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.

Continue reading “welcoming strangers”

he offered his life

 

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“Hatred is not a creative force.  Only love is creative power.”

St. Maximillian Mary Kolbe, Priest and Martyr (1894-1941)

 

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Sentenced to hard manual labor at the death camp in Auschwitz, St. Maximillian Kolbe offered his life in exchange for that of a family man.

 

His zeal for souls and love of neighbor  leave us all striving for God’s glory by eagerly serving others.

 

 

Today, and every day, may we spread this message to the ends of the earth! Continue reading “he offered his life”