CatholicReboot

Welcome, to another episode of CR in which we will discuss the "Steadfast in Faith," where we delve into the timeless wisdom of our Catholic tradition, seeking guidance and strength for our spiritual journey, and today, we're exploring the profound messages encapsulated in the words of two revered saints and a passage from the Psalms. Our first quote comes from the inspiring St. Andrew Kim Taegon, who urges us with these words: "I urge you to remain steadfast in faith, so that at last we will all reach heaven and there rejoice together." These words resonate deeply, reminding us of the ultimate goal of our faith journey: to reach heaven, to be reunited with God and all His saints in eternal joy. But how do we remain steadfast in our faith amidst the challenges and distractions of this world? Let's break down St. Andrew Kim Taegon's quote: "I urge you to remain steadfast in faith, Here, St. Andrew Kim Taegon emphasizes the importance of maintaining a firm and unwavering commitment to one's faith. To be steadfast means to be resolute, persistent, and unwavering in belief, regardless of the circumstances or challenges one may face. "so that at last we will all reach heaven St. Andrew highlights the ultimate goal of the Christian faith: to attain heaven, our eternal home in the presence of God. This suggests that remaining steadfast in faith is not just about personal conviction but also about ensuring our final destination—eternity with God in heaven. "and there rejoice together." Finally, St. Andrew emphasizes the communal aspect of our journey of faith. He reminds us that our faith is not just an individual pursuit but a shared experience. The joy of reaching heaven is magnified when we rejoice together with all the faithful, united in the eternal presence of God. In essence, St. Andrew Kim Taegon's quote encourages us to persevere in our faith, keeping our eyes fixed on the ultimate goal of heaven, and finding joy in the shared experience of faith with our fellow believers. Here, Saint Francis de Sales provides us with a beautiful analogy: "Imitate a little child, whom one sees holding tight with one hand to its father, while with the other it gathers strawberries or blackberries from the wayside hedge." What a profound image! Just as a child trusts its father completely while enjoying the simple pleasures of life, we too are called to trust our heavenly Father as we navigate through the joys and trials of our earthly existence. Let's break down Saint Francis de Sales' quote: "Imitate a little child, Saint Francis de Sales begins by invoking the image of a child, suggesting that there is something inherently pure and innocent in the behavior of children that we can learn from. Children often embody qualities such as trust, simplicity, and dependence, which are valuable virtues in the spiritual life. "whom one sees holding tight with one hand to its father, Here, Saint Francis paints a vivid picture of a child holding tightly to its father's hand. This imagery symbolizes trust and reliance on a higher authority or guidance, much like how we are called to trust in God as our heavenly Father. "while with the other it gathers strawberries or blackberries from the wayside hedge." Despite holding onto the father's hand, the child is depicted as still being engaged in the simple joys of life, represented by gathering strawberries or blackberries. This suggests that while we trust in God and rely on His guidance, we can still enjoy the blessings and experiences of the world around us, understanding that they come from God's hand. In summary, Saint Francis de Sales' quote encourages us to imitate the trusting and dependent nature of a child in our relationship with God, holding tightly to His guidance while still enjoying the simple pleasures of life, all of which are ultimately gifts from our heavenly Father. But how do we maintain this trust and steadfastness? Our scripture reading from Psalm 42:8 offers a clue: "By day the Lord commands His steadfast love; and at night His song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life." In this verse, we find solace in the assurance of God's unwavering love, both day and night. His presence surrounds us, His song comforts us, and His love sustains us through every moment of our lives. Let's break down Psalm 42:8: "By day the Lord commands His steadfast love; This verse begins by affirming the continuous nature of God's love. The phrase "By day" implies that God's love is ever-present, active, and enduring throughout our daily lives. The word "commands" suggests that God's love is not passive but rather proactive and intentional, demonstrating His sovereignty and authority. "and at night His song is with me, Here, the psalmist describes how God's presence and comfort extend even into the darkness of night. The image of God's song being with the psalmist suggests a sense of intimacy and companionship. Even in times of solitude or distress, the psalmist finds solace in knowing that God is near, singing over them with love and care. "a prayer to the God of my life." The verse concludes with an acknowledgment of God's central role in the psalmist's life. The phrase "a prayer to the God of my life" highlights the psalmist's dependence on God for guidance, protection, and sustenance. It reflects a deep and personal relationship between the psalmist and their Creator, where prayer becomes a constant expression of faith and reliance on God's unfailing love. In summary, Psalm 42:8 reminds us of the unwavering nature of God's love, which accompanies us both day and night. It encourages us to find comfort and strength in knowing that God is always present, singing over us with His love and guiding us through every moment of our lives. As we reflect on these words from St. Andrew Kim Taegon, Saint Francis de Sales, and the Psalmist, let us commit ourselves to remaining steadfast in faith, trusting in the Father's love, and seeking His guidance in all that we do. For it is in walking hand in hand with our heavenly Father that we find true joy and fulfillment, both in this life and in the life to come. Thank you for joining us today on "Steadfast in Faith." Until next time, may God's love and peace be with you always. Now go out and convert somebody.

Communion: The Holy Spirit and Creation We delve into the spiritual richness of our Catholic faith. Today, we're exploring the profound depths of prayer, the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and the divine revelation found in the natural world. Let's begin by exploring the concept of prayer as articulated by St. Benedicta of the Cross. Prayer, at its core, is more than mere supplication or petition; it is an act of profound intimacy, a surrender of the self to the boundless love of God. In prayer, we open our hearts to receive the gift of God's presence, allowing His grace to transform us from within. This transformative power finds expression in the fruits of the Spirit delineated by St. Paul in his letter to the Galatians. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – these virtues are not merely abstract ideals but tangible manifestations of the Spirit at work within us. When faced with adversity, the disciples exemplified this joy, demonstrating that authentic faith transcends circumstances and transforms suffering into an opportunity for spiritual growth. The natural world, as depicted in the Book of Job, serves as a testament to God's wisdom and providence. From the majesty of the mountains to the intricate beauty of a flower, every aspect of creation bears witness to the handiwork of the Creator. By attuning ourselves to the rhythms of nature, we gain insight into the divine order that sustains all life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living beings. In the words of St. Benedicta of the Cross, "The limitless loving devotion to God, and the gift God makes of Himself to you, are the highest elevation of which the heart is capable; it is the highest degree of prayer." This sentiment points to the essence of our relationship with the divine a love that knows no bounds and a communion that transcends earthly understanding. Let's break down St. Benedicta of the Cross's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "The limitless loving devotion to God": In Catholic theology, loving devotion to God is understood as the highest calling of the human heart. This devotion involves a deep and unwavering commitment to God, characterized by love, reverence, and obedience. It encompasses both the emotional and the volitional aspects of love, drawing the believer into a profound relationship with the Divine. "The gift God makes of Himself to you": Central to Catholic teaching is the concept of God's self-revelation and self-gift. God, in His infinite love and generosity, offers Himself to humanity in various ways, most notably through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Through Christ, God reveals His nature, His will, and His salvific plan for humanity. Additionally, God continually offers Himself to us through the sacraments, prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. "Are the highest elevation of which the heart is capable": St. Benedicta emphasizes that the love and devotion to God, along with His gift of Himself to us, represent the pinnacle of human experience and aspiration. It surpasses all earthly pursuits and desires, transcending the limitations of human understanding and reaching towards the divine. In Catholic spirituality, the goal of human life is union with God, and this union is achieved through love and communion with Him. "It is the highest degree of prayer": St. Benedicta identifies this loving devotion and God's self-gift as the ultimate form of prayer. While prayer can take many forms, including vocal prayers, meditative prayers, and contemplative prayers, the highest form of prayer is the loving union of the soul with God. In this state of communion, the soul is lifted beyond words and thoughts, resting in the presence of God and participating in His divine life. From a traditional Catholic perspective, St. Benedicta of the Cross's quote underscores the centrality of love, devotion, and communion with God in the life of faith. It reminds believers of the transformative power of prayer, which elevates the human heart to its highest potential and unites it with the divine source of all love and goodness. Similarly, Rev. Jude Winkler, O.F.M, draws our attention to the fruits of the Spirit outlined in Galatians 5:22-23, reminding us that despite persecution, the disciples were filled with joy. This joy, born of the Spirit, becomes a litmus test for our own words and actions, reflecting the guiding presence of God in our lives. I have used Fr Winkler before but let me provide a short bio to refresh your memory. Rev. Jude Winkler, O.F.M, was a Franciscan friar and a prolific author known for his works in Catholic literature, particularly aimed at children and young adults. Born on July 30, 1941, in Hartford, Connecticut, he entered the Order of Friars Minor (Franciscans) and was ordained to the priesthood in 1967. Throughout his life, Rev. Jude Winkler dedicated himself to the service of God and the Church, with a special emphasis on catechesis and evangelization. He wrote numerous books and pamphlets, many of which were designed to help children and families grow in their understanding and practice of the Catholic faith. Rev. Winkler's writings often focused on making complex theological concepts accessible and engaging for young readers. His works ranged from simple explanations of Catholic doctrine to reflections on the lives of saints, all with the aim of deepening the reader's relationship with God and His Church. Now for his quote: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Even though the Disciples suffered persecution, they were filled with joy. One would have expected them to be depressed or angry or resentful. The very fact that they responded to persecution with joy is a sign that the Spirit was guiding their actions. We can use that same test with our own words and actions." Let's break down this quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)": This passage from the Letter to the Galatians highlights the fruits of the Holy Spirit, which are the virtues and qualities that manifest in the lives of believers who are open to the working of the Spirit. These virtues are essential for living a Christian life and reflect the transformation that occurs when one is guided by the Spirit. "Even though the Disciples suffered persecution, they were filled with joy": Despite facing persecution and hardship, the early disciples of Jesus maintained a sense of joy. This joy was not based on external circumstances but rather rooted in their deep faith and relationship with Christ. In Catholic theology, joy is considered a gift of the Holy Spirit, a profound sense of gladness and contentment that comes from knowing and loving God. "One would have expected them to be depressed or angry or resentful": The natural human response to persecution and suffering might be depression, anger, or resentment. However, the disciples' joyful response defied these expectations, indicating that their strength and resilience came from a supernatural source – the Holy Spirit. "The very fact that they responded to persecution with joy is a sign that the Spirit was guiding their actions": This observation suggests that the disciples' joy was not merely a human emotion but rather a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's presence and guidance in their lives. In Catholic theology, the Holy Spirit empowers believers to respond to life's challenges with courage, hope, and joy, even in the face of adversity. "We can use that same test with our own words and actions": The quote encourages believers to examine their own lives and actions in light of the disciples' example. By assessing whether our responses to difficulties are characterized by joy and other fruits of the Spirit, we can discern whether we are truly being guided by the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this quote underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, enabling them to respond to suffering and persecution with supernatural joy and resilience. It invites individuals to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Spirit and to allow His fruits to manifest in their words and actions. Moreover, the Book of Job invites us to contemplate the wisdom revealed in the natural world. "But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the air, and they will tell you... In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind." Here, we find echoes of divine providence woven into the fabric of creation, beckoning us to recognize the hand of the Lord in all things. In conclusion, our traditional Catholic perspective offers a holistic understanding of prayer, the Holy Spirit, and the natural world. Through prayer, we enter into communion with God, experiencing the highest degree of love and devotion. Guided by the fruits of the Spirit, we navigate life's challenges with joy and fortitude, knowing that God's presence sustains us in every circumstance. And as we contemplate the wonders of creation, we discern the hand of the Lord at work, revealing His wisdom and providential care. May we, like the saints and disciples before us, embrace the transformative power of prayer, the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, and the divine revelation found in the natural world. In doing so, may we draw ever closer to the heart of God and embody His love and compassion in the world. Thank you for joining us on this journey of faith and reflection. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly. Now take all of this an go out and convert somebody.

"Mary and the Art of Prayer: The Hours of the Virgin in Medieval Christian Life and Thought" by Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown was published in 2017 and is a scholarly exploration of the role of the Virgin Mary in medieval Christian devotion and spirituality. The book focuses particularly on the practice of praying the Hours of the Virgin, a set of prayers that were central to medieval religious life. Dr. Brown examines how the Virgin Mary was perceived and understood by medieval Christians, drawing on a wide range of sources including liturgical texts, theological writings, artwork, and personal devotional practices. She explores the ways in which Mary was both a figure of reverence and a model of devotion, offering insights into the complexities of medieval spirituality. Through her analysis, Dr. Brown sheds light on the significance of the Hours of the Virgin as a form of prayer that shaped the daily rhythms of medieval life and provided a framework for understanding the relationship between humanity and the divine. She also explores the ways in which Mary was seen as a mediator between humanity and God, offering comfort, intercession, and guidance to believers. Dr. Brown explores how the practice of praying the Hours of the Virgin became deeply integrated into the daily rhythms of medieval life, shaping the way people experienced time and structured their days around prayer. Through this regular devotion, believers engaged in a continual dialogue with Mary, seeking her intercession and guidance in their spiritual lives. Moreover, Dr. Brown highlights Mary's role as a mediator between humanity and God within the context of these prayers. In medieval theology, Mary was often portrayed as a compassionate intercessor who could plead on behalf of sinners before the throne of God. Believers turned to Mary for comfort in times of trouble, trusting in her maternal care and her ability to bring their petitions before God. Additionally, Dr. Brown examines how the prayers of the Hours of the Virgin served as a means of deepening believers' understanding of their relationship with the divine. By contemplating Mary's life, her virtues, and her relationship with her Son, Jesus Christ, medieval Christians sought to emulate her example and draw closer to God. Dr. Brown's analysis illuminates how the Hours of the Virgin functioned not only as a set of prayers but also as a spiritual discipline that shaped the lived experience of medieval Christians, fostering a profound sense of connection to Mary as a mediator and guide in their journey toward God. Here's how her work sheds light on this aspect: Ritualized Devotion: The Hours of the Virgin were part of a broader liturgical tradition that structured the daily routine of medieval Christians. By participating in these prayers at specific times throughout the day, believers engaged in a ritualized form of devotion that reinforced their connection to the divine and provided a sense of continuity with the wider Christian community. Meditative Practice: Dr. Brown explores how the prayers of the Hours of the Virgin served as a means of contemplation and meditation on the life of Mary and the mysteries of the Christian faith. Through repeated recitation of psalms, hymns, and readings, believers entered into a deeper spiritual communion with Mary, allowing her to guide their thoughts and prayers toward a deeper understanding of God's will. Imitation of Mary: Central to medieval devotion to Mary was the idea of imitating her virtues and following her example as a faithful disciple of Christ. The Hours of the Virgin provided a framework for believers to reflect on Mary's humility, obedience, and devotion to God, inspiring them to cultivate similar qualities in their own lives and deepen their relationship with God. Intercession and Mediation: Dr. Brown highlights how the Hours of the Virgin facilitated a sense of intimacy and closeness to Mary as a compassionate intercessor and mediator between humanity and God. Believers turned to Mary in times of need, confident in her ability to intercede on their behalf and bring their prayers before the throne of God. Sense of Connection: Through the daily practice of the Hours of the Virgin, medieval Christians fostered a profound sense of connection to Mary as a spiritual mother and guide in their journey toward God. By immersing themselves in her life and prayers, believers cultivated a deep and personal relationship with Mary, finding solace, encouragement, and strength in her maternal care and intercession. Dr. Brown's analysis underscores how the Hours of the Virgin functioned as more than just a set of prayers; they were a transformative spiritual discipline that shaped the lived experience of medieval Christians, fostering a profound sense of connection to Mary as a mediator and guide in their journey toward God. Overall, "Mary and the Art of Prayer" offers a rich and detailed exploration of the place of Mary in medieval Christian spirituality, highlighting her central role in shaping the religious imagination of the period. It is a valuable resource for scholars and anyone interested in the history of Christian devotion and religious practice. St Louis Mary De Montfort Now let me transition to one of my favorite saints and that is mostly due to his devotion to the Blessed Mother. To me he is the Marian of all Marians. St. Louis de Montfort, a French Roman Catholic priest and theologian, wrote several notable works on devotion to the Virgin Mary. Some of his most renowned books include: "True Devotion to Mary" (also known as "True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin" or "True Devotion to the Virgin Mary") - This is perhaps St. Louis de Montfort's most famous work. In it, he outlines his teachings on Marian devotion and encourages readers to consecrate themselves entirely to Mary as a means of drawing closer to Jesus Christ. "The Secret of the Rosary" - In this book, St. Louis de Montfort provides instructions and reflections on the devotion to the Rosary, a traditional Catholic prayer that focuses on the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. He offers insights into the spiritual benefits of praying the Rosary and encourages its regular practice. "The Secret of Mary" (also known as "The Secret of Sanctity") - This work explores the role of Mary in the spiritual life of believers and offers guidance on how to deepen one's devotion to her. St. Louis de Montfort emphasizes Mary's role as a mediator of grace and encourages readers to entrust themselves to her maternal care. These works by St. Louis de Montfort have had a profound influence on Catholic devotion to Mary and continue to be widely read and studied by believers around the world. themes and concepts in "True Devotion to Mary": The Nature of True Devotion: St. Louis de Montfort begins by defining what he means by "true devotion" to Mary. He distinguishes between true devotion, which is characterized by a complete and unconditional surrender of oneself to Mary, and false or superficial devotion, which lacks sincerity and commitment. The Purpose of True Devotion: The primary aim of true devotion to Mary, according to St. Louis de Montfort, is to bring believers closer to Jesus Christ. He emphasizes Mary's unique role as the perfect means to unite souls with Christ and to help them grow in holiness and conformity to the will of God. Consecration to Mary: A central aspect of true devotion to Mary is the act of consecration, wherein believers entrust themselves entirely to Mary as their spiritual mother and mediator. St. Louis de Montfort outlines a formal act of consecration that involves renouncing oneself and giving everything to Mary, allowing her to lead and guide one's life. Means of True Devotion: St. Louis de Montfort discusses various practices and means by which believers can express and deepen their devotion to Mary. These include prayer (especially the Rosary), acts of charity, imitation of Mary's virtues, and a spirit of humility and obedience. The Effects of True Devotion: St. Louis de Montfort describes the spiritual benefits that result from true devotion to Mary. These include an increase in grace, a closer union with Christ, protection from spiritual dangers, and an acceleration of one's spiritual growth and transformation. Opposition to True Devotion: St. Louis de Montfort acknowledges that true devotion to Mary may encounter opposition from those who misunderstand or criticize it. He addresses common objections and encourages believers to persevere in their devotion with confidence and trust in Mary's intercession. Overall, "True Devotion to Mary" serves as both a guidebook and a spiritual treatise, offering practical advice and profound insights into the nature of Marian devotion and its transformative power in the lives of believers. It continues to be widely read and revered within the Catholic Church, inspiring countless individuals to deepen their love and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Connecting Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown's writing to that of St. Louis de Montfort involves exploring their respective works on devotion to the Virgin Mary within the context of medieval Christianity. While both authors share a focus on Mary's role as a mediator and guide in the spiritual life of believers, they approach the subject from different perspectives and historical contexts. Here's how we can compare and contrast their writings: Focus on Mary's Role: Both Dr. Brown and St. Louis de Montfort emphasize the significance of Mary in the spiritual life of Christians. They both see Mary as a mediator and intercessor who leads believers closer to Jesus Christ and facilitates their relationship with God. Similarity: Both authors stress the importance of devotion to Mary as a means of deepening one's relationship with God and living a more Christ-centered life. They both advocate for a personal and intimate relationship with Mary as a pathway to spiritual growth. Contrast: While Dr. Brown's work focuses on medieval Christian practices and spirituality, St. Louis de Montfort's writings come from the context of 17th-century France. This difference in historical context influences their perspectives on Mary and the specific devotional practices they emphasize. Devotional Practices: Dr. Brown's analysis of the Hours of the Virgin highlights the significance of liturgical prayers and rituals in medieval devotion to Mary. St. Louis de Montfort, on the other hand, is best known for his promotion of the "Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary" and the practice of Marian consecration. Similarity: Both authors advocate for devotion to Mary as a transformative spiritual practice that shapes the lives of believers. They both see devotion to Mary as a means of deepening one's faith, growing in holiness, and drawing closer to God. Contrast: Dr. Brown's focus on liturgical prayers and the Hours of the Virgin reflects the communal and institutional aspects of medieval Christianity, while St. Louis de Montfort's emphasis on personal consecration highlights the individual's commitment to Mary as a means of spiritual renewal and transformation. Theological Perspectives: While both authors approach devotion to Mary from a deeply theological standpoint, they do so within the theological frameworks of their respective historical periods. Similarity: Both Dr. Brown and St. Louis de Montfort emphasize Mary's role as a model of discipleship and a powerful intercessor who mediates God's grace to humanity. Contrast: Dr. Brown's analysis often focuses on the theological and cultural context of medieval Christianity, exploring the ways in which devotion to Mary intersected with broader theological themes of salvation and redemption. St. Louis de Montfort's writings, on the other hand, reflect the more systematic theological reflections of the Counter-Reformation period, emphasizing Mary's role in the economy of salvation and her cooperation in the work of redemption. The biggest differences between Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown and St. Louis de Montfort lie in their respective backgrounds, areas of focus, and the historical contexts in which they wrote: Background and Context: Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown is a contemporary scholar specializing in medieval history, particularly the intersection of religion, culture, and spirituality in the Middle Ages. Her academic expertise centers on medieval Christianity and the practices of devotion during that period. St. Louis de Montfort, on the other hand, was a French Catholic priest and theologian who lived in the 17th and early 18th centuries. He was deeply involved in the spiritual renewal movement within the Catholic Church, particularly in France during the Counter-Reformation period. Focus of Work: Dr. Brown's work, as exemplified in "Mary and the Art of Prayer," focuses on scholarly analysis and interpretation of medieval Christian practices, particularly devotion to the Virgin Mary. She explores the historical, cultural, and theological dimensions of medieval spirituality, drawing on a wide range of primary sources. St. Louis de Montfort's writings, including "True Devotion to Mary" and "The Secret of the Rosary," are primarily devotional and pastoral in nature. His works are aimed at guiding believers in their spiritual lives and fostering a deeper devotion to the Virgin Mary as a means of growing closer to Jesus Christ. Approach to Marian Devotion: While both Dr. Brown and St. Louis de Montfort emphasize the importance of devotion to the Virgin Mary, they do so from different perspectives and with different emphases. Dr. Brown's analysis of medieval devotion to Mary is rooted in historical research and scholarly interpretation. She examines the cultural and theological significance of practices such as the Hours of the Virgin within the context of medieval Christian spirituality. St. Louis de Montfort's approach to Marian devotion is more pastoral and experiential. He encourages believers to consecrate themselves entirely to Mary and to cultivate a personal relationship with her as a means of deepening their faith and holiness. Historical Context: Dr. Brown's work is situated within the context of medieval Christianity, exploring the practices and beliefs of believers during the Middle Ages. St. Louis de Montfort's writings are influenced by the Counter-Reformation period in France, a time of spiritual renewal and revival within the Catholic Church in response to the challenges of Protestantism. While both Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown and St. Louis de Montfort contribute to the understanding of Marian devotion within the Christian tradition, they do so from distinct perspectives shaped by their respective backgrounds, areas of expertise, and historical contexts. In summary, while Dr. Rachel Fulton Brown and St. Louis de Montfort both explore devotion to Mary within the Christian tradition, they do so from different historical contexts and with different emphases. Dr. Brown's analysis focuses on medieval practices of devotion to Mary, particularly the Hours of the Virgin, while St. Louis de Montfort's writings emphasize personal consecration to Mary as a means of spiritual renewal and growth. Despite these differences, both authors highlight Mary's central role in the spiritual life of believers and her significance as a mediator between humanity and God. So start building your Marian library and all the books of St Mary Louis De Monfort and the Dr Rachel Browns Book are an excellent start! Mary who was conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee! Good Day.

In a world often filled with noise and distractions, the voices of these saints and the timeless words of scripture offer us a beacon of light, guiding us through the complexities of our spiritual journey. Through their teachings, we are invited to explore themes that resonate deeply with the human experience: service, suffering, and surrender. St. Rose of Lima reminds us that the greatest service we can offer to God is to help convert souls, while St. John of the Cross illuminates the transformative power of suffering in our spiritual growth. And in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus himself speaks of the importance of acknowledging Him before others. Now for St. Rose of Lima "Know that the greatest service that man can offer to God is to help convert souls." Breakdown of St. Rose of Lima's Quote from a Traditional Catholic Perspective: Understanding the Importance of Service: In traditional Catholicism, service is considered a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. St. Rose of Lima's quote underscores the significance of service in the context of one's relationship with God. Service is not merely a charitable act but a profound expression of love and devotion to God. The Primacy of the Spiritual: St. Rose highlights that the greatest service one can offer to God is not necessarily through material or temporal means but through the spiritual realm. While acts of charity and kindness are important, the ultimate goal is the salvation of souls, which has eternal significance. The Mission of Evangelization: Central to St. Rose's quote is the concept of evangelization the spreading of the Gospel message and the invitation to embrace the faith. In traditional Catholicism, evangelization is seen as a duty entrusted to all believers, as expressed in Christ's Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). Cooperation with God's Grace: St. Rose's words emphasize the cooperation of human effort with divine grace in the work of conversion. Traditional Catholics believe that while God is the ultimate agent of conversion, He often works through human instruments, inviting believers to participate actively in His saving mission. The Eternal Impact: St. Rose's perspective reminds Catholics of the eternal significance of their actions. Helping to convert souls has implications beyond the temporal realm, as it contributes to the building of God's kingdom and the fulfillment of His divine plan for humanity. Personal Commitment and Sacrifice: St. Rose herself exemplified the spirit of self-sacrifice and devotion to the conversion of souls through her life of prayer, penance, and service. Her quote challenges Catholics to reflect on their own commitment to evangelization and to be willing to make sacrifices for the sake of others' spiritual welfare. In summary, from a traditional Catholic perspective, St. Rose of Lima's quote underscores the primacy of spiritual service, the mission of evangelization, the cooperation with God's grace, and the eternal significance of helping to convert souls. It calls believers to active engagement in the work of salvation and reminds them of the transformative power of their actions in God's plan for humanity. Lets transition to St John of the Cross who said: "There is another reason also why the soul has traveled safely in this obscurity; it has suffered: for the way of suffering is safer, and also more profitable, than that of rejoicing and of action. In suffering God gives strength, but in action and in joy the soul does but show its own weakness and imperfections. And in suffering, the soul practices and acquires virtue, and becomes pure, wiser, and more cautious." —St. John of the Cross Breakdown of St. John of the Cross's Quote from a Traditional Catholic Perspective: The Role of Suffering in the Spiritual Journey: St. John of the Cross, a renowned mystic and Doctor of the Church, emphasizes the significance of suffering in the soul's journey towards God. Traditional Catholicism holds that suffering is not merely a consequence of human existence but a means by which God purifies, strengthens, and sanctifies the soul. The Safer Path of Suffering: St. John suggests that the path of suffering is safer for the soul compared to paths characterized by rejoicing and action. This viewpoint is rooted in the understanding that suffering, when embraced with faith and humility, can lead to spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. Strength and Virtue Through Suffering: In suffering, St. John asserts, God provides strength to the soul. Traditional Catholic theology teaches that through the experience of suffering, individuals have the opportunity to unite their sufferings with those of Christ and participate in His redemptive work. Additionally, suffering serves as a means for the soul to practice and acquire virtue, leading to spiritual maturity and holiness. Humility and Recognition of Weakness: St. John contrasts suffering with rejoicing and action, suggesting that in moments of joy and activity, the soul may be more prone to pride and self-reliance. Suffering, on the other hand, humbles the soul, leading it to acknowledge its own weakness and imperfections before God. Purification and Transformation: Through suffering, the soul undergoes a process of purification, becoming increasingly pure, wiser, and more cautious. Traditional Catholic theology teaches that suffering can strip away attachments to worldly desires and purify the soul, enabling it to more fully reflect the image of Christ. The Example of Christ: St. John's perspective on suffering aligns with the Catholic understanding of Christ's own redemptive suffering. Just as Christ endured suffering for the sake of humanity's salvation, believers are called to embrace their own crosses and unite them with Christ's sacrifice for the redemption of the world. In summary, from a traditional Catholic perspective, St. John of the Cross's quote underscores the transformative power of suffering in the spiritual life. It highlights suffering as a means by which God strengthens, purifies, and sanctifies the soul, leading it to greater virtue, humility, and intimacy with God. And now lets wrap up this episode with a scripture verse. "Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father." — Matthew 10:32-33 Breakdown of Matthew 10:32-33 from a Traditional Catholic Perspective: Acknowledging Christ before Others: This passage emphasizes the importance of openly professing one's faith in Jesus Christ. From a traditional Catholic perspective, acknowledging Christ before others involves not only verbal proclamation but also living a life that reflects Christ's teachings and values. It implies a willingness to publicly identify as a follower of Christ, regardless of the potential challenges or persecution that may arise. Acknowledgment before the Heavenly Father: By acknowledging Christ before others, believers can expect Christ to acknowledge them before the heavenly Father. This implies a profound spiritual reality: those who openly profess their faith in Christ will receive recognition and acceptance from God Himself. In traditional Catholic theology, this acknowledgment before the Father is linked to the believer's salvation and eternal destiny. Denying Christ before Others: Conversely, denying Christ before others carries grave consequences. From a traditional Catholic perspective, denying Christ can take various forms, including renouncing one's faith under pressure, remaining silent when given the opportunity to speak up for Christ, or living in a manner inconsistent with Christian values. Such actions not only betray one's relationship with Christ but also jeopardize one's salvation. Denial before the Heavenly Father: The consequence of denying Christ before others is that Christ will deny the individual before the heavenly Father. This rejection before God underscores the seriousness of failing to acknowledge Christ publicly. In traditional Catholic teaching, this denial before the Father implies the loss of salvation and eternal separation from God. The Call to Witness: This passage serves as a call to courageous witness and fidelity to Christ. From a traditional Catholic perspective, it reminds believers of their responsibility to bear witness to the Gospel message in their words, actions, and way of life. It challenges them to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of opposition or persecution, knowing that their ultimate allegiance is to Christ and His kingdom. The Assurance of Divine Recognition: Conversely, the passage offers assurance to those who faithfully acknowledge Christ before others. They can trust that Christ will acknowledge them before the heavenly Father, securing their place in the eternal kingdom. This promise serves as a source of encouragement and strength for believers as they navigate the challenges of living out their faith in the world. In summary, Matthew 10:32-33, from a traditional Catholic perspective, underscores the importance of boldly professing one's faith in Christ, the serious consequences of denying Him, and the assurance of divine recognition for those who remain faithful in their witness. It serves as a call to courageous discipleship and fidelity to Christ in all aspects of life. As we conclude our journey through the profound insights of St. Rose of Lima, St. John of the Cross, and the scripture reading from the Gospel of Matthew, we are reminded of the timeless truths that illuminate our path of faith. From St. Rose of Lima, we learn that the greatest service we can offer to God is to help convert souls. In embracing this call to evangelization, we participate in God's divine plan for the salvation of humanity, recognizing that our efforts, no matter how small, have eternal significance. St. John of the Cross deepens our understanding of the role of suffering in the spiritual life. He teaches us that in embracing the way of suffering, we find strength, purification, and transformation. Through our willingness to endure hardships for the sake of Christ, we grow in virtue, humility, and intimacy with God. In the scripture reading from Matthew, Jesus Himself speaks to us, urging us to acknowledge Him before others. He reminds us of the importance of courageous witness and fidelity to our faith, knowing that our acknowledgment of Him carries eternal consequences. Together, these teachings form a tapestry of wisdom, guiding us in our journey of faith. They challenge us to live lives of service, to embrace suffering with courage and humility, and to boldly proclaim our allegiance to Christ before the world. As we reflect on the words of these saints and the scripture passage, may we be inspired to deepen our commitment to Christ, to live lives of love and service, and to walk the path of discipleship with unwavering faith. And may we always remember that in acknowledging Christ before others, we secure for ourselves the greatest acknowledgment of all—the recognition and acceptance of our Heavenly Father. May our hearts be strengthened, our spirits lifted, and our resolve fortified as we continue to journey onward, guided by the light of faith and the promise of eternal life. Now take all this wonderful wisdom you just gained and go out and convert somebody. Good day!

A Catechism of Christian Doctrine, Prepared and Enjoined by Order of the Third Council of Baltimore, or simply the Baltimore Catechism, was the national Catholic catechism for children in the United States, based on Robert Bellarmine's 1614 Small Catechism. The first such catechism written for Catholics in North America, it was the standard Catholic school text in the country from 1885 to the late 1960s. From its publication, however, there were calls to revise it, and many other catechisms were used during this period.[2] It was officially replaced by the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults in 2004, based on the revised universal Catechism of the Catholic Church. In response to a personal copyright taken out by Bishop John Lancaster Spalding, various editions include annotations or other modifications. While the approved text had to remain the same in the catechisms, by adding maps, glossaries or definitions publishers could copyright and sell their own version of the catechism. The Baltimore Catechism was widely used in many Catholic schools until many moved away from catechism-based education, though it is still used in some. In the nineteenth century, repeated efforts had been made in the United States towards an arrangement by which a uniform textbook of Christian doctrine might be used by all Catholics.[4] As early as 1829, the bishops assembled in the First Provincial Council of Baltimore decreed: "A catechism shall be written which is better adapted to the circumstances of this Province; it shall give the Christian Doctrine as explained in Cardinal Bellarmine's Catechism (1597), and when approved by the Holy See, it shall be published for the common use of Catholics" (Decr. xxxiii). The clause recommending Bellarmine's catechism as a model was added at the special request of the Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith. Bellarmine's Small Catechism, Italian text with English translation, was published in Boston in 1853. The wish of the bishops was not carried out and the First and Second Plenary Councils of Baltimore (1852 and 1866) repeated the decree of 1829. In the Third Plenary Council (1884) many bishops were in favor of a "revised" edition of a 1775 catechism by Archbishop Butler from Ireland, but finally the matter was given into the hands of a committee of six bishops. At last, in 1885, was issued A Catechism of Christian Doctrine, Prepared and Enjoined by Order of the Third Council of Baltimore. The council had desired a catechism "perfect in every respect" (Acta et Decr., p. 219). Nearly every U.S. bishop gave the new national catechism his official approbation and many schools adopted it, but it also received considerable criticism. In 1895, only ten years after publication, the American archbishops began a process of revision, but this was abandoned due to a lack of consensus. Between 1885 and 1941 over 100 other Catholic catechetical manuals were published in America with official imprimaturs, although none was as widely used as the "Baltimore Catechism".

Join us in this episode as we delve into the profound themes of devotion, recognition of the Divine presence, and perseverance through the lens of traditional Catholic spirituality. Drawing inspiration from the wisdom of St. Maximilian Kolbe, reflections on the Holy Eucharist, and the steadfast faith outlined in the book of Hebrews, we explore how these principles shape our spiritual journey in the traditional Catholic context. “Be a Catholic: When you kneel before an altar, do it in such a way that others may be able to recognize that you know before whom you kneel." — St. Maximilian Kolbe Let's break down this quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Be a Catholic": St. Maximilian Kolbe begins by calling on Catholics to embody their faith, not just through words but through actions and demeanor. "When you kneel before an altar": This refers to the act of kneeling before the altar, which is a common gesture of reverence and worship in Catholic tradition, especially during Mass and Eucharistic adoration. "Do it in such a way": St. Maximilian emphasizes the importance of intentionality and mindfulness in our actions. It's not merely about going through the motions but about doing so with purpose and sincerity. "That others may be able to recognize": Here, St. Maximilian suggests that our actions should be visible manifestations of our faith. Others should be able to perceive the depth of our reverence and devotion by observing our conduct. "That you know before whom you kneel": The ultimate aim of our reverence before the altar is to acknowledge and honor the presence of God. By kneeling before the altar, we are acknowledging the divine presence in the Eucharist, recognizing that we are in the presence of the Lord Himself. In summary, St. Maximilian Kolbe's quote underscores the importance of authenticity and reverence in Catholic worship. It challenges Catholics to approach the altar with a deep sense of awareness and humility, allowing their actions to reflect their profound understanding of the sacredness of the Eucharist and the presence of God. Now lets transition to Edward Healy but first let me explain who he is: Edward Healy (1818–1900) was an Irish Catholic priest and theologian known for his writings and devotion to St. Joseph. While there is limited information available about Healy's personal life, his contributions to Catholic literature, particularly his writings on St. Joseph, have left a lasting impact on Catholic spirituality. Healy was born in Ireland in 1818, during a time of significant religious and political turmoil in the country. He likely received his early education in Ireland before pursuing studies in theology and philosophy, possibly at a seminary or religious institution. Throughout his life, Healy maintained a deep devotion to St. Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus Christ and the patron saint of the Universal Church. He found inspiration in St. Joseph's humility, faithfulness, and role as the guardian of the Holy Family. This devotion to St. Joseph influenced much of Healy's theological reflections and writings. One of Healy's notable works is his writing on the Eucharistic devotion of St. Joseph. In his writings, Healy explored the profound spiritual sensitivity of St. Joseph and his awareness of the presence of Christ in Mary as His living tabernacle. This theme reflects a deep understanding of Catholic theology and devotion to the Eucharist, emphasizing the sacredness of Christ's presence in the Blessed Sacrament. Healy's writings on St. Joseph continue to be cherished by Catholics seeking to deepen their understanding of this beloved saint and to cultivate a closer relationship with him. While Healy's life story may not be extensively documented, his legacy lives on through his contributions to Catholic literature and spirituality, particularly in the realm of devotion to St. Joseph. "If favored souls are sometimes sensibly conscious of the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in our churches, how much more must holy Joseph, whose spiritual senses were so delicate and refined, have felt his heart burn within him with divine charity, from the nearness of Him who now dwelt in Mary as His living tabernacle!" Edward Healy let's break down Edward Healy's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "If favored souls are sometimes sensibly conscious of the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in our churches": Healy begins by acknowledging that some individuals, whom he refers to as "favored souls," are able to perceive the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in a tangible or sensory way during times of prayer or worship in church. This could refer to experiences of profound spiritual consolation, awareness of the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, or other mystical experiences associated with the sacraments. "How much more must holy Joseph": Healy then turns his attention to St. Joseph, emphasizing the extraordinary holiness and spiritual sensitivity of this saint. "Whose spiritual senses were so delicate and refined": Healy highlights St. Joseph's spiritual qualities, suggesting that Joseph possessed a heightened awareness and sensitivity to the divine. This underscores St. Joseph's deep spiritual life and close union with God. "Have felt his heart burn within him with divine charity": Healy imagines the profound effect that the presence of Christ, whom St. Joseph cared for and protected in his earthly life, would have had on Joseph's heart. The phrase "heart burn within him" suggests a deep, intense feeling of love and devotion, akin to the burning love experienced by the disciples on the road to Emmaus when they recognized Jesus in the breaking of the bread (Luke 24:32). "From the nearness of Him who now dwelt in Mary as His living tabernacle": Healy concludes by emphasizing the unique relationship between St. Joseph, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Jesus. He portrays Mary as the living tabernacle of Christ, emphasizing the intimacy of Christ's presence within the Holy Family and the profound spiritual communion shared by Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. In summary, Healy's quote invites us to contemplate the extraordinary spiritual sensitivity and devotion of St. Joseph, imagining the depth of his experience in the presence of Christ, who dwelt within Mary as His living tabernacle. It encourages us to deepen our own reverence for the Eucharist and to seek to emulate the holiness and devotion of St. Joseph in our own lives. Now lets wrap it up with scripture. "Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners, in order that you may not grow weary and lose heart." — Hebrews 12:3 In traditional Catholic interpretation, this scripture from Hebrews 12:3 speaks to the endurance and perseverance of Jesus Christ in the face of opposition and sin. Here's a breakdown: "Consider how he endured such opposition from sinners": This part highlights the endurance of Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry, particularly in facing opposition from those who opposed his teachings, questioned his authority, and ultimately played a role in his crucifixion. It underscores the depth of hostility and resistance he faced from those who were entrenched in sin. "In order that you may not grow weary": This part addresses the readers, encouraging them to reflect on Christ's endurance as a source of inspiration and strength. By contemplating Christ's perseverance in the face of adversity, believers are reminded not to become weary or discouraged in their own faith journeys, especially when encountering trials and challenges. "And lose heart": Losing heart implies giving up or losing faith in the midst of difficulties. The verse warns against allowing weariness or discouragement to lead to a loss of faith or resolve. Instead, believers are encouraged to draw strength from Christ's example and remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that endurance leads to spiritual growth and eventual victory. Overall, this scripture passage serves as a call to endurance, reminding believers to persevere in their faith despite opposition or trials, and to draw strength from the example of Jesus Christ who endured all things for the sake of humanity's salvation. As we reflect on these teachings, let us strive to live out our Catholic faith with authenticity, reverence, and perseverance. May our actions bear witness to our deep love for God and our commitment to following Christ, even in the midst of challenges and opposition. In closing, let us remember the words of St. Paul to the Corinthians: "Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58). May God bless you abundantly on your journey of faith. Amen. Now go out and convert somebody. Good day.

"Mary and the art of Prayer" https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Art-Prayer-Medieval-Christian-ebook Dr. Rachel Brown concentrate's on the ideas and practices by which medieval women and men formed themselves through reading, prayer, meditation, and worship. Her goal is to discover a way to help modern readers “get inside” these practices so as to see the world the way in which medieval Christians did, as a creature of God into which God as Maker entered so that the world itself might be remade. She reads books that no one else have figured out how to read, either because the ideas in them seem boring or because everyone assumes that we already know what they say but we don’t. Rachel teaches courses in which she encourages students to imagine the thoughts and experiences of men and women of the past “from within,” whether through close study of the primary sources or through research projects that enable them to write their own stories or make their own works of art. Some of the things she has have written about is commentaries on the Song of Songs in which the bride is identified as the Virgin Mary and the bridegroom as Christ; liturgies for the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin; prayers to the Virgin Mary and Christ; fears surrounding the year 1000; the doctrine of the Real Presence in the Eucharist; flowers as surfaces for prayer; sweetness as an experience of the divine; counted prayers; the theology of the Trinity and the importance of the Holy Spirit in twelfth-century devotion to the humanity of Christ; exercises for training the attention in prayer; Hildegard of Bingen’s theology of revelation; Anselm of Canterbury’s prayers to the saints; Francis of Assisi’s Office of the Passion; how to read the Psalms. She has had talk's around the Office of the Virgin Mary; books of Hours; commentaries on the names of Mary found in the Old Testament, particularly the Psalms; Mary as a model of human creativity. Some of the things that she is currently researching are: training the soul in virtue; the psychological bases for the doctrine of the Seven Deadly Sins; the growth of cities and their relationship to prayer; how saying the Psalms in honor of the Virgin Mary gives birth to understanding and joy. So it was with great pleasure that I was able to have a dear friend, Nick Chapello actually lead the interview and allow me to just produce this episode. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Novena to St Gianna Beretta: https://www.praymorenovenas.com/st-gianna-beretta-molla-novena/947868?utm_source=mailto Archbishop Lefebvre: A Documentary - Full Movie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cf9oy7wDkms Welcome to another episode of CR where we explore delve into the profound wisdom of saints and scripture, uncovering the transformative power of grace and the divine revelation inherent in creation. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque once said, "One just soul can obtain pardon for a thousand sinners." These words point to the essence of redemption, highlighting the profound impact of individual holiness on the salvation of others. In a world often overshadowed by sin and despair, the radiance of a single virtuous soul can illuminate the path to reconciliation and mercy. From a traditional Catholic perspective, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque's quote emphasizes the profound significance of holiness and the redemptive power of grace. Here's a breakdown of its key components: "One just soul": This refers to an individual who is righteous, virtuous, and in a state of grace. In Catholic theology, a just soul is one that is in harmony with God's will, living according to the teachings of the Church and striving for holiness. "Can obtain pardon": This highlights the role of intercessory prayer and meritorious actions in obtaining forgiveness for others. In Catholic belief, the prayers and good deeds of the faithful can have a salvific effect, contributing to the spiritual well-being and salvation of others. "For a thousand sinners": This suggests the expansive reach of the influence of a single just soul. Through their prayers, sacrifices, and example, a righteous individual can potentially impact the lives of numerous others, leading them to repentance, conversion, and reconciliation with God. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this quote underscores the interconnectedness of the mystical body of Christ, wherein the holiness of one member can benefit the entire community of believers. It also highlights the importance of personal holiness and the responsibility of the faithful to pray for the conversion and salvation of others. Ultimately, it reflects the hopeful message of God's mercy and the transformative power of grace in the lives of sinners. Now let’s consider the life of St. Francis of Assisi, whose radical embrace of poverty and humility ignited a spiritual revolution that continues to inspire millions today. Through his selfless devotion to God and love for all creatures, St. Francis became a beacon of hope, drawing countless souls closer to the heart of Christ. His example reminds us that authentic holiness is contagious, spreading like wildfire through the darkest corners of humanity. "Creation itself is a silent word of God. The wordless beauty of nature displays before our eyes the manifold riches of a Father who is ceaselessly present among men. This divine speech is not audible to ears that are too human; nevertheless, it is the most profound speech of all. The sun, the moon, and the stars are absolutely silent to our ears, but they are a word and a message essential to our earthly existence. There is a language of the stars that we can neither know nor comprehend but that God understands perfectly." –Robert Cardinal Sarah, Here's a breakdown of its key components: "Creation itself is a silent word of God": This phrase underscores the belief that the natural world, in its beauty, complexity, and order, serves as a reflection of the divine Creator. In Catholic theology, God's handiwork in creation reveals His existence, wisdom, and goodness to humanity. "The wordless beauty of nature displays before our eyes the manifold riches of a Father who is ceaselessly present among men": Here, Cardinal Sarah emphasizes that the beauty and richness of nature serve as a testament to God's ongoing presence and providential care for humanity. Through the marvels of creation, God communicates His love and generosity to His children. "This divine speech is not audible to ears that are too human; nevertheless, it is the most profound speech of all": Cardinal Sarah acknowledges that while the message of creation may not be heard with literal ears, it speaks to the deepest dimensions of the human soul. The beauty and majesty of nature convey profound truths about the Creator and His relationship with His creation. "The sun, the moon, and the stars are absolutely silent to our ears, but they are a word and a message essential to our earthly existence": This highlights the significance of celestial bodies as part of God's creation, each playing a role in sustaining life on Earth. Despite their silence, they communicate essential truths about the order and harmony of the cosmos, reflecting God's divine wisdom. "There is a language of the stars that we can neither know nor comprehend but that God understands perfectly": Cardinal Sarah suggests that there are mysteries within creation that surpass human understanding. While we may marvel at the beauty of the stars and the cosmos, their deeper significance and purpose remain known only to God. From a traditional Catholic perspective, Cardinal Sarah's quote underscores the importance of recognizing and reverencing God's presence and wisdom as revealed in the natural world. It invites believers to contemplate the beauty of creation as a means of encountering the Creator Himself and deepening their appreciation for His ongoing work in the world. But how does the silent beauty of creation echo the voice of God, as described by Robert Cardinal Sarah? The natural world, with its majestic landscapes and celestial wonders, serves as a silent witness to the divine presence among us. From the shimmering stars above to the gentle whisper of the wind, every aspect of creation speaks of God's boundless love and providential care. Yet, as Cardinal Sarah emphasizes, this divine speech often eludes our finite understanding. We may gaze upon the heavens with awe and wonder, but the true depth of their message remains veiled to our human perception. It is a language understood only by the Creator Himself, a language of love and transcendence that transcends the limits of our comprehension. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus declares, "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known." These words serve as a solemn reminder of the inevitable reckoning that awaits us all. No deed done in darkness, no word spoken in secret, will escape the penetrating light of divine truth. "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops." — Luke 12:2-3 This quote from the Gospel of Luke, spoken by Jesus Himself, holds profound significance in traditional Catholic theology. Here's a breakdown of its key components: "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known": This statement emphasizes the inevitability of accountability before God. In Catholic belief, every action, thought, and intention of the heart is known to God, and nothing can remain hidden from His omniscient gaze. This reflects the theological concept of divine omniscience, wherein God's knowledge encompasses all things, including the secrets of every individual. "Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light": Jesus underscores the idea that even the most hidden deeds and words will be brought to light and exposed before God's judgment. This highlights the importance of sincerity, honesty, and integrity in one's actions and speech, as they will ultimately be revealed and scrutinized in the light of divine truth. "And what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops": This imagery emphasizes the thoroughness of God's judgment and the impossibility of evading accountability. No secret conversation or hidden intention will escape His scrutiny, and even the most private thoughts and deeds will be made known to all. This serves as a sobering reminder of the universal nature of divine justice and the impartiality of God's judgment. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this passage underscores the importance of living a life of integrity, authenticity, and transparency before God. It calls believers to examine their hearts and actions, knowing that nothing can escape the scrutiny of divine justice. Ultimately, it highlights the need for repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God, who sees and knows all things. Yet, in this message of accountability lies the promise of redemption. For even our most hidden sins and deepest regrets are known to God, who in His infinite mercy offers forgiveness to all who seek it. It is through the transformative power of grace that our darkest secrets are brought into the light, purified and redeemed by the blood of Christ. As we journey through life, may we strive to be that just soul, whose prayers and sacrifices obtain pardon for countless sinners. May we listen attentively to the silent word of God spoken through creation, recognizing His presence in every sunrise, every whispering breeze. And may we never forget the words of Jesus, who assures us that nothing remains hidden forever, but that through His mercy, all things are made new. Thank you for joining me. Until next time, may God bless you and keep you in His loving care. Now go convert somebody.

"The sacrament of Holy Orders will be ridiculed, oppressed and despised, for in this both the Church and God Himself are oppressed and reviled since He is represented by priests. The devil will try to persecute the ministers of the Lord in every way, and he will labor with cruel and subtle astuteness to deviate them from the spirit of their vocation, corrupting many of them. These corrupted priests, who will scandalize the Christian people, will incite the hatred of the bad Christians and the enemies of the Roman, Catholic and Apostolic Church to fall upon all priests. This apparent triumph of Satan will bring enormous sufferings upon the good pastors of the Church... Moreover, in these unhappy times, there will be unbridled luxury which, acting thus to snare the rest into sin, will conquer innumerable frivolous souls who will be lost. Innocence will almost no longer be found in children, nor modesty in women, and in this supreme moment of need of the Church, those who should speak will fall silent." – Our Lady of Good Success 1594 Forward In 2012, while collaborating with a French group interested in producing a film about Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, I authored a script blending fiction and non-fiction (Faction) in the vein of Malachi Martin. However, the group opted for a documentary format over a feature film and dismissed my script due to its unconventional hybrid style and extensive length of 250 pages. I set the script aside for future consideration. Recent events, including Pope Francis' apostolic letter "Motu Proprio" Traditionis Custodes on July 16, 2021, prompted me to revisit the material and transform it into a book titled "Marcel: The Remnant," inspired by relevant scripture passages: Isaiah 10:20-22: "And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and they that shall escape of the house of Jacob, shall lean no more upon him that striketh them: but they shall lean upon the Lord the Holy One of Israel, in truth. The remnant shall be converted, the remnant, I say, of Jacob, to the mighty God. For if thy people, O Israel, shall be as the sand of the sea, a remnant of them shall be converted, the consumption abridged shall overflow with justice." Jeremiah 23:3: "And I will gather together the remnant of my flock out of all the lands into which I have cast them out: and I will make them return to their own fields, and they shall increase and be multiplied." Romans 9:27-29: "And Isaias cried out concerning Israel: If the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved. For he shall finish his word and cut it short in justice: because a short word shall the Lord make upon the earth. And as Isaias foretold: Unless the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been made as Sodom and we had been like unto Gomorrha." Revelation 12:17: "And the dragon was angry against the woman: and went to make war with the rest of her seed, who keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ."   Introduction “That Mass of St. Pius V like one sees at Ecône has become the symbol for the condemnation of the Council. I will in no wise accept the Council being condemned by a symbol. If an exception were made, the whole Council would be questioned, and consequently the Apostolic authority of the Council.” - Pope Paul VI In the swirling currents of ecclesiastical discourse, there are moments when the weight of words transcends their mere utterance, becoming markers of profound shifts in theological landscapes. Such is the case with the poignant reflections of Pope Paul VI, encapsulated in the quote that opens this volume. With uncompromising clarity, Paul VI delineates a fault line that cuts through the heart of Catholic tradition. A fault line marked by the juxtaposition of the venerable Mass of St. Pius V and the transformative ethos of the Second Vatican Council. Paul VI words, though uttered decades ago, reverberate with a prescience that pierces through the veil of time, inviting us to confront the fundamental questions that lie at the intersection of tradition and innovation. In these pages, we embark on a journey of introspection and inquiry, guided by the incisive analysis of the author. Through meticulous examination, they unveil the implicit symbolism inherent in the juxtaposition of the Old Mass and the Council a symbolism that lays bare the tensions between continuity and change, preservation, and progress. As we navigate the turbulent waters of theological discourse, the author beckons us to confront uncomfortable truths and interrogate cherished assumptions. What does it mean to safeguard the Mass of all time while embracing the spirit that seeks to dismantle it? Can we reconcile the irreconcilable, or are we fated to grapple with the paradoxes that define our faith? Drawing upon the life of Archbishop Lefebvre, the author invites us to confront these questions with intellectual rigor and spiritual honesty. For in the crucible of inquiry lies the promise of deeper understanding and a renewed commitment to the timeless truths that anchor our faith. In an age marked by division and uncertainty, this volume stands as a beacon of clarity a testament to the enduring power of dialogue and discernment in the pursuit of truth. May its pages inspire us to embark on our own journeys of discovery, guided by the light of tradition and the courage to confront the challenges of our time. The Motu Proprio The sun beat down upon St. Peter's Square as Pope Benedict XVI stood before a gathering of faithful, his voice resolute as he delivered his decree, the Motu Proprio, "Summorum Pontificum". The date, July 17, 2007, marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church since Vatican II. The Vatican reporter, stationed amidst the crowd, relayed the events to the world. Questions lingered in the air, swirling like the breeze that swept through the square. "Why would the Pope issue such a decree?" the reporter inquired, seeking clarity from Fr. Swartz, a Roman Catholic priest. Fr. Swartz, his expression grave, explained, "The move by the Pope has raised concerns about reviving parts of the old liturgy that Jews consider anti-Semitic, gays consider homophobic, women consider sexist, dwarves consider anti-dwarfic, and priests consider too difficult to learn." The tension simmered as Fr. Swartz continued, shedding light on the discontent brewing among clergy and faithful alike. The publication of the Motu Proprio, accompanied by a letter from the Pope, left many questioning the motives behind the revival of the Latin Mass. As Fr. Swartz spoke, Fr. Gabrielli and Fr. Jaeger, two priests from different generations, Fr. Gabrielli age 80 and Fr. Jaeger age 28, walked away from the square, engaging in a dialogue that hinted at deeper mysteries and long-standing traditions. Fr. Jaeger asked Fr. Gabriele what he knew about a prelate named Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre whom everyone credits for the Pope’s turn back to the Traditional Mass. Fr. Gabriele asked if he had the time for the complete story and if so they should sit at a nearby café since it will take a while. Fr. Jaeger responded that he absolutely had time but insisted he would pay for the meal and drinks. Fr. Gabriele agreed and started by going back to the early life of Archbishop Lefebvre during the first world war when Marcel was still a child. Then Fr. Gabriele started the story as they walked to the café. He began explaining how Marcels father, Rene, needed to leave immediately in the war effort. Chapter 1: The Departure of Rene Lefebvre "How will we keep in touch, what should I do if I need to contact you?" Marcels mother Gabrielle Lefebvre's said as voice trembled with concern as she faced her husband, Rene Lefebvre Sr. "I will have an intelligence officer relay messages between us," Rene assured her. The servants started to bring the children into the living room, where they gathered around the statue of the Blessed Mother. Marcel rushed over to start lighting the candles, a task he took on with reverence. "Marcel, tonight you will lead the Rosary," Rene instructed his son. "I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth," Marcel began, his voice steady despite the weight of impending change. Rene Sr. opened his door and called out to Franz Neumann, his trusted foreman, for a meeting. The hum of the loom machines filled the air as Franz made his way up the stairs to Rene's office, concern etched on his face. "Franz, I need to speak to you about a transition plan," Rene stated as Franz entered the room. "What transition? Are we closing the factory?" Franz's voice betrayed his worry. "No, Franz, my transition. I will need to leave town indefinitely, and you are my most trusted foreman," Rene explained. Gabrielle watched from a distance as Rene and Franz discussed the future of the factory. Her heart weighed heavily with the impending departure of her husband. As Rene bid farewell to Franz and headed towards the front door, Gabrielle approached him with tears in her eyes. "Rene, my prayers are with you. Please do all you can to stay safe and come back to us," Gabrielle pleaded. "I will come back. I have the Blessed Mother watching over me and my family. Stay strong," Rene reassured her before stepping into the waiting car. The war raged on, and the men of Tourcoing Nord answered the call to arms, leaving behind their families and livelihoods. Gabrielle stood among the women; her gaze steady as she offered comfort to those in need. "Mrs. Lefebvre, what do all the mothers do for work as their husbands are called into service? What will they live on?" Mrs. Neumann's voice quivered with uncertainty. Gabrielle paused, gathering her thoughts before responding with strength and compassion. "Let the future happen. We will do what we can. The rest is in God's hands. Be strong if not for yourself, then for the other women and your family. They are watching," Gabrielle encouraged. As Marcel burst into Rene Sr.'s office, the weight of the world seemed to press upon Gabrielle's shoulders. Yet, in the midst of uncertainty, she found solace in her faith and resolved to carry on in the face of adversity. Chapter 2: Occupation and Defiance In the quiet town of Tourcoing Nord, France, the rumblings of war had become an ever-present backdrop to daily life. Gabrielle Lefebvre, the owner of a bustling textile factory, navigated the streets with a sense of unease as fighting soldiers and their prisoners trudged through town. The arrival of German forces brought an abrupt change as helmets gleamed in the sunlight and lances loomed ominously overhead. Gabrielle's concern deepened as German officers corralled the townspeople into the square, issuing orders with an air of authority. Stepping forward from her factory, she confronted a particularly imposing officer, her worry evident on her face. Her inquiry about the fate of her employees was met with a curt response, leaving her with more questions than answers. As German control tightened its grip on Tourcoing Nord, Gabrielle's resolve to resist grew stronger. In a daring act of defiance, she concealed wool in the walls of her factory, determined to protect her livelihood and her workers from the German war machine. Tensions simmered as German patrols prowled the streets, searching for any signs of dissent. When the inevitable discovery of the hidden wool led to Gabrielle's arrest, her courage only seemed to intensify. Even as she faced interrogation and imprisonment, her spirit remained unbroken. Meanwhile, Marcel, her son, grappled with the harsh realities of life under occupation, his determination to carry on his mother's fight fueling his every action. As the war dragged on, the Lefebvre family found themselves caught in the maelstrom of conflict. With Gabrielle imprisoned, Marcel and his siblings faced a daily struggle for survival, their resilience tested at every turn. Despite the hardships, they clung to hope, drawing strength from their faith and their unwavering belief in justice. In the face of adversity, Marcel emerged as a beacon of hope for his family and their community. His courage inspired others to resist the occupation, even as the specter of German reprisals loomed large. Through acts of kindness and defiance, he kept alive the flame of hope that one day, freedom would return to Tourcoing Nord. As the tide of war turned and the Allies advanced, the people of Tourcoing Nord dared to dream of liberation. When the long-awaited day finally arrived, it brought with it a sense of jubilation and relief. For Gabrielle, released from her prison cell, it was a moment of bittersweet triumph as she reunited with her family, her spirit unbroken by the trials of war. As Marcel looked to the future, he knew that the struggle was far from over. But with the war behind them, he could finally pursue his dream of becoming a priest, following in the footsteps of his mother's unwavering faith. Together, the Lefebvre family stood as a testament to the power of resilience, courage, and hope in the face of adversity. Chapter 3: Choosing the Path: Embracing the Journey Marcel Lefebvre sat opposite his father, Rene, in their modest home in Tourcoing Nord, France. The weight of his father's expectations hung heavy in the air as they discussed Marcel's future. Rene, a staunch traditionalist, urged Marcel to pursue a path he deemed more suitable a journey to Rome, to study at the prestigious Gregorian University and become a priest. "I am not like Rene," Marcel protested, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "I am not as intellectual, and all the studies are in Latin. To go there? Take courses at the Gregorian University, pass difficult examinations? No, Father, I want to stay in the Diocese." Rene, firm in his convictions, countered Marcel's objections with a warning about the perceived liberalism of the diocesan priesthood. "Marcel, this is probably the last time I will instruct you on what to do with your life," he declared. "I cannot approve of you to become a Diocesan priest. They are way too liberal and progressive." Gabrielle, Marcel's mother, added her voice to the conversation, invoking divine providence and pointing to the wartime circumstances that had led Marcel's brother to the French seminary in Rome. "Marcel, you should listen to your father," she urged. "It was meant to be that you join your brother." With a mixture of resignation and determination, Marcel finally relented. "Children, I guess I am off to Rome," he announced, attempting to lighten the mood with a touch of humor. "Arrivederci Tourcoing Nord!" Marcel's journey to Rome marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one filled with challenges, revelations, and moments of profound learning. At the Collège Français in Rome, under the guidance of Fr. Henri Le Froch, Marcel delved into his studies with a sense of purpose. Rene Sr.'s visit to Rome offered Marcel a chance to reflect on his progress and the significance of his chosen path. Walking to the seminary grounds with his father, Marcel spoke of his growing understanding of the importance of proper formation. "Fr. Le Froch and the professors teach us how we should view current events, expose errors to us," Marcel explained. "It is a wonderful formation." Rene Sr., impressed by Marcel's commitment to his studies, shared insights into the role of tradition and the teachings of the Church in shaping the path of a priest. "Marcel, Pope Pius X became a Saint because without a doubt all who knew him knew his traditionalism was that of Christ," Rene Sr. emphasized. "His constant formation and teaching of priests was to make certain this world would not be able to fool them into believing that modernism or humanism was the way of the Catholic Church." Marcel, deeply moved by his father's words, expressed his desire to uphold the truth and stand firm in his convictions. "Our Lord himself also proclaimed the truth," Marcel declared. "Father, I hope I can speak that type of truth always." Chapter 4: Transformation: A Priest's Conviction As Marcel's journey continued, he found himself increasingly drawn to the rich history and missionary work of the Spiritans. Inspired by their dedication to serving the marginalized and spreading the gospel, Marcel felt a calling to join their ranks. "To gain that which is worth having, it will be necessary to lose everything else," Rene Sr. reminded Marcel, echoing the challenges inherent in following one's true calling. "How is your health? How are you eating? How are you sleeping?" Marcel assured his father of his well-being, but beneath the surface, a sense of uncertainty lingered. "Marcel, don’t worry, sleep well and put much in God's hands," Rene Sr. advised, his concern evident in his eyes. As Marcel continued to navigate the complexities of his journey, he grappled with the realities of military service and the unexpected twists of fate that awaited him. With each step, he drew closer to uncovering his true purpose and embracing the path that lay ahead. The warm embrace of Rome enveloped Marcel Lefebvre as he stood before Cardinal Basilio Pompilj, awaiting ordination. The grandeur of St. John Lateran Cathedral echoed the solemnity of the occasion. Marcel's father, Rene Lefebvre Sr., and his brother Rene Jr. watched with pride as he took his vows, committing his life to the service of God. As they exited the cathedral, a sense of familial joy permeated the air. Rene Sr. reflected on the significance of the moment, cherishing the sight of his two sons dedicating themselves to the priesthood. Yet, beneath his pride lay a solemn truth the erosion of faith in their beloved France. "Father, what does this say about our beloved France if we cannot trust our own Government?" Marcel inquired; his voice tinged with concern. Rene Sr. paused; his gaze fixed on the horizon. "Marcel, I am sure you and Rene were kidded to some extent about your Father being a Monarchist," he began, his tone measured. "We never paid much attention," Rene Jr. chimed in. "True," Marcel acknowledged. Rene Sr. continued, "Well, the reason I was called a Monarchist is that I never trusted a Government that didn’t have at its head a King or Queen that was Catholic." Marcel's brow furrowed in confusion. "But why, Father?" "Because, my sons," Rene Sr. explained, "when you look at how all the countries ousted their Royalty, they did so under the disguise that Royalty could not be trusted. That is the furthest thing from the truth. Royalty made sure that the people always followed Christ the King. These parliaments, congresses, and phony libertarian forms of governments are nothing but Freemasons in waiting. They are Humanists at heart." "But what do they gain from it, Father?" Rene Jr. asked, his curiosity piqued. Rene Sr. sighed; his voice heavy with conviction. "For one gain, and it comes directly from the words of their leader, Albert Pike," he replied. "He said, '…the World will soon come to us for its Sovereigns and Pontiffs. We shall constitute the equilibrium of the Universe and be rulers over the Masters of the World.'" Marcel's eyes widened in realization as his father's words sank in. "The Right Hand of God," he murmured, understanding the gravity of the situation. Rene Sr. nodded solemnly. "Stand up against error, always," he urged, his voice resolute. Meanwhile, in a quiet conversation between Fr. Walter Jaeger and Fr. Michael Gabrielli, the implications of Archbishop Lefebvre's stance against error were explored. Fr. Gabrielli illuminated the significance of this stance, citing it as a pivotal moment in Marcel's life. "It showed him the malice and wickedness of the enemies of the truth," he explained. "But Pope Pius XII restated the same thing his father told him many years earlier: 'Stand up against error.'" Fr. Jaeger struggled to comprehend the weight of these words. "Much of this is hard for me to grasp," he admitted. Marcel Lefebvre's unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness would shape not only his own destiny but also the course of history. As he embarked on his journey as a priest, the echoes of his father's teachings reverberated within him, guiding him towards a path illuminated by faith and conviction. Chapter 5: The Missionary Call Father Joseph Chapello glanced up from his work as Father Marcel Lefebvre entered the room, a look of concern etched on his face. "How is he doing with the missionary work?" Joseph inquired; his voice laced with genuine interest. "Well, as you probably heard from me before, my brother Rene is overloaded with work and there are not enough missionaries," Marcel responded, his tone heavy with the weight of the situation. Joseph nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, he has written to you about that before. Is he becoming more insistent that you join him?" Marcel sighed, a conflicted expression crossing his features. "Well, I know why my Dad named him after himself. He has the same effect on me. Seems to know how to get me to do what he wants. But he is a good priest, and I know he would ask if it weren’t true." "Have you asked the good Cardinal or at least our Pastor about being reassigned?" Joseph inquired, hoping to offer some guidance. Marcel hesitated before responding, "Well, our Pastor said that when I arrived, he welcomed me with pleasure but didn’t really have a need for a second curate. Now that I have spent a year with you, Father, I can see he was right. You seem to do the work of two priests yourself." Joseph chuckled softly. "Oh boy, laying it on thick now. You know I could not have done it without you. The good Pastor is a holy man but sometimes underestimates the needs of this parish. But Father, if you think you could do better in Gabon, you should ask to be transferred." "Father, can I share a little secret with you?" Marcel asked, his voice lowering slightly. "Of course," Joseph replied, leaning in attentively. "In spite of my brother's insistence, the missions do not attract me. At first, I thought that was my calling, but now I see things differently, and I do not know why," Marcel confessed, his words tinged with uncertainty. "Well, Father, we all think we know things when we come out of seminary, but it's only after real experience that we find ourselves," Joseph offered reassuringly. "So true. No, I was not made to be a missionary in faraway places; this does not appeal to me. I prefer to be a pastor or a curate in a village and to know all the people as we are doing right now. I truly feel we are doing some decent work," Marcel admitted, a sense of relief evident in his voice. "Fully agree, Father," Joseph affirmed, a warm smile spreading across his face. "But, Father, here is the conundrum. It is not about me but the will of God, the will of my superiors. If my brother needs help, I feel terrible that I am thinking about myself. Have we not been trained that it is not our will but God’s that should be done?" Marcel pondered aloud, seeking clarity in the midst of his inner conflict. "As much as I would like to disagree with you, Father, because it is great to have you here, you are correct. It is not about our will. If that were the case, we would never have become priests," Joseph admitted, his tone gentle yet firm. Marcel nodded, absorbing Joseph's words thoughtfully. "Well, that’s good of you to say. Just got my appetite back; let us go eat," he suggested, attempting to shift the conversation to lighter topics. Joseph smiled warmly, grateful for the opportunity to offer guidance to his fellow priest. "Let's," he agreed, rising from his seat to accompany Marcel to the dining area. Chapter 6: The Cardinal's Decision: The Novitiate Cardinal Lienart sat at his desk, a stack of papers spread out before him, his expression focused as he reviewed the contents of a letter from Father Lefebvre. The sound of his secretary entering the room drew his attention away from his task. "Your Eminence, the Superior General from the Holy Ghost Fathers is on the phone for you. Can you take the call, or should I have him call you later?" the secretary inquired, her voice respectful yet expectant. "No, I will take the call," Cardinal Lienart replied, his interest piqued by the unexpected interruption. As he picked up the receiver, a voice greeted him from the other end. "Hello, Your Eminence. I hope I have not disturbed you. Is this an enjoyable time for you?" the voice asked politely. "Always have time for the Holy Ghost," Cardinal Lienart responded with a chuckle, his tone warm and welcoming. "Very good. I have received a request from one of your priests in your Lille Diocese by the name of Father Marcel Lefebvre," the Superior General began, getting straight to the point. But before he could continue, Cardinal Lienart cut him off. "Please excuse my interruption, but there's no need to continue, Father. I received a letter myself, as you can imagine," he interjected, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips. "I thought as much. It is only proper," the Superior General replied, his tone acknowledging the mutual understanding between them. "Yes, and I think it makes good sense for him to join his brother, since I have heard so much about the needs you currently have," Cardinal Lienart remarked, his voice reflecting genuine concern for the mission. "That is very generous of you, Your Eminence. We truly can use the help, and we are so fortunate to receive a priest like Father Lefebvre, especially with full formation," the Superior General remarked gratefully, his appreciation evident in his tone. "You are welcome. I will send my approval shortly. Have a wonderful night," Cardinal Lienart replied warmly, conveying his well wishes before ending the call. As he hung up the phone, a sense of satisfaction washed over Cardinal Lienart. "Giovani, can you come in for dictation?" he called out to his secretary, ready to attend to the next task on his agenda. The Cardinals Secretary walked in with a dictation pad and took a seat, prepared to assist him with whatever he needed. "This will be a letter for Father Marcel Lefebvre," Cardinal Lienart began, dictating his response with a sense of purpose. "Dear Father Lefebrve, in response to your request to leave the diocese to join the Holy Ghost Fathers, yes, surely. We are, of course, always sorry to see one of our priests leave, but if you truly think you will be useful to the missions, we cannot refuse your request." He continued to dictate, expressing gratitude for Father Lefebvre's service in Marais-de-Lomme and offering his blessings for the journey ahead. Chapter 7: The Journey Begins: The Novitiate Father Walter Jaeger turned to Father Michael Gabrielli, a look of curiosity evident in his eyes. "Father, what did the Superior General mean by 'especially the formation'? Was Father Lefebvre’s seminary training that much better than the Holy Ghost Fathers?" he inquired, seeking clarification on the matter. Father Michael Gabrielli nodded thoughtfully, considering how best to explain the situation. "The Holy Ghost Fathers were happy to receive a secular priest because they did not have to take care of his formation. Even though Father Lefebrve was a student of the Holy Ghost Fathers in the French Seminary, but it was for the Lille Diocese," he explained, shedding light on the nuances of the situation. "So, onto the missionary?" Father Walter pressed, eager to delve deeper into the narrative. "No, he first entered the novitiate. He was with two priests that were all former students at the French Seminary," Father Michael clarified, providing context for Father Lefebvre's journey. Father Lefebvre entered the front door of the Orly Novitiate House, brushing the snow from his coat as he stepped inside. Spotting the Novitiate Secretary, he approached with a sense of purpose. "Hello, I am Father Lefebrve. Is Father Faure in?" he inquired, his voice echoing through the entrance hall. "Yes, and we have all been expecting you. I will let him know you have arrived. Father Laurent and Father Wolff would like to see you as soon as you are finished with Father Faure," the Novitiate Secretary replied, her tone welcoming. As Father Lefebvre was led into Father Faure's office, he could not help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him. This was the beginning of a new chapter in his journey, and he was eager to embrace it fully. "Father Lefebvre, it is great to have you here. I am Father Faure, the Master of the Novices, and I want to introduce you to Father Desmats, the confessor for the priests," Father Faure greeted him warmly, gesturing towards the other priest seated in the room. "Pleasure to meet you, Father," Father Desmats added, offering a friendly smile. "Thank you, Fathers, for receiving me," Father Lefebvre replied, returning their greetings with genuine gratitude. Father Faure proceeded to outline the details of Father Lefebvre's novitiate, explaining the various aspects of his training and what would be expected of him during his time at the Orly Novitiate House. Father Lefebvre listened attentively, absorbing every word as he prepared himself for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Chapter 8: A New Beginning Father Lefebvre sat at a table in the novitiate confectionery, surrounded by his fellow priests, a sense of camaraderie filling the air. As they shared stories and caught up on each other's lives, Father Lefebvre could not help but feel a sense of belonging among his peers. "What do I need to know?" he asked eagerly, eager to learn as much as possible about his new surroundings. "Wait, Marcel, tell us about the Diocese of Lille," Father Wolff interjected, his curiosity piqued by the mention of Father Lefebvre's previous assignment. "It was a wonderful experience. Do you remember Fr Chapello?" Father Lefebvre responded, launching into a recount of his time in Lille and the impact of his fellow priests on his life and ministry. As the conversation flowed, Father Lefebvre found himself opening up to his companions, sharing his hopes and fears for the future. "Well, if the General Superior allows, are you going to accept?" Father Laurent inquired; his gaze fixed on Father Lefebvre with genuine interest. "True. If the General Superior agrees, I will go. Plus, Bishop Tardy said since I did my studies in Rome, I would be a professor at the Seminary," Father Lefebvre explained, weighing the options before him with careful consideration. "Very good, and away you go!" Father Laurent exclaimed, a note of excitement in his voice as he encouraged Father Lefebvre to embrace the opportunities that lay ahead. But even amidst the anticipation of a new beginning, Father Lefebvre could not shake the lingering doubts that plagued his mind. "Marcel, we must never lose touch with each other," Father Wolff remarked, his words a gentle reminder of the bond that united them as brothers in the priesthood. "We never will, if the good Lord allows and the Blessed Mother supports," Father Lefebvre replied, his voice filled with quiet resolve. As they shared a final meal together before Father Lefebvre's departure, a sense of camaraderie and friendship filled the room, binding them together in a bond that transcended time and distance. With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit renewed by the fellowship of his fellow priests, Father Lefebvre prepared to embark on the next chapter of his journey, trusting in the guidance of divine providence to lead him wherever he was called to go. Chapter 9. The Challenges of War - Gabon, 1943 "Dear Brother, you are a sight for sore eyes!" René exclaimed; relief evident in his voice as he embraced Marcel. "Brother, after the last three years, five years, I never thought I would see you again," Marcel replied, his voice filled with gratitude for their reunion. "Have you seen or heard anything about the family? How is Father?" René inquired, eager for news from home. "I saw him and the family briefly three years ago. All were well," Marcel replied, his heart heavy with memories of their last meeting. "I am concerned because I know Father must be part of British Intelligence, and the way this war is going for Hitler, God only knows what Father could have going on right now," René remarked, his voice filled with worry. "René, you know our Father; he will never stop as long as there is a cause to fight for. But I do pray for him constantly for the very same reason," Marcel replied, his voice tinged with concern. "Well, you are coming back at a very precarious time," René remarked, his tone serious. "Why? I thought the French and British troops had things under control," Marcel inquired, eager to understand the situation. "Well, with General de Gaulle’s troops, you never know. The English are assisting, but it is all the Communists and convicts pouring in at the same time. We are suffering quite a bit," René explained, his words filled with frustration. "I understand the French are fighting each other here as well," Marcel remarked, his voice reflecting the turmoil of the times. "Yes, that's true. But what is even more concerning is the detention of Bishop Tardy," René revealed, his tone grave. "De Gaulle is detaining the Bishop? For what reason?" Marcel inquired, shocked by the news. "This is what is so embarrassing. The poor black people see us French acting in such a manner; it truly scandalizes our ministry," René lamented, his voice filled with sorrow. "What can we do?" Marcel asked, a sense of urgency creeping into his tone. "Well, we will have to negotiate the Bishop’s release pretty quickly. Are you ready to dive in, or do you need a few days to get your feet under you?" René inquired; his voice filled with determination. "Please, brother! Like we will ever have enough time to be ready with this war changing everything on a daily basis. Let us go," Marcel declared, his heart filled with resolve to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The two priests boarding the ship where Bishop Tardy is being held and negotiating with General de Gaulle for his release. Both the priests taking the Bishop by the arm and escorting him down the ship gangplank towards the Mission. Chapter 10: Facing Adversity - Gabon, Bishop’s Quarters The Bishop sat behind his desk; his demeanor cleaned up from his ordeal on the ship but still somewhat disheveled in his speech. Fr. Marcel Lefebrve and Fr. René Lefebvre were walked in by the Bishop's secretary as they took seats on the other side of the desk, their faces reflecting concern for their beloved mentor. "Marcel, why the look of gloom on your face? Something I should know?" the Bishop inquired; his voice filled with empathy. "No, no, Your Eminence. I just cannot believe our own countrymen can be so disrespectful to the Church. To you, Your Eminence!" Marcel exclaimed; his voice tinged with indignation. "Marcel, if Christ’s own people can have him scourged and crucified, who am I? Remember the times that we are living through, Marcel," the Bishop reminded him, his words carrying the weight of wisdom. "I understand, Your Eminence," Marcel replied quietly, his heart heavy with the burdens of the world. "No, Marcel, I don’t think you do. Are you keeping up with what is going on around the world? This war is going to create an apostasy as never seen before. Our real war will start after this one ends," the Bishop cautioned, his voice filled with foreboding. "I have heard and seen the atrocities in my travels. It is as if Satan himself is in command of this war," Marcel remarked, his voice trembling with emotion. "So well said, Marcel. Have you heard the story of Fr. Maximilian Kolbe?" the Bishop inquired, his voice softening with reverence. "The Franciscan Friar?" Marcel replied, a note of recognition in his voice. "Yes. Did you know of his great devotion to the Blessed Mother?" the Bishop continued; his voice filled with admiration. "I did, Your Eminence. I read his works as well. He was an Apostle of Consecration to Mary," Marcel replied, his heart filled with reverence for the saint. "Yes. Did you ever hear about the vision he had when he was a child?" the Bishop asked, his voice softening with nostalgia. "He said 'That night, I asked the Mother of God what was to become of me. Then she came to me holding two crowns, one white, the other red. She asked me if I was willing to accept either of these crowns. The white one meant that I should persevere in purity, and the red that I should become a martyr. I said that I would accept them both,'" Marcel recalled, his voice filled with awe. "You know he gave his life in a concentration camp by asking them to take his life instead of another prisoner?" the Bishop revealed, his voice filled with sorrow. "Yes," Marcel replied quietly, his heart heavy with the memory of the saint's sacrifice. "And all I had to endure were a couple of weeks on a ship. Not much to be said about that. Did you ever hear about Fr. Jozef Cebula?" the Bishop inquired; his voice filled with sadness. "No, I have not, Your Eminence," Marcel replied, his curiosity piqued by the mention of another martyr. "He was a Polish Oblate who was killed in the Mauthausen Concentration Camp in 1941 as well. He was arrested simply because he was a priest. Much for the same reason I was detained," the Bishop revealed, his voice tinged with bitterness. "The difference being that he was not on a boat but in a concentration camp where he had to pound rocks and carry these 60 lbs. rocks and climb 144 step staircases called the 'Death Stairs' while he was being beaten and insulted by his tormentors. Do you know how he died?" the Bishop continued, his voice breaking with emotion. "Sheer exhaustion from the abuse, I would imagine, Your Eminence," Marcel replied, his heart heavy with sorrow for the suffering of his fellow priests. "No! He was ordered to run with a rock on his back, towards the camp's barb wire fence. A guard fired with his submachine gun and declared Jozef 'was shot while trying to escape,'" the Bishop revealed, his voice trembling with anger. "How terrible," René remarked, his voice filled with horror. "They then didn’t even allow him a Catholic Mass and Burial. Instead, they took his body to a crematorium and burned it. That was three months before the death of Fr. Maximilian Kolbe. I could provide you hundreds of these types of attacks on the priests, sisters, and Church. So as for me? Well, I was treated like royalty in my captivity compared to these saints," the Bishop remarked, his voice filled with sorrow. "Your Eminence, our Lord and his Mother have other plans for you. They needed you to remain to carry on," Marcel declared, his voice filled with conviction. "I suppose so. Just keep a watchful eye, Marcel, because in your travels, you will see much, and the works of Satan are everywhere," the Bishop cautioned, his voice filled with wisdom.

We delve into the depths of Catholic spirituality, seeking wisdom, solace, and guidance by drawing from the timeless words of Fulton Sheen, Saint John Henry Newman, and the Gospel of Matthew. Fulton Sheen once said, "It is part of the discipline of God to make His loved ones perfect through trial and suffering. Only by carrying the Cross can one reach the Resurrection." These words point to the very essence of the Catholic faith, reminding us that our trials are not meaningless, but rather part of a divine process, leading us towards spiritual maturity and union with God. Let's break down Fulton Sheen's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "It is part of the discipline of God": In Catholic theology, God is often seen as a loving Father who disciplines His children for their growth and sanctification. This discipline can take the form of trials, challenges, and sufferings that we encounter in life. It's not punishment in a punitive sense but rather a means through which God molds and refines us. "to make His loved ones perfect through trial and suffering": The ultimate goal of God's discipline is the perfection of His beloved children. In Catholic understanding, this perfection refers to becoming more like Christ, who is the perfect image of God. Trials and sufferings are seen as opportunities for spiritual growth, purification, and sanctification. "Only by carrying the Cross can one reach the Resurrection": Here, Sheen draws a direct connection between the sufferings of Christ on the Cross and the Resurrection. In Catholic theology, the Cross is central to salvation. Jesus' sacrificial death on the Cross redeemed humanity, and His Resurrection opened the way to eternal life. Similarly, in our own lives, it's through embracing our crosses—our trials and sufferings—that we participate in the redemptive work of Christ and ultimately share in His resurrection glory. Overall, Sheen's quote reflects a traditional Catholic perspective on suffering, emphasizing its transformative power when embraced in union with Christ's own suffering and sacrifice. It speaks to the Catholic understanding of redemptive suffering and the hope of resurrection that follows. Now, lets transition to Saint John Henry Newman, in his characteristic eloquence, paints a vivid picture of the inevitable journey each of us must undertake—the evening of life, the moment of judgment. He speaks of a time when we stand alone before the Lord, our deeds laid bare for scrutiny. It's a sobering thought, isn't it? To confront ourselves fully, without the veils of self-deception or denial, to see ourselves as God sees us. "Each of us must come to the evening of life. Each of us must enter on eternity. Each of us must come to that quiet, awful time, when we will appear before the Lord of the vineyard, and answer for the deeds done in the body, whether they be good or bad. That, my dear brethren, you will have to undergo. ... It will be the dread moment of expectation when your fate for eternity is in the balance, and when you are about to be sent forth as the companion of either saints or devils, without possibility of change. There can be no change; there can be no reversal. As that judgment decides it, so it will be for ever and ever. Such is the particular judgment. ... when we find ourselves by ourselves, one by one, in his presence, and have brought before us most vividly all the thoughts, words, and deeds of this past life. Who will be able to bear the sight of himself? And yet we shall be obliged steadily to confront ourselves and to see ourselves. In this life we shrink from knowing our real selves. We do not like to know how sinful we are. We love those who prophecy smooth things to us, and we are angry with those who tell us of our faults. But on that day, not one fault only, but all the secret, as well as evident, defects of our character will be clearly brought out. We shall see what we feared to see here, and much more. And then, when the full sight of ourselves comes to us, who will not wish that he had known more of himself here, rather than leaving it for the inevitable day to reveal it all to him!" —Saint John Henry Newman Newman's words pierce through the comfortable illusions we often construct around our own righteousness. He speaks of the dread moment of expectation, when our fate for eternity hangs in the balance. Yet, amidst this solemnity, there's a glimmer of hope a call to self-awareness, to acknowledge our faults, our sins, before it's too late. Now let me wrap up this episode from the Gospel of Matthew, we hear a powerful admonition on forgiveness. "If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions." These words, spoken by Christ himself, underscore the vital importance of forgiveness in our spiritual journey. Forgiveness, it's often said, is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it. Yet, it's also one of the most challenging aspects of our faith. How do we forgive those who have wronged us, who have caused us pain? How do we let go of resentment, of bitterness, and embrace the liberating power of forgiveness? In the light of Sheen's wisdom, we can see forgiveness as another form of carrying our cross the Cross of Christ, who forgave even those who crucified him. In forgiving others, we participate in the redemptive work of Christ, freeing not only the offender but also ourselves from the chains of anger and resentment. So, as we journey through life, let us embrace our trials as opportunities for growth, our judgment as a call to self-awareness, and forgiveness as the path to spiritual freedom. May the words of Sheen, Newman, and Christ himself guide us along the way, as we strive to walk the narrow path that leads to eternal life. Thank you for joining me today on Embracing the Cross. Until next time, may God's grace and peace be with you always. Now go out and convert somebody. Their soul depends on it. Good day!

The Evergetinos is a renowned collection of spiritual teachings and anecdotes from the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. It is also known as "The Evergetinos of St. Symeon the New Theologian and St. Makarios of Corinth" and is named after the Greek word "evergetinos," meaning "benefactor" or "philanthropist." Compiled in the 14th century, The Evergetinos consists of four volumes containing a wealth of wisdom and guidance on various aspects of the Christian life, including prayer, repentance, spiritual warfare, humility, and love for God and others. The teachings in The Evergetinos are primarily based on the writings and experiences of notable spiritual fathers, particularly St. Symeon the New Theologian (949–1022) and St. Makarios of Corinth (1731–1805). The Evergetinos has been highly regarded within the Orthodox Christian tradition as a valuable resource for spiritual growth and guidance. It has provided inspiration and insight to countless individuals seeking to deepen their relationship with God and progress on the path of holiness. The teachings and stories found in The Evergetinos continue to resonate with believers and offer timeless wisdom to those pursuing a life of faith.

We will delve into the timeless wisdom of the Catholic faith. We explore the profound insights of two revered spiritual figures, Padre Pio of Pietrelcina and Venerable Louis of Grenada, as well as a scripture reading from the Letter to the Philippians. Padre Pio, known for his unwavering faith and miraculous intercessions, once said, "Pray, hope, and don't worry. Worry is useless. God is merciful and will hear your prayer." These words resonate deeply with the Catholic tradition, reminding us of the power of prayer and the importance of trusting in God's providence even in the face of uncertainty and trials. Pray: In Catholicism, prayer is foundational to the spiritual life. It is the means by which we communicate with God, express our gratitude, seek forgiveness, and present our needs and intentions. Through prayer, we deepen our relationship with God and open ourselves to His grace and guidance. Hope: Hope is a theological virtue infused by God into the souls of the faithful. It is the confident expectation of divine blessing and the desire for eternal happiness. In the face of challenges and uncertainties, hope sustains us, reminding us of God's promises and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom. As Catholics, our hope is anchored in the resurrection of Christ and the assurance of His victory over sin and death. Don't Worry: Worry, in the Catholic tradition, is seen as a lack of trust in God's providence. It is natural to feel concern or anxiety about the trials and tribulations of life, but excessive worry can hinder our spiritual growth and peace of mind. Jesus himself admonished his disciples not to worry, emphasizing the Father's care for His children. Instead of worrying, we are called to entrust our concerns to God through prayer and surrender to His will. Worry is Useless: This statement reflects the understanding that worry accomplishes nothing productive. It does not change our circumstances or alleviate our burdens; rather, it drains us of energy and peace. From a traditional Catholic perspective, worry can also be seen as a lack of faith in God's goodness and sovereignty. Trusting in God's providence, we are encouraged to cast our anxieties upon Him, knowing that He cares for us. God is Merciful and will Hear Your Prayer: Central to Catholic teaching is the belief in God's infinite mercy and compassion. No matter how unworthy or sinful we may feel, God's mercy is always available to us through the sacrament of reconciliation and the outpouring of His grace. When we pray with faith and humility, God listens to our petitions and responds according to His wisdom and love. Even if our prayers are not answered in the way we expect, we can trust that God's will is always for our ultimate good. In summary, Padre Pio's quote encapsulates key aspects of the Catholic spiritual life: prayer, hope, trust in God's providence, and confidence in His mercy. It serves as a reminder to cultivate a deep and abiding faith in God, even in the midst of life's challenges and uncertainties. So in our journey of faith, we encounter the reality of sin, as articulated by Venerable Louis of Grenada. He vividly describes how sin enslaves the soul, rendering it miserable, weak, and torpid. Sin not only separates us from God but also shackles us to the world, the flesh, and the devil, robbing us of true freedom and joy. But let me first tell you who he is: Venerable Louis of Granada, also known as Louis de Granada or Fray Luis de Granada, was a Spanish Dominican friar, preacher, and writer. He lived during the 16th century, born in 1504 in Granada, Spain, and died in 1588 in Lisbon, Portugal. He is remembered as one of the most influential spiritual writers of his time and a key figure in the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Louis entered the Dominican Order at a young age and received a thorough education in theology and philosophy. He was known for his piety, humility, and dedication to the Dominican way of life. After his ordination to the priesthood, he embarked on a career as a preacher, traveling throughout Spain and Portugal to deliver sermons and retreats. One of Louis of Granada's most significant contributions was his literary output. He wrote numerous works on spirituality, theology, and the Christian life, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition. His writings were characterized by their clarity, depth of insight, and practical wisdom, making them accessible to a wide audience. Among his most famous works are "The Sinner's Guide," "The Memorial of the Christian Life," and "The Book of Prayer and Meditation." These books became immensely popular and were translated into multiple languages, influencing generations of Catholics and spiritual seekers. Louis of Granada's spirituality was deeply rooted in the teachings of the Catholic Church and the Dominican tradition. He emphasized the importance of prayer, virtue, and the pursuit of holiness in everyday life. His writings sought to guide readers in their spiritual journey, offering practical advice and encouragement to live a life pleasing to God. "Thus sin renders the soul miserable, weak and torpid, inconstant in doing good, cowardly in resisting temptation, slothful in the observance of God's commandments. It deprives her of true liberty and of that sovereignty which she should never resign; it makes her a slave to the world, the flesh, and the devil; it subjects her to a harder and more wretched servitude than that of the unhappy Israelites in Egypt or Babylon. Sin so dulls and stupefies the spiritual senses of man that he is deaf to God's voice and inspirations; blind to the dreadful calamities which threaten him; insensible to the sweet odor of virtue and the example of the saints; incapable of tasting how sweet the Lord is, or feeling the touch of His benign hand in the benefits which should be a constant incitement to his greater love. Moreover, sin destroys the peace and joy of a good conscience, takes away the soul's fervor, and leaves her an object abominable in the eyes of God and His saints. The grace of justification delivers us from all these miseries. For God, in His infinite mercy, is not content with effacing our sins and restoring us to His favor; He delivers us from the evils sin has brought upon us, and renews the interior man in his former strength and beauty. Thus He heals our wounds, breaks our bonds, moderates the violence of our passions, restores with true liberty the supernatural beauty of the soul, reestablishes us in the peace and joy of a good conscience, reanimates our interior senses, inspires us with ardor for good and a salutary hatred of sin, makes us strong and constant in resisting evil, and thus enriches us with an abundance of good works. In fine, He so perfectly renews the inner man with all his faculties that the Apostle calls those who are thus justified new men and new creatures." However, amidst the darkness of sin, there shines the light of God's grace. The grace of justification, as Venerable Louis of Grenada explains, liberates us from the bondage of sin and restores our spiritual faculties. It heals our wounds, breaks our bonds, and renews our inner being, making us new creatures in Christ. This profound transformation is beautifully expressed in the words of St. Paul to the Philippians: "For to you has been granted, for the sake of Christ, not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him." Here, St. Paul reminds us that suffering, when united with Christ, becomes a means of grace and redemption. It is through our sufferings that we are conformed more closely to Christ and participate in his salvific work. As Catholics, we are called to embrace both the joys and the crosses of our faith journey. We are called to pray with unwavering hope, trusting in God's mercy and providence. We are called to confront sin with humility and repentance, knowing that God's grace is greater than our weaknesses. And we are called to embrace suffering with faith and courage, knowing that it leads to our sanctification and ultimate union with God. Thank you for joining me on this journey of faith and reflection. May the words of Padre Pio, Venerable Louis of Grenada, and St. Paul inspire us to deepen our relationship with God and live our Catholic faith with courage and conviction. Then what do we do? Go out and convert somebody.

Living the Gospel: Stewardship and Silence We delve into the heart of Catholic tradition, seeking wisdom and guidance for our lives today. We explore the profound teachings of St. Basil the Great and the silent but powerful witness of St. Joseph, all through the lens of 1 Corinthians 4:5. St. Basil the Great once said, “The bread you store up belongs to the hungry; the cloak that lies in your chest belongs to the naked; the gold you have hidden in the ground belongs to the poor.” These words resonate deeply with the call to stewardship a fundamental principle of our faith. Stewardship is more than just managing our material possessions; it’s about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, entrusted to us for the benefit of others. St. Basil challenges us to see beyond our own needs and desires, urging us to share generously with those who are less fortunate. In doing so, we embody the love and compassion of Christ, who calls us to serve our brothers and sisters with humility and generosity. But what about silence? How does the silence of St. Joseph speak to us today? St. Basil the Great was a fourth-century bishop in the Eastern Church and a renowned theologian and philosopher. He is revered as a saint in both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church. This quote is part of his teachings on charity and social justice. Stewardship: At its core, this quote emphasizes the concept of stewardship a fundamental principle in Catholic social teaching. Stewardship recognizes that all the resources we possess ultimately belong to God, and we are called to manage them responsibly for the common good. Material Goods as a Means of Charity: St. Basil highlights the importance of using our material possessions to alleviate the suffering of others. He emphasizes that the bread, cloak, and gold we possess are not solely for our own benefit but are meant to be shared with those in need. This reflects the biblical principle of charity and solidarity with the poor and marginalized. Radical Generosity: St. Basil's words challenge us to examine our attitudes towards wealth and possessions. He advocates for a radical generosity that transcends mere token gestures, urging us to give sacrificially for the well-being of others. This echoes Jesus' teachings on love of neighbor and the importance of caring for the least among us. Justice and Compassion: In essence, St. Basil calls for a society marked by justice and compassion, where resources are distributed equitably and the needs of the vulnerable are prioritized. This aligns with Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the dignity of every human person and the obligation to work for the common good. In summary, St. Basil's quote encapsulates the Catholic understanding of stewardship, charity, and social justice, challenging us to examine how we use our material possessions and calling us to live lives of generosity and solidarity with the less fortunate. Now lets transition to Fr. Matthew Kauth but let me explain who he is: Father Matthew Kauth is a Catholic priest known for his pastoral ministry, teaching, and writing. While there isn't an extensive biography readily available, here's a general overview based on the information typically associated with him: Education and Formation: Father Matthew Kauth likely underwent formal education and formation in preparation for the priesthood. This would include studies in philosophy and theology, possibly at a seminary or university. Ordination: He would have been ordained as a Catholic priest, likely after completing the required formation and discernment process within a diocese or religious order. Ministry: Father Kauth has likely served in various pastoral roles within the Catholic Church, including parish ministry, spiritual direction, and possibly teaching in seminaries or schools of theology. Authorship: He is known for his writings on topics related to theology, spirituality, and the Catholic faith. His insights often reflect a deep understanding of Catholic tradition and Scripture, combined with a pastoral approach that resonates with many readers. Teaching: Father Kauth may have also been involved in teaching theology or religious studies at a university or seminary level, sharing his knowledge and insights with future priests, religious, and lay faithful. Public Speaking and Retreats: It's possible that Father Kauth has also engaged in public speaking engagements, giving talks, leading retreats, and participating in conferences or workshops on various aspects of the Catholic faith. Overall, Father Matthew Kauth's contributions to the Church likely include a combination of pastoral ministry, teaching, writing, and spiritual guidance, all aimed at deepening the faith of believers and fostering a deeper relationship with God within the Catholic tradition. Fr Kauth beautifully captures the essence of St. Joseph’s silence when he says, “While we have no words of Joseph in all of Scripture, we know one thing he said: Jesus. His name is Jesus. Joseph is not perfectly silent. He speaks the name ‘Yahweh saves.’ Through Mary does the child receive a human nature, through Joseph his human name. The Word is spoken to Mary and she conceives. The word is spoken to Joseph and he breathes that name forth in utterance.” St. Joseph’s silence is not emptiness but a profound listening and obedience to the will of God. In his quiet humility, he accepted his role as the earthly father of Jesus, nurturing and protecting him with unwavering love. His silence speaks volumes about trust, faith, and obedience—virtues that we, too, are called to embrace in our journey of discipleship. Let's break down Father Matthew Kauth's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: Joseph's Silence in Scripture: Father Kauth acknowledges that there are no recorded words of St. Joseph in the Bible. Despite this apparent silence, he emphasizes that Joseph's role is not one of complete silence but of profound significance. The Power of the Name 'Jesus': Father Kauth highlights that although Joseph may not have spoken many words, he did speak the most important word of all: "Jesus." By naming the child "Jesus," Joseph participates in the divine plan of salvation. The name "Jesus" itself carries immense significance, as it means "Yahweh saves" or "God saves." Joseph's Role in Salvation History: Father Kauth underscores Joseph's crucial role in salvation history. Through Mary's "yes" to God's will, the child Jesus receives his human nature. However, it is through Joseph that Jesus receives his human name. This emphasizes Joseph's unique and irreplaceable role as the earthly father of Jesus, chosen by God to protect, nurture, and raise the Savior of the world. The Word Spoken to Joseph: Father Kauth draws a parallel between the Word being spoken to Mary, resulting in the conception of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit, and the Word being spoken to Joseph. While Mary conceives physically, Joseph conceives spiritually by accepting his role as the foster father of Jesus and naming him "Jesus." This highlights Joseph's obedience and openness to God's will, even in the absence of explicit words recorded in Scripture. In summary, Father Matthew Kauth's quote underscores the profound significance of St. Joseph's role in salvation history, emphasizing his obedience, humility, and participation in God's plan through the simple act of naming Jesus. It invites Catholics to reflect on Joseph's silent but powerful witness and to recognize the importance of obedience and trust in God's providence in their own lives. As we reflect on the teachings of St. Basil and the example of St. Joseph, let us also ponder the words of St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 4:5: “Therefore, do not make any judgment before the appointed time, until the Lord comes, for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts, and then everyone will receive praise from God.” Let's break down 1 Corinthians 4:5 from a traditional Catholic perspective: Context: The Apostle Paul wrote the First Epistle to the Corinthians to address various issues within the Christian community in Corinth. In this particular passage, Paul is addressing the problem of divisions and conflicts among the Corinthians, some of which stemmed from their tendency to pass judgment on one another. Avoiding Hasty Judgment: Paul begins by admonishing the Corinthians not to pass judgment prematurely. He urges them to refrain from making hasty or unjust judgments about others before the appointed time. Awaiting the Lord's Coming: Paul reminds the Corinthians that there will come a time when the Lord Jesus Christ will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. At that time, all things hidden in darkness will be brought to light, and the true motives of people's hearts will be revealed. God's Final Judgment: The verse underscores the belief in the final judgment, where God, in His omniscience and justice, will render a just verdict on every person. This judgment will not only consider outward actions but also the inner motivations and intentions of individuals. Praise from God: Those who have lived according to God's will and have remained faithful will receive praise and reward from God. This highlights the importance of living a life of faithfulness and integrity, knowing that ultimately, our actions and intentions will be judged by God Himself. Humility and Patience: The verse teaches humility and patience, urging believers to trust in God's timing and judgment rather than hastily passing judgment on others. It calls for a recognition of our own limitations and fallibility, leaving ultimate judgment to God. In summary, 1 Corinthians 4:5 from a traditional Catholic perspective emphasizes the importance of avoiding hasty and unjust judgment, trusting in God's final judgment, and living a life of faithfulness and integrity in anticipation of receiving praise from God. It invites believers to cultivate humility, patience, and trust in God's providence as they await the fulfillment of His promises. These words remind us of the importance of humility and patience in our spiritual journey. We are called to refrain from passing judgment on others and instead focus on our own hearts, allowing God to reveal the truth in his perfect timing. When we live with this awareness, we cultivate a spirit of compassion and understanding, recognizing the dignity and worth of every person as beloved children of God. Thank you for joining me on this episode and I hope you found inspiration and encouragement in the wisdom of St. Basil the Great, the silent witness of St. Joseph, and the timeless words of Scripture. May we continue to live out our faith with generosity, humility, and love, trusting in God’s providence every step of the way. Now go out and convert somebody. Good Day!

Biblical Basis: Ripperger's teachings draw heavily from the Bible, particularly the Old Testament. The phrase "fear of the Lord" originates from various passages in the Bible, such as Proverbs 9:10 ("The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom") and Psalms 111:10 ("The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding"). Meaning of "Fear of the Lord": In Catholic theology, the "fear of the Lord" doesn't refer to a terror of punishment but rather a deep reverence and awe for God's majesty, power, and holiness. It involves acknowledging God's authority over one's life and living in accordance with His commandments out of love and respect. Root of Modern Problems: According to Ripperger, many of the societal and moral problems facing the world today stem from a lack of fear of the Lord. He argues that when individuals and societies abandon this reverence for God, they lose their moral compass and fall into sin and chaos. Effects on Society: Ripperger likely discusses how the erosion of the fear of the Lord leads to moral relativism, secularism, and a disregard for traditional values. Without a sense of accountability to a higher power, individuals may prioritize their own desires and self-interest over ethical considerations. Remedy: Ripperger emphasizes the importance of restoring the fear of the Lord as a remedy for societal ills. This involves fostering a deeper spiritual life, engaging in prayer and worship, and living virtuously in accordance with Christian principles. He often encourages believers to cultivate a personal relationship with God rooted in reverence and obedience. Overall, Ripperger's message underscores the significance of the fear of the Lord as a foundational aspect of faith and morality, and he sees its absence as a contributing factor to many contemporary challenges. His teachings aim to guide individuals and communities towards a deeper spiritual life centered on God's wisdom and holiness.

We explore the timeless wisdom of the Catholic tradition and its relevance in our lives today we delve into the profound teachings of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Francis de Sales, alongside the scripture verse from 1 Samuel 12:23-24. Let's start with a quote from St. Vincent de Paul: "Christ's teaching will never let us down, while worldly wisdom always will." These words echo the sentiment of Jesus Himself, who likened worldly wisdom to a house built on sand, vulnerable to collapse. In contrast, Christ's teachings provide a solid foundation, like a building constructed upon rock. But let me provide the entire quote: "Let each of us accept the truth of the following statement and try to make it our most fundamental principle: Christ's teaching will never let us down, while worldly wisdom always will. Christ Himself said that this sort of wisdom was like a house with nothing but sand as its foundation, while His own was like a building with solid rock as its foundation." St. Vincent de Paul Let's break down this quote from St. Vincent de Paul from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Let each of us accept the truth of the following statement and try to make it our most fundamental principle": St. Vincent de Paul begins by urging us to accept the truth of what he is about to say. This sets the stage for the importance of what follows and encourages personal reflection and acceptance. "Christ's teaching will never let us down, while worldly wisdom always will": Here, St. Vincent emphasizes the reliability and steadfastness of Christ's teachings. From a traditional Catholic perspective, Christ's teachings, as revealed in Scripture and interpreted by the Church, are seen as eternal truths that provide guidance for every aspect of life. In contrast, worldly wisdom, which is often based on transient and imperfect human understanding, is portrayed as unreliable and prone to failure. "Christ Himself said that this sort of wisdom was like a house with nothing but sand as its foundation, while His own was like a building with solid rock as its foundation": St. Vincent references Jesus's parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27), Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash. where Jesus compares those who hear and act on His teachings to a wise builder who builds on rock, and those who ignore His teachings to a foolish builder who builds on sand. In Catholic tradition, this imagery underscores the importance of building our lives upon the solid foundation of Christ's teachings, which provide stability and security even in the face of life's storms. Overall, St. Vincent de Paul's quote emphasizes the superiority of Christ's teachings over worldly wisdom and encourages believers to prioritize and integrate these teachings into their lives as the cornerstone of their faith and decision-making. As Catholics, we are called to anchor our lives in the teachings of Christ, allowing His wisdom to guide our decisions and actions. But how do we practically apply this in our daily lives? St. Francis de Sales offers us insight: "If during vocal prayer your heart is drawn to mental prayer, do not restrain it." This guidance emphasizes the importance of authenticity in our spiritual practice. When our hearts are moved towards deeper communion with God, whether through vocal or mental prayer, we should embrace that direction wholeheartedly. St. Francis teaches us that such devotion is not only more acceptable to God but also more beneficial to our souls. In our prayer life, let us be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to lead us closer to God. But let me provide the entire quote: “If during vocal prayer your heart is drawn to mental prayer, do not restrain it, but let your devotion take that channel, omitting the vocal prayers which you intended to say: that which takes their place is more acceptable to God, and more useful to your own soul.” —St. Francis de Sales Let's analyze this quote from St. Francis de Sales "If during vocal prayer your heart is drawn to mental prayer, do not restrain it": St. Francis de Sales acknowledges the fluidity of prayer and the diversity of ways in which individuals may be drawn to communicate with God. In Catholic tradition, vocal prayer involves reciting prayers aloud or silently, while mental prayer involves meditation, contemplation, or silently conversing with God. St. Francis encourages flexibility in prayer, recognizing that the Holy Spirit may prompt individuals to engage in mental prayer even while initially intending to pray vocally. "Let your devotion take that channel, omitting the vocal prayers which you intended to say": St. Francis advises that when one's heart is drawn to mental prayer, they should allow their devotion to flow in that direction. This implies a willingness to let go of one's preconceived plans or routines in prayer and to be responsive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. It's an invitation to prioritize the authenticity of one's prayer experience over rigid adherence to prescribed forms. "That which takes their place is more acceptable to God, and more useful to your own soul": St. Francis de Sales suggests that when prayer naturally shifts from vocal to mental, it becomes more pleasing to God and beneficial to the individual's spiritual growth. From a traditional Catholic perspective, mental prayer often leads to deeper intimacy with God, as it involves the engagement of the intellect, imagination, and will in dialogue with the Divine. It fosters spiritual growth, interior transformation, and a deeper understanding of God's will. In summary, St. Francis de Sales's quote underscores the importance of being open to the movement of the Holy Spirit in prayer, allowing one's devotion to flow naturally between vocal and mental expressions. It highlights the value of authenticity in prayer and the spiritual benefits of engaging in mental prayer when prompted, ultimately leading to a more profound communion with God. But our journey in faith doesn't end with prayer; it extends to our service to others. In 1 Samuel 12:23-24, we hear the words of Samuel: "Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you... Only fear the Lord, and serve Him faithfully with all your heart." Samuel's commitment to prayer and service serves as a model for us all. Let me provide the entire quote: "Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you; and I will instruct you in the good and the right way. Only fear the Lord, and serve him faithfully with all your heart; for consider what great things he has done for you." –1 Samuel 12:23-24 Let's break down this scripture passage from 1 Samuel 12:23-24 from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you": In this passage, the prophet Samuel expresses his commitment to intercede for the people of Israel. From a traditional Catholic perspective, intercessory prayer is seen as a vital aspect of the Christian life. It reflects the communion of saints, where believers support one another through prayer, asking for God's grace and blessings on behalf of others. Samuel's resolve not to cease praying for the Israelites demonstrates his deep concern for their spiritual welfare and his recognition of the importance of prayer in their relationship with God. "And I will instruct you in the good and the right way": Samuel not only commits to praying for the people but also pledges to provide them with guidance and instruction in living according to God's will. In Catholic tradition, the role of spiritual leaders, such as prophets, priests, and bishops, includes teaching and shepherding the faithful in the ways of righteousness and holiness. This teaching is grounded in Sacred Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church), aimed at helping believers grow in faith, virtue, and knowledge of God's Word. "Only fear the Lord, and serve him faithfully with all your heart; for consider what great things he has done for you": Samuel's instruction to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully echoes themes found throughout the Old and New Testaments. In Catholic theology, "fearing the Lord" does not imply a servile fear but rather a reverential awe and respect for God's majesty, holiness, and power. Serving God faithfully with all one's heart entails a wholehearted commitment to loving and obeying Him, recognizing His goodness and faithfulness in all aspects of life. Samuel encourages the Israelites to reflect on God's past blessings and deliverances, urging them to respond with gratitude, obedience, and fidelity. In summary, this scripture passage from 1 Samuel underscores the importance of prayer, instruction in the faith, reverence for God, faithful service, and gratitude for His goodness. It offers timeless wisdom for believers in every age, reminding them of their call to live in relationship with God and to seek His will in all things. Like Samuel, let us not cease to pray for one another, recognizing the importance of intercession in the life of faith. And as we pray, let us also heed the call to serve the Lord faithfully with all our hearts. In serving others, we emulate Christ Himself, who came not to be served but to serve. As we conclude today's episode, let us reflect on the wisdom of St. Vincent de Paul, St. Francis de Sales, and the scripture from 1 Samuel. May we build our lives on the solid foundation of Christ's teachings, embracing both prayer and service as integral aspects of our faith journey. Thank you for joining me on "Building on the Rock." Until next time, may God bless you abundantly. Now go out and convert somebody.

A Catechism of Christian Doctrine, Prepared and Enjoined by Order of the Third Council of Baltimore, or simply the Baltimore Catechism, was the national Catholic catechism for children in the United States, based on Robert Bellarmine's 1614 Small Catechism. The first such catechism written for Catholics in North America, it was the standard Catholic school text in the country from 1885 to the late 1960s. From its publication, however, there were calls to revise it, and many other catechisms were used during this period.[2] It was officially replaced by the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults in 2004, based on the revised universal Catechism of the Catholic Church. In response to a personal copyright taken out by Bishop John Lancaster Spalding, various editions include annotations or other modifications. While the approved text had to remain the same in the catechisms, by adding maps, glossaries or definitions publishers could copyright and sell their own version of the catechism. The Baltimore Catechism was widely used in many Catholic schools until many moved away from catechism-based education, though it is still used in some. In the nineteenth century, repeated efforts had been made in the United States towards an arrangement by which a uniform textbook of Christian doctrine might be used by all Catholics.[4] As early as 1829, the bishops assembled in the First Provincial Council of Baltimore decreed: "A catechism shall be written which is better adapted to the circumstances of this Province; it shall give the Christian Doctrine as explained in Cardinal Bellarmine's Catechism (1597), and when approved by the Holy See, it shall be published for the common use of Catholics" (Decr. xxxiii). The clause recommending Bellarmine's catechism as a model was added at the special request of the Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith. Bellarmine's Small Catechism, Italian text with English translation, was published in Boston in 1853. The wish of the bishops was not carried out and the First and Second Plenary Councils of Baltimore (1852 and 1866) repeated the decree of 1829. In the Third Plenary Council (1884) many bishops were in favor of a "revised" edition of a 1775 catechism by Archbishop Butler from Ireland, but finally the matter was given into the hands of a committee of six bishops. At last, in 1885, was issued A Catechism of Christian Doctrine, Prepared and Enjoined by Order of the Third Council of Baltimore. The council had desired a catechism "perfect in every respect" (Acta et Decr., p. 219). Nearly every U.S. bishop gave the new national catechism his official approbation and many schools adopted it, but it also received considerable criticism. In 1895, only ten years after publication, the American archbishops began a process of revision, but this was abandoned due to a lack of consensus. Between 1885 and 1941 over 100 other Catholic catechetical manuals were published in America with official imprimaturs, although none was as widely used as the "Baltimore Catechism".

You can find Jeanne Smiths article on Dignitas Infinita at: https://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2024/04/counterpoint-dignitas-infinita-as.html Join us in this episode as we explore the profound wisdom of St. Angela Merici and Fr. Thomas Dubay, two eminent figures in Catholic spirituality, as they guide us in understanding the essence of living in total submission to God's will. Drawing upon the timeless truths of scripture, particularly Deuteronomy 6:5-9, we delve into the importance of cultivating a steadfast faith and readiness to receive God's grace through prayer. St. Angela Merici encourages us to make a resolute commitment to submit ourselves entirely to God's will, embracing whatever tasks He entrusts to us with unwavering faith and perseverance until the very end. She said: "You must make a sound and firm resolution to submit yourselves totally to His will and, with a lively and steadfast faith, to receive from Him what you have to do for love of Him. And in this (whatever may happen) to persevere with constancy to the very end." St. Angela Merici The Call to Submission "Sound and firm resolution": This emphasizes the importance of a deliberate and unwavering choice to submit oneself to God's will. It's not a fleeting decision but a commitment that guides your life. "Submit yourselves totally": This speaks to complete surrender to God's plan, trusting that He knows what's best for you, even if it doesn't always align with your desires. Living Faith "With a lively and steadfast faith": Submission isn't about blind obedience. It requires a vibrant faith that actively seeks God and trusts in His love and wisdom. "Receive from Him what you have to do for love of Him": Here, St. Angela emphasizes that God reveals His will to those who seek Him. Through prayer, reflection, and living a Sacramental life, we become more attuned to what God desires for us. Ultimately, following His will is an act of love, expressing our gratitude for His blessings. Perseverance in the Face of Challenges "And in this (whatever may happen)": This acknowledges that life throws challenges our way. Following God's will doesn't guarantee an easy path. "Persevere with constancy to the very end": St. Angela reminds us of the importance of perseverance. There will be times when following God's will feels difficult, but we are called to remain constant in our faith and commitment. Connecting it to Catholic Teachings This quote aligns with the Catholic belief in God's providence, that He has a loving plan for each person's life. Submission to God's will is also linked to the concept of vocation, the call that God places on each of us to live a life of purpose, which could involve religious life, marriage, or any other path that allows us to glorify God. The perseverance mentioned by St. Angela is a reflection of the importance of Christian virtues like hope and fortitude, which help us navigate life's difficulties. Overall St. Angela Merici's quote is a call to live a life centered on God's will. It's a life built on faith, trust, and unwavering commitment, even when the path gets tough. By following this path, we experience true fulfillment and a deeper connection with God. Now lets move to Fr Thomas Dubay but let me first explain who he was: Father Thomas Dubay was a Catholic priest, author, and spiritual director known for his profound writings on prayer, spirituality, and contemplative life. Here's a brief biography: Father Thomas Dubay was born on September 28, 1921, in Michigan, United States. He joined the religious congregation of the Servants of the Paraclete and was ordained a priest in 1950. He pursued further studies in theology and philosophy, earning a doctorate in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. Throughout his life, Father Dubay was deeply committed to helping others deepen their spiritual lives through prayer and contemplation. He taught theology and served as a spiritual director for many individuals, guiding them in their journey towards God. One of Father Dubay's most significant contributions to spiritual literature is his series of books on prayer and contemplation. His works include titles such as "Fire Within: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and the Gospel—On Prayer," "Deep Conversion/Deep Prayer," and "The Evidential Power of Beauty: Science and Theology Meet." These books delve into the mystical tradition of the Catholic Church, drawing from the wisdom of saints like Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross, and offer practical guidance for deepening one's relationship with God through prayer. Father Dubay was also a prolific speaker, traveling extensively to give retreats and lectures on spirituality and prayer. His teachings were characterized by their clarity, depth, and profound insights into the spiritual life. Father Thomas Dubay passed away on September 26, 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy of spiritual wisdom that continues to inspire and guide seekers of God to this day. His writings and teachings remain influential in the Catholic Church and beyond, touching the lives of countless individuals seeking a deeper relationship with God through prayer and contemplation. He said: “God gives prayer growth precisely according to our degree of readiness for it. He forces no one. According as we are more or less receptive, He bestows more or less depth of communion. In the same manner, five hundred people in a parish church all hear the same sound waves during the homily, but they profit from it exactly as they are or are not disposed for the message. Jesus taught the same truth in his parable of the sower: from the word of God some hearers yield nothing at all, while others yield thirty or sixty or a hundredfold.” Fr. Thomas Dubay's quote reflects the understanding of prayer and spiritual growth as deeply intertwined with the disposition and receptivity of the individual. Let's break it down: God's Role in Prayer Growth: According to traditional Catholic theology, God is the ultimate source of all spiritual growth and development. Fr. Dubay emphasizes that God is the one who gives growth to prayer. This growth is not arbitrary but precisely according to the readiness or receptivity of the individual. Freedom of Will: Fr. Dubay highlights that God does not force anyone to grow in prayer or spiritual depth. He respects human freedom and allows individuals to choose whether or not to engage in prayer and spiritual practices. This aligns with the Catholic belief in the dignity of human free will. Individual Receptivity: The depth of communion with God in prayer depends on the individual's receptivity. Some people may be more open and disposed to receiving God's grace, leading to deeper communion in prayer, while others may be less receptive. Parable of the Sower: Fr. Dubay references Jesus' parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23), where Jesus illustrates how different people respond to the word of God. Just as the seed falls on various types of soil producing different yields, the word of God affects people differently based on their receptivity and openness. Homily Analogy: Fr. Dubay uses the analogy of a homily being heard by a congregation to illustrate how people respond differently to spiritual messages. Despite everyone hearing the same words, the degree to which they benefit from it varies depending on their disposition and readiness to receive the message. Overall, Fr. Dubay's quote underscores the importance of personal disposition, receptivity, and openness to God's grace in prayer and spiritual growth, echoing key principles of traditional Catholic spirituality. Fr. Thomas Dubay elucidates the dynamic nature of prayer growth, emphasizing that God grants spiritual depth and communion in proportion to our receptivity and readiness to receive His grace. Let us transition to Scripture Verse: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 reminds us of the paramount importance of loving God wholeheartedly, teaching His commandments diligently to future generations, and integrating His Word into every aspect of our lives. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. And you shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." Deuteronomy 6:5-9 This passage from Deuteronomy is often referred to as the "Shema," which is a central prayer in Judaism, affirming the oneness of God. Here's a breakdown of the verse from a traditional Catholic perspective: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might": This commandment emphasizes the total devotion and love that believers should have for God. It's not just about outward actions but involves the entirety of one's being – heart, soul, and strength. This echoes the Greatest Commandment spoken by Jesus in the New Testament. "And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart": This signifies the importance of internalizing God's commandments, letting them guide one's thoughts, desires, and intentions. It's about making God's word a fundamental part of one's inner life. "And you shall teach them diligently to your children": Passing down the faith from one generation to the next is crucial in Catholic tradition. Parents are entrusted with the responsibility of educating their children in the ways of God, ensuring that the knowledge and love of God are transmitted through the family. "And shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise": This emphasizes the continual nature of teaching and learning about God. Faith is not just for certain times or places but permeates every aspect of life from everyday conversations at home to moments of rest and activity. "And you shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes": This imagery suggests the importance of keeping God's commandments close at hand and always before one's eyes, symbolizing a constant awareness and mindfulness of God's presence and teachings. "And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates": This signifies the outward manifestation of one's faith, making it visible to others. It's a reminder that the home should be a place where God's commandments are honored and respected, and where His presence is welcomed. Overall, this passage highlights the holistic nature of the Catholic faith, encompassing both internal devotion and outward expression, as well as the importance of passing down the faith through generations and integrating it into every aspect of life. In this episode, we'll explore how these teachings intersect and inspire us to deepen our relationship with God, surrendering ourselves completely to His divine will, and allowing His grace to transform us from within. Whether you're seeking to strengthen your prayer life, grow in faith, or simply draw closer to God, this podcast offers timeless insights rooted in the rich tradition of Catholic spirituality. Join us as we journey together in living out the call to love and serve the Lord with all our heart, soul, and might.

We delve into the profound concept of sanctity through the lens of St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Thomas More. How beautiful it is to trust in God's providence, knowing that He guards us from harm and guides our every step. Yet, in the intricate garden of souls, God invites us to participate actively in the cultivation of sanctity, as St. Therese of Lisieux eloquently expressed. St. Therese compares the role of spiritual directors to that of skilled gardeners. Just as a gardener tends to delicate plants, nurturing them with care and wisdom, so too do spiritual directors nurture souls, guiding them toward spiritual growth and holiness. St. Therese acknowledges that God can sanctify souls without human assistance, but He often chooses to work through others, inviting them to participate in His divine plan. “How many souls might reach a high degree of sanctity if properly directed from the first. I know God can sanctify souls without help, but just as He gives the gardener the skill to tend rare and delicate plants while fertilizing them Himself, so He wishes to use others in His cultivation of souls. What would happen if the gardener were so clumsy that he could not graft his trees properly, or knew so little about them that he wanted to make a peach tree bear roses?” St. Therese of Lisieux Reflecting on St. Therese's analogy, let's consider the significance of our role as spiritual guides. Are we attentive gardeners, equipped with the knowledge and skill to nurture souls toward sanctity? Or do we risk being clumsy gardeners, lacking the understanding or humility to effectively cultivate spiritual growth? Now let me break this down: "How many souls might reach a high degree of sanctity if properly directed from the first." St. Therese acknowledges the importance of proper spiritual guidance from the beginning of one's spiritual journey. She suggests that with the right direction, many souls could attain a deep level of sanctity, indicating the significance of spiritual direction in the Catholic tradition. "I know God can sanctify souls without help..." St. Therese humbly acknowledges that God is capable of sanctifying souls without human assistance. This statement emphasizes the sovereignty and omnipotence of God in the process of sanctification. "...but just as He gives the gardener the skill to tend rare and delicate plants while fertilizing them Himself..." Here, St. Therese uses the metaphor of a gardener to illustrate God's collaboration with human agents in the work of sanctification. Like a gardener who tends to delicate plants, God equips spiritual directors with the skill and knowledge necessary for nurturing souls, while still playing an active role in their growth. "...so He wishes to use others in His cultivation of souls." St. Therese emphasizes God's desire to involve others in the process of sanctification. While He could accomplish this task alone, He chooses to work through human instruments, highlighting the importance of community and cooperation in the spiritual life. "What would happen if the gardener were so clumsy that he could not graft his trees properly, or knew so little about them that he wanted to make a peach tree bear roses?" In this rhetorical question, St. Therese highlights the potential consequences of inadequate spiritual direction. Just as a clumsy gardener may harm the plants under his care, improper spiritual guidance can hinder the spiritual growth of souls, leading them away from their intended path of sanctity. Overall, St. Therese's quote underscores the significance of spiritual direction in the Catholic tradition, while also emphasizing God's role as the ultimate source of sanctification. It serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, cooperation with God's grace, and the need for knowledgeable and attentive spiritual guides in nurturing souls towards holiness. Now lets turn to St. Thomas More "I will simply counsel every man and woman to beware of even the very least speck of [pride], which seems to me to be the mere delight and liking of ourselves for anything whatsoever that either is in us or outwardly belongs to us." St. Thomas More offers a sobering reminder of the dangers of pride, cautioning us against even the slightest inclination towards self-centeredness. He compares pride to a speck of dust that, if left unchecked, can tarnish our spiritual landscape and hinder our ability to serve as faithful gardeners of souls. Let's break down this quote from St. Thomas More from a traditional Catholic perspective: "I will simply counsel every man and woman to beware of even the very least speck of [pride]..." St. Thomas More begins by emphasizing the importance of vigilance against pride. He suggests that even the smallest trace of pride, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should not be taken lightly. This reflects the traditional Catholic understanding that pride is a spiritual vice that can subtly infiltrate the soul and lead to various other sins. "...which seems to me to be the mere delight and liking of ourselves for anything whatsoever that either is in us or outwardly belongs to us." St. Thomas More defines pride as the excessive delight or attachment to anything within oneself or outwardly possessed. This definition aligns with the Catholic understanding of pride as an inflated sense of self-importance, which can manifest in various forms such as arrogance, vanity, or self-centeredness. Overall, St. Thomas More's quote serves as a cautionary reminder for Catholics to remain vigilant against pride in all its forms. It highlights the importance of humility, self-awareness, and detachment from worldly possessions or achievements in the spiritual life. By heeding this counsel, individuals can strive for greater holiness and closer conformity to the teachings of Christ. Now lets wrap this episode up with the a verse from Psalm 121:5-8, reminding us of God's constant presence and protection: "The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." Let's break down Psalm 121:5-8 from a traditional Catholic perspective: "The Lord is your keeper..." This line emphasizes the role of God as the protector and guardian of His people. In the Catholic tradition, God's providential care for His children is a central tenet of faith. This verse reminds Catholics of the loving and watchful presence of God in their lives, guiding and safeguarding them along their journey. "...the Lord is your shade on your right hand." The imagery of God being a shade on one's right hand symbolizes His close proximity and constant support. In the scorching heat of life's trials and challenges, God provides refuge and relief, offering comfort and strength to His faithful followers. "The sun shall not smite you by day, nor the moon by night." Here, the psalmist assures believers that God's protection is comprehensive and enduring. Regardless of the time or circumstance, God's watchful gaze never wavers. This verse underscores the idea of God's omnipotence and His ability to shield His people from all forms of harm or danger. "The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life." This line reinforces the theme of divine protection and preservation. God is not only capable of safeguarding His people from physical harm but also from spiritual evils. In the Catholic tradition, believers trust in God's grace to deliver them from sin and lead them on the path of righteousness. "The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." The psalm concludes with an affirmation of God's enduring care and faithfulness. His watchful presence extends beyond the present moment, encompassing every aspect of life's journey. This verse instills a sense of confidence and trust in God's providence, reassuring Catholics of His steadfast love and protection for all eternity. Overall, Psalm 121:5-8 serves as a powerful reminder for Catholics of God's constant presence, protection, and providential care in their lives. It encourages believers to place their trust and confidence in Him, knowing that He will faithfully guide them through every circumstance and into eternity. Lets use these profound insights, let us strive to emulate the humility and wisdom of St. Therese and St. Thomas More. Let us be diligent gardeners, tending to the souls entrusted to our care with love and reverence. And let us remain ever mindful of God's grace, knowing that He is the ultimate Gardener, guiding us all towards the fullness of sanctity. Thank you for joining me and please Tune in next time as we continue to explore the timeless wisdom of the Catholic faith. Until then, may God bless you and keep you in His loving care. Now go out there and convert somebody. Good day!

We delve into the timeless wisdom of our faith, drawing from the saints and Scriptures to illuminate our path towards a deeper relationship with God. We will use the words of St. Gemma Galgani, St. Augustine, and the Book of Ecclesiastes. So lets start with St. Gemma Galgani "Oh, my soul, how much longer do you wish to be so stingy with Jesus? Why so negligent towards Jesus who made You? Why so lazy towards Jesus who redeemed you? Who do you want to love, if you do not want to love Jesus?" This quote pierce through the layers of our complacency, forcing us to reevaluate our priorities. In a world filled with distractions and fleeting pleasures, it's easy to forget the one who loved us first, the one who redeemed us with his own blood. From a traditional Catholic perspective, this quote from St. Gemma Galgani is a call to rekindle the flame of love and devotion to Jesus Christ. It reflects the belief that Jesus is the source of all grace and salvation, and that neglecting or being indifferent to Him is a grave spiritual error. In Catholic teaching, Jesus is not just a historical figure or a distant deity, but the living Son of God who intimately loves each soul. let's break down this quote from St. Gemma Galgani into its key components from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Oh, my soul, how much longer do you wish to be so stingy with Jesus?" This phrase speaks to the soul's reluctance or hesitation to fully give itself to Jesus. In the Catholic tradition, the soul is seen as the immortal essence of a person, created by God for union with Him. Being "stingy" with Jesus implies holding back or withholding one's love and devotion from Him. It suggests a lack of generosity in giving oneself entirely to Christ, who is deserving of our complete surrender and trust. "Why so negligent towards Jesus who made You?" Here, St. Gemma highlights the relationship between the soul and its Creator. In Catholic theology, God is the ultimate source of all life and existence. He created each soul out of love and with a specific purpose. Neglecting Jesus, who is the Second Person of the Trinity and the one through whom all things were made (cf. John 1:3), is akin to neglecting the very origin and sustainer of one's being. This negligence can manifest in various ways, such as failing to pray, ignoring God's commandments, or neglecting the sacraments. "Why so lazy towards Jesus who redeemed you?" St. Gemma emphasizes the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who, through His passion, death, and resurrection, redeemed humanity from sin and opened the way to eternal life. In traditional Catholic teaching, Christ's sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate act of love and mercy, offering salvation to all who believe in Him. Being "lazy" towards Jesus implies a lack of effort or commitment in responding to His saving grace. It suggests a complacency or indifference towards the profound gift of redemption that Christ offers freely to each person. "Who do you want to love, if you do not want to love Jesus?" This question challenges the soul to consider its ultimate priorities and desires. In the Catholic faith, love of God is the greatest commandment (cf. Matthew 22:37-38). All other loves and pursuits are meant to be ordered towards loving God above all else. St. Gemma's question underscores the fundamental importance of loving Jesus as the foundation of a meaningful and fulfilling life. To neglect or reject Jesus is to forsake the very source of true love, happiness, and fulfillment. In summary, St. Gemma's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective underscores the importance of wholeheartedly giving oneself to Jesus Christ, acknowledging Him as Creator and Redeemer, and prioritizing love for Him above all else. It calls the soul to examine its relationship with Jesus and to strive for greater love, devotion, and commitment in response to His infinite love and mercy. Now lets turn to St. Augustine, resembles the call of St. Paul, by reminding us that we, the chosen of God, are called to confound the strong, to shine as beacons of light in a world shrouded in darkness. He said: “But you, ‘a chosen generation’, weak things of the world, who have forsaken all things, so that you may follow the Lord, go after him, and confound the strong; go after him, you beautiful feet, and shine in the firmament so that the heavens may declare his glory . . . Shine over the whole earth, and let the day, brightened by the sun, utter unto day speech of wisdom, and let the night, shining with the moon, declare to the night the word of knowledge . . . Run into every place, O you holy fires, you beautiful fires! You are the light of the world, and you are not put under a measure. He to whom you have held fast has been exalted, and he has exalted you. Run forth, and make it known to all nations.” break down this passage from St. Augustine's perspective into its key components from a traditional Catholic viewpoint: "But you, ‘a chosen generation’, weak things of the world..." Here, St. Augustine addresses the Christian faithful, referring to them as a "chosen generation." This echoes biblical language found in 1 Peter 2:9, "But you are a chosen generation, a kingly priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people: that you may declare his virtues, who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.". In traditional Catholic teaching, the Church is seen as the mystical body of Christ, composed of diverse members chosen by God for His purposes. St. Augustine acknowledges the humility and apparent weakness of these believers in the eyes of the world, contrasting it with the strength and wisdom of God. "...who have forsaken all things, so that you may follow the Lord..." St. Augustine emphasizes the radical commitment required of discipleship. In the Catholic tradition, following the Lord often involves detachment from worldly pursuits and attachments in order to prioritize the kingdom of God. This echoes Jesus' call to his disciples to leave everything and follow Him (cf. Luke 9:23-25). "And he said to all: If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it; for he that shall lose his life for my sake, shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, and cast away himself?" For Catholics, forsaking all things includes not only material possessions but also surrendering one's will and desires to God's will. "...go after him, and confound the strong..." Here, St. Augustine encourages believers to pursue Christ zealously and to confound the worldly wisdom and power structures. In traditional Catholic theology, the followers of Christ are called to be countercultural and to challenge the values and norms of the world that contradict the Gospel. This may involve standing up for truth, defending the faith, and living lives of holiness and integrity that serve as a witness to others. "...go after him, you beautiful feet, and shine in the firmament so that the heavens may declare his glory..." St. Augustine uses poetic language to describe the mission of believers as shining lights in the world. In Catholic teaching, the faithful are called to be witnesses to the truth and love of Christ, illuminating the darkness of sin and ignorance with the light of the Gospel. This imagery highlights the transformative power of Christ's grace working through His Church to bring about the glorification of God's name. "...Run into every place, O you holy fires, you beautiful fires! You are the light of the world..." St. Augustine portrays believers as holy fires, symbolizing the divine presence and action of the Holy Spirit within them. This imagery evokes the biblical imagery of fire as a symbol of God's purifying and empowering presence (cf. Acts 2:1-4). In traditional Catholic spirituality, the faithful are called to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to spread the light of Christ to all nations, embodying the mission of the Church to evangelize and bring salvation to the world. "And when the days of the Pentecost were accomplished, they were all together in one place: And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a mighty wind coming, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them parted tongues as it were of fire, and it sat upon every one of them: And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they began to speak with divers tongues, according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak." Here's a breakdown of the key elements: Days of Pentecost: The passage begins by noting that the days of Pentecost were fulfilled. Pentecost was a Jewish festival held fifty days after Passover, celebrating the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai. It was during this Jewish festival that the events described in Acts 2 occurred. All together in one place: The Apostles and other disciples were gathered together in one place. This gathering represents the unity of the early Christian community, which was essential for the reception of the Holy Spirit. Sound from heaven, mighty wind: Suddenly, there came a sound from heaven, likened to a mighty wind. This signifies the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. Wind is often associated with the Spirit in biblical imagery (e.g., Genesis 1:2). Tongues of fire: Tongues resembling flames appeared and rested upon each person present. This imagery symbolizes the purifying and illuminating presence of the Holy Spirit. It harks back to the imagery of fire as a symbol of divine presence and purification (e.g., the burning bush in Exodus 3). Filled with the Holy Ghost: All those present were filled with the Holy Spirit. This indicates the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within each believer, empowering them for mission and ministry. Speaking in tongues: As a result of being filled with the Holy Spirit, they began to speak in other languages, or "tongues," that they had not previously known. This miraculous ability enabled them to proclaim the Gospel to people from various nations who were gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost. In summary, this passage underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who empowers and equips the early Christian community for their mission of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth. It also highlights the universality of the Gospel message, as people from different nations and languages are able to hear and understand it through the work of the Spirit. We must acknowledge our own frailty, as articulated in the Book of Ecclesiastes: "Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins." It's a humbling realization that despite our best intentions, we are prone to stumble and fall. However, the key lies in not allowing our past mistakes to define us or derail us from our mission. Instead, we are called to rise again, to heed the wisdom of Ecclesiastes: "Do not give heed to all the things that men say, lest you hear your servant cursing you; your heart knows that many times you have yourself cursed others." Our journey of faith is marked by both triumphs and trials, yet through it all, God remains steadfast in his love for us. So let us embrace the challenge laid before us, to love Jesus with all our heart, to shine as radiant witnesses of his glory, and to persevere in the face of adversity. For in doing so, we fulfill our purpose as sons and daughters of the Most High, bringing light into the darkness and hope into despair. Thank you for joining me today and I hope the words of the saints and Scriptures continue to inspire and guide you on your journey of faith. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly. Now go and convert somebody.

We delve deep into the wisdom of traditional Catholic teachings. Today, we embark on a journey guided by the profound words of St. Peter Damian, St. John of the Cross, and the Apostle Paul, as we explore the theme of humility and divine love. St. Peter Damian, a Doctor of the Church, reminds us that in times of trial and tribulation, we must not lose hope. He encourages us to embrace serenity and joy, allowing the light of our spirit to shine forth even amidst adversity. This message is timeless, echoing the sentiments of countless saints who faced challenges with unwavering faith. "Therefore, my brother, scorned as you are by men, lashed as it were by God, do not despair. Do not be depressed. Do not let your weakness make you impatient. Instead, let the serenity of your spirit shine through your face. Let the joy of your mind burst forth. Let words of thanks break from your lips." let's break down this quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Therefore, my brother, scorned as you are by men, lashed as it were by God, do not despair.": Here, the speaker acknowledges the hardships faced by the listener. They recognize that the listener may be scorned or rejected by society and experiencing difficulties that feel as though they are coming from God's hand. However, the speaker urges against despair, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope and faith in God's providence. "Do not be depressed. Do not let your weakness make you impatient.": The speaker advises against falling into despondency or allowing one's weaknesses to lead to impatience. Instead, there is a call to resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges. This aligns with the Catholic teaching of enduring trials with patience and trust in God's plan. "Instead, let the serenity of your spirit shine through your face.": Despite the hardships, the speaker encourages the listener to maintain inner peace and serenity. This reflects the Catholic emphasis on cultivating inner peace through prayer, trust in God, and detachment from worldly concerns. "Let the joy of your mind burst forth.": In the midst of adversity, the speaker urges the listener to cultivate joy in their mind. This joy is rooted in faith and trust in God's goodness, even when circumstances may seem bleak. It echoes the Catholic teaching that joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit and can coexist with suffering. "Let words of thanks break from your lips.": Gratitude is emphasized as a response to trials. Despite the challenges faced, the speaker encourages the listener to express gratitude to God for His blessings and for the opportunity to grow spiritually through adversity. This aligns with the Catholic practice of gratitude as an essential aspect of the spiritual life. Overall, this quote encapsulates the traditional Catholic perspective on facing adversity with faith, hope, and gratitude, trusting in God's providence and maintaining inner peace and joy even in the midst of trials. St. John of the Cross, renowned for his spiritual depth, provides us with further insight into the nature of our actions. He emphasizes that the quality of our deeds is not measured by their grandeur, but by the love with which they are performed. Whether big or small, every action becomes sanctified when it is infused with pure love for God and others. Imagine the scene described by St. Bernard, where angels meticulously record the merits of each monk during their prayers. The symbolism behind this imagery is profound. It underscores the importance of fervor, goodwill, and attentiveness in our spiritual endeavors. Our actions are not merely observed by earthly eyes but are noted by heavenly beings, reflecting the eternal significance of our choices. Yet, amidst the virtuous, there are those who remain indifferent or distracted, as depicted by the angels' sorrowful silence. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of spiritual neglect and the need for repentance and renewal. Let's break down this quote from a traditional Catholic perspective: “‘The Lord measures our perfection not by the number and greatness of the works we do for Him, but by our manner of doing them. And this manner is only the love of God with which, and for which, we do them.": This part emphasizes the importance of intention and motivation behind our actions. It's not merely the outward appearance or grandeur of our deeds that matter to God, but the love and purity of heart with which we perform them. This aligns with the Catholic teaching that even the smallest acts, when done with love for God and neighbor, have great merit in His eyes. "They are more perfect as they are done with more pure and perfect love, and as they are less mingled with the thoughts of pleasure or praise in this life or the other (St. John of the Cross).’": St. John of the Cross highlights the significance of purity of intention. Actions done solely for the sake of pleasing God, without seeking personal gain or recognition, are considered more perfect in the eyes of God. This echoes Jesus' teachings on doing good deeds in secret (Matthew 6:1-4). "When St. Bernard was assisting one night at Matins, he saw some angels who were carefully noting down the merit of each of the monks.": This part of the quote provides a vivid imagery of St. Bernard witnessing angels observing the monks during their prayers. It symbolizes the divine scrutiny over human actions and intentions. "The merit of those who were praying with much fervor, they set down in golden characters; of those with less fervor, in silver characters; of those with good will, but without affection, in ink; of those with sloth and drowsiness, in water.": The angels' method of recording the monks' merits illustrates the varying degrees of fervor, goodwill, and commitment in their prayers. This imagery underscores the importance of sincerity and devotion in spiritual practices. "But as to those who were in mortal sin or voluntarily distracted, they wrote nothing, but, standing motionless, they lamented their blindness.”: The angels' response to those in mortal sin or voluntary distraction signifies the absence of merit in their actions due to their spiritual state. Instead of recording their deeds, the angels express sorrow over their spiritual blindness, highlighting the grave consequences of sin and spiritual negligence. Overall, this quote emphasizes the centrality of love, purity of intention, and sincerity in our actions from a traditional Catholic perspective. It underscores the idea that true spiritual merit comes not from the external display of religious practices but from the interior disposition of the heart. As we use these teachings, let us turn to Scripture, specifically 1 Corinthians 1:26-29. "Consider your own calling, brothers. Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, so that no human being might boast before God." The Apostle Paul reminds us of God's remarkable way of working through the seemingly insignificant and the lowly. It is through humility that God chooses to reveal His power and wisdom, confounding the proud and exalting the humble. Reflecting on these passages, we are called to embrace humility and love as the guiding principles of our lives. Whether in times of triumph or adversity, let us remember that our worthiness is not determined by worldly standards but by our willingness to surrender to God's will and to love unconditionally. Let's break down this quote from 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 from a traditional Catholic perspective: "Consider your own calling, brothers.": The passage begins with an exhortation to reflect on one's own vocation or calling. In the context of traditional Catholicism, this could refer to one's baptismal call to holiness, as well as any specific vocations such as priesthood, religious life, or marriage. "Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.": Here, St. Paul highlights the humility of those to whom he is writing. He reminds them that according to worldly standards, they were not esteemed highly. This underscores the theme of God's preference for the humble and lowly. "Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong.": St. Paul contrasts human wisdom and strength with God's criteria for selection. God's ways are often contrary to human expectations. He often chooses those who are considered foolish or weak by the world's standards to accomplish His purposes, thereby demonstrating His power and wisdom. "And God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something.": This emphasizes God's preference for the lowly and despised. He selects individuals from humble backgrounds or marginalized communities to fulfill His divine plan. Through their lives and actions, God reveals the emptiness of human pride and worldly accomplishments. "So that no human being might boast before God.": The ultimate purpose of God's choice of the humble and weak is to prevent anyone from boasting in their own achievements before God. In traditional Catholic theology, boasting or pride is seen as a sin that separates us from God's grace. By choosing the lowly and despised, God reminds us of our dependence on Him and the need for humility in our relationship with Him and others. Overall, this passage highlights the traditional Catholic understanding of God's preference for the humble and lowly, as well as the importance of humility and dependence on God in the spiritual life. It challenges us to reevaluate our values and priorities in light of God's kingdom As we conclude our reflection, let us pray for the grace to cultivate humility and love in our hearts, following the example of the saints who have gone before us. May we, like them, shine forth as beacons of hope and instruments of God's mercy in a world yearning for His light. Thank you for joining me and until next time, may God bless you abundantly with His grace and peace. Now go out and convert somebody.

Walt: Welcome to CatholicReboot, where we explore timeless stories, teachings, and wisdom from the Catholic tradition. I'm your host, Walt, and today we bring you a beloved Catholic folk tale known as "The Legend of the Three Trees." Presented by Sharon. This story has been cherished for generations for its profound message of faith, purpose, and divine providence. Sharon: Hello, everyone. I heard this story in church. It beautifully tells a story of divine providence and shows how God’s will for our life is far better than we can even imagine. Now, it is just a fable passed down through generations, but it is still relevant today. Walt: Can you tell the story of The Legend of the Three Trees? Sharon: I would love to! Once upon a time, on a quiet hillside, three pine trees stood tall, each dreaming of a grand destiny. The first pine tree aspired to become a magnificent treasure chest, adorned with jewels and gold. The second pine tree longed to be fashioned into a mighty ship, sailing the vast oceans with kings and queens aboard. And the third pine tree simply desired to grow tall and point people towards God, seeking a noble purpose. As time passed, the trees grew strong, their dreams still vivid in their hearts. Until one day, woodcutters arrived, ready to cut down the trees and shape them into various forms. The first pine tree was humbled when it was transformed into a simple feeding trough, not the splendid treasure chest it had envisioned. The second pine tree felt a pang of disappointment as it became a modest fishing boat, far from the majestic ship it had hoped to be. But it was the fate of the third pine tree that puzzled it the most. It was cut into beams and left among a pile of lumber, seemingly forgotten and without purpose. Yet, as the story unfolds, we see that each tree was chosen for a divine plan far greater than their own dreams. The feeding trough, crafted from the first pine tree, cradled the newborn Jesus in a humble stable in Bethlehem. The tree realized that it held the greatest treasure of all the Savior of the world. The fishing boat, made from the second pine tree, became the vessel that carried Jesus and his disciples across the Sea of Galilee, spreading His teachings to the far corners of the earth. And the beams from the third pine tree were assembled into a cross. At first horrified, the tree came to understand that it was chosen for the most sacred of purposes to bear the weight of Christ's sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. In the end, all three trees realized that their dreams had been fulfilled in ways they never could have imagined. They had played a vital role in God's plan, demonstrating the power of faith, humility, and divine providence. As we reflect on the story of the three trees, let us remember that God's plans for us may not always align with our own ambitions. Yet, in His wisdom, He leads us to fulfill our true purpose and brings about greater blessings than we could ever envision. Walt: As we reflect on the story of the three trees, do you mind if I pulled a great saint into this as well? The words of St. Teresa of Ávila, who reminds us that "All things must come to the soul from its roots, from where it is planted." Just like these trees, our true fulfillment and purpose come from being deeply rooted in God's grace and His divine plan for us. Sharon do you mind breaking St Teresa’s quote down in comparison to the story of the three pines? Sharon: Sure. In addition, St Aquinas the great philosopher and theologian, saw God’s law reflected in the world (natural law) and it is revealed through scripture and tradition which is the divine law. St Augustine believed we were created by God and have an innate desire for Him. This desire for God is the root of our restlessness and yearning for something beyond ourselves. Soul's Roots and Planting: St. Teresa of Ávila speaks metaphorically about the soul having roots and being planted. In Catholic theology, the soul is understood as the spiritual essence of a person, created by God and endowed with intellect and free will. The metaphor of roots and planting suggests that the soul has a foundational source or origin, which is God Himself. This aligns with the Catholic belief that God is the creator and sustainer of all life, and that the soul finds its true fulfillment and nourishment in Him. All Things Must Come: St. Teresa emphasizes that all things must come to the soul from its roots. This implies that the soul's ultimate source of nourishment, growth, and fulfillment is found in its relationship with God. In a traditional Catholic perspective, this underscores the importance of seeking God as the primary source of grace, wisdom, and spiritual nourishment. Through prayer, sacraments, and a life of virtue, Catholics strive to deepen their union with God and allow His grace to transform their souls. Rootedness in God: St. Teresa's words remind Catholics of the importance of being firmly rooted in God through faith and prayer. Just as a tree draws nourishment and strength from its roots, so too does the soul find sustenance and strength in its connection to God. This echoes the biblical imagery of the righteous person being like a tree planted by streams of water, whose leaf does not wither (Psalm 1:3). In Catholic spirituality, cultivating a deep interior life rooted in God is essential for spiritual growth and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Divine Providence and Guidance: St. Teresa's quote also suggests a trust in God's providential care and guidance. As the soul remains rooted in God, it can trust that He will provide everything it needs for its spiritual journey and growth. This aligns with the Catholic belief in divine providence, the idea that God lovingly guides and sustains His creation, leading souls towards their ultimate fulfillment in Him. Overall, St. Teresa of Ávila's quote reminds Catholics of the importance of seeking God has the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment, growth, and fulfillment, and of trusting in His providential care and guidance for the soul's journey towards union with Him I would just like to add that I see the trees being humbled in this story. They were made into practical yet lesser things than they dreamed of being. I think we can all relate to that, right. So, be happy where God has put you in life. Although some of us do menial work like serving others or raising children who depend on us for every need…we all have a purpose. Learn from your state in life, teach the younger generation everyone has a purpose, in the end, we are doing nothing else but serving God. Do everything as if you were doing it for God. We never know where he will take us next. We never know who we are influencing. Walt: Very Good. Can you take us out with a prayer? Sharon: Can I use a prayer from St Francis in his “Canticle of the Sun”? "Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures, especially through my lord Brother Sun, who brings the day; and you give light through him. And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor! Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness. Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars;in the heavens you have made them, precious and beautiful." Walt: Thank you for joining us for this episode, we hope you've been inspired by the timeless wisdom of this beloved folk tale and St Teresa. Until next time as we continue to explore the richness of our Catholic teachings and traditions, May God bless you and keep you in His loving care. Now go out there and convert somebody. Good Day!

On April 8th there was a press conference by Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez explaining the Dignitas Infinita, which translates to "infinite dignity," is a recently released document by the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith [Vatican document on Human Dignity]. It emphasizes the inherent and inviolable dignity of all human beings, regardless of circumstance. Before I get into this and further I want to play you a clip from the Press Conference. What was highly interesting was before the Cardinal explained the document he warned everyone by using cannon law that states not to question of the Holy Father. What he doesn’t say “is unless it goes against the Hermeneutics of Continuity” very crafty and one of the reasons Catholics simply do not trust anything that comes out of the Vatican. They simply are not to be trusted without deep dives in what they say with the doctrines of the faith. So sad this Cardinal is in charge of the doctrine of the Faith. Scary, scary, Here are some key points about the document: Core teaching: Dignitas Infinita reaffirms the Catholic belief that every human person is created in the image and likeness of God, thus possessing inherent dignity that transcends social status, physical ability, or any other condition. Areas of concern: The document identifies various threats to human dignity, including abortion, euthanasia, human trafficking, war, poverty, and certain practices related to procreation such as surrogacy. It also addresses what it terms as "gender ideology" and sex changes. Response to challenges: The document doesn't just identify issues but offers a message of hope, underscoring the Church's belief in the power of Christ's message to defend human dignity. Dignitas Infinita has been met with mixed reactions. Some praise its focus on protecting the vulnerable, while others criticize its positions on gender identity and certain reproductive rights. Here is the detail what it says about the Core Teachings? Dignitas Infinita dives into the core teaching of human dignity through the lens of Christian anthropology. Here's a breakdown of its key points on this concept: Intrinsic and Inalienable: The document emphasizes that human dignity is not something bestowed upon us by others or earned through achievements. It's intrinsic to every person from the moment of conception until natural death. Dignity can't be taken away or lessened based on circumstances. Basis in God's Image: Dignitas Infinita grounds human dignity in the belief that we are created "in the image and likeness of God" (Genesis 1:27). This inherent God-given quality gives every person immeasurable worth. Equality in Dignity: The document underscores that all human beings possess this equal dignity, regardless of factors like race, gender, ethnicity, age, ability, or sexual orientation. Dignitas Infinita goes on to explain the implications of this core teaching. It argues that recognizing this inherent dignity compels us to: Respect the Rights of All: We have a moral obligation to respect the fundamental rights of every person, including the right to life, from conception to natural death. Promote Social Justice: Understanding human dignity as equal for all calls us to work towards a just society that protects the vulnerable and promotes the well-being of all. Live with Moral Responsibility: Recognizing the dignity within ourselves and others motivates us to live with moral responsibility and compassion. Can you provide the detail what it says about Areas of concern. Dignitas Infinita identifies a range of issues considered threats to human dignity. Here's a closer look at some of these areas of concern: Life Issues: The document strongly condemns abortion, euthanasia, and assisted suicide. It views these practices as directly violating the right to life, which it considers inherent to human dignity. Human Exploitation: Dignitas Infinita criticizes practices that exploit or objectify human beings. This includes human trafficking, slavery, prostitution, and unfair working conditions that treat people as mere tools for profit. Bioethical Concerns: The document raises concerns about certain assisted reproductive technologies. It views practices like surrogacy as potentially undermining human procreation and disrespecting the dignity of both the child and the woman involved. Gender and Sexuality: Dignitas Infinita addresses what it terms "gender theory," which it sees as challenging the biological differences between men and women. The document also disapproves of sex changes, arguing that they go against a person's God-given sexual identity. It's important to understand that these are just some of the areas Dignitas Infinita explores. The document delves deeper into the reasoning behind the Church's positions on these issues. It's important to note that these positions are based on Catholic theological and philosophical beliefs, and may be debated by those with different viewpoints. Dignitas Infinita acknowledges the gravity of the challenges it identifies but doesn't simply offer condemnation. Here's a closer look at the document's message of hope in response to these challenges: Reaffirming the Power of Christ's Message: The document emphasizes that the core message of Christianity offers guidance and strength in defending human dignity. It highlights the importance of love, compassion, and solidarity in overcoming these challenges. Promoting a Culture of Life: Dignitas Infinita calls for fostering a "culture of life" that respects and protects human dignity from conception to natural death. This involves promoting education, social support systems, and healthcare access to safeguard the vulnerable. The Role of the Church: The document sees the Church as having a crucial role in defending human dignity. It calls for the Church to be a voice for the voiceless, advocating for just laws and policies that protect the vulnerable. Importance of Dialogue: While outlining the Church's teachings, Dignitas Infinita emphasizes the importance of open dialogue with those who hold different views. It encourages respectful conversation to find common ground in protecting human dignity. Dignitas Infinita doesn't provide specific action plans for each challenge. Instead, it offers a framework based on Catholic beliefs to guide individual and communal responses. It emphasizes the importance of working within society and collaborating with others who share the goal of protecting human dignity, even if they may have different viewpoints on achieving it. Now lets put on our Traditional Catholic Glasses when viewing this document. Pope Pius X, known for his staunch opposition to Modernism, likely would have had mixed reactions to the documents of Vatican II. Here's a breakdown: Areas of Alignment: Liturgical Reform: Pius X himself instituted some liturgical reforms, emphasizing active participation of the faithful. Areas of Potential Disagreement: Modernity: Pius X condemned attempts to reconcile faith with modern thought through his encyclical Pascendi Dominici Gregis. Vatican II, in documents like Gaudium et Spes, acknowledges the importance of engaging with the modern world, which would have raised great concerns for Pius X. Ecumenism: Vatican II's emphasis on dialogue with other religions (Nostra Aetate) could be seen as a departure from his focus on strengthening Catholicism internally. "In Our Time" in Latin, is a significant declaration issued by the Second Vatican Council of the Catholic Church in 1965. Overall Viewpoint: Pius X would have been wary of elements that seemed to embrace modern ideas or downplay traditional Catholic distinctiveness. Additional Points: The Catholic Church emphasizes continuity in its teachings. Vatican II mentality aims to present them in a way relevant to the modern world (Hermeneutics of Continuity). Pius X's encyclicals Pascendi Dominici Gregis and Lamentabili Sane The concept of Hermeneutics of Continuity The Hermeneutics of Continuity argues that the Church's teachings develop over time, but this development doesn't contradict what came before. It's more like an ongoing story with new chapters that add depth and nuance, but without fundamentally changing the core message. This approach stands in contrast to the Hermeneutics of Rupture, which views certain pronouncements, particularly those of the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), as a radical break from the past. Why is it important? The Hermeneutics of Continuity is important because it provides a framework for understanding how the Church's teachings can evolve while still maintaining a sense of coherence and faithfulness to tradition. This is especially relevant in times of change, when new questions and challenges arise.

We delve into the profound insights of two remarkable saints: St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Catherine of Siena. Through their words, we'll explore the themes of love, virtue, and overcoming temptation. St. Therese of Lisieux once said, "Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing." In this simple yet profound statement, she encapsulates the essence of Christian spirituality. Love is the foundation upon which all our actions must be built. Without love, our deeds lack meaning and purpose. St. Therese of Lisieux, "Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing," from a traditional Catholic perspective: Context of St. Therese of Lisieux: St. Therese of Lisieux, also known as "The Little Flower," was a French Carmelite nun who lived in the late 19th century. She is renowned for her spiritual writings, particularly her autobiography "The Story of a Soul," which has become a classic of Christian spirituality. Emphasis on Love: St. Therese's quote underscores the primacy of love in the Christian life. Love, understood as selfless and sacrificial, is the central commandment of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 22:37-40, Jesus teaches that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and to love one's neighbor as oneself. Deeds Without Love: St. Therese warns that deeds, no matter how impressive or outwardly virtuous they may seem, are meaningless if they lack love. In Catholic theology, acts of charity and virtue are only truly meritorious when they flow from a heart filled with love for God and neighbor. Without this love, even acts of apparent goodness are devoid of spiritual value. Theological Foundation: This concept is deeply rooted in Catholic theology, particularly in the writings of St. Paul. In 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the "love chapter," St. Paul emphasizes the surpassing importance of love over spiritual gifts, knowledge, and acts of charity. He concludes by stating that without love, these things are nothing. Implications for Spiritual Life: From a traditional Catholic perspective, St. Therese's words challenge believers to examine the motivations behind their actions. It's not enough to perform outward acts of piety or service; one must cultivate a heart transformed by love. This requires a deep interior life of prayer, humility, and dependence on God's grace. Mystical Union with God: St. Therese's spirituality, often referred to as the "Little Way," emphasizes the importance of small acts of love and self-sacrifice offered to God with great love. She believed that even the most mundane tasks, when done with love, can lead to union with God. In summary, St. Therese of Lisieux's quote encapsulates a fundamental truth of the Christian faith: that love is the essence of true holiness, and without it, even the most outwardly virtuous deeds are meaningless in the eyes of God. But what about when we encounter trials and temptations in our journey of faith? St. Catherine of Siena provides us with invaluable insight. She reports a dialogue with Our Lord, in which He reveals His purpose in allowing the Devil to tempt and trouble His creatures. Our Lord assures us that He has equipped us with the strength of will, fortified in the Blood of His Son, to overcome these challenges. “I’ve appointed the Devil to tempt and to trouble My creatures in this life [St. Catherine of Siena reports that Our Lord said to her]. I’ve done this, not so that My creatures will be overcome, but so that they may overcome, proving their virtue and receiving from Me the glory of victory. And no one should fear any battle or temptation of the Devil that may come to him, because I’ve made My creatures strong, and I’ve given them strength of will, fortified in the Blood of My Son. Neither the Devil nor any other creature can control this free will, because it’s yours, given to you by Me. By your own choice, then, you hold it or let it go if you please. It’s a weapon, and if you place it in the hands of the Devil, it right away becomes a knife that he’ll use to stab and kill you. On the other hand, if you don’t place this knife that is your will into the hands of the Devil—that is, if you don’t consent to his temptations and harassments—you will never be injured by the guilt of sin in any temptation. Instead, you’ll actually be strengthened by the temptation, as long as you open the eyes of your mind to see My love, and to understand why I allowed you to be tempted: so you could develop virtue by having it proved. My love permits these temptations, for the Devil is weak. He can do nothing by himself unless I allow him. So I let him tempt you because I love you, not because I hate you. I want you to conquer, not to be conquered, and to come to a perfect knowledge of yourself and of Me.” let's break down this quote attributed to Our Lord as reported by St. Catherine of Siena from a traditional Catholic perspective: Divine Providence: The quote reveals the belief in God's sovereignty over all things, including the activities of the Devil. It suggests that God permits the Devil to tempt and trouble humanity, not for their destruction but for their spiritual growth and ultimately for His glory. Purpose of Temptation: According to the quote, the purpose of allowing temptation is not for humans to be overcome by sin but for them to overcome temptation, thereby proving their virtue and receiving glory from God for their victory. This aligns with the Catholic understanding that trials and temptations can be occasions for spiritual growth and sanctification. Strength and Free Will: The quote emphasizes the strength and freedom of human will, which is a gift from God. It asserts that no external force, including the Devil, can control one's free will unless it is willingly surrendered. This underscores the Catholic teaching on the dignity of the human person and the importance of personal responsibility in moral decision-making. Consequences of Choice: The quote vividly illustrates the consequences of choosing to either resist or succumb to temptation. It uses imagery of a weapon, symbolizing one's will, which can either be used to resist the Devil or handed over to him. This echoes the Catholic understanding of the spiritual battle between good and evil and the importance of vigilance and perseverance in resisting temptation. God's Love and Purpose: Throughout the quote, there is an underlying theme of God's love for humanity. God permits temptation not out of hatred but out of love, with the desire for humanity to conquer sin and grow in virtue. This reflects the Catholic belief in God's providential care and His desire for the salvation and spiritual flourishing of all people. Development of Virtue: The quote suggests that through facing and overcoming temptation, individuals can develop and strengthen their virtues. This aligns with the Catholic understanding of the moral life as a journey of growth in holiness, where trials and challenges serve as opportunities for spiritual advancement. In summary, this quote from St. Catherine of Siena, reporting Our Lord's words, provides profound insights into the Catholic understanding of temptation, free will, and God's providential care. It encourages believers to trust in God's love, to exercise their free will wisely, and to persevere in the face of temptation, knowing that through God's grace, they can overcome and grow in virtue. It's crucial to understand that temptations are not meant to defeat us but to refine us. St. Catherine reminds us that our free will is a powerful weapon, capable of resisting the Devil's advances. By choosing to align our will with God's, we render the Devil powerless. St. Catherine's words echo the wisdom of Isaiah: "Hearken to me, you who pursue deliverance, you who seek the Lord; look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were digged." We are called to remember our origins, to recognize that we are hewn from the rock of God's love and formed by His hand. let's break down this quote from Isaiah 51:1 from a traditional Catholic perspective: Call to Attention: The quote begins with an imperative command, "Hearken to me," indicating that the speaker (presumably God) is calling for the attention of the listener. In the Catholic tradition, this call to attention often serves as an invitation to listen to God's word and heed His teachings. Seekers of Deliverance: The quote addresses those who are actively pursuing deliverance and seeking the Lord. In the Catholic perspective, this could refer to believers who are seeking salvation, liberation from sin, or deliverance from various trials and challenges in life. It underscores the importance of seeking God earnestly and wholeheartedly. Metaphor of Rock and Quarry: The quote employs metaphorical language, urging the listener to "look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were digged." In the Catholic interpretation, the "rock" symbolizes God as the source of strength, stability, and foundation. Just as a rock provides firm ground to stand on, God is the unchanging and dependable anchor of our lives. Divine Origin and Identity: By urging the listener to "look to the rock from which you were hewn," the quote emphasizes the divine origin and identity of the listener. In the Catholic understanding, human beings are created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27), and our true identity and purpose are found in our relationship with Him. Call to Rememberance: The quote encourages reflection on one's origins and roots. It invites believers to remember and acknowledge God's role as the creator and sustainer of their lives. This act of remembrance fosters gratitude, humility, and trust in God's providence. Spiritual Nourishment and Growth: The metaphor of the quarry from which one was dug suggests a process of formation and shaping. In the Catholic perspective, this can symbolize the spiritual journey of transformation and growth in holiness. Through prayer, sacraments, scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, believers are continually formed and shaped into the likeness of Christ. Encouragement and Assurance: Overall, the quote from Isaiah 51:1 serves as both an encouragement and a reminder to those who seek deliverance and pursue the Lord. It reminds them of their divine origin, identity, and the steadfastness of God's love and providence. It calls them to trust in God's faithfulness and to find strength and stability in Him amidst life's challenges. In summary, from a traditional Catholic perspective, Isaiah 51:1 is a powerful reminder of God's role as the source of strength, stability, and identity for believers. It calls them to remember their divine origin, seek the Lord earnestly, and find assurance and guidance in Him. In the face of temptation, let us turn our gaze to the source of our strength the love of God. Let us draw upon the virtues instilled within us through His grace. By doing so, we not only overcome temptations but also grow in holiness and virtue. As we navigate the trials of life, may we take solace in the words of St. Catherine: "I want you to conquer, not to be conquered, and to come to a perfect knowledge of yourself and of Me." Through love and virtue, we can triumph over adversity and draw ever closer to God. Thank you for joining us on this journey of exploration and reflection. Until next time, may God's love and grace illuminate your path. God bless.

Walt: Welcome back to another episode of Catholic Reboot and I'm your host, Walt, and joining me as always is my esteemed co-host, Nancy. By the way, I can’t wait for you and Sharon to do another episode together. Nancy: Hey everyone, glad to be back and yes Sharon and I are overdue. Walt: Today, we're delving into a topic that's as old as humanity itself but still holds immense relevance in our modern world: the power of words. We'll be exploring the profound wisdom in two quotes, one from St. Sisoes and the other St. Anselm of Canterbury. Nancy: Indeed, Walt. These quotes remind us of the importance of controlling our speech, being mindful of what we say, and recognizing the impact our words can have on ourselves and others. Before starting with the quote from St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us): let me tell you who St Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) was: St. Sisoes, (sis-oy’-us) also known as Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) the Great or Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) of Egypt, was a Catholic monk and Desert Father who lived during the fourth century AD. Walt, I know how through Fr Abernathy you have gained a great love for the writings of the Desert Fathers like St Cassian (like glass) as well. Well in that same spirit, St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) is revered as one of the great ascetics and spiritual figures of early Catholicism. (practiced severe self-discipline and abstention) Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) was born in Egypt, around the year 330 AD, and he spent much of his life in the desert wilderness of Scetis (see’-tiece’)(or Wadi El Natrun), an area known for its thriving monastic communities. He was a contemporary of other renowned Desert Fathers from that time such as St. Anthony the Great, St. Pachomius, and St. Macarius of Egypt. All of whom are worth looking up if you have the time. And I’d like to quickly pass along some great advice I got from one of my teachers - while you are reading, if you encounter a word, name, phrase, etc. that you don’t know, stop and take the time to look it up - it sounds tiresome, I get it, but trust me - it makes a difference in your comprehension and you’re learning something new. In any case, in continuing, the life of St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) was based on extreme humility, asceticism, and wisdom. According to tradition, he lived as a hermit for many years, devoting himself to prayer, fasting, and contemplation. He is said to have possessed great spiritual insight and the gift of discernment, which attracted many to seek his counsel. One famous story about St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) involves his encounter with a monk who had committed a grievous sin. Instead of condemning the monk, Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) wept for him, demonstrating his deep compassion and understanding of human frailty. St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) is also remembered for his humility. He is said to have lived in a small cell and practiced extreme self-denial, considering himself the worst of sinners despite his reputation for holiness. St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) died around the year 429 AD at an advanced age of 99 years old, having spent his life in prayer and asceticism. He is venerated as a saint with his feast day celebrated on July 6th. Throughout the centuries, St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) has been revered as a model of Catholic virtue, particularly for his humility, compassion, and devotion to God. His life and teachings continue to inspire Catholics seeking a deeper spiritual life. Now for the quote, "Exile means that a man should control his mouth." This quote speaks volumes about the significance of self-discipline in speech. In a world where words are often spoken impulsively and without consideration, St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) reminds us that true mastery lies in controlling the tongue. Walt: That's right, Nancy. Our words have the power to build or destroy, to heal or harm. Exercising restraint in speech allows us to cultivate a sense of inner peace and avoid unnecessary conflicts or regrets. Nancy: Precisely, Walt. Let me break this down even further: "Exile means that a man should control his mouth": This suggests that true exile, or separation from worldly distractions, involves exercising control over one's speech. In the context of traditional Catholic spirituality, it highlights the importance of discipline and self-mastery, particularly in the realm of communication. Application to our times: In today's culture of constant communication and social media, the need for controlling one's speech is as relevant as ever. The internet provides a platform for instantaneous expression, often leading to impulsive or thoughtless communication. St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) teaching challenges believers to cultivate inner discipline and mindfulness in their speech, resisting the temptation to engage in harmful or uncharitable discourse. Controlling the tongue: The Catholic tradition places significant emphasis on the power of the tongue and the importance of guarding one's speech. Scripture warns against the dangers of gossip, slander, and deceitful speech, urging believers to use their words for good rather than harm. Application to our times: In an era marked by online anonymity and the proliferation of misinformation, the need for controlling the tongue is paramount. St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) teaching encourages Catholics to exercise prudence and discernment in their online interactions, avoiding the spread of falsehoods and inflammatory rhetoric. It also reminds believers to be mindful of the impact their words can have on others. We should be striving to promote truth, charity, and unity in all communication. The virtue of silence: Didn’t we grow up hearing “Silence is golden?” There is a reason why we use the word golden, right? (highly favored, high degree of excellence) Silence has long been revered as a spiritual discipline in Catholic tradition, allowing individuals to listen more attentively to the voice of God and cultivate a deeper interior life. St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) quote underscores the value of silence as a means of self-restraint and inner purification. Application to our times: In a world filled with noise and distraction, the practice of silence is increasingly rare yet desperately needed. St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) teaching encourages Catholics to carve out moments of quietude amidst the busyness of daily life, allowing space for prayer, reflection, and communion with God. It also reminds believers of the power of silence in fostering deeper relationships and understanding with others, transcending the limitations of words. In summary, St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) quote from a traditional Catholic perspective calls believers to exercise control over their speech, recognizing the importance of the old saying “If you have nothing good to say about someone don’t say it at all.” It challenges Catholics to navigate the complexities of modern communication with integrity and mindfulness, striving to use their words for the greater glory of God and the building up of the human community. So St. Sisoes (sis-oy’-us) was not the only saint to remind us to control our tongues, but isn’t it remarkable how we can look back to 400 AD and realize the never ending need for these lessons to be taught and re-taught. We know that the battle against the devil, the temptations, and evil, will never stop so that means that we can’t stop Walt: And this ties nicely into the second quote from St. Anselm of Canterbury's. But before we discuss this Saints quote let me provide some background. St. Anselm of Canterbury, also known as Anselm of Aosta, was a medieval theologian, philosopher, and Benedictine monk who made significant contributions to Western Catholic thought. He is celebrated as a Doctor of the Church for his profound theological writings and his role in shaping medieval scholasticism. Early Life and Education: Anselm was born in 1033 in Aosta, Lombardy, which is now part of modern-day Italy. He came from a noble family and received an education in the liberal arts. Even from a young age, he displayed an intellectual curiosity and a deep religious devotion. Monastic Life: Despite his father's objections, Anselm desired to become a monk. In 1059, he entered the Benedictine monastery of Bec in Normandy, France, where he studied under Lanfranc, the prior and future Archbishop of Canterbury. Anselm excelled in his studies and embraced the monastic way of life wholeheartedly. Scholarship and Writing: Anselm's intellectual pursuits flourished during his time at Bec. He wrote several important philosophical and theological works, including "Monologion" and "Proslogion," in which he formulated his famous ontological argument for the existence of God. His works often sought to reconcile faith with reason and to deepen understanding of Christian doctrine. Nancy: Wait a minute Walt, before you go on can you explain what the word "Monologion” is? Walt: Sure, the word is derived from Greek roots: "mono" meaning "alone" or "single," and "logion" meaning "word" or "speech." So, "Monologion" can be understood as "a single discourse" or "a solo argument." In the context of Anselm's work, the "Monologion" is a treatise in which he engages in a solitary reflection on the existence and attributes of God. In this text, Anselm seeks to demonstrate the existence of God and explore various divine attributes through rational argumentation and contemplation. The "Monologion" is significant for its development of Anselm's philosophical and theological ideas, particularly his ontological argument for the existence of God, which he further elaborates in his later work, the "Proslogion." Nancy: I know I may take you down a rabbit hole but what was "Proslogion"? Walt: Well that book is well worth a separate episode but overall it contained Anselm's reflections on divine attributes, the relationship between faith and reason, and the nature of human understanding in relation to the divine. It remains one of Anselm's most enduring and influential works, continuing to provoke philosophical and theological discussion to this day. But let me get back to his biography. Archbishop of Canterbury: In 1093, Anselm was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Lanfranc. As archbishop, he faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with English kings over issues of ecclesiastical authority and church reform. He defended the rights and independence of the Church against royal encroachments, asserting the primacy of spiritual over temporal authority. Exile: Anselm's tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury was marked by conflicts with King William II and later King Henry I over issues such as lay investiture and the authority to appoint bishops. These disputes led to periods of exile for Anselm, during which he sought refuge in various monasteries on the Continent. Despite the challenges, he remained steadfast in his convictions and continued to advocate for the rights of the Church. Death and Legacy: St. Anselm died on April 21, 1109, in Canterbury, England. He was canonized by Pope Alexander IV in 1163 and later declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Clement XI in 1720. Anselm's theological writings, particularly his contributions to the philosophy of religion and his defense of Christian doctrine, continue to be studied and admired by theologians and philosophers to this day. He is remembered as one of the greatest thinkers of the medieval period and a key figure in the history of Western Catholic thought. Now for his quote: "Thy mouth is the mouth of Christ; therefore thou mayest not -- I speak not of detractions, nor of lies -- thou mayest not open for idle speeches that mouth which should be reserved only for the praises of God and the edification of thy neighbor." Nancy: Let's break down St. Anselm of Canterbury's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective and apply it to contemporary times: "Thy mouth is the mouth of Christ": From a traditional Catholic perspective, this phrase emphasizes the belief that as Christians, we are called to be Christ-like in all aspects of our lives, including our speech. Our words should reflect the love, compassion, and truth exemplified by Jesus Christ during his earthly ministry. Application to our times: In today's world, characterized by rapid communication through social media and digital platforms, this reminder is crucial. It calls on believers to consider whether their online interactions truly reflect the values and teachings of Christ, or if they contribute to division, negativity, and discord. Sometimes it seems as though social media is the outlet for “one-upmanship,” you know what I mean? "Thou mayest not open for idle speeches": Idle speech refers to words that serve no constructive purpose or are devoid of meaning. In the Catholic tradition, idle gossip, slander, and frivolous talk are seen as harmful and contrary to the virtues of charity and kindness. Application to our times: In the age of constant connectivity, it's easy to engage in idle chatter or participate in conversations that lack substance or value. Isn’t that what social media allows us to do all day, every day? St. Anselm's admonition challenges us to use our speech wisely, to refrain from spreading rumors or engaging in divisive discourse, and instead, to focus on words that uplift and inspire others. "Reserved only for the praises of God and the edification of thy neighbor": This part underscores the dual purpose of speech in the Christian life: to glorify God and to build up our fellow human beings. Our words should be a reflection of our gratitude towards God and a means of encouraging and supporting those around us. Application to our times: In a world where negativity and cynicism often dominate public discourse, this aspect of St. Anselm's teaching reminds us of the power of positive affirmation and encouragement. It challenges us to use our words to express gratitude, to offer words of affirmation and support to those in need, and to foster a culture of kindness and compassion. This is so true. I remember telling my students how easy it is to gossip or speak ill of someone or laugh at the misfortune or bad luck of others. How often do we spread good news about someone? In summary, St. Anselm's quote from a traditional Catholic perspective emphasizes the sacredness of speech and the responsibility that comes with being a follower of Christ. It calls on believers to use their words in a manner that honors God, builds up others, and contributes to the betterment of society, even in the midst of the challenges and complexities of contemporary times. In a society inundated with noise and chatter, it's becoming increasingly rare to find individuals who value meaningful conversation over idle gossip or trivial banter. Walt: It's a powerful reminder that meaningful communication requires both speaking and listening attentively. In a world where everyone seems to be talking, there's a profound need for genuine connection and understanding. Nancy: Absolutely, Walt. Our words have the potential to reflect the light of truth and love, or to perpetuate darkness and division. By aligning our speech with the virtues of compassion, empathy, and wisdom, we can contribute to the healing and transformation of our world. I couldn’t help but link the words of St. Sisoes' (sis-oy’-us) from the time of 400AD, to St. Anselm around the 1100s, to two other quotes - one from St. Alphonsus Liguori who died in 1787 up to CS Lewis who died in 1963. Really just to show the connectivity in the ongoing lesson about the power of silence. To be silent when we are impelled to utter words injurious to God or to our neighbour, is an act of virtue; but, to be silent in confessing our sins, is the ruin of the soul. ~ St. Alphonsus De Liguori died 1787 I have often repented of speech but hardly ever of silence. died 1963 C. S. Lewis Walt: Well said, Nancy. It's a reminder for all of us to pause and reflect on the words we speak, recognizing the sacredness and power inherent in every utterance. Nancy: Indeed. Thank you for letting me join you in this insightful discussion. And to our listeners, we encourage you to contemplate how you can harness the power of your words for the greater good. And as always, may God bless you abundantly. Let me end with a prayer?

We delve into the timeless wisdom of the Catholic faith. Today, we embark on a journey through the dynamics of spiritual comfort, exploring the words of saints and scripture that guide us through the highs and lows of our spiritual lives. Our first quote comes from the revered Saint Julie Billiart, who beautifully encapsulates the ultimate desire for our hearts. She prays, "My prayer is that the good God may establish His absolute reign in your heart and in the hearts of all." What a profound prayer indeed, invoking the sovereignty of God in our lives. As Catholics, we strive for God's reign to be absolute within us, acknowledging His lordship over every aspect of our existence. It's a prayer that reflects our deepest longing for union with the Divine, where His will becomes our will, His love becomes our love, and His kingdom becomes our ultimate destination. Let's break down this quote from Saint Julie Billiart from a traditional Catholic perspective: "My prayer is that the good God": This phrase emphasizes the goodness of God. In Catholic theology, God is understood as infinitely good, merciful, and loving. It acknowledges that all goodness originates from God and that He desires what is best for His creation. "may establish His absolute reign": Here, Saint Julie Billiart is invoking the concept of the Kingdom of God. In traditional Catholic teaching, the Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future hope. It refers to the reign or sovereignty of God over all creation, where His will is done perfectly. This reign is established through Christ, who inaugurated the Kingdom through His life, death, and resurrection. "in your heart and in the hearts of all": This part of the quote underscores the personal nature of the relationship between the individual and God. In Catholic spirituality, the heart symbolizes the deepest core of a person, where their thoughts, desires, and intentions reside. Saint Julie Billiart's prayer is that God's reign would not only be recognized externally but also embraced internally, transforming the hearts of individuals to align with His will. Overall, this quote reflects a deep longing for the complete submission of the individual and all humanity to the rule of God. It encapsulates the essence of Catholic spirituality, which seeks union with God and the fulfillment of His divine plan for salvation. But through our journey towards this union, we encounter various seasons, as properly described by Thomas à Kempis. In his great writing “"The Imitation of Christ" He reminds us that when we receive spiritual comfort, it's essential to recognize it as God's bounty, not our merit. We must guard against pride, knowing that comfort may come and go, and with it, the test of our humility and faith. He said: “Therefore, when God gives spiritual comfort, receive it with thanksgiving, but know that it is the bounty of God, not thy merit. Be not puffed up, be not overjoyed, nor vainly presume, but rather be the more humble for this gift and the more cautious and fearful in all thine actions; for this hour will pass away and temptation will follow. When comfort shall be taken away from thee, do not presently despair; but wait with humility and patience for the heavenly visit, for God is able to restore thee a greater consolation. This is no new thing, nor strange to those who have experienced the ways of God: for the great saints and ancient prophets have often felt this kind of variety.” let's break down this quote from Thomas à Kempis within a traditional Catholic perspective: "Therefore, when God gives spiritual comfort, receive it with thanksgiving, but know that it is the bounty of God, not thy merit": Here, Thomas à Kempis reminds us that any spiritual comfort or consolation we receive is a gift from God, given out of His infinite love and mercy, not because of our own deserving. In Catholic theology, grace is understood as the unmerited favor of God, freely given to us for our sanctification and salvation. Therefore, we are called to receive these gifts with gratitude, acknowledging our dependence on God's generosity. "Be not puffed up, be not overjoyed, nor vainly presume, but rather be the more humble for this gift and the more cautious and fearful in all thine actions": Thomas à Kempis warns against the dangers of pride and presumption that can accompany spiritual consolation. Instead of becoming proud or presumptuous about our spiritual experiences, we are called to deepen our humility and to exercise greater vigilance in our actions. This echoes the teachings of humility and discernment found in the Catholic spiritual tradition, particularly in the writings of the Desert Fathers and Doctors of the Church. "When comfort shall be taken away from thee, do not presently despair; but wait with humility and patience for the heavenly visit, for God is able to restore thee a greater consolation": Here, Thomas à Kempis acknowledges the reality that spiritual consolation is not always permanent. In times of spiritual dryness or desolation, we are called to trust in God's faithfulness and to wait patiently for His consolation to return. This highlights the importance of perseverance and trust in the spiritual life, even amid difficulties and trials. "This is no new thing, nor strange to those who have experienced the ways of God: for the great saints and ancient prophets have often felt this kind of variety": Finally, Thomas à Kempis reminds us that the experience of spiritual consolation followed by desolation is a common aspect of the spiritual journey. Many saints and prophets throughout history have experienced similar fluctuations in their spiritual lives. This reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles and encourages us to persevere in faith, knowing that others have walked this path before us. In summary, Thomas à Kempis's quote offers valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of the spiritual life from a traditional Catholic perspective. It emphasizes humility, gratitude, perseverance, and trust in God's providence, drawing upon the rich spiritual heritage of the Catholic tradition. Thomas à Kempis urges us not to despair when comfort is taken away but to wait patiently for God's heavenly visit. This is also expressed in Psalm 40:1-3, where the Psalmist proclaims, "I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry." let's break down this quote from Psalm 40:1 within a traditional Catholic perspective: "I waited patiently for the Lord": This phrase highlights the virtue of patience, a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. In traditional Catholic teaching, patience is considered one of the cardinal virtues, essential for enduring trials and tribulations with steadfastness and trust in God's providence. It reflects the Psalmist's willingness to wait upon the Lord's timing, rather than seeking immediate solutions or gratification. "he inclined to me and heard my cry": Here, the Psalmist expresses confidence in God's attentive care and responsiveness to prayer. This verse underscores the belief in God's omniscience and omnipotence, emphasizing that He not only hears but also actively listens to the cries of His people. In Catholic theology, prayer is understood as a vital means of communication with God, through which believers can express their needs, concerns, and desires with the assurance that God hears and responds according to His will. In summary, Psalm 40:1 from a traditional Catholic perspective emphasizes the importance of patience in waiting for God's timing and trust in His attentive care and responsiveness to our prayers. It encourages believers to persevere in prayer, confident that God hears and acts on behalf of those who seek Him with sincerity and faith. The journey of faith often involves waiting, trusting, and hoping in the Lord's deliverance. Like the Psalmist, we may find ourselves in desolate pits or miry bogs, feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Yet, God promises to lift us out of these places, setting our feet upon a rock and giving us a new song of praise. In those moments of despair, when we feel abandoned or forgotten, we must remember that God is faithful. He hears our cries, and He will come to our rescue in His perfect timing. Our role is to wait with humility and patience, trusting that He is able to restore us even greater consolation. As we navigate the ebbs and flows of spiritual comfort, let us hold fast to the words of Saint Julie Billiart, inviting God to establish His absolute reign in our hearts. May we also heed the wisdom of Thomas à Kempis, remaining humble in times of comfort and patient in times of trial. Thank you for joining me through the dynamics of spiritual comfort from a traditional Catholic perspective. May the grace of God sustain you through every season of your faith, and may His reign be established in your heart now and forevermore. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly. Now go out and convert somebody.