Catholic Dads Headquarters

The heavens declare the glory of God

2013-05-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

NASA and the Hubble Heritage Team (AURA/STSCI)

The heavens declare the glory of God: the firmament proclaims the works of his hands. Day unto day pours forth speech; night unto night whispers knowledge. - Psalms 19:1-3

Without faith in a Creator God, one who looks at His universe and declares it Good, how can you justify the belief that this universe is worth studying; indeed, that the universe even makes enough sense to be able to be studied? - Guy Consolmagno (as in Brother Astronomer: Adventures of a Vatican Scientist).

Modern scholars reject the old idea the Catholic Church was nothing but an opponent of the sciences. You would be considered almost beyond help, if you continue to argue that to a professional historian of science. - Thomas E. Woods

Significant updates in rational approaches to God have been achieved...in physics and cosmology. - Robert J. Spitzer

Resources

Education for Kids

The Institute for Advanced Physics

Print Media

Consolmagno, Guy

Falk, Dan

The Glad Scientist: A Vatican astronomer explains why science and religion are a match made in heaven

Feser, Edward

The Last Superstition: A Refutation of the New Atheism

Nelson, Thomas (Publisher)

The Heavens Proclaim His Glory: A spectacular View of Creation Through the Lens of the NASA Hubble Telescope

Purcell, Brendan M.

From Big Bang to Big Mystery: Human Origins in the Light of Creation and Evolution by [Priest] Brendan M. Purcell

Spitzer, Robert

Woods, Thomas

How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization

Research

Hubble
Magis Center of Reason and Faith - Explaining the harmony among Faith, Physics and Philosophy
NASA

Curiosity

NASA Science

Redbull Stratos

Supersonic Freefall - Red Bull Stratos CGI

Multimedia Video / Movies

Cosmic Origins: The Scientific Evidence for Creation
Google has created, an interactive, animated, three-dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy -- focusing on the known 100,000 stars nearest to our planet.

The Galileo Case (T. Woods)
Catholic Dads HQ: YouTube Channel / Science and Faith

Published Originally: 05.03.12
Updated: 05.21.2013

Tongues as of Fire

2013-05-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

"When the time for Pentecost was fulfilled,

they were all in one place together.

And suddenly there came from the sky

a noise like a strong driving wind,

and it filled the entire house in which they were.

Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire,

which parted and came to rest on each one of them.

And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit

and began to speak in different tongues,

as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim" (Acts 2:1-4).

Pope at Pentecost: Newness, Harmony and Mission

"Today we contemplate and re-live in the liturgy the outpouring of the Holy Spirit sent by the risen Christ upon his Church; an event of grace which filled the Upper Room in Jerusalem and then spread throughout the world..." (Read more)

Pope Francis calls Movements to Rome for Pentecost Vigil (Podcast)

Fr. Robert Barron: Pentecost Sermons

Logos Catholic Bible Software: The Path to Your Life On Fire

Daily Prayer for Your MP3 Player - Jesuit Media Initiatives

Pray-as-you-go is a proposal that calls on the inner life.
Get your personal listening gospel here: Android App

Recovery and Healing Through His Grace

2013-04-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Beloved:
Clothe yourselves with humility
in your dealings with one another, for:

God opposes the proud
but bestows favor on the humble.

So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that he may exalt you in due time.
Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.

Be sober and vigilant.
Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, steadfast in faith,
knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world
undergo the same sufferings.

The God of all grace
who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus
will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you
after you have suffered a little.
To him be dominion forever. Amen."
1 Peter 5:5B-14

Resources

Domestic Violence

Substance Abuse Treatment & Recovery

First Impressions: Exposure to Violence and a Child's Developing

Sometimes, What Children Don't Know (Love), Can Hurt Them

Crisis Management & Suicide Prevention

National Suicide Prevention Life Line - 800-273-TALK (8255)

International Suicide Prevention Help Lines

Fearful Yet Overjoyed

2013-04-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

"Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb,

fearful yet overjoyed and ran to announce the news to his disciples..."

Matthew 28:8-15

"This is beautiful, and this is the mission of...
mothers and women...to give witness to their children
and grandchildren that Christ is Risen!"

Pope Francis, Catholic News, 04.03.2013

"[F]eminine genius is centered on the redemptive act of Jesus Christ...

[For] a woman's relationship to the sacred keeps the Church and society on an even keel..."
Feminine Genius

Mary Jo Anderson, Catholic Journalist

"For our children to be 'godly offspring', they must orient their lives more

and more around Jesus as their King..." (p. 336).
Applying Our Faith in Service in Catholic Education: Homeward Bound

Kimberly Hahn, Mother, Apologist and Author &

Mary Hasson, Author and Former Attorney

The Resurrection of Jesus

"The essence of evangelization is to tell everybody,

'Jesus died for you'" (Audio, April 6, 1999).

Mother Angelica, Founder, EWTN - Global Catholic Network

"It is to women, that God has entrusted the human person.

Safe-guarding the human person is important for the culture of societies."

Association of Catholic Women

"[B]lessings...can be your if you call on Mary. She is waiting

for you with love of a mother's heart to lead you to her Son."

Call on Mary. She will lead you to Jesus

Marilyn Mathers, Founder CatholicWomen.com

"What I can do, you cannot. What you can do, I cannot.

But together, we can do something beautiful for God.

Mother Teresa Of Calcutta Center

Mother Teresa, Founder Missionaries of Calcutta, Awarded Nobel Peace Prize (1979)

"Everyone works in the service of man. We doctors work directly on man himself... We have opportunities to do good that the priest doesn't have. Our mission is not finished when medicines are no longer of use. We must bring the soul to God... Catholic doctors are so necessary!"

Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, Wife, Mother, Doctor, Prolife Witness

"I grew up atheist. As far back as I can remember,

it seemed simply obvious to me that neither God nor any kind of spiritual realm existed...

Research led me to the shocking conclusion that God exists,

and more shocking conclusion that

he became man in the form of Jesus of Nazareth."

Conversion Diary

Jennifer Fulwiler, Blogger for National Catholic Register

Women Overjoyed to Announce The News

Living His Life Abundantly

"The mission of the apostolate of Living His Life Abundantly International, Inc. is to mend the Christian Fabric of today's culture by proclaiming the

abundant life in Jesus Christ

through all manner of communications and media."

Johnnette S. Bendovic, Founder and President

"Pediatrician, mother and best-selling author of six books,

Dr. Meg Meeker is the country's leading authority

on parenting, teens and children's health."

Meg Meeker, M.D.

"[M]editate upoin the mysteries of Christ, following the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary

who was so singularly associated with the incarnation, passion and glorious

resurrection of the Son of God."

Teresa Tomeo

"[W]e celebrate all things Faith, Family

and Fun from a Catholic perspective."

Lisa M. Hendey, Founder CatholicMom.com

Jennifer Willits, Co-Host

The Catholics Next Door

"At Voice of Virtue, we're on a mission to help teens

defeat the temptations, rekindle what is good, true and

holy in their own lives, and live each day as

Jesus Christ wants them to."

Voice of Virtue

Barbara McGuigan, President and CEO

"The mission of Mary's Advocates is to strengthen marriage, to eliminate forced no-fault divorce, and to support those who have been unjustly abandoned by their spouse."

Marie (Bai) Macfarlane, Founder Mary's Advocates

Women Doctors of the Church

Women of God: Past and Present

(Amazon.com)

The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity
Dr. Meg Meeker

From the heart of a parent, uniting with Mary in prayer and reflecting on the thoughts she may

have had beginning with her son's infancy, then empathizing with her being confronted with Christ's Passion, is an incomprehensible experience. To imagine her as a mother witness her son after the Resurrection, is simply stunning, captivating, and points one to God's grace, comfort, power, and miracle available in the lives of us all. - Edward C.L.D., Catholic Dads HQ

Change the World Together
This Ordinary Life by Michele McGovern

Originally Posted 04.2011. Updated 04.03.2013.

Easter Sunday, the Resurrection of the Lord

2013-03-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

"Belief in Jesus, as God [is a] myth"

Bill O'Reilly v. Dave Silverman American Atheists (04.07.2012)

Atheists are called to "Make the decisions for the rest of your lives."

David Silverman, President, American Atheists (CNN, 03.18.2012)

"Even when we have everything, we have a deep awareness that points to the need for more."
The New Atheists, Fr. R. Barron

There is More in the Sunday Gospel than Meets the Eye
(Vatican Radio Podcast)

Easter
"Beauty now for ashes wear,
Perfumes for the garb of woe,
Chaplets for dishevelled hair,
Dances for sad footsteps slow;
Open wide your hearts that they
Let in joy this Easter Day."
Gerard Manley Hopkins (1884 - 1889)
CatholicCulture.org

+

"But if Christ is preached as raised from the dead, how can some among you say there is no resurrection of the dead? [I]f Christ has not been raised, your faith is vain; you are still in your sins. Then those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished."

1 Cor. 15:12-18

"We don't realize how dangerous Jesus was. If he is who he says he is, then we have to give our whole life to him. If he is not who he says he is, he is not a good man, he is a dangerous, misguided, fanatic."
Fr. Robert Barron

Franciscan University Presents: The Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus

"We've been able to reconstruct the text of the The New Testament with about 99% accuracy... It is the best attested book in ancient history."
William Lane Craig: The Evidence for Jesus' Resurrection, 2011. 1:27:25.

Resurrection of the Body
"The resurrection of the body is an essential Christian doctrine..."
Catholic.com

"The fact of Christ's Resurrection is attested by more than 500 eyewitnesses, whose experience, simplicity, and uprightness of life rendered them incapable of inventing such a fable."
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ (New Advent).

The Culture War and the Catholic Church

"I found the evidence of...the number of witnesses to the Resurrection compelling.

The Resurrection is established as a solid historical fact."

Robert H. Bork, American Legal Scholar and Law Professor

Evidence for the Resurrection of Christ
"Which theory about what really happened in Jerusalem on that first Easter Sunday can account for the data?
There are five possible theories: Christianity, hallucination, myth, conspiracy and swoon."
Peter Kreeft, Philosopher, professor, Christian apologist, author

Why I Am a Catholic - Dr. Peter Kreeft, Phd. Part 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5

The Historicity of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ - Part I and Part II
"Something happened over 1,970 years ago that changed the course of world history...
This event is the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
Dr. Gary R. Gromacki, Biblical Homiletics, Baptist Bible College

"I became a Christian because the evidence was so compelling that Jesus really is the one-and-only Son of God who proved his divinity by rising from the dead. That meant following him was the most rational and logical step I could possibly take."
Lee Strobel, Former award-winning Legal Editor of The Chicago Tribune

Implication of the Resurrection for Christian Psychology
"The resurrection means that we presently see, touch, hear, smell,
and taste is not all there is to the story of being human.
We are not a 'closed' universe, meaning that God has always been
and remains active and immanent."
Dr. David Jenkins, University in Lynchburg

Against the Efforts of an Ever Reviving Gnosis

"It is very important, gentlemen, to stress the empirical and sensible fact of the Easter apparitions. If we do not do so, we Christians will run the great risk of changing Christianity into a form of gnosis."

Pope Paul VI

Jesus of Nazareth II
"[I]n overcoming death, [Christ] transformed the expectation of the afterlife."
Dr. John Haldane, Professor of Philosophy, University of St. Andrews

Burial in Ancient Israel Part 7: The Burial of Christ
"But something else happened. The women were unable to perform their ablutions on the man they called Lord. Of all the burials and customs we’ve seen and discussed, from es-Skhul to the ossuary of Caiaphas, this one ended like no other."
Thomas L. McDonald

The Resurrection Left a Footprint Within History

"[The resurrection] is a historical event that nevertheless bursts open the dimensions of history and transcends it...[I]t can be attested by witnesses as an event of an entirely new kind."
Pope Benedict XVI

Faith & Reason (Video Playlist)

"With the resurrection of Jesus, light itself is created anew. He draws all of us after him into the new light of the resurrection and he conquers all darkness. He is God's new day, new for all of us."
Pope Benedict XVI, 2012

Catholics Come Home

"Catholics Come Home, Inc....creates effective and compassionate media messages...to inspire, educate and evangelize inactive Catholics and others..."

The Catholic Project

Hosted by WordOnFire.org - Word On Fire "draws over 1 million visitors a year from every continent. Fr. Barron posts weekly video clips, commentaries and radio sermons and offers an audio archive of over 500 homilies."

Published: 04.2011. Updated: 04.08.2012; 04.05.2013

Holy Saturday

2013-03-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

On The Physical Death of Jesus Christ
W. D. Edwards, MD; W. J. Gabel, MDiv; F. E Hosmer, MS, AMI
The Journal of the American Medical Association (Abstract)

The Character of Jesus Christ
"The surpassing eminence of the character of Jesus
has been acknowledged by men of the most varied type"
New Advent

Cosmology: Making Sense of the Universe
Jesuit Brother Guy Consolmagno
Research Astronomer and Planetary Scientist
Vatican Observatory

Faith and Science: Catholic Perspectives
Caltech Newman Center: Catholic at California Institute of Technology

Why I'm Catholic
Dr. Kevin Vost (Former Atheist)

The Passion Of Christ
Peter J. Riga, Attorney and Theologian

Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth
"When mathematicians have difficulties doing their calculations, they don't allow their difficulties to turn into doubts about the established truths of mathematics. Instead, they study harder and learn more about mathematics so they can understand how its parts fit together. So it is with the Catholic faith."
Eternal Word Television Network

Catholic Philosophers and Theologians

Catholic Poets

The "Titulus Crucis" sign of I.N.R.I., a true relic of Rome

"[T]he sign that Pontius Pilate placed on Jesus' Cross labeled 'Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews.'"

Rome Reports

What Is Truth?

Marcus Grodi, Pastor

The Coming Home Network International

Published 04.11.2011. Republished 03.30.2013

God's Way

2013-03-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Daily Reading

Saint of the Day

MassTimes.org

From Cradle to Cross and Glory

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
John 10:10

"We are being separated and set apart for God's use."
- Lent with Fr. Pontifex - Triduum

Holy Thursday

WordOnFire.org
The Coming Home Network International
Catholics Come Home

Posted 04.01.12. Updated 03.29.2013.

Upon This Rock

2013-03-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Pope Francis I appears for the first time on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica

at the Vatican March 13. (Catholic News Service)

Pope Francis: his first words (Vatican Radio)

"We should be attentive first to those the world doesn't notice..." - Archbishop Smith

Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." - Matthew 16:16-19

Resources

Listen

Vatican Radio / Video Player: 45 languages

Connect

Apps

Watch

Apps

Study

Bibles

Glow - New Interactive Bible Unlike Any Other
New American Bible Revised Edition (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)
New Jerusalem Bible (CatholicOnline.com)
Verbum Catholic Bible Software

St. Peter

Roman Cathoic Spiritual Direction
Word on Fire
Introduction to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
The Church Alive Series

Engage

Go...into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. - Mark 16:15

Originally Published: 03.06.13

Catholic Youth Ministry - Then and Now

2013-03-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Then.

"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." - Mark 16:15

Now.

Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church (Kindle Edition)

Resources

4 Places to Find the Best Catholic Apps for Your Classroom (Ave Maria Press)

EWTN

Glow - New Interactive Bible Unlike Any Other
LifeTeen.com
Light House Catholic Youth - IT'S TIME TO GET SERIOUS ABOUT FAITH - Welcome to Lighthouse Catholic Youth! If you're like us, you've gotten tired of the surface level - surface level happiness, surface level friendship, surface level faith. Ready to go deeper?
Logos Bible Software
Salt + Light T.V.
XT3 - More than a social network! It is an interactive social media platform for all your latest videos, podcasts, articles and much more. An award-winning Catholic online network, Xt3 will keep you in touch with Church news and events, keep you informed on all the hot topics and the latest on WYD2013. Xt3 - Christ in the Third Millennium.
Youth Outreach: Transforming the Lives of Today and Tomorrow

London

NightFever - St. Patricks

Sandhurst

Stronger - In 2008 Fr Rob Galea, together with the late Bishop Joe Grech, founded the Stronger Youth Program - In association with Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst

U.S.

Arizona

The Edge - The EDGE is a Catholic middle school youth ministry experience created for early adolescents in grades, six, seven, and eight.

World Youth Day 2013 - July 23-28, 2013 - Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)

100 Million Brothers and Sisters in Christ Persecuted

2013-03-02T09:22:00.001-08:00

Then.

Now.

Did you know over 100,000,000 brothers and sisters in Christ suffer persecution for their faith?

That is to say, people who believe in our Lord, and live out their lives faithful Christ's teachings "suffer interrogation, arrest and even death for their faith" (Open Doors USA).

Did you know Pope Benedict XVI had something to say about religious persecution?

According to Vatican News, "Holy Father Benedict XVI...stressed that in many Countries Christians are deprived of fundamental rights and sidelined from public life; in other countries they endure violent attacks against churches and their homes. At times they are forced to leave the countries they have helped to build because of persistent tensions and policies which frequently relegate them to being second-class spectators of national life" (Vatican News).

Did you know as a faithful follower of Jesus, you can do something to help?

Stay informed. See Catholic News Agency for more information.
Get involved. See Aid to the Church in Need or Where God Weeps for some suggestions.
Let others in your parish know, and begin to dialogue and allow the Holy Spirit to move each of you to employ your collective skills, talents and prayer to aid others in need.

" It is necessary that all participate, each according to his position and role, in promoting the common good. This obligation is inherent in the dignity of the human person."
+ Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 913 +

Persecution of Christians (Catholic TV)

Resources

Advocacy

American Center for Law and Justice - By focusing on U.S. constitutional law, European Union law and human rights law, the ACLJ and its affiliated organizations are dedicated to the concept that freedom and liberty are universal, God-given and inalienable rights that must be protected.
Security Adviser McDonough on Religious Freedom - "[W]e need to be respectful of other religious traditions at the same time that we unequivocally proclaim that violence in the name of religion is wrong" (Cardinal Dolan as cited in McDonough, 2012).
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom - "Across the global landscape, the pivotal human right of religious freedom was under escalating attack. To an alarming extent, freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief was being curtailed, often threatening the safety and survival of innocent persons, including members of religious minorities" (Annual Report, 2012).

Articles

Christian Persecution: Christian Nigeria’s Witness for Jesus in the Face of Boko Haram’s Terrorists - "The destruction included 'the Blessed Sacrament that was desecrated,' according to Msgr. Ike’s statement" (Patheos.com).
Father Gerald Murray on the Resignation of Pope Benedict XVI - "[T]he pope is very intent that all believers in God come to a common understanding of how we defend the basic right to religious freedom in the modern world, the right of believers to be able to practice their faith in the public square without coercion; also very sensitive to the right of people to be able to change their religion without suffering penalties of the civil law."

Persecution - "Persecution may be defined in general as the unlawful coercion of another's liberty or his unlawful punishment" (NewAdvent.org).
Religious Persecution in China - "Catholic missionaries are treated terribly by Chinese officials" (Loyola University).
Roll of missionary workers killed in 2010 - "During 2010, at least 23 missionary workers were killed. They included one bishop, 15 priests, one male religious, one religious sister, two seminarians and three lay people" (Independent Catholic News).
Five Myths About Anti-Christian Persecution (National Catholic Reporter)
Our First, Most Cherished Liberty (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops) - "Freedom is not only for Americans, but we think of it as something of our special inheritance, fought for at a great price, and a heritage to be guarded now. We are stewards of this gift, not only for ourselves but for all nations and peoples who yearn to be free."
Muslim Persecution of Christians: December 2012 (FrontPageMag).
Pope highlights Christian persecution in speech to diplomats (Catholic News Agency)

Stories

Persecution Stories - Stories involving the persecution of Christians around the world (Catholic League).

Videos

EWTN’s New Series, ‘The Suffering Church,’ Reveals the Truth About Catholic/Christian Persecution Around the World – And What You Can Do About It
Fr. Barron comments on A Persecuted Church and Its Heroes - "The fastest growing religion in the world is also the most persecuted religion in the world" (Fr. Robert Barron).
Religious Freedom, Middle East Violence and Protests (Raymond Arroyo)
The situation of Christians in Iraq (Where God Weeps)

Websites

Church in Need - As an international Catholic charity under the guidance of the Holy Father, Aid to the Church in Need’s mission is to help suffering and persecuted faithful worldwide.
Hudson Institute: Center for Religious Freedom - The Center for Religious Freedom promotes religious freedom as a component of U.S. foreign policy by working with a worldwide network of religious freedom experts to provide defenses against religious persecution and oppression.
Movement for the Abolition of War
Odyssey Network - "Stories of Faith in Action. Stories Changing the World. Odyssey Networks, founded in 1987, is the nation's largest multi-faith coalition dedicated to producing and distributing media that fosters understanding among people of different beliefs and perspectives and that enriches spiritual life."
The Woolf Institute - The Woolf Institute is a global leader in addressing one of the most pressing and rewarding challenges of our time: the current and historical relationships that exist between the faith-traditions of Judaism, Islam and Christianity, with special reference to Europe and the Middle East.
Vatican Radio - The voice of the Pope and the Church in dialogue with the world!
Where God Weeps - Where God Weeps is a weekly TV & Radio show produced by Catholic Radio & Television Network with the support of the international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need.
World Watch List - The World Watch List (WWL) is a ranking of 50 countries where persecution of Christians for religious reasons is worst.

American Pastor [Father of two] Jailed in Iran Describes Physical, Psychological Abuse

SaveSaeed.org

A Challenge for Some during Lent: Anger Management

2013-02-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

First Impressions: Exposure to Violence and a Childs Developing Brain

Resources

Articles

Anger Management Infused With Faith (Catholic.org)
Church Increasingly Responsive to Domestic Violence, Says Survey (Vertical News)
Controlling Anger before it Controls You (American Psychological Association)
When I Call For Help: A Pastoral Response To Domestic Violence Against Women (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)

Books

Videos

Websites

Catholic Therapists
Evaluate Your Marital Friendship / Self-Giving (MaritalHealing.com)
Family Violence Prevention (Kaiser Permanente's Innovative Model)

The National Domestic Violence Hotline

Provides crisis intervention and referrals to local service providers.
800-799-SAFE (7233)

Vocations

2013-01-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

What is my vocation? The answer is in your response to and understanding of the question, Why was Jesus unnecessarily baptized?

VocationNetwork.org

Six compelling excuses for not becoming a nun - debunked!

Resources

Articles

Pope Benedict: may we be renewed in our Baptism

Websites

Catholic Online - Videos, resources, articles and prayers
Discerning A Vocation (The Franciscan Archive)
Faith Database
Vocation.com
VocationBoom
VocationNetwork.org
Vocations & Priestly Formation (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)

Vocations Playlist: A Call to Everyone

The Fathers of Mercy

Eucharistic Adoration

2013-01-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

Music: Alleluia, by Rich Dittus

". . .The Eucharist is a priceless treasure: by not only celebrating it but also by praying before it outside of Mass we are enabled to make contact with the very wellspring of grace" (Blessed John Paul II).

Resources

International Eucharistic Congress 2013
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: Eucharistic Adoration
The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ: June 14, 2013
Mass and Adoration Locations
Formation

Adult

Books (Amazon.com)

Eucharistic Adoration: Holy Hour Meditations on the Seven Last Words of Christ

Church & Culture

Oh Come Let Us Adore Him: Eucharistic Adoration Manuel (Archdiocese of New Orleans)
Perpetual eucharistic adoration (Richard McBrien, 2009)
Vatican II did not downplay eucharistic adoration, pope says (TheCatholicSpirit.com)
Year of the Eucharist: Youth Catechetical Resource Packet (Archdiocese of New Orleans)

Vocations

Youth

Adoration U: For the Renewal of Catholic Colleges and Universities (The Cardinal Newman Society)
Children of Hope - "Children of Hope is dedicated to leading children into the mystery of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist..."
Eucharistic adoration has impact on youth at World Youth Day: 2008 (Michael Mason, 2008)

Originally Published: 06.10.2012
Updated: 01.09.2013, 12:01

Light of the World

2012-12-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

When Jesus spoke to the people again, he said: I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the light of life. - John 8:12

+

Co-Workers of the Truth: Meditations for
Every Day of the Year
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger

It is about dying to ego and rising
as a sacrament of Christ.
GodSpy: Faith at the Edge

Word on Fire

Re-experience the Catechism
Logos Bible Software

The Logos Catholic collection is indispensable
and invaluable for every priest, deacon, religious or lay faithful.
- Rev. Fr. John Trigilio Jr., PhD, ThD
Verbum: Study the Faith (Powered by Logos)

"...Through the harmonious and complementary efforts of all the ranks of the People of God, may this Catechism be known and shared by everyone, so that the unity in faith whose supreme model and origin is found in the Unity of the Trinity may be strengthened and extended to the ends of the earth" (John Paul, Catechism of the Catholic Church).

Who is this child? He is God!

2012-12-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

O great mystery,
and wonderful sacrament,
that animals should see the new-born Lord,
lying in a manger!
Blessed is the Virgin whose womb
was worthy to bear Christ the Lord.
Alleluia!

(The Original Latin)
O magnum mysterium,
et admirabile sacramentum,
ut animalia viderent Dominum natum,
jacentem in praesepio!
Beata Virgo, cujus viscera
meruerunt portare
Dominum Christum.
Alleulia.

"Jesus compels a choice, in the way no other founder does...[The claims of Jesus] are the unique treasure of Christianity...If Jesus is who he says he is, I must give my whole life to him..." (Robert E. Barron).

Is the infant Jesus really the son of God? Hear 'The Infancy Narratives' (Vatican Radio)

Andrew Newberg: Is the Human Brain Hardwired for God?

Fr. Robert J. Spitzer: God and Modern Physic

Magis Center of Reason and Faith

New Proofs for the Existence of God: Contributions of Contemporary Physics and Philosophy (Fr. R. J. Spitzer)

"We hold on to things outside of us instead of concentrating on what is within that keep us noisy and agitated. We run from experience to experience like children...and wonder how serenity has eluded us... Dwelling on inessentials and, worse, filling the minds of others with them distract from the great theme of our lives. We must learn to distinguish between what is real and what is not" (J. Chittister, The Rule of Benedict: A Spirituality for the 21st Century, p. 290).

Advent

2012-12-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Advent Calendar - Xt3

Resources

Education

"When the Church celebrates the liturgy of Advent each year, she makes present this ancient expectancy of the Messiah..." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 524).
"Advent, this powerful liturgical season that we are beginning, invites us to pause in silence to understand a presence. It is an invitation to understand that the individual events of the day are hints that God is giving us, signs of the attention he has for each one of us." - Pope Benedict VXI, Homily at First Vespers of Advent, November 28, 2009 (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)
Blogs

10 Things You Need to Know About Advent (Jimmy Akin)

Books

Biblia.com - Bible Study Online
Signs of Life: 40 Catholic Customs and Their Biblical Roots (Scott Hahn)
Vyrso - Christian Books

Media

Apps

Gregorian Chant for Advent

Software

TV & Video

Websites

30 Days of Gratitude
Biblia.com - Bible Study Online
Vyrso - Christian Books

Outreach, Practice and Social Network

Catholic Dads HQ Reading Group

Rome

Preparing for Christ, the Author of Transformation and Healing

Abortion

The Birth of Mercy: Being Post Abortive in the Advent and Christmas Seasons

Death

Remembering Those Special to Us Who Have Passed During the Advent Season

Divorce

Hope & Healing for Divorced Catholics

Forgiveness

How do you forgive the unforgivable?
How to Forgive When You Can't: The Breakthrough Guide to Free Your Heart & Mind
Forgiveness Foundation
"Christian prayer extends to the forgiveness of enemies, transfiguring the disciple by configuring him to his Master...Forgiveness also bears witness that, in our world, love is stronger than sin..." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2844).
Matthew West - Story Behind the Song "Forgiveness"

Substance Abuse Treatment and Recovery

Catholic Charities USA

"I've come to bring you hope..."

No Darkness Can Overcome the Light of Christ

2012-12-14T12:01:00.000-08:00

"At a time of such great distress we turn to Jesus, who is with us always, even in our most difficult moments, and extends His healing graces in the midst of our pain. We pray for those who lost their lives today, trusting that they have been received into the presence of the Lord, for their families and for all who are impacted by this national tragedy. Coming together with genuine care and concern for all people, we will find the strength to support one another going forward, confident that there is no darkness that can overcome the light of Christ” (Cardinal Seán, Roman Archdiocese of Boston).

Fr. John Hollowell, Archdiocese of Indianapolis

After a loss, grief is the natural process of recovery. From losing a job to death of a loved one, it is important to learn how to process feelings in a health way. A panel of experts is joined by Terry Cogdon, a father whose daughter was tragically killed, as he offers insights into working through the emotions of grief (Second Opinion TV, Published October 25, 2012).

Resources: Grief, Loss and Healing

Grief and Loss

Death of a Child: Catholic Books at Amazon.com
Grief (Secon Opinion-TV)
Grief: Coping with Reminders After Loss (Mayo Clinic)
Helping Children Cope with Loss, Death and Grief
I Will Remember You: My Catholic Guide Through Grief

Support

The Center for Grieving Children
Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention

Disaster Distress Helpline - 1-800-985-5990
Disaster Resources for Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting (PDF)

The Dougy Center: National Center for Greiving Children and Families
TLC Institute - Supporting professionals and communities with trauma-informed practices.

TLC Recommended Book List for Parents dealing with trauma (PDF)

Coping

Applications

Faith

Interactive Rosary
Pray as You Go - Free App for development of the inner life.

Monitors

Articles

Coping with Violence and Traumatic Event

Community

How communities cope with tragedy

Children

How to Help Your Child Deal with Tragedy (Better Parenting)

How to Talk to Children About School Shooting (WebMD)

Helping Children Regain Their Emotional Safety After a Tragedy (KidPower)
Restoring a Sense of Safety in the A fter math of a Mass Shooting: T ips for Parents an d Professiona ls (Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress)
Talking to Children ab out Disasters (Am. Psychiatric Association)

Faith

General

Help Parents, Children and Others Cope in Aftermath of School Shootings (HealthyChildren.org)
Reacting to the Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting (American Psychological Association)
The Response to, Coping with and Healing Process in Reaction to School Violence [Parents, Children, First Responders and Volunteers] (MADD)

Parents

Tips for Parents and Teachers (National Association of School Psychologists)

Teachers

There Is No Lesson Plan For Tragedy – Teachers YOU Know What To Do (Angela Maiers)

Workers

Restoring a Sense of Safety in the A fter math of a Mass Shooting: T ips for Parents an d Professiona ls (Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress)
Working with Trauma Survivors: What Workers (rescue workers, health care workers, journalists, and volunteers) Need to Know

Counseling
- CatholicCounseling.org
- CatholicTherapists.com
- National Association of School Psychologists
- KidsPeace.org - National Center for Kids Overcoming Crisis

MassTimes.org
Music to Facilitate Reflection

Lost in Meditation - Meditative Gregorian Chants by Capella Gregoriana

Practical Examples of Coping and Healing

Prayer

Catholic Prayers
Prayer for Co mfort After Tragedy (Various Faiths)

Safety

The Department of Homeland Security offers funding, training, and resources to enhance school safety
Gavin de Becker and Associates

Support Groups

Videos

Websites (Other)

Center for Loss and Life Transition

Holding Jesus: Reflections on Mary, the Mother of God

Deepen your devotion to the Blessed Mother with this unique look at Mary’s relationship with her son throughout Jesus’ life - and beyond. Fr. McBride invites us to know Mary not only as the young mother of a newborn but also as the nurturer and caretaker of her son through his adolescence and into his adult ministry. We see Mary in grief at Christ’s death, and we meet her as the mother of the infant Church at Pentecost.

"Christmas points to the suffering of the cross,

which leads to eternal life..." - Columbia Catholic Ministry

"For I am certain of this: neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nothing already in existence and nothing still to come, nor any power, nor the heights nor the depths, nor any created thing whatever, will be able to come between us and the love of God, known to us in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38-39).

Mary, Mother of Sorrows:

The Mystery of Comfort and Hope

The Seven Dolors of Mary

The Most Holy Rosary

Te lucis ante terminum

To thee before the close of day,
Creator of the world, we pray
That, with thy wonted favour, thou
Wouldst be our guard and keeper now.

From all ill dreams defend our sight,
From fears and terrors of the night;
Withhold from us our ghostly foe,
That spot of sin we may not know.

O Father, that we ask be done,
Through Jesus Christ, thine only Son,
Who, with the Holy Ghost and thee,
Doth live and reign eternally.

Amen.

All that I am

2012-12-12T12:01:00.000-08:00

Preparing breakfast early one morning this week, my little ones (now ages eight and six) sat at the table and waited for their favorite part of the breakfast, hot chocolate. I balanced preparing their snacks, lunches for school and my thoughts. I asked my girls, if you were visiting the baby Jesus, what gifts would you take? My oldest one chimed in with a bright smile and said, “I would take him my prayers…” My youngest, shortly thereafter exclaimed, “I would take him all that I am.” Each of my daughters reminded me of the essence of what it means to have an authentic relationship with God.

Thinking about my daughters' responses, I recall a colleague of mine who was heavily involved in the last political campaign. In his early sixties, he relentlessly and kindly shared his views when the opportunity presented itself. He educated himself on the issues, shared his opinion, and more than that, simply handed out bumper stickers to anyone who accepted them. Like my children, he exemplified what it means to give. He is not a prominent figure in the community, or a commentator on a popular news channel. He is a warmhearted man giving all that he is for what he believes important.

JoanChittister (1992), in her book, The Rule of Benedict states, “We can study church history forever and never become holier for the doing. There are theology courses all over the world that have nothing whatsoever to do with the spiritual life. In the same way, we may think we are a community or assume we are family but if we do not serve one another we are, at best, a collection of people who live alone together" (p. 169). There are many challenges in the world to deal with, but in them we find opportunities to have an authentic relationship with God by giving and serving our neighbors. In choosing this path, we deliver to Jesus the greatest and most important gift we can give. When we give all that I am, home life is enriched, our communities more neighborly and the world is a better place, but it must first begin in the mind and heart that springs forth in prayer and continues with a heart that is open to exclaim, I will give all that I am.

Resources

Co-Parenting, a Child's View

2012-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Resources

Groups, Support, Healing & Recovery

Catholic Counseling
Catholic Therapists
CatholicsComeHome.org
Confession / Reconciliation - Why must we confess our sins to a priest?
DivorceCare.org
Divorce Care 4 Kids (DC4K)
Forgiveness Foundation
MassTimes.org
Retrouvaille - A program to Help Couples Heal and Renew their Marriages.

Books, Materials & Resources

Catechism of the Catholic Church
Child Development and Divorce Resources
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, & Lead (Brene Brown)
Divorce, Catholic, Healing and Growth
Feelings - Ever wonder if a little chat and affection provided a child is helping them understand and manage their feelings for a particular concern? This book is a good tool to determine how a child feels in the moment and how they feel after steps are taken to help. Feelings (Aliki Brandenberg, 1984)
How to Forgive When You Can't: The Breakthrough Guide to Free Your Heart & Mind (Jim Dincalci)
Your Creative Brain: Seven Steps to Maximize Imagination, Productivity, and Innovation in Your Life (Harvard Health Publications)
Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto (Brene Brown)

Education

Blink (MP3)

Technology

Apps

Videos

Divorce and Recovery

Catholic Dads HQ

Fatherhood

2012-11-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

Catholic dads everywhere show their children the light of life...

Published 08.27.2012

Updated 11.24.2012

Year of Faith: Oct. 11, 2012-Nov. 24, 2013

2012-11-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

"The 'door of faith' (Acts 14:27) is always open for us, ushering us into the life of

communion with God and offering entry into his Church. It is possible to cross

that threshold when the Word of God is proclaimed and the heart allows itself

to be shaped by transforming grace" (Catholic Diocese of Christ Church).

CatholicsComeHome.org

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: Year of Faith

WordOnFire.org

EWTN: Global Catholic Network

MassTimes.org

When our faith is active, and free in both public and private life, not only are we transformed, but so are the lives of our children…for an eternity.

Published: 11.11.2012
Updated: 11.07.2012

A Prayer for America

2012-11-06T08:41:00.002-08:00

Catholic Prayer Book (Ignatius Press)

Ignatius.com

Faithful Citizenship

2012-10-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Archbishop Kurtz discusses Religious Freedom

Full-length interview with then Cardinal-designate Raymond Burke
regarding his Pastoral Letter on Voting.

"Catholics will vote in much higher numbers for...Romney...and Ryan...They stand against government's efforts to limit the freedom of conscience..." (Nicholson, former ambassador to the Vatican).

Obama defeats Romney to win second term, vows he has 'more work to do' (Fox News, 11.07.2012)
Americans decide the role of government in their lives. However, moving forward, what will be the role of faith in their lives? See the this link for some thought provoking resources.

Resources

Apps

Daily Updates

Education

Faith

Berkley Center for Religion, Peace & World Affairs
The CATHOLICISM Study Program - Fr. Robert Barron created this groundbreaking program as a thematic presentation of what Catholics believe and why.
Logos Bible Software and Study Programs - It's our privilege to equip pastors, students, missionaries, teachers, and the church at large with tools that make Bible study easier and more accessible.
Logos Bible Study - Logos Bible Study’s global classroom contains hundreds of hours of audio and video bible lessons with Dr. Bill Creasy.
Pillars - Catechism of the Catholic Church:  Not Just How to be Catholic…but Why to be Catholic.
St. Paul Center for Biblical Studies
United States Catholic Catechism for Adults (Audio Book)

Politics

Constitution 101 (Hillsdale College)
Constitutional Literacy
EWTN Library (Search keyword: politics)
Google Scholar (Search keyword: faithful citizenship)
Liberty Classroom - The history and economics they didn't teach you (Tom Woods).
Political Party Quiz | Pew Research Center for the People and the Press
Religious Freedom (U.S. Department of State)

Become the Salt and Light of the World

Salt and Light TV

Pacific Justice Institute - Legal defense organization specializing in defense of religious freedom, parental rights...

Leadership

Greenleaf: Center for Servant Leadership - The measure of a servant-leader's progress is in the answers found to the following questions, "Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants? And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society? Will they benefit or at least not be further deprived?"

Light of the World

Media

Press

Faithful Citizenship

Radio

Television

Video

"Government, even at its best, can never be more than an auxiliary in the development of character...We desperately need to recover a sense of the fundamental purpose of education, which is to engage in the architecture of souls. When a self-governing society ignores this responsibility, it does so at its peril" (William J. Bennett, Quantifying America's Decline, 1993).

Political Participation

"Participation in political life is not optional" (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops). Faithful Citizenship: A Matter of Conscience
Imagine (CatholicVote.org)
Forming Conscience for Faithful Citizenship (USCCB)
Freedomworks.org
Religious Liberties (EWTN)
Stand Up for Religious Freedom
Tips for Writing to Your Legislators (Colorado Catholic Conference)
Track the United States Congress

Quotes on Conscience and Religious Freedom

"Conscience is the most sacred of all property" (James Madison, para. 13)

Social Justice and What You Can Do

Tool to Promote Faithful Citizenship

Videos

Voting

Republican National Convention

August 27 - 30

Democratic National Convention

September 4 - 6

Presidential Debates

October 3, 16, 22

Vice Presidential Debate

October 11

Stand Up for Religious Freedom in Your Community
Rally Info and Locations
October 20

2012 Election: YouTube Politics Channel

Don't forget to share with your family, friends, college student and military brothers and sisters.

"Catholicism...It's your story." (Fr. Barron)

Word on Fire: The Catholicism Project

Updated 10.04.2012; 11.07.2012

The New Evangelization

2012-10-04T04:30:00.000-07:00

The call to Catholics everywhere...Until The Whole World Hears!

Until the Whole World Hears (MP3)
by Casting Crowns

Christ was a leader unlike any other. In him, we find our purpose as a countermeasure and answer to the challenges we all face. With him, we are empowered to lead others within our circle of influence.

The New Evangelization begins in the heart (John 10:10) and results in a response to The Human Experience, with a culture of faith unlike any other, directed to the one who leads the way. With a soul rightly aligned, the human condition thrives, satisfied by the one who meets the most fundamental of needs (John 3:16).

Duc in altum!

Resources

Articles

Pope's Twitter success praised as evangelization breakthrough

Political Participation

"Participation in political life is not optional" (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops). Faithful Citizenship: A Matter of Conscience
Imagine (CatholicVote.org)
Forming Conscience for Faithful Citizenship (USCCB)
Freedomworks.org
Track the United States Congress

Videos

Leadership: Prayer. Purpose. Plan. Pursue.

Servant Leadership
The Art of Followership (W. Bennis, 2010, p. 3)
Personal Prelatue
Center for Creative Leadership

When things go wrong: Lessons learned and bouncing back.

Education

Berkley Center for Religion, Peace & World Affairs

Evangelization

Family

Family Life Center

Mass Appeal

History

"Conscience is the most sacred of all property." (Madison, 1792)
"Religion and morality are indispensable..." (Washington, 1796)

Human Rights

"Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion" (U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom)
Fundamental principles are final (William Bennett, 2010)

Issues

Medical Care

Will Holy War Over Health Care Law Cost Obama the Catholic Vote (Hentry, E., 01.31.2011)
"Life-honoring healthcare professionals" protecting their right to act according to conscience (Freedom2Care.org)
Medical students fear coercion to violate conscience. Dr. Steven indicates, "I think that's what some people want. I was debating Planned Parenthood on national right of conscience, on public radio, and she said, 'You have no business being in healthcare if you are not willing to provide legal services...There are some who would love to see faith based people out of the healthcare equation..." (Subcommittee Hearing, Do New Health Law Mandates Threaten Conscience Rights and Access to Care?, 2011).

"Religious liberty...pertains to beliefs held most dear" (M. Minow, Dean, Harvard Law School)
"Adversity can either silence and intimidate us...or be changed into incredible opportunity" (M. Staver, Esq.)
Colorado family-owned business wins first battle against Obama Care (Alliance Defending Freedom)

Thoughts on What Matters

Freedom on Speech and Religion Under Attack (Congressman Ted Poe, 07.08.2011)
Archbishop Joseph Kurtz on conscience (01.31.2012)

Books

Essential Guide to Knowing the Faith (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)
The allure of toxic leaders: Why we follow destructive bosses and corrupt politicians - and how we can survive them (J. Lipman-Blumen, Amazon.com)

Light of the World

Publishers

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Network

Alliance Defending Freedom

Updated: 01.14.2013
Published: 10.04.2012

Year of Faith 2012 / 2013

2012-09-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

Resources

Vatican

Year of Faith 2012/2013: Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Questions & Answers

The New Evangelization

Building Faith through Learning

Read

Magnificat - "Year of Faith Companion - A comprehensive, page-a-day booklet designed to strengthen the life of faith."
Books for Children by Magnificat

Religion, a Language of Hope - Catholic Focus

Hear

United States Catholic Catechism for Adults (Audio Book)

Study

Berkley Center for Religion, Peace & World Affairs
Pillars - Catechism of the Catholic Church: Just How to be Catholic…but Why to be Catholic.

Teach

Brain Rules - Time to upgrade your style of teaching the faith? It is helpful to know how the brain learns information to maximize effectiveness. "Brain scientists have uncovered details every business leader, parent, and teacher should know..." (BrainRules.net).
Knights of Columbus - The KOC now offers two online courses.
For other resources, see this site and page.

ReviveFaith.com
by the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal

Originally posted 08.07.12 (23:59). Updated: 09.26.2012 (09:40).