Angels, Wonders, and Miracles of Faith

Healing Mass Celebration Scheduled for 2012 at World Apostolate of Fatima, USA

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:32:00 +0000

Fr. Paul Ruge - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The World Apostolate of Fatima, USA, will celebrate a Healing Mass every third Sunday from May to December 2012 with Fr. Paul Ruge. The Mass will begin with Divine Mercy Prayer at 3:00 PM in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick will follow after the Homily.

The National Blue Army Shrine is located in Warren County on the grounds of the World Apostolate of Fatima at 674 Mountain View Road, (Asbury) Washington, New Jersey.

I would suggest calling the Catholic shrine at (908) 689-1700 for any changes or updates for the Healing Mass schedule.

Blessed Sacrament Chapel - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

If you have a medical condition, I would suggest attending the Healing Mass. If you cannot attend, consider calling or visiting your local church and request a copy of their annual mass schedule. Most Catholic churches will have at least one Healing Mass during the calender year which includes the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.

Other Christian denominations hold various healing services as well. Check with the local church pastor.

Holy scripture encourages those who are ill to receive the Anointing of the Sick. So what does scripture say about God's healing grace?

Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. -James 5:14-15

Please consider joining Fr. Paul Ruge as he celebrates the Healing Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

Healing Mass Schedule

May 20, 2012

June 17, 2012

July 15, 2012

August 19, 2012

September 16, 2012

October 21, 2012

November 18, 2012

December 16, 2012

Additionally, the shrine holds daily Mass at 12:00 Noon in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

Please consider visiting http://www.christian-miracles.com/ and reading Father Paul Ruge's interview with Fr. Hubert Schiffer. Father Schiffer miraculously survived the atomic explosion on August 6, 1945 at Hiroshima, Japan. To read the story and to view a documentary trailer, please visit the following link: Rosary Miracle at Hiroshima

Our Lady of Medjugorje's Monthly Message to Marija Pavlovic

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:12:00 +0000

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

Our Lady's Message of January 25, 2012 to Marija Pavlovic:

"Dear children! With joy, also today I call you to open your hearts and to listen to my call. Anew, I desire to draw you closer to my Immaculate Heart, where you will find refuge and peace. Open yourselves to prayer, until it becomes a joy for you. Through prayer, the Most High will give you an abundance of grace and you will become my extended hands in this restless world which longs for peace. Little children, with your lives witness faith and pray that faith may grow day by day in your hearts. I am with you. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Mary, Mother of Peace by Stephen B Whatley

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:45:00 +0000

Mary, Mother of Peace by Stephen B. Whatley

Mary, Mother of Peace - 2012 by Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

A new work of art created on the first day of 2012: World Day of Peace.

In September 2011, the art and faith of Stephen B. Whatley was the subject of a major feature and interview in Catholic Life magazine.

For anyone who was unable to obtain a copy, the full feature is now available to read online at:
www.christian-miracles.com/artofstephenbwhatley.htm

Mary Mother of Peace - January 1, 2012 by Stephen B. Whatley
Charcoal on paper, 23.4 x 16.5in/ 59 x 42cm

Dr. Alveda King Calls Martin Luther King, Jr. a “Pro-Life Social Conservative”

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:40:00 +0000

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Dr. Alveda King Calls Martin Luther King, Jr. a “Pro-Life Social Conservative” | Fox News Insider

The following excerpt is from FoxNewsInsider.com:

As we remember the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., his niece, Dr. Alveda King, tells Peter Johnson, Jr. that she believes her uncle would have been considered a pro-life social conservative if he were alive today.

Earlier on Fox and Friends, King discussed her uncle’s beliefs and said that since MLK was someone who gave his life to all humanity, “he would really support the best quality of life, and that is conception until natural death.”

Read more: MJK

Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American woman to soon become a saint

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 00:10:00 +0000

Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American woman to become a blessed, soon a saint

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

The first canonization of a Native American woman has been approved. Her name is Kateri Tekakwitha, but she's also known as “Lily of the Mohawks” and the patroness of American Indians. Last December, Benedict XVI cleared the way for her canonization, after a miracle was attributed to her.

The case deals with a young boy from Washington State, who was hospitalized for several months, after being diagnosed with a flesh eating disease. His case was serious, until his parish priest, asked his family and their parish to pray for the intercession of Kateri. Soon after, the family says, the boy began to heal without any medical explanation.

Read more: Kateri Tekakwitha

Join in Prayer for God's Spiritual Blessings at St. Mary's Church on January 19, 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 04:14:00 +0000

St. Mary's Catholic Church, Denville, NJ
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

All are Welcome to Join in Prayer for God's Spiritual Blessings at St. Mary's Church on January 19, 2012

Please consider visiting S t. Mary's Catholic Church for Mass and prayer services.

St. Mary's holds a monthly service for prayer with Fr. Richard Tartaglia including special prayer intentions which are submitted through the website of www.Christian-Miracles.com.

Previous services have included prayer for Christian Unity. However, prayers for world peace are always included.

The next prayer service is scheduled for Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 7:30 PM (EST). The prayer service is held every third Thursday of each month with a new theme. January will focus on Life and the Unborn.

St. Mary's Church is located on 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, New Jersey.

There is great power through the Holy Spirit when people join together in agreement while praying for God’s help and intervention. However, if you cannot attend, you can still join in with your own special prayer intentions with St. Mary's Church between the hours of 7:30-8:00 PM on January 19th.

Prayer requests can posted directly on www.Christian-Miracles.com at the following link:
http://www.christian-miracles.com/apps/prayers/

May Our Lord have mercy and bless your prayer requests with divine favor.

Monthly Prayer Schedule with Related Topics for 2012

Pray for Life - Thursday, January 19 at 7:30 P.M.

Candlemas and Lent - Thursday, February 16 at 7:30 P.M.

Lent and Penance - Thursday, March 15 at 7:30 P.M.

Easter and Resurrection - Thursday, April 19 at 7:30 P.M.

No evening prayer service in May

John the Babtist - Thursday, June 21 at 7:30 P.M.

(Additional dates will be added when available.)

St. Mary's Weekly Mass Schedule

Sunday: 7:00, 8:30, 10:00, and 11:30 AM

Saturday: 5:00 PM

Weekdays: 8:00 AM and 12:05 PM - (Except June ~ Labor Day - No 12:05 PM)

First Fridays: 8:00 AM, 12:05 PM, 8:00 PM - (Except June ~ Labor Day - No 12:05 PM)

Holy Days: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 12:00 noon, 7:00 PM

Eve of Holy Days: 5:00 PM

Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 04:27:00 +0000

September 2011 issue of Catholic Life

Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist

Commentary by Loci B. Lenar

With permission of Stephen B. Whatley and Catholic Life magazine, we are reprinting a feature article about this talented contemporary artist on www.Christian-Miracles.com.

With the start of 2012, this story is making its public debut for the very first time on the internet. The feature first appeared in the September 2011 issue of Catholic Life, published in England, UK. Stephen is also a resident of London.

The Immaculate Heart of Mary by Stephen B. Whatley

Painting in bold and colorful abstract strokes, this Expressionist artist is gaining international recognition with collectors, especially for his Christian Tributes.

"My work springs from my heart and soul and I give credit to God. I thank God in particular for the blessing of sight..." -Stephen B. Whatley

Stephen B. Whatley

Baptized as an Anglican, Stephen B. Whatley was drawn to the Catholic Church by friends that he met at school and also was influenced through liturgy of the faith by attending Mass. The life of the saints have left a profound impression on Stephen while his portraits of Jesus and the Blessed Mother are a reflection of his strong Christian faith. All of this combined with prayer has led him to be a practicing Catholic.

In light of the fact that many Anglicans are joining the Catholic Church today, I believe this artists' spiritual journey of faith is one of many signs of God's plan in unifying Christianity.

Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist is a heartfelt and amazing front page feature in Catholic Life magazine written by Tony Galcius.

This feature story can be read on www.Christian-Miracles.com at the following link: Stephen B. Whatley the Praying Artist

To visitors of www.Christian-Miracles.com, Stephen's artwork appears on several pages with devotional prayers, including The Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta: A Personal Portrait - by Fr. Leo Maasburg

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:31:00 +0000

Mother Teresa of Calcutta: A Personal Portrait - by Fr. Leo Maasburg

The following excerpt is from Igantius.com:

Mother Teresa's life sounds like a legend. The Albanian girl who entered an Irish order to go to India as a missionary and became an "Angel of the Poor" for countless people. She was greatly revered by Christians as well as Muslims, Hindus and unbelievers, as she brought the message of Christian love for one's neighbor from the slums of Calcutta to the whole world.

Fr. Leo Maasburg was there as her close companion for many years, traveling with her throughout the world and was witness to countless miracles and incredible little-known occurrences. In this personal portrait of the beloved nun (Mother Teresa of Calcutta: A Personal Portrait), he presents fifty amazing stories about her that most people have never heard, wonderful and delightful stories about miracles, small and great, that he was privileged to experience at Mother Teresa's side. Stories of how, without a penny to her name, she started an orphanage in Spain, and at the same time saved a declining railroad company from ruin, and so many more.

Read more: Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Illuminating Angels: Messenger Angels

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 23:39:00 +0000

Illuminating Angels: Messenger Angels - YouTube

Angels on Earth Videos can be watched on Guideposts.com.

Excerpt from Guideposts: Whether it’s carrying our prayers to heaven or delivering God’s Word to us, these divine beings always have something miraculous to share.

Signs of Christian Unity: More than 1,400 Anglicans want to join Catholic Church

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 02:43:00 +0000

More than 1,400 Anglicans want to join Catholic Church under "Personal Ordinariate" for U.S.

The video and following news excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

As of January 1, 2012, Anglicans in the United States, now have the option of joining the Catholic Church under a so called 'Personal Ordinariate.' The decision was established by the pope and the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith. This allows Anglicans to join the Church while still keeping part of their liturgical practices.

Its official name is “The Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter,” which will be led by former Episcopalian bishop Jeffrey Neil Steenson. It will be based in Houston, Texas.

Jeffrey Neil Steenson joined the Catholic Church in 2007 and was ordained a priest in 2009. The 59 year old priest is married and has three children. He will however, be part of the Conference of Catholic Bishops where he'll have voting power.

So far, over 100 Anglican priests have applied to become Catholic priests in this newly established ordinariate. Fourteen hundred Anglicans from 22 different parishes have also showed interest. By being part of this personal ordinariate, members will be in full communion with the Catholic Church.

This is only the second Ordinariate to be established by the Church. The first one was back in January of 2011, under the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham for England and Wales. Currently, other cases are also being considered for Australia and Canada.

Worldwide roughly 77 million people belong to the Anglican Church. The U.S. Episcopal Church has just under 2 million members.

Our Lady of Medjugorje's New Year Message to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 01:48:00 +0000

Church Window - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

January 2, 2012 Message from Our Lady to Mirjana Dragicevic-Soldo

"Dear children; As with motherly concern I look in your hearts, in them I see pain and suffering; I see a wounded past and an incessant search; I see my children who desire to be happy but do not know how. Open yourselves to the Father. That is the way to happiness, the way by which I desire to lead you. God the Father never leaves His children alone, especially not in pain and despair. When you comprehend and accept this, you will be happy. Your search will end. You will love and you will not be afraid. Your life will be hope and truth which is my Son. Thank you. I implore you, pray for those whom my Son has chosen. Do not judge because you will all be judged."

Fr. John Murray sees Miracle as he begins walking after being paralyzed

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 01:57:00 +0000

Fr. John Murray - Catholic Free Press Photo

Formerly paralyzed Maryland priest sees miracle as he begins walking › The Catholic Free Press

The following excerpt is from the CatholicFreePress.org

By George P. Matysek Jr.

EPHRATA, Pa. (CNS) — When Redemptorist Father John Murray bashed his head against a railing after tripping along a New Jersey boardwalk 15 months ago, the consequences were devastating.

The former pastor of St. Mary in Annapolis and St. Wenceslaus in Baltimore suffered a broken neck that left him instantly paralyzed from the chest down. Rushed to a hospital, he underwent emergency spinal cord surgery and later began rehabilitation at a prominent New Jersey institute.

Doctors had little encouragement for the once-active priest who was known across the East Coast for his preaching abilities. The chances he would ever walk again were virtually zero.

“When they said I’d never be able to move again, they took away all hope,” Father Murray told The Catholic Review, Baltimore archdiocesan newspaper.

But on Nov. 28, 2010, Father Murray did something everyone said would be impossible. While living and undergoing rehabilitation at Stella Maris in Timonium, Md., he moved his left leg ever so slightly, gently lifting his foot off the ground.

“I was ecstatic,” Father Murray recalled with a smile. “Here I was about six weeks after they told me in New Jersey I’d never move again and, lo and behold, I could move. Just the foot, but it kept going and going and going.”

Today, Father Murray is completely mobile. Using a walker, he is able to walk on his own at his new residence at St. Clement Mission House in Ephrata.

Father Murray sees only one explanation for his renewed gift of independence: An encounter with the miraculous.

When most people think of miracles, he said, they usually bring to mind instantaneous cures of a debilitating disease or terminal illness.

“We think of it as any exceptions to the laws of nature,” the priest explained. “In biblical times, what was called a miracle was anything that showed the power of God. What happened to me wasn’t instantaneous, but it certainly was miraculous.”

Reaching into his pocket, Father Murray pulled out a small object he carries with him at all times. Encased in a small locket, it houses a relic — a piece of bone — of Blessed Francis X. Seelos, a 19th-century Redemptorist priest under consideration for sainthood, who had been a rector of the same Annapolis parish Father Murray once led. The two also share a good sense of humor and a love for preaching.

“I think with those three common qualities, I had a little in with the guy,” said Father Murray, crediting Blessed Seelos for interceding on his behalf. “Ultimately, all prayers go to God. Seelos can’t give the grace, but he was the conduit for my prayers.”

Dr. Ernestine Wright, medical director of Stella Maris, was shocked by Father Murray’s recovery. She has seen other paraplegics regain limited use of their limbs — but nothing like Father Murray. A born-again Christian, Wright said she believes her patient experienced a touch of the miraculous.

Read more: Fr. John Murray

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 02:40:00 +0000

St. Pio of Pietrelcina by Stephen B. Whatley

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina by Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

A tribute to Padre Pio (Italy 1887-1968), proclaimed Saint Pio by John Paul II in 1982; spontaneously created in the evening of his feast Day, September 23, 2011.

Deeply holy from early life, the Italian priest's deep faith was distinguished by the miraculous marking of the stigmata, his claim that he could hear the hearts of those in Confession and the miracles of healing that have been experienced through prayers to him and his intercession before Christ.

"Pray, hope, don't worry" - Padre Pio

Charcoal and pastel on paper,
16.5 x 11.5in/42 x 30cm

Our Lady of Refuge

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 02:27:00 +0000

Our Lady of Refuge by Stephen B. Whatley

Our Lady of Refuge by Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

On December 8th, 2011, the Catholic Church celebrated The Immaculate Conception of Mary.

Divinely chosen to bear the Son of God, Mary is the first, the Queen of Saints and prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary are carried, through Her intercession to her Son Jesus Christ.

Increasingly I have felt a deepening attachment to Mother Mary; praying the Rosary every day. The Hail Mary is the simplest but so powerful of prayers. There are many devotions to Mary and many miraculous apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary - as mother of all, calling for peace - that have been witnessed through the ages, worldwide.

Recently as I climbed the hill home, praying to Mary for the strength to carry out a portrait commission the following day ( my buildup before any painting is one of deep prayer; during my accumulation of nervous and emotional energy). I felt my heart ask how Mary would like me to interpret her - my Christian tributes are a visual extension of my prayer - and I 'heard' "Our Lady of Refuge".

I was aware of this American devotion to Mary and I knew I had to make this drawing; partly inspired by a painting by Mexican artist Joseph de Paez; from 1750.

Our Lady of Refuge is Patroness of California and parts of Mexico,. The bishop of Baja, California proclaimed Her as Patron in 1843, exclaiming, "...with so great a patroness and protectress what can we not promise ourselves? What can be wanting and whom need we fear?"

In 1981 the California Catholic Conference of Bishops petitioned the Vatican to officially observe the Feast Day of Our Lady of Refuge on July 5th; which was approved in 1982.

May there be miraculous healings, new strength and prosperity through prayers to the Mother of God, on this special day; and thereafter.

"O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you"

Charcoal on paper
16.5 x 11.5in/42 x 30cm

More on 'Our Lady of Refuge' www.catholictradition.org/Mary/hope-popup1.htm

Holy Baby Jesus

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 02:18:00 +0000

Holy Baby Jesus by Stephen B. Whatley

Holy Baby Jesus by Stephen B Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

Painted on Christmas Day, 2011, a new tribute to the humble birth of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, in Bethlehem, over 2000 years ago.

Jesus' humility - and my love of birds - is symbolised by both the dove (the Holy Spirit) and the small garden bird resting on the hand of Jesus. I chose a Chickadee from North America; reflecting my affection for that land - for while Jesus was born in the Middle East; he came to bring peace to all creatures worldwide. Birds are often called 'Messengers of God'.

Jesus' love can be born in hearts, old and new; His love is eternal.

Peace at Christmas.

On December 26th, marks the Feast Day of St. Stephen, first martyr. He was stoned to death and prayed for forgiveness for his murderers. Forgiveness brings healing.

Oil on canvas
27 x 19.5in/70 x 50cm

Mary, Help of Christians

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 02:06:00 +0000


Mary, Help of Christians by Stephen B. Whatley

Mary, Help of Christians by Stephen B. Whatley | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

By Stephen B. Whatley

Christmas Blessings .....a drawing spontaneously made earlier this month, on December 4, 2011, taking its inspiration from one of my prayer cards, Mary, Help of Christians - a Catholic devotion that dates back to the 16th century; there is even mention of this title in 345 AD.

The drawing in charcoal and pastel evolved with deep prayer; and in praying for peace, happiness, healing & relief of those in sorrow at this time, I include the prayer that is on my prayer card.

Mary, Help of Christians

"Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians,
how sweet it is to come to your feet
imploring your perpetual help.
If earthly mothers cease not to remember their children,
how can you, the most loving of all mothers forget me?
Grant then to me, I implore you,
your perpetual help in all my necessities,
in every sorrow, and especially in all my temptations.
I ask for your unceasing help for all who are now suffering.
Help the weak, cure the sick, convert sinners.
Grant through your intercessions many vocations to the religious life.
Obtain for us, O Mary, Help of Christians,
that having invoked you on earth we may love and eternally thank you in heaven."

By St. John Bosco

Just as Christ was born 2000 years ago, I pray that His love and peace will be born in more and more hearts.

Happy Christmas!

Charcoal and pastel on paper
23.4 x 16.5in/59 x 42cm

St. Mary's Church [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:04:52 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Below the statue of Our Lady is a plaque with the following scripture: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you." (Jeremiah 1:5)

The statue of Our Lady can be seen outside the front window of Saint Mary's Church. The Catholic church is located on the corner of Myers Avenue and Route 46, Denville, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Arizona Student Feared to Be Brain Dead Wakes Up for Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:51:00 +0000

Ariz. Student Feared to Be Brain Dead Wakes Up for Christmas, Christian News

The following excerpt is from ChristianPost.com:

A 21-year-old student from Ariz., who was in a coma since a car crash over two months ago, woke up hours before doctors were to take him off life support and recovered enough to spend Christmas day with his family, including his mother who prayed.

Two days before he celebrated Christmas with his family at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, University of Arizona student Sam Schmid was the subject of a news conference at the hospital. He was able to walk with support and talk in brief sentences.

“Right now, I’m feeling all right ... except for the rehabilitation, I’m feeling pretty good,” The Associated Press quoted Schmid as saying.

An Oct. 19 car crash in Tucson had left Schmid, a business major and basketball coach at a school’s recreation center, with life-threatening injuries, including a brain aneurysm. He showed no responsive signs after Dr. Robert Spetzler performed surgery. Doctors planned to switch off the life-support machine, believing Schmid was brain dead. He was even being considered, unofficially, for organ donation.
Hospital staff began to prepare Schmid’s mother Susan Regan. But Spetzler decided to wait. At the 11th hour, the patient lifted up two fingers.

“It may not seem like a lot to you,” Spetzler said. “It’s an incredible loop to show brain ability. That was like fireworks going off.” After the sign of recovery, Dr. Christina Kwasnica began to administer his rehabilitation, beginning with making him practice sitting in a chair and gradually moving on to doing rehab three hours a day.

Regan said she knew she had to make some sort of decision regarding life support at some point, but she “kept praying.”

Read more: Christmas Miracle

A Christmas Wonderland Video [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 07:23:56 PST

Loci Lenar posted a video:

If you enjoy Christmas lights, you will not be disappointed if you take a detour and drive to 4 Debbie Place in Rockaway, NJ. The beautiful display of lights has become an annual event for the Rockaway homeowner. Visitors from all over northern New Jersey have come to see this colorful house which is decorated as a Christmas tree.

Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar

Billy Rivers: A Hardened Biker Switches Gears

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:33:00 +0000

Billy Rivers: A Hardened Biker Switches Gears - CBN TV - Video

Excerpt from CBN.com:

Biker Billy Rivers rode the motorcycle gang lifestyle all the way to prison. It was there that he began to question the love he saw from Christians.

After being released from prison, Billy says, “The Lord used second Corinthians 5:17 to let me know, ‘You’re not the same anymore. I own you. You are Mine. I have you under My wings. I love you. I forgive you of everything you’ve ever done. Old things are passed away and behold, all things are become new.’ And I said, ‘Lord, that’s me.’”

Billy lives a new life today. He still rides motorcycles, but no longer with a gang. He’s the chaplain for the New Orleans chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association.

“I have never experienced anything like this and I would never give it up for anything that I would ever experience. Jesus Christ is the Way the Truth and the Life, so being a servant today for Jesus Christ is the most wealthy thing - it’s the most blessed miracle -that I could ever imagine in my life. God’s awesome.”

Read more: Billy Rivers

Our Lady's Christmas Message to Marija Pavlovic

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:09:00 +0000

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

The Medjugorje Web - Apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Medjugorje

December 25, 2011 Monthly Message from Our Lady of Medjugorje to Marija Pavlovic

"Dear children! Also today, in my arms I am carrying my Son Jesus to you, for Him to give you His peace. Pray, little children, and witness so that in every heart, not human but God's peace may prevail, which no one can destroy. It is that peace in the heart which God gives to those whom He loves. By your baptism you are all, in a special way called and loved, therefore witness and pray that you may be my extended hands to this world which yearns for God and peace. Thank you for having responded to my call."

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:31:00 +0000

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government

will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Wishing all Visitors a Blessed Christmas!

May your Christmas Holiday be shared with friends and family as we gather together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. May your homes be filled with God's peace and love as we move into a new year. And, may peace reign upon our world through Our Lord's blessing.

Wishing all people of good will a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

The greeting card has a stained glass window which was photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photo Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar

www.christian-miracles.com

A Christmas Wonderland

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:19:00 +0000

A Christmas Wonderland - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

A Christmas Wonderland Video

A Christmas Wonderland | NowPublic.com Photos

By Loci B. Lenar

A Christmas Wonderland [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:30:14 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Prayer to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 02:21:00 +0000


The Immaculate Heart of Mary - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

O Immaculate Heart of Mary, Heavenly beauty and splendor of the Father, You are the most valued Heavenly treasure.

New Eve, immaculate in soul, spirit and body, Created of the godly seed by the Spirit of God, You are the spiritual Mother of mankind.

Pure Virgin, full of grace then and now, Your whole being was raised Heavenly in full glory, To be elevated above all the hosts within the Kingdom of God.

O Heavenly Mother, Queen of Heaven and earth, I recognize the glory of your highest title, The Immaculate Heart of Mary!

Loving Mother, dispenser of endless blessings, You who continuously intercedes on our behalf, Please present my need before your loving Son Jesus.

(In your own words, make your special request here. Do not just mention a word. Speak to the Immaculate Heart of Mary as you would speak to another person, begging your Heavenly Mother to plea to Jesus on your behalf, that you be granted this special request.)

O Immaculate Heart of Mary, I know that you are now presenting my need before Jesus, For you have never turned away those in dire need.

Mother dearest, I await your favorable answer, Submitting myself to the Divine will of the Lord, For all glories are His forever and ever. Amen

The above prayer can be found on Catholic websites.

The photograph of the stained glass window (detail) of the Immaculate Heart of Mary can be seen inside Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. The Catholic chapel is located on Mt. Bethel Road, Warren, New Jersey, USA.

More Devotional Prayers

Pope Advances Sainthood Causes of Marianne Cope and Kateri Tekakwitha

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:28:00 +0000


Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Parish, Sparta, NJ - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Pope advances sainthood causes of Marianne Cope, Kateri Tekakwitha

The following excerpt is from the Catholic News Service:

By Carol Glatz

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI advanced the sainthood causes of Blessed Marianne Cope of Molokai and Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha.

He also formally recognized the martyrdom of 64 victims of the Spanish Civil War and advanced the causes of 18 other men and women.

During a meeting Dec. 19 with Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation for Saints' Causes, the pope signed the decrees recognizing the miracles needed for the canonizations of Blesseds Marianne and Kateri.

Before a date is set for the canonization ceremonies, there must be an "ordinary public consistory," a formal ceremony opened and closed with prayer, during which cardinals present in Rome express their support for the pope's decision to create new saints.

Blessed Marianne, who worked as a teacher and hospital administrator in New York, spent the last 30 years of her life ministering on the Hawaiian island of Molokai to those with leprosy. She died on the island in 1918 at age 80 and was beatified in St. Peter's Basilica in 2005.

Blessed Kateri, known as the Lily of the Mohawks, was born to a Christian Algonquin mother and a Mohawk father in 1656 in upstate New York along the Hudson River. She was baptized by a Jesuit missionary in 1676 when she was 20, and she died in Canada four years later. In June 1980, she became the first Native American to be beatified.

Pope to canonize and name Hildegard von Bingen as Doctor of the Church

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:32:00 +0000

Pope to canonize and name Hildegard of Bingen as Doctor of the Church

Commentary by Loci B. Lenar

Director Margarethe von Trotta has captured the spiritual journey of Hildegard von Bingen in an upfront and poignant film about the 12th-century Benedictine nun and mystic, portrayed with a powerful performance by actress Barbara Sukowa. Read my review of the film at the following link: Vision: From the Life of Hildegard von Bingen

The following excerpt is from RomeReports.com:

Benedict XVI is set to appoint Hildegard of Bingen as a Doctor of the Church in October of 2012. She was a German Benedictine nun and was known for her visions and prophecies.

Hildegard of Bingen lived in the twelfth century. In addition to being a nun, she was a composer, philosopher, physicist and ecologist. A multi-talented woman, and a pioneer for many of these fields during the Middle Ages.

She came from a wealthy family and when she was only eight years old was sent to study in a monastery. She eventually decided to become a nun and later became an abbess.

Her visions and prophecies were recognized by the pope during that time, allowing her to speak about them publicly.

Since she has not been officially canonized, the ceremony is likely to take place before the pope names her as a Doctor of the Church in October.

Benedict XVI dedicated several of his general audiences to this German nun, saying that she “served the Church in an age in which it was wounded by the sins of priests and laity”.

Benedict XVI
September 8, 2010

“She brought a woman’s insight to the mysteries of the faith. In her many works she contemplated the mystic marriage between God and humanity accomplished in the Incarnation, as well as the spousal union of Christ and the Church. She also explored the vital relationship between God and creation, and our human calling to give glory to God by a life of holiness and virtue.”

So far there are 33 doctors of the Church, only 3 of whom are women. During World Youth Day, Benedict XVI also announced that the Spanish San Juan de Avila would also be appointed as a Doctor of the Church.

With this appointment, the Church recognizes a person's contribution to Catholic theology, which is still felt despite the passage of time.

A Prayer before Communion

noreply@blogger.com (Loci B. Lenar) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 04:00:00 +0000

Holy Communion - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Gloria.tv: A Prayer before Communion

Your Sacred Table

Divine Saviour,
we come to Your sacred table
to nourish ourselves,
not with bread but with Yourself,
true Bread of eternal life.
Help us daily to make a good and perfect meal
of this divine food.
Let us be continually refreshed
by the perfume of Your kindness and goodness.
May the Holy Spirit fill us with His Love.
Meanwhile, let us prepare a place
for this holy food by emptying our hearts.
Amen.

By Saint Francis de Sales

***

The stained glass window can be seen inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, New Jersey, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.Christian-Miracles.com

Sacred Heart of Jesus [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:26:35 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

The statue of Jesus can be seen inside Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. The Catholic chapel is located on Mount Bethel Road, Warren, New Jersey.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Catholic Chapel [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:15:25 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Our Lady of the Mount Chapel is located on Mount Bethel Road, Warren, New Jersey.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Sacred Grounds [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:32:13 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

The statue of Our Lady can be seen on the grounds of Our Lady of the Mount. The Catholic chapel is located on Mount Bethel Road, Warren, New Jersey.

Considering this photograph was taken on December 5th, the grass is still quite green in NJ!

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Holy Chalice [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:32:54 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

The stained glass window can be seen inside Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. The Catholic church is located on Mount Bethel Rd, Warren, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Our Lady of the Mount [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:21:02 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

This beautiful stained glass window of The Immaculate Heart of Mary can be seen inside above the entranceway to Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. The Catholic church is located on Mount Bethel Rd, Warren, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Immaculate Heart of Mary [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:51:03 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

This beautiful stained glass window (detail) of The Immaculate Heart of Mary can be seen inside Our Lady of the Mount Chapel. The Catholic church is located on Mount Bethel Rd, Warren, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Our Lady In Prayer [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:53:46 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Statue of Our Lady in prayer photographed on the premises of the Holy Face Monastery,1697 Route 3, Clifton, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Angel [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:21:51 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Statue of angel photographed on the premises of the Holy Face Monastery,1697 Route 3, Clifton, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Our Lady [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 17:42:29 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Mr. Loci B. Lenar [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 11:17:44 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Loci B. Lenar is the founder and administrator of www.christian-miracles.com. Since its inception in 2008, the homepage counter has logged over 510,000 visitors from around the world, including the USA, Canada, The United Kingdom (UK), India, Australia, Philippines, Germany, Brazil, United Arab Emirates and many others. (Note: Most recent update for the homepage counter is dated from 11-19-2011.)

Our website is built on the foundation of Christianity and the gospels, designed as a public ministry of faith and hope with spiritual news for the community.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
All Rights Reserved

Our Lady of the Angels [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:54:34 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Boy Jesus in the Temple [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:52:46 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.

Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the festival, according to the custom. After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”

“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he was saying to them.

Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
(Luke 2:39-52)

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.Christian-Miracles.com

The Resurrection of Jesus [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:39:22 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

Mary Crowned as Queen of Heaven [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 19:24:59 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Sacrament of Holy Communion [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:12:49 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:56:07 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord(as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord," and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons. Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:

“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. (Luke 2:22-33)

Stained glass window detail photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com

The Birth of Jesus [Flickr]

Loci Lenar — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:41:11 PST

Loci Lenar posted a photo:

Stained glass window detail of the Birth of Jesus. Photographed inside Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Verona, NJ.

Photograph Copyright 2011 Loci B. Lenar
www.christian-miracles.com