Tag: peace
Our skill may end us
I believe we are going to have to prepare ourselves for the difficult and patient task of outgrowing rigid and intransigent nationalism, and work slowly towards a world federation of peaceful nations. How will this be possible? Don’t ask me. I don’t know. But unless we develop a moral, spiritual, and political wisdom that is… Read More ›
Penance comes before grace
Just as John [the Baptist] came before Jesus, so penance comes before grace, before that grace of reconciliation which receives us into the kiss of peace after we have made satisfaction. For in this way of penance righteousness and peace kiss each other and run with eager and lighthearted step to meet him. The righteousness,… Read More ›
To enjoy small things
Life on a daily basis has many frustrations. There is also real suffering that can cause a great deal of anxiety, fear and physical pain. The darker colors get our attention, as they should since they need to b dealt with. Often the many subtle colors of the day, the so called small pleasures are… Read More ›
Remove Rocks from the ‘Stream of Life’
Once received, graces are enhanced every time we are diligent, overcome a bad habit, confess a sin (making a real effort not to repeat it), or turn away from what tempts us. God blesses us to encourage us in good and withdraws blessings to indicate when we are in error. Graces are enhanced every time… Read More ›
Pray for a spirit of love to dominate your family time this Christmas
Q: Our extended family is getting together for Christmas this year, and I have to admit I’m not looking forward to it. Some of our relatives don’t get along with each other, and I’m afraid we’ll just end up squabbling. Any suggestions? — Mrs. L.R. A: My first (and most important) suggestion is that you commit your… Read More ›
Beating their swords into ploughshares?
Augustine, for all his pessimism about human nature, did not foresee the logical results of his thought, and in the original context, his “wars of mercy” to defend civilized order make a certain amount of sense. Always his idea is that the Church and the Christians, whatever they may do, are aiming at ultimate peace…. Read More ›
Thomas Merton: A Prayer
… Grant us prudence in proportion to our power, Wisdom in proportion to our science, Humaneness in proportion to our wealth and might. And bless our earnest will to help all races and peoples to travel, in friendship with us, Along the road to justice, liberty and lasting peace: But grant us above all to… Read More ›
Holy Water and Blessings Are Especially Crucial at Doctor’s Offices and Hospitals
It is always a good idea to use sacramentals when visiting a doctor and certainly in the hospital. Medals. The Crucifix (especially). Holy Water. For many years now there have been accounts — particularly from nurses (but also regular laity and priests) — about the spiritual dynamics at our health care centers. People of all… Read More ›
Fatima: October 13
During World War I Pope Benedict XV made repeated but forlorn pleas for peace, and finally, in May 1917, made a direct appeal to Mary to intercede for peace in the world. The response was Mary’s first appearance at Fatima just over a week later. At this time Fatima was just a small village about… Read More ›
Blessed be the Lord in all things
When Abba Macarius was in Egypt, he found a man who had brought a beast to his cell and he was steeling his possessions. He went up to the thief as though he were a traveler who did not live there and helped him to load the beast and led him on his way in… Read More ›