1 June 2011: The Christian’s relations with the Holy Trinity

‘Our relations with God the Father’

What is a Christian? A person who enjoys a special relationship to God the Father, whose child he or she became in holy Baptism. What Jesus Christ is by ‘nature’, the Christian is by ‘adoption’. He receives by spiritual regeneration, according to his capacity, what the Word received in his eternal generation. “You have received”, says St Paul, “the spirit of adoption of sons, whereby we cry Abba, Father” (Rom 8:15).

The son of a poor man adopted by a powerful monarch and invested with all the privileges of a legitimate son, would be conferred a great honor! Yet this is but a faint image of our adoption by God in Baptism.

What are our obligations towards so generous and loving a Father? Surely, to love him with all our hearts, and to prove our love-- first, by avoiding all that could displease him, even the most trivial faults or failure in our norms; second, by trying to please him more and more by the practice of virtue; and third, by striving diligently in the perfection of our state, in the words of Jesus Christ: “Be perfect therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Mt 5:48)

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, p311

Believing in God Is the First Truth

“I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth.” This is ‘the first truth of the faith’, the first article of our Creed. Creatures give testimony of God the Creator. The more man lets himself be carried away by the eloquence of creatures, their richness and beauty, the more need to adore the Creator grows in him and ought to grow in him. On our knees before the Lord, let us prostrate ourselves and adore.

These are not extravagant words. They confirm the perennial ways of the fundamental logic of the Faith and of the thought about the cosmos as well; about the macrocosmos and microcosmos. The Faith confirms itself in a particular way as ‘reasonable worship’.

I ask you to think about this disproportion which really exists in gigantic areas of contemporary civilization. The better man knows the cosmos, the less he seems to feel obliged to ‘bend the knee’ and ‘prostrate himself’ before the Creator. Need we ask why?

Do people think that knowledge of the world and enjoyment of effects deriving from it make man master of creation? But should men not think, rather, that what man knows, the astonishing richnesses of the microscosmos and dimensions of the macrocosmos, he finds, as it were, ‘ready-made’; and that what he produces on that basis he owes to the wealth of raw materials in the created world?

Could contemporary man not think there may be a fundamental ‘injustice’ toward the Creator in the entire direction of development of his civilization and mentality?

“Come let us go down on bended knees before Him who has created this.”

Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, pp112-3

Our faith rests on the Trinity

Christians are baptized in the ‘name’ of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: not in their ‘names’, for there is only one God, the almighty Father, his only Son and the Holy Spirit: the Most Holy Trinity.

The mystery of the Most Holy Trinity is central to the Christian faith and life; the mystery of God in himself. Thus, the source of all other mysteries of faith, the light that enlightens them. The most fundamental teaching in the ‘hierarchy of the truths of faith’.

The whole mystery of salvation is identical with the history of the way and means by which the one true God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, reveals himself to men ‘and reconciles and unites with himself those who turn away from sin’.

The Trinity is a mystery of faith in the strict sense, one of the ‘mysteries that are hidden in God, which can never be known unless they are revealed by God’.

Ref: “Catechism of the Catholic Church”, Nos. 233, 234, 237

Going (and returning) to the Trinity through Mary

St Alphonsus of Liguori says that the main role Christ entrusted to Mary is the dispensing of mercy, in which service Mary employs all her prerogatives. St Josemaria Escrivá adds: “When I was young I wrote (with the conviction that coalesced around my daily visits to ‘Our Lady of the Pillar’: ‘To Jesus one goes and to him we return through Mary.’ (“Libro de Aragon”)

If our welcome to divine intimacy is possible because of the Son, it is only right that in reaching the Son we return to his Mother, Mary. Neither are we surprised that Christians, who go with Mary to Jesus, also ‘return’ to him, if unfortunately they had wandered away.” (“Libro de Aragon”)

In this maternal task, Mary’s mission is not to mitigate divine justice. Isn’t God always good and merciful? Our Mother’s mission, rather, is to ready our hearts to receive the graces her Son has in store for us. That is why it is always helpful to return to her when we prepare ourselves to receive the sacrament of penance.

The Virgin always provides the shortest and most secure path to God; a most pleasant path that does not demand special conditions. She welcomes us in any shape, even if we can barely take a step. That is when she proves to be closest to us, ‘awakening in Christians a supernatural desire to act “as members of the household of God” (Eph 2:19)’.

She bestows on us the gift of being ushered into the divine family. “Turn to our Lady -- daughter, Mother, and Spouse of God and our mother as well -- and ask her to obtain more graces for you from the blessed Trinity: graces of faith, hope, love, and contrition. ... (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 227)

Ref: F Fernandez-Carvajal, ‘et al’, “Children of God”, 1997, pp60-62

Our Lady

“Virgin Immaculate, my Mother, do not abandon me. See how my poor heart is filled with tears. I do not want to offend my God!

“I already know, and I trust I shall never forget, that I am worth nothing. My smallness and my loneliness weigh upon me so much! But ...I am not alone. You, Sweet Lady, and my Father God will never leave me.

“Faced with the rebellion of my flesh and all manner of diabolical arguments against my Faith, I love Jesus and I believe -- I do Love and do Believe.”

Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 215)

• Memorial of Our Lady of the Star, at Aquileia, Italy. This church is so called, because it is affirmed that a star was seen in open day on the head of St. Bernardine of Siena, when, preaching at Aquileia, he applied to the Blessed Virgin that passage of the Apocalypse, where it is said that there were twelve stars on her head.—(See his life in Surius.) “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar (http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of the Star, Aquileia, Italy (15th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady, Health of the Sick (Kevelær, Germany). (MaryLinks Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Grace (Montreal, Canada) (www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html); (MaryLinks Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Mediatrix of All Grace. (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• The Immaculate Heart of Mary. (http://mariedenazareth.com)

31 May 2011: ‘Ad Caeli Reginam’ (Queen of Heaven)

This Encyclical Letter of Pope Pius XII (given on 11 October 1954) develops the theological argument for the ancient belief in the Queenship of Mary; and proclaims the new feast, ‘Mary, Queen’, to be observed on 31 May; (“The 1955 National Catholic Almanac”, pp66-73) but was moved to 22 August after the reform of the Second Vatican Council. (“Our Sunday Visitor’s Catholic Encyclopedia”, 1991, p804)

Feast -- The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Celebrated between the solemnity of Anunciation of the Lord and birth of John the Baptist. Mary’s visit to her cousin, St John the Baptist’s mother, records her ‘Magnificat’, another testimony of her humility and greatness before God. Mary’s readiness to serve Elizabeth is a good lesson on fraternal charity. (Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1534)

Feast of the Visitation. Based on Mary's visit to Elizabeth (Lk 1:39-56), where Mary spoke “The Magnificat”. (See July 2). (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)

Serving cheerfully

Soon after the Annunciation, “Mary went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country” (Lk 1:39). Having learned from the angel about Elizabeth’s pregnancy and moved by charity, she hurries to help with her household chores. Nobody obliges Mary to go. God, through the angel, hadn’t asked her; nor did Elizabeth seek help.

Mary could have stayed to prepare for her Son’s arrival. After a hard 4-5 days journey, on entering Zachary’s house Mary greeted Elizabeth. Filled with the Holy Spirit, she replied, “Why must I be honored with the visit of the mother of my Lord? ... when your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy”. (Lk 1:42-3)

Elizabeth calls her ‘blessed’ and explains ‘why’. In the ‘Hail, Mary’ do these words excite us with the same joy? As an aspiration they can unite us to her while working or walking on the street; whenever we see her image.

Today we learn once more that each encounter with Mary implies a new discovery of Jesus. “If you seek Mary, you will find Jesus. And you will learn a bit more about what is in the heart of a God who humbles himself”, (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 144) makes himself accessible amidst the routines of ordinary life.

The mystery of the Visitation is one of joy. John the Baptist stirs exultantly in his mother’s womb. We perceive the true significance of the secret Mary treasured in her heart.

This great mystery finds its purest expression in the ‘Magnificat: My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour’ ... simple words but full of nobility and of intimate union with the Creator, a perfect mirror of Our Lady’s soul.

“From earliest times the Blessed Virgin is honored under the title, ‘Mother of God’, under whose protection the faithful take refuge ... in prayer in all their perils and necessities. Accordingly, following the Council of Ephesus, there was a remarkable growth in the cult of the People of God towards Mary, in veneration and love, in invocation and imitation, according to her prophetic words: ‘All generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me.’” (cf Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 66)

We have invoked her in a special way “... but the month of May cannot end. It has to continue in our life, because of our veneration and our love for her, the devotion cannot disappear from our hearts; but has to grow and express itself in a witness of Christian living.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, 25 May 1979)

The way Jesus looked at people “must have been the same look as shone from the eyes of his Mother, who could not contain her joy: ‘Magnificat anima mea Dominum!’ -- and her soul glorified the Lord while she carried him within her and walked with him by her side.”

“Oh, Mother! May we, like you, rejoice to be with him and to hold him.” (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 95)

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:235-41

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

The Visitation: Mary sings of the Love of God -- “God is interested even in the smallest events in the lives of his creatures, in your affairs and mine; and he calls each of us by our name. This certainty that faith gives enables us to look at everything in a new light; and while remaining exactly the same, becomes different because it is an expression of God’s love. Our life is turned into a continuous prayer, we find ourselves with good humor and a peace which never ends, and everything we do is an act of thanksgiving running through all our day. 'My soul magnifies the Lord', Mary sang, 'and my spirit rejoices in God, my Saviour'.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 189)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘The Rosary today and everyday, said with concentration and affection.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p306

· “We are persuaded that families will receive from the recitation of the Rosary a guarantee of heavenly blessings ... When parents and children gather at the end of the day in the recitation of the Rosary, together they meditate on the example of work, obedience and charity which shone in the house of Nazareth; together they learn from the Mother of God to suffer serenely; to accept with dignity and courage the difficulties of life and so acquire the proper attitude toward the daily events of life.” (cf Letter of Pope John XXIII, ‘We have been informed’, to Rev Patrick Peyton, CSC, 1 May 1959.)

· “Mary taught Bernadette to say the Rosary. She gently led her from one ‘Ave’ to the next; she joined her in silence up to the ‘Glory Be’ which she recited with her ... The Rosary has something unique, sweet, and dear about it for each one of us. Does it not enable us to draw near to Mary, Our Lady, in a wonderful way and, through her to draw near to Jesus and to His heart in an atmosphere that is unique for its purity, fervor and power?” -- Cardinal G M Garrone

· “Ah! Mary, Queen of love, the most amiable, the most loved and the most loving of all creatures ... deign to grant me a single drop of your love.” -- St Alphonsus Liguori

Ref: In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP,”Two Months with Mary”, pp53, 33

• Our Lady of Dolours, in the Church of St Gervase at Paris. This image which was at the corner of des Rosiers Street, was mutilated by a ~, in the year 1528; Francis I had it solemnly carried to St Gervase, and he ordered a statue to be made of silver gilt, which he himself set up in the place of the first. This statue was stolen in the year 1545, and another of stone was substituted for it, which always retained the name of Our Lady of Silver. — Du Brenil, Theatre des Antiquites, lib. iii. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Suffering (in St Gervase Church, Paris). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Suffering (“Notre-Dame-des-Douleurs”). Church of St. Gervase, Paris. Chapel in Ultrera, Seville. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of All Nations. (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady Mediatrix of All Graces. (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Mary, Mediatrix of All Graces. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Mother of Fair Love. (Title comes from “Ecclesiasticus” 24:23-31: I bud forth delights like the vine, my blossoms become fruit, fair and rich. I am the mother of fair love, and of fear, and of knowledge, and of holy hope. In me is all grace of the way and of the truth, in me is all hope of life and of virtue. Come to me, you yearning ones, and be filled, for my speech is sweeter than honey, my inheritance better than honey and the honeycomb.) (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Mother of Fair Love. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady, Queen of All Saints. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady, Queen of all Saints. Analysis of the title. In homily by Pope John Paul the Great. In the Litany of Saints, “The invocation ‘Queen of All Saints’ was added by Pope Pius VII when he returned to Rome after his long imprisonment by order of Napoleon." (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Feast of the Visitation. New. Based on Mary's visit to Elizabeth, in Luke 1:39-56, where Mary spoke ‘The Magnificat’. Reflection. (Also see July 2). (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Feast of the Visitation. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth (universally Celebrated). (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Banneaux / Virgin of the Poor. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Annual pilgrimage to the chapel of Mary, Help of Christians, in Tra Kieu, Vietnam. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

30 May 2011: Being an apostle of apostles

To fill the world with light, being the “salt and light” (cf Mt 5:13-4), was how Jesus described the mission of his disciples. To bring to the ends of the earth the good news of God’s love. We, Christians should devote our life to doing it.

Yearn not to be alone; but encourage others to help in this divine task of bringing joy and peace to men’s hearts. “Insofar as you progress, attract others to go along with you, desire to have companions on the road to the Lord.” (St Gregory the Great) (“In Evangelia homiliae”, 6, 6 [PL 76, 1098])

As our Lord tells us in a parable, the sower of weeds came “while men slept” (Mt 13:25). We so easily allow ourselves to be carried away by selfishness and superficiality, getting wrapped up in thousands of passing experiences, that we avoid facing the real meaning of the world and life. Lethargy smothers man’s dignity and makes a slave of sadness!

There is one case that we should be especially sorry about: Christians who could do more and don’t; who could live all the consequences of their vocation as children of God, but refuse for want of generosity.

We are partly to blame, for the grace of faith has been given to us to be shared with others. (cf Mt 5:15-6) We cannot forget that their happiness in this life and in the next is at stake. The christian life is a divine wonder with immediate promises of satisfaction and serenity -- provided we know how to recognize the gift of God (cf Jn 4:10) and be generous, at all costs.

We must awaken the people who have fallen into the fearful sleep our Lord denoted. Remind them that life is not a toy but a divine treasure which must grow. We must also show the way to those with good will and desires, but don’t know how to practice them.

Christ urges us to be not only an apostle, but an apostle of apostles, bringing them along, so that they in turn will encourage others to make Jesus Christ known. How can we bring this knowledge to others?

Naturally, simply, living as we do in the middle of the world, devoted to our professional work and the care of our family, sharing the noble interests of men, respecting the rightful freedom of every man. We must desire to help people of every condition and background to realize that ordinary life can be holy and full of God.

Our Lord is calling us to sanctify the ordinary tasks of every day, for the perfection of the Christian is precisely found there. Thus, we give those around us the example of a simple and normal life which is consistent, although it has all the limitations and defects which are part and parcel of the human condition.

The christian apostolate -- that is, an ordinary Christian living as just one more person among equals -- is a great work of teaching. Through real, personal, loyal friendship, we stir in others a hunger for God. We help them discover new horizons by the example of our faith lived fully, with a loving forceful word of the divine truth. Be daring!

Count on the help of Mary, ‘Queen of apostles’. Without ceasing to be a mother, our Lady is able to get each of her children to face his own responsibilities. Mary always does the immense favor of bringing face to face with the example of the Son of God, those who come close to her and contemplate her life.

[Let us ask Our Lady, ‘Regina Apostolorum’ (‘Queen of Apostles’), to make us understand better that the apostolate is a joyous undertaking, although it may demand sacrifice. Let us ask her for an awareness of our responsibility towards all our fellowmen, especially those we meet daily. (cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:377)]

Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 147

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary, Queen of the Apostles -- “... if we take Our Lady’s hand, she will make us realize more fully that all men are our brothers; because we are all sons of the God whose daughter, spouse and mother she is. Our neighbors’ problems must be our problems. Christian fraternity should be something very deep in the soul, so that we are indifferent to no one. Mary, who brought up Jesus and accompanied him through his life and is now beside him in heaven, will help us recognize Jesus as he crosses our path and makes himself present to us in the needs of our fellowmen.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 145)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘A kind word, a friendly conversation, a helping hand to persons with whom we live or work.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p314

The Rosary, a Gospel Prayer

W J Harrington, OP, in presenting his book, “The Rosary: A Gospel Prayer”, said: “The Rosary is a thoroughly biblical, Gospel prayer. The reason is by no means only because the ‘Lord’s Prayer’ and the greatest part of the ‘Hail, Mary’, come straight from the gospels. It is because almost all the ‘mysteries’ of the Rosary come straight from the gospels.

“The ‘Joyful Mysteries’ are taken from the first two chapters of St Luke; the ‘Sorrowful Mysteries’ are based on the passion narrative of the four gospels; and the ‘Glorious Mysteries’ reflect the close of the gospel and its overflow into the new age of the Spirit and the Church.”

Pope Paul VI, in “Marialis Cultus”, 2 February 1972, said: “The Rosary is a Gospel prayer, as pastors and scholars like to define it ... As a Gospel prayer, centered on the mystery of the redemptive Incarnation, the Rosary is therefore, a prayer with a clearly Christological orientation.”

“Upon arriving, the angel Gabriel said to Mary: ‘Rejoice, O highly favored daughter! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women.’” (Lk 1:28)
“Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and cried out in a loud voice: ‘Blest are you among women and blest is the fruit of your womb.’” (Lk 1:41-2)
Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p52

• Dedication of the church of “Monte Vergine”, near Naples, built in the year 1126 by St William, founder of the order of “Monte Vergine”; and repaired in 1519. — John Juvenal, lib. vii., de Antiquitatibus, c. 3. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Dedication of the Church of the Virgin’s Mountain (1126). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Dedication of the Church of the Virgin's Mountain / “Monte Vergine”. Naples, Italy. ~1119. Monastery founded by St William. Home of a Black Madonna. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. Mexico. 1966. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. Mexico. 1966. Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, religious order. www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

29 May 2011: The Holy Spirit and human society

What was the state of society before the coming of the Holy Spirit? Idolatry and superstition, tyranny and oppression, reigned everywhere. The most revolting vices were even worshipped! The breath of the Holy Spirit swept these away, and substituted the reign of truth, justice, and virtue.

The poor and the unfortunate were treated with neglect and contempt. Even the most civilized pagans did not attempt at providing any refuge for the desititute and suffering. They lacked the spirit of charity: “The charity of God is poured forth in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who is given to us.” (Rom 5:5-6)

This divine charity immediately began to ‘renew the face of the earth’, covering it with hospitals and charitable institutions of all kinds for the sick and destitute, for old age, for children. Benevolent societies and religious communities of men and women devoted their services even at sacrifice of their lives.

How blessed are those who, following the lead of the Apostles and for love of God, served the poor and ignorant. They are almost canonized already by the sentence of Jesus Christ: “Come, ye blessed by my Father; for I was hungry, and you gave me to eat ... Amen I say to you, as long as you did it to one of these my least brethren, you did it to me.” (Mt 25:34-5, 40)

Before the coming of the Holy Spirit and preaching of the Gospel, more than half the human race was under the yoke of the most cruel slavery. In pagan Rome, center of civilization, an individual often possessed many thousands of slaves.

Their masters looked upon them as mere beasts of burden. They were put to death for whim or caprice, compelled to kill each other in the amphitheatres for people’s amusement, sacrificed on the altars of their false gods, or rather, of devils. Philosophers by their reason had in vain protested against these horrors.

It was reserved for the Holy Spirit to abolish them through the Apostles who proclaimed: With God, there is neither slave nor freeman; but Christ is all and in all. These intrinsic precepts, always reiterated by the holy Pontiffs, successors of the Apostles, prevailed and succeeded in civilizing the world.

How great is the blindness and ignorance of whoever attribute the blessings of civilization to merely natural causes! They refuse to see that this progress of the mere human spirit, has not produced such results in lands where the Gospel is still unknown.

Let us pray to the Divine Author of all good for those who remain in the darkness and misery of error, and oppressed by cruel tyranny. Let us break off from ourselves the yoke of human respect and unruly passions.

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp306-8

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary is the Queen of Heaven -- “She lives now and is protecting us. She is there, body and soul, with the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. She is the same person who was born in Palestine, who gave herself to God while still a child, who received the message from St Gabriel the Archangel, who gave birth to our Saviour, and who stood beside him at the foot of the cross. In her, all ideals become a reality; but this should not make us think that her sublime greatness makes her inaccessible to us. She is the one who is full of grace and the sum of all perfections; and she is also our Mother.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 292

Let us offer our Mother: “The ‘Hail, Holy Queen’ at each hour.”

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p314

Hail, Holy Queen -- “Hail, Holy Queen, mother of mercy, hail, our life, our sweetness, and our hope! To you do we cry, poor banished children of Eve! To you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears! Turn then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus! O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!” (Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias [Eds], “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p300)

The Rosary and the Popes

Pope Leo XIII who wrote more than any other Pope on the Rosary, declared to the Cardinal Vicar of Rome: “We believe that We never have done enough to promote this pious practice among the faithful. We wish to see it ever more widely diffused so that it may become the truly popular devotion in all places at all times ...”

Clearly, this form of prayer is particularly pleasing to the Blessed Virgin, and that it is especially suitable as a means of defense for the Church and all Christians. Thus, Urban VI testified that ‘every day the Rosary obtained fresh blessings for Christianity’.

Sixtus V decreed: this method of prayer ‘redounded to the honor of God and the Blessed Virgin, and was well suited to ward off impending danger’. Leo X stated: ‘It was instituted to oppose pernicious heresiarchs and heresies’; while Julius II called it ‘the glory of the Church’.

St Pius V said that ‘with the spread of this devotion the meditations of the faithful have become more ardent and their prayers more fervent, and they have quickly become different people; the darkness of heresy has been dissipated, and the light of Catholic faith has broken forth in renewed glory’.

Gregory XIII declared: ‘the Rosary has been instituted by St Dominic to appease the anger of God and to implore the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary’.

The Rosary and all that it implies in love of Christ and His Mother, becomes an intimate part of life.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p51

• Feast of Our Lady “des Ardents”, at Arras; a wax candle is kept in the cathedral of Arras, which is held to have been brought there by Our Lady in the year 1095. — Jacobus Meyer in Annals of Flanders, ann. 1095. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Ardents, Arras, France (1095). www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm; (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• “Notre-Dame d'Ardents” (Arras, France). 1095. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Feast of “Notre-Dame d'Ardents” (Arras, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Madonna della Guardia” (Near Bologna, Italy). Moveable feast -- Sunday before Ascension. (www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html)
• “Madonna della Guardia”. Bologna, Italy. Moveable feast -- Sunday before Ascension. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

28 May 2011: The Holy Spirit and the early Christians

The gifts of wisdom and understanding, so generously bestowed upon the early Christians, completely weaned their affections from earthly goods and honors. These things became henceforth, only obstacles and hindrances in their acquiring heavenly treasures.

Therefore, “their possessions and goods they sold, and divided them to all, according as every one had need; ... and all things were common unto them”. (Acts 2:45) Thus, freed from all worldly cares, they thought only of heavenly things. They enjoyed great peace and joy, serving God without distraction or hindrance.

The Holy Spirit has also taught us that Christian perfection consists in detachment from earthly goods. Happy poverty! It gives us all the advantages enjoyed by the early Christians, and prepares us for eternal life, as our Lord promised: “Every one who had left house or brethren ... for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and shall possess life everlasting.” (Mt 19:29)

Not less wonderful than the spirit of poverty was the spirit of love and union which reigned among the early Christians. Although differing in nation, manners, habits, all were so united in heart and mind, as St Luke says, “they had but one heart and one soul” (Acts 4:32).

They spoke the same language, prayed and ate together, shared the same joys and sorrows; made the same sacrifices. Men were encouraged to believe in the divine origin of a religion which produced such fruits. The number of converts increased daily.

The works of God remain in every age. The love and paternal union the Holy Spirit inspired in the early Christians, amidst a self-seeking world, still flourish.

Let us show our gratitude by carefully avoiding all that could mar this perfection. Singularity, contention, particular friendships, or special privileges hinder our desiring nothing more than to be in all things like our brethren. We must love them with a supernatural charity, in all sincerity and simplicity; ever ready to serve them even at the cost of our comfort.

“And they were persevering in the doctrine of the Apostles, and in the communication of the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:42) Before their conversion these very disciples had been worldly-minded men, whose whole religion consisted in certain external observances, without interior devotion. Our Lord had once complained: “This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” (Mt 15:8)

These same men have become interior, spiritual, contemplative -- full of the most tender piety. This was the third miraculous operation of the Holy Spirit in their hearts. How did they preserve and increase this gift? By persevering in the doctrine of the Apostles, in prayer and communion.

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp303-5

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary is taken up to Heaven -- “Mary has gone to heaven in both body and soul, ... the angels rejoice. I can imagine, too, the delight of St Joseph, her most chaste spouse, who awaited her in paradise. Yet what of us who remain on earth? Our faith tells us ... here below, in our present life, we are pilgrims, wayfarers. Our lot is one of sacrifices, suffering, privations. Nonetheless, joy must mark the rhythm of our steps. ‘Serve the Lord with joy’: there is no other way to serve him.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 177)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘A smile when someone corrects us or misjudges us.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p313

Papal documents on the Rosary

Encyclical Letters, Apostolic Letters, Apostolic Constitutions, Apostolic Exhortations, Letters to special people, ‘Motu Proprios’, Allocutions and Radio Messages. These documents represent the thoughts, teaching and interests of the Church as declared by eleven Supreme Pontiffs, regarding Devotion to the Holy Rosary.

Three major topics are treated in depth in these Documents: 1) The nature and the history of the Rosary; 2) Efficacy of the Rosary in the life of souls, in serious cases of dangers for the Church and the Christian Doctrine, in ending wars, and in the needs of our times; and 3) Devotion to the Holy Rosary.

If so many Popes, through so many Documents, are persuading us to recite the Rosary, there must be something really special, something good in this Devotion. Cardinal Gabriel-Marie Garrone, in the Preface of a book on the Rosary, wrote these beautiful words:

“The Rosary belongs to the Church. When we point out the official testimonies of the Supreme Pontiffs, their appeals, the word ‘encouragement’ would not convey their forcefulness -- which are almost disconcerting by reason of their number, seriousness, and continuity; when we reflect on the long experience of people, or on the supernatural efficacy of the Rosary in reviving and stimulating faith and zeal, then we must truly say that the Rosary belongs to the Church.

“If the Church recommends devotion to the Rosary with such insistence, she does so in undeniable obedience to the trustworthy instinct of her maternity, its educative and nutritive value for faith and charity. In all this the Church clearly has the assurance of guiding her children toward the Truth of which she is the guardian. ... the Church has the assurance of placing in the hands of her children the good tools of their conversion and sanctification.”

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p50

· “The Rosary is an excellent means of professing our faith.” -- Pope Leo XIII (In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p50)

• Feast of relics of Our Lady, at Venice, where are exposed to the veneration of the faithful, portions of the robe of the Blessed Virgin, of her mantle, veil, and girdle. — History of the Relics published at Venice. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Feast of the Relics of Our Lady (Venice, Italy). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Feast of the Relics of Our Lady. Venice, Italy. Fragments of her veil, more. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Mary armed with a spear saves Rhodes. 1480. Web summary of the account in Robert Ernst, Lexikon der Marienerscheinungen (Lexicon of Mary Appearances) (1980): In the year 1480, 40,000 Turks besieged the fortress of Rhodus, which was defended by the Knights of St. John; the then Grand Master Pierre d'Aubusson then dared to start with his knights a counter-attack. It is reported that during this fight Mary appeared in heaven. In her right hand, she held a spear, and in her left hand, a shield. In any case, the Knights of St. John were able to beat off the attack of Mohammed II against Rhodus victoriously from 23rd to 28th of May 1480. More history of the siege. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. Moveable feast -- Last Saturday of the Month of May. (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)

27 May 2011: First Sermon of St Peter

The strange report of the ‘mighty wind’ had attracted a great crowd to where the Apostles lived. At Jerusalem were devout men out of every nation in the world: Jews who faithfully observed the obligation of visiting the Temple once every year.

St Peter’s audience, therefore, consisted of persons from all parts of the world, speaking different languages. We may justly say he spoke to the whole world. They would surely, on returning to their homes, spread the words of the Apostles, and the striking miracle which accompanied them -- “that every man heard them speak in his own tongue” (Acts 2:8).

Thus the seed of the Gospel was sown throughout the world, even before the Apostles dispersed. They afterwards had only to water and make it fruitful, bringing forth numerous Christian communities.

How admirably Divine Providence adapts the means to ends; or to work assigned to men. The mission of the Apostles was to proclaim the Gospel throughout the whole world, and to found the Catholic Church.

The preceding wonderful circumstances explain how the Apostles triumphed. Let us then trust God implicitly, and rest assured of his assistance in all our labors, the difficulties and sacrifices which the obligation of aiming at perfection imposes upon us. He will supply everything, even by miraculous intervention if need be.

What were the matter and form of God’s help? A collection of texts from Holy Scripture about the coming of the Holy Spirit and its marvelous effects. To it they united the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth, the promised Messiah, that Just One whom they had crucified and slain as St Peter told them.

We see a wonderful freedom and energy of expression, joined with rare prudence and wisdom. St Peter did not begin with harsh rebukes; but reminded them of the various prophecies with masterly eloquence. How their rulers had deceived them into demanding the death of their Redeemer, the Author of life! This was the surest way to lead them to repent and condemn themselves. This actually happened.

If we have to correct others, let us imitate the conduct of the Apostle which was inspired by the Holy Spirit. We must first endeavor to convince the guilty of their error, and to lead them to acknowledge it.

Let us avoid all harsh and bitter words, and presume that their conduct has arisen from ignorance, or the persuasion of others. Thus, we shall gain their hearts and obtain what we desire from them. If we must be corrected, let us regard whoever does it as a tender father performing a painful duty only for our good.

This was most marvellous: three-thousand persons were converted to the true Faith, placed themselves under the direction of the Apostles, were baptized, and received the gift of the Holy Spirit. Five-thousand more soon followed them. The Church was founded and organized; even during the lifetime of the Apostles, was spread through every portion of the habitable globe.

We must never despair of the success of any work undertaken with a good intention. However, we must look for it not to our efforts, but to the assistance of the Holy Spirit. Do we sometimes forget this?

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp301-303

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary is the ‘Mother of Fair Love’ -- “This is what explains Mary’s life: her love. A complete love, so complete that she forgets herself and is happy just to be there where God wants her, fulfilling with care what God wants her to do. That is why even her slightest action is never routine or vain but, rather, full of meaning. Mary, our mother, is for us both an example and a way. We have to try to be like her, in the ordinary circumstances in which God wants us to live.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 148)

Let us offer our Mother: “The ‘Hail, Mary’ said three times before going to sleep every night and each time with more attention and affection.”

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p313

Mary’s most beautiful prayers

After the ‘Our Father’, the most known and recited prayers in the Church are the ones dedicated to Mary:

“HAIL, MARY” -- The most beautiful of all prayers directed to the Mother of God. It has two parts. The first can be called praise, the words of the Archangel Gabriel, and Elizabeth’s words during Mary’s visit. The other contains a ‘petition’, composed by the Church.

... filled with great mysteries; brief but powerful. More precious than gold; sweeter than honey: worthy of being always murmured on one’s heart, frequently repeated with the lips. (Thomas à Kempis, ‘Imitation of Christ’)

“HAIL, HOLY QUEEN” -- A prayer attributed to St Bernard. The pervading thought of the entire prayer is that Mary was made Queen so she might place all her power at our service. ‘Mary’, says St Alphonsus Liguori, ‘is all eyes to discover our infirmities and help us’.

“MEMORARE” -- A popular, brief and very sweet prayer; full of hope in the powerful intercession of Mary. Attributed to St Bernard of Clairvaux (author) and popularized by a French priest, Claude Bernard [“Our Sunday Visitor’s Catholic Encyclopedia”, 1991, pp636-7].

“THE MAGNIFICAT” -- Mary’s thanksgiving and praise for the mighty act that God had wrought in her.

Other well-known prayers in honor of Mary are “THE ANGELUS” and “THE LITANIES OF LORETO”.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p38

· “The ‘Hail, Mary’ is the hammer which crushes the devil and is the joy of the angels, the melody of the predestined, the canticle of the new Testament.” -- St Louis Mary Grignon de Montfort (In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p38)

• Dedication of Our Lady of Naples, called St Mary Major by Pope John II in the year 533. A picture of the Blessed Virgin, painted by St Luke, was carefully preserved in this church. — Scliraderus, lib. ii. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Naples (Italy, 533) (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Naples (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Madonna della Naples”. Italy. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

26 May 2011: Miraculous operations of the Holy Spirit

Simultaneously with the appearance of tongues, the Apostles were all filled with the Holy Spirit and transformed into very different men. From being timid, proud, vacillating, and slaves of their passions, they suddenly became marvels of knowledge, strength, humility, constancy, and holiness; purified from all stain of sin, confirmed in sanctifying grace.

What their Divine Master had not chosen to do himself in the course of three years was accomplished by the Holy Spirit in one moment, and without any effort on their part. These miracles continue, though less sensibly, in the hearts of whoever are docile to his inspirations, especially when the Sacraments are received worthily.

We receive them frequently, and yet we complain of being so little illuminated in divine things -- so weak, ready to fall under temptation, constantly relapsing into the same faults and imperfections; almost always in a state of tepidity. Is the fault entirely in ourselves -- negligent or want of fervor in receiving the Sacraments?

The Apostles first used the gifts of understanding and of tongues to proclaim the glory and greatness of God. To make Jesus, his Divine Son, known, loved, glorified, and obeyed by their zeal and eloquent words.

This language of the Holy Spirit is opposed to the language of the world which is generally employed to speak of ourselves and praise our works, seeking thereby to obtain esteem and admiration for ourselves.

Are we influenced by the Spirit of God, or by the spirit of the world and of vainglory? If we take pleasure in speaking of God; if we seek to bring the lost sheep into the true Church, and to make known the religion of Jesus Christ, we speak the language of the Holy Spirit.

If, however, we speak only of ourselves, we may conclude that he does not dwell in our hearts, since it is ‘out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks’ [Mt 12:34].

The zeal of the Apostles quickly brought enemies. The wicked turned them into ridicule, the Scribes calumniated them. The rulers of the people had them cast into prison and beaten; even threatened with death if they dared to preach again in the name of Jesus.

Not alarmed nor discouraged, the Apostles persisted with greater zeal to preach Jesus and the Resurrection. Their only answer: “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)

If we act in like manner, we shall meet the same treatment: unjustly accused, calumniated, persecuted. But we must not be discouraged nor conform to the world’s praise or blame; but according to God’s law and the directions of our spiritual guides. Thus, we shall be secure from error. Our zeal will be discreet, faithful, and blessed with success.

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp299-30

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary is the Way to Jesus -- “Mary does the immense favor of bringing to the cross, of placing face to face with the example of the Son of God, those who come close to her and contemplate her life. It is in this confrontation that Christian life is decided. And here Mary intercedes for us so that our behavior may lead us to a reconciliation of the younger brother (you and me) with the firstborn Son of the Father.

“Many conversions, many decisions to give oneself to the service of God have been preceded by an encounter with Mary. Our Lady has encouraged us to look for God, to desire to change, to lead a new life.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 149)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘If we have a friend or if there is a child who does not yet know how to say the Rosary, let us teach the way.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, pp312-3

Young saints who greatly loved Mary

We really love Mary if we do something ‘constantly’ to please her. We are not required to do great things to show our devotion. Simple acts of devotion suffice, like saluting an image of ‘Mary’, bringing flowers to her altar, wearing Mary’s scapular, naming one of our girls ‘Mary’, doing little acts of mortification in her honor.

When St John Berchmans, a young Jesuit novice, was lying on his deathbed, his superior came to his room and said: “My dear brother, you are at the point of appearing before God; before leaving us, I beg of you to tell us what special devotion we ought to practice in honor of Our Blessed Lady, that we may obtain her protection every day of our life, and in particular at the hour of our death.” The dying saint answered: “Any devotion you choose; but let it be constant!”

St Aloysius Gonzaga made a vow of virginity at the age of nine and kept it throughout his life, because he was so devoted to Mary Most Holy. St Therese of Lisieux said: “We do well to speak of Mary’s prerogatives, but we must not stop at that. We must make her loved.”

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p35

· “Mary, Mother of God and my tender Mother, pray to Jesus for me.” -- St Philip Neri (In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p23)

St Philip Neri, priest
In his parish was a daily communicant who usually left the church soon after receiving Holy Communion. One day Fr Philip had an altar server accompany this person with a lighted candle until she reached home. Surprised, she returned and asked the priest the reason for this ‘courtesy’. The priest explained that until the Sacred Host was completely dissolved in her stomach (~10 minutes), she was in reality a tabernacle. In deference to the Holy Eucharist, the lighted candle was to inform everybody of this truth of faith. (cf Fr Bel R San Luis, SVD, “Word Alive”, “Manila Daily Bulletin”)

• Dedication of Our Lady of Vaucelles, in the diocese of Cambray by Samson, Archbishop of Rheims. This abbey, of the order of Citeaux, was founded in the year 1132. — Cistercian Chronicle. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Vaucelles (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• “Notre-Dame de Vaucelles”. Cambrai, France. Built in 1140. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Caravaggio (Italy, 1432). (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm; (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• “Madonna della Caravaggio”. Italy. 1432. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

25 May 2011: The outward signs employed by the Holy Spirit

“Suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a mighty wind coming.” (Acts 2:2) The Holy Spirit desired to alert the Apostles of his coming and also to attract a large crowd of people. Thus, an opportunity for preaching the Gospel.

By baptizing a great number of Jews they laid on that very day the foundation of the Church, substituting it for the synagogue. This appropriate symbol represented the zeal with which the Apostles would preach the Gospel worldwide despite all obstacles.

Let us ask the Holy Spirit to breathe his divine inspiration into our souls, detaching them from all earthly objects, and raising them to heaven; and to fill all the powers of our soul as he filled all the house where the Apostles were gathered.

We can reasonably hope for such a favor; but we must not be discouraged should it not immediately come, for “the Spirit breathes where he will” (Jn 3:8). And will come ‘suddenly’, when least expected.

No sooner were the Apostles warned of its coming than “there appeared to them parted tongues, as it were of fire, and it sat upon every one of them” (Acts 2:3).

Why did God choose this outward sign of the presence of His Holy Spirit? Because it was the Holy Spirit alone who could so inspire the tongues of the Apostles to enable them to preach the Gospel in all the world.

For this purpose the ‘gift of tongues’ was bestowed upon them: “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they began to speak with diverse tongues.” (Acts 2:4)

Our tongues may not be intended as the Apostles or apostolic missionaries did. Still, we are certainly bound to use them for the glory of God and the benefit of our neighbor; especially we who remain in the world.

The ‘gift of speech’, of which the ‘gift of tongues’ is only an extension, is among the most precious gifts of God to man. He will demand a strict account of our use or abuse thereof. How frequently is this gift abused?

“If any one offend not in word, the same is a perfect man.” (James 3:2) Here is cause for self-examination.

‘... tongues, as it were of fire ...’ The nature of fire is to enlighten, warm, dilate, purify, consume. Thus, it rightly represents the operations of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of the Apostles. They were illuminated with the light of faith; enkindled in the love of God and neighbor; their hearts enlarged. Henceforth, God alone could fill them.

The Holy Spirit still performs these miracles in the hearts of those who receive him. Why should he not do so in our favor? The novena we just completed, and his own desire to impart his gifts, ought to give us fullest confidence. Let us ask and we shall receive.

Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp296-8

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary, Our Mother -- “... find out for yourself by personal experience the meaning of Mary’s maternal love. It is not enough just to know she is our Mother; and to think and to talk about her as such. She is your Mother and you are her son. She loves you as if you were her only child in this world. Treat her accordingly; tell her about everything that happens to you, honor her and love her. No one will do it for you or as well as you ...” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 293)

Let us offer our Mother: “Affectionate thoughts and prayers eg, ‘Mary, my Mother’ when we pause at work.”

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p312

Mary, the most perfumed lily of purity

Purity is gone in our immoral and depraved world. Pornography, X-rated films; radio and television programs, [Internet] present the daily ‘poisoned food’ of our minds. The devil’s time, trying to convince souls that nudity is art and not sin; that nothing is immoral.

Since the fall of Adam, the senses have been rebellious to reason. Of all the virtues, chastity has been the most difficult to practise. St Augustine rightly says: ‘Of all the combats in which we are engaged, the most severe are those of chastity; its battles are of daily occurrence, but victory is rare.’

Who will save the world from this pernicious evil? Mary, the most pure!

St Albert the Great wrote “... ‘Mary’ (is) called the Virgin of virgins; for she, without the counsel or example of others, was the first who offered her virginity to God.”

‘Mary is a most pure lily, and’, as St Ambrose writes, ‘a heavenly vessel’. Mary is purity itself: her heart was so pure and bright that it attracted the gaze of the Lord and made Him decide to choose her as His Mother.

St Ephrem: ‘O inviolate, all pure and chaste Virgin Mary, Mother of God, Queen of the universe, hope of the desperate ... more sublime than the Angels.’

The word ‘purity’ means purity of mind, heart, word, deed; purity of body and soul. This virtue is essential; impurity is among the prime causes of damnation. Purity, a rare and heroic virtue, is very difficult to practise. The devil and the world fiercely oppose it.

But purity will make us happy; it gives us peace, joy, honor, a good reputation, sanctity, beauty, grace, a long life, and a serene death. Being a delicate virtue, we must be continuously vigilant over the mind, the heart, the eyes, the hearing, and the whole person. We should incessantly pray to Mary and put ourselves under her protective mantle; and pray for God’s protection.

Ref: Cf Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p34

• “Notre Dame de la Blanche” (The White Lady) In the church named after her, in Faverney, France was the site of a Eucharistic Miracle on this day in 1608. (Approved by the Archbishop on 10 July 1608.) (Bob and Penny Lord, “Miracles of the Eucharist”, II:160-3, 168)
• Our Lady the New Jerusalem, at Jerusalem; church built by the Emperor Justinian, in the year 530. — Procopius, de Edific. imperatoris Justiniani. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; /www.bethlehemobserver.com);
• Our Lady of the New Jerusalem. Built by Emperor Justinian. Jerusalem, Israel. 530. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the New Jerusalem (530). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady the New Jerusalem. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of the Blesed Sacrament. (Carmel of St Therese of The Child Jesus, Diamond Jubilee Calendar, 2002)

24 May 2011: Solemnity -- Our Lady, Help of Christians

Devotion to Mary under this title dates back to 1624 in Southern Germany. In 1683, Emperor Leopold of Austria was said to have fled to her shrine in Pasau when the Turks invaded his country. There, he beseeched her put an end to the 30 Years War with the aspiration, “Mary, help!” Another story is the Blessed Virgin appeared to St John Bosco in Turin, Italy, where she asked to have a church built to her under this title. (“A Marian Pilgrimage”, p31, Sinag-Tala Publishers, Inc, Manila)

Our Lady of the Way (‘Madonna della Strada’, ‘Santa Maria ng Landas’) -- The first patroness of the Society of Jesus. Her first shrine was a tiny chapel erected in Rome in the 15th century. This was to become the first oratory and, later, the first church of the Jesuit order. (“A Marian Pilgrimage”, p17)

Mary, Help of Christians, cares for us

As Mary cared for her first-born, Jesus, so she cares for each one of us, as her other children, too.

As Mary listened to the teachings of Christ, so she cares for the purity of His doctrine against the attacks of the enemies of truth.

As Mary cared for the infant Church, so she cared and defended the Church throughout the centuries. She protects it now and will continue to protect it until the end of the world.

It is impossible to enumerate the numerous times Mary has come to the aid of her children. Her graces and favors are infinite. The history of the Church gives faithful testimony to Mary’s continual protection and assistance against many heresies through the centuries. She revived faith, reinforced hope, increased prayer, and inspired scholars to wield the pen in defense of the truth.

Naturalism, rationalism, modernism, materialism, and Communism, almost suffocated every religious sentiment, but through Mary’s work all passed and will pass: ‘You have overcome heresy in the whole world!’

Mary protected nations from destruction and saved their Christian faith. Who saved Europe in 1683 from the Turks? The victory of Lepanto was obtained through the recitation of Mary’s Rosary.

‘Mary is the help of individuals’ -- She constantly watches over each one of us; obtains for us graces to avoid falls, to gain strength in tribulations, to overcome the difficulties of life. She aids us in all our necessities.

1) ‘In temporal needs’ -- The Gospel shows Mary’s intervention in these needs. A splendid example is at the marriage feast of Cana. Saints and Founders could tell us how many times Mary provided the material and financial needs of their congregations.

2) ‘Spiritual needs’ -- Mary is even more solicitous about what concerns our eternal salvation. She welcomes sinners and obtains for them the grace of conversion. She protects us in temptations; sustains us in good will. Mary desires our spiritual progress and is anxious for us to receive a greater share of the fruits of the Redemption.

Thus she sustains us in our efforts to attain sanctity. She obtains for us perseverance and will assist us at the hour of our death.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p32

The love of Mary

St Anselm states: ‘Mary’s love towards God surpassed the love and sweetness of all other creatures.’ Mary’s love was always constant. Her heart was like the altar upon which a fire burns night and day. Mary did not love God like other Saints with frequent acts of charity: she loved Him with a sole continual act.

Whoever really loves God cannot help but love his neighbor. Mary loved God more than all the Saints, thus immensely more than all the Saints does she love men, and helps them in every need.

St Gregory Nazianzen says that ‘there is no more effective way for us to obtain Mary’s love than by showing charity to our neighbor’.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p33

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `
Mary, Help of Christians -- “Yes, we are still pilgrims, but our Mother has gone on ahead, where she points to the reward of our efforts. She tells us that we can make it. And, if we are faithful, we will reach home. The Blessed Virgin is not only our model, she is the help of Christians. And as we besiege her with our petitions -- ‘Show that you are our Mother’ -- she cannot help but watch over her children with motherly care.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 177)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘In addition to the mysteries of the day, one more part of the Holy Rosary.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p312

• Gregory XV, in the year 1622, issued a decree forbidding anybody to uphold opinions adverse to the Immaculate Conception. The same decree forbids the use, in the mass or office, of any other term than that of Conception. — Balingham on the Caledar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady Help of Christians, Europe (16th Century). (www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Mary, Help of Christians. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Way. Rome. Mary, Help of Christians. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Way. Rome. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of the Way. Rome 16th century. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of “Bon Secours” (Montreal, Canada). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)

23 May 2011: The Holy Spirit and Mary

“All with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with Mary, the Mother of Jesus” (Acts 1:14) while they awaited the coming of the promised Holy Spirit. They are in the Cenacle, inspired by the same love and hope. Tradition sees Mary’s presence the anticipation of her motherhood for the whole Church.

“The era of the Church began with the ‘coming’, with the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles gathered in the upper Room in Jerusalem, with Mary, ...” (John Paul II, “Dominum et vivificantem”, 18 May 1986, 25)

Our Lady lives what is like a second Advent, an expectation for the Holy Spirit’s full communication of his gifts to the newborn Church. This Advent is very like and very different from the first, the birth of Jesus. In both we find prayer, recollection, faith in the promise and a burning desire that the promise be fulfilled.

Mary, bearing Jesus in her womb, remained in silent contemplation. Now our Lady lives deeply united to her glorified Son. (cf M D Philippe, “The Mystery of Mary”, Madrid) In the first Advent, the Virgin alone lived for the promise fulfilled in her womb. Here she waits accompanied by the Apostles and the holy women.

“Mary, who conceived through the workings of the Holy Spirit, the love of the living God, presides over the birth of the Church on the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit Himself descends upon the disciples and pours out life in unity and in charity upon the Mystical Body of Christians.” (Paul VI, “Address”, 25 October 1969)

The resolution of our prayer is to await the coming of the Paraclete, closely united to our Mother “by her prayers imploring the gift of the Spirit, who had already overshadowed her in the Annunciation”. (Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 59)

She gave us her Son at the start of the Redemption and “now by her most powerful intercession obtained for the newborn Church the prodigious Pentecostal outpouring of that Spirit of the Divine Redeemer who had already been given on the Cross”. (Pius XII, “Mystici Corporis”, 29 June 1943)

Mary is our path to a better disposition for greater friendship with the Paraclete and greater docility to his inspirations. The Apostles understood; thus we see them beside her in the Cenacle. Let us, therefore, examine the quality of our habitual relationship with Mary.

We must take greater care in reciting the Holy Rosary, contemplating its mysteries. Let us offer her some small sacrifice, different from what we customarily make during the week. Let us show greater affection in greeting her, through her images in the street or in our room.

Mary, “God’s masterpiece” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 292), had been prepared by the Holy Spirit to be the living tabernacle of the Son of God. During her life she grew continually in love for God the Father, God the Son (‘her’ son Jesus) and God the Holy Spirit. She corresponded to all the inspirations and motions of the Paraclete.

The Holy Spirit, who had lived in Mary since the mystery of her Immaculate Conception, came on Pentecost to dwell in her in a new way. All the promises Jesus had made about the Paraclete are fulfilled in her soul. The Blessed Virgin is the creature God loves most.

As for us, despite our many offences He receives us as the father receives the prodigal son. Though we are sinners He loves us with an infinite love and fills us with gifts as often as we correspond with his graces.

After Pentecost our Lady is “as it were, the heart of the infant Church!” (R Garrigou-Lagrange, “The Mother of the Saviour”) The Holy Spirit, who had prepared her to be the Mother of God, now at Pentecost disposes her to be Mother of the Church and of each one of us. Our Lady, cooperating actively with the Holy Spirit in souls, exercises her maternity over all her children.

Thus, she is proclaimed Mother of the Church, “... Mother of the whole People of God, as much of the faithful as of the Pastors, who call her loving Mother. And we wish that from now on she be honoured and invoked by the whole Christian people with this most pleasing title.” (Paul VI, “Address to the Council”, 2 September 1964)

Holy Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us. Help us prepare for the Paraclete’s coming into our souls.

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:585-90

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `
Mary is the Channel of Grace -- “Her power before God is such that she can obtain anything we ask for, and, like any mother, she wants to answer our prayers. Like any mother also, she knows and understands our weaknesses. She encourages us and makes excuses for us. She makes the way easy for us and, even when we think there is no possible solution for our worry, she always has one ready to offer us.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 292)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘A visit or conversation with someone we want to encourage to go to Confession.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p314

Decreed in perpetuity: The Feast of the Holy Rosary

Pope Clement XI (1700-1721), after another victory of the Christians over the Turks in Hungary (5 August 1716) under Emperor Charles VI, and following the liberation of Cercyra Island (Corfu), renamed the feast of ‘Our Lady of Victory’ into the ‘Feast of the Holy Rosary’.

Pope Leo XIII (Pope of the Rosary) established for this Feast a proper office and Mass; and added to the Litany of the Most Blessed Virgin the invocation: ‘Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, pray for us!’

Finally, Pope Paul VI, on 5 March 1971, decreed that this solemnity be celebrated, in perpetuity, every year on 7 October throughout the Universal Church.

All this was done to perpetuate the memory of the Virgin’s protection through the Rosary devotion.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p49

Our Lady -- “Devotion to Our Lady in Christian souls awakens the supernatural stimulus we need in order to act like ‘domestici Dei’, as members of God’s family.” (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 587)

• Our Lady of Miracles, at St Omer’s, where a glove and some portion of the hair of the Blessed Virgin are preserved. — (Chronicon Bertinense. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Miracles. St Onier, Belgium; Brescia, Italy. 1478. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Miracles (St Onier, Belgium). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Miracles of Brescia, Italy (1478). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)

22 May 2011: The Fruits of the Holy Spirit

These fruits enrich the Christian’s life and manifest God’s glory: “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit” (Jn 15:8), Jesus said at the Last Supper. St Paul specifies twelve fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, modesty, chastity continence, self-control, faithfulness (cf Gal 5:22).

Love or charity is the most excellent fruit. “There is no sign or mark which distinguishes the Christian and the lover of Christ greater than the care of our brothers and sisters and zeal for the salvation of souls.” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on the incomprehensible”, 6, 3)

This fruit is “followed necessarily by joy since the lover rejoices in union with his beloved”. (St Thomas, “Summa Theologiae”, I-II, 70, 3) Joy is the result of love. Therefore, the Christian is distinguished by his joy which persists through sorrow and failure.

“To rejoice under trial, to smile in sufferings, to sing in our heart ever more clearly, the longer and sharper the thorns ... all this for the sake of love ... this is, together with love, the fruit that the divine Vinedresser wishes to gather from the branches of the mystic Vine. ... fruits which only the Holy Spirit can produce in us.” (A Riaud, “The Action of the Holy Spirit in souls”, Madrid)

“Love and joy leave in the soul the peace of God which passes all understanding” (Phil 4:7); “tranquility in order” (St Augustine, “The City of God”, 19, 13, 1). A false peace based on disorder is, eg, where parents yield to the children’s whims. Or in a city where criminals are tolerated on the pretext of not wishing to upset anyone.

Peace, the fruit of the Holy Spirit, is the absence of unrest. The will rests in the stable possession of good. This peace supposes a constant battle waged upon the disordered tendencies of one’s own passions.

Only in heaven shall we find fulness of love, joy and peace. Here we have a foretaste of eternal happiness according to our fidelity. In the presence of obstacles, the souls which are docile to the Paraclete produce the fruit of patience. They silently bear with serenity the physical and moral sufferings we all experience in life.

“Charity is the bond which unites brothers, the cement of peace, the crossbeam which gives solidity to unity ... Only take patience from it, however, and it will remain desolate; take from it the sap of suffering and of resignation and it will lose its roots and its vigor.” (St Cyprian, “The good of patience”)

Longanimity is like patience by which we wait serenely without valid complaint or bitterness and for as long as God wishes. Longanimity is the perfect unfolding of the virtue of hope.

Goodness is a virtue which makes us desire the good of others. The soul feels itself beloved by God, frees it from jealousy or envy. It sees children of God whom He loves and for whom Christ has died.

True charity is love transformed into deeds. “Charity is beneficent.” (1 Cor 13:4) Kindness is precisely that virtue which inclines us to do good to others. (cf A Riaud, “The Action of the Holy Spirit in souls”, Madrid) It inspires us to bring peace and joy wherever we go.

Gentleness is intimately united to goodness and perfection. It opposes barren outbursts of anger which really are a sign of weakness. Charity is not irritable or resentful (cf 1 Cor 13:5) but always gentle and refined.

Faithfulness follows gentleness. A faithful friend is precious; his excellence, beyond measure. (cf Sir 6:15) Fidelity is one way of living justice and charity.

The three last fruits refer to the virtue of temperance which produces modesty, continence and chastity as influenced by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. A modest person always appreciates his or her talents, knowing them to be God’s gift for serving others. Modesty reflects simplicity and inner order.

In continence and chastity, the soul is extremely vigilant to avoid what might damage interior and exterior purity. These fruits can be gathered even amidst great temptations, if one avoids the occasion and struggles with determination, knowing the grace of God will never be lacking.

Let us draw near the Most Blessed Virgin, “the Mother of fair love, of fear, of knowledge and of holy hope. Come to me, you who desire me, and eat your fill of my produce. For the remembrance of me is sweeter than honey and my inheritance sweeter than the honeycomb.” (Sir 6:19-20)

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:579-84

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary Ever Virgin -- “The purity, humility and generosity of Mary are in sharp contrast to our wretchedness and selfishness. To the extent we realize this, we should feel moved to imitate her. We, too, are creatures of God; and if we strive to imitate her fidelity, God will surely do great things in us. Our little worth is no obstacle, because God chooses what is of little value so the power of his love be more manifest.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 172)

Let us offer our Mother: “The prayer, ‘Blessed be your purity’.” (In Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias [Eds], “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p15)

“Blessed be your purity, / May it be blessed for ever.
“For not less than God takes delight, / In such exalted beauty.
“To you, heavenly Princess, Holy Virgin Mary, / I offer on this day My whole heart, life and soul.
“Look upon me with compassion, Do not leave me, my Mother.”

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p311

· “I love Mary, I cannot live without her: she is my real mother; the other mother is only my nurse!” -- St Joseph da Copertino (In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, p28)

· St Rita of Cascia: -- Patroness of impossible cases. (Rev Hugo Hoever, SOCist, PhD, “Lives of the Saints”, p204)

Fruitfulness -- “Rectitude of intention consists in seeking ‘only and in all things’ the glory of God.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 921)

• Our Lady of “Monte Vergine”, near Naples. This image preserved from flames the monastery and church consecrated in her honor. — P. Spinelli, Tractatus de exemplis et miraculis, last chapter. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of “Monte Vergine”, near Naples, Italy (1119). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• “Madonna della Monte Vergine” (Virgin's Mount) Naples, 1119. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Virgin’s Mount. Naples, Italy 1119. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Virgin's Mount (Naples, Italy). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Light (Lujan, Argentina). Moveable feast -- 4th Sunday after Easter. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Consolation (Luxemburg). Moveable feast -- 4th Sunday after Easter. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Publito (Queretaro, Latin America). Moveable feast -- 4th Sunday after Easter. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)

21 May 2011: The Gift of Fear

God grants two remedies for all our temptations and trials: “Love and fear ... Love will make us quicken our steps, while fear will make us look where we are setting our feet so that we shall not fall.” (St Theresa, “The Way of Perfection”, 40, 1)

Worldly fear (cf MM Philipon, “The Gifts of the Holy Spirit”, Madrid) refers to physical evil or social disadvantages in life. We tend to flee from all earthly inconveniences; or abandon Christ and his Church on fearing fidelity to a Christian way of life can cause any hardship. Then comes ‘human respect’ which spawns countless surrenders and betrayal.

Servile fear is good. For many who are far from God, fear of the punishment of hell can be the first step toward conversion, the beginning of love. (cf Sir 25:12) Although fear should not be the main motive of the Christian, oftentimes, it will be a great defence against temptation and attractions of evil.

“He who fears is not perfected in love” (Jn 4:18) because the true Christian acts through love and is created to love. The holy fear of God, a gift of the Holy Spirit, is what dwelt, with the other gifts, in the most holy Soul of Christ and which also filled the Most Blessed Virgin. It is a consequence of the gift of wisdom and is its outward sign. (St Thomas, “Summa Theologiae”, II-II; 45, 1 and 3)

This filial fear is proper to children who feel protected by their Father whom they do not wish to offend. Its results are twofold: an immense respect for God’s majesty and a great horror of sin. This gift enables holy souls to admit their nothingness before God.

We may repeat as an aspiration St Josemaria Escrivá’s words: “I am worth nothing, I have nothing, I can do nothing, I know nothing, I am nothing, nothing at all!” (Quoted by A Vazquez de Prada, “The Founder of Opus Dei”, Madrid) Concurrently, he realized the infinite greatness of knowing oneself and of being a child of God.

The gift of fear inclines us to understand that sin is the root cause of moral evils which divide and ravage society. (John Paul II, “Letter” presenting the “Instrumentum laboris” of the VI Synod of Bishops, 25 January 1983) It leads us also to hate deliberate venial sin; and to vigorously react against the first symptoms of lukewarmness, carelessness or mediocrity.

Love and fear must be our constant companions. “When love banishes fear, fear itself is changed into love.” (St Gregory of Nyssa, “Homily 15”) Then the soul understands better its infinite separation from God and its condition as a child of God. A loss of this holy fear of God weakens or removes the sense of sin. Tepidity sets in; the soul neglects God.

In the Gospel, Christ repeatedly said: “‘Do not fear ... do not be afraid’. ... rather fear him who can destroy both body and soul in hell.” (Mt 10:28)

“We are called to fortitude at the same time to fear of God, that comes of love, a filial fear. ... only when this fear sinks into our hearts can we be really strong with the strength of the apostles, the martyrs and the confessors.” (John Paul II, “Address to the new Cardinals”, 30 April 1979)

The gift of fear is rooted in humility and like it, has an affinity with the virtue of temperance. We use human goods moderately, secondary to our supernatural end. Sin is often traced to the disordered search for sense pleasures or for material things. Here, this gift is active, purifying and keeping the heart solely for God.

The gift of fear is primarily a struggle against sin. All the other gifts help in this specific mission: the insight bestowed by the gifts of understanding and wisdom about the greatness of God and the true meaning of sin; the gift of counsel maintains one in a relentless battle against evil. (cf MM Philipon, “The Gifts of the Holy Spirit”, Madrid)

“Love and fear of God! These are two strong castles whence we can wage war on the world and on the devils.” (St Theresa, “The Way of Perfection”, 40, 2)

Let us ask the Holy Spirit to help us recognize our faults sincerely and feel true sorrow for them. May God make us react: “My eyes shed streams of tears, because men do not keep thy law.” (Ps 118:136)

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:573-8

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary’s Prayer -- “Let us ask the Blessed Virgin to make us contemplatives, to teach us to recognize the constant calls from God at the door of our heart. Let us ask her now: Our Mother, you brought to earth Jesus, who reveals the love of our Father God. Help us to recognize him in the midst of the cares of each day. Stir up our mind and will so that we may listen to the voice of God, to the calls of grace.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 174)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘A visit to Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p311

The Rosary points the way to perfection

What is Christian life? It is the life of man, enlightened by the knowledge of God, based upon the holy fear of God, upheld by the hope of a reward, and completely vivified by the love of God. Our Blessed Mother, through the Rosary, teaches us to travel and to advance along the path of Christian perfection by unfolding before our eyes pictures of joy, sorrow, and glory.

It is impossible to live without pure and real joy. This reality of internal joy is shown by the Blessed Mother in the joyful mysteries. By meditating on these mysteries, we come to realize that our faith is a source of joy.

We realize moreover that this joy is not subject to events of the external world, but vital and perennial.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p54

The Rosary: Weapon for Peace

The Rosary is the wonder weapon. At Lepanto in 1571, it sank ships. In 1955, it removed the Russians from Catholic Austria. In 1962, it prevented the Communist takeover of Brazil. In the 1980’s, it has been documented that the bloodless revolution which removed Ferdinand Marcos from power in the Philippines was largely attributed to the praying of the Rosary.

THE ROSARY IS THE WEAPON THAT CAN BRING PEACE TO THE WORLD. (Our Lady explicitly said this at Fatima.)

Ref: Rev Albert J Shannon, “The POWER of the ROSARY”, 1990, pp39-40

Fruitfulness -- “Rectitude of intention consists in seeking “only and in all things” the glory of God.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 921)

Struggle -- “Humility and obedience are the indispensable conditions for acquiring good doctrine.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 132)

• Our Lady of Sweat, at Salerno, in Italy. It is said that this Madonna sweated blood and water in the year 1611, as a presage of a great conflagration which happened on the following day. — P. Spinelli, Tractatus de exemplis et miraculis, last chapter. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Sweat (Salerno, Italy). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Sweat, Salerno, Italy (1611). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Vladmir, Russia (1115). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Vladimir (Russia). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)

18 May 2011: The Gift of Counsel

We could stray from the path which leads to God many times. But God has reassured us: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Ps 32:8) The Holy Spirit is our best Adviser, our best Teacher, our best Guide.

Our Lord’s promise to his Apostles is truly heartening: “When they deliver you up, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Mt 10:19-20)

This promise of Jesus has been fulfilled in the behaviour of many Christian martyrs. It is inspiring to read about the serenity and wisdom of people with little learning, also children in these events. The Holy Spirit, who assists us in even the smallest adversities, will do so in a special way when we must confess our faith.

Through the gift of wisdom, the Holy Spirit perfects the acts of the virtue of prudence which in turn tells us the means to use in any given situation. Often, we must make a decision; but always, our holiness is somehow involved. God grants the gift of wisdom to whoever are docile to the action of the Holy Spirit, so that they decide quickly and correctly.

This gift is like a supernatural instinct to know what gives most glory to God. Just as prudence guides us in all our actions, the Holy Spirit is our Light and permanent guiding Principle. The Paraclete inspires us to do God’s will along the ways of charity, peace, joy, sacrifice, fulfilment of duty and fidelity in small things.

This gift must first be lived in our interior life. The Paraclete acts in our soul in grace silently and gently, but forcefully. “This most wise Teacher has such skilful ways of teaching us ... They are all sweetness, all affection, all goodness, all prudence, all discretion.” (F J del Valle, “About the Holy Spirit”)

From those teachings and the light of grace come those impulses to respond ever better to God such as the firm resolutions in our prayers and in all the day’s activities; allowing ourselves to be advised and guided by the Paraclete, make us yearn belonging entirely to God, without limitations on the action of grace.

The gift of counsel is indispensable in keeping a true conscience. If we are docile, the Holy Spirit will illumine our conscience with advice. Our soul will not make excuses for faults and sins; but will react with contrition, a greater sorrow, at having offended God.

This gift illumines the soul faithful to God such that moral laws are correctly applied, not yielding to human respect nor swayed by fashionable trends; but always ruled by God’s will. The Paraclete counsels us, directly or through others, about the right path which may differ from what ‘the spirit of the world’ suggests.

The gift of counsel corresponds to the beatitude about the merciful (St Thomas, “Summa Theologiae”, II-II, 52, 4); “one has to be merciful to know how to give helpful advice discreetly; such advice, far from disheartening will encourage them gently and forcefully.” (cf R Garrigou-Lagrange, “The Three Ages of the Interior Life”, II)

The greatest obstacle to the gift of counsel is attachment to our own judgment, lack of humility and haste in acting. “Never make a decision without first stopping to consider the matter in the presence of God.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 266) “He who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (Jn 8:12)

If we try to follow Jesus daily, the Holy Spirit will enlighten us always. He will keep us from error if our intention is upright. Mary, ‘Mother of Good Counsel’, will win for us the necessary graces if we humbly call on her aware that alone we will often lose our way.

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:555-60

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary is the Co-Redemptrix -- “It is with good reason that the popes have called Mary Co-Redemptrix. “So fully, in union with her suffering and dying Son, did she suffer and nearly die; so fully, for the sake of the salvation of men, did she abdicate her mother’s rights over her Son, and immolate him, insofar as it was in her power, to satisfy the justice of God, that it can rightly be said she redeemed mankind together with Christ.” (Benedict XV, Letter “Inter sodalicia”, 22-III-1918) This gives us a deeper understanding of that moment in the passion of our Lord, we shall never tire of meditating: “... there, standing by the cross of Jesus, was his Mother.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 287)

Let us offer our Mother: ‘Five small hidden sacrifices in honor of the five major wounds of Our Lord.’

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p310

The Rosary, yesterday and today

The Devotion of the Rosary grew tremendously through the centuries, and became, excepting the liturgical eucharistic Mass, the most popular in the Church. Saints, Popes, kings, theologians and scientists, educated and common people made it their favorite.

During the third quarter of the 20th Century there occurred an unexplainable and tragic decline in this devotion due, maybe, to a new Christian mentality about the form of praying. Some people see in the Rosary only a mechanical and repetitious prayer!

Thanks God there is a sincere and concrete sense of revival toward the Rosary Devotion which is strongly supported by the last Popes, through their continuous public ‘Exhortations’ and ‘Encyclical Letters’.

Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p56

· “Your Heart, O Mary, is of spotless purity ... the fount of all benefits and blessings.” -- St John Damascene (In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p26)

• Dedication of Our Lady of “Bonport”, of the Cistercian order near the “Pont de l’Arche”, in the diocese of Evreux. This abbey was founded by Richard “Coeur de Lion” on the eleventh of March, in the year 1190. — Gallia Christiana, t. iv. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Dedication of Our Lady of “Bonport” Abbey, Diocese of Evreux (1190). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of “Bonport” (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Notre-Dame de Bonport”. Evreux, France. 1190. Mary saves Richard the Lionheart while he is crossing the Seine. ... (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Salambao. Obando, Bulacan PHL. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)

19 May 2011: ‘Nuestra Señora de Guia’ (Our Lady of Guidance)

Oldest of Philippine Marian devotions. This brown-faced image, of unknown origin, was found on this day in 1571 by a soldier of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi atop a pandan bush in a fishing village outside the Intramuros. She was enshrined at the Manila Cathedral until an appropriate chapel was built on the spot where she was found. This shrine became popularly known as ‘La [h]ermita’ (The Hermitage). A Royal Decree of 9 August 1758 declared her ‘Patroness of the City of Manila’. (cf Fr Charles Belmonte, “Aba Ginoong Maria”, 1990, p157)

‘Nuestra Señora de Salambao’ (Our Lady of ‘Salambao’) -- The image (retrieved from Manila Bay in a [fishing] net called ‘salambao’ [“A Marian Pilgrimage”, vii]), with San Pascual Bailon and Sta Clara, is the object of pilgrimages by childless couples (Obando, Bulacan). The name Maria Clara is here derived. (Nicanor G Tiongson, in “Filipino Heritage”, 1977, VII:1734)

The Gift of Piety

Divine filiation is an effect of the gift of piety which inclines us to relate to God with the affection of a good son towards his father; and to regard everybody as members of the same family. Christ taught us how to address God. “When you pray, say: Father ...” (Lk 11:2)

God wants us to go to him like little children in need. And the Holy Spirit, through the gift of piety, teaches us and facilitates this trusting relationship with Him.
“See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” (1 Jn 3:1) We received this gift with the grace of Baptism. Divine filiation makes us trust our Father God with great tenderness since He always wants the best for His children.

This gift of piety disposes us to promptly and easily fulfil our obligations of justice and charity; to see, as children of God, those we live with and meet daily. He loves them with a limitless love and redeemed with the Blood of His Son. Individuals of infinite value.

Moreover, the Holy Spirit makes us see Christ in our fellowmen whom we serve: “Truly I say to you: as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.” (Mt 25:40) Piety towards others enables us to judge them always with kindness “which walks hand in hand with a filial affection for God our common Father”. (R Garrigou-Lagrange, “The Three Ages of the Interior Life”, I )

This gift makes us have a filial love for our heavenly Mother, for whom we have a most tender affection; and moves us to be devoted to the angels and saints, particularly to those having a special charge over us, (cf St Thomas, “Summa Theologiae”, II-II, 121) as well as for the holy souls in Purgatory. It makes us love the Pope, the common Father of all Christians.

It perfects the virtue of piety, inclining us to respect our parents from whom “we have received existence; God made use of them to infuse into us a soul and reason; by them we were led to the Sacraments, instructed in our religion, schooled in right conduct and holiness, and trained in civil and human knowledge”. (“Catechism of the Council of Trent”, III, 5, 9)

Moved by the Holy Spirit, Christians read Holy Scripture with love and veneration, because “in the sacred books, the Father who is in heaven meets his children with great love and speaks with them”. (Second Vatican Council, “Dei Verbum”, 21) We are moved to have great affection for sacred things.

Among the fruits that the gift of piety produces in souls docile to the graces of the Paraclete are: serenity in all circumstances of life; trusting abandonment in Divine Providence because God cares for all his creatures particularly his children (cf Mt 6:28); cheerfulness, a proper characteristic of the children of God.

“May no one read sadness or sorrow in your face when you spread in the world around you the sweet smell of your sacrifice: the children of God should be always sowers of peace and joy.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 59)

If we consider often daily that we are children of God, the Holy Spirit will foster more and more this filial and trusting relationship with our heavenly Father. Charity towards everyone also facilitates its growth in our souls.

Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:561-6

` ` ` MAY DEVOTIONS ` ` `

Mary’s Faith -- “If our faith is weak, we should turn to Mary. St John tells us it was because of the miracle at the marriage feast at Cana, which Christ performed at his Mother’s request, that ‘his disciples learned to believe in him’. Our Mother is always interceding with her Son so he may attend to our needs and show himself to us in a way that we can cry out, “You are the Son of God”. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 285)

Let us offer our Mother: “‘The Memorare’ for whoever in our family most needs the help of Our Lady.”

Ref: Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p310

The ‘Memorare’ -- “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not my petitions; but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.” (Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias [Eds], “Handbook of Prayers”, 1988, p299)

· “Place your confidence in the Holy Rosary. Use this most powerful form of prayer with the utmost possible zeal, and let it become more and more esteemed.” -- Pius XII

· “Mary urged us to pray the Rosary, not just say it. The lip service of mumbled prayers does not please her. Mere recitation cannot bring about the changes in our lives we so much need. Only devout meditation on the events in the lives of Christ and his Mother can do that.” -- RL Rooney, SJ

Ref: In Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, pp55, 57

• Dedication of Our Lady of Flines, near Douay by Peter, Archbishop of Rheims in the year 1279. This abbey of nuns, of the order of Citeaux, was given to St Bernard by Margaret de Dampierre in the year 1234. — Chronicon Fliniense.) (CatholicGems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Flines (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Flines, Douay (1279). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• “Notre-Dame de Flines”. Douay, France. 1279. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)