Christina the Astonishing

When I first began reading about saints this one struck me and I've never forget it. It's one of the first saints I tell my dk's about.

Born to a peasant family, orphaned as a child, and raised by two older sisters. At age 21, she experienced a severe seizure of what may have been epilepsy. It was so severe as to be cateleptic, and she was thought to have died. During her funeral Mass, she suddenly recovered, and levitated to the roof of the church. Ordered down by the priest, she landed on the altar and stated that she had been to hell, purgatory, and heaven, and had been returned to earth with a ministry to pray for souls in purgatory.

Her life from that point became a series of strange incidents cataloged by a Thomas de Cantimpré, Dominican professor of theology at Louvain who was a contemporary recorded his information by interviewin witnesses, and by Cardinal Jacques de Vitny who knew her personally. She exhibited both unusual traits and abilities. For example, she could not stand the odor of other people because she could smell the sin in them, and would climb trees or buildings, hide in ovens or cupboards, or simply levitate to avoid contact. She lived in a way that was considered poverty even in the 13th century, sleeping on rocks, wearing rags, begging, and eating what came to hand. She would roll in fire or handle it without harm, stand in freezing water in the winter for hours, spend long periods in tombs, or allow herself to be dragged under water by a mill wheel, though she never sustained injury. Given to ecstasies during which she led the souls of the recently dead to purgatory, and those in purgatory to paradise.

People who knew her were divided in their opinions: she was a holy woman, touched of God, and that her actions and torments were simulations of the experiences of the souls in purgatory; she was suffering the torments of devils - or she was flatly insane. However, the prioress of Saint Catherine's convent testified that no matter how bizarre or excessive Christina's reported actions, she was always completely obedient to the prioresses orders. Friend of Louis, Count of Looz, whose castle she visited, and whose actions she rebuked. Blessed Marie of Oignies thought well of her, and Saint Lutgardis sought her advice.

Born
1150 at Brusthem near Liege, Belgium

Died
24 July 1224 at Saint Catherine's convent, Trond of natural causes

Beatified
popular devotion existed and continues, but no formal beatification has taken place; unknown if any cause is before the Congregation; because of lack for formal designation, she is sometimes listed as Saint Christina, sometimes as Blessed Christina

Patronage
insanity; lunatics; madness; mental disorders; mental handicaps; mental health caregivers; mental health professionals; mental illness; mentally ill people; psychiatrists; therapists

Of course I also like her because of her connection with patronage to mental illness...in case you didn't know I'm bipolar.

Birthday tag....

I was tagged by a fellow CANADIAN blogger

Three events on December 17
Wow...important AMERICAN stuff...

1903...The Wright brothers made the first flight at Kitttyhawk.
1777...France formally recognizes the United States as a country.
1843...A Christmas Carole was published. I have this movie and love it...I've already got it out and plan on drinking hot cocoa and watching it somenight.




Two Important birthdays on July 14

OK, I really couldn't find any...so I will say:
The happy Jennifer
The sad Jennifer...LOL.

Holiday or Observances

The order of Lazarus...Whatever that means...I am off to find out.

I tag anyone who wants to and barband ukok

My favourite saint

Has her day today!


And how ironic that today is the start of Pope Benedict's trip to Turkey...it is a sign. I know he will be OK. Saint Catherine will make sure.

I've prayed quite a few times, as has my own little saint Catherine.

Tomorrow

Is one of my favourite saint's day...and I even remembered ;)

I can't wait until tomorrow to post.


It also is the start of the Pope's visit to turkey...please pray for him






Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to Your shepherd, the Pope, a spirit of courage and right judgement, a spirit of knowledge and love.

By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care may he, as successor to the apostle Peter and vicar of Christ, build Your church into a sacrament of unity, love, and peace for all the world.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Forgive me father...

for I have sinned. It has been one month since my last confession...well now 1 day.

I went to confession yesterday. Figured I better take the opportunity since all my dk's were gone with my family. It felt good.

And for Angela...yes I'm doing OK. It's just that I don't have as much time now that I have all 3 dk's and all the responsibilites for everything. My ds has also showed an interest in saints (he went to a craft thing at the parish and they talked about saints) so I am trying to encourage that with a saint book I have which is more geared to children than the Butler's one...LOL.

Feast from Ukok

Appetizer
Do you believe there is intelligent life on other planets?

No.

Soup
What is one thing you said you'd never do, but you eventually did?

Honestly, I don't know.

Salad
Who is the teacher that influenced you the most in school?

Her name was Joan Hutton. She was an instructor in nursing school. She was so kind and sympathetic to me. I had just broken up with my fiance, got influenza and thought I flunked a final exam. She said I could rewrite it. I ended up with a mark in the 90's. But her kindness meant more to me than anything.

Main Course
If you could trade places with anyone for one day, who would it be and why?


I would say him, because I want to know WHY??????????
I don't think he'll ever truthfully tell anyone.
Is that bad????

Dessert
What is your favorite dish to prepare?

Roast beef, roast potatoes and roasted carrots with lemon meringue pie for dessert. It is all done in one roasting pan and the pie is made earlier in the day so there is less dishes to clean up. And it tastes yummy, especially with horseradish mayo.

Pray request for a Priest

I found out today my favourite Priest...Fr Bourque fell and broke his hip. He is in hospital. I am going tomorrow to see a friend who had a baby so I might stop by and drop a card off for him. I think I'll urge him to come to my nursing home...I would so love to have a Priest there!!!!!!!

He did the RCIA course. It wasn't the greatest course but this man was so caring, understanding, sympathetic and he was exactly what I needed at the time. He accepted me for what I am and didn't question anything. That meant alot to me at the time. I remember him saying how spiritual and holy I was and that the Lord had great things for me. He commented a few times about things I have experienced spiritually in life...that they don't happen alot and I am special.

Even though he is a liberal Priest I still have a special fondness for him in my heart. Because he had Parkinsons he was left at the Parish for many years and not transferred (they routinely transfer Priests here, I don't know if every diocise does that). I knew him for years because I use to deliver the local paper to the rectory. I remember every year getting a huge Christmas tip. Funny how material things really are not that important now.

I guess we all change over time...I am less materialist and more traditional in my religious views. Tonight at work I asked an old life long Catholic what Vespers and Lauds are...he didn't know. I told him when I ask questions he better be prepared. That he'll have to think way back for the answers. He laughed because he knows I am traditional and conservative.

Anyways....I ask for prayers for Fr. Bourque. That he may heal and get over this. I know what can happen often when an elderly person breaks a hip...especially if they have pre-existing health problems. Please pray that God's will be done, that Fr Bourque will realize that Jesus is now carrying him. Pray for peace and understanding...not so much to heal him physically but in other ways. We all look at Priests as not needing those types of prayers but they do. They are human too.

My favourite pictures

I love that picture of Jesus because I had a similiar image as a child. It brings back fond memories. My Aunt and Uncle (he was a Lutheran minister) gave it to me in a frame...wish I still had it.



I love this picture. I have it on a wooden block that I bought about 8 years ago. And then when my best friend's mother died a few years later on the memorial cards was this very same image. I know it was a sign from God...one of my favourite images was on her card. I sometimes feel she is watching over me...I probably was just like another daughter to her. I've been friends with her daughter for all my life, I was always at her house. Her mother probably knew me better than my own mother.



And of course we don't need to repeat why and how I love this one. There will never be any devotion that will replace this one to me...just like the namesake I have.

At Mass on Sunday

I guess it's technically Monday so this was yesterday...

The readings were about the end of times. I'm sure they were the same at your parish. I have read the whole Bible many times and do not remember the OT mentioning it. And one reading mentioned that when Jesus comes the second time he will judge those who have died and those who are alive...so I was left wondering exactly what happens when you die. What if you just made confession, have not sinner and get hit by lightening walking out of the confessional...or if you are Mother Teresea...do you go straight to heaven. Jesus has not come to judge you yet...that is one thing I have always wondered about and never found a good enough answer.

Anyways the homily was excellent.

It talked about how there is 3 parts...before Jesus, when Jesus came the first time and when he comes the second time. Most people will not see the last part in their lifetime. It also talked about when bad things happen in life we are to make the most of it and learn from it. (Yes that part made me cry). We can use it as an opportunity to act and become more Christian like. The Priest compared life to a puzzle. We are the puzzle. We only see peices at a time. If we have the patience, the understanding and commit we can see the whole completed puzzle. But the whole time God sees the puzzle as a whole. He does not see just the peices. If we were to see the peices all together as God does we would probably panic. He also said that the puzzles have an example to follow, meaning the picture on the front. We also have an example to follow...it was set out by God in the Bible.

It was an excellent homily. I have really liked his past few homilies.

And I am thinking of calling the Parish office and setting up counselling. I've never done it before so talking to the Priest is a bit nerve wrecking. I specifically remember the one Priest during confession and another blogger saying almost the same thing and I didn't realize what they meant would happen. Confession is not a problem for me but talking about these things are. (Probably because I don't have alot of things to confess).

I need to talk to someone I can trust. Unfortunately there is limited people I now trust.

One of my favourite prayers

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary,
that never was it known
that any one who fled to your protection,
implored your help or sought your intercession,
was left unaided.
Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto you,
O Virgin of virgins, my Mother.
To you I come, before you I stand,
sinful and sorrowful;
O Mother of the Word Incarnate,
despise not my petitions, but in your mercy
hear and answer me. Amen.

SALVATORE LILLI

Also known as
Salvatore of Cappadocia

Memorial
19 November

Profile
Son of Vincenzo and Annunziata Lilli. Joined the Franciscans in 1870, making his vows on 6 August 1871. Studied at the Franciscan seminary in the Holy Lands. Ordained in Bethlehem on 6 April 1878. Missionary in Jerusalem for two years. Missionary to Marasco, Armenia in 1880. In addition to preaching the faith he built schools, clinics, and homes for the abandoned, and taught modern hygiene and sanitation in the remote villages. Worked endlessly with the sick during a cholera epidemic in 1891. Missionary to Mujuk-Deresa, Armenia in 1894. In 1895 the area was occupied by Islamic Turks who captured Salvatore and fellow Franciscans Baldji Oghlou Ohannes, David Oghlou David, Dimbalac Oghlou Wartavar, Geremia Oghlou Boghos, Khodianin Oghlou Kadir, Kouradji Oghlou Tzeroum, and Toros Oghlou David. They were tortured and ordered to convert; they refused. One of the Martyrs of Armenia.

Born
19 June 1853 at Cappadocia, Aquila, Italy

Died
martyred on 22 November 1895 in Mujuk-Dersi, Armenia (modern Turkey)

Beatified
3 October 1982 by Pope John Paul II

Canonized
pending



Another fine example of someone whose canonization is pending and we may be the miracle to have it happen.
I really like the fact he went around urging and teaching sanitation and hygiene and helped the sick during cholera...I don't even know if I'd go to work during a cholera outbreak :O

KAROLINA KÓZKÓWNA

Also known as
Maria Goretti of Poland; Caroline Kozka

Memorial
18 November

Profile
Fourth of eleven children born to the farm family of Jan and Maria Borzechka Kózka. Catechism teacher. A teenaged virgin, she refused the advances of a Russian soldier. He kidnapped her, dragged her into the forest, and murdered her during an attempted rape. Martyr of purity.

Born
2 August 1898 at Wal-Ruda, Poland

Died
murdered during a rape attempt by a Russian soldier on 18 November 1914 in the forests around Wal-Ruda, Poland; her body was found on 4 December 1914; buried at Zabawa, Poland

Beatified
10 June 1987 at Tarnów, Poland by Pope John Paul II

Canonized
pending


Oh Saint Maria Goretti who, strengthened by God's grace, did not hesitate even at the age of twelve to shed your blood and sacrifice life itself to defend your virginal purity, look graciously on the unhappy human race which has strayed far from the path of eternal salvation. Teach us all, and especially youth, with what courage and promptitude we should flee for the love of Jesus anything that could offend Him or stain our souls with sin. Obtain for us from our Lord victory in temptation, comfort in the sorrows of life, and the grace which we earnestly beg of thee (here insert intention), and may we one day enjoy with thee the imperishable glory of Heaven. Amen.


And you know I always have to say something ;)
I was raped as a teen...so I feel a special bond with this girl. I pray she is canonized...who knows, perhaps the miracle it takes will happen to someone I know or myself.

FYI

One more month until I am 35....but I'm happy to report no gray hair yet! LOL

Nov 17: St. Elizabeth of Hungary

Princess, the daughter of King Andrew of Hungary. Great-aunt of Saint Elizabeth of Portugal. She married Prince Louis of Thuringa at age 13. Built a hospital at the foot of the mountain on which her castle stood; tended to the sick herself. Her family and courtiers opposed this, but she insisted she could only follow Christ's teachings, not theirs. Once when she was taking food to the poor and sick, Prince Louis stopped her and looked under her mantle to see what she was carrying; the food had been miraculously changed to roses. Upon Louis' death, Elizabeth sold all that she had, and worked to support her four children. Her gifts of bread to the poor, and of a large gift of grain to a famine stricken Germany, led to her patronage of bakers and related fields.

Born
1207 at Presburg, Hungary

Died
1231 at Marburg of natural causes; her relics, including her skull wearing a gold crown she had worn in life, are preserved at the convent of Saint Elizabeth in Vienna, Austria



Litany to St. Elizabeth of Hungary

Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God,
have mercy on us.

Response: pray for us.

Holy Mary, Mother of Mercy,
Holy Elizabeth, mother of the poor,
Saint Elizabeth, who didst fear God from thy heart,
Saint Elizabeth, most fervent in devotion,
Saint Elizabeth, devout and beloved disciple of Jesus,
Saint Elizabeth, imitator of blessed Francis,
Saint Elizabeth, of noblest faith and birth,
Saint Elizabeth, devoted to all pious offices,
Saint Elizabeth, whose nights were spent in prayer and contemplation,
Saint Elizabeth, who was consoled with heavenly visions,
Saint Elizabeth, beloved of God and man,
Saint Elizabeth, full of contempt of this world,
Saint Elizabeth, example of poverty, chastity, and obedience,
Saint Elizabeth, solace of your husband,
Saint Elizabeth, mirror of widows,
Saint Elizabeth, holocaust of penance and humility,
Saint Elizabeth, admirable preacher of meekness,
Saint Elizabeth, despiser of the luxuries of the regal house,
Saint Elizabeth, lover of the Cross of Christ,
Saint Elizabeth, light of all pious women,
Saint Elizabeth, nourisher of the orphans,
Saint Elizabeth, always intent on works of mercy,
Saint Elizabeth, consoler of all sorrows,
Saint Elizabeth, teacher of the poor,
Saint Elizabeth, seeker of contumely and affronts,
Saint Elizabeth, distributor of thy riches to thy poor neighbors,
Saint Elizabeth, patient in adversity,
Saint Elizabeth, maker of garments for the poor,
Saint Elizabeth, hospitable receiver of pilgrims and the sick,
Saint Elizabeth, succor of the needy,
Saint Elizabeth, formidable to demons,
Saint Elizabeth, example of all spiritual perfection,
Saint Elizabeth, repressor of all vain and dissolute conversation,
Saint Elizabeth, cheered by angelic choirs in thy last agony,
Saint Elizabeth, miraculous in life,
Saint Elizabeth, helper of our devotions,
Saint Elizabeth, our sweetest patron,

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us.

Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
V. Pray for us, blessed Elizabeth, R.That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray

Enlighten, O God of compassion, the hearts of Thy faithful servants, and through the glorious prayers of blessed Elizabeth, make us to despise the pleasing things of this world and ever to delight in the consolations of Heaven, through Christ Our Lord.
R.Amen.

O God of tender mercies, pour forth Thy light over the hearts of Thy faithful people, and graciously listening to the glorious prayers of blessed Elizabeth, make us to think little of worldly proseperity and to be ever gladdened by heavenly consolation, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who liveth and reigneth with God the Father and the Holy Spirit, world without end.
R. Amen.





She is one of the patron saints for nurses and nursing home...both of which are close to my heart as a RN in a nursing home.

Another memo to myself

Listen, God, to my prayer;
do not hide from my pleading;
hear me and give answer.

If an enemy had reviled me,
that I could bear;
If my foe had viewed me with contempt,
from that I could hide.
But it was you, my other self,
my comrade and friend,
You, whose company I enjoyed,
at whose side I walked
in procession in the house of God.

But I will call upon God,
and the Lord will save me.
At dusk, dawn, and noon
I will grieve and complain,
and my prayer will be heard.
(Ps 55:2-3, 13-15, 17-18)

Memo to myself

Don't forget tomorrow is Friday!

Remember to pray today

Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus Christ, in union with the masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. ~Amen.

That is the St. Gertrude prayer...every time it is said 1000 souls are released from purgatory.

In honor of her memorial day today I would like to remind everyone to pray it at least once...preferrably more than once today.

Something to ponder

It is the time and the manner of the birth of the Lord upon the holy Christmas day. Jesus Christ was not born in a grand palace. He was not born to very wealthy or learned parents. Jesus Christ was born in a simple lowly place, a corner of a stable. He was born to humble and poor parents, who had nothing to boast about, except their own spotless character and holiness.

The above point of deep significance tells that the spiritual awakening comes to the seeker, who is perfectly humble and "meek" and "poor in spirit." The quality of true humility is one of the indispensable fundamentals. Then we find simplicity, holiness and the renunciation of all desire for worldly wealth and pride of learning.

The 12 days of Christmas...Dec25 - Jan 6

I did know this but just found it somewhere online.

It's interesting so I wanted to share it...

The 12 Days of Christmas" is in a sense an allegory. Each of the items in the song represents something significant to the teachings of the Catholic faith. The hidden meaning of each gift was designed to help Catholic children learn their faith. The song goes, "On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me…" The "true love" mentioned in the song refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. i.e. the Church.

1st Day: The partridge in a pear tree is Christ Jesus upon the Cross.

2nd Day: The "two turtle doves" refers to the Old and New Testaments.

3rd Day: The "three French hens" stand for faith, hope and love.

4th Day: The "four calling birds" refers to the four evangelists who wrote the Gospels-Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

5th Day: The "five golden rings" represents the first five books of the Bible, also called the Jewish Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.

6th Day: The "six geese a-laying" is the six days of creation.

7th Day: The "seven swans a-swimming" refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord.

8th Day: The "eight maids a milking " reminded children of the eight beatitudes listed in the Sermon on the Mount.

9th Day: The "nine ladies dancing" were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit found in Galatians: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

10th Day: The "ten lords a-leaping" represents the Ten Commandments.

11th Day: The "eleven pipers piping" refers to the eleven faithful apostles.

12th Day: The 'twelve drummers drumming" were the twelve points of belief expressed in the Apostles' Creed: belief in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, that Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary, made man, crucified, died and arose on the third day, that he sits at the right hand of the father and will come again, the resurrection of the dead and life everlasting.

Thinking of a new penance for Friday

I am weak.
I love coffee.
With just cream. No sugar...I'm sweet enough ;)


But I think on Friday I will give up......


the cream. If I gave up the coffee I'd have a whopper of a headache.

I am thinking that the no meat thing just isn't doing it anymore...just not penance enough.

Saint Stanislaus...memorial day

Born to a family of Polish nobility; son of a senator. Attended the Viennese Jesuit college from age 14 with his brother Paul, who badly mistreated him. While staying at the home of a Lutheran, he became gravely ill, but was not allowed to call for a priest. He prayed to his patron, Saint Barbara, who appeared to him in a vision with two angels, and administered Communion. He was then cured from his disease by Our Lady who told him to become a Jesuit against his family's wishes. Attended the Jesuit college in Rome. Friend of Saint Peter Canisius. Jesuit novice from 28 October 1567. Student of Saint Francis Borgia.

Born
October 1550 at Rostkovo, Poland
Died
14 August 1568 on the feast of the Assumption
Beatified
19 October 1605 Pope Paul V
Canonized
31 December 1726 by Pope Paul V
Patronage
broken bones; last sacraments; Oblate aspirants

This I found very interesting

Saint Stanislaus had drawn as his monthly patron for August the glorious martyr Saint Lawrence, and in his honour he performed daily some penance or devotion. On the eve of his feast, he obtained leave to take the discipline; in the morning he went to Communion, and then laid before the image of the saint a letter addressed to Our Lady, in which he begged that he might die on her Feast of the Assumption, and he prayed Saint Lawrence to present to her his petition. That night he was seized with a slight fever, which, however, rapidly increased; and on Assumption Eve, he received the last sacraments. Then, as he lay dying, he had brought to him a little book containing a litany in his own writing of his monthly patron saints, whom he constantly invoked. At 3 a.m. on the Feast of the Assumption, he face suddenly lit up with joy, and he breathed forth his soul to the Mother of God, who had come to conduct him to heaven

Prayer
Dear Saint Stanislaus, angel of purity and sepaph of charity, I rejoice with you at your most happy death, which arose from your desire to contemplate our Lady in heaven, and was at length caused by the excess of your love for her. I give thanks to Mary because she thus accomplished your desires; and I pray you, by the luster of your happy death, to be my advocate and patron in my death. Intercede with Mary for me to obtain for me a death, if not all happiness like yours, yet calm and peaceful, under the protection of Mary my mother, and of you, my special patron. Amen

Prayer for the Graces of Saint Stanislaus
O God, Who among the many wonders of Your wisdom endow some, even in tender years, with the grace of ripest holiness: grant under us, we beseech You, after the pattern of blessed Stanislaus, to be instant in good works, and thus to make speed to enter into everlasting rest. Amen

HERE is a great story about his life.


***Info from the catholic forum

November 11

It is Rememberance Day. I've worn my poppy with pride. So have my two oldest dk's.
Today the two youngest dk's were with me at the mall at 11:11. There was an announcement overhead and my ds came and told me. The clerk kept talking. I told her I would like a moment of silence to remember those who died so I could come into this store and buy what I want!
God bless all those who are now fighting for that same freedom and peace throughout the world.

I love this poem, and it was written by a Canadian!

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.





Eternal rest grant to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

Memo to myself

It's Friday...which means penance, prayers and remembering Jesus died for me.

I am glad I remembered, I often forget which day it is. (Yes, I'm getting old...LOL)

So no meat today for me. That's my penance.
And I make sure I say the whole rosary before bedtime (because I sometimes fall asleep while praying it)
And I'll do stations of the cross.

A few prayers

In honour of my oldest dd who chose her confimation name after this wonderful lady.

St. Claire Of Assisi Prayer:

God of mercy, inspired St. Claire with the love of Poverty.

By the help of her prayers, may we follow Christ in poverty

of spirit and come to the Kingdom of heaven.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,

your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

One God, forever and ever.Amen.



JESUS HELP ME


In every need let me come to you with humble trust saying

JESUS HELP ME.

In all my doubts, perplexities and temptations

JESUS HELP ME

In hours of loneliness, weariness and trials,

JESUS HELP ME

In the failure of my plans & hopes, in disappointments troubles and sorrow
JESUS HELP ME

When my heart is cast down by failure at seeing no good come from my efforts,
JESUS HELP ME

When I feel impatient and my cross irritates me

JESUS HELP ME

When I am ill and my head and hands cannot work and I am lonely

JESUS HELP ME

Always, always, in spite of weakness, falls and shortcomings of every kind
Jesus help me and never forsake me.



Prayer to Saint Dymphna (because I am scared of losing it)

Lord, our God, you graciously chose Saint Dymphna as patroness of those afflicted with mental and nervous disorders. She is thus an inspiration and a symbol of charity to the thousands who ask her intercession.

Please grant, Lord, through the prayers of this pure youthful martyr, relief and consolation to all suffering such trials, and especially those for whom we pray. (Here mention those for whom you wish to pray).

We beg you, Lord, to hear the prayers of Saint Dymphna on our behalf. Grant all those for whom we pray patience in their sufferings and resignation to your divine will. Please fill them with hope, and grant them the relief and cure they so much desire.

We ask this through Christ our Lord who suffered agony in the garden. Amen

Leo the Great

Today is his feast day.
I pray that I may have his strength and courageous abilities to fight my own Attila's.

Last night

I read on another blog about The Office of the Dead.
I have never been to Mass on All Saints or All Souls Day (they are not Holy Days in Canada and service is in the evening when I work).

I printed the prayers off. I found them online. I had to copy and paste it almost line by line because half of it was Latin (which I would love to learn but have no clue...eventually I will).

I said it last night laying on the couch. Along with the rosary. My dk's were in the room. They said I prayed for along time. They don't realize that because I do it at night in my room.

I think it's a good thing to do it in front of them.

And I guess my youngest dd made my oldest dd cross herself when they walked past the church. I found that story cute when I heard it.

My Miraculous Medal Story

In 1997 I was on Accutane. It is for acne. It is a very strong medicine which causes severe birth defects. I had to sign a consent that I was fully informed and agreed to birth control. This was before I was Catholic, before I actually knew how the pill totally worked (I didn't know until very recently that it changes the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation...how did I get through RN school without that knowledge).

Because my oldest was also conceived when on the pill I was very diligent about taking it. Even at the same time.

I was just finished the Accutane and then found out two or three days later I was pregnant. I was terrified. I had 2 dr's in the early stage suggest abort the baby. I couldn't.

I was debating about Catholicism at this time. I saw the Miraculous Medal and started wearing it. I spoke with St. Catherine alot. I prayed alot.

I had an ultrasound which looked OK. I refused testing for any other concerns (amnio, spina bifida testing etc.) For me it didn't matter. I really didn't want to know. I remember deciding one day that if something happened I would cope with it. God would only give me what I could handle. I would find out in the delivery room.

I wore that medal everyday. Once it came off when a patient ripped my necklace. His mother knew how important this was to me. She gave me a pin and I pinned it to my shirt. She offered to buy me a new chain but I had one at home. That night I put it back on my neck.

I still continued to talk with St. Catherine and St. Gerard...knowing they would hear me and interceed.

I saw my dermatologist for a follow-up. He told me that with the longer half life of Accutane and the fact that the fetus cells don't split until 2 weeks after conception it was unknown if my baby would be affected.

I still knew it didn't matter, I could never abort a child and God would provide.

When I saw the OB/GYN near the end of my pregnancy she was upset that I hadn't aborted the baby. I told her it's a little late now (I was 33 weeks).

My son was born perfectly healthy. No neurological effects. Brain where it should be. Ears where they should be. Not one problem. He is now 8. He is smart and acts just like anyother 8 yr old.

I was so grateful my next dd is named Catherine after St. Catherine. Thanks to her and God. I honestly consider it a miracle.

Ironically I have worn that necklace everyday since. The only ever time it was taken off was recently for an x-ray of my face. I was asked to remove the necklace as it was showing up and distorting the X-rays. I took the necklace off. It also has a crucifix on it. The technician took a few more X-rays and said something is still distorting the X-ray...the medal was stuck to the back of my neck. It didn't want to leave me.

OK...

It's sad when mass makes you cry.

And it's not one of those saint stories where the whole experience is overjoyfull.

Saddam

I don't like what he did.
I wasn't there so I really don't know.

But personally I don't like the death penalty.
I know there are proponents who use Biblical quotes to support it but I still don't agree.

Thankfully I'm not the one who has to tie the noose around his neck.

A list of signs

I really do consider myself special...God really is watching out for me.

1. When I got my brown scapular I put it on my neck. Less than 5 seconds later I got in an accident. My car was so close to a very large tree you couldn't put a peice of paper between it and the car. No damage to car or to me.
2. The miracelous medal...I wore it the whole time I was pregnant with my ds. He was conceived on Accutane and is perfectly healthy. He should have had neurological problems but didn't.
3. I have smelled roses twice for no reason at all.
4. I prayed to God one day at Mass after it was about the sancitamony of marriage (yes I am an awful speller) about what to do with dh. God showed me the path that night. It was a very clear sign.
5. When I left the lawyers two days later I saw my Priest walking down the street.
6. When I saw the Priest yesterday while dropping ds off for crafts at the Parish Hall he knew something was wrong, he was loving and comforting.
7. I have known when people have died at work before anyone told me. I could feel and sense it. One time I thought I saw the other aide going down the hall. I saw someone going down it. It was late at night. The doors were locked so it had to be a worker. The aide I thought it was came down a few minutes later all in a panic that someone had died. I said I already knew...I saw him, he came to say goodbye to me. OK so everyone was freaked but I wasn't. I knew...
8. I am positive my youngest will someday be a saint.
9. I once was praying the Rosary with a palliative person and they died. The other nurses were so freaked out. I wasn't. I knew it was a good thing. I hope when my time comes I am saying a prayer that is so dear to me.
10. My car has been acting up. It's leaking antifreeze. I took the picture of Jesus out of it and it started doing this. I'm putting that picture back in. I know it will help...I just do know it.

Intentions...

1. For the Pope as he travels to Turkey.
2. For all those who serve the church, especially local priests named in our weekly bulletin.
3. For anyone considering the religious life.
4. For the holy souls in purgatory.
5. For the sancity of life in all forms.
6. For the poor.
7. For the sick, especially for mental illness.
8. For the Holy Souls in Purgatory.
9. For personal intentions for myself.

I've been tagged

Well another Catholic blogger has tagged anyone who reads their blog so I guess that means me ;) How exciting...I hardly ever get tagged.

5 Little known Facts About Me

1. My underclothes have to match.
2. I suck my thumb at night if I'd sad.
3. I smoke. (cigarettes, nothing else and only outside)
4. I can't stand the cold.
5. I sometimes think I should have been a nun.

Well I'll be like him and tag anyone who wants to be tagged!

My prayer book

Is now full...I posted pics of it before, unfortunately I don't have the pic anymore.

It is a journal book. I unwound the wire coil at the side. Covered the front and back with pretty paper, added nice decorations and put the wire back. Then I tied ribbons to the side of it. I want another, larger one.

And I want it organized better. LOL. I have stickies on the side for prayers I always say etc. but I'd like it organized alot better.

I guess before I do that I better get all the prayers I will ever want. I keep finding new ones that I want to add to it, like today I found some really good ones for the Holy Souls in Purgatory.

I printed them off...I'm actually going to give them to a patient at work so she can pray them tonight. I'm sure she'll love that.

Explaining All Soul's Day

OK, I cannot share alot of dk stories anymore but this one is OK I think.

This morning my oldest asks me if I know what day it is. I said All Soul's Day. Both her and her brother looked at me as if I had 2 heads. He asked me what was. I told him it was a day set aside for the souls of people who had died and were in Purgatory.

So of course...what is purgatory. I told him a place to go and cleanse yourself of your sins before going to heaven. I said it's like when you do something wrong at home Mommy forgives you but you still need to be punished.

How do I know that's true. I told him because the Church teaches that, and there is a passage in the Bible about it. I asked him if he wanted to find the passage later and look it up.

He still didn't think I knew anything. That his Mom is crazy. I told him to ask his teacher about it at school. I'm sure he will.

All Soul's Day

It's All Soul's Day...to pray for the souls in Purgatory.

I am saying some extra prayers today for them. Giving up meat for them as an offering of penance.

I am very upset...I would have liked to go to the cemetary to pray over his Aunt Rita's grave (she recently died) but I have no idea where she is buried. And he can't talk to me so I can't call and ask. So I will have to pray for her here.

All Saint's Day

Prayer for all Saints Day

Dear Father, You have given the saints in Heaven eternal happiness and they now live in the fullness of Your glory. Because of their holy love for You, they also care about me and my family, my friends, my church, and my neighbors. Thank You for the gift of their friendship and the witness of their holy lives. I ask our patron saints and every saint who has become especially dear to me to intercede for us. I ask them to help us journey safely on the narrow path that leads to Heaven. O Lord, give us their protection. Grant us their assistance in overcoming temptation and gaining the fullness of life with You. Amen.


I found this wonderful prayer on www.acatholiclife.com
It is a wonderful Catholic blog and has taught me alot.