She was born on March 21, 1474 and joined the Third order of St. Francis. She started her religious carrier by giving regular religious instructions to small girls. A miracle has happened in her own life. When she was on religious tour of the Holy Land with others, she became suddenly blind, when they were near Crete. When others intended to return home due to this unfortunate incident, Angels compelled them to proceed further with her. She visited all holy places as scheduled with others with the same enthusiasm of a person with eye sight. When returning she got her eye sight again when praying before a crucifix, at the same place where she originally lost her eye sight.
She started the foundation of the "Company of St.Ursula" (venerated as a leader of women) with twelve virgins, on November 25, 1535, to impart Christian education to future wives and mothers, to lead a good life. Even though the members of the group have to follow the rules of virginity, poverty and obedience, they can live in their homes and take no formal vows. St.Angela was elected its Superior on March 18, 1537.
She died on January 27, 1540.
She was beatified by pope Clement-XIII on April 30, 1768
and canonized by Pope Pius-VII on May 24, 1807.
Monday, January 27, 2014
What does Sacred Scipture say about the Sacrament of Confirmation?
In the Old testament, the People of God expected the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Messiah. Jesus lived his life in a special Spirit of love and of perfect unity with his Father in heaven.
This Spirit of Jesus was the "Holy Spirit" for whom the people of Israel longed;
- this was the same Spirit whom Jesus promised to his disciples,
- the same Spirit who descended upon the disciples fifty days after Easter, on the feast of Pentecost. - and it is again this same Holy Spirit of Jesus who descends upon everyone who receives the Sacrament of Confirmation.
In the Acts of Apostles, which were written a few decades after the death of Jesus, we see Peter and John traveling about to confirm new Christians by imposing hands on those who previously "had only been baptized in the name of Lord Jesus", so that their hearts might be filled with the Holy Spirit.
"From that time on the apostles, in the fulfillment of Christ's will, imparted to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands the gift of the Spirit that completes the grace of Baptism. For this reason in the Letter to the Hebrews the doctrine concerning Baptism and the laying on of hands is listed among the first elements of Christian instruction. The imposition of hands is rightly recognized by the Catholic tradition as the origin of the sacrament of Confirmation, which in a certain way perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the church" (Pope Paul VI).
This Spirit of Jesus was the "Holy Spirit" for whom the people of Israel longed;
- this was the same Spirit whom Jesus promised to his disciples,
- the same Spirit who descended upon the disciples fifty days after Easter, on the feast of Pentecost. - and it is again this same Holy Spirit of Jesus who descends upon everyone who receives the Sacrament of Confirmation.
In the Acts of Apostles, which were written a few decades after the death of Jesus, we see Peter and John traveling about to confirm new Christians by imposing hands on those who previously "had only been baptized in the name of Lord Jesus", so that their hearts might be filled with the Holy Spirit.
"From that time on the apostles, in the fulfillment of Christ's will, imparted to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands the gift of the Spirit that completes the grace of Baptism. For this reason in the Letter to the Hebrews the doctrine concerning Baptism and the laying on of hands is listed among the first elements of Christian instruction. The imposition of hands is rightly recognized by the Catholic tradition as the origin of the sacrament of Confirmation, which in a certain way perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the church" (Pope Paul VI).
St. Francis de Sales, 24th January
This saint was born in the noble Sales family of the Duchy of Savoy, on August 21,1567 in France and studied law in Padua. His father was Francoise de Sales, Lord of Boisy and mother Francoise de Sionnz. He was ordained as a priest in the Diocese of Geneva on December 8, 1602, where Calvinist sect of Christians were having very strong presence. Francis took very sincere efforts for converting Calvinist Christians to Catholicism.
He became the Bishop of Geneva at the age of 35 years. He often say that perfection in devotion can be preserved even in the family life, as in desert life. He started to write sermons and copied them by his hand and slipped them through doors of the houses that did not open for him. This is considered as the first use of religious tracts to communicate with people. He collaborated with St.Jane Francis De Chantal in founding the Congregation of Visitation, an Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary to observe and practice the virtues of humility, piety and mutual charity, in the visit of Holy Mary to Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.
He was made an official associate of the Capuchin Order, when he was Bishop. He died on December 28, 1622. He was beatified on January 8, 1661, by Pope Alexander-VII and canonized by the same Pope after four years on April 8, 1665. He is remembered as a patron of journalists because of the tracts he wrote.
He became the Bishop of Geneva at the age of 35 years. He often say that perfection in devotion can be preserved even in the family life, as in desert life. He started to write sermons and copied them by his hand and slipped them through doors of the houses that did not open for him. This is considered as the first use of religious tracts to communicate with people. He collaborated with St.Jane Francis De Chantal in founding the Congregation of Visitation, an Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary to observe and practice the virtues of humility, piety and mutual charity, in the visit of Holy Mary to Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.
He was made an official associate of the Capuchin Order, when he was Bishop. He died on December 28, 1622. He was beatified on January 8, 1661, by Pope Alexander-VII and canonized by the same Pope after four years on April 8, 1665. He is remembered as a patron of journalists because of the tracts he wrote.
Blessed Mother Marianne Cope, 23rd January
She was born on January 23, 1838 to father Peter Koob and mother Barbara Witzenbatcher, in a place that is now in Germany but the family later migrated to New York. Her baptismal name was Maria Anna Barbara Koob. When her father became invalid suddenly, she went to factory work to support the family, since she was the elder child in the family.
She became member of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Syracuse, New York. She was helping lepers for many years on the island of Hawaii, even though she was having direct touch with lepers for a long time, she was not afflicted by that disease. She died on August 9, 1918. In the year 1993, one Katherine Dehlia Mohoney was cured from multiple organ failure after praying to Blessed Mother Marianne Cope.
She was beatified on May 14,2005 by Pope Benedict-XVI and announced officially on February 18,2012 that Marianne will be canonized on October 21,2012. She is a patron of lepers.
She became member of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Syracuse, New York. She was helping lepers for many years on the island of Hawaii, even though she was having direct touch with lepers for a long time, she was not afflicted by that disease. She died on August 9, 1918. In the year 1993, one Katherine Dehlia Mohoney was cured from multiple organ failure after praying to Blessed Mother Marianne Cope.
She was beatified on May 14,2005 by Pope Benedict-XVI and announced officially on February 18,2012 that Marianne will be canonized on October 21,2012. She is a patron of lepers.
St. Vincent, 22nd January
He was ordained as a deacon in Spain by his friend Valerius of Saragossa. The Roman Emperors published their edits against Christian clergy in the year 303 and against the Christian lay people in the year 304. During this time Vincent and his Bishop were arrested and tortured to hand over sacred scriptures and also to give up the faith. But they refused and Vincent was tortured on a gridiron. But the tortures could not change the faith of Vincent. The emperor was so irritated that he ordered to beat the guards who were in charge of Vincent.
Vincent was then detained in a filthy poisonous cell and there he changed the mind of the jailor of the prison and converted him to Christianity. Then the guards gave some rest to the torture of Vincent. During this time some friends visited Vincent and placed him on a comfortable bed. The life of Vincent that refused to leave from him due to torture, left him when he was comfortably placed on a bed and he died peacefully.
The Governor Dacian asked the guards to throw the body to be devoured by vultures but a bird raven guarded the body of St. Vincent. Then his body was thrown into the sea but it came to the shore and was buried by a pious widow. A shrine was constructed over his grave, which is said to have been guarded by ravens (birds).
Vincent was then detained in a filthy poisonous cell and there he changed the mind of the jailor of the prison and converted him to Christianity. Then the guards gave some rest to the torture of Vincent. During this time some friends visited Vincent and placed him on a comfortable bed. The life of Vincent that refused to leave from him due to torture, left him when he was comfortably placed on a bed and he died peacefully.
The Governor Dacian asked the guards to throw the body to be devoured by vultures but a bird raven guarded the body of St. Vincent. Then his body was thrown into the sea but it came to the shore and was buried by a pious widow. A shrine was constructed over his grave, which is said to have been guarded by ravens (birds).
St. Agnes, 21st January
St. Agnes was a very beautiful young Christian girl of 13 years old and was born in the year A.D.291.
Due to her beauty, many young persons wanted to marry her but she refused to marry anyone. One person named Procop son of the Perfect of the area, wanted to marry her but she refused to marry that person also. The son of Perfect informed the authorities that Agnes was in fact a Christian. She was then arrested and detained in a house of prostitution.
She was sentenced to death by the Perfect Sempronius and she was dragged naked along a street. But due to her prayer, her hair grew suddenly and covered her entire body miraculously. When the authorities tied Agnes to a stake to burn her, the wood did not burn and the flames went away from her. Legend also says that one person who looked Agnes with lust, lost his eye sight but his eye sight was restored miraculously by the prayer of Agnes.
Another true story about her life is that another son of the Perfect died suddenly when he attempted to rape her. But he was also revived miraculously after the prayer of Agnes. Then a soldier beheaded her by his sword and she died on January 21, 304.
It is also said that a basilica was constructed in honor of St. Agnes by the daughter of Emperor Constantine.
She is considered as the patron saint of chastity, gardener, girls, engaged couples, rape victims and virgins.
Due to her beauty, many young persons wanted to marry her but she refused to marry anyone. One person named Procop son of the Perfect of the area, wanted to marry her but she refused to marry that person also. The son of Perfect informed the authorities that Agnes was in fact a Christian. She was then arrested and detained in a house of prostitution.
She was sentenced to death by the Perfect Sempronius and she was dragged naked along a street. But due to her prayer, her hair grew suddenly and covered her entire body miraculously. When the authorities tied Agnes to a stake to burn her, the wood did not burn and the flames went away from her. Legend also says that one person who looked Agnes with lust, lost his eye sight but his eye sight was restored miraculously by the prayer of Agnes.
Another true story about her life is that another son of the Perfect died suddenly when he attempted to rape her. But he was also revived miraculously after the prayer of Agnes. Then a soldier beheaded her by his sword and she died on January 21, 304.
It is also said that a basilica was constructed in honor of St. Agnes by the daughter of Emperor Constantine.
She is considered as the patron saint of chastity, gardener, girls, engaged couples, rape victims and virgins.
Monday, January 20, 2014
What happens in Confirmation?
In Confirmation the soul of a baptized Christian is imprinted with a permanent seal that can be received only once and marks this individual forever as a Christian. The gift of the Holy Spirit is the strength from above in which this individual puts the grace of his Baptism into practice through his life and acts as a "witness" for Christ.
To be confirmed means to make a "covenant" with God.
The confirmand says:
"Yes, I believe in you, my God; give me your Holy Spirit, so that I might belong entirely to you and never be separated from you and may witness to you throughout my whole life, body and soul, in my words and deeds, on good days and bad."
And God says:
"Yes, I believe in you, too, my child- and I will give you my Spirit, my very self. I will belong entirely to you. I will never separate myself from you, in this life or eternally in the next. I will be in your body and your soul, in your words and deeds. Even if you forget me, I will still be there - on good days and bad".
Candidates for Confirmation, as for Baptism, fittingly seek the spiritual help of a sponsor. To emphasize the unity of the two sacraments, it is appropriate that this be one of the baptismal godparents.
To be confirmed means to make a "covenant" with God.
The confirmand says:
"Yes, I believe in you, my God; give me your Holy Spirit, so that I might belong entirely to you and never be separated from you and may witness to you throughout my whole life, body and soul, in my words and deeds, on good days and bad."
And God says:
"Yes, I believe in you, too, my child- and I will give you my Spirit, my very self. I will belong entirely to you. I will never separate myself from you, in this life or eternally in the next. I will be in your body and your soul, in your words and deeds. Even if you forget me, I will still be there - on good days and bad".
Candidates for Confirmation, as for Baptism, fittingly seek the spiritual help of a sponsor. To emphasize the unity of the two sacraments, it is appropriate that this be one of the baptismal godparents.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Apostles' Creed Part 12 - I Believe in Life Everlasting
The everlasting life is the perfect and eternal communion of love with God in paradise. Concerning life after death, we believe the following:
Death: it is the separation of the soul from the body.
Judgment: the particular judgment takes place immediately after our death.
According to the verdict, the souls will enter Paradise or Hell; whose who still have some sins to be expiated go to Purgatory. The final judgment will take place at the end of the world.
Purgatory: it is the place where we are purified from our sins before entering into Paradise, as stated in 2 Maccabees 12:45.
Hell: it is the state of self-separation from the communion with God. The pains of hell, which we call "fires of hell," consist in the eternal separation from God.
Paradise: it is the state of perfect communion of love with God.
Death: it is the separation of the soul from the body.
Judgment: the particular judgment takes place immediately after our death.
According to the verdict, the souls will enter Paradise or Hell; whose who still have some sins to be expiated go to Purgatory. The final judgment will take place at the end of the world.
Purgatory: it is the place where we are purified from our sins before entering into Paradise, as stated in 2 Maccabees 12:45.
Hell: it is the state of self-separation from the communion with God. The pains of hell, which we call "fires of hell," consist in the eternal separation from God.
Paradise: it is the state of perfect communion of love with God.
Apostles' Creed Part11 - I Believe in the Resurrection of the Body
At the end of the world, our mortal body will resurrected, transformed into a glorious body, and united again with its soul. When we die, our body is buried, while our soul passes immediately through the particular judgment.
Then, it goes straight to Hell, Purgatory, or Paradise. At the end of the world, our mortal body will rise and rejoin our soul. Then body and soul will pass through the final judgment, and proceed to Paradise, or Hell, for all eternity.
The resurrection is the act by which God gives eternal life to our mortal bodies, making them glorious bodies, and uniting them again with our soul. Jesus Christ was the first who rose from the dead.
As Scripture says: "Christ has been raised from the dead, the first-fruit of all who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20).
Then, it goes straight to Hell, Purgatory, or Paradise. At the end of the world, our mortal body will rise and rejoin our soul. Then body and soul will pass through the final judgment, and proceed to Paradise, or Hell, for all eternity.
The resurrection is the act by which God gives eternal life to our mortal bodies, making them glorious bodies, and uniting them again with our soul. Jesus Christ was the first who rose from the dead.
As Scripture says: "Christ has been raised from the dead, the first-fruit of all who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20).
Apostles' Creed Part 10 - I Believe in the Forgiveness of Sins
All of us are sinners, and we deserve eternal death. However God, in his great mercy, sent his only Son to save us from our sins. As the Gospel says: "His name is Jesus, because he is the one who is to save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).
Jesus Christ entrusted to the Apostles and their successors the authority to forgive sins, when he said: "As the Father sent me, so I am sending you. Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; for those whose sins you retain, they are retained" (John 20:21-23).
The Church forgives sins through the sacraments of Baptism and Penance:
Baptism removes the original sin;
Penance removes all actual sins.
Since the Lord forgives all our sins, we must also forgive whole-heartedly our brothers and sisters. As we pray in the Our Father: "Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us" (Matthew 6:12).
Jesus Christ entrusted to the Apostles and their successors the authority to forgive sins, when he said: "As the Father sent me, so I am sending you. Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; for those whose sins you retain, they are retained" (John 20:21-23).
The Church forgives sins through the sacraments of Baptism and Penance:
Baptism removes the original sin;
Penance removes all actual sins.
Since the Lord forgives all our sins, we must also forgive whole-heartedly our brothers and sisters. As we pray in the Our Father: "Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us" (Matthew 6:12).
Apostles' Creed part 9 - I believe in the Holy Catholic Church, the Communion of Saints
The Church is the assembly of those who believe in Jesus, who are baptized, and who are in communion with the Pope. The Church has four characteristics, namely:
One:
There is only one true Church, as Jesus said to Peter: "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church" (Matthew 16:18).
Holy:
The Church is holy because she is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Catholic:
The Church is Catholic because she is universal, meaning is present in all nations.
Apostolic:
The Church is apostolic because she is founded on the Apostles.
The Church is also called Roman because St.Peter died and was buried in Rome, and because Rome is the residence of the Pope.
The Communion of saints is the community of all Christians who are in the grace of God, either on Earth, Purgatory, or Paradise.
One:
There is only one true Church, as Jesus said to Peter: "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church" (Matthew 16:18).
Holy:
The Church is holy because she is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Catholic:
The Church is Catholic because she is universal, meaning is present in all nations.
Apostolic:
The Church is apostolic because she is founded on the Apostles.
The Church is also called Roman because St.Peter died and was buried in Rome, and because Rome is the residence of the Pope.
The Communion of saints is the community of all Christians who are in the grace of God, either on Earth, Purgatory, or Paradise.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Apostles' Creed Part 8 - I believe in the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Blessed Trinity. It was revealed by Jesus himself, who said: "Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
The Holy Spirit:
* spoke through the Prophets
* inspired the holy writers of the Bible
* conceived Jesus in the womb of the Virgin Mary
* descended upon him at the Baptism in the Jordan like a dove.
Finally, the Holy Spirit descended upon the Virgin Mary and the apostles on Pentecost Day like tongues of fire: "These separated and came to rest on the head of each of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:4).
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are seven:
1) Wisdom
2) Understanding
3) Council
4) Strength
5) Knowledge
6) piety
7) Fear of the Lord
The Holy Spirit:
* spoke through the Prophets
* inspired the holy writers of the Bible
* conceived Jesus in the womb of the Virgin Mary
* descended upon him at the Baptism in the Jordan like a dove.
Finally, the Holy Spirit descended upon the Virgin Mary and the apostles on Pentecost Day like tongues of fire: "These separated and came to rest on the head of each of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:4).
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit are seven:
1) Wisdom
2) Understanding
3) Council
4) Strength
5) Knowledge
6) piety
7) Fear of the Lord
Apostles' Creed Part 7 - He will come to Judge the Living and the Dead.
At the end of the world, Jesus Christ will come to judge the living and the dead. The living are those who will be still alive at the coming of Jesus; the dead are those who died before the judgment day. The bodies will rise from the tombs, and will rejoin their souls.
Jesus will judge all men according to their deeds. The Judgment will revolve around the six eschatoligical questions, namely:
1) Did you feed the hungry?
2) Did you give water to the thirsty?
3) Did you welcome the strangers?
40 Did you clothe the naked?
5) Did you care for the sick?
6) Did you visit the prisoners?
Then the just will go to their eternal reward in Paradise, and the evil ones to eternal damnation in Hell (Matthew 25:31-46). The Judgment will not concern our faith, nationality, or state in life, but about the love we had for our neighbours.
Jesus will judge all men according to their deeds. The Judgment will revolve around the six eschatoligical questions, namely:
1) Did you feed the hungry?
2) Did you give water to the thirsty?
3) Did you welcome the strangers?
40 Did you clothe the naked?
5) Did you care for the sick?
6) Did you visit the prisoners?
Then the just will go to their eternal reward in Paradise, and the evil ones to eternal damnation in Hell (Matthew 25:31-46). The Judgment will not concern our faith, nationality, or state in life, but about the love we had for our neighbours.
Apostles' Creed Part 6 - He ascended into Heaven and is setaed at the right hand of the Father Almighty.
Jesus ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives, 40 days after his resurrection. Before leaving, he gave the apostles their missionary mandate: "Go, make disciple of all nations; baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
They were still staring into the sky when suddenly two angels were standing near them. The angels said: "Men from Galilee, why are you standing here looking into the sky? Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven, this same Jesus will come back in the same way as you have seen him go there" (Acts 1:11).
We believe that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, which means, he has the power to carry out all his commands and to intercede for our salvation. As St.Paul said: "Jesus Christ stands at God's right hand and pleads for us" (Romans 8:34).
They were still staring into the sky when suddenly two angels were standing near them. The angels said: "Men from Galilee, why are you standing here looking into the sky? Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven, this same Jesus will come back in the same way as you have seen him go there" (Acts 1:11).
We believe that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, which means, he has the power to carry out all his commands and to intercede for our salvation. As St.Paul said: "Jesus Christ stands at God's right hand and pleads for us" (Romans 8:34).
Apostles' Creed Part 5 - He descended into Hell; on the third day he rose again form the dead.
As the body of Jesus was reposed into the tomb, his soul descended into the Sheol, or Ades, which is the place where the souls of the just stayed before the resurrection of Christ (1Peter 3:18-19). Paradise was closed by Adam's original sin, and opened again by Christ's redemption.
At dawn of Sunday, Mary Magdalene and other women went to the tomb, where they met the angel of the Lord, who said : "Jesus is not here, he has risen" (Matthew 28:6).
Upon hearing the news, Peter and John ran to the tomb; after seeing the linen cloths on the ground, they believed.
Eight days later Jesus appeared again to the disciples,
and said to Thomas: "Doubt no longer but believe!"
Thomas replied: "My Lord and my God!"
Jesus said to him: You believe because you can see me, Happy are those who have not seen and yet believe" (John 20:27-29).
At dawn of Sunday, Mary Magdalene and other women went to the tomb, where they met the angel of the Lord, who said : "Jesus is not here, he has risen" (Matthew 28:6).
Upon hearing the news, Peter and John ran to the tomb; after seeing the linen cloths on the ground, they believed.
Eight days later Jesus appeared again to the disciples,
and said to Thomas: "Doubt no longer but believe!"
Thomas replied: "My Lord and my God!"
Jesus said to him: You believe because you can see me, Happy are those who have not seen and yet believe" (John 20:27-29).
Apostles' Creed Part 4 - He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried.
The passion of Christ begun in the Garden of Gethsemane, after the Last Supper. As Jesus was praying with his apostles, Judas appeared with many soldiers, and betrayed him with a kiss. Jesus was brought to Pontius Pilate to have him condemned to death.
Pilate realized that Jesus did nothing wrong, but he was afraid of the people; so he ordered Jesus first to be scourged and crucified.
Upon reaching the Golgotha, the soldiers crucified Jesus together with two robbers. At three in the afternoon, Jesus cries out: "My God, my god, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). Then he yielded up his spirit.
When evening came, Joseph of Arimathea, the Virgin Mary and other pious women, took the body of Jesus, wrapped it in a clean shroud, and put it in the tomb. They rolled a large stone across the entrance of the womb and went away.
Pilate realized that Jesus did nothing wrong, but he was afraid of the people; so he ordered Jesus first to be scourged and crucified.
Upon reaching the Golgotha, the soldiers crucified Jesus together with two robbers. At three in the afternoon, Jesus cries out: "My God, my god, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). Then he yielded up his spirit.
When evening came, Joseph of Arimathea, the Virgin Mary and other pious women, took the body of Jesus, wrapped it in a clean shroud, and put it in the tomb. They rolled a large stone across the entrance of the womb and went away.
St.Paul the Hermit, 15th January
He was an Egyptian hermit and the first Christian hermit. He was born around the year 233A.D and was orphaned at the age of 15 years. He fled to the Theban desert during the persecution of Christians by Emperors Decius and Valerianus around the year 250 A.D.
He lived only on the fruits of a palm tree for food and clothing woven form that palm tree and drinking water from a spring nearby. After about 21 years a bird (Raven) brought him half a loaf of bread daily for food. St.Anthony the Great has attested to the holiness of this saint. When St.Anthony the Great met once St.Paul in his cave, the usual raven bird that used to bring half a loaf of bread daily, brought a whole loaf of bread on that day, miraculously for use by both of the saints.
St.Paul the Hermit lived up to 122 years and died in that cave at about 345 A.D. Tradition says that St.Anthony the Great buried St.Paul the Hermit and two lions helped St.Anthony in digging the grave.
St. Paul the Hermit is generally portrayed with a palm tree and two lions.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Apostles' Creed Part 3 - He was Conceived by the tPower of the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary
Jesus Christ was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, as declared by the archangel Gabriel: "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow. And so the child will be holy and will be called Son of God" (Luke 1:35). St.Joseph was not the real father of Jesus, but only his foster father. We believe in four marian dogmas, namely:
1) Mary Mother of God:
Mary is the mother of Jesus, Jesus is God: therefore, Mary is the Mother of God.
2)Perpetual Virginity:
Mary remained virgin for her whole life, because she was completely consecrated to God, and also because it was not proper that the Mother of God should have other children.
3) Immaculate Conception:
Mary was conceived without original sin, and was never stained by any sin, in view of her divine motherhood.
4) Assumption:
At the end of her life, Mary was assumed body and soul to Paradise, because God did not want the body who conceived Jesus to experience decay.
1) Mary Mother of God:
Mary is the mother of Jesus, Jesus is God: therefore, Mary is the Mother of God.
2)Perpetual Virginity:
Mary remained virgin for her whole life, because she was completely consecrated to God, and also because it was not proper that the Mother of God should have other children.
3) Immaculate Conception:
Mary was conceived without original sin, and was never stained by any sin, in view of her divine motherhood.
4) Assumption:
At the end of her life, Mary was assumed body and soul to Paradise, because God did not want the body who conceived Jesus to experience decay.
Apostles' Creed Part 2 - I believe in Jeus Christ, His Only Son, Our Lord
Jesus Christ is the second person of the Blessed Trinity. He is true God and true man. In him there are two natures, DIVINE and HUMAN, but only one is eternal and was never created. His human nature is mortal and was conceived in the womb of the Virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit. As scripture says: "the Word was made flesh, he lived among us" (John 1:14).
The name Jesus means "God Saves" (Matthew 1:21), because his mission is to save us from sins and to bring us to Paradise. In order to be saved, we must believe in the name of Jesus. As Scripture says: "Of all the names in the world given to men, this is the only one by which we can be saved" (Acts 4:12).
The title Christ in Greek, or Messiah in Hebrew, means anointed. Jesus is the Christ because he is true prophet, king, and priest. God the Father revealed Jesus as the Messiah at the Baptism in the Jordan, when he said: "You are my Son, the Beloved, my favour rest on you" (Mark 1:11)
The name Jesus means "God Saves" (Matthew 1:21), because his mission is to save us from sins and to bring us to Paradise. In order to be saved, we must believe in the name of Jesus. As Scripture says: "Of all the names in the world given to men, this is the only one by which we can be saved" (Acts 4:12).
The title Christ in Greek, or Messiah in Hebrew, means anointed. Jesus is the Christ because he is true prophet, king, and priest. God the Father revealed Jesus as the Messiah at the Baptism in the Jordan, when he said: "You are my Son, the Beloved, my favour rest on you" (Mark 1:11)
Apostles' Creed Part 1 - I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth
1st Day : God created Light and separates darkness.
2nd Day : God dividing the waters of the firmament from the water of the earth
3rd Day : God creates all kinds of plants and trees
4th Day : God creates the Sun, Moon and Stars
5th Day : God creates Fishes and birds
6th Day : God creates land animals and makes Man in his own image
Faith id the theological virtue by which we believe in existence of God and his revelation. In order to be saved, we need FAITH and GOOD WORKS as St.James said "Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17).
The basic truth of our Christian faith is the Dogma of the Blessed Trinity, which declares: "God is one Divine Nature in three Divine Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit". It was revealed by Jesus himself, who said "Go, therefore and make disciples of all nation, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
We believe that God created the universe out of nothing and out of love. The Bible, begins with this solemn declaration: In the beginning, God created heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1).
God created also the angles, with the purpose of serving him and guarding his creation. But some of them rebelled and were cast into hell. Man is the finest creature of God, because he was created "in the image and likeness" (Genesis 1:26).
2nd Day : God dividing the waters of the firmament from the water of the earth
3rd Day : God creates all kinds of plants and trees
4th Day : God creates the Sun, Moon and Stars
5th Day : God creates Fishes and birds
6th Day : God creates land animals and makes Man in his own image
Faith id the theological virtue by which we believe in existence of God and his revelation. In order to be saved, we need FAITH and GOOD WORKS as St.James said "Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17).
The basic truth of our Christian faith is the Dogma of the Blessed Trinity, which declares: "God is one Divine Nature in three Divine Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit". It was revealed by Jesus himself, who said "Go, therefore and make disciples of all nation, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
We believe that God created the universe out of nothing and out of love. The Bible, begins with this solemn declaration: In the beginning, God created heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1).
God created also the angles, with the purpose of serving him and guarding his creation. But some of them rebelled and were cast into hell. Man is the finest creature of God, because he was created "in the image and likeness" (Genesis 1:26).
The Apostles' Creed
Apostles' Creed (profession of Faith)
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth;
I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord,
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again.
He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints,
the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.
Amen
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Baptism of Jesus (Feast)
JESUS BAPTISM - OUR BAPTISM
The baptism of Jesus is the public presentation by the Father that Jesus is the one who is going to teach us what
LIFE & LIVING
LOVE & LOVING
SERVICE & SERVING
DEATH & DYING is all about.
The Personal Presentation by Jesus Himself that
He is the one who is going to give
MEANING & PURPOSE
DIRECTION & DESTINY
GRACE & GLORY to our lives.
The baptism of Jesus was the beginning of His public ministry. He got baptized by St.john the baptist at the Jordan river. The place of baptism as found out by UNESCO- sponsored excavations is the bank of Jordan at Al-Maghtar. St.john was preaching among the people in Jerusalem and Judea to prepare for the coming Messiah and was giving baptism to people for repentance (Matthew3:11). When Jesus toward St.john to get baptism, St.John to,d Jesus 'I need to be baptized by you and you are coming to me?. For this Jesus replied to St.John 'it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness' (Matthew 3:14-15).
Jesus was sinless and hence He need not get baptism like others. During the baptism the entire Holy Trinity worked together and the Trinitarian nature of the God was proved there. When Jesus, the son of God was baptized the Holy Spirit descended from heaven like a dove and God the Father spoke from the Heaven saying 'This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased. All the three, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit were present there when Jesus was baptized . St,John also attested to the fact of the descending of the Holy Spirit on Jesus during Hid baptism. St.John also told once to others when Jesus approached St.john and his group 'Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes a way the sins of the world' Jesus said 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God' (John3:5). Baptism is a basic requirement to enter into Kingdom of God.
The baptism of Jesus is the public presentation by the Father that Jesus is the one who is going to teach us what
LIFE & LIVING
LOVE & LOVING
SERVICE & SERVING
DEATH & DYING is all about.
The Personal Presentation by Jesus Himself that
He is the one who is going to give
MEANING & PURPOSE
DIRECTION & DESTINY
GRACE & GLORY to our lives.
The baptism of Jesus was the beginning of His public ministry. He got baptized by St.john the baptist at the Jordan river. The place of baptism as found out by UNESCO- sponsored excavations is the bank of Jordan at Al-Maghtar. St.john was preaching among the people in Jerusalem and Judea to prepare for the coming Messiah and was giving baptism to people for repentance (Matthew3:11). When Jesus toward St.john to get baptism, St.John to,d Jesus 'I need to be baptized by you and you are coming to me?. For this Jesus replied to St.John 'it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness' (Matthew 3:14-15).
Jesus was sinless and hence He need not get baptism like others. During the baptism the entire Holy Trinity worked together and the Trinitarian nature of the God was proved there. When Jesus, the son of God was baptized the Holy Spirit descended from heaven like a dove and God the Father spoke from the Heaven saying 'This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased. All the three, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit were present there when Jesus was baptized . St,John also attested to the fact of the descending of the Holy Spirit on Jesus during Hid baptism. St.John also told once to others when Jesus approached St.john and his group 'Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes a way the sins of the world' Jesus said 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God' (John3:5). Baptism is a basic requirement to enter into Kingdom of God.
Who can receive the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Any Catholic Christian who has received the Sacrament of Baptism and it is in the "state of grace" can be admitted to Confirmation. To be "in the state of grace" means not have committed any serious sin (mortal sin). By a serious sin a person separates himself from God and can be reconciled with God only by making a good confession.
A (young) Christian who is preparing for Confirmation finds himself/herself in one of the most important phrases of his/her life.
He/she will do everything possible to grasp the faith with his/her heart and his/her understanding;
he/she will pray alone with the others for the Holy Spirit;
he/she will reconcile himself/herself, with the people around him/her, and with God.
Confession is part of this, since it brings one closer to God even if one has not committed a mortal sin.
Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit - his actions, his gifts, and his biddings -in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life.
To this end catechesis for Confirmation should strive to awaken a sense of belonging to the church of Jesus Christ, the universal Church as well as parish community.
The later bears special responsibility for the preparation of confirmands.
Source from Sunday Bulletin, 12th January 2014
A (young) Christian who is preparing for Confirmation finds himself/herself in one of the most important phrases of his/her life.
He/she will do everything possible to grasp the faith with his/her heart and his/her understanding;
he/she will pray alone with the others for the Holy Spirit;
he/she will reconcile himself/herself, with the people around him/her, and with God.
Confession is part of this, since it brings one closer to God even if one has not committed a mortal sin.
Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit - his actions, his gifts, and his biddings -in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life.
To this end catechesis for Confirmation should strive to awaken a sense of belonging to the church of Jesus Christ, the universal Church as well as parish community.
The later bears special responsibility for the preparation of confirmands.
Source from Sunday Bulletin, 12th January 2014
Friday, January 10, 2014
January 2014: Called by God
Reflection on the theme for January 2014 -Called by God
Focus: To joyfully live out our Baptismal vocation as people Conscious of God's call (FRIENDSHIP)
Jesus says "I call you friends because I have made known to you everything I have learnt from my Father (john 15:15).
God's call to us through Jesus is first of all a Call to "Friendship with Jesus" to abide in Jesus so as to befriend Jesus.
BEFRIEND JESUS - BE FAITHFUL TO JESUS - BE FRUITFUL THROUGH JESUS
Each of us has been called by God only because of His gratuitous love. This call is entirely God's initiative just as how He chose to send Jesus to live among us. It is not because of our merits but solely to shower His love into broken lives: There are many reasons why God shouldn't have called us but no worries we are in good company. God called misfits like us.
Moses Shuttered. David's amour didn't fit
John & Mark were rejected by Paul
Timothy had ulcers
Hosea's wife was a prostitute
Amos' only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning
Jacob was a liar. David has an affair
Solomon was too rich. Jesus was too poor
Abraham was too old. David was too young
Peter was afraid of death. Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous
Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses.
Jonah ran from God.
Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted.
Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned-out.
John the baptist was a loudmouth. Martha was worry-wart
Mary was lazy. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk.
Moses had a short fuse and so did Peter and Paul.
Despite our imperfections, God calls us to Friendship with Him.
Focus: To joyfully live out our Baptismal vocation as people Conscious of God's call (FRIENDSHIP)
Jesus says "I call you friends because I have made known to you everything I have learnt from my Father (john 15:15).
God's call to us through Jesus is first of all a Call to "Friendship with Jesus" to abide in Jesus so as to befriend Jesus.
BEFRIEND JESUS - BE FAITHFUL TO JESUS - BE FRUITFUL THROUGH JESUS
Each of us has been called by God only because of His gratuitous love. This call is entirely God's initiative just as how He chose to send Jesus to live among us. It is not because of our merits but solely to shower His love into broken lives: There are many reasons why God shouldn't have called us but no worries we are in good company. God called misfits like us.
Moses Shuttered. David's amour didn't fit
John & Mark were rejected by Paul
Timothy had ulcers
Hosea's wife was a prostitute
Amos' only training was in the school of fig-tree pruning
Jacob was a liar. David has an affair
Solomon was too rich. Jesus was too poor
Abraham was too old. David was too young
Peter was afraid of death. Lazarus was dead. John was self-righteous
Naomi was a widow. Paul was a murderer. So was Moses.
Jonah ran from God.
Miriam was a gossip. Gideon and Thomas both doubted.
Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal. Elijah was burned-out.
John the baptist was a loudmouth. Martha was worry-wart
Mary was lazy. Samson had long hair. Noah got drunk.
Moses had a short fuse and so did Peter and Paul.
Despite our imperfections, God calls us to Friendship with Him.
What is Confirmation in Catholic Church?
Confirmation is the Sacrament that completes Baptism; in it the gift of the Holy Spirit is bestowed upon us. Anyone who freely decides to live a life as God's child and asks for God's Spirit under the signs of the imposition of hands and anointing with Chrism receives the strength to witness to God's love and might in word and deed. He/She is now full fledged, responsible member of the Catholic church.
When a coach sends a football player onto the playing field, he puts his hand on his shoulder and gives him final instruction. We can understand Confirmation in a similar way. A hand is placed upon us. We step out onto the field of life. Through the Holy Spirit we know what we have to do and we have been given the power to do it. He has motivated us. His mission resounds in our ears. We sense his help. We will not betray his trust or disappoint him; we will win the game for him. We just have to want to do it and listen to him.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is normally administered by the Bishop. For weighty reasons when necessary, the bishop can also delegate a priest to do it. In danger of death, any priest can administer Confirmation.
Source from Sunday Bulletin, 5th Jan 2014
When a coach sends a football player onto the playing field, he puts his hand on his shoulder and gives him final instruction. We can understand Confirmation in a similar way. A hand is placed upon us. We step out onto the field of life. Through the Holy Spirit we know what we have to do and we have been given the power to do it. He has motivated us. His mission resounds in our ears. We sense his help. We will not betray his trust or disappoint him; we will win the game for him. We just have to want to do it and listen to him.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is normally administered by the Bishop. For weighty reasons when necessary, the bishop can also delegate a priest to do it. In danger of death, any priest can administer Confirmation.
Source from Sunday Bulletin, 5th Jan 2014
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Experience in Renewal Spirit Seminar (RSS)
Last few weeks I attended my first RSS organized by my church charismatic team. This seminar is recommended by my BEC member( church member) and heard from many that this is a must join seminar. It can transform the life of many and gain many blessings from this seminar. Wow so good? I thought. A seminar or a charismatic healings? I was quite curious. I thought of inviting my parents as well as I always pray to God that they may go back to church. Never thought that my church member invited my mother which would never think she said Yes so quickly. Never thought that my church members can have chance to visit my parents at my hometown. After hearing the Yes and no problem. I quickly register myself, my husband and my parents in one of the sunday at the church.
Just few days before the seminar, My mum called and said that my dad does not want to attend. I was very disappointed and angry. But I know I cant force him. So, I let myself cool down for 2 days before giving him a call. I was thinking how to persuade him to come, his main concerned is too many days as he doest like to be away from home for long. I was thinking he cannot miss this golden opportunity that can change his life. Never thought that my dad agreed to come when I phone him.
Thank God!
The seminar is 2 1/2 days. The first day was 2 hours at night. This is just an introductory. The songs has touched my heart so much, the worships songs always make me cry. After the opening prayer, Fr.Gregory gave an interesting and funny talk. He talked about the procreation, children is a gift from God. Without God, it is human reproduction rather than human procreation. To have a child, it must be allowed from God and only with God, it is truly a blessing. I am childless in my 2 years marriage, the inpatient of my wanting a child has given me a lot of stress, the tress from the family and friends. After the talked, I surrender everything to God and pray to God for the gift of child patiently. After the talk, we were divided into groups according to age group. We introduced ourselves and was asked what is our reason & be expectations in attending this seminar. To my surprise, all the group members are very open, they shared their personal matters.
The second day, Fr.Gregory continues the other topics, my parents enjoy his talk and preaching. I was so happy about that and thank God that we can attend the seminar together, that we do something in common in God's house and experience God. The second half day was continued by Bro Vincent. I have learned a very valuable lesson from his talk on the woman at the well in the bible. The woman who was a great sinner whom has five husbands met Jesus at the well and out to the town to tell the people that she saw Jesus. Her faith was so great that she can go to the town and tell everyone that Jesus knew that she has 5 husband and he is the true God. She didn't care about the how people viewed her, she rather spread the Gospel. I have a great sin that I never confess in the sacraments of penance. I thought I can confess it myself to Jesus and prayed that I never did it again but I failed. So I thought of the woman at the well, how shameful sin that she has committed, she has the courage to tell people and spread the Gospel. So what is it about my little sin? I felt that if I have faith, I should not shy confessing and go for confession. I was thinking that sacrament of penance is a healing and reconciliation and if I have faith I should trust in this beautiful and sacred sacrament. So after the end of teh second day, they have priest there for confession and I took the courage and prayed to God that I have a good confession and finally I went. I felt so great after the confession and truly feel that I am completely cleansed and like be baptized again.I felt the joy in my heart.
Before the confession session, they also have inner healing sessions. It was so beautiful. We prayed to God, the committee member will read out the inner healing by praying and we will meditate on the prayers that they saying. The prayers are basically, pray for forgiveness for family members, fiends and any other person that we could not forgive. They pray one by one for our own parents, siblings spouse, children and in-laws. This is really great healing. Even though, I have nobody that I need to forgive but I felt happy as I have already forgiven everyone long long time ago. I can see and hear that some people from who siting in front of me and behind me are crying.
The third day and also the last day. Brother Vincent continues some of the topics. Before the lunch, they have INFILLING sessions. At that time, I didnt know what it is all about. My heart started to pump very fast and it felt like something big is coming and something is going to happen.
Very ture, during this session, people rested in the spirit (fainted), some cried very loud, some dance and sing non-stop. Yes the Holy Spirit has filled them up. I was crying like a crying baby, I cant stand it much and all my sadness and fear has flow out through my tears and crying voice. Some has receive the gift of speaking in tongue. Amazing.
I definitely recommend everyone to attend the charismatic seminar.
Just few days before the seminar, My mum called and said that my dad does not want to attend. I was very disappointed and angry. But I know I cant force him. So, I let myself cool down for 2 days before giving him a call. I was thinking how to persuade him to come, his main concerned is too many days as he doest like to be away from home for long. I was thinking he cannot miss this golden opportunity that can change his life. Never thought that my dad agreed to come when I phone him.
Thank God!
The seminar is 2 1/2 days. The first day was 2 hours at night. This is just an introductory. The songs has touched my heart so much, the worships songs always make me cry. After the opening prayer, Fr.Gregory gave an interesting and funny talk. He talked about the procreation, children is a gift from God. Without God, it is human reproduction rather than human procreation. To have a child, it must be allowed from God and only with God, it is truly a blessing. I am childless in my 2 years marriage, the inpatient of my wanting a child has given me a lot of stress, the tress from the family and friends. After the talked, I surrender everything to God and pray to God for the gift of child patiently. After the talk, we were divided into groups according to age group. We introduced ourselves and was asked what is our reason & be expectations in attending this seminar. To my surprise, all the group members are very open, they shared their personal matters.
The second day, Fr.Gregory continues the other topics, my parents enjoy his talk and preaching. I was so happy about that and thank God that we can attend the seminar together, that we do something in common in God's house and experience God. The second half day was continued by Bro Vincent. I have learned a very valuable lesson from his talk on the woman at the well in the bible. The woman who was a great sinner whom has five husbands met Jesus at the well and out to the town to tell the people that she saw Jesus. Her faith was so great that she can go to the town and tell everyone that Jesus knew that she has 5 husband and he is the true God. She didn't care about the how people viewed her, she rather spread the Gospel. I have a great sin that I never confess in the sacraments of penance. I thought I can confess it myself to Jesus and prayed that I never did it again but I failed. So I thought of the woman at the well, how shameful sin that she has committed, she has the courage to tell people and spread the Gospel. So what is it about my little sin? I felt that if I have faith, I should not shy confessing and go for confession. I was thinking that sacrament of penance is a healing and reconciliation and if I have faith I should trust in this beautiful and sacred sacrament. So after the end of teh second day, they have priest there for confession and I took the courage and prayed to God that I have a good confession and finally I went. I felt so great after the confession and truly feel that I am completely cleansed and like be baptized again.I felt the joy in my heart.
Before the confession session, they also have inner healing sessions. It was so beautiful. We prayed to God, the committee member will read out the inner healing by praying and we will meditate on the prayers that they saying. The prayers are basically, pray for forgiveness for family members, fiends and any other person that we could not forgive. They pray one by one for our own parents, siblings spouse, children and in-laws. This is really great healing. Even though, I have nobody that I need to forgive but I felt happy as I have already forgiven everyone long long time ago. I can see and hear that some people from who siting in front of me and behind me are crying.
The third day and also the last day. Brother Vincent continues some of the topics. Before the lunch, they have INFILLING sessions. At that time, I didnt know what it is all about. My heart started to pump very fast and it felt like something big is coming and something is going to happen.
Very ture, during this session, people rested in the spirit (fainted), some cried very loud, some dance and sing non-stop. Yes the Holy Spirit has filled them up. I was crying like a crying baby, I cant stand it much and all my sadness and fear has flow out through my tears and crying voice. Some has receive the gift of speaking in tongue. Amazing.
I definitely recommend everyone to attend the charismatic seminar.
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