Pope Francis' Inaugural Mass today and we get to be distributors for Communion. With Willy Wonka's Golden Ticket in our hand we breeze past security, get vested and set to go. They lead us to our places, I'm in the second row, right next to the ambo - best seats I've ever gotten. Pope Francis received the Pallium - the yoke of Christ that is easy and light made of lambs wool that was resting next to the bones of Peter, and the Fishermans' Ring - the sign of his call to cast out into the deep for a catch. One of my classmates had the job of bringing the Pope his ring.
Got to pray with Pope Francis and assist him in feeding Christ's sheep, with His Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity. What a gift. They anticipated 1 million people came today, the acutal number I don't know, but I always love praying with the Pope. He preached on being good guardians, protectors of those around us. Here is a snipit of his homily, always focusing on deeper conversion, Faith put into concrete, practical action
His blessing goes to each one of you as I called your intentions and you to mind as Pope Francis imparted his apostolic blessing. Please pray for me on retreat, see you after Easter. To keep up on what Pope Francis says in the next few weeks I encourage you to compare the reports in the papers and sites to news.va, which has the original texts/translations.
Up at 4:30am, prayer, breakfast. 7:15am leave for St. Peter's Square - Pope Francis' Inaugural Mass today and we get to be distributors for Communion. With Willy Wonka's Golden Ticket in our hand we breeze past security, get vested and set to go. They lead us to our places, I'm in the second row, right next to the ambo - best seats I've ever gotten. Pope Francis received the Pallium - the yoke of Christ that is easy and light made of lambs wool that was resting next to the bones of Peter, and the Fishermans' Ring - the sign of his call to cast out into the deep for a catch. One of my classmates had the job of bringing the Pope his ring.
Got to pray with Pope Francis and assist him in feeding Christ's sheep, with His Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity. What a gift. They anticipated 1 million people came today, the acutal number I don't know, but I always love praying with the Pope. He preached on being good guardians, protectors of those around us. Here is a snipit of his homily, always focusing on deeper conversion, Faith put into concrete, practical action
“How does Joseph exercise his role as protector? Discreetly, humbly, and silently, but with an unfailing presence and utter fidelity, even when he finds it hard to understand. From the time of his betrothal to Mary until the finding of the twelve-year-old Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem, he is there at every moment with loving care. As the spouse of Mary, he is at her side in good times and bad, on the journey to Bethlehem for the census and in the anxious and joyful hours when she gave birth; amid the drama of the flight into Egypt and during the frantic search for their child in the Temple; and later in the day-to-day life of the home of Nazareth, in the workshop where he taught his trade to Jesus.”“How does Joseph respond to his calling to be the protector of Mary, Jesus and the Church? By being constantly attentive to God, open to the signs of God’s presence and receptive to God’s plans and not simply to his own. This is what God asked of David, as we heard in the first reading. God does not want a house built by humans, but faithfulness to his word, to his plan. It is God himself who builds the house, but from living stones sealed by his Spirit. Joseph is a “protector” because he is able to hear God’s voice and be guided by his will; and for this reason he is all the more sensitive to the persons entrusted to his safekeeping. He can look at things realistically, he is in touch with his surroundings, he can make truly wise decisions. In him, dear friends, we learn how to respond to God’s call, readily and willingly, but we also see the heart of the Christian vocation, which is Christ! Let us protect Christ in our lives, so that we can protect others, so that we can protect creation!”“The vocation of being a 'protector', however, is not just something involving us Christians alone; it also has a prior dimension which is simply human, involving everyone. It means protecting all creation, the beauty of the created world, as the Book of Genesis tells us and as Saint Francis of Assisi showed us. It means respecting each of God’s creatures and respecting the environment in which we live. It means protecting people, showing loving concern for each and every person, especially children, the elderly, those in need, who are often the last we think about. It means caring for one another in our families: husbands and wives first protect one another, and then, as parents, they care for their children, and children themselves, in time, protect their parents. It means building sincere friendships in which we protect one another in trust, respect, and goodness. In the end, everything has been entrusted to our protection, and all of us are responsible for it. Be protectors of God’s gifts!”“Whenever human beings fail to live up to this responsibility, whenever we fail to care for creation and for our brothers and sisters, the way is opened to destruction and our hearts are hardened. Tragically, in every period of history there are 'Herods' who plot death, wreak havoc, and mar the countenance of men and women.”“Please, I would like to ask all those who have positions of responsibility in economic, political, and social life, and all men and women of goodwill: let us be 'protectors' of creation, protectors of God’s plan inscribed in nature, protectors of one another and of the environment. Let us not allow omens of destruction and death to accompany our world's journey! But to be 'protectors', we also have to keep watch over ourselves! Let us not forget that hatred, envy, and pride defile our lives! Being protectors, then, also means keeping watch over our emotions, over our hearts, because they are the seat of good and evil intentions: intentions that build up or tear down! We must not be afraid of goodness or even tenderness!”
His blessing goes to each one of you as I called your intentions and you to mind as Pope Francis imparted his apostolic blessing. Please pray for me on retreat, see you after Easter. To keep up on what Pope Francis says in the next few weeks I encourage you to compare the reports in the papers and sites to news.va, which has the original texts/translations.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
First Angelus
17 March 2013
Cardinal George celebrated Mass for us today at the college - man, what a great priest, leader, and preacher! My favorite line from his homily was "They got all the facts right, but the story was all wrong". He spoke about the conclave and what was actually most important vs what was reported as important. Freedom to act was the key.
After brunch we all headed down to St. Peter's square to hear Pope Francis' first Angelus message. It took a half hour just to get into the square, glad I left early! We were jammed so tight together I couldn't even lift my arms - I'm not a fan of being pressed up against everyone around me from every side. Finally we squirted out into the square where there was more space...for a while. There were crowds of people pouring down every street and they closed the square it was so full. Pope Francis came to the window and the crowds exploded. He greeted us just like he did the night of his election: a very formal "Dear Brothers and Sisters" followed by an informal and joyfully "Good Morning!" We all laughed. He spoke mostly without a text and only in italian, but 3 times he repeated the message he didn't want us to forget: "We grow tired of asking God for forgiveness, but He never gets tired of forgiving us!" His mercy is so great. Its worth reading in full.
Cardinal George was right, freedom is key. Thanks be to God Pope Francis is showing every sign that he is free to act as Pope, free to follow the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, free to lead each of us away from sin and towards Christ. As much as I dislike the craziness of crowds, coming and listening, learning and praying, and receiving Pope Francis' blessing was definitely worth it.
I will try and post at least once more this week, but I probably won't post much for a while - I leave on friday for my canonical retreat for the 2013 year in Lourdes and Ars. Please pray for me. If you would like me to keep you in my prayers in a particular way, please send me a note to let me know so I can write it down in my journal. May you be free today to not be tired of going to God for what you need from Him most!
Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae...
Cardinal George celebrated Mass for us today at the college - man, what a great priest, leader, and preacher! My favorite line from his homily was "They got all the facts right, but the story was all wrong". He spoke about the conclave and what was actually most important vs what was reported as important. Freedom to act was the key.
After brunch we all headed down to St. Peter's square to hear Pope Francis' first Angelus message. It took a half hour just to get into the square, glad I left early! We were jammed so tight together I couldn't even lift my arms - I'm not a fan of being pressed up against everyone around me from every side. Finally we squirted out into the square where there was more space...for a while. There were crowds of people pouring down every street and they closed the square it was so full. Pope Francis came to the window and the crowds exploded. He greeted us just like he did the night of his election: a very formal "Dear Brothers and Sisters" followed by an informal and joyfully "Good Morning!" We all laughed. He spoke mostly without a text and only in italian, but 3 times he repeated the message he didn't want us to forget: "We grow tired of asking God for forgiveness, but He never gets tired of forgiving us!" His mercy is so great. Its worth reading in full.
Cardinal George was right, freedom is key. Thanks be to God Pope Francis is showing every sign that he is free to act as Pope, free to follow the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, free to lead each of us away from sin and towards Christ. As much as I dislike the craziness of crowds, coming and listening, learning and praying, and receiving Pope Francis' blessing was definitely worth it.
I will try and post at least once more this week, but I probably won't post much for a while - I leave on friday for my canonical retreat for the 2013 year in Lourdes and Ars. Please pray for me. If you would like me to keep you in my prayers in a particular way, please send me a note to let me know so I can write it down in my journal. May you be free today to not be tired of going to God for what you need from Him most!
Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae...
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Pope Francis and the Media
16 March 2013
Today I finished the rough draft of my thesis - thank you Jesus!
Pope Francis had some interesting and insightful comments in his meeting with the press today:
Today I finished the rough draft of my thesis - thank you Jesus!
Pope Francis had some interesting and insightful comments in his meeting with the press today:
“The role of the mass media has been continuously growing in recent times,” he said, “so much so that it has become essential to narrate the events of contemporary history to the world. I therefore especially thank you for your distinguished service these past few days—you have had a bit of work to do, haven't you?—when the eyes of the Catholic world, and not only, were turned toward the Eternal City, in particular to this area that has St. Peter's tomb as its focal point. In these past few weeks you've gotten a chance to talk about the Holy See, the Church, her rites and traditions, her faith, and, in particular, the role of the Pope and his ministry.”
“A particularly heart-felt thanks goes to those who have been able to observe and present these events in the Church's history while keeping in mind the most just perspective in which they must be read, that of faith. Historical events almost always require a complex reading that, at times, can also include the dimension of faith. Ecclesial events are certainly not more complicated than political or economic ones. But they have one particularly fundamental characteristic: they answer to a logic that is not mainly that of, so to speak, worldly categories, and this is precisely why it is not easy to interpret and communicate them to a wide and varied audience. In fact, the Church, although it is certainly also a human, historical institution with all that that entails, does not have a political nature but is essentially spiritual: it is the people of God, the holy people of God who walk toward the encounter with Jesus Christ. Only by putting oneself in this perspective can one fully explain how the Catholic Church works.”
Friday, March 15, 2013
The ides of March
15 March 2013
We have a potent new Pope. I've been reading is homilies and talks every day so far. They are good. You can find everything on www.vatican.va. Here is a brief word from Pope Francis today:
His inaugural Mass will be on Tuesday, Feast of St. Joseph spouse of Mary. It looks like I'm going to get to be one of the priests who will distribute Communion for Pope Francis for his first public Mass as Pope. God never ceases to bless.
We have a potent new Pope. I've been reading is homilies and talks every day so far. They are good. You can find everything on www.vatican.va. Here is a brief word from Pope Francis today:
“Courage, dear brothers! Probably half of us are in our old age. Old age, they say, is the seat of wisdom. The old ones have the wisdom that they have earned from walking through life. Like old Simeon and Anna at the temple whose wisdom allowed them to recognize Jesus. Let us give with wisdom to the youth: like good wine that improves with age, let us give the youth the wisdom of our lives.”
His inaugural Mass will be on Tuesday, Feast of St. Joseph spouse of Mary. It looks like I'm going to get to be one of the priests who will distribute Communion for Pope Francis for his first public Mass as Pope. God never ceases to bless.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Pope Francis' First Words
14 March 2013
We've prepped ourselves with silence, now is a good time to listen. Enjoy, they are rich!
Pope Francis on the night of his election:
Pope Francis' first homily:
In his first homily as Pope, and speaking in Italian without a text, Francis noted that the three readings have something in common: “Movement. In the first reading the movement is the journey; in the second the movement is the building of the Church; in the Gospel the movement is in the witness. To walk, to build, to witness.”
We've prepped ourselves with silence, now is a good time to listen. Enjoy, they are rich!
Pope Francis on the night of his election:
First “Urbi et Orbi” Blessing of the New Holy Father Francis
At 8:24pm, the Holy Father Francis, preceded by the Cross, appeared at the Loggia of the brightly lit Vatican Basilica. Before imparting the “Urbi et Orbi” (“to the city and the world) apostolic blessing he greeted the enormous crowd that had been gathering all afternoon in cold and rainy St. Peter's Square saying:
“Dear brothers and sisters,
Good evening. You know that the duty of the Conclave was to give Rome a bishop. It seems that my brother cardinals picked him from almost the ends of the earth. But here we are! I thank you for the warm welcome. The diocesan community of Rome has its bishop. Thank you! First and foremost I would like to say a prayer for our Bishop Emeritus Benedict XVI. Let us pray together for him, that the Lord bless him and the Virgin keep him.”
After leading the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Gloria, Pope Francis again addressed the crowd saying:
“And now let us begin this journey, bishop and people, this journey of the Church of Rome, which is the one that leads all the churches in charity. A journey of fraternity, of trust between us. Let us always pray for one another. Let us pray for the world so that this might be a great brotherhood. I hope that this journey of the Church that we begin today, and in which my Cardinal Vicar here present will assist me, will be fruitful for the evangelization of this beautiful city.”
“Now I would like to impart the blessing, but first, first I ask a favor of you. Before the bishop blesses the people, I ask that you pray to the Lord that He bless me: the prayer of the people asking a blessing for their bishop. Let us pray in silence, this your prayer for me.”
“Now I will impart the blessing to you and all the world, to all men and women of good will.”
After imparting the apostolic blessing Pope Francis added: “Brothers and sisters, I take my leave. Thank you for your warm welcome. Tomorrow I'm going to pray to the Virgin, that she will safeguard all of Rome. Good night and rest well.”
Pope Francis' first homily:
In his first homily as Pope, and speaking in Italian without a text, Francis noted that the three readings have something in common: “Movement. In the first reading the movement is the journey; in the second the movement is the building of the Church; in the Gospel the movement is in the witness. To walk, to build, to witness.”
The pontiff recalled that the first thing God said to Abraham was: “'Walk in my presence and be blameless.' Our life is a path. When we stop walking there is something that isn't right. To walk always in the presence of the Lord, in the light of the Lord, seeking to live the blamelessness that God asks of Abraham in His promise.”
“To build,” he continued, “to construct the Church. This means stones. Stones are solid but these are living stones, stones that are anointed by the Holy Spirit. To build the Church, the Bride of Christ, on the cornerstone that is the Lord himself.”
“To witness … We can walk when we want to, we can build many things, but if we do not witness to Jesus Christ then it doesn't matter. We might become a philanthropic NGO but we wouldn't be the Church, the Bride of the Lord. When we don't go forward we stop...we go backwards. When we don't build on rock, what happens? The same thing that happens to children when they build sandcastles at the beach. They wind up falling down because they have no solidity.” Then, citing Leon Bloy, the Holy Father affirmed: “Whoever does not pray to God, prays to the devil” because “when we don't witness to Jesus Christ, we witness to the worldliness of the devil.”
“To walk, to build, to witness. But this is not so easy because when we walk, when we build, when we witness, at times there are upsets, there are movements that aren't proper to the journey. They are movements that pull us back.”
“In the Gospel,” the Pope continued, “even Peter who confessed Jesus as Christ, says to Him: 'You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. I will follow you but let's not talk about the Cross. That doesn't have anything to do with it. … I'll follow you, without the Cross.” But, “when we walk without the Cross, when we build without the Cross, when we profess a Christ without the Cross … we aren't disciples of the Lord. We are worldly, we are bishops, priests, cardinals, popes, but not disciples of the Lord.”
“And I wish that all of us, after these grace-filled days, might have the courage, yes, the courage to walk in the Lord's presence with the Cross of the Lord, to build the Church on the blood of the Lord that is poured out on the Cross and to witness to the sole glory: to the crucified Christ. And thus the Church will move forward.”
“I wish for us all that the Holy Spirit, through the intercession of Mary, our Mother, grant us this grace: to walk, to build, and to witness to Jesus Christ.”
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Habemus Papam!
13 March 2013
You know the news and all the info is out there, here's your take from the ground floor...
By 6:40pm I was in a packed St. Peter's square with Jack Schraeder from MA. Last night I talked while we waited for smoke, tonight I felt impelled to pray so I prayed the Liturgy of the Hours as I am wont to do. Praying the prayer of the Church in St. Peters square as the cardinals were voting was striking to me. I finished praying at 7:02pm. I had no feeling in my gut of what tonight might hold. 7:05pm Smoke popped: white. Bells. Habemus Papam! (we have a Pope!)
The crowed rushed forward. Fr. Jacob Strand, Dan Westerman, Jack and I found ourselves together 20 yards from the front, just to the side of center when the rush slowed. So many people, so many hugs and yelling habemus Papam, complete strangers were now close friends. 1 Peter 1:8 flood my mind: "Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy." We had not yet seen the Pope, but we had one, and we loved him.
It was cool and sprinkling, dark with bright lights everywhere. The crowd overflowed the square and down via conciliazione. Everyone was joyful, electric Mostly young people filled the square. 80% of the people I saw tonight looked to be younger than 40. We did not expect anything to happen tonight, here we were, it was epic. 8:15pm, the designated Cardinal announced the quote above, then went back in. The crowd was stunned. A fem minutes later out walked His Holiness Pope Francis. He stood. We cheered: "viva il papa", "Fran-ces-co, Fran-ces-co". He remained silent and so did we. When he spoke his humility stirred us: "we must lead the way in charity...let us first pray for Benedict XVI...before I give you my blessing, I ask you to give me yours..." As he bowed low to receive our blessing the crowd was silent. It was an extremely powerful moment. My heart was moved as I offered my poor prayers for him. He then humbly stood and gave us his blessing and indulgence. Wow.
Our jaws were dropped most of the night. Fr. Jacob, Dan, and I prayed a Memorare for the Pope. We went back to the college just in time to start our community offering for the new Pope: Adoration. The first thing Pope Francis asked of us was to pray for him, so we offered our best prayers. The Blessed Sacrament was exposed to O Salutaris hostia. The Gospel "You are Peter..." was proclaimed. Voices were vigorous and full as we prayed together the Church's great hymn of praise: the Te Deum. The lyrics to O God beyond all praising were my prayer. After a while of silent prayer we chanted Tantum Ergo and Msgr. Checchio gave us benediction.
Pope Francis - whether from that humble, poor man who God called to "build My Church" or from that great missionary who taught and baptized millions in the Faith - is leading us in the New Evangelization. Habemus Papam.
Wow.
Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum;
habemus Papam:
habemus Papam:
Eminentissimum ac Reverendissimum Dominum,
Dominum Georgium Marium
Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem Bergoglio
qui sibi nomen imposuit Franciscum
Dominum Georgium Marium
Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem Bergoglio
qui sibi nomen imposuit Franciscum
By 6:40pm I was in a packed St. Peter's square with Jack Schraeder from MA. Last night I talked while we waited for smoke, tonight I felt impelled to pray so I prayed the Liturgy of the Hours as I am wont to do. Praying the prayer of the Church in St. Peters square as the cardinals were voting was striking to me. I finished praying at 7:02pm. I had no feeling in my gut of what tonight might hold. 7:05pm Smoke popped: white. Bells. Habemus Papam! (we have a Pope!)
The crowed rushed forward. Fr. Jacob Strand, Dan Westerman, Jack and I found ourselves together 20 yards from the front, just to the side of center when the rush slowed. So many people, so many hugs and yelling habemus Papam, complete strangers were now close friends. 1 Peter 1:8 flood my mind: "Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy." We had not yet seen the Pope, but we had one, and we loved him.
It was cool and sprinkling, dark with bright lights everywhere. The crowd overflowed the square and down via conciliazione. Everyone was joyful, electric Mostly young people filled the square. 80% of the people I saw tonight looked to be younger than 40. We did not expect anything to happen tonight, here we were, it was epic. 8:15pm, the designated Cardinal announced the quote above, then went back in. The crowd was stunned. A fem minutes later out walked His Holiness Pope Francis. He stood. We cheered: "viva il papa", "Fran-ces-co, Fran-ces-co". He remained silent and so did we. When he spoke his humility stirred us: "we must lead the way in charity...let us first pray for Benedict XVI...before I give you my blessing, I ask you to give me yours..." As he bowed low to receive our blessing the crowd was silent. It was an extremely powerful moment. My heart was moved as I offered my poor prayers for him. He then humbly stood and gave us his blessing and indulgence. Wow.
Our jaws were dropped most of the night. Fr. Jacob, Dan, and I prayed a Memorare for the Pope. We went back to the college just in time to start our community offering for the new Pope: Adoration. The first thing Pope Francis asked of us was to pray for him, so we offered our best prayers. The Blessed Sacrament was exposed to O Salutaris hostia. The Gospel "You are Peter..." was proclaimed. Voices were vigorous and full as we prayed together the Church's great hymn of praise: the Te Deum. The lyrics to O God beyond all praising were my prayer. After a while of silent prayer we chanted Tantum Ergo and Msgr. Checchio gave us benediction.
Pope Francis - whether from that humble, poor man who God called to "build My Church" or from that great missionary who taught and baptized millions in the Faith - is leading us in the New Evangelization. Habemus Papam.
Wow.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
playing a part
12 March 2013
The conclave began today. At 7:20am we all lined up along the road for the ultimate "clap out". The tradition here at the NAC is that when your class arrives as New Men, everyone who is hear "claps you in" as you walk up the stairs into the chapel for the first time. Then, about 5 years later when you have finished and are leaving the college for the last time the bells go off and everyone lines up along the steps to "clap you out". Its a chance to say good bye, a time to remember that this guy, my friend, is now a priest and he is being sent out to labor in the Lord's vineyard. Its a whole new phase of life.
Today we did the same for the American Cardinals. They got into the van that would take them to the Vatican. All of us were there, we were all clapping. As the Cardinals passed and thanked us with waves and smiles we really felt that we all had a stake in this. Our prayers our support mattered as these men go to elect the next Pope. They are going into conclave for a major labor, it was a time to be in solidarity with them. There is a strong sense of optimism, Hope, fraternity.
Our whole college schedule is changed. Every day all of us who wish (which is nearly everybody) will go down to the square at noon and 7pm to watch for smoke. Tonight we prayed evening prayer then waited in the square. There were so many people, mostly younger. The atmosphere was vibrant. No one expected there to be a Pope tonight, but we were all there and it was great in the cool, dark, and at times sprinkling weather. After an hour of waiting black smoke poured from the chimney.
Day one is over. The Cardinals will rest and pray, and we will pray too - we all have a stake in this.
ps- for more information during this time I recommend 2 websites to check that are trustworthy. They are usually fast and accurate:
www.news.va
www.newadvent.org
The conclave began today. At 7:20am we all lined up along the road for the ultimate "clap out". The tradition here at the NAC is that when your class arrives as New Men, everyone who is hear "claps you in" as you walk up the stairs into the chapel for the first time. Then, about 5 years later when you have finished and are leaving the college for the last time the bells go off and everyone lines up along the steps to "clap you out". Its a chance to say good bye, a time to remember that this guy, my friend, is now a priest and he is being sent out to labor in the Lord's vineyard. Its a whole new phase of life.
Today we did the same for the American Cardinals. They got into the van that would take them to the Vatican. All of us were there, we were all clapping. As the Cardinals passed and thanked us with waves and smiles we really felt that we all had a stake in this. Our prayers our support mattered as these men go to elect the next Pope. They are going into conclave for a major labor, it was a time to be in solidarity with them. There is a strong sense of optimism, Hope, fraternity.
Our whole college schedule is changed. Every day all of us who wish (which is nearly everybody) will go down to the square at noon and 7pm to watch for smoke. Tonight we prayed evening prayer then waited in the square. There were so many people, mostly younger. The atmosphere was vibrant. No one expected there to be a Pope tonight, but we were all there and it was great in the cool, dark, and at times sprinkling weather. After an hour of waiting black smoke poured from the chimney.
Day one is over. The Cardinals will rest and pray, and we will pray too - we all have a stake in this.
ps- for more information during this time I recommend 2 websites to check that are trustworthy. They are usually fast and accurate:
www.news.va
www.newadvent.org
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Conclave
9 March 2013
On Tuesday the conclave begins to elect a new Pope. For those who wish to read more about the details, here is a good source for information with a few articles. Maybe by next week we will have our new Pope?
Over the past few weeks I have just been trying to watch and take things in. I think a lot about His Holiness Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and what he was trying to teach us in his last actions and speeches as Pope. Here in Rome you can't go anywhere without running into someone saying something about what the Church needs, who might be the next Pope and why, etc. And probably like many of you I have been reading different articles, trying to keep myself informed, and forming my own opinions on the whole thing. Its easy to get caught up in this event - its interesting to speculate about and it makes one feel insightful, even if some of the problems are all too human.
Everything I've read or heard makes sense in one way or another. Its easy to be convinced that somebody is right on Church reform or in naming the top candidates. It is less easy to know if they are right - we all have good ideas but we could also be missing more information than we know. Sometimes what we speak with such surety isn't right, it is just an opinion.
I was talking to a trusted priest friend the other day and it helped me put things in perspective. The Holy Spirit still guides the Church. We've got to trust that simple truth. For all our insights and predictions, what we really want most is to witness His power and providence providing for the Church. We all have our part to play, but when its out of our hands, that's our chance to trust. And then it hit me, that is exactly what Benedict XVI did in his last few acts - he followed the Holy Spirit's call to deeper prayer, he trusted that the Church would succeed without him, and he encouraged us to trust with his last words at Castel Gondolfo.
There is a lot of peace in believing that God can do much more than we ask or imagine. It is freeing to trust in the Holy Spirit.
St. Joseph, pray for us!
On Tuesday the conclave begins to elect a new Pope. For those who wish to read more about the details, here is a good source for information with a few articles. Maybe by next week we will have our new Pope?
Over the past few weeks I have just been trying to watch and take things in. I think a lot about His Holiness Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and what he was trying to teach us in his last actions and speeches as Pope. Here in Rome you can't go anywhere without running into someone saying something about what the Church needs, who might be the next Pope and why, etc. And probably like many of you I have been reading different articles, trying to keep myself informed, and forming my own opinions on the whole thing. Its easy to get caught up in this event - its interesting to speculate about and it makes one feel insightful, even if some of the problems are all too human.
Everything I've read or heard makes sense in one way or another. Its easy to be convinced that somebody is right on Church reform or in naming the top candidates. It is less easy to know if they are right - we all have good ideas but we could also be missing more information than we know. Sometimes what we speak with such surety isn't right, it is just an opinion.
I was talking to a trusted priest friend the other day and it helped me put things in perspective. The Holy Spirit still guides the Church. We've got to trust that simple truth. For all our insights and predictions, what we really want most is to witness His power and providence providing for the Church. We all have our part to play, but when its out of our hands, that's our chance to trust. And then it hit me, that is exactly what Benedict XVI did in his last few acts - he followed the Holy Spirit's call to deeper prayer, he trusted that the Church would succeed without him, and he encouraged us to trust with his last words at Castel Gondolfo.
There is a lot of peace in believing that God can do much more than we ask or imagine. It is freeing to trust in the Holy Spirit.
St. Joseph, pray for us!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Waiting for the Conclave
6 March 2013
Today the Holy See Press Office reported:
Today the Holy See Press Office reported:
“The College has a great spirit of preparation that is serious, profound, and unhurried. Perhaps that is why it still did not seem opportune to take a vote on the date of the Conclave, which a large part of the College could sense as something forced in the dynamic of reflection.”
Comments like this begin to express the attitude of many here - a little sad but decidedly optimistic. The Cardinals meet every day to prepare and organize for the conclave and that has afforded us a special opportunity - many have come to celebrate Mass with us these last few days. Here are some snipits from what I remember...
Cardinal Egan - Never forget Jesus Christ is priest and victim. Never forget we encounter Him at the Mass through the person of the priest.
Cardinal Wuerl - Confession is the Sacrament of the New Evangelization.
Cardinal Dolan - The press is constantly asking the Cardinals if the Church will change now, if the next Pope will be open to change. The answer is yes - the Church has always expressed a desire for a profound change. We want God to enter into our hearts and convert us. We want Him to change our wills to conform with His will, not try to conform His will to ours. Let us pray...
Monday, March 4, 2013
Silence
4 March 2013
"It is a time for silence, a time for prayer" - remembering the words of my university president on 11 February when the now, His Holiness Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI announced the end of his pontificate.
On 28 Feb he flew over our college twice. We were all on the roof waving good bye. The last words of his pontificate came from Castel Gondolfo, and now we are sede vacante - "empty seat" - Popeless.
The Cardinals from the US are all here now. The press is out en masse. It is a time for silence, a time for prayer.
Please join us in praying for the Cardinals and the Church as they elect the next Pope. We are praying this prayer together every day, I'd be glad if you joined us with your holy prayers.
A Novena Prayer
for the Election of the Supreme Pontiff
Lord Jesus Christ,
you who have established your Church
on the solid foundation of the Apostle Peter
and have promised to remain with us
until the end of time,
grant we beseech you
that we may all be steadfast in faith
and filled with zeal for the glory of your Name.
We humbly ask that you grant
to the College of Cardinals
the Spirit of Truth that they may know your will,
and acting in courage and faith,
may elect as Supreme Pontiff
him whom you have chosen to be
Chief Shepherd of your flock
Successor of Peter, Bishop of Rome,
and Servant of the Servants of God.
Grant to us a Pope who will teach and guide
by word and example so that
together with the flock entrusted
to his care
he may arrive at eternal life in your Kingdom
where you live and reign
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
"It is a time for silence, a time for prayer" - remembering the words of my university president on 11 February when the now, His Holiness Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI announced the end of his pontificate.
On 28 Feb he flew over our college twice. We were all on the roof waving good bye. The last words of his pontificate came from Castel Gondolfo, and now we are sede vacante - "empty seat" - Popeless.
The Cardinals from the US are all here now. The press is out en masse. It is a time for silence, a time for prayer.
Please join us in praying for the Cardinals and the Church as they elect the next Pope. We are praying this prayer together every day, I'd be glad if you joined us with your holy prayers.
A Novena Prayer
for the Election of the Supreme Pontiff
Lord Jesus Christ,
you who have established your Church
on the solid foundation of the Apostle Peter
and have promised to remain with us
until the end of time,
grant we beseech you
that we may all be steadfast in faith
and filled with zeal for the glory of your Name.
We humbly ask that you grant
to the College of Cardinals
the Spirit of Truth that they may know your will,
and acting in courage and faith,
may elect as Supreme Pontiff
him whom you have chosen to be
Chief Shepherd of your flock
Successor of Peter, Bishop of Rome,
and Servant of the Servants of God.
Grant to us a Pope who will teach and guide
by word and example so that
together with the flock entrusted
to his care
he may arrive at eternal life in your Kingdom
where you live and reign
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Pope Benedict XVI's Last Wednesday Audience
27 February 2013
Here is Pope Benedict XVI's last public message, today's Wednesday Audience.
Most universities in town closed so that people could go to the Audience - but not the Pope's university. All of us at the Lateran University and the John Paul II institute continued classes as usual as Pope Benedict XVI specifically requested. He desires that everything continue as usual. There are no regrets in obedience; only inner peace and joy. I am grateful to my friends who did get to go, for sharing their experience with me.
Here is Pope Benedict XVI's last public message, today's Wednesday Audience.
Most universities in town closed so that people could go to the Audience - but not the Pope's university. All of us at the Lateran University and the John Paul II institute continued classes as usual as Pope Benedict XVI specifically requested. He desires that everything continue as usual. There are no regrets in obedience; only inner peace and joy. I am grateful to my friends who did get to go, for sharing their experience with me.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Bad News
26 February 2013
In the news as of late there has been lots of discouraging news. The resignation of Cardinal Keith O'Brien in Scotland and all the controversy surrounding that, reports about a ring of division and dissension within the curia, rumors of squabbling among Church prelates, attempts to insinuate that Pope Benedict XVI is "retiring" as a way of avoiding trouble or conversely, that he is being forced out. Some of this is information is skewed, some misleading, and to a large degree most of us don't know what this information means in its proper context.
There are likely vestiges of truth connected to all this information. I don't know, but usually people don't just make stuff up out of thin air. At the same time it is presented through someone's individual lens (like politics) and understood through another persons lens (namely each one of our personal experience and opinion of the Church). Some things get lost in translation and other things are magnified by adding our own baggage, our own spin to what we hear.
We need a good interpreter if we really want to understand correctly. I'm not sure we'll find one, but I am sure there will be plenty of more speculation. The result is we are left with disappointing news of varying degrees of truthfulness and it makes us sad, confused, or worse, suspicious. It threatens to take the focus off of the truth we really need to focus on.
Now is a good time to go back to Pope Benedict's last homily at Mass, Ash Wednesday. I really encourage you to read the whole thing, spend some time praying with it, reflect on it from your perspective. Here is one line to focus on, referring to the first reading at Mass from the prophet Joel:
Its a question worth asking ourselves today, I know I am.
In the news as of late there has been lots of discouraging news. The resignation of Cardinal Keith O'Brien in Scotland and all the controversy surrounding that, reports about a ring of division and dissension within the curia, rumors of squabbling among Church prelates, attempts to insinuate that Pope Benedict XVI is "retiring" as a way of avoiding trouble or conversely, that he is being forced out. Some of this is information is skewed, some misleading, and to a large degree most of us don't know what this information means in its proper context.
There are likely vestiges of truth connected to all this information. I don't know, but usually people don't just make stuff up out of thin air. At the same time it is presented through someone's individual lens (like politics) and understood through another persons lens (namely each one of our personal experience and opinion of the Church). Some things get lost in translation and other things are magnified by adding our own baggage, our own spin to what we hear.
We need a good interpreter if we really want to understand correctly. I'm not sure we'll find one, but I am sure there will be plenty of more speculation. The result is we are left with disappointing news of varying degrees of truthfulness and it makes us sad, confused, or worse, suspicious. It threatens to take the focus off of the truth we really need to focus on.
Now is a good time to go back to Pope Benedict's last homily at Mass, Ash Wednesday. I really encourage you to read the whole thing, spend some time praying with it, reflect on it from your perspective. Here is one line to focus on, referring to the first reading at Mass from the prophet Joel:
"Again, the prophet has God proclaim these words: "Rend your hearts and not your clothing" (v. 13). In our own day, lots of people are ready to "rend their clothing" in the face of scandals and acts of injustice – the fault naturally of others – but few seem prepared to do something about their own "hearts", their own consciences and their own intentions, allowing the Lord to transform, renew and convert them."We are in the middle of Lent in the year of Faith. We are "at the same time holy and always in need of being purified, always follow[ing] the way of penance and renewal" (Lumen Gentium 12). Are we willing to rend our hearts and not just our garments?
Its a question worth asking ourselves today, I know I am.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Benedict XVI's Last Angelus
24 February 2013
video and full text of Pope Benedict XVI's last Angelus
Note particularly what he says about prayer and the Lord's call to him at this time.
In prayer we are always close. He believes it and he means it.
video and full text of Pope Benedict XVI's last Angelus
Note particularly what he says about prayer and the Lord's call to him at this time.
In prayer we are always close. He believes it and he means it.
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Frequently asked questions
23 February 2013
This came out a couple of days ago from the Vatican Press Office; many of you might have similar questions and maybe this will help you. Remember the last paragraph of Pope Benedict XVI's talk with the Roman clergy on 14 February 2013 about the "virtual Council" vs. the "real Council". Look closely again. Reflect again. Avoid the hype; it is often misleading. Make an act of trust, an Act of Faith in this Year of Faith.
Some FAQ's on the Pope's Resignation
Act of Faith
O my God, I firmly believe
that you are one God in three divine Persons,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
I believe that your divine Son became man
and died for our sins and that he will come
to judge the living and the dead.
I believe these and all the truths
which the Holy Catholic Church teaches
because you have revealed them
who are eternal truth and wisdom,
who can neither deceive nor be deceived.
In this faith I intend to live and die.
Amen.
-From the Compendium to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
This came out a couple of days ago from the Vatican Press Office; many of you might have similar questions and maybe this will help you. Remember the last paragraph of Pope Benedict XVI's talk with the Roman clergy on 14 February 2013 about the "virtual Council" vs. the "real Council". Look closely again. Reflect again. Avoid the hype; it is often misleading. Make an act of trust, an Act of Faith in this Year of Faith.
Some FAQ's on the Pope's Resignation
Act of Faith
O my God, I firmly believe
that you are one God in three divine Persons,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
I believe that your divine Son became man
and died for our sins and that he will come
to judge the living and the dead.
I believe these and all the truths
which the Holy Catholic Church teaches
because you have revealed them
who are eternal truth and wisdom,
who can neither deceive nor be deceived.
In this faith I intend to live and die.
Amen.
-From the Compendium to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
Friday, February 22, 2013
Chair of St. Peter
22 February 2013 - Feast of the Chair of St. Peter
Today we celebrate a special feast revolving around Peter, the Pope, and apostolic succession. In these days while the successor to St. Peter is on retreat, it seems timely to share a reflection on the chair that someone once shared with me. Above is a picture of this year's NAC diaconate class who were ordained right before the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter's Basilica.
Around the chair are four Doctors (excelling teachers) of the Church, Saints Ambrose, Athanatius, Chrysostom, and Augustine. At first glance it appears that they are holding up the Chair. As if to say the bishops (the successors of the apostles), with the authority and grace given to them by virtue of their ordination and office, support the Church and carry it on through time. But that is mistaken. Bernini, the artist who created this set, had a clearer vision of ecclesiology and the Church's teaching about herself. You probably cannot see it in the picture, but it requires a longer, more reflective look.
If you look closely, the Doctors are not actually holding up the Chair. They are, as it were, loosely connected to it by ribbons hanging from the chair which signify that they do indeed possess an authority and responsibility and a power in being connected to the Chair. But they are not the support to the Chair. So, if it is not the successors of the apostles who hold up the Chair, who support the Church, who does? If you look closely again, reflect on what you are seeing again, you will see. What holds up the Chair is a cloud that comes ushering forth from behind, a cloud that comes from the Holy Spirit window above. It is the Holy Spirit who sustains the Church, who carries on the mission of Christ through the Church. This is a strength that does not, cannot fail! By the power of the Holy Spirit the Church is united with its Head, Jesus Christ. And by God's good grace, that power is revealed in men, the bishops who have retained connected to the Chair by apostolic succession. Jesus chose to build His Church on Peter, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18-19). That God would give such power to men, what trust our Lord gives to us! What trust might we offer back to Him by our fidelity to His Church.
Today, I got to pray at St. Peter's, pray for the Pope, our bishops, and whoever the next successor to Peter will be. Pope Benedict XVI, especially these last 2 weeks has been trying to teach us to trust not in a particular man, but in Christ - after all, its His Church. We certainly are grateful for Pope Benedict XVI, and we have seen God work powerfully through him. He is telling us now the story of the Chair: its not he who holds up the Church and is strength is fading - but God's is not, and He will continue to provide for His Church.
Take some time today for "retreat", even for 5 min. Take a closer look again, reflect again, and you will see a little more of the truth of these days, what the Lord is revealing to us at this time.
Today we celebrate a special feast revolving around Peter, the Pope, and apostolic succession. In these days while the successor to St. Peter is on retreat, it seems timely to share a reflection on the chair that someone once shared with me. Above is a picture of this year's NAC diaconate class who were ordained right before the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter's Basilica.
Around the chair are four Doctors (excelling teachers) of the Church, Saints Ambrose, Athanatius, Chrysostom, and Augustine. At first glance it appears that they are holding up the Chair. As if to say the bishops (the successors of the apostles), with the authority and grace given to them by virtue of their ordination and office, support the Church and carry it on through time. But that is mistaken. Bernini, the artist who created this set, had a clearer vision of ecclesiology and the Church's teaching about herself. You probably cannot see it in the picture, but it requires a longer, more reflective look.
If you look closely, the Doctors are not actually holding up the Chair. They are, as it were, loosely connected to it by ribbons hanging from the chair which signify that they do indeed possess an authority and responsibility and a power in being connected to the Chair. But they are not the support to the Chair. So, if it is not the successors of the apostles who hold up the Chair, who support the Church, who does? If you look closely again, reflect on what you are seeing again, you will see. What holds up the Chair is a cloud that comes ushering forth from behind, a cloud that comes from the Holy Spirit window above. It is the Holy Spirit who sustains the Church, who carries on the mission of Christ through the Church. This is a strength that does not, cannot fail! By the power of the Holy Spirit the Church is united with its Head, Jesus Christ. And by God's good grace, that power is revealed in men, the bishops who have retained connected to the Chair by apostolic succession. Jesus chose to build His Church on Peter, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18-19). That God would give such power to men, what trust our Lord gives to us! What trust might we offer back to Him by our fidelity to His Church.
Today, I got to pray at St. Peter's, pray for the Pope, our bishops, and whoever the next successor to Peter will be. Pope Benedict XVI, especially these last 2 weeks has been trying to teach us to trust not in a particular man, but in Christ - after all, its His Church. We certainly are grateful for Pope Benedict XVI, and we have seen God work powerfully through him. He is telling us now the story of the Chair: its not he who holds up the Church and is strength is fading - but God's is not, and He will continue to provide for His Church.
Take some time today for "retreat", even for 5 min. Take a closer look again, reflect again, and you will see a little more of the truth of these days, what the Lord is revealing to us at this time.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Angelus
18 February 2013
Yesterday Pope Benedict offered his penultimate Angelus message (video). The piazza was packed, spilling out into via conciliazione (consolation avenue). Though the crowds tried to erupt Pope Benedict wouldn't let us - he wants no false sentiment to stir in our hearts, he wants us to focus on God, not him despite what the news says.
This week the Pope and the curia go into retreat. Silence. Reflection. A time for repentance and renewal, deeper conversion.
Also, here is the Ash Wednesday homily given to NAC students and college students across Rome. Perhaps you will find it helpful too.
What If?
I have been given 48 Lents on my journey. How many do I have left? Have I grown in my life and being as Jesus has desired?
What if:
This were the final Lent God were to give to me?
I focused on one root sin in my life that I know is displeasing to God and sought to root it out?
I brought to a priest or counselor my deepest darkest secret and began to seek the freedom God has for me?
I made a deep and sincere Confession?
I fasted in a way that was challenging and fruitful?
I read three spiritual books?
I read from the Bible every day?
I really tried to attend daily Mass?
I wrote one hand-written letter per day to encourage people I know?
I made a sacrificial gift to the poor?
I really looked at the role of Facebook, texting and social media in my life?
I looked at the music I listened to and the movies I watched to see if they are helping me?
I asked, “Is my deepest consolation friends, food, sleep, entertainment or the love of God?”
I got in the physical shape God wanted me in?
I told my parents how much I appreciated them.
I sought to heal one broken relationship in my life.
I spent time in silence every day listening to the will of God for my life?
I really laid God’s plan for me for next September at His feet?
I had a long conversation with the Blessed Mother?
The first line from our readings on Ash Wednesday tell us, “Even now says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart.”
What if this Lent I gave my whole heart to Jesus?
What if?
Yesterday Pope Benedict offered his penultimate Angelus message (video). The piazza was packed, spilling out into via conciliazione (consolation avenue). Though the crowds tried to erupt Pope Benedict wouldn't let us - he wants no false sentiment to stir in our hearts, he wants us to focus on God, not him despite what the news says.
This week the Pope and the curia go into retreat. Silence. Reflection. A time for repentance and renewal, deeper conversion.
Also, here is the Ash Wednesday homily given to NAC students and college students across Rome. Perhaps you will find it helpful too.
What If?
What am I going to do this Lent? Perhaps this is a question we all ponder today as we receive our ashes and set out for our 40 day journey in the desert. But perhaps that is the wrong question to ask. Perhaps the foundational question is, “What does God ask of me this Lent?”
I have been given 48 Lents on my journey. How many do I have left? Have I grown in my life and being as Jesus has desired?
What if:
This were the final Lent God were to give to me?
I focused on one root sin in my life that I know is displeasing to God and sought to root it out?
I brought to a priest or counselor my deepest darkest secret and began to seek the freedom God has for me?
I made a deep and sincere Confession?
I fasted in a way that was challenging and fruitful?
I read three spiritual books?
I read from the Bible every day?
I really tried to attend daily Mass?
I wrote one hand-written letter per day to encourage people I know?
I made a sacrificial gift to the poor?
I really looked at the role of Facebook, texting and social media in my life?
I looked at the music I listened to and the movies I watched to see if they are helping me?
I asked, “Is my deepest consolation friends, food, sleep, entertainment or the love of God?”
I got in the physical shape God wanted me in?
I told my parents how much I appreciated them.
I sought to heal one broken relationship in my life.
I spent time in silence every day listening to the will of God for my life?
I really laid God’s plan for me for next September at His feet?
I had a long conversation with the Blessed Mother?
The first line from our readings on Ash Wednesday tell us, “Even now says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart.”
What if this Lent I gave my whole heart to Jesus?
What if?
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Listening
16 February 2013
On Thursday Pope Benedict XVI met with the clergy of Rome. He spoke extemporaneously about Vatican II for 45 min like we would talk about our hometown: remember before there weren't very many stoplights in Lebanon and going to the Motor Vue drive in for movies for $6 and the good food at the Hasty Freeze or getting a big gulp at 7-11?
You can learn much about Vatican II from this little talk. Such a clear, lucid, insightful presentation shows the Pope's profound ability to listen. Going over and over experiences and writing so as to become familiar and intimate with a thought or concept in order to pass it on to others coherently.
Lately the Pope has been reflecting a lot on Peter (talk to seminarians 9 Feb 2013 and Angelus 10 Feb 2013. A hint that his decision is very deliberate, considered, full of humility and trust in the Holy Spirit. Being a good listener helps make a good understand-er.
On Thursday Pope Benedict XVI met with the clergy of Rome. He spoke extemporaneously about Vatican II for 45 min like we would talk about our hometown: remember before there weren't very many stoplights in Lebanon and going to the Motor Vue drive in for movies for $6 and the good food at the Hasty Freeze or getting a big gulp at 7-11?
You can learn much about Vatican II from this little talk. Such a clear, lucid, insightful presentation shows the Pope's profound ability to listen. Going over and over experiences and writing so as to become familiar and intimate with a thought or concept in order to pass it on to others coherently.
Lately the Pope has been reflecting a lot on Peter (talk to seminarians 9 Feb 2013 and Angelus 10 Feb 2013. A hint that his decision is very deliberate, considered, full of humility and trust in the Holy Spirit. Being a good listener helps make a good understand-er.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Ash Wednesday surprise
13 February 2013
The Pope usually celebrates Mass at the first station Church - Santa Sabina; today was different (Station Churches if you want to follow us this Lent on your own). To accommodate more people who may want to come to Mass with the Pope he moved it to St. Peter's Basilica.
All of a sudden, the Pope needs priests to provide him a service, to distribute ashes and Holy Communion. After getting back from class and my mini pilgrimage to the Cathedra and St. Peter's Square, I learned the NAC was asked to help. Thanks to a loving secretary, the last ticket came to me.
We vested in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and sat right behind the altar. Many faithful, deacons, priests, bishops and cardinals were there. It was somber and surreal. I got to pray with the Pope at his last Mass. The first time I got to pray with him was at World Youth Day Cologne 2005. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger once wrote:
"One gets to know John Paul II best by concelebrating Mass with him, by letting oneself be drawn into the intense silence of his prayer, more than by analyzing his books or speeches. By participating in his prayer, one moves beyond words and into his very being". (written for JP2's 20th anniversary as Pope, 1998).
Praying with Pope Benedict XVI is the same for me. You know you are going to God and entering a mystery. He's looking Jesus in the eye and he wants you to have the same encounter. Tonight he looked at us as we held ashes out to be blessed. He was there to pray with us again tonight. Its tough to tell other people "Repent and believe in the Gospel" or "Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return", when his look sows the words of his homily deep in your soul: "return to the Lord with your whole heart".
Nobody could say goodbye at the end. We don't want it to end with him, but we don't feel abandoned. One still gets the sense that we are going forward together. As we tried to express our love through the meager form of standing and clapping, he did us one better: "The Lord be with you!" And with your spirit dear Pope, and with your spirit! Coming down from the altar after Mass, he looked at us, his priests, one more time...and blessed us. He knows what is most important.
There's lots of hype out there, Benedict is teaching us to see whats most important. Avoid the hype.
Thank you Jesus for a chance to pray with him again.
Both of these are worth the time to read; worth the time to spend some time in silence reflecting on:
Full Text of Weds Audience and Pope's last homily on the same site
The Pope usually celebrates Mass at the first station Church - Santa Sabina; today was different (Station Churches if you want to follow us this Lent on your own). To accommodate more people who may want to come to Mass with the Pope he moved it to St. Peter's Basilica.
All of a sudden, the Pope needs priests to provide him a service, to distribute ashes and Holy Communion. After getting back from class and my mini pilgrimage to the Cathedra and St. Peter's Square, I learned the NAC was asked to help. Thanks to a loving secretary, the last ticket came to me.
We vested in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel and sat right behind the altar. Many faithful, deacons, priests, bishops and cardinals were there. It was somber and surreal. I got to pray with the Pope at his last Mass. The first time I got to pray with him was at World Youth Day Cologne 2005. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger once wrote:
"One gets to know John Paul II best by concelebrating Mass with him, by letting oneself be drawn into the intense silence of his prayer, more than by analyzing his books or speeches. By participating in his prayer, one moves beyond words and into his very being". (written for JP2's 20th anniversary as Pope, 1998).
Praying with Pope Benedict XVI is the same for me. You know you are going to God and entering a mystery. He's looking Jesus in the eye and he wants you to have the same encounter. Tonight he looked at us as we held ashes out to be blessed. He was there to pray with us again tonight. Its tough to tell other people "Repent and believe in the Gospel" or "Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return", when his look sows the words of his homily deep in your soul: "return to the Lord with your whole heart".
Nobody could say goodbye at the end. We don't want it to end with him, but we don't feel abandoned. One still gets the sense that we are going forward together. As we tried to express our love through the meager form of standing and clapping, he did us one better: "The Lord be with you!" And with your spirit dear Pope, and with your spirit! Coming down from the altar after Mass, he looked at us, his priests, one more time...and blessed us. He knows what is most important.
There's lots of hype out there, Benedict is teaching us to see whats most important. Avoid the hype.
Thank you Jesus for a chance to pray with him again.
Both of these are worth the time to read; worth the time to spend some time in silence reflecting on:
Full Text of Weds Audience and Pope's last homily on the same site
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Ash Wednesday
13 February 2013 - Ash Wednesday
May your Lent be everything Jesus wishes it to be for you. The Pope's last public Mass will be today http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/popes-last-mass-will-be-on-ash-wednesday-in-st-peters/.
That is a surreal thing to say. For those who wish, here is his Lenten Message that he published last week:
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/messages/lent/documents/hf_ben-xvi_mes_20121015_lent-2013_en.html
Archbishop Vlazny and Archbishop-elect Sample have both made statements in response to Pope Benedict's announcement: http://www.archdpdx.org/.
Each day after class I go and pray at the Cathedra of the Pope since I go to school there. After walking back, I stop by St. Peter's Square and pray again there for Pope Benedict XVI and the Church. Dale and I are offering up a Novena for our good Pope Benedict and his successor. Prayer and study are the avenues I have to offer my solidarity to the Pope and the Church. Every time I pray the office my thoughts draw my intention to enter in more deeply into the prayer of Christ for His Church; the prayer of the Church praising her Lord.
Our Rector, Msgr. Checchio, has asked us to further our union with the Church in this time by praying for the Cardinals. Below is a prayer that we are praying if you'd like to join us:
A Novena Prayer
for the Election of the Supreme Pontiff
Lord Jesus Christ,
you who have established your Church
on the solid foundation of the Apostle Peter
and have promised to remain with us
until the end of time,
grant we beseech you
that we may all be steadfast in faith
and filled with zeal for the glory of your Name.
We humbly ask that you grant
to the College of Cardinals
the Spirit of Truth that they may know your will,
and acting in courage and faith,
may elect as Supreme Pontiff
him whom you have chosen to be
Chief Shepherd of your flock
Successor of Peter, Bishop of Rome,
and Servant of the Servants of God.
Grant to us a Pope who will teach and guide
by word and example so that
together with the flock entrusted
to his care
he may arrive at eternal life in your Kingdom
where you live and reign
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
May your Lent be everything Jesus wishes it to be for you. The Pope's last public Mass will be today http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/popes-last-mass-will-be-on-ash-wednesday-in-st-peters/.
That is a surreal thing to say. For those who wish, here is his Lenten Message that he published last week:
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/messages/lent/documents/hf_ben-xvi_mes_20121015_lent-2013_en.html
Archbishop Vlazny and Archbishop-elect Sample have both made statements in response to Pope Benedict's announcement: http://www.archdpdx.org/.
Each day after class I go and pray at the Cathedra of the Pope since I go to school there. After walking back, I stop by St. Peter's Square and pray again there for Pope Benedict XVI and the Church. Dale and I are offering up a Novena for our good Pope Benedict and his successor. Prayer and study are the avenues I have to offer my solidarity to the Pope and the Church. Every time I pray the office my thoughts draw my intention to enter in more deeply into the prayer of Christ for His Church; the prayer of the Church praising her Lord.
Our Rector, Msgr. Checchio, has asked us to further our union with the Church in this time by praying for the Cardinals. Below is a prayer that we are praying if you'd like to join us:
A Novena Prayer
for the Election of the Supreme Pontiff
Lord Jesus Christ,
you who have established your Church
on the solid foundation of the Apostle Peter
and have promised to remain with us
until the end of time,
grant we beseech you
that we may all be steadfast in faith
and filled with zeal for the glory of your Name.
We humbly ask that you grant
to the College of Cardinals
the Spirit of Truth that they may know your will,
and acting in courage and faith,
may elect as Supreme Pontiff
him whom you have chosen to be
Chief Shepherd of your flock
Successor of Peter, Bishop of Rome,
and Servant of the Servants of God.
Grant to us a Pope who will teach and guide
by word and example so that
together with the flock entrusted
to his care
he may arrive at eternal life in your Kingdom
where you live and reign
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Cardinal Sodano
12 February 2013
Rome is sad. It rained hard last night with thunder and lightening.
CARDINAL SODANO EXPRESSES COLLEGE OF CARDINALS' NEARNESS TO POPE
Vatican City, 11 February 2013 (VIS) - Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, on hearing the news of the Pope's resignation from the Petrine ministry, expressed his nearness, and that of all the cardinals, to Benedict XVI.
"We have heard you," he said, "with a sense of loss and almost disbelief. In your words we see the great affection that you have always had for God's Holy Church, for this Church that you have loved so much. Now, let me say, on behalf of this apostolic cenacle?the College of Cardinals?on behalf of your beloved collaborators, allow me to say that we are closer than ever to you, as we have been during these almost eight luminous years of your pontificate. On 19 April 2005, if I remember correctly, at the end of the conclave I asked ? 'Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?' And you did not hesitate, although moved with emotion, to answer that you accepted, trusting in the Lord's grace and the maternal intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church. Like Mary on that day she gave her 'yes', and your luminous pontificate began, following in the wake of continuity, in that continuity with your 265 predecessors in the Chair of Peter, over two thousand years of history from the Apostle Peter, the humble Galilean fisherman, to the great popes of the last century from St. Pius X to Blessed John Paul II."
"Holy Father, before 28 February, the day that, as you have said, you wish to place the word 'end' to your pontifical service, conducted with so much love and so humbly, before 28 February, we will be able to better express our feelings. So too will the many pastors and faithful throughout the world, so too all those of good will together with the authorities of many countries. ? Also, still this month, we will have the joy of listening to your voice as pastor: Ash Wednesday, Thursday with the clergy of Rome, in the Sunday Angelus, and the Wednesday general audiences, we will still have many occasions to hear your paternal voice. ? Your mission, however, will continue. You have said that you will always be near us with your witness and your prayer. Of course, the stars always continue to shine and so will the star of your pontificate always shine among us. We are near to you, Holy Father, and we ask you to bless us."
Rome is sad. It rained hard last night with thunder and lightening.
CARDINAL SODANO EXPRESSES COLLEGE OF CARDINALS' NEARNESS TO POPE
Vatican City, 11 February 2013 (VIS) - Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, on hearing the news of the Pope's resignation from the Petrine ministry, expressed his nearness, and that of all the cardinals, to Benedict XVI.
"We have heard you," he said, "with a sense of loss and almost disbelief. In your words we see the great affection that you have always had for God's Holy Church, for this Church that you have loved so much. Now, let me say, on behalf of this apostolic cenacle?the College of Cardinals?on behalf of your beloved collaborators, allow me to say that we are closer than ever to you, as we have been during these almost eight luminous years of your pontificate. On 19 April 2005, if I remember correctly, at the end of the conclave I asked ? 'Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?' And you did not hesitate, although moved with emotion, to answer that you accepted, trusting in the Lord's grace and the maternal intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church. Like Mary on that day she gave her 'yes', and your luminous pontificate began, following in the wake of continuity, in that continuity with your 265 predecessors in the Chair of Peter, over two thousand years of history from the Apostle Peter, the humble Galilean fisherman, to the great popes of the last century from St. Pius X to Blessed John Paul II."
"Holy Father, before 28 February, the day that, as you have said, you wish to place the word 'end' to your pontifical service, conducted with so much love and so humbly, before 28 February, we will be able to better express our feelings. So too will the many pastors and faithful throughout the world, so too all those of good will together with the authorities of many countries. ? Also, still this month, we will have the joy of listening to your voice as pastor: Ash Wednesday, Thursday with the clergy of Rome, in the Sunday Angelus, and the Wednesday general audiences, we will still have many occasions to hear your paternal voice. ? Your mission, however, will continue. You have said that you will always be near us with your witness and your prayer. Of course, the stars always continue to shine and so will the star of your pontificate always shine among us. We are near to you, Holy Father, and we ask you to bless us."
Pope Benedict XVI's announcement
11 February 2013 - Our Lady of Lourdes
As I was finishing my first class day of my last semester, the Pope said this (video):
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-21411304
The President of the JP2 Institute, Mons. Livio Melina, came in and announced to us that Pope Benedict XVI had just abrogated his office effective 28 Feb 2013. We were stunned. Through his tears he told us that this is a time of silence, a time not to have many talks and chats, but a time to pray. He asked each of us to offer all our work and our study for the Pope and the Church. We need to pray and work hard.
Fr. Strand and I went to the Pope's Cathedral, St. John Lateran, where we study. We knelt and prayed before the chair, asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, praying for the good of the Pope and the Church. I don't understand this very well.
We walked to St. Peter's, to pray in the square. Maybe its like it was when Blessed John XXIII announced Vatican II http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBNEEjwCQyc (3:16 and following). We were quiet there and prayed separately. There was no one there. I prayed a rosary facing the Pope's apartment, at times glancing over to St. Peter's Basilica. I still don't understand, but during that time I felt peace and no fear. I was filled with Hope and confidence. I trust and love the Holy Spirit. I trust and love the Church. I trust and love Pope Benedict XVI.
Though I feel sadness and still don't understand, I realized: here I am with my greatest opportunity to be in solidarity with the Pope, the reason I was sent here. So I will offer up my studies and labors for the Pope and the Church. I will pray. I will be silent. I will look for what God has for us in all this. O God, that you entrust such times to us!
As I was finishing my first class day of my last semester, the Pope said this (video):
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-21411304
The President of the JP2 Institute, Mons. Livio Melina, came in and announced to us that Pope Benedict XVI had just abrogated his office effective 28 Feb 2013. We were stunned. Through his tears he told us that this is a time of silence, a time not to have many talks and chats, but a time to pray. He asked each of us to offer all our work and our study for the Pope and the Church. We need to pray and work hard.
Fr. Strand and I went to the Pope's Cathedral, St. John Lateran, where we study. We knelt and prayed before the chair, asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, praying for the good of the Pope and the Church. I don't understand this very well.
We walked to St. Peter's, to pray in the square. Maybe its like it was when Blessed John XXIII announced Vatican II http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBNEEjwCQyc (3:16 and following). We were quiet there and prayed separately. There was no one there. I prayed a rosary facing the Pope's apartment, at times glancing over to St. Peter's Basilica. I still don't understand, but during that time I felt peace and no fear. I was filled with Hope and confidence. I trust and love the Holy Spirit. I trust and love the Church. I trust and love Pope Benedict XVI.
Though I feel sadness and still don't understand, I realized: here I am with my greatest opportunity to be in solidarity with the Pope, the reason I was sent here. So I will offer up my studies and labors for the Pope and the Church. I will pray. I will be silent. I will look for what God has for us in all this. O God, that you entrust such times to us!
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land - day 13
3 January 2013 - 1st Thursday, coming home
Calvary -
down to Calvary by 4:30, just trying to be quiet. Encounter, intimacy with a person, not a place. Watched groups come up to pray, venerate Calvary, celebrate Mass. Praying for all priests on this 1st Thursday, all those who asked for special prayers at Calvary. Got to bless Ron and Patti Vasek, Fr. Craig Vasek, Elizabeth and Jillian last night - people calling my priesthood out of me.
Upper Room -
This is the place where 4 of the 7 Sacraments were instituted: Reconciliation, Confirmation, Eucharist and Priesthood. We have a couple hours until 10:30am Mass and 11:30am departure so I'm spending my time here, praying a rosary. Prayed for priests and those who asked for special prayers here.
Intentions - prayed for intentions here today, that all might know the forgiveness of their sins, be renewed in the strength of their Confirmation, be blessed with holy priests, and find Hope in the Eucharist.
On the plane and on our way home, reading Unbroken again, an analogy for priestly zeal.
Thus ends my priestly pilgrimage to the Holy Land, thank you for coming with me!
Taking pictures is not my best attribute. It pulls me out of the moment and so I don't really take many photos. However, there are some guys who do. Here are Deacon David's pictures that he generously shared with anyone who might wish to have a more visual accounting of our time in the Holy Land. Enjoy!
Set 1 (209 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/3bN910/
Set 2 (280 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/5xk5cp/
Set 3 (210 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/W5NUy8/
Set 4 (273 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/1d888e/
Set 5 (55 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/3CW34P/
Calvary -
down to Calvary by 4:30, just trying to be quiet. Encounter, intimacy with a person, not a place. Watched groups come up to pray, venerate Calvary, celebrate Mass. Praying for all priests on this 1st Thursday, all those who asked for special prayers at Calvary. Got to bless Ron and Patti Vasek, Fr. Craig Vasek, Elizabeth and Jillian last night - people calling my priesthood out of me.
Upper Room -
This is the place where 4 of the 7 Sacraments were instituted: Reconciliation, Confirmation, Eucharist and Priesthood. We have a couple hours until 10:30am Mass and 11:30am departure so I'm spending my time here, praying a rosary. Prayed for priests and those who asked for special prayers here.
Intentions - prayed for intentions here today, that all might know the forgiveness of their sins, be renewed in the strength of their Confirmation, be blessed with holy priests, and find Hope in the Eucharist.
On the plane and on our way home, reading Unbroken again, an analogy for priestly zeal.
Thus ends my priestly pilgrimage to the Holy Land, thank you for coming with me!
Taking pictures is not my best attribute. It pulls me out of the moment and so I don't really take many photos. However, there are some guys who do. Here are Deacon David's pictures that he generously shared with anyone who might wish to have a more visual accounting of our time in the Holy Land. Enjoy!
Set 1 (209 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/3bN910/
Set 2 (280 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/5xk5cp/
Set 3 (210 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/W5NUy8/
Set 4 (273 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/1d888e/
Set 5 (55 photos) - http://flickr.com/gp/desquiliano/3CW34P/
Friday, January 25, 2013
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land - day 12
2 January 2013
Calvary -
Fr. Keith Romke and I happened to show up at the same time to pray at Calvary and we had the special opportunity to celebrate Mass there together with Deacon Doke assisting. There I offered Mass for Kevin and Lisa Mangers family, Bryce and Angel Herman Family, and Keith and Steph Blair family. The homily is below:
The Blood of Christ: the sign of His total self-giving love. Let us pray for the grace to give all our love to Him.
Ein Karim -
This is where Mary visited Elizabeth. Mary proclaims her Magnificat here, full of wonder and gratitude at what the Lord is doing in her. John the Baptist was born here and Zechariah offers his Benedictus - his first words since hearing he would have a son, an "impossible" act of God. There is a striking image here of the soldiers slaughtering the Holy Innocents.
Bethlehem -
Fr. Hurley gave me a great gift today. Here, during my first Christmas as a priest, he is giving me the privilege of offering the Mass of the Nativity at the place where the Nativity took place. This is also a particularly moving place because we will be in the cell of St. Jerome who settled down here and translated the Scriptures here, letting the Incarnation affect his whole life. On December 8th 2012, my spiritual director at Mt. Angel, Fr. Jerome Young OSB died. It was a tough loss to lose someone who knew my soul so well. There are lots of things that I could talk with to him that no one else seemed to get. Heaven's gain, my loss. Here, I offer my Mass intention for the repose of his soul, the best give a spiritual son can offer to his father. Homily below:
St. Jerome let the mystery of this place penetrate his life. In the Incarnation he saw the ordinariness of God made flesh; listened to the silence of the God who speaks divine words in human language. Perhaps the vulgate (translating the scriptures into the "common" tongue) is the result of him soaking up the grace of this place.
What a pity it would be if we didn't follow his example and be influenced by the places we've been:
-At Peter's primacy we saw Jesus appear in the Eucharist where Jesus appeared to Peter.
-At the Mount of Beatitudes we listened to the Sermon on the Mount, on the Mount where Jesus gave that Sermon.
-In Capernaum we received the Body and Blood of Christ where Christ told us His Flesh and Blood are true food and drink.
-At the Jordan River we renewed our Baptismal promises where Jesus sanctified the waters of Baptism.
-We walked up Mount Tabor and talked with one another where Peter James and John walked with Jesus and saw Him talk with Moses and Elijah and hopefully took a moment of silence to pray just as they heard the Father's voice "Listen to Him".
-At Gethsemane we knelt an hour in prayer where Jesus asked us to keep watch with Him.
-At Calvary the Sacrifice of the Mass was re-presented where Jesus consummated His Sacrifice.
-In the Tomb, we celebrated the Resurrection where the Resurrection took place.
And now we are in Bethlehem; what is the grace of this place? Desire.
Desire comes from the latin, "de sidera" "from the stars". We perceive something beyond us, that touches us and awakens a desire in us. It is at first a passive movement- we are stirred; an affective union takes place - not just sentiment, but a genuine affective union develops in our heart that orients and propels us to desire a real union with that which attracted us. This desire of ours is preceded by something else, something real. It is love that precedes desire. The star that appeared above this place so long ago marked the love of God come into the world. The presence of the one who loves us dwelt among us, His beloved, and a desire for real union with Him awakens within us. Just like the Kings, just like the shepherds, we come here to discover what this might mean.
Here, the Light of Christ has come into the world. The Light of Christ purifies and transforms our desires, so that we might see things as they really are, and desire not just something that gives us pleasure, but desire that real union that brings eternal happiness.
Almost imperceptibly He comes into our world, virtually unnoticed. Pause, take a moment to attend to what is stirring in you, permit Him to be your desire and soak in the grace of this place.
Intentions - I prayed for intentions here, that our desires might be transformed, that we might long watchfully and attentively for the grace You wish to give us.
Do not dash through, soak it in. Don't cling to the place but let it penetrate you. A priest is humble in His coming, almost imperceptible, becoming part of the place he entrusts himself to.
Manger -
They were cleaning today and the manger was closed, but after I offered my thanksgiving following Mass I ran into Horn and he showed me a way in; I walked right down to the manger and let this place penetrate me. What is the desire You want to grow in me? The Holy Family was here, the shepherd's, the wise men, in silence Mary pondered all that was said. Thank You. Desire for You; not any thing, but You. Prayed an angelus with Bulso.
Milk Grotto -
a place, a quiet place, where many prayers for conception have been answered. Prayed particularly for those who are trying to conceive, those who have had miscarriages, and those who have children about to be born. Tried to find the shepherd's field with Kuharski but no success. Back to the bus.
Calvary -
It was noisy and busy here today. I tried just to be here and present - tough.
Grace sharing -
Our NAC custom is for each person to share a grace that he received during a retreat, and this is no exception. It is good to share with others the graces given to us, the graces we received. Obviously this is a private affair, a "you had to be there" to get it type of thing, but I share a few anonymous statements the guys shared that struck me.
"I realized I don't have to be at Calvary to celebrate it. In the Mass I'm at all these places, I don't have to be attached to a place or be at a place to experience Christ".
"The beauty of simple devotion of others".
"I realized Christ came not to sanctify places but people".
"The places became personal - Christ had my life in mind when He did these things".
"He's not asking for much, just for me to give Him some time".
"Christ calls me not for what I can give, but because He loves me".
"The graces are different than I expected".
"The ordinariness of Galilee made it so real".
"Gaining the same vantage point of Christ, not intellectually but allowing myself to let the Lord love me".
"The Lord calls us to Faith".
"Its not what I want from you, but what I want for you".
Graces are not an all at once type of thing, they develop over time.
Calvary -
Fr. Keith Romke and I happened to show up at the same time to pray at Calvary and we had the special opportunity to celebrate Mass there together with Deacon Doke assisting. There I offered Mass for Kevin and Lisa Mangers family, Bryce and Angel Herman Family, and Keith and Steph Blair family. The homily is below:
The Blood of Christ: the sign of His total self-giving love. Let us pray for the grace to give all our love to Him.
Ein Karim -
This is where Mary visited Elizabeth. Mary proclaims her Magnificat here, full of wonder and gratitude at what the Lord is doing in her. John the Baptist was born here and Zechariah offers his Benedictus - his first words since hearing he would have a son, an "impossible" act of God. There is a striking image here of the soldiers slaughtering the Holy Innocents.
Bethlehem -
Fr. Hurley gave me a great gift today. Here, during my first Christmas as a priest, he is giving me the privilege of offering the Mass of the Nativity at the place where the Nativity took place. This is also a particularly moving place because we will be in the cell of St. Jerome who settled down here and translated the Scriptures here, letting the Incarnation affect his whole life. On December 8th 2012, my spiritual director at Mt. Angel, Fr. Jerome Young OSB died. It was a tough loss to lose someone who knew my soul so well. There are lots of things that I could talk with to him that no one else seemed to get. Heaven's gain, my loss. Here, I offer my Mass intention for the repose of his soul, the best give a spiritual son can offer to his father. Homily below:
St. Jerome let the mystery of this place penetrate his life. In the Incarnation he saw the ordinariness of God made flesh; listened to the silence of the God who speaks divine words in human language. Perhaps the vulgate (translating the scriptures into the "common" tongue) is the result of him soaking up the grace of this place.
What a pity it would be if we didn't follow his example and be influenced by the places we've been:
-At Peter's primacy we saw Jesus appear in the Eucharist where Jesus appeared to Peter.
-At the Mount of Beatitudes we listened to the Sermon on the Mount, on the Mount where Jesus gave that Sermon.
-In Capernaum we received the Body and Blood of Christ where Christ told us His Flesh and Blood are true food and drink.
-At the Jordan River we renewed our Baptismal promises where Jesus sanctified the waters of Baptism.
-We walked up Mount Tabor and talked with one another where Peter James and John walked with Jesus and saw Him talk with Moses and Elijah and hopefully took a moment of silence to pray just as they heard the Father's voice "Listen to Him".
-At Gethsemane we knelt an hour in prayer where Jesus asked us to keep watch with Him.
-At Calvary the Sacrifice of the Mass was re-presented where Jesus consummated His Sacrifice.
-In the Tomb, we celebrated the Resurrection where the Resurrection took place.
And now we are in Bethlehem; what is the grace of this place? Desire.
Desire comes from the latin, "de sidera" "from the stars". We perceive something beyond us, that touches us and awakens a desire in us. It is at first a passive movement- we are stirred; an affective union takes place - not just sentiment, but a genuine affective union develops in our heart that orients and propels us to desire a real union with that which attracted us. This desire of ours is preceded by something else, something real. It is love that precedes desire. The star that appeared above this place so long ago marked the love of God come into the world. The presence of the one who loves us dwelt among us, His beloved, and a desire for real union with Him awakens within us. Just like the Kings, just like the shepherds, we come here to discover what this might mean.
Here, the Light of Christ has come into the world. The Light of Christ purifies and transforms our desires, so that we might see things as they really are, and desire not just something that gives us pleasure, but desire that real union that brings eternal happiness.
Almost imperceptibly He comes into our world, virtually unnoticed. Pause, take a moment to attend to what is stirring in you, permit Him to be your desire and soak in the grace of this place.
Intentions - I prayed for intentions here, that our desires might be transformed, that we might long watchfully and attentively for the grace You wish to give us.
Do not dash through, soak it in. Don't cling to the place but let it penetrate you. A priest is humble in His coming, almost imperceptible, becoming part of the place he entrusts himself to.
Manger -
They were cleaning today and the manger was closed, but after I offered my thanksgiving following Mass I ran into Horn and he showed me a way in; I walked right down to the manger and let this place penetrate me. What is the desire You want to grow in me? The Holy Family was here, the shepherd's, the wise men, in silence Mary pondered all that was said. Thank You. Desire for You; not any thing, but You. Prayed an angelus with Bulso.
Milk Grotto -
a place, a quiet place, where many prayers for conception have been answered. Prayed particularly for those who are trying to conceive, those who have had miscarriages, and those who have children about to be born. Tried to find the shepherd's field with Kuharski but no success. Back to the bus.
Calvary -
It was noisy and busy here today. I tried just to be here and present - tough.
Grace sharing -
Our NAC custom is for each person to share a grace that he received during a retreat, and this is no exception. It is good to share with others the graces given to us, the graces we received. Obviously this is a private affair, a "you had to be there" to get it type of thing, but I share a few anonymous statements the guys shared that struck me.
"I realized I don't have to be at Calvary to celebrate it. In the Mass I'm at all these places, I don't have to be attached to a place or be at a place to experience Christ".
"The beauty of simple devotion of others".
"I realized Christ came not to sanctify places but people".
"The places became personal - Christ had my life in mind when He did these things".
"He's not asking for much, just for me to give Him some time".
"Christ calls me not for what I can give, but because He loves me".
"The graces are different than I expected".
"The ordinariness of Galilee made it so real".
"Gaining the same vantage point of Christ, not intellectually but allowing myself to let the Lord love me".
"The Lord calls us to Faith".
"Its not what I want from you, but what I want for you".
Graces are not an all at once type of thing, they develop over time.
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| Ein Karim, the church of the Visitation where Mary prayed the Magnificat |
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| The door into the Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem |
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| Bethlehem - The Milk Grotto |
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