Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

Posted on by charliej373
early voting in chicago
Early Voting Begins in Chicago

By Charlie Johnston

I am not in Denver right now…haven’t been for over a month. I am working on a pro-life project…continuing to hoe the garden, as it were, as best I can for as long as I can.

In the last week, I met with one very faithful traditionalist Catholic who nervously informed me that he had left the Church and, like Rod Dreher, taken up with the Orthodox. He maintains a deep affection for the faith and the faithful…but the scornful refusal by this Pope to address the scandals – and even more telling, the continual assault on traditional faith and Magisterial teaching by the highest authorities in the Church, has driven him away. He was afraid I would be angry or contemptuous. I am not. Nothing will ever separate me from the Catholic Church I love, but when such seriously scandalous behavior is engaged in openly, brazenly and defiantly by top people in the hierarchy, it is small wonder that people should look for truth elsewhere.

I think now about how I was told so long ago that during the Storm, we were to treat all Christians – Catholics, Protestants and Orthodox – and all Jews as full and equal partners in the work before us. No second-class citizens here. That instruction takes on more meaning for me now. That man I spoke of left the faith not to forsake it, but in order to preserve his own faith for the time being. I have always been adamant against living a lie – for that is the most sure method of permanently losing your faith. Hold fast to Christ, my friends…and be witness to the faith in all you do, that our brothers may not lose hope in these terrible times. God, Himself, will see to re-uniting us if we do our part faithfully during the Storm.

I spoke with another couple who quit contributing to their old Parish because their Priest insisted on teaching things that were contrary to the faith and had become terribly heterodox. They begin a new Parish shortly, hoping that they can return to their old ways. What really moved me was that, when they withdrew support, they did not quit giving by a dime. Rather, they put the money they would have given their Parish into a “tithing” fund – and started actively looking for good, Catholic and Christian works they could contribute to in good conscience. I was delighted to hear that some Crisis Pregnancy Centers have been beneficiaries of what they have not given to their Parish. Crisis Pregnancy Centers are dear to me. They are always under assault by the left for the compassionate work they do. It astounds me that the left openly tries to shut these centers down and stop them from helping pregnant mothers to have and support their children – while simultaneously maintaining that pro-lifers don’t support pregnant women or their born children. What liars and cheats the pro-abortion crowd is!

I know some of you are withholding money from your Parish or Diocese because of the troubles. I will not try to beguile you into doing otherwise until these scandals are taken seriously and the assault on the faith from within stops. But I do ask you to do two things:

  1. Do not withhold money from a Parish if it keeps faith with the faith. Do not punish the honorable alongside the miscreants…otherwise, why should anyone bother to be honorable? Judge righteous judgment. Further, do not withhold support from your Diocese if it keeps faith with the Magisterium. One size does not fit all. This site, “Faithful Shepherds,” which I permanently link to on the Menu, is surveying every Diocese in America and displaying what each Bishop teaches in relation to critical matters of faith. It is a project of LifeSite News – and an invaluable resource. Do NOT punish the just for what the unjust do, for then you cast your lot with the unjust.
  2. If you determine, in good faith, that you must withhold money from either your Parish or your Diocese, please do as my friends did and keep donating the money you would have given to other Christian works you can honorably support. That will make it so much easier to begin right where you left off when the troubles come to an end – as they inevitably will. Jesus promised!

*******

Since I have been out of town so long, a colleague recently asked me how often I am recognized in a new Church. I told him that at the height of the old site, it was rare for a week to go by when I was out of town that I did not get recognized at least once…and three or more times was not uncommon, but it has gotten to be more like a couple of times a month now. This has been a banner week, though, as I have been recognized at Church or at events by 11 different people.

The reason I bring it up is that when people who read me do recognize me, they almost never say, “Are you Charlie Johnston.” Rather, they almost always look at me and say, “Charlie?”, as if recognizing an old friend. I like that a lot…I love being as comfortable as an old fleece pullover to people I have not yet met. I have three favorite episodes:

  1. At a Church in Louisiana I was at for the first time, I was deeply impressed by the theological depth and plain-spoken delivery of the Priest. So I went back to the Sacristy after Mass to tell him how much I enjoyed it. When I saw him and said, “Father…” he looked at me and casually said, “Hi Charlie, how are you doing? What’s up?” I sure was glad I was there to compliment him – because I could hardly have argued with him after that.
  2. I was with my brother at Mass in Southern California. As we left, a fellow came up and said, “Hey Charlie, what brings you to southern California?” I told him I was visiting family, pointing to my brother, Steve. With a hearty smile he said, “Well, we’re glad to have you here.” As he left, my brother asked me who that was. I told him I did not know, but get that a lot. Steve laughed and said he would have thought it was a dear, old friend. I thank all of you readers who have not yet met me – for always treating me like a dear, old friend when you do. You cannot know how it warms my heart.
  3. In a small Parish in the mountains of Colorado, I had gone to Mass with a friend. In line for a potluck afterward, she introduced me to a friend of hers. At the mention of my name, the friend’s eyes went wide, she looked back at my friend and said, “The crazy one?! The guy who sees visions?” I laughed and assured her that, yes, that was me. She gave me a delighted smile and told me what an “honor” it was to meet me as she shook my hand. I love my life!

*******

I know the picture at the top of this article is out of place, but when I saw it I couldn’t resist. And it is a little time sensitive – for me, if not for Chicago’s “early” voters. One of the reasons I had to get out of the Chicago area was my determination that I not start voting Democrat after I died.

 

184 thoughts on “Keep Your Eyes on Jesus”

  2. thanks Charlie for all you do!
    Am taking this opportunity to work on my own pro-life project hopefully by spreading my prayer intentions. My wife and & I say these as one decade of our rosary. I hope others will be inspired to do the same.
    ===
    This decade is offered that we might move towards a culture of life and a civilization of love.

    This Our Father is offered for our president, congressmen, judges and other leaders – that they will open their hearts to the Holy Spirit.
    Our Father who art in heaven…

    1. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide against pre-marital sex.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    2. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide against an abortion.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    3. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide to follow the Church’s guidelines on birth control.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    4. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide against invitro fertilization, embryonic stem cell research and human cloning.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    5. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide against euthanasia and the death penalty
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    6. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide against pornography and other perversions – they will try to be totally pure.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    7. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today, who should, will decide to make and keep a vow of chastity and purity.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    8. This Hail Mary is offered that one doctor today will decide never again to perform an abortion.
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    9. This Hail Mary is offered that one person today will decide not to give up on their marriage but to work on it – and that one person will realize that marriage is only between a man and a woman
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    10. This Hail Mary is offered that one cafeteria Catholic today will decide to re-join the true church and be true to the Magisterium
    Hail Mary, full of grace…

    This Glory Be is offered that I will have the courage and opportunity to spread this devotion and that one person today will decide to join in praying it.
    Glory be to the Father…

    Liked by 27 people

      1. tks so much for your kind words [which pale in comparison to the knowledge that you are praying.]
        I started these intentions in the mid nineties and 4 presidents ago. I am ashamed to say that I have been terrible at spreading them. That’s why I didn’t say much when I published them – I wanted to be at the head of comments on Charlie’s article.
        Again thank you and God bless you and yours. / Ed

        Liked by 4 people

  3. Charlie!
    “One of the reasons I had to get out of the Chicago area was my determination that I not start voting Democrat after I died.” oh, heavens, you do make me laugh!
    And, I seriously hope that if ever I run into you in CO or SoCal or even here in OR, that I will say, “Hi Charlie, so good to meet you!”
    As long as we have our blessed Archbishop Sample (a long time I hope!) or live so close to our Benedictine monastery, I expect we will continue in our bruised, yet beloved Catholic Church.
    As always, blessings and prayers for us all,
    katey in OR

    Liked by 9 people

  4. On another note here are two pieces from faithful Catholic writers, one a priest and the other a correspondent for the National Catholic Register who lives in Rome. These articles forewarn of some troubling matters concerning the final documents from the Synod on Youth.

    As a sign of hope, I find the troubling aspects which these writers address to be indicative that we must be very close to the culminating events of this Storm – the epochal events which Charlie mentioned in his last piece. The powers of hell may press on and try to destroy the Church from without AND within to their wicked hearts’ discontent, yet, we may KEEP OUR EYES ON JESUS, knowing they shall never prevail against her. I believe Christ’s Promise in this.

    http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/the-synod-final-document-a-rush-to-judgment

    http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/youth-synod-final-document-five-areas-of-concern

    Liked by 8 people

    1. Dear Beckita and Charlie, I have read quite a few articles about the outcome of the Youth Synod and I must confess I am feeling a little bit sicker after reading each one. It reminds me a little of the slick and cumbersome things that the Dems got passed some years ago in which they said they had to pass it first before they could read it! The Bishops who couldn’t read Italian didn’t even get translations to help them. Then they’re all sitting down to vote on something like 167 different paragraphs??? It’s looking like they got in all the homosexual type language they wanted to. I’m worried for our dear church. Keep reminding me that God is in charge because these are scary times, friends. I say prayers every day for everyone here!!! (and for our church, our country and the world!)

      Liked by 10 people

      1. God bless you, Diane. When I’m tempted to become overwhelmed with all that is swirling, I think of the gifts of the difficulties. A major one is knowing that a purpose of the Storm, and all life’s storms, is to bring us to a greater reliance on God. In Him is all our hope. So grateful for His Power, His Ways far and above our own, and His Pure Love that rescues us every time we give Him the freedom to do it via our complete trust in Him. Praying with you and for you, Diane. We were created for this. Together, in Him, we CAN do this. ❤️🙏🔥

        Liked by 4 people

        1. Thanks Beckita. You remind me of a note I have inside my Daily Calendar which says …”We were chosen before we were born, to live in these times!” Gosh, if God chose us for these times, He must have “things” for us to do. Sure hope I am up to the task. I wouldn’t want to disappoint our Lord. And always a good reminder is what Padre Pio said…”Pray, Hope, and Don’t worry.” God Bless You all.

          Liked by 2 people

  5. OK, I have been sitting on this one since Oct 1st, trying to decide if I should share it or not. It appears the moment has come. Forgive me for it is a bit graphic. I went to bed the last day in September but could NOT sleep. At about 1:30 in the morning (Oct 1st) I had what I will describe as a day dream. I saw myself walking, step by step, looking straight ahead. An invisible blade suddenly cut my feet off. I had no reaction. I simply kept walking, looking straight ahead. This invisible blade kept swinging back and forth taking more and more of my legs. I stayed focused on what had my attention moving forward on stumps. When my legs were completely gone I began swimming in my own blood, still undaunted. The scene then zoomed out so I could see the larger picture. I saw many like myself swimming in a sea of blood. We were all moving forward toward the same goal. We were all taking the next right step despite having our legs literally taken out from under us. I didn’t fall asleep until 4:30 am.! I had a basic understanding of it but my Spiritual Director helped me to a deeper understanding. To keep it simple, tho the very foundations that we stand on have been taken out from underneath us, we continue moving forward keeping our eyes on Our Triune God. I will keep my eyes on Jesus. I will move towards Jesus. No matter what.

    Liked by 15 people

    2. Wow, Kris that had to be daunting to experience as is what is happening in the Church and world. Praise be to God, we know how it ends, when we keep our eyes on Christ! ❤

      Liked by 4 people

    3. Hey Kris R,
      Your vision of determination is an exact duplicate of what I was discussing with my wife after mass today. I mentioned how despite all the scandal and unorthodox changes the church has suffered through I have never taken my eyes off the goal…Jesus.
      It seems to me I was never lead by anybody but Our Lord when it came to my faith because other than being dismayed or saddened by any scandal in the church I felt sorry for and concerned for those who scandalized. I never felt the need to have a “hero” to follow, I followed Jesus and He was hero enough. True enough though, there were plenty of people out there that scandalized me other than religious persons so it didn’t surprise me when they fell victim to sins too. Seems everyone is susceptible to
      a falling out from the human condition. Of course, I felt the religious person was in much worse shape from it compared to the average Joe since they were a person of public respectability and were expected to hold up that office according it’s dignity. But I was around all kinds of people who held dignified positions and who, at times, abused them behind the scene- to my embarrasement ….f0r them, not for me. You see, I believe God sees everything and so to me it was embarrassing for them to be seen by God doing such things even if they did not feel embarrassed.
      I recollect my own sins often and ponder that day I stand before God and they are all revealed down to the smallest sin. I feel such shame and embarrassment, especially when all my friends and loved ones see who I really am.
      (But despite this knowledge, I keep right on sinning).
      Fortunately, before this trial, the veil will have been removed and I will see God as He truly is and I will know the honest dispositions of the others and, for those that love me, their hope in my salvation and not my condemnation.
      So I pray for those who scandalize, and I pray that when I do, they are praying for me too.

      Liked by 7 people

      1. Thank you for this reflection, Phillip. I’ve written here before that one of my favorite lines of a hymn from Evening Prayer is:

        “We all have secret fears to face and minds and motives to amend.”

        Yes we do. And your thoughts reflect this verse.

        Liked by 2 people

      1. I am grateful to be able to share it with those who understand. Hopefully if I begin to waver I will remember it and steady myself toward Jesus.

        Liked by 3 people

    1. Ditto on Steve’s comment! Charlie, you probably have some great untold stories about such
      nefarious tactics that you should share sometime….

      Liked by 3 people

    2. SteveBC: I know, right? When I saw the caption on the picture at the start of the article, I thought it was very funny. But when I read Charlie’s last line, I nearly lost it. What a hoot!

      Liked by 5 people

  7. Whenever I see a squirrel I stop & say a prayer for you, my Charlie…I see them often…the last one was standing on his back legs, had a bunch of nuts in his mouth & we just looked at each other for a long time, just musing over tnrs😄 I would recognize you anywhere, Charlie…but I would run up to you & give you a great big ole bear hug

    Liked by 5 people

  8. We named our oldest “Charles” after my maternal grandfather. My wife and I both agreed to never call him “Chuck.” She wanted us to call him “Charlie” from the get-go. By way of explanation she said, “Charlie is dependable name, your go-to buddy, the kind of fella that has your back whatever the odds and cost.” It was either that or “Earl.” “Not happenin’,” said she.

    Liked by 9 people

    1. I am not fond of the name, “Chuck.” Once when I was much younger and wilder than I am now, a friend made some sassy comment to me and finished by calling me Chuck rather than Charlie. I drily looked at her and said, “Nobody who isn’t sleeping with me is allowed to call me Chuck.” She responded, “Okay Chuck.” I was taken aback – but later told her it was the best pickup line anyone ever used on me.

      Liked by 6 people

      1. I can’t say my past is much different from yours, Charlie. When looking back, I do so without a longing for the “good old days” when I enjoyed the warm company of the fair sex. I may wince at some wild memory and wonder, “Who was that guy?” But I also don’t lament my actions either — they were wrong and probably caused more pain than I realize, but they were confessed and I am forgiven them.

        Now if I look back and start enjoying a memory too much, then I quickly stop myself and say a breath prayer…or slap my cheek. I realize this may be a struggle to the very end. Father Malachi Martin was once asked if he, as an older priest, still struggles with attraction toward women. He sighed and affirmed this ongoing challenge with humor: “…until they put the last nail in my coffin.” 🙂

        It’s a blessing to grow older while growing in faith as the randy temptations s.l.o.w.l.y. dwindle. Prayer and scripture definitely help rewire the mind. But even today I still wrestle a bit (ok…sometimes a lot) with seeing women as sexual creatures rather than seeing them as God’s beloved daughters.

        This is a particular reason why the Blessed Virgin Mary is such a special and important woman in my life. She is helping me to see.

        Liked by 5 people

        2. I was astonished a few years ago to tell my director Priest I am rarely even tempted any more. For the first decade I lived celibacy, the battle was a hot and constant one. Maybe it is just because I am getting older. But when I see a beautiful woman, I am fully aware of her attractiveness, but in a detached sort of way…and my warm feelings are focused on my duty to her as a sister or daughter. I know concupiscence is a lurking snake that can strike without warning, but if it did, I have little doubt I would get up the next day and resolutely begin again. Also, having come this far, there is a momentum to it…I have become justifiably proud of the battle thus far.

          Liked by 7 people

          1. Actually, the temptation is far less than I suggested, Charlie. It has all but evaporated from my heart. It’s just a shadow that lingers. I don’t dream or fantasize, leer, joke, or make suggestive comments. The idea of being intimate as I was with my wife is foreign to me. It’s an impossibility, a strange idea especially because I’m not even dating. I don’t know anyone well enough to even contemplate kissing. And if something inappropriate somehow presents itself, I would move away. I’m grateful for this change. Perhaps this is why so many people associate me with being a priest, which is a bit odd, but they say I seem like a holy person. I assure them I’m just a sinner who is trying hard…my remaining temptations are more toward the safe, sterile, digital representations of women — a way of being intimate without human contact (and a distorted way of seeking God and beauty); fortunately this temptation is also diminishing with time, prayer, and effort.

            It’s true that this snake can strike without warning. Sometimes in a professional capacity as a nurse I find myself in close contact with a patient I find very attractive. That can be challenging. A thought may enter my mind such as imagining dating her, that I like her personality, the “what if”. That can trigger “warmer” feelings, a brief yearning, that I sort out in private later.

            What I miss most about being married is not the physical contact but rather the companionship. I miss us cooking together in the kitchen and sharing a wonderful meal. I miss growing together, the connection. Celibacy certainly is a sacrifice for a sensitive, social creature like myself, but it’s not really that hard because I know great love and intimacy awaits in heaven.

            Liked by 4 people

            1. PD,
              Ditto! I have been chaste five years now, but I still do have the vivid day dreams and awake in the early am hours contemplating former sinful (heterosexual) pleasures.

              Confession, reconciliation and striving to ontain a Plenary Indulgence each day has worked for me. Occasionaly I request a Plenary Indulgence for me, but most are sent to the Holy Souls in Purgatory. Cutting those ‘loose’ strings of sin attachment has been key and my prayer routine has helped.

              How I look forward to the next eight (8) days with joy in my Heart! Yipee!

              Liked by 2 people

  9. Always sadden to hear when a brother or sister leaves Holy Mother Church because of “fallen” man. Charlie’s ideas for supporting good priests and bishops is the only way to make sure that His church survives these times. I’ve always “vetted” the charities I give to…..this leads me to helping those right next to me whenever I can. God bless you Charlie and the TNRS family.

    Liked by 9 people

  10. Oh gosh — I sit with my finally delivered third-try out of state ballot in front of me; praying it makes it back to right state safely as a cast vote, tomorrow.

    I am a citizen of two states currently. Shouldn’t be, as I changed my primary state after my husband died in said state last October, RIP. Apparently he might still be a live citizen in one or two states, too.

    But it is so; my original State driver’s license was actually accepted somewhere; also the second state’s Auditor actually sent a questionnaire to my deceased husband before he had registered to vote in said state, and after he had died in same state.

    My ballot must make it safely back to new state in which I’m now newly registered, from my original state where I am now since August, undoing the household. I waited with baited breath the three days it took to get to my neighbor, as my mail is stopped — with sloppy mail delivery, and on a weekend.

    God speed it, I pray. God foil the plans of the wicked and lead us all in the next right step. Amen.0

    Liked by 9 people

    1. I checked the status of my ballot.

      It made it and got counted. Yay!

      ( I offered the effort for every voter tempted to give up). Also more so for hearts and minds to vote as pure as possible; to reduce our collective guilt if it goes south.

      Liked by 3 people

  13. Also, perhaps you selected the photo because it is right and good for all of us to remember death is in our future and to make right choices. And we may be called to make the ultimate sacrifice. Be prepared! Sacraments, fasting and prayer!

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Yes, a very timely photo. After Mass for the Holy Souls on Friday we have a tradition of the parish priest leading the Rosary through the adjoining cemetery which goes back to the settlement days in South Australia.

      Liked by 7 people

  14. Charlie, with all the new churches you visit while on your travels, my grandma, told me a way long time ago, that when you go to a church that you have never visited, you get 3 wishes…. Grandma’s are never wrong…. Get lots of wishes Charlie!
    Cindy

    Liked by 7 people

  16. I just finished reading the book School of Darkness by Bella Dodd. Has anyone here read it? I consider it a must read for these times. It truly brings to light much of what is and has been going on for a century.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Kris, I have that book. I read perhaps the first third or half of it, and then I stopped; I already knew how that train wreck was going to end (we’re living it) and didn’t want to watch it happen in slow motion, so to speak. But I agree with you: it is a must read; and if I weren’t such a wimp, I’d pick it back up tomorrow and finish it.

      Liked by 5 people

      1. Mick, I even found myself picking up the trail where Bella Dodd left off doing some research to connect the dots up to today. If you don’t want to read the whole book, skip to the last chapter or so. Raise a child up in the faith and they will return.

        Liked by 2 people

  17. Since I am not on social media like Facebook I would like to publicly thank St. Jude for his prayers for me on this site. I would also like to thank all of you for being a little sunshine in the gloomy skies these days, especially Charlie for my kind of humor. Thanks all!

    Liked by 13 people

    1. Suzanne,

      Thank you for this wonderful idea! I was praying this morning about how I could publicly thank St. Jude as well since I don’t have social media accounts. So, THANK YOU ST. JUDE for hearing my prayers and interceding for ALL OF US!!!

      God Bless,

      Becky-TN

      Liked by 6 people

      1. I too don’t do FaceBook, etc.
        Thank you St. Jude for answering my prayers for our nation to become a believing, worshipping Christian nation once again. Thank you for your prayers for my sons, wife, fiancé, and girlfriend will return to the sacraments and put their trust in Jesus.

        Liked by 5 people

    2. Suzanne,
      Great idea!
      I would also like to publicly thank St. Jude for his intercession for me and my intentions, and for all the people/
      intentions he has been interceding for.
      God bless us all.

      Liked by 7 people

    3. Suzanne, I echo Becky’s sentiments: Thank you for the great idea! I, too, was wondering how to thank and promote St. Jude at the end of the novena to him, since I, like you, have no social media accounts. So, to St. Jude: Thank you, great Apostle, for interceding for my (our) needs and intentions. May you be known, loved, and venerated everywhere.

      Liked by 8 people

    5. I no longer have any social media either, so will add my thank-you to St. Jude here. Dearest St. Jude, thank you for listening to my long prayers, for interceding on my behalf and all who believe in your power of intercession. Thank you, God, for giving us St. Jude! Amen.

      Liked by 7 people

      1. Great way to thank St. Jude, and I’ll add my thanks also! I’ve been praying to him again b/c I need for him to repeat the miracle we had 15 yrs. ago. He helped my husband (unbeknownst to him!) get rid of so much stuff so we could move without 2 huge moving vans of stuff! (I’m only slightly exaggerating.) Now I have the same request of St. Jude b/c we are downsizing once more, and I have a packrat husband. I love him so dearly, but I have to be honest. I gave St. Jude credit last time; he really helps!

        Liked by 7 people

    6. Guess we are all in the same boat.
      Thank you St. Jude! I am also sending a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in thanksgiving.

      Liked by 9 people

        1. Thanks for the link, Jen. Great reminder of Danny’s great work. My childhood parish hosted him in the fifties as he made his way around the country. My brother, Danny, was newly released from the hospital after a procedure to help him as they managed his polio symptoms. Danny Thomas’s heart was so moved by the wee kid in his braces and crutches that he scooped up my brother and proceeded to sing to him. Can you guess which tune he chose? Why, Danny Boy, of course.

          Liked by 7 people

            1. Me, too, Jen; I cannot get to the end of that song without tears in my eyes. I’m getting a lump in my throat just thinking about it.

              Liked by 3 people

          3. Ah Beckita biscuits my dad had a fabulous untrained natural Irish tenor and could render “Oh Danny Boy” like no other! Your story brought tears to my eyes as does a great rendition by the likes of the Irish tenors when I hear it. When I visit my Dad’s grave, I always remember to say a few Aves for him.

            Liked by 2 people

    7. Suzanne,
      I had similar thoughts about needing to acknowledge St Jude’s intercession. And I do not do social media.
      Thank You, St Jude, you have always answered my plea for help. May great fruit come forth for my family and our nation through your intercession. To God be the Glory.

      Liked by 3 people

  18. Excellent article. Mary’s month, and it is almost gone. Charlie that was a great piece. I am sure that when people hear your voice or read your words, you are there for a long long time in their hearts and memories. Thank you for giving us hope and thank you for your constant continuous love of Christ. You are one of His great leaders in this time, and we thank our Lord that you have come into our lives. I have not come upon any others so far, but one and she is not yet allowed to share her information publically. Time and space…amazing!

    Liked by 9 people

  19. THANK YOU ST. JUDE for hearing my prayers and interceding for ALL OF US!!!

    As a side note, this is not the first time that I have sought out St. Jude’s intersession and have had prayers answered. Last time it was that my Father would receive Jesus before he passed at age 93. The people around him were not “practicing” Catholics and I was miles away. While in Adoration, I prayed to St. Jude to make sure my Dad received communion before he died. A short while later, while still in Adoration, I received a text from my nephew who was “sitting” with my Dad and he said that he thought to call a Priest to come over and be with my Dad and bring him communion! Thank you St. Jude!

    Love testimonies like this! I have many to share! God is good! Jesus, Mary and Joseph are saving souls all of the time. I serve whenever I can! I love it!

    Liked by 9 people

  20. Once upon a time, in the land before facebbook, and when I used to read a newspaper, I always wondered why the St. Jude prayer would be published in the newspaper. Now I know. This is another idea of how to publicly thank St. Jude for his intercession. Thank you St. Jude from me also for interceding for me, and all of us before the Throne of God Almighty.

    Liked by 9 people

  21. Always love to read your thoughts, Charlie. That last line cracked me up! I didn’t put 2+2 together re the picture till I read that last line. Can you imagine what election outcomes would be like if there were no invalid votes, dead people, malfunctioning machines, etc.?

    One of my favorite charities (instead of the diocese) is the Military Ordinariate. Our troops don’t even have enough priests, and the military archdiocese gets no tax money to train priests, etc.

    Liked by 3 people

  22. Good advice, Charlie!

    “Chuck” makes me think of good ole Charlie Brown and Peppermint Patty. I do not recall anyone on the site ever calling you, “Charles ” like Marcie.

    Anyway, thank you, Saint Jude for your intercession in regards to my recent novena and for all of the times you have helped me throughout my life in response to asking your help. Pleade give your brothers James, Joseph , and Jesus a hug from me and help all of our friends and their needs on this site.

    Liked by 4 people

  23. Please keep the laity and the faithful priests of the Diocese of Buffalo (NY) in your prayers. We are in the middle of the spiritual battle and, as foot soldiers, we feel like we’re being beaten up. May God give us the strength to carry on.

    Liked by 9 people

    3. CM, my dear father, God rest his soul, was born in Buffalo. I have prayed a Prayer of Miraculous Trust for the Diocese of his birth. I have prayed for the strength, endurance, and protection for the faithful priests and laity, invoking the intercession of my father’s namesake, Saints John the Apostle and John the Baptist.

      ❤

      Liked by 5 people

    5. CM Bookmark,

      Be not afraid, but pray. I am very aware of what is going on, living within the bounds of the Buffalo Diocese, but a member of the Eparchy of Stamford. Pray for Bishop Malone. He has some bad advisers and has refused to.listen to good advice. Bishop Malone has listened to the wrong people and the result is a great purification has begun, and it has begun for some priests. I would recommend the Litany of the Precious Blood promulgated NY St.John xxiii.

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Thank you, James! I am praying the EWTN Novena for Priests but will start the Litany of the Precious Blood as well. I have always liked Bishop Malone and something with this whole whistleblower mess just doesn’t smell right. I do fear that this will drive more lukewarm Catholics away from the Church. We’re just trying to keep our eyes on the cross, pray for all and know that God will sort it all out.

        Liked by 2 people

  25. Just a couple of thoughts under this “Keep Your Eyes On Jesus” thread. (btw – love the “keep your eyes on Jesus” theme… can’t say it enough).

    I’ve shared some ponderings/pics about the desert here during the height of summer. Seems some late summer monsoons and generous fall rains have turned the scorched, dusty desert into green pasture. Yes, just like that… an all-you-can-eat buffet for the wild mustangs and other omnivorous critters. Check out this shot from today:

    Trekking in, I somehow managed to stumble upon that same little cactus that was previously sporting the ringlet of flowers… a little crown. Seems the crown has now blossomed further into fruit:

    Later, I stumbled upon a cow pie and thought of “Patrick Hunts With Truck” who mended that fella’s broken toe. Naturally, I couldn’t resist. So sent it flying across the prairie with the front end of my steel-toed boot. Fortunately it was somewhat fresh, so no injury to report.

    Attaching a little video here of some old friends I ran into on the ridge. That first set shows the typical reaction, but some apparently recognized me and all but said, “Oh, it’s that guy.” Especially Red, and that youngster at the end of the video with the white diamond. Spunky lil’ fella made my day. I think I’ll call him JT (for Judas Thaddeus):

    http://sweetwaterhaven.com/spiritual_adventures_video_32.html

    Someone close recently asked me whether there was any peace to be had in this life. This prompted by a personal storm and the crashing of the waves all around her. I think “yes,” and said as much.

    After a long pause, I added that I think we have peace in proportion to how much we love. She sorta snorted when I said that and wrinkled her brow. After another long pause, she asked if I have any peace. I told her I don’t sweat it much, because I keep myself busy learning how to love. Got a long, long way to go, but work is good, and I think that Jesus wants me to keep it simple.

    God is simple. Just love Him back.

    Liked by 13 people

    1. Yay, MP! When I saw that there were going to be pictures and such of the greened-up desert, I was hoping against hope that maybe there’d be some of the horses. You did not disappoint! Did you have to zoom in, or were the horses really that close to you? Good gravy, they are beautiful. Thanks once again for sharing the beauty of the desert (and the horses) with us. 🙂 (P.S. The music to which you set the video was just perfect–nice and plucky.)

      Liked by 5 people

      1. I zoomed for the running ones, Mick, but Red was right in front of me and JT eventually came right up so I could put my hand on his muzzle. I just couldn’t work the iPad while he was within arms reach because I needed both my hands and all attention on the colt.

        It’s easy to get amongst them on horseback (they mostly focus on your horse), but tricky on foot. It’s taken years to get to this point on foot and felt like I won the lottery. A simple, but hard way.

        Liked by 7 people

      1. I’m simply so grateful too, DP. So sad how very many struggle to know that God loves them, and worse, how many know yet openly reject His love. It’s worse than any horror story I’ve ever read.

        I was briefly pondering this struggle with sin from the very outset. He (the serpent) said to the women, “Did God say, ‘you shall not eat from any tree in the Garden’?” Gen 3:1. See? Move the battlefield right to the head and get her (Eve) stuck there, cut off from the heart.

        The heart would have informed to look for God immediately in silence. Spiritual eyes. As backup, her physical eyes would have taken in the great gift of the Garden and recognized evidence of His love immediately.

        Note that the serpent didn’t start with some small talk like, “Ah, this garden is beautiful, isn’t it?”

        God’s great gift of Faith. Head and heart must be in balance for Faith to flourish. Too much head cut off from the heart doesn’t work, no matter the extent of the credentials. I’d like to say that too much heart is not a bad thing, but we definitely need the head so we don’t accidentally walk right over a cliff. I’ve done that on occasion too.

        Liked by 6 people

        2. Yes. We were given the gift of intellect so we could ponder all this and with informed reason, make the right choice for God. We then give our heart, but that last step is an act of faith to overcome fear. The evil one wants us to live in fear (be afraid) of God like he wants to crush us. Many folks hurting and afraid. The worse of the bunch make war with God which I do not comprehend. This is beyond logic.

          Liked by 2 people

          1. Dear Doug,
            I was one of those who warred with God. I grew up in an abusive alcoholic home. It took decades to separate my experience with my own dad and God. I still have a difficult time with the scripture that goes like, what father would give their child a serpent….Mine would.

            Liked by 2 people

            1. And that is why Mary was given to us HandtoPlow. God knew the hurt and evil the devil one would do and to get us to blame it on God. The gentleness and nurturing of Mary allows many woman abused by men to bridge that hurt and begin to heal and trust again. She is a great gift to the church.

              Liked by 3 people

    4. I had an image in my head about what the Holy Land would look like before I went on pilgrimage in Feb 2018. I thought of it as arid, brown, dusty, hot and lifeless. Tarantulas and cactus if you know what I mean. A hard land.

      When I got there I was shocked to see the Galilee region green and wet and beautiful. Peaceful and serene. A veritable land of milk and honey. It was cool and rainy. They tell me it all burns off in the late Spring and Summer and gets a lot browner during the hot season.

      Our bus load of tourists was quite grumpy as it was raining pretty hard the first day of our tour. Our tour guide said something I won’t soon forget. He said he knew we were all grumpy and praying the rain would go away and we would have a comfortable day touring Nazareth and Cana.

      He asked us to please not pray for the rain to stop: “The rain is a blessing. We need the rain. Without the rain we cannot live.”

      Seems that the mountains absorb the rain and creates subterranean pools and springs. It brings life to the valleys and deserts. They were in drought conditions up until that point and needed the rain and all the people around were quite happy to see it except for us tourists/pilgrims.

      Now every time it rains I am reminded of his words. We have had a rainy, rainy fall here in the Mid-Atlantic region and all through the South. It has caused a lot of suffering and damage. Real suffering. Real damage. Somehow it seems an essential part of the cycle of life. Rain, suffering, renewal of life.

      Learning to see through the rain to the greening beyond and because is a gift I think.

      Liked by 5 people

      2. As you can well imagine, ST Ed, it’s the same in this desert. Boggles the mind that there are always some folks complaining when it rains. Really? Good gosh, it’s the desert, folks. Rain is life indeed. And if we read between the lines in your prose, there it is… that reminder for Catholics/Christians to be the first ones to lead with gratitude in all circumstances. Now you’ve got me contemplating Christ’s reaction to the elements… least from what I can glean for Scripture. Nope, no complaining from Jesus about the weather of course. Always thanks. And that calming of the storm episode suddenly shows some new facets. I’ve also been contemplating “sleep/sleeping” from scripture lately.

        Liked by 5 people

    6. Thanks, MP.
      So much for me to ponder with your words: “I think we have peace in proportion to how much we love.”…..and….”God is simple. Just love Him back”.

      Liked by 3 people

  27. Yes my thanks to St. Jude but more so to Jesus. Yesterday upon entering the sanctuary before mass I offered our Lord my assistance to him, his people and my family. After mass began a man wobbled in and sat in the first pew and began lip syncing and animating the Priest. I was assisting the Priest on the altar and had a good vantage point to observe all activities. I could see a lot of anxiety on the faces of our parishioners and began seeking our Lord’s guidance. He made it clear that when I looked at the man I saw the Lord in need. Before serving Communion, the Priest walked up to the man and gave him a blessing. The man asked for another blessing and them came forward for Communion. By then I had relocated next to the man. He answered yes when asked if he was a Catholic and was served the Body and Precious Blood of Jesus. I escorted him back to the pew with my arm around him and then walked out of the sanctuary with him. I’ve never seen a person so grateful to receive Communion as that man. He knew he had Jesus in his body. The man was not intoxicated and indicated he lived nearby. He then wobbled off praising God with his arms raised in praise. Just before he left I asked him if he was Catholic and he said he was a Baptist. I won’t second guess why our Lord allowed this. I’m just grateful to have participated.

    Liked by 6 people

  28. Powers & Principalities doing their evil work. In some Global Left circles Orthodox Christians & Jews have already been labeled as “Haters” and unworthy of Civil Rights that should only be bestowed upon those who endorse The Agenda. I’m guessing Lifesite is a test case to see how much Christian Persecution can, at present, be gotten away with?
    Pray for a Red Wave in seven days!!

    Christian News Site ‘LifeSite’ Blacklisted by Web Host

    https://www.breitbart.com/tech/2018/10/29/christian-news-site-lifesite-blackhosted-by-web-host/

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

    Liked by 7 people

    2. CD, this happened to GAB, a free speech platform, over the weekend too.

      https://gab.ai/home

      This appears to be a new tactic from the dying left to silence us, and was predicted to happen just before the elections. I think it is too little to late on their part. It was inconceivable to be that we (US citizens) could/would ever find ourselves so blatantly and swiftly handing away our freedoms to tyrants in the 21st century.

      These things must come. This too shall pass. It is time to stand up and be counted among the saints!

      ❤

      Liked by 8 people

    3. Just saw today on WND.com that a new conservative social-media site was launched called USA.Life.
      An answer for censored christian sites.

      Liked by 3 people

  29. Great post Charlie, and all of the comments. Jesus IS our focus, and THANK YOU St. Jude for helping the last week with what I consider a miraculous intercession! I predominately prayed the novena for the intention of our nation, however, given that my 70yr old father and two brothers were in Clearwater Natl Forest, Idaho on horseback on the sides of mountains, you can imagine I may have also asked for some intercession for our lives! LOL…. we are all back safely and I have to say that though I was not able to directly able to evangelize to the one of my brothers, however my youngest brother and I were able to show him how important our daily Rosary and prayers were to us (since we prayed on horseback and while hunting in front of him! hee hee – he was a captive audience). The brother who we wanted to evangelize seemed to cautiously watch instead of his usual vocal opposition to the Catholic faith. So I am praying that can maybe be a small mustard seed planted in his life?? We were also able to have a decent conversation with our Morman guide and outfitters, where I feel we explained much of how and why we prayed the Rosary to them…. again, it may amount to nothing, but you never know!

    Here is a pic of one of God’s sunsets we enjoyed….

    God bless,
    Bill

    Liked by 7 people

    1. Beautiful pic, Bill, and such great news about your evangelizing through example. It’s often a more potent way given certain circumstances. I remember the time our school (public) crossing guard showed up in my parish and I greeted her with word that I had no idea she was Catholic. Turns out something I had said at the end of the day in a casual conversation among the school’s employees had captured her heart, she said, so that she knew she needed to make a return. Praying, Bill, that the Holy Spirit continues to use what you brought to your brother, the very life of Christ within you, as you spent that precious time together as guys in the mountains having fun and acknowledging God in the midst of it. Makes me think of how you were following Our Lady of Medjugorje’s example. She often says, “My children, I invite you.”

      I’m just sorry to have been sick when you were passing through. Looking forward to making that connection next time. You had mentioned it was a first extended time away from your wife and kids. I’ll bet y’all were excited to reunite. Welcome back to the site!

      Liked by 7 people

      1. Ha, yes! My wife was especially happy upon my return! I am surprised she didn’t leave right then and take her own vacation! LOL. I had so much time to reflect (since waiting for an animal who doesn’t want to be hunted often avoids you!), and replayed every moment of my, my wife’s, and our kids’ lives (all blessings) through my head while being absolutely stunned at the beauty and silence… I didn’t realize that much of my trip would be spent in so much silent solitude in God’s amazing creation! I really enjoyed Montana as well, and yes, we’ll need to cross paths sometime. I hope you are feeling much better Beckita! Thanks again for the prayers!

        Liked by 6 people

        1. On my pilgrimage, while walking through the mountains of Los Padres National Forest in southern California, I went almost an entire week where the only sounds I heard were the animals, the wind, creeks running, and gravel rolling down the embankments at night. It was utterly awe-inspiring and facilitated one of the most profound senses of worship I have ever felt.

          Liked by 7 people

        2. Awesomeness, Bill. When Father and I drive the miles to ministry throughout the diocese, after our rosaries and visiting, invariably, even as we simply sit in the car, we move in silence at the wonders around us. I am doing much better, yet, still trying to completely shake it. Thanks for the well wishing. Today, I started my roasted garlic therapy!

          Liked by 6 people

  30. John Allen, from his piece out today with full article found here.

    “It’s commonly said among people who’ve been around the block on the abuse scandals that it’s just a question of time until they erupt elsewhere. Some believe Italy will be the next shoe to drop, some Poland, some the Philippines, some a major African nation such as Nigeria, and others propose yet more possibilities. The common term is the assumption that the clock is ticking, because both human nature and ecclesiastical culture are pretty much the same everywhere.

    That was the spirit of Archbishop Peter Comensoli of Melbourne, Australia, who told Crux on Sunday the final result illustrates that the anti-abuse effort remains, globally speaking, a work in progress.

    “Certain parts of the Church in the world are [just] coming to understand what it means to take a position of zero tolerance, and the synod is a reflection of the Church throughout the world,” he said.

    Yet many prelates from outside the West – and, to be frank, even some within it – just don’t buy that. They think “the crisis,” in the sense of media pressure, lawsuits, public protest and so on, is a product of certain cultures, and devoting too much global time and energy to it is ill-advised. Many also resent the way the scandals obscure other, more positive narratives about the Church.

    That may not quite add up to “denial,” but it is a clear contrast in one’s sense of priorities and urgency, and in some ways it’s as relevant in Church life in 2018 as it was in 2002, when the abuse crisis first erupted in the United States and the “zero tolerance” policy was born.

    Perhaps another verdict on the 2018 synod, therefore is this: Maybe the only thing that’ll ever really change the calculus is if the reformers are right, and the crisis is destined to blow up one place after another where it hasn’t yet hit.

    Otherwise, it’s tough to imagine, in the wake of watching 260 bishops from around the world blink on “zero tolerance,” what else might do the trick.”

    Liked by 5 people

  33. The posts from SweetWaterHaven are marvelously beautiful and inspiring. I for one am someone who loves the rain when it comes even if it is 40 degrees. I find it soothing if a little sad. My faith is in the rising of the sun after the storm and the knowledge that all things work for good for those who believe.

    Liked by 9 people

  34. My thoughts have been in an uneasy spot tonight.

    The enemy (the political left) have been upping their game to scare away all conservative support and label all who oppose Liberals as fascists, evil, and predudiced hate mongers; they always did, but the social volume of their accusations is much louder now, and they are starting campaigns.

    Sooner or later a major stand is going to have to be made, we or whoever is going to confront those leftists with the truth, that they are evil ones because they work Satan and just because the devil is playing Liberal – equal rights activist, it doesn’t make him nor those who support his causes morally good. People will eventually need to be confronted with the reality that support for the left is support for the devil, and there’s nothing that the Liberal’s are offerring (welfare nor benefits) that makes an eternity in Hell worth it.

    Maybe sharing this will ease my burdened mind…

    Liked by 7 people

    1. It’s true, Al, that a major confrontation is at the door. There’s just no compromise on the culture of life issues. Praying for you, especially for peace of mind. If you can, I think it’s good to unplug from the news and contemplate God’s Goodness which remains all around us… such as in people, in His creation, in good news events, and in His Eucharistic Presence. It’s the adoration time which restores my sanity. Simply allowing Him to love me and then giving Him the weariness of our current scene so He can restore my spirit to equilibrium is such refreshment for me.

      Liked by 7 people

      1. Beckita, you have spoken true. It is in the calm of His Eucharistic Presence, in Adoration, in our letting go of self and just basking in His Love that tranquility come…, at least until I start looking at the world again. [sigh] Lately I keep singing, even at night, Paul Wilbur’s “For Your Name Is Holy”. It is kind of like being gently rocked in the arms of the one you love.
        I believe that it is in true Eucharistic Adoration that we, the Church, will be brought back to life in God. As I told my Bishop, we have taken our eyes off Jesus. He agreed. [You are right on , Charlie]

        Liked by 5 people

        1. St Therese said that when she lost her peace, she would pray the Our Father or Hail Mary real slow and her peace would return. Keep your eye on Jesus moments!

          Liked by 6 people

          1. Amen! And in the poetic encouragement of another Therese, another doctor of the Church, St. Teresa of Avila:

            Let nothing disturb you,
            Let nothing frighten you,
            All things pass away:
            God never changes.
            Patience obtains all things.
            He who has God
            Finds he lacks nothing;
            God alone suffices.

            – Teresa of Jesus

            Liked by 4 people

        2. Beautiful, Judith. Your words reflect the vision of St. John Bosco… The Eucharist… and the Rosary will carry us through the Storm to the shores of Rescue. Blessed be God forever! Ave Maria eternally!

          Liked by 4 people

        3. I often find myself quietly chanting either, “Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true…” or a truncated version of, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord. He has done great things for me. And holy, holy, holy is his name.” Both of these are very soothing for me.

          Liked by 4 people

    3. Al, I totally get where you’re coming from, because I’ve been there (and am still there on occasion). When I start to stress out, I try to remember to repeat “Jesus, I trust in You” over and over again in my head, until I calm down. And you know what? When I remember to pray that prayer, I always do calm down in fairly short order. Now if only I could always remember to pray as soon as I start to freak out….

      Praying for you, Al. 🙂

      Liked by 7 people

      1. What freaks me out isn’t so much the evil itself, but rather how most people go along with those evils and even support those evils.

        Most people People today don’t seem to have a moral compass.

        Liked by 6 people

        2. Boy, you got that right Al. Our generation was churched and even though we walked away, the moral foundation was there. The next generation is more or less not churched and thus, does not have a moral foundation. Add to that the normalization of sin as now taught in public schools along with the family break down and we have a toxic combination. Lord help us!

          Liked by 7 people

    5. Al, I’ve also been very uneasy as to where I wake up in the middle of the night with a deep, dark fear, but have no clue what it is. I have found that invoking the name of Jesus ends the night fear and the Rosary gives me peace whenever it is prayed. As I pray the Rosary, I am amazed at the mental and physical peace that overcomes me. Adoration time is the best for me too. Keeping you and all here in my prayers. God bless us all.

      Liked by 7 people

  35. A GoodOne for This Halloween Day in “These Days” where Satan and his evil demonic ‘disciples’ are present and numerous ….. everywhere!!! ;-( JESUS I TRUST IN YOU!!

    HeartLight Daily Verse – 31 October

    1 Peter 5:8-9
    Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

    Thoughts on today’s verse:

    Satan is real. He and his power are intended to harm. But rather than spending our time worrying about him, let’s resist him when we are tempted and focus on Jesus. He’s the one who won the big showdown at Calvary, triumphing over Satan. He took Satan’s greatest tool and disarmed it. Now we can resist and Satan will flee.

    Prayer:

    Thank you, Almighty God, for sending Jesus to break Satan’s stranglehold over us. Through the Savior’s death you have assured me that mine won’t be the end of our relationship, but the beginning of life with you. Today, however, I ask that you help me especially resist Satan’s power over my life in the following ways………….. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.
    Visit heartlight.org for more

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

    Liked by 8 people

    1. Amazing verse 1 Peter. I have been thinking these days on the meaning of walking with Christ. I’ve been thinking of where it was Christ walked to. Gonna require a lot of courage.

      Liked by 5 people

  36. I’d like to think that Voris is getting carried away with his rhetoric and perhaps a bit loose on his facts …. but I can’t as I believe he is essentially correct in his presentation!
    The Usual Suspects in Our Church … (as in Our USA) …. are hoping that The Faithful (& The Deplorables) will tire of the fight, be distracted by the upcoming Holidays and come the New Year all will be as “Before”. Let Us insure, through Prayers & Action (Voting Booth & Peaceful Demonstrations) that The Usual Suspects find themselves sadly disappointed and worse!!
    JESUS I TRUST IN YOU!

    A MASSIVE INSULT TO THE FAITHFUL
    Could a bigger insult be leveled against the faithful?

    https://www.churchmilitant.com/video/episode/vortex-a-massive-insult-to-the-faithful?mc_cid=236c33f412&mc_eid=2a0b6c7ef6

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Well, Crew Dog, I’m one who sees Michael Voris as, too often, OTT in his calling out the sins of the shepherds. Oh, the shepherds have sinned terribly. But here’s the thing, so have I. Certainly we need to be prayerful and active participants in holding them to account. I’m just so much more drawn to the style of Joseph Sciambra. He names the problems and those who are promoting the anti-Church activities and he, then, gives the contact information for people to take that next right step of action to write or call those with authority to set things right.

      Actually, I think it’s not so much an insult to the faithful to call for security at the Bishops’ meetings. Rather, I think it’s an action of sanity and safety given how intensely emotional and on edge are our Church and society in these times.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Well Beckita,

        I’m a big sinner too but I ain’t a Priest, Bishop or Cardinal. I have not been given the Responsibility or Perks that go with the title and responsibility of the above. There is a BIG difference in sinning and Dereliction of Duty. Those who have been derelict (& worse) MUST be held accountable and canned … along with all their ‘disciples’ and enablers! Otherwise!!! The Great Cleansing can not occur.

        GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

        Liked by 3 people

        1. Yes, CD. That Our Lady has repeatedly asked us to pray for her priests was not just because she likes ’em better than the rest of her children. The flock is deeply affected by their shepherd’s sins. It’s a discussion that comes up frequently in this house. That said, our sins – both omission and commission – contributed to the situation in which we find ourselves in the Church and societies all over the world. There is a dynamism of mutual effect when a priest, bishop or cardinal has a holy flock… and vice versa. St. John Vianney is an example of this point. When he came to Ars, he found a flock in bad shape so he set to praying assiduously for them as well as fasting and offering penances for them. It was through this means that his fiery preaching touched their hearts. And I have seen priests turn around via such a response from their flock. Pope St. John XXIII is to have said, “We’re saved – or lost – in bunches, like grapes.”

          Not at all denying that accountability must be enforced. I do advocate for a reasoned, firm and fair approach. It is very easy to cross over into vindictive, revengeful attitudes without maintaining a cool head when weighing and administrating justice.

          Liked by 3 people

          1. Amen, Beckita!

            Recently it has been my joy to have joined a small new ministry of devout and mighty women in Church for Adoration every Thursday at 2pm.

            “We commend to God our Holy Church, Bishops, Priests, Seminarians, Missionaries, Religious and Laymen for the Blessings of the fire of His Love, unity in heart and mind, strength, wisdom and holiness to continue to accompanying our dear Jesus in the restoration of his Kingdom for the forgiveness of our sins, and for His Will to take its place of triumph with fullness in the human family as it is in Heaven for the greater glory of God.”

            The Holy Hour includes A Crusade of Prayer and Reparation, the Chaplet for our Deceased Priests in Purgatory, the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. The Holy Hour is crowned with the singing of “Immaculate Mary” to our Holy Mother.

            May our Lord’s Divine Assistance flow abundantly upon our souls and we forge ahead. ❤

            Liked by 3 people

          2. I too saw a rather harsh priest soften over time in my own parish.
            In the 80’s we had a very Marion pastor who brought the Blue Army, Fr Gobbi, a Maryopolis and many great devotions to our church. But the enemies in our diocese moved in, took him out and installed an anti-all things Marian pastor into our church (which is named Our Lady of Fatima)!
            It took years but this hardened priest softend up a lot over the decades here. He never returned any of the devotions, but he stopped acting like a Marian jailer.
            One other point I must make about CD’s concern over the “greater sins” of our prelates.
            In the book The City of God by Mary of Agreda she tells that when Our Lord sweat blood in the garden of Gethsemane it was because He was shown the lowest level of Hell where His special ones (prelates, nuns, etc) would go and that He asked the Father that “this cup” (the lower chamber) would pass if possible. It was not. So according to this Mystic, the Father renders a greater punishment upon His chosen ones if they end up in Hell. No surprise, to who is given much, much is expected and the greater the loss/responsibility if they fail.
            Now you know why it is so I imperative that we pray for them!

            Liked by 4 people

    2. I love being called a sheep. Growing up on a farm and raising sheep I know they are some of the dumbest animals on the farm. They need tending all of the time. Thank God I/we are sheep. He will take care of me/us.

      After reading that article, I have the image of a sheep praying a rosary. How funny. Nothing could be as vulnerable. The wolves in sheep’s clothing afraid of us. (They are really afraid of righteous judgement.)

      Jesus I trust you, Jesus I trust you, Jesus I trust. All glory to God.

      Liked by 3 people

    2. I am beginning to believe that when we are confronted with mind-blowing evil that attacks our Faith, that we freeze in fear, AND WE DO NOTHING. I wonder about some of our bishops

      Liked by 2 people

      1. I do expect to see graces pour out upon us, as we continue to acknowledge God, in the various crises to, personally, come into each of our lives. I also hope to hear weeping, the weeping of repentance and a change of heart, coming from the shepherds when Christ visits each of us, revealing where our problems lie… a time of personal revelation where we meet ourselves in Christ’s Light without justification or minimizing, just the plain truth of what our actions and lack of actions have wrought. May the bishops be humble; may WE be humble; may all God’s people be humble, ready to receive the LOVE that never deserted us and the MERCY that has always been there, waiting for us to seek HIM. This will be the JOY which emerges from the suffering.

        Liked by 4 people

    3. And note that when the lady is asked if she is afraid of her Bishop she has broke silence on she says she will not have to answer to her Bishop but to God. As Charlie has reminded us we are auditioning only for God to be pleased with us.

      Liked by 3 people

  38. A bit of a side note, when we started the 54 day novena for our country, I had contacted the White House to let them know we were praying for them. I also asked Melania to pray the 54 day novena. I did this via email. I received a snail mail letter yesterday from her saying they appreciate our prayers and they know it is holding them up! Isn’t that cool!

    Liked by 4 people

      1. Mick and HTTP, our First Lady has invited the Dominican Sisters of Mary Mother of the Eucharist to sing at the National Christmas Tree-lighting Ceremony. Those sisters are holy energy personified!

        Liked by 3 people

        1. That’s amazing, Beckita! The Dominican Sisters of Mary Mother of the Eucharist are an incredible order. Their motherhouse is about an hour from our house, and we have visited there a few times. Their annual postulant class averages something like 13 or 14; and the last I knew, the average age of the Sisters was 30. This order will be a force in the Church for years to come.

          Here’s a nice article about them, from about a year ago:

          https://cruxnow.com/faith/2017/10/29/tis-season-dominican-sisters-climb-charts-new-christmas-album/

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          1. Yes, Mick. I knew they were Michigan-based as I have prayed for them and watched them grow with an abundance of young vocations. Their energy and love of the Lord abounds and they are undaunted in engaging the culture. Not an Oprah watcher, but when someone told me they were actually going to be featured on her program in 2010, I had to watch. Love their music and, sometimes, play their setting of the Te Deum when I’m praying the Office of Readings in the Divine Office. Here’s the Oprah clip:

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              1. Ha! I’m not an Oprah watcher either, Beckita; but when I heard some time ago that they’d been on her show, I got on YouTube to watch some of it. It’s fun watching how floored Oprah is by it all.

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Published by charliej373

Charlie Johnston is a former newspaper editor, radio talk show host and political consultant. From Feb. 11, 2011 to Aug. 21, 2012, he walked 3,200 miles across the country, sleeping in the woods, meeting people and praying as he went. He writes on cultural, global and political issues from an orthodox Catholic perspective. He emphasizes that we find God most surely through the ordinary, doing the little things we should with faith and fidelity. His constant refrain is that, to live real joy, we must acknowledge God, take the next right step, and be a sign of hope to those around us. He lives in the Archdiocese of Denver in the United States.