Holy Family ‘19 - Model

The Holy Family models true family for us, as we continue to celebrate sour Lord’s Nativity. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/39iHfAK Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Christmas Day '19 - Make Room

Merry Christmas! The shepherds found room for the Lord. Can we?
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Christmas Eve ‘19 - Room

Merry Christmas! As we celebrate, we remember the One for which there was no room made room in God for us.
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4th Sunday Advent A ‘19 - Home

St. Joseph responds in action to his dream, and takes the Blessed Virgin Mother into his home. Are we able? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2EERelX Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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THINK

After some considerable prayer, I am posting the following.

Some are curious as to 'real reason' I left St. Peter 8 months ago. I already shared the reason honestly, but apparently there are further 'rumors'. More importantly, being notified of the death of Bishop Sirba of Duluth (I wonder how much of his heart was congenital versus caused by the stress of being a good bishop in the midst of such hard times). Then I read of Bishop Conley of Lincoln being open about his struggles and stepping away from ministry for time to heal. These reminded me that we all, even priests and bishops, need to be 'selfish' at times and ask for both prayers and help.

Especially as ministers of Christ, the Lord wants us to be healed and healthy so that we can lead others to Him without getting in the way. We become opaque and do not let the Lord shine through us as a transparent means if our health, whether physical, emotional, psychological or spiritual, is not being attended. We are going to be poor ministers, the less healthy we are, the more opaque we become. If we take care of these needs, we will be humble ministers who are able to be responsive to the Lord's will and lead others. That's something I have a more profound understanding of because of the last years.

I needed to step away. There were a number of stressors present during my nearly 6 year assignment in St. Peter. Due to a number of factors, I was not taking much time off and took no vacations. The parish faced high budget deficit which was beginning to grow out of control. The church building mortgage had little plan for payment. There were a number of staff concerns. Then there were a slew of baseless rumors. To be honest, it was these continued baseless and ultimately outlandish rumors and innuendoes that threw me over the top. I was to the point of defensiveness. I was not responding well to additional stressors, and they kept coming.

When Bishop LeVoir invited me to go for an extended mental health break starting after Easter, I accepted the opportunity immediately.  An evaluation that was part of this time determined that I was incredibly stressed and almost to burnout. My otherwise good coping mechanisms (prayer, good diet, and daily exercise) had not been sufficient. Because I had not been taking care of my needs as fully as I should have, I needed to take more time off (not only by extending my stay then, but also continue to take time off as I returned). It also became clear that I was not the one to bring resolution to all the challenges that the parish faced. Suffice it to say that it is easier to establish new patterns in a new location and to bring in someone new with fresh eyes for the Parish.

Truthfully, there is nothing more to share.

In the last weeks, I have been approached by several (people who are not from St. Peter but knew me from other assignments) who are concerned about some continuing rumors they have heard. I am trying not to be defensive or to sin by trying to protect my reputation - That's not mine to protect or defend anymore. There is no truth to the rumors, at least the ones that have made it to me. I am grateful that people have the courage to address them to the source before spreading them!!! We need more of this.

We need to realize that not every rumor is true, and the few elements of rumors that are true are often much more nuanced that people think or want to believe. There are people that love to start or spread rumors, either because they know the 'truth' or because they despise the other person (though they may not say this as bluntly). Having a tantalizing bit of gossip makes them feel important, but sharing it shows how really insignificant they make themselves to be.

We will be held accountable for our words by the Lord. Gossip is a sinful two-pronged fork, depending on whether what is shared is true or false. Sharing the truth about someone's sins or illegal activities with someone who has no need to know is detraction (and we are obligated to share proof with legitimate authorities). Sharing mistruths, even while think they are true, of someones' short fallings is calumny. Both are sins. People have a right to their good reputation, unless by a consistent pattern have hurt it - so we should not be quick to share anything that is hurtful. If there is doubt whether the other person has the right to know, DO NOT share it!

I like the acronym THINK for dealing with gossip - Is is True? Helpful (versus hurtful)? Inspiring? Necessary? Kind? If not, keep it to yourself or better yet, forget it.

Imagine what we could be like if we, instead of gossiping about another's failing, prayed for each other? What if we truly showed concern and kindness for each other instead of tearing them down or sharing lies to get our way? What if, instead of using 'evidence' of failures or crimes, we kept quiet with all others who have no need to know, at least at the time? What if we emphasized the positives in each other instead? What if we sought to speak only the helpful and inspiring things that are needed? What if we truly THINK before spreading gossip?

3rd Sunday Advent A '19 - Proof

John the Baptist's disciples are sent to see if Jesus is the long awaited Savior, and Jesus invites them to look and see the proof. What is the proof of Jesus's continued presence with us? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/34lB6A0 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Our Lady of Guadelupe '19

A little information on the image of Our Lady of Guadelupe on the tilma of St. Juan Diego. For more information, see https://ift.tt/2E9wkLd and https://ift.tt/2ta7vg1 Readings are found at https://ift.tt/36pgmZE Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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2nd Sunday Advent ‘19 - Repent

We are called to produce fruits of repentance. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2LAmeat Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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1st Sunday Of Advent A ‘19 - PRAY

As we begin Advent let’s PRAY to prepare well. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2rIJITA Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Thanksgiving’19

Happy Thanksgiving!
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Christ King Of The Universe ‘19 - Our King

Christ is King of the universe, but is He our King? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2scwmzr Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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32nd Thursday - Idols And False Gods

Wisdom is written about in a way that it appears as a divine person, and some have worshipped it as Sophia - is this proper? Why do humans find it so easy to worship creation? What are the implications? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/32EDSQ8 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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32 SOTC ‘19 - Earth Or Heaven

Are we judging heaven by earth , or earth by heaven? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/32ASX58 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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31st SOTC ‘19 - Called

Jesus calls Zacchaeus, and changed his life radically. He calls us, too, so how are we going to respond? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/34siwqe Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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All Souls '19 - Filled

We pray for all who have died, and await entrance into Heaven, waiting to be filled with the love of God. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/34mC2ED Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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All Saints ‘19 - Connected

As we celebrate all saints, let’s remember that we are all connected. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/329Q9vP Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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30th SOTC ‘19 - Righteous

Our Lord tells a parable of the Pharisee and Tax collector. They both go to the temple area to prayer, and both get what they want, but only one receives what he needs. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2NeNUBH Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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End Of Rosary Congress At HRC - Slaves

Our parish hosted 24 hours of prayer and Adoration beginning and ending with Mass, as part of the Diocese of New Ulm Rosary Congress. This is my homily for the closing Mass. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2JiFB6I Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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28th SOTC ‘19 - Ordinary

Naaman and the Samaritan Leper experience healing by doing something ordinary with extraordinary results. How is the Lord calling us to do the ordinary things? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2IKYKhs Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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27th SOTC ‘19 - Seeds

Jesus teaches that if we have faith as much as a mustard seed, we could move trees with a command. Do we have seeds of faith, expressed in power, love, and self-control? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Vj6dcQ Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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26th SOTC ‘19 - Consequences

The rich man and Lazarus both receive the consequences of their choices. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2mIMsyl Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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25th SOTC ‘19 - Squandered

Jesus tells a parable of a dishonest steward, whom He seems to praise. But the praise is not for the corruption, but for the fact that the steward had a different view of the 'mammon' of which he was given charge. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2OeJJbm Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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24th SOTC ‘19 - Prodigal

Our Lord tells three parables of rejoicing in finding the lost. The most famous is of the prodigal - but who is the prodigal and what does this mean for us? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2AhZt4X Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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23rd SOTC ‘19 - Calculated

The Lord asks us to calculate the cost of following Him, but when He asks us to hate others - what is He telling us? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2ZMcOSe Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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22nd SOTC ‘19 - Humility

Jesus invites all to humility, but what is humility and how can we grow in it? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2MQYtNE Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2 Find the 12 steps here: https://twitter.com/FrToddPetersen/status/1168168892176318466/photo/1
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21st SOTC ‘19 - Known

Salvation is more than knowing the Lord or doing the right things. Are we known by Him? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/30ypmsK Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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20th SOTC '19 - Cloud of Witnesses.MP3

Christ states that we will experience division. We are loved, though, by a great cloud of witnesses. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2P1E3Dp Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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19th SOTC - Action.MP3

Jesus is going to return. Are we prepared for His coming, putting our faith in action? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2YZFzd3 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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17th SOTC '19 - ACTS.MP3

Jesus teaches the disciples to pray, giving both the model and the request to be persistent. DO we pray boldly with Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3153hSL Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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16th SOTC - Busy

Martha asks Jesus to ask Mary to help her, but Jesus calls Martha to a different type of hospitality. Are we too busy to see the Lord? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2YkIUmF Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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15th SOTC '19 - Neighbors

Christ answers a question about loving neighbors with a question, Who was the neighbor? We might be wise to ask ourselves, too.Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Ll21qz Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz
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13th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Excuses.MP3

I apologize for the poor quality - I am excited to be back at the Ambo after a needed rest. What are our excuses for not following the Lord today? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2xhyzsG Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Home

As I was preparing to leave after eight weeks, the Lord was working overtime to make sure that I was ready. He asked what I wanted during my morning holy hour. That’s a question I hadn’t been asking. I knew the answer, Home. I wanted to be home. But not home sickness. I wanted Him to be my home. In a matter of seconds, I was overwhelmed with His presence and these words spilled out (not so prettily, I might add). Maybe the maybe the Lord wants you home, too, so I share these with you:

Home is not a place,

A “where” of maps, locations, or points,

A destination or departure,

Traveled to by planes or cars.

It is not a structure made for lodging,

And building constructed of wood or stone,

Mortar or brick.

There are no roof or floors,

neither windows nor doors,

Yet all are invited.

Home is a state of being,

An abiding in,

A being with,

Not only where the heart dwells,

But where the heart and the Holy Spirit reside,

In communication with each other.

Home is when joy overflows into tears and laughter,

When healing is found

In the source of all Being.

Home is love, mercy, forgiveness,

No, home is not a place,

But the enduring presence of our Lord,

Home is a “when”:

When the Lord reveals His love,

His providence, His protection,

When all is right with the world,

Because peace is found in the soul.

Home can be found a thousand miles from where we reside,

Or right where we are.

Home is a heart set free,

Singing with the angels and saints,

A harmony that the heart knows,

But the mind has yet to grasp.

Home is found only by the soul longing to travel inward to find Him waiting.

Announcement of my return

After 8 weeks of being away, I will be returning and moving into my new assignment in Marshall, MN.

A little update first, as some might be curious where I have been: In early April, I was invited by Bishop LeVoir to take a minimum of 3 weeks of retreat out of state. He was concerned about me for a number of reasons, most important of them was that he was concerned that I was extremely stressed. I thought that 3 weeks would be enough, but as it was, the issues that led to my stress and my responses were deeper and more entangled with my personal history than I was aware. To become more aware of the patterns, to find freedom, and to continue to rest from a stressful situation, I requested to stay a full 8 weeks. I am dealing with the issues that were Bishop LeVoir’s concerns, as well as some personal health issues of my own. I am rested, and intent to take better care of my personal need for prayer, rest, and recreation.

However, I realized that my being away required me to resign. Some of the stressors were not resolved on my departure, and because of the needs of the parishes I served, I requested to resign. (It had already been determined that I would be moving.) Fr. Denny Labat, now parochial administrator of St. Peter and Nicollet and I basically swapped positions. He is parochial administrator (pastor in responsibilities, but not in right to stay is the best understanding of his title), and I will be parochial vicar (Associate Pastor) in the Marshall area.

I am so pleased that Fr. Labat has agreed to take the position earlier than planned so that I can tend to my needs. 

I loved my time at St. Peter and Nicollet, but it is obvious that at this time our needs are different. Please join me in keeping the parishes and parishioners there in prayer, and if you have a few to spare, please pray for my continued healing from old wounds that are deep and painful.

Sequence for Pentecost

Come, Holy Spirit, come! And from your celestial home Shed a ray of light divine! Come, Father of the poor! Come, source of all our store! Come, within our bosoms shine. You, of comforters the best; You, the soul's most welcome guest; Sweet refreshment here below; In our labor, rest most sweet; Grateful coolness in the heat; Solace in the midst of woe. O most blessed Light divine, Shine within these hearts of yours, And our inmost being fill! Where you are not, we have naught, Nothing good in deed or thought, Nothing free from taint of ill. Heal our wounds, our strength renew; On our dryness pour your dew; Wash the stains of guilt away: Bend the stubborn heart and will; Melt the frozen, warm the chill; Guide the steps that go astray. On the faithful, who adore And confess you, evermore In your sevenfold gift descend; Give them virtue's sure reward; Give them your salvation, Lord; Give them joys that never end. Amen. Alleluia.

Ninth Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the final day of our novena.

NINTH DAY (Saturday, Vigil of Pentecost)

Thou, on those who evermore Thee confess and Thee Adore, in Thy sevenfold gift, Descend; Give Them Comfort when they die; Give them Life with Thee on high; Give them joys which never end. Amen

The Fruits of the Holy Spirit

The gifts of the Holy Spirit perfect the supernatural virtues by enabling us to practice them with greater docility to divine inspiration. As we grow in the knowledge and love of God under the direction of the Holy Spirit, our service becomes more sincere and generous, the practice of virtue more perfect. Such acts of virtue leave the heart filled with joy and consolation and are known as Fruits of the Holy Spirit. These Fruits in turn render the practice of virtue more attractive and become a powerful incentive for still greater efforts in the service of God, to serve Whom is to reign.

Prayer

Come, O Divine Spirit, fill my heart with Thy heavenly fruits, Thy charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, faith, mildness, and temperance, that I may never weary in the service of God, but by continued faithful submission to Thy inspiration may merit to be united eternally with Thee in the love of the Father and the Son. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Eighth Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the eighth day of our novena.

EIGHTH DAY (Friday, 7th Week of Easter)

Bend the stubborn heart and will, melt the frozen warm the chill. Guide the steps that go astray!

The Gift of Wisdom

Embodying all the other gifts, as charity embraces all the other virtues, Wisdom is the most perfect of the gifts. Of wisdom it is written "all good things came to me with her, and innumerable riches through her hands." It is the gift of Wisdom that strengthens our faith, fortifies hope, perfects charity, and promotes the practice of virtue in the highest degree. Wisdom enlightens the mind to discern and relish things divine, in the appreciation of which earthly joys lose their savor, whilst the Cross of Christ yields a divine sweetness according to the words of the Saviour: "Take up thy cross and follow me, for my yoke is sweet and my burden light.

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Wisdom, and reveal to my soul the mysteries of heavenly things, their exceeding greatness, power and beauty. Teach me to love them above and beyond all the passing joys and satisfactions of earth. Help me to attain them and possess them for ever. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Seventh Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the seventh day of our novena.

SEVENTH DAY (Thursday, 7th Week of Easter)

Heal our wounds--our strength renews; On our dryness pour Thy dew, Wash the stains of guilt away.

The Gift of Counsel

The gift of Counsel endows the soul with supernatural prudence, enabling it to judge promptly and rightly what must done, especially in difficult circumstances. Counsel applies the principles furnished by Knowledge and Understanding to the innumerable concrete cases that confront us in the course of our daily duty as parents, teachers, public servants, and Christian citizens. Counsel is supernatural common sense, a priceless treasure in the quest of salvation. "Above all these things, pray to the Most High, that He may direct thy way in truth."

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Counsel, help and guide me in all my ways, that I may always do Thy holy will. Incline my heart to that which is good; turn it away from all that is evil, and direct me by the straight path of Thy commandments to that goal of eternal life for which I long.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Sixth Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the sixth day of our novena.

SIXTH DAY (Wednesday, 7th Week of Easter)

If Thou take Thy grace away, nothing pure in man will stay, All his good is turn'd to ill.

The Gift of Understanding

Understanding, as a gift of the Holy Spirit, helps us to grasp the meaning of the truths of our holy religion BY faith we know them, but by Understanding we learn to appreciate and relish them. It enables us to penetrate the inner meaning of revealed truths and through them to be quickened to newness of life. Our faith ceases to be sterile and inactive, but inspires a mode of life that bears eloquent testimony to the faith that is in us; we begin to "walk worthy of God in all things pleasing, and increasing in the knowledge of God."

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Understanding, and enlighten our minds, that we may know and believe all the mysteries of salvation; and may merit at last to see the eternal light in Thy Light; and in the light of glory to have a clear vision of Thee and the Father and the Son. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Fifth Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the fifth day of our novena.

FIFTH DAY (Tuesday, 7th Week of Easter)

Light immortal! Light Divine! Visit Thou these hearts of Thine, And our inmost being fill!

The Gift of Knowledge

The gift of Knowledge enables the soul to evaluate created things at their true worth--in their relation to God. Knowledge unmasks the pretense of creatures, reveals their emptiness, and points out their only true purpose as instruments in the service of God. It shows us the loving care of God even in adversity, and directs us to glorify Him in every circumstance of life. Guided by its light, we put first things first, and prize the friendship of God beyond all else. "Knowledge is a fountain of life to him that possesseth it."

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Knowledge, and grant that I may perceive the will of the Father; show me the nothingness of earthly things, that I may realize their vanity and use them only for Thy glory and my own salvation, looking ever beyond them to Thee, and Thy eternal rewards. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Fourth Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the fourth day of our novena.

FOURTH DAY (Monday, 7th Week of Easter)

Thou in toil art comfort sweet, Pleasant coolness in the heat, solace in the midst of woe.

The Gift of Fortitude

The Gift of Fortitude By the gift of Fortitude the soul is strengthened against natural fear, and supported to the end in the performance of duty. Fortitude imparts to the will an impulse and energy which move it to under take without hesitancy the most arduous tasks, to face dangers, to trample under foot human respect, and to endure without complaint the slow martyrdom of even lifelong tribulation. "He that shall persevere unto the end, he shall be saved."

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Fortitude, uphold my soul in time of trouble and adversity, sustain my efforts after holiness, strengthen my weakness, give me courage against all the assaults of my enemies, that I may never be overcome and separated from Thee, my God and greatest Good. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Third Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the third day of our novena.

THIRD DAY (7th Sunday of Easter)

Thou, of all consolers best, Visiting the troubled breast, Dost refreshing peace bestow.

The Gift of Piety

The gift of Piety begets in our hearts a filial affection for God as our most loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect for His sake persons and things consecrated to Him, as well as those who are vested with His authority, His Blessed Mother and the Saints, the Church and its visible Head, our parents and superiors, our country and its rulers. He who is filled with the gift of Piety finds the practice of his religion, not a burdensome duty, but a delightful service. Where there is love, there is no labor.

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Piety, possess my heart. Enkindle therein such a love for God, that I may find satisfaction only in His service, and for His sake lovingly submit to all legitimate authority. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

Second Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

We join in the second day of our novena.

SECOND DAY (Saturday, 6th Week of Easter)

Come. Father of the poor. Come, treasures which endure; Come, Light of all that live!

The Gift of Fear

The gift of Fear fills us with a sovereign respect for God, and makes us dread nothing so much as to offend Him by sin. It is a fear that arises, not from the thought of hell, but from sentiments of reverence and filial submission to our heavenly Father. It is the fear that is the beginning of wisdom, detaching us from worldly pleasures that could in any way separate us from God. "They that fear the Lord will prepare their hearts, and in His sight will sanctify their souls."

Prayer

Come, O blessed Spirit of Holy Fear, penetrate my inmost heart, that I may set you, my Lord and God, before my face forever, help me to shun all things that can offend You, and make me worthy to appear before the pure eyes of Your Divine Majesty in heaven, where You live and reign in the unity of the ever Blessed Trinity, God world without end. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

First Day of Novena to the Holy Spirit

Today, we begin the nine day prayer - a novena - asking for the Holy Spirit and His Seven Gifts.

FIRST DAY (Friday, 6th Week of Easter)

Holy Spirit! Lord of Light! From Your clear celestial height, Your pure beaming radiance give!

The Holy Spirit

Only one thing is important -- eternal salvation. Only one thing, therefore, is to be feared--sin· Sin is the result of ignorance, weakness, and indifference The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Light, of Strength, and of Love. With His sevenfold gifts He enlightens the mind, strengthens the will, and inflames the heart with love of God. To ensure our salvation we ought to invoke the Divine Spirit daily, for "The Spirit helpeth our infirmity. We know not what we should pray for as we ought. But the Spirit Himself asketh for us."

Prayer

Almighty and eternal God, Who hast vouchsafed to regenerate us by water and the Holy Spirit, and hast given us forgiveness all sins, vouchsafe to send forth from heaven upon us your sevenfold Spirit, the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding, the Spirit of Counsel and fortitude, the Spirit of Knowledge and Piety, and fill us with the Spirit of Holy Fear. Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary ONCE. Glory be to the Father SEVEN TIMES.

ACT OF CONSECRATION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT On my knees before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses, I offer myself, soul and body to You, Eternal Spirit of God. I adore the brightness of Your purity, the unerring keenness of Your justice, and the might of Your love. You are the Strength and Light of my soul. In You I live and move and am. I desire never to grieve You by unfaithfulness to grace and I pray with all my heart to be kept from the smallest sin against You. Mercifully guard my every thought and grant that I may always watch for Your light, and listen to Your voice, and follow Your gracious inspirations. I cling to You and give myself to You and ask You, by Your compassion to watch over me in my weakness. Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus and looking at His Five Wounds, and trusting in His Precious Blood and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart, I implore You, Adorable Spirit, Helper of my infirmity, to keep me in Your grace that I may never sin against You. Give me grace, O Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Father and the Son to say to You always and everywhere, "Speak Lord for Your servant heareth." Amen.

To be recited daily during the Novena

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT O Lord Jesus Christ Who, before ascending into heaven did promise to send the Holy Spirit to finish Your work in the souls of Your Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me that He may perfect in my soul, the work of Your grace and Your love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal, the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation, the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Your true disciples and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen.

(To be recited daily during the Novena)

A Note from Bishop LeVoir

Fr. Todd is appreciative of all your prayers and support while he has been away on retreat. He is doing very well and is getting some much needed time for rest, renewal and prayer. Please continue to keep him in your daily prayer. While on retreat Fr. Todd has come to realize that he needs more time for rest and renewal. Bishop LeVoir has accepted Fr. Todd’s request for an extended time away from parish ministry. Fr. Todd will not be returning to the Churches of St. Peter in St. Peter and St. Paul in Nicollet for ministry. He has accepted the Bishop’s invitation to serve as a senior associate pastor in the Churches of Holy Redeemer in Marshall, St. Michael in Milroy and St. Mary in Tracy effective July 2, 2019. Bishop LeVoir has appointed Fr. Denny Labat to serve on an interim basis as the Parochial Administrator for the Churches of St. Peter in St. Peter and St. Paul in Nicollet. Fr. Denny Labat’s arrival as the Parochial Administrator is still being determined. In the meantime, the Diocese of New Ulm will continue to provide priests to celebrate the weekend Masses, the Sacraments and funerals in the two parishes. Your prayers and patience during this time of transition are needed and appreciated. We will continue to provide you further updates as they are needed. 

Fr. Steve Verhelst

Director of Priest Personnel 

Diocese of New Ulm

Divine Mercy Sunday

Divine Mercy Sunday Divine Mercy Sunday, we are encouraged to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet:

Here's How: Make the Sign of the Cross Pray the Opening Prayers The second prayer is repeated three times:"You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us.""O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You!" (three times) Pray the Our Father Pray the Hail Mary Say the Apostles' Creed Pray the Prayer "Eternal Father" On the Our Father bead before each decade, pray the following prayer: "Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world. Amen."Pray the Prayer "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion" Ten Times On each of the Hail Mary beads in each decade, pray the following prayer: "For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world."Repeat Steps 6 and 7 On each of the next four decades of the Chaplet, repeat steps 6 and 7 (pray the Eternal Father, followed by ten "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion"). Pray the Concluding Doxology Three Times After you have prayed all five decades of the Chaplet, pray the following prayer, which is repeated three times: "Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world." (three times)Pray the Closing Prayer After the doxology, pray the following final prayer: "Eternal God, in Whom mercy is endless, and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us, and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments, we might not despair, nor become despondent, but with great confidence, submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy Itself. Amen."End With the Sign of the Cross

Ninth Day of the Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Saturday)

Ninth Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Saturday) Divine Mercy Novena - Ninth Day - Prayer for Ninth Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.

Eighth Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Friday)

Divine Mercy Novena - Ninth Day - Prayer for Ninth Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love, let these tepid souls who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.

Seventh Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Thursday)

Divine Mercy Novena - Seventh Day - Prayer for Seventh Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy; and united to You, O Jesus, they carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their hearts, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless mercy of His, He, Himself, will defend as His glory. Amen.

Sixth Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Wednesday)

Divine Mercy Novena - Sixth Day - Prayer for Sixth Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart." Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father's favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God Himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Ame

Fifth Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter Tuesday)

Divine Mercy Novena - Fifth Day - Prayer for Fifth Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Church. Draw them by Your light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who have separated themselves from Your Son's Church, who have squandered Your blessings and misused Your graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your own Son and upon His bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they also may glorify Your great mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Retreat

Bishop LeVoir has invited me to take part in a 3-week retreat, which will start tomorrow. I will be limited in email and social media access (though I have set an auto forward of Bishop LeVoir's tweets). I will not be available by phone. I am looking forward to this time away. In the last years, I have not taken care of days of rest and prayer, especially even retreats. This, combined with the unique circumstances in which I find myself here at the parishes have weighed too heavy on me. This time away is to heal, pray, rest, and restore. Know my prayers.

Easter Sunday '19 - Layers

Jesus Christ is Risen, and the Church's Liturgy helps us to see this with layers of symbolism. Do we strive to understand it? Readings are found at http://bit.ly/2Zhc5oi Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
via View From the Ambo Podcast

Sequence for Easter

Christians, to the Paschal Victim Offer your thankful praises! A Lamb the sheep redeems; Christ, who only is sinless, Reconciles sinners to the Father. Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous: The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal. Speak, Mary, declaring What you saw, wayfaring. "The tomb of Christ, who is living, The glory of Jesus' resurrection; bright angels attesting, The shroud and napkin resting. Yes, Christ my hope is arisen; to Galilee he goes before you." Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining. Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning! Amen. Alleluia.

Third Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Easter)

Divine Mercy Novena - Third Day - Prayer for Third Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.

Easter Exultet

Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven, exult, let Angel ministers of God exult, let the trumpet of salvation sound aloud our mighty King's triumph! Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness. Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice, arrayed with the lightning of his glory, let this holy building shake with joy, filled with the mighty voices of the peoples. (Therefore, dearest friends, standing in the awesome glory of this holy light, invoke with me, I ask you, the mercy of God almighty, that he, who has been pleased to number me, though unworthy, among the Levites, may pour into me his light unshadowed, that I may sing this candle's perfect praises). (Deacon: The Lord be with you. People: And with your spirit.) Deacon: Lift up your hearts. People: We lift them up to the Lord. Deacon: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People: It is right and just. It is truly right and just, with ardent love of mind and heart and with devoted service of our voice, to acclaim our God invisible, the almighty Father, and Jesus Christ, our Lord, his Son, his Only Begotten. Who for our sake paid Adam's debt to the eternal Father, and, pouring out his own dear Blood, wiped clean the record of our ancient sinfulness. These, then, are the feasts of Passover, in which is slain the Lamb, the one true Lamb, whose Blood anoints the doorposts of believers. This is the night, when once you led our forebears, Israel's children, from slavery in Egypt and made them pass dry-shod through the Red Sea. This is the night that with a pillar of fire banished the darkness of sin. This is the night that even now throughout the world, sets Christian believers apart from worldly vices and from the gloom of sin, leading them to grace and joining them to his holy ones. This is the night when Christ broke the prison-bars of death and rose victorious from the underworld. Our birth would have been no gain, had we not been redeemed. O wonder of your humble care for us! O love, O charity beyond all telling, to ransom a slave you gave away your Son! O truly necessary sin of Adam, destroyed completely by the Death of Christ! O happy fault that earned for us so great, so glorious a Redeemer! O truly blessed night, worthy alone to know the time and hour when Christ rose from the underworld! This is the night of which it is written: The night shall be as bright as day, dazzling is the night for me, and full of gladness. The sanctifying power of this night dispels wickedness, washes faults away, restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners, drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty. On this, your night of grace, O holy Father, accept this candle, a solemn offering, the work of bees and of your servants' hands, an evening sacrifice of praise, this gift from your most holy Church. But now we know the praises of this pillar, a flame divided but undimmed, which glowing fire ignites for God's honour, a fire into many flames divided, yet never dimmed by sharing of its light, for it is fed by melting wax, drawn out by mother bees to build a torch so precious. O truly blessed night, when things of heaven are wed to those of earth, and divine to the human. Therefore, O Lord, we pray you that this candle, hallowed to the honour of your name, may persevere undimmed, to overcome the darkness of this night. Receive it as a pleasing fragrance, and let it mingle with the lights of heaven. May this flame be found still burning by the Morning Star: the one Morning Star who never sets, Christ your Son, who, coming back from death's domain, has shed his peaceful light on humanity, and lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Saturday Office of Readings

From the Office of Readings for Holy Saturday: Something strange is happening—there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear. He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: ‘My Lord be with you all.’ Christ answered him: ‘And with your spirit.’ He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: ‘Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’ I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. Out of love for you and for your descendants I now by my own authority command all who are held in bondage to come forth, all who are in darkness to be enlightened, all who are sleeping to arise. I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be held a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead. Rise up, work of my hands, you who were created in my image. Rise, let us leave this place, for you are in me and I am in you; together we form only one person and we cannot be separated. For your sake I, your God, became your son; I, the Lord, took the form of a slave; I, whose home is above the heavens, descended to the earth and beneath the earth. For your sake, for the sake of man, I became like a man without help, free among the dead. For the sake of you, who left a garden, I was betrayed to the Jews in a garden, and I was crucified in a garden. See on my face the spittle I received in order to restore to you the life I once breathed into you. See there the marks of the blows I received in order to refashion your warped nature in my image. On my back see the marks of the scourging I endured to remove the burden of sin that weighs upon your back. See my hands, nailed firmly to a tree, for you who once wickedly stretched out your hand to a tree. I slept on the cross and a sword pierced my side for you who slept in paradise and brought forth Eve from your side. My side has healed the pain in yours. My sleep will rouse you from your sleep in hell. The sword that pierced me has sheathed the sword that was turned against you. Rise, let us leave this place. The enemy led you out of the earthly paradise. I will not restore you to that paradise, but I will enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, I who am life itself am now one with you. I appointed cherubim to guard you as slaves are guarded, but now I make them worship you as God. The throne formed by cherubim awaits you, its bearers swift and eager. The bridal chamber is adorned, the banquet is ready, the eternal dwelling places are prepared, the treasure houses of all good things lie open. The kingdom of heaven has been prepared for you from all eternity.

Second Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Holy Saturday)

Divine Mercy Novena - Second Day - Prayer for Second Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard—upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.

Good Friday '19 - For the World

Jesus is the Lamb of God, offered for the world's salvation. Readings are found at http://bit.ly/2Xo2N8b Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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First Day of Divine Mercy Novena (Good Friday)

Divine Mercy Novena - First Day - Prayer for First Day of Divine Mercy Novena Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Thursday '19 - Sacrifce

Jesus gives us the model of love, the priesthood, and the New Passover - all connected by sacrifice. Readings are found at http://bit.ly/2Gmf7ir Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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St. Faustian's Prayer to be Merciful

O Most Holy Trinity! As many times as I breathe, as many times as my heart beats, as many times as my blood pulsates through my body, so many thousand times do I want to glorify your mercy. I want to be completely transformed into your mercy and to be Your living reflection O Lord. May the greatest of all divine attributes, that of your unfathomable mercy pass through my heart and soul to my neighbor. Help me O Lord that my eyes may be merciful, so that I may never suspect or judge from appearances, but look for what is beautiful in my neighbors souls and come to their rescue. Help me O Lord that my ears may be merciful, so that I may give heed to my neighbors needs and not be indifferent to their pains and moanings. Help me O Lord that my tongue may be merciful so that I should never speak negatively of my neighbor, but have a word of comfort and forgiveness for all. Help me O Lord that my hands may be merciful and filled with good deeds, so that I may do only good to my neighbors and take upon my self the more difficult and toilsome tasks. Help me O Lord that my feet may be merciful, so that I may hurry to assist my neighbor, overcoming my own fatigue and weariness. My true rest is in the service of my neighbor. Help me O Lord that my heart may be merciful so that I myself may feel all the sufferings of my neighbor. I will refuse my heart to no one. I will be sincere even with those who will abuse my kindness. And I will lock myself up in the most merciful Heart of Jesus. I will bear my own suffering in silence. May your mercy O Lord rest upon me. You yourself command me to exercise the three degrees of mercy. The first; the act of mercy of whatever kind. The second; the word of mercy – if I cannot carry out a work of mercy, I will assist by my words. The third; prayer – if I cannot show mercy by deeds or words, I can always do so by prayer. My prayer reaches out even there where I cannot reach out physically. O my Jesus, transform me into yourself, for you can do all things.

Passion Sunday C '19 - Hearts nailed to the Cross

Jesus can change our hearts, if we let Him, and He wants them with Him through the Cross to Resurrection. Readings are found at http://bit.ly/2VDJcR3 Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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5th Sunday Lent C '19 - Forgiven

Jesus is confronted with a test regarding a woman caught in adultery. He gives her forgiveness, and sets a model for us. Readings are found at http://bit.ly/2I5V8Yv Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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4th Sunday Lent C '19 - Reckless

Jesus invites us to reflect on our relationship with the Father in the parable of the "Prodigal Son", rather the "Lost Sons and Prodigal Father". Do we accept the reckless love of the Father, and rejoice when others turn back to Him? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2FRkJkL Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Lent and Transfiguration

Yearly, on the Second Sunday of Lent, the Catholic Lectionary has the Gospel passage of the Transfiguration from one of the three synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark or Luke). This might seem a little odd. After all, the Transfiguration, on its surface, seems so distant from the spiritual preparations of Lent. It seems too hopeful, too positive to fit. But that would be a mischaracterization of the Transfiguration. First, what is the Transfiguration? Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He shares the same divinity, the same nature as God the Father and the Holy Spirit, but they are three persons. He became incarnate, taking on human nature with all that goes with it except sin. He has a human body and soul, intellect and will. This humanity ‘hid’ His divinity. In the Transfiguration, occurring on Mount Tabor, that divinity was allowed to shine forth. He became dazzling. But more important, He conversed with Moses (giver of the Law) and Elijah (the most important of the prophets) from the Old Testament, both symbols of Jesus’ mission and ministry, that He would fulfill the Law and the prophets. The apostles Peter, James and John witnessed this vision of Christ in His glory. Peter did not know how to respond - he states, “Lord, it is good that we are here. Let us build three tents…” He recognizes the beauty of the revelation, but desires to stay there (though the tents might refer to the Jewish Festival of Booths, when they lived in tents in honor of the harvest). But Jesus was about something else. Especially in Luke’s account, it is clear that Moses and Elijah are speaking of His “Exodus” - that He was going to be the way to salvation through His death on the Cross. The Transfiguration was a means of preparing for the scandal of the Cross. St. Peter says as much in his letter, when he wrote that we are not following cleverly devised myths because he was a witness of the glory of Jesus Christ’s glory in the Transfiguration (2 Peter). What does this have to do with us and our Lenten preparations? We might be like St. Peter. We might recognize the beauty of the Risen Christ, and we might become too comfortable, we want to stay comfortable. But Christ invites us to enter into His death and resurrection, especially in this Lenten season. Hearing of the Transfiguration might invite us to consider the glory we have witnessed in the Resurrection, and remind ourselves that the glory we see is preparing us for something greater. We must be willing to follow Christ through this Lenten season into the glory not only of His Resurrection, but to the eternal life He died to give us. The Transfiguration reminds us that something more, something greater, awaits. We need to get uncomfortable, though. But we might recall, as Pope Benedict XVI stated, we are not made for comfort. We are made for greatness. We prepare for greatness in Lent!

3rd Sunday Lent C '19 - Figs

Using the news of the day, Jesus tells his hearers to produce fruits of repentance. His image of figs reminds us not to get comfortable. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2UUCCFk Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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2nd Sunday Lent C '19 - Comfort

As the Lord is transfigured in the presence of Peter, James, and John, He reminds them of who He is and prepares them for the discomfort of the Cross, but the glory of the Kingdom. Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2THvmAm Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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1st Sunday Lent C '19 - Temptation

Jesus Christ endures temptation, and provides the model for us. Do we see how our temptations are to selfishness? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2XHeKXQ Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Ash Wednesday C '19 - Melt

As we enter the sacred season of Lent, are we able to let the Lord melt us? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2XHeKXQ Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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8th Sunday C '19 - Blind

Jesus teaches that the blind cannot lead the blind, and that those blinded by their own faults cannot heal others of theirs. Where are we blind? Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Vx7Pyd Give feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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