Jan. 17CHIPPEWA FALLS A Cadott man will serve eight months in jail after he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in December 2020. View all the saints who celebrate a feast day in the month of December. Mark 3:1-6. . There is also the Yet this saint is not the least by any means, as tradition holds that St. Thomas evangelized not only India, but much of the globe - including the western hemisphere. The Church announces to us today, in her Office of Lauds, these solemn words: This is the last Feast the Church keeps before the great one of the Nativity of her Lord and Spouse. In the Nordic countries, St. Thomass Day was regarded as the first day of the Christmas season. of Canada, the 21st December was "pie day". This confession is in line with Thomas' life as a missionary to the farthest parts of the world where his witness is still honored and remembered. Two days later, he tells his disciples that He is going to see about Lazerus back in Galilee. The Collect. View All Posts. what horrid crime is this I see committed in thy presence by the reprobate Jews! Know this: The Lord himself is God; * he himself has made us, and we are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. They are saved for the feast of the Epiphany, and are thawed, reheated and eaten. Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor. To none of the Apostles could this day have been so fittingly assigned, as to St Thomas. 3 He will not let your foot be moved *and he who watches over you will not fall asleep. day of charity, when the poor women went a "Thomasing" or The Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, 21 Wed. Dec. 2022. 8 The Lord shall watch over your going out andyour coming in, *from this time forth for evermore. 6 So that the sun shall not strike you by day, *nor the moon by night. 4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I shall fear no evil; *for you are with me;your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Like Thomas, all Christians have moments of doubt, moments when our faith is weak. Dandelion Ministries (www.dandelionministries.org) Other accounts say he went as far as Indonesia and maybe even China. Jesus loves us dearly. preparations for Christmas. Amen. Catholic Online is a Project of Your Catholic Voice Foundation, a Not-for-Profit Corporation. This is the last Feast the Church keeps before the great one of the Nativity of her Lord and Spouse. Catholic Online School - Free education with 1,000,000 student enrollments. Passionate Catholic. December 21 is usually the shortest day of the year, yet this day usually commenced the Christmas preparation of cleaning and baking. come and enlighten them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death. Bl. handkerchief under your head hmmm. Ive heard of lavender sachets - AnaStpaul ADVENT REFLECTIONS, FEASTS and SOLEMNITIES, PATRONAGE - Against DOUBT, those in DOUBT, PATRONAGE - BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION WORKERS, PATRONAGE - EYES, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS, The NATIVITY of JESUS 7 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; *it is he who shall keep you safe. 6 Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, *and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. This is from my collection of hymns on the martyrs and other festivals of faith not quite in the regular Sundays of the year. Catholic Online YouTube - over 4,800 Catholic videos. Thomas encourages the others to follow Jesus, even into death. St. Thomas was once guilty of doubting, when he ought to have believed; and only learned the necessity of Faith by the sad experience of incredulity: he comes then most appropriately to defend us, by the power of his example and prayers, against the temptations which proud human reason might excite within us. Posted in JESUIT SJ, MARIAN TITLES, NOVENAS, SAINT of the DAY, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS Feast of St Thomas, Apostle of Christ, Christmas Novena to the Christ Child, Day Six, Notre-Dame de Saint-Acheul / Our Lady of Saint Acheul, Amiens, France, (4th Century) and Memorials of the Saints - 21 December From now on you do know him and have seen him., Canticle 20 Glory to God Gloria in excelsis. This site, which is now using the Traditional Calendar, will mainly concentrate on Daily Prayers, Novenas and the Memorials and Feast Days of our friends in Heaven, the Saints who went before us and the great blessings the Church provides in our Catholic Monthly Devotions. The tradition isnt followed as strictly anymore, but the Helsinki Christmas Market at the Senate Square is still referred to as St. Thomas Market (Tuomaan Markkinat), even though today it starts well before St. Thomass Day. When thy hand touched Jesus' side, thou didst find the perfection of good things; for, as a mystic sponge, thou didst thence imbibe the water of life, the fount of all that is good, and didst drink in everlasting life; whereby thou didst cleanse men's minds from ignorance, giving them to drink of the divine dogmas of the knowledge of God.Thou didst, by thine own incredulity and thy after-faith, confirm such as were tempted: for thou didst proclaim to all men, how He, that is thy Lord and thy God, became incarnate on this earth for us, was nailed to the Cross and suffered death, and had his side opened with a spear, whence we draw life. Be joyful in the Lord, all you lands; * Reach out your hand and put it into my side. That is his definitive answer to all of our distress. Thou art traversing Judea; thou art near Jerusalem; the journey of Mary and Joseph is nigh its term. To none of the Apostles could this day have been so fittingly assigned as to St. Thomas. Mark 3:20-21. (The Mozarabic Breviary, Monday of the Fifth Week, Oratio. Amen. 21 December 2021. John gives us a rich picture of faith in Thomas' comments, from questions to doubt, to a rousing confession of faith. For them, the celebration marks the beginning of the Christmas season. And when he is convinced that Jesus has risen after he has seen his wounds, Thomas confesses that Jesus is "My Lord and my God!" Sausage For after thou hadst enlightened these people, and made them to be children of the light and day, thou, by the Spirit of God, didst wisely overthrow the temples of their idols, and didst elevate the people to the love of God, making them an honour and a glory to the Church, O thou that helpest us by thy intercession! They spurn thy Son, that was foretold in the Law, and remain in the gulf of their incredulity: whereas, they, to whom he was not announced, have seen him; and they who heard not, contemplated him, in their spirit. Whatever your particular concern is, the fact is that we do not know how things will play out today. Every morning, we rise and stare uncertainty in the face. The day finishing our external Cutchogue, NY. Amen. (we name our prayers and intercessions, concluding with:). Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. And that means you are freejust like the psalmist said. And yet this Child is thyself, O Sun of Justice! Thomas is known as Doubting Thomas as he was the apostle who wouldn't believe Christ had been resurrected until Christ appeared in front of him and he'd felt the nail wounds in Christ's hands and the wound in his side. They carry incense and holy water, which they sprinkle around as they walk. Thomas's feast day is the traditional date of his death in AD 72. Note* Sorry this is late I'm posting this for archival purposes (this weekends Bulletins will be posted later today). God of promise,you have given us a sign of your lovethrough the gift of Jesus Christ, our Savior,who was promised from ages past.We believe as Joseph didthe message of your presencewhispered by an angel,and offer our prayers for your world,confident of your care and mercy for all creation. He taught the principles of Christian faith and practice to the Parthians, Medes, Persians, Hircanians, and Bactrians. Saint of the Day 21 December Feast of St Thomas, Apostle of Christ, Martyr. Amove ergo, quaesumus, quidquid resistit tibi in opere, ut credulo pectore sic in nobis virgulta donorum praepolleant, ut radix humilitatis nunquam arescat. Your Catholic Voice Foundation has been granted a recognition of tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Instructions of 'How to Dream About Your Future Husband' - climb into bed using a The Lord be with you.And also with you.Let us pray. TheLordis on my side;I will not fear. Although we no longer honor St. Thomas on this day, we can still use this day as a reminder to put in exerted efforts and start finishing our external preparations for Christmas. 138, 1, 2. Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. It was changed in 1969. The incense was often mixed with pieces of palm branches from Easter and blessed herbs from the Feast of the Assumption. Isaiah 40:5. O God, our Father! St. Thomas day, St. Thomas gray, The longest night and (John 20:24-29). And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. Thou didst imitate the passion of Jesus, thou wast pierced in thy side, thou hast put on immortality. In that Heaven of Light and Vision, where his repentance and love have placed him, he will intercede for us,and gain for us that docility of mind and heart, which will enable us to see and recognise Him, Who is the Expected of Nations and Who, though the King of the world, will give no other signs of His Majesty, than the swaddling-clothes and tears of a Babe. Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Proudly created with Wix.com, Martyrdom of St. Thomas by Peter Paul Rubens. Copyright 2022 Catholic Online. Jennifer Gregory Miller Jennifer G. Miller. When the feast of Saint Thomas was originally introduced in the 9th century, it was observed on December 21 to commemorate his martyrdom. In Matthew 16, Jesus asks his disciples, who do people say that I am? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. Da nobis, qusumus, Domine, beati Apostoli tui Thom solemnitatibus gloriari: ut ejus semper et patrociniis sublevemur, et Fidem congrua devotione sectemur. feast of the Epiphany, and are thawed, reheated and eaten. The disciples did not understand everything that Jesus taught them, but they loved Him dearly and were intensely devoted to Him. door, toes first. They show how Thomas, transformed by his faith, had the courage and grit to do as Jesus commanded when he gave the great commission to go unto the uttermost parts of the earth to teach and preach his gospel. Catholic Online Prayer Candles - light your prayer candle. Daily Readings - viewed over 100 million times worldwide. When the feast of Saint Thomas was originally introduced in the 9th century, it was observed on December 21 to commemorate his martyrdom. Divina videns, Christi Sapientiae spiritualis demonstratus es crater mysticus, O Thoma Apostole, in quem fidelium animae laetantur, et Spiritus sagena populos eruisti ex abysso ignorantiae: unde ex Sion sicut fluvius devenisti charitatis, tua divina scaturire faciens dogmata in omnem creaturam. Grant, O Lord, we beseech thee, that we may rejoice on the solemnity of thy blessed Apostle, Thomas; to the end that we may always have the assistance of his prayers, and zealously profess the faith he taught. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures *and leads me beside still waters. In this broken world, we and those around us live in a state of distress. and lead us, to where we had not expected to go. Commemorated on November 15. Written by Anne Newman Sunday, 23 December 2018 updated 2022. Prayer is what the world needs combined with the example of our lives which testify to the Light of Christ. She interrupts the Greater Ferias, in order to pay her tribute of honour to Thomas, the Apostle of Christ, whose glorious Martyrdom has consecrated this twenty first day of December and has procured, for the Christian people, a powerful patron that will introduce them to the Divine Babe of Bethlehem. All Christmas preparations, from slaughtering and firewood chopping to ale brewing and baking, should have been finished by December 21. O Thomas! This site adheres to the Catholic Church and all her teachings. Pray to God, that he have mercy on our souls. In Austria, old pagan customs associated with the winter solstice conflated with the celebration of St. Thomass Day. His Patronages are: people in doubt; against doubt architects blind people and against blindness builders construction workers geometricians stone masons and stone cutters surveyors theologians Ceylon East Indies India Indonesia Malaysia Pakistan Singapore Sri Lanka Diocese of Bathery, India Castelfranco di Sopra, Italy Certaldo, Italy Ortona, Italy. Crowds of men pass or meet thee on the road, each one hurrying to his native town, there to be enrolled, as the Edict commands. Celebrating on December 21, the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle (in the 1962 Liturgical Calendar) . Amen. Today Saturday December 21 is the traditional feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, who often gets overlooked due to the crowded liturgical schedule of Ember Week and Christmas. My Lord and my God! he said. As custom each December 21, we share with you a great sermon posted by Sensus Fidelium, on St. Thomas the Apostle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1bBepndSGY. Free eBook: Liturgical Year 2022-2023, Vol. Believe in God, believe also in me. They see thy Mother Mary, and they see nothing in her above the rest of women; or if they are impressed by the majesty and incomparable modesty of this august Queen, it is but a vague feeling of surprise at there being such dignity in one so poor as she is; and they soon forget her again. How many Apostles were there? who didst lead to Christ so many unbelieving nations, hear now the prayers of the faithful, who beseech thee to lead them to that same Jesus, who, in five days, will have shown himself to his Church. Customs associated with St. Thomass Day reflect its proximity to both Christmas and the winter solstice. 2020 by Hymnblog. Thomas answered and said to Him: my Lord and my God. 4 Behold, he who keeps watch over Israel *shall neither slumber nor sleep; 5 The Lord himself watches over you; *the Lord is your shade at your right hand. ET using the following link: Zoom Link for Daily Morning Prayer. Immane satis facinus video coram tuis, Deus Pater, oculis a reprobis perpetratum: qui, dum Filium tuum, praedicatum in lege, contemnunt, in incredulitatis suae voragine remanserunt; dum hi quibus non erat de eo nuntiatum, viderunt eum, et qui non audierunt, intelligentia contemplati sunt. They will call you, The City of the Lord, * The Zion of the Holy One of Israel. as so many sermons. A strong man who wavered for a moment, but then learned one cannot come to terms with evil, and so became a strong churchman, a martyr, and a saintthat was Thomas Becket, archbishop of Canterbury, murdered in his cathedral on December 29 . Antica Chiesa Cattolica Ortodossa e Ordine della Santa Sapienza - chiarimento "Come gli studiosi di storia della Chiesa sanno, molti dei primi seguaci ebrei di nostro Signore Ges Cristo continuarono, dopo la loro conversione, a pregare a Gerusalemme nel tempio e nelle sinagoghe; ma in un primo periodo a molti Gentili fu anche permesso di unirsi alla Chiesa, San Pietro e San Paolo erano i . Amen. Remove your shoes and Thomas the Apostle, who was also named Didymus, was a Galilean. Hindu priests, on the command of the king, using a sword, assassinated him so his emblems are the sword and a ruler, for he was a builder. That we may merit to appear in his divine presence, we need, before all other graces, the light which leads to him. His relics can be found in the Thomas Basilica in Ortona, Italy. (LogOut/ We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. Although the Roman Catholic Church has celebrated the feast of Saint Thomas the Apostle on July 3 since 1969, some Western Christian churches prefer the original date, which is December 21. O Thoma! Whether or not one believes these accounts, they go way back into antiquity: Christian missionaries of later eras found evidence of this tradition when they arrived in India. and his faithfulness endures from age to age. He ascended into heaven,and is seated at the right hand of the Father. Nolite timere: quinta enim die veniet ad vos Dominus noster. Up to the last, he gained for himself the esteem of all men by the holiness of his life and teaching, and by the wonderful miracles he wrought. We extract the following stanzas from her Hymns. Amen. Morning Psalm: 118 | Evening Psalms: 120, 121 21 December was traditionally the feast of St. Thomas the Apostle; his feast is now celebrated on 3 July by the Roman Catholic Church. Change), You are commenting using your Facebook account. I love Thomas! But thou puttest our faith to the test, before showing thyself in all thy brightness. He takes the things we often call badpain, sickness, poverty, stress, uncertainty, and even, and especially, deathand he uses them for our redemption. Because of St. Thomas we know that Jesus not only came to us in the flesh, but Jesus also rose from the dead in his flesh. Saint of the Day for December 29 (December 21, 1118 - December 29, 1170) Saint Thomas Becket's Story. Arise, shine, for your light has come, * and the glory of the Lord has dawned upon you. Nations will stream to your light, * and kings to the brightness of your dawning. Let us pray to him with confidence. splendor of eternal light, and Sun of Justice! 1st November - All Hallows' Day, All Saints Day. Lord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise. 901-525-1056 The Apostle Thomas is often referred to for his doubt but he also offers one of the most profound expressions of faith in his encounter with the risen Christ. Pax et bonum! The following Prayer is from the Matins of the Gothic, or Mozarabic, Breviary. Everliving God, who strengthened your apostle Thomas with sure and certain faith in your Sons resurrection: Grant us so perfectly and without doubt to believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord and our God, that our faith may never be found wanting in your sight; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Today Saturday December 21 is the traditional feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, who often gets overlooked due to the crowded liturgical schedule of Ember Week and Christmas. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. For behold, darkness covers the land; * deep gloom enshrouds the peoples. Also, if a single woman on St. Thomas Day can pick out a young rooster from among a brood of sleeping chicks, she will soon obtain a husband, or see him in her dreams. Not one of all these suspects that thou, O divine Orient! It seems that unmarried girls have many allies with the saints. The Feast of St. Thomas is the only occasion where the . Feast of St Thomas, Apostle of Christ, Martyr, Notre-Dame de Saint-Acheul / Our Lady of Saint Acheul, France, (4th Century) and Memorials of the Saints - 21 December Posted on December 21, 2022 December 20, 2022 by AnaStpaul St. Thomas Aquinas Sterling Silver Oval Medal @ $66.97. St. Thomas is remembered most often for his doubting of Jesus' resurrection. Domine Jesu Christe, qui posuisti in capite Martyris tui Thomae Apostoli coronam de lapide pretioso, fundamento fundatam; ut non confundatur, quia te credidit; coronetur, quia pro te animam posuit: sit ergo intercessionibus ejus in nobis famulis tuis fides vera, qua te etiam coram persecutoribus promptissima devotione confiteamur: quatenus interveniente tanto martyre, coram te et Angelis tuis minime confundamur. Trinity Lutheran Church (Ephesians 4:11-16) "We are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love." Glory be Collect (Prayer) Jan. 17CHIPPEWA FALLS A Cadott man will serve eight months in jail after he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in December 2020. God has promised you through the cross of his Son, Jesus Christ, that no matter what you or your loved ones face today, no matter how great the sufferingeven and especially if it is unto deathhe has power over it. But over you the Lord will rise, * and his glory will appear upon you. Amen. It's a little awkward to ask, but we need your help. Copyright 2023 Trinity Lutheran Church. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Thomas asked questions of our Lord. He followed Christ throughout His ministry and spent many a day sitting at the feet of our Lord, listening and learning. He has given hope, down through the ages, to people who have doubted the resurrection, but want to believe. St. Thomas day, St. Thomas gray, The longest night and shortest day. The custom of Thomasing arose in the 18th century and died in the early 20th century. thou art coming to snatch us from eternal night: blessed forever be thy infinite goodness! Missouri Synod Church in Downtown Memphis, A Message For Parents With Young Children. It was also customary for the head of the family to walk through the house sprinkling holy water, burning incense and praying to protect the rest of the family and servants. qui Christum meruisti cernere; te precibus rogamus altisonis, succurre nobis miseris; ne damnemur cum impiis, in Adventu Judicis. Amen. The feast of St Thomas, mostly a rural festival, marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Euskadi. The King of those parts, a worshipper of idols, was, on the contrary, only the more irritated by all these things. In 1969, the Roman Catholic Church transferred the celebration on July 3 the translation of Saint Thomass relics to Edessa so that it wouldnt interfere from Advent. But the Holy Spirit gives us strength. Quum enim illuminasses filios luminis et diei, horum, in Spiritu, sapiens, idolica evertisti templa, et sublimasti os in charitate Dei, ad laudem et gloriam Ecclesiae, beate intercessor pro animabus nostris. go into his courts with praise; * Federal Tax Identification Number: 81-0596847. In England and Belgium, students raced to school in order to arrive before teachers and lock them out. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. PATRONAGE - Against DOUBT, those in DOUBT, PATRONAGE - BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION WORKERS, Thought for the Day 18 January The Veneration and Imitation of the Saints, Quote/s of the Day 18 January St Peter, One Minute Reflection 18 January Out of all the world, Peter alone was chosen St Leo the Great. In rural England, children, the elderly and the poor used to go door to door asking for a little money to buy Christmas foods so that they could enjoy the holiday. He stirred up, also, in their hearts, the love of Jesus Christ. Saint of the Day for December 21 Today is Monday, January 2, 2023 This is the Saint of the Day list of Saints and Blesseds whose feast day falls on December 21 every year. December 3. Lord, Thou hast proved me: and known me: Thou hast known my sitting down, and my rising up. Thomas is forever known as Doubting Thomas because, when told by the others that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead said Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.. The Greek Church celebrates, with her usual solemnity, the Feast of St. Thomas; but she keeps it on the sixth of October. He has conquered it. (1962), today was the feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, now celebrated July 3. Amen. The Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio created this painting depicting Jesus guiding Thomas to put his finger into the hole created by the spear at the time of His crucifixion. PATRONAGE DOCTORS, / SURGEONS / MIDWIVES. the mystic cup of the Wisdom of Christ, which gives joy to the souls of the faithful. By continuing to use this website you are giving your consent for us to set cookies. He worked there until his martyrdom in Mylapore in 72 AD. After he had received the Holy Ghost, he travelled through many provinces, preaching the Gospel of Christ. Amen. Wheat was cooked and distributed for the poor. This was so that the day would no longer clash with the days of Advent. If you know me, you will know my Father also. Troparion & Kontakion. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Learning Resources - Free printable resources for schools, parishes, and more. In 1969, the Roman Catholic Church transferred the celebration on July 3 - the translation of Saint Thomas's relics to Edessa - so that it wouldn't interfere from Advent. Father Francis X. Weiser tells of some other old customs of this day: In a Christianized version of this custom farmers will walk through the buildings and around the farmyard, accompanied by a son or one of the farm hands. His work apparently was so successful it threatened the establishment in India. That will be his name for the rest of time. rolls and the original mince pies, that had meat, come to mind. What can man do to me? (Ps 118:5-6). There are many . Church Year Feast. 138, 17 To me Thy friends, O God, are made exceedingly honorable: their principality is exceedingly strengthened. The Church has deemed it prudent to give us them in an exceedingly abridged form, which contains only the most reliable facts, gathered from authentic sources; and thus, she excludes all those details which have no historic authority. 5 You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; *you have anointed my head with oil,and my cup is running over. The story of his mission to India where he is patron saint among Christians shows us the scope of his work in the ancient world. The Church in India (Mar Thoma) traces its lineage to Thomas missionary presence there following the resurrecxtion. Yet this saint is not the least by any means, as tradition holds that St. Thomas evangelized not only India, but much of the globe including the western hemisphere. I believe in God, the Father almighty,creator of heaven and earth;I believe in Jesus Christ, Gods only Son, our Lord. Saint Peter Canisius, Priest and Doctor of the Church Blessed Anton Durcovici Saint Anr Tran An Dung Blessed Dominic Spadafora Saint Phr Truong Van Thi Toward the end of His ministry, the Pharisees plotted to kill Jesus (Mark 3:6). his mercy is everlasting; * This custom was referred to as Thomasing. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? Our Morning Offering 18 January O Peter, Who was Named by Christ! Pray, O holy Apostle, for the nations thou didst evangelise, but which have fallen back again into the shades of death. Filte go dt Tara Celebrations - celebrating the 8 fold year with ritual and meditation, 2022 - Cosmic web connects all & everything, 2021 - Ancestors - Global Spiritual Wheel, 2020 - Stepping out of the Shadows into the Light - Tara / home, Stepping out of the Shadows into the Light - Samhain meditation 2020, Site of the first Halloween Bonfire? On the third day he rose again. We need this word of promise every day,  None of the other Apostles expressed such a complete understanding of the true nature of Christsovereign Lord and and one true God. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spiritand born of the Virgin Mary. In some European countries, St. Thomass Day traditions focused on it being the shortest day of the year. ), This text is taken from The Liturgical Year, authored byDom Prosper Gueranger (1841-1875). Ps. Christi passionis imitatus, latere pro ipso perforatus, induisti immortalitatem: illum deprecare misereri animabus nostris. Oh! He finally went to the Indies, and instructed the inhabitants of those countries in the Christian religion. Judge James Isaacson ordered the jail sentence, with the first four months with no Huber work release privileges . St. Abbo St. Agricola St. Attalia . and herb pillows but seriously, onion? They knew what the Pharisees had waiting and that, as followers of Jesus, their own lives were on the line as well. who didst merit to see Christ; we beseech thee, by most earnest supplication, help us miserable sinners, lest we be condemned with the ungodly, at the Coming of the Judge. (LogOut/ begging. It was St Thomas whom we needed; St. Thomas, whose festal patronage would aid us to believe and hope, in that God, Whom we see not and Who comes to us in silence and humility, in order to try our Faith. If they sleep with their heads at the foot of the bead, the dreams will reveal visions of their future husbands. 5th November - Guy Fawkes Day, Bonfire Night or Fireworks Night, 4th Thursday in November - American Thanksgiving, Last weekend in November - Stir up Sunday, 5th / 6th December - Feast of St. Nicholas and Krampus, 8th December - Feast of the Immaculate Conception, 12th December - Our Lady of Guadalupe - Nuestra Seora de Guadalup, 21st December - Feast of St Thomas the Apostle, 26th December - Hunting the Wren and Boxing Day, Menitation - Meditation and Mens Mental Health, Two videos of quotes for April, May and June 2019, End of Summertime - energies of darkness and light, Brat Bhride - blessing the land every St.Brigid's Eve. Judge the living and the dead created with Wix.com, martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle, for the of! Horrid crime is this I see committed in thy presence by the reprobate!! Giving your consent for us to set cookies establishment in India ( Mar ). * Federal Tax Identification Number: 81-0596847 Lord and my rising up, pagan! Thawed, reheated and eaten and blessed herbs from the Liturgical year yet. Month of December my Father also all saints day of his death in 72. * deep gloom enshrouds the peoples your hand and put it into my side originally in... Assigned as to St Thomas, mostly a rural festival, marks the beginning of Nativity... Of December foot be moved * and the original mince pies, that he have mercy on our.! This day have been so fittingly assigned as to St Thomas, Apostle of Christ waiting and that you. Morning, we and those around us live in a state of distress martyrs and Other festivals of faith will... The reprobate Jews the foot of the Apostles could this day have been so fittingly as... Been finished by December 21 had waiting and that, as to St Thomas, all you lands *. 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The wonderful thing about Minimalist Homeschooling is that it is no different in principle whether you are Christian Minimalist Homeschooling, or Secular Minimalist Homeschooling. Since minimalist homeschooling is all about doing what is of most value, religious families can watch their faith thrive in a minimalist homeschool.
First, did you know that minimalist homeschooling NOT about owning the fewest supplies, or using the fewest books? Minimalism is actually more about the value we have in our lives, rather than the possessions.
Minimalist Homeschooling are practicing Christian Minimalist Homeschooling – I wouldn’t expect it in our diverse world. You certainly don’t have to be Christian to be a minimalist homeschooler (just like you don’t have to be Christian to prioritize simple luxuries).
Unfortunately, I am not well-versed enough in other religions to speak on their support for minimalist teachings, but I would love to hear more about it… please comment at the end with your insight if you are practicing another faith! I suspect that other religions also support minimalism, and I personally find the commonalities between faiths fascinating.]
Mindset Hack #6 in the book Minimalist Homeschooling is:
Replace “almost not enough,” with “plenty.”
While this mindset hack is not exclusively Christian, to me, it resembles many Biblical teachings, and in fact, it does have quite a bit of Biblical support. Plus, since we are talking about homeschooling (teaching children), there is quite a bit of Biblical guidance for that aspect, as well. But wait! There’s more… we’re talking about an education, and the Bible says plenty about the value of wisdom, too.
So, settle in, and take a look at the rich scriptural guidance for Christian Minimalist Homeschooling on all three fronts.
There are so many verses, that I imagine that this could be the basis of our family’s Bible Study for a period of time, or inspire my prayers for our homeschool. I made a couple of free printables to assist your own prayerful reflection that are at the end of this post – I hope you’ll download them. I’d love to hear how you use these scriptures in your homeschool – feel free to leave me a comment at the bottom.
If you’re questioning how to apply minimalism to your homeschool so that it will be simple, meaningful, and honor your faith, the book will walk you through the process, step-by-step.
Questions for Self-Reflection:
Christian minimalism, in general, asks whether our belongings direct our focus toward God, or distract us from Him? Do your belongings help you fulfill God’s purpose of your life, or do they interfere?
Similarly, if you are Christian Minimalist Homeschooling, you can ask these specific questions about your school:
Does our education direct our focus toward God or distract us from Him?
Do our materials, resources, activities, lessons… help us fulfill God’s purpose for our lives, or do they interfere?
Wow! Those are two seemingly simple questions that can completely redirect our homeschooling approach, and content, right?
If you are Christian minimalist homeschooling, there are more questions you can ask, too:
Do I find my identity in my education – or in what I am doing or getting – more than my identity as a member of God’s family?
Does our education bring us joy, and do I care for it as a gift from God?
The Bible is clear that wisdom is good, but am I prioritizing wisdom and knowledge at the expense of other important aspects of our Christian faith?
Are we finding more joy and beauty in man-made items than in God’s Creation?
Are we spending our time and energy on God’s calling?
Here are scripture verses that support the principles of Christian minimalist homeschooling that you can use for inspiration and direction:
(All verses are derived from the NIV for consistency. I encourage you to open up your own Bible to reflect on these verses.)
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. (1Timothy 6:6-8)
5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
“Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15)
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21)
33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Luke 12:33-34)
16 Better a little with the fear of the Lord
than great wealth with turmoil. (Proverbs 15:16)
8 Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice. (Proverbs 16:8)
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (Matthew 6:25-27)
“Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.
2 Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare. (Isaiah 55:1-2)
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. (Acts 2:44-45)
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)
4 Do not wear yourself out to get rich;
do not trust your own cleverness. -Proverbs 23:4
7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. -Psalm 20:7
17 Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you. -Deuteronomy 16:17
17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. -1 John 2:17
17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. -1Timothy 6:17-19
35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ -Acts 20:35
24 One person gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. -Proverbs 11:24
16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. -John 15:16
19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:19
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. -Ephesians 5:15-17
On Directing our Children:
38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, -Luke 10:38-41
6 Start children off on the way they should go,
and even when they are old they will not turn from it. -Proverbs 22:6
6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. -Deuteronomy 6:6-7
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. -Ephesians 6:4
13 Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.
14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there. -Matthew 19:13-15
14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. -2 Timothy 3:14-15
13 All your children will be taught by the Lord,
and great will be their peace. -Isaiah 54:13
Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. -James 3:1-5
3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. -3 John 1:3-4
18 Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him.[a] 19 For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him.” -Genesis 18:18-19
8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
9 They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck. -Proverbs 1:8-9
11 Command and teach these things. -1 Timothy 4:11
16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. -Colossians 3:16
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. -John 14:26
19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. -Matthew 5:19
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. -Ephesians 4:29
40 The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher. -Luke 6:40
4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. -James 1:4-6
13 Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,
14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
those who hold her fast will be blessed. -Proverbs 3:13-18
15 The way of fools seems right to them,
but the wise listen to advice. -Proverbs 12:15
The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,
for the ears of the wise seek it out. -Proverbs 18:15
20 Listen to advice and accept discipline,
and at the end you will be counted among the wise. -Proverbs 19:20
15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. -Luke 21:15
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools[a] despise wisdom and instruction. -Proverbs 1:7
16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit[a] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength -Ephesians 1:16-19
3 By wisdom a house is built,
and through understanding it is established;
4 through knowledge its rooms are filled
with rare and beautiful treasures.
5 The wise prevail through great power,
and those who have knowledge muster their strength.
6 Surely you need guidance to wage war,
and victory is won through many advisers.
7 Wisdom is too high for fools;
in the assembly at the gate they must not open their mouths. -Proverbs 24:3-7
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding; -Proverbs 3:5
6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. -Proverbs 2:6
24 but let the one who boasts boast about this:
that they have the understanding to know me,
that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness,
justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight,”
declares the Lord. -Jeremiah 9:24
12 Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of knowledge. -Proverbs 23:12
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. -Proverbs 9:10
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. -James 3:13-18
Christian Minimalist Homeschooling Bible Study Printables
Tell me… Are you Christian Minimalist Homeschooling? Which scripture resonates most with you today? What did I miss? Join in on the comments below!
This post is part of the Minimalist Homeschooling Mindset Series. I want you to have a confident and meaningful homeschool by changing your mindset and approach. The book, Minimalist Homeschooling helps readers identify their purpose and then purge their priorities, schedules, lessons, resources and space accordingly.
If you’d like to be sure that you don’t miss any future posts, sign-up for our weekly newsletter – it’s full of encouragement, insight, and freebies. I’d love to join you on your minimalist homeschooling journey each week.
We also have a group on facebook of minimalist homeschoolers who are making the transformation alongside one another. Won’t you come join us?


Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Over the past few days, I have been reflecting on the differences in my life and ministry as a priest, of being useless and being helpless. First and foremost, any sense of uselessness must be recognized for its source. God does not make anyone useless. Each and every person has a purpose to fulfill; it is part of being made in the image and likeness of God, that our very existence reflects His glory. St. John Paul II gave us such an incredible symbol of the dignity of the human being, in the experience of his own suffering, we looked upon someone who witnessed to the end what it means to glorify God in our living.
Almost three decades ago, I was blessed to work part time with children at Maryhaven. This was before I was a priest, in fact, it was that part of my life which was far from priestly, where friends were surprised that I would end my Saturday overnight shift by going to Mass. At the place, there was a little boy, I’ll call him John, who was not high functioning, like many of the kids. There was one thing that I will remember about him, and that was his habit of saying “I love you”. It was earnest in its utterance and came from a child who could do little for himself. He was far from useless. John gave a witness to the world, because his very existence, his brief life on earth was a testimony to the glory of God. So let’s set aside the idea of any human being being useless, as that does not come from God, but somewhere else.
These past few weeks have been a challenge to most of us. Even those who have found activities to keep themselves, and loved ones, busy, those who are on the front lines in helping to get us through the Covid19 pandemic, and other essential workers, still experience a feeling of helplessness. What do we do to keep the kids occupied. How do we make sure the rent or mortgage is paid. How do I protect my parents. Since we have had an unparalleled opportunity to reflect, there are probably many more questions running through our minds, and they are real and legitimate questions.
Recently, the governor of New York made a statement on the rate of new infections leveling off. He said that the decrease was the result of social distancing and not an act of God. Personally, I’m grateful that in America we have a Constitutional Amendment that prevents politicians from dictating what we believe. My own opinion is that the prayers of so many people, throughout the world, have had a definite impact, and that God is answering our prayers. However, I can see how Gov. Cuomo’s statement is both a reminder to be vigilant and practice precautions, as well as a response born from his own sense of helplessness in the face of this global threat to life and health. Someone who worries about the normal operations of the State, in abnormal times, while concern for his own brother’s fight with the virus can feel helpless.
My own sense of helplessness is both a blessing and a curse. Looking at it as a curse or hinderance is inevitable, but not a place where I want to remain. I can obviously see the limitations that have been placed on my ministry as a priest, first and foremost my ability to celebrate the Sacraments for the people. Because other pastors and priests have been going online, to broadcast their Masses live, I bought a video camera for the same purpose, and set up a YouTube account just for the parish, with plans to livestream the Palm Sunday Mass. Unfortunately, I was not able to get the livestream to work, whether because of the internet, the equipment, or just my own lack of technological skills, but after watching the Chrism Mass on the Catholic Faith Network, live from the Cathedral, I realized it might have been a good thing I didn’t go online. My Palm Sunday Mass was just myself, alone, no music, no lectors, no Passion Sunday décor of Palms to make it more engaging, because I have been here alone. For the sake of the health of the people of God in this parish, and the workers, and ministers, whether liturgical, musical or others, we have had to stay apart. Because of this, I feel helpless.
Because of my inability to be around other people, I feel helpless. Because of my inability to do the things I want to do for the parish and the wider community, I feel helpless. Because of the economic hardships that people are going through, that I cannot help them with, because the parish itself will be going through more tough economic times, I feel helpless. But that helplessness is not something that I can focus on, or it will overcome me.
There is on the other hand, a helplessness which I experience that I have to let overcome me.
Since becoming pastor three years ago, even before that as a priest in other parishes, people have commented on the wonderful things I have done, whether it is the various liturgical, social or faith formation activities, people have often complimented me. My normal responses are “It’s not me, it’s Him” or “I have been blessed with many talented and faithful people.” While there are times my ego is inside singing, “Yes, I did it! Me, Me, Me, Me, MEEEEE!”, I do my best to bring that part to the altar and ask Christ to change it, to alter it. It has also been pointed out to me that I need to practice taking a compliment, which I admit is difficult. But the overwhelming majority of the time, the response is born out of a genuine realization that God is working through me, and not just through my ability, but through my inability.
On my continuous journey of conversion, I become aware with greater depth, the need to surrender myself more completely to God. This time of Covid-19 is part of that continuous journey of conversion, as it allows me the opportunity to recognize my own helplessness, and place my trust in God, maybe to get back to a place of trust that I skipped over because I needed something done right away and couldn’t wait for God. Now the reality of that presents itself as God tells me, “You, Henry! Sit there, this one isn’t your’s it’s Mine.”
We, as human beings, don’t like being helpless, especially in these modern times when people demand they be allowed to shape their own reality, decisions that they force others to recognize as reality even when it contradicts the personal reality of others, or Reality itself. It’s one of the reasons so many people have fallen away from God, from Religion, partially because they refuse to be limited or directed, but mostly because they do not want to feel the helplessness of not being in charge of their own lives. However, the beauty of this feeling of helplessness in the presence of the Almighty, this commitment to surrender one’s self to God, is the freedom from recognizing that there are things beyond what we are capable of dealing with, things that we can bring to Him, and leave with Him.
There are times I am envious of my friends who are in twelve step programs, because when they “finish” the steps, they go back to the beginning and begin them again, especially the first three: Step 1 – We admitted we were powerless over our addiction– that our lives had become unmanageable. Step 2 – Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. Step 3 – Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. Unfortunately, it may have taken a pandemic, to allow us to recognize our helplessness and our addictions to self; fortunately, God continues to come to us, and make Himself known in our weakness.
Pax, Fr. Henry


The world has a very different idea about dating – so much so that it’s properly known in the Catholic sense by an entirely different word – courtship. So what is Catholic courtship, and how does it differ from the “normal” idea of dating? This is an episode that every young man or woman should review before they begin any sort of dating — or courtship.
In this first of two episodes on Confirmation, we’ll first take a step back and look at the Institution of the Sacrament, its history, and why its practiced differently in the Eastern Churches versus the Latin Church. We’ll also look briefly at the Gifts of the Holy Ghost, the Matter and Form of Confirmation, and why the Church talks about the Perfection of Catholic Virtues in this Sacrament more than the others.
This past winter, we spoke with Father Marko Tilosanec, a Croatian priest who has a fascinating story. He was ordained a priest in the standard diocesan structure in Croatia – even before his ordination, he began to seek out more information about tradition. After his ordination, he experienced difficulties while attempting to follow his conscience in learning and celebrating the Latin Mass.
This prompted him to visit the society of saint Pius X seminary in Zaitzkofen, Germany… and eventually, to become a priest within the SSPX.
This is the story of one priest’s journey to tradition. But it’s also the story of attempting to bring tradition back to an entire country that was left behind – first by the Communists, then by the Modernists.
This is the story of Father Marko Tilosanec
To Support Father’s Work: IBAN: HR 14239 000 111 011 43716 SWIFT (BIC): HPBZHR2X
See all our interviews here: https://sspxpodcast.com/category/interview/
Subscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/SSPXNewsEnglish?sub_confirmation=1
View on YouTube:
Fr. Alphonsus, Redemptorist Priest, explains the tradition / practice of saying three Hail Marys every day, and what the purpose is:
Father Paul Robinson will join us to look at each aspect of the New Mass, and how it constitutes a gravely insufficient way of adoring the Holy Trinity. We’ll be using clips from a couple Novus Ordo Masses to illustrate each section that Father is discussing – and to be as fair as possible, we will mainly be looking at a fairly reverent, common Novus Ordo Mass. It would be easy to find a New Mass with dancers, bands and light shows – but we’re trying to illustrate that at its core, the prayers and rubrics of the priest are a striking departure from Catholic theology.
Fr. Alphonsus, Redemptorist Priest, gives us insights into the importance of the Holy Rosary, and why it should be said by Catholics Daily!
Father Paul Robinson will join us to explain in detail the Traditional Latin Mass. We’ll look at the themes of the Mass – what the Traditional Mass is emphasizing over and over, then go, step by step, through the Mass, with visuals and explanations of the prayers, the symbolism, and the ceremonies performed by the priests each day, in nearly every country of the world.


Houses of worship of all sizes rely on technology to connect with their audience and further enhance religious ceremonies. With a plethora of solutions on the market, finding what’s best for the needs of the community may not always be a simple task. NEC Display Solutions’ headquarters includes a space to show places of worship new ways to engage and inspire their congregations with the latest display technologies.
Four years ago, Bayside Church was inspired to provide an unparalleled Christmas light show to the community. The church set up a multi-zone, drive-thru Christmas light display that has attracted massive crowds every year since it opened. Read more about this traffic stopping case study.
How does a newly formed church infuse technology into services when everything must be portable in nature? See how a new church incorporated cutting edge technology into services and easily maintained the portability and modularity of their space.
St. Joseph Catholic Church enhanced their congregation’s worship experience with NEC digital projectors.


The dictionary defines connecting as “to bring together or into contact so that a real link is established.” In scripture, Jesus states that “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:5 (NIV).
In this passage, Jesus speaks on how we must connect or “link” ourselves to Him. He creates a visual for the disciples by likening himself to the vine, which is the source, and using the branches to represent us. We understand that when a branch is separated from the vine, it cannot survive because it is separated from its primary source of nourishment.
The same principle is true in our personal and professional lives. In order for us to be productive on a job, with family, and in obtaining the desires of our heart, we must be connected to our source, Jesus. When we are disconnected from our power source, we can become drained and less productive, and therefore, unable accomplish our goals.
The beauty, however, is knowing that building a relationship with God is never far away. When we choose to connect, and fully abide in Christ as the scripture says, there is no struggle that we can’t handle and conquer and producing fruit will come easy. If you ever find yourself disconnected, incorporating prayer, daily reading of God’s Word, and connecting with like-minded individuals can help reconnect you to your Power source.
I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to be more connected with You. Thank you for being my charging source when I feel overwhelmed and depleted. I know that I can remain in You to provide my every need regardless of what I may be going through at any given time. Please lead the way. Thank you for your unconditional love, Your grace and Your mercy. Continue to draw me closer to You so that I may abide fully in You.
In Jesus' name I pray, Amen


The past week has been extremely difficult as my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent surgery.
And yet, since the trouble first came, spiritual songs and helpful scriptures kept coming to my mind. I’d remember songs I sang in church growing up. Promises from God’s Word would pop in my mind. These thoughts really helped me combat negative thoughts and fear.
As I was walking into the hospital the other day, humming the song, “I am the Lord Your Healer,” a realization dawned on me.
I have been making investments. For so many years, I’ve spent a lot of quality time with God. I’ve prayed a lot. I’ve read the Bible. I’ve gone to church. I’ve went on mission trips. I’ve listened to worship music. I’ve sang it in my car. I’ve allowed the Lord to be a close friend.
And now, when I am in a tough time, all those investments are paying me back. With faith. With joy. With hope. With strength. With sleep. With smiles. With a song to get me through the day.
I am so glad I invested. I’m glad I persevered. And, I am so glad God invested in me. Because He loved me first; I just chose to run to Him.
“I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.” Psalm 119:32


What is your job as a Christian? If God gave you a job description for the Christian life, what would he put on it?
If you need to get in touch with us, here are some ways for you to reach us.
70 William Street SouthLindsay, ON K9V 3A8
phone: +1 (705) 324-5729
Bethel Church is a community of faith, hope and love in beautiful Lindsay, Ontario.
Join us every Sunday at 10:00am for our weekly worship service.


I'm not really a very religious person. I believe in an almighty-God presiding over all things in the Universe, but I don't believe he can be explained by man as believed of the many religious texts. I don't believe in an afterlife -- or the devil, angels, demons, and any other supernatural deities -- but in an all-powerful God, creator of time, space, and all matter and present in all things, who can be explained within models of the creation and life-span of our Universe. But I definitely believe God just spoke to me in a very subtle way. I was chilling and thinking about life while waiting for the re-run of the Walking Dead, and I all of a sudden felt the urge to write myself a letter. As I was writing the letter, I felt as if someone else was transcribing it and I was only the secretary, even as far as referring to myself in the third person. As I wrote it, I could tell instantly that they were wise words of advice pertaining to my life at the moment. After writing it, the idea hit me like a rock that this was God giving me words of wisdom. When I pray, I always try and ask God for wisdom, and to show me the direction to take when a decision comes to my life. I feel that he answered my prayer and showed me some of the wisdom I asked for. When the idea hit me, I instantly had to pray and thank God for the many things I've been blessed with and for the wisdom to live my life at its best!


In 1804, Thomas Jefferson took a straight-edge razor to his copies of the New Testament and cut out everything that suggested a divine nature for Jesus. And then he praised that Jesus to the heavens. Fast forward to the 1970s. Jesus cut a huge swath on Broadway in the smash hits “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Godspell.” In 2003, Jesus is making more movie headlines with Mel Gibson’s “The Passion.” Christian rock is hot. The scripture’s Son of God is front and center in the Bush White House.
Americans, both Christians and not, have made and remade their understanding of Jesus over centuries, says religious scholar Stephen Prothero . In a new book, Prothero contends that Jesus is so much a part of the American culture and experience that “one way you figure out your place in America is figuring out what you think about Jesus. Tonight, On Point: Tracing the Evolution of the “American Jesus.”
Stephen Prothero, chairman of the Department of Religion at Boston University, author of the new book “American Jesus: How the Son of God Became a National Icon”


Pastor Charles and Betty Mukasa always wanted to help orphaned and destitute children. The church fully supported their desire, but timing was critical. They did not know how or when this would happen. The desire became a burden to Charles and Betty, but they could not allow themselves to get involved without the proper resources to provide and support the children. They dreamt of the day when they would everything needed to take care of the kids. That day never arrived.
Pastor Charles was headed to another country for ministry and fellowship with friends. Before he left, one of the local Ugandan Pastors came to visit him. This Pastor, who had an orphanage, requested that Pastor Charles take a video with him to solicit support for the orphanage. Charles hesitated, but finally agreed to discuss the matter with the men who had invited him to their country.
The men Charles met with viewed the video and declared they would not support the orphanage unless Charles was involved. They wanted the orphanage switched to become Charles' responsibility. Charles refused to steal his friend's orphanage. The group then convinced Charles to start his own orphanage with their full commitment of financial sponsorship and support. They immediately gave him money for beds and clothes.
Upon returning to Uganda, Pastor Charles begin the daunting task of starting the orphanage. During the initial screening, 100 kids with their guardians turned up. Through careful screening, they accepted 54 kids. The kids were divided into two groups since Charles and Betty knew they could not provide food and sleeping quarters for all of the kids. Some of the kids would live with Charles and Betty and the others would live with their guardians. After getting everything established, Charles notified the sponsors of their progress and the number of kids for whom they were now providing care.
The same group that pushed Charles to start the orphanage then backed out suggesting he had moved too fast and accepted too many kids. This was heart breaking news for Charles and Betty. In their faith, they turned to God and He reassured them this was the right time and that He was going to provide for them according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus. Charles and Betty gave up their home and moved into the church with the kids so that the money they used for their personal housing could be used for the care and support of the kids. They also sold part of the church land and their car. Though it was hard, they persevered.
Having met Belinda Williams and Juanita Cox with Daughters of Virtue Ministries back in 2000, Charles contacted Belinda for advice and counsel. They decided to partner DOV with the orphanage for the kids care and support. It is a blooming and beautiful partnership and all of Uganda is blessed by the love and care being shown to these kids.
Pastor Charles & Betty Mukasa
3“Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.


Which Day Was Jesus Crucified?
I am interested in the exact day of the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus. Matt 27:57 describes when Joseph of Arimathea came to take the body of Jesus for burial (Thursday evening). Verse 62 states “The next day (Saturday) which follows the day of preparation”(Friday) which indicates it was Saturday, when the chief priests gathered together to see Pilate, they said “Sir, we remember while Jesus was still alive, how that deceiver said ‘After three days I will rise’. Command that the grave be made secure until the third day’.” Matt 28:1 says, “Now after the Sabbath, as the first day of the week began to dawn” which means it was Sunday morning when Jesus was raised from the dead. As the gospel of Matthew shows that Jesus was crucified the day which was before the day of preparation which was immediately before the Sabbath day, making Thursday, which we should consider as the burial night/evening.
On the Saturday the Pharisees and chief priests gathered together to Pilate to ask for security of the tomb. The second day was the Sabbath day which was Saturday. So the third day commenced at sunrise on the Sunday. If we count down, we see that, as Jesus prophesied, he would stay in the tomb three days and three nights and then be alive again, and this happened and is true.
The Jewish day commenced at sundown, and was regarded as the night till sunrise. From sunrise to sunset was called day. So Jesus was in the tomb Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights/evenings and in the grave Friday, Saturday and first thing Sunday morning, making three days and three nights in the grave.
Bro Isaac Kapa (Tongaren, Kenya)


Citrus County Genealogical Society
The Citrus County Genealogical Society will meet September 14 at the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, 3474 W. Southern St., Lecanto at 10:00 a.m. and by Zoom. The webinar will be given by Paula Stuart-Warren, CG, FMGS, FUGA ,"Lord Preserve Us! Church Records For Family History Research
." Guests are welcome. Contact Mary Ann Machonkin at firstname.lastname@example.org
to get a link.


Russell Moore interviews John Perkins at the 2015 ERLC Leadership Summit on “The Gospel and Racial Reconciliation” on the Civil Rights Movement after 50 Years.
Dr. John Perkins walks us down memory lane where he experienced segregation and crimes of hate at a young age. He shares a POWERFUL story about the significance of reconciliation and healing through Jesus Christ.
Rhema Christian Center – Oct 9, 2016
Bob Burney’s Radio Interview of John Perkins – Sep 2016
Let Justice Roll On: The Life & Legacy of John M. Perkins
A discussion on Justice
What is Justice?
Dr. John Perkins on the gospel, community, and the neighborhood
Passion For Justice: Dr. John Perkins