welcoming strangers

I am Roman Catholic.

I live in a Diocese who, not unlike many other Dioceses’ in the Country, are noticing a decline in active worship members. As a result, our Bishop is in the process of making difficult decisions to handle the reality of the increasing number of empty pews and the limited amount of Priests to preside over these (somewhat noticeable) empty Churches. Following the Easter Season we shall all know the consolidation plans for our Diocesan Parishes. I know for certain my Parish will be affected by these changes in some capacity.

Obviously, as one who loves the Catholic Church and all its teachings this is very sad to me. I struggle to understand the lack of zeal for the faith and the lukewarmness that has settled in to the hearts of many faithful. Truly, the Catholic Faith is not the only one to see a decline in its worship members, as I know the evil-one is not prejudice in his ploys to lead people astray from their Faith in a higher power.

However, even though I know there is cause for concern & a need for prayerful intercession for our prodigal brothers & sisters there is cause for great hope! Because without hope we fall into despair and despair is the playground of the Devil.

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good guidance

He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.

Proverbs 10:17

Picture the sheep being guided by the shepherd. When it begins to wander, the shepherd will gently use his rod to steer it in the right direction. If the sheep still doesn’t correct itself, the shepherd will have to use more force. Occasionally, the sheep might get completely off course, and this could distract other sheep who will easily follow the wrong path.

This is how the Bible likens our spiritual journey. 

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pelican

“Our hearts were made for thee, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in thee.”

St. Augustine

Our family has a fond appreciation for the Pelican.

My Mary’s garden showcases a favorite plaster depiction and our eldest son treasures a carved wooden Pelican he has had since he was about 10 years old. This carving has remained with him during adolescence, his years at West-Point; as well as, throughout his military travels. He received it, all those years ago, while on holiday visiting his grandparents in Florida and grew up believing his grandfather hand-carved it.

Fulton Sheen gave the lesson many times on the importance of the Sacrament of the Eucharist. In the spirit of my recent post(s) regarding the Beautiful Eucharist and its importance in our Catholic Faith I would like to share the following lesson Fulton Sheen gave on the nourishment we receive from this divine gift. When our Blessed Lord saw a very hungry crowd, He said, I am sorry for the multitude for they have nothing to eat. What He gave them on that occasion is the subject of this lesson.

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