A Christmas Prayer

I love this Christmas prayer which is actually a novena.  It's supposed to be recited for nine consecutive days leading to Christmas.  It's called the St. Andrew Novena a Christmas Anticipation Prayer.  

"It is piously believed that whoever recites this prayer 15 times a day from the Feast of St. Andrew through Christmas will obtain what is asked for.  Imprimatur:  Michael Augustine Archbishop of New York, February 6, 1897."

Hail and Blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in piercing cold.  In that hour, vouchsafe, O my God, to hear my prayers and grant my desires, through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ and of His Blessed Mother Mary.  Amen.

I wish that I could remember where I found this prayer.  All I know is that I came across it sometime in 2010.  I wrote it down in my planner and recited the novena daily from St. Andrew's feast day (November 30) through Christmas day.  I think that it's a beautiful prayer and a nice tradition to start with the family.  I hope to make it part of my family's devotions next year.  

God bless everyone and Merry Christmas!

Advent

The saying:  "Better late than never" holds true.  I meant to post this article at the start of Advent but I never got around to it.  I'd say there were many distractions that kept me.  But here it is with just two more days till Christmas.

My family and I certainly did not start off with our best feet forward at the beginning of Advent.  As my family and I hurried to get to Mass I started asking myself:  what does Advent mean to me?

We were really, really late.  It was embarrassing because we seem to not learn.  We missed the first and second readings and even the Gospel.  Father was in the middle of his homily already so we decided to wait to enter until he finished.  I could barely hear because the speakers were not working properly on our corner of the church.  So that meant that I missed the homily too.  Then my thoughts traveled back to my initial question.

The meaning of Advent tends to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season.  We all have our wish lists and to do lists and it can all get hectic and stressful.  We act like St. Martha many times -- worriedly rushing to prepare and cook our favorite foods and baked goodies, buying presents for ourselves and loved ones, mailing Christmas greeting cards, decorating the inside and outside of the house.  There's so much to do and it seems like we're always on a time crunch.  The truth is that we make Christmas all about ourselves.

But if you think about the beginnings of Christmas, wasn't it all peaceful and silent with the birth of the most perfect human being that ever lived?  If we focus on the Christ Child He can help us answer our questions about Advent.

Mary, Joseph, the wise men, and the shepherds and animals knew.  On that cold, winter night, all fell silent and still.  All were in awe with the perfect greatness and presence among them.  They all adored Him. 

Several months ago the retired priest at our parish was giving a homily that really struck a chord.  During his homily my eyes welled up and I felt chills rushing through me because of a simple, powerful phrase.  The priest said Jesus is telling us, "Show me, show me how much you love me."  

I believe that is what Advent is all about.  The Child Jesus is telling us just that:  "Show me how much you love me."  Maybe it's not enough to get all the cooking done, to check off everything on our Christmas gift lists, and to get all those Christmas cards done on time.  Jesus is telling us that there is so much more.

To me Advent is about recommitting myself to Christ.  It's about putting Christ first above everything else.  It's about committing to getting to church early to pray and adore Him, committing to family prayer and devotions, and almsgiving.  For me it's about teaching my son the faith.  I think Advent means something different for every one of us.  

For others, preparing for Advent could look like going to daily Mass for the rest of Advent and the Christmas season.  Or what about going to midnight Mass with the family?  After Mass have a midnight snack and talk about the humbling experience of the very first Christmas.  What was it like for Mary, Joseph, and Jesus in the manger?  What about volunteering at a soup kitchen or a crisis pregnancy center to help those in need?  Advent is about sharing Christ with others.

To really show Christ love means to be dynamic Catholics in action.  It's doing what others would rather not do.  It's not always easy but let's face it -- what Jesus did for us was not easy.  Now is the time to show Christ how much we really, truly love Him.

The song that I remember from the first Sunday of Advent during Communion was Christ Be Our Light.  It's so fitting because it's such a cheerful, optimistic prayer.  I love it because it's like starting anew and asking Christ to help us lead the way during Advent.  So ask Jesus to be your light during this Advent and Christmas season.  Ask Him to show you what Advent means to you.   Let the Lord of lords and the King of kings be your light and your peace for a blessed Christmas season for you and your loved ones.

“The priest said Jesus is telling us, “Show me, show me how much you love me.” ”

Appointment With God

I started my Saturday off feeling tired, cranky, and borderline obnoxious -- not my most appealing self.  I was grouchy and I did not want to do a thing.

My husband was planning a family day by enjoying the day outside because it was a beautiful fall day,  but I was a killjoy.  And so we all ended up staying in that day.

Aware of my foul mood I knew I needed some help.  I decided to go to confession.  I was inspired by Pope Francis.  During his US papal visit, I listened to an EWTN commentary that Pope Francis goes to confession every fifteen days.  That's just amazing.  The pope is super busy yet he makes time.   

But as the day went on, I felt more and more sluggish.  I curled up in bed and took a nap.  As the time approached for me to leave for church, Martin asked if I was still going.  "No," was my answer.  I sounded like an uncooperative child.

I almost missed my appointment with God but something nudged me to get myself ready and in the car to make it on time.  Thank you, my dear guardian angel!  I hurriedly grabbed a quick lunch from the kitchen and then I was off.

Thankfully the line was not too long.  There were five people ahead of me.  I looked around and saw other parishioners getting ready for the vigil Mass.  I thought about our guardian angels and how each person around me has a special appointed guardian angel protecting him or her.  It's amazing how great God's love is for each one of us!

As I stood in line waiting my turn, I wondered if entering heaven would be like this, standing in line waiting to be admitted.  With God's grace one day I will be waiting my turn to enter His heavenly kingdom!

I was also reminded of a few great saints -- St. Faustina, St. Padre Pio, and St. Jean Vianney -- and their experiences with the sacrament of reconciliation.  There is a beautiful story of St. Faustina as her confessor did not believe that she was having visions of Our Lord.  Her confessor told her to ask Christ what his last sin was.  She asked the Lord and He replied, "I do not remember."  Jesus forgives and forgets, throwing our sins away.  

Saints Padre Pio and Jean Vianney were known to spend hours at the confessional.  St. Padre Pio had the gift of knowing if a sinner was with holding any unconfessed sin.  And St. Jean Vianney, the Curé of Ars, was known to hear confessions up to eighteen hours a day.

For some time now I had been dealing with a variety of challenges such as my own healing and recovery, my mom's surgery, and my son's doctors' appointments.  All of these plus the regular duties of being a stay at home mom had pushed me to exhaustion, mentally and spiritually.

It was time, my time to reconcile with God.  As I walked into the confessional I was greeted by the retired priest who also happened to hear my last confession.  He gently counseled me and said that he would pray for my healing and more importantly for peace and patience.  As he said those words and granted me absolution I knew and felt every burden fade away.  The power of confession is truly healing, miraculous, and much needed in our lives today.

By the time I got home all was well with me.  I happily worked in the kitchen and started prepping for dinner.  It was like I was a new person!  

Personally I don't like carrying the weight of sin.  It is a heavy, awful burden.  Pushing confession off is pushing God off to the side and acting like we don't need Him.  It's just like Adam and Eve who disobeyed God and hid from Him.  The truth is no one can hide from God.

The saints and Pope Francis are wonderful examples of holiness, but we are all called to be holy.  If you haven't taken advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in a while, I encourage you to do so.  

Make time for Him.  Make that appointment with God and be reconciled and renewed.

“I almost missed my appointment with God but something nudged me to get myself ready and in the car to make it on time. Thank you, my dear guardian angel!”

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Surrender

I am back at this place waiting...   The last time I was here it was around Easter 2010 when I was still a newly wed.

I was encouraged then but this time I am feeling out of sorts.  Frankly, I feel exhausted from my mind racing.  Nobody likes the unknown.

This time we are three plus my dad and brother.  We are waiting to learn the outcome of my mom's surgery.

These days I am trying my hardest to let go and let God.  It's hard for me because I like to be in control of my whereabouts.  I like order.  I like things in its proper place because it makes me feel better.

This situation unfortunately is making me very uncomfortable.  With my mom's neurosurgeon we knew him and we had confidence in him.  He had done my mom's first surgery to remove the ependymoma in 1997.  He once again was able to perform the surgery for the acoustic neuroma in 2010.  But I don't know this new doctor.  

My mind is wandering again this time of a book by Father Larry Richards.  It's called Surrender! The Life Changing Power of Doing God's Will and that's exactly what I need to do this very moment.  Surrender everything to God and trust in His Holy Will.  I have brought the book along to re-read it hoping that it will help me to be more supportive for my mom and family.  

Jesus, I trust in You!

And I will go back to reciting my rosary prayer one bead at a time because it has always and will continue to give me consolation.  And I will wait knowing that my mom is in the loving care of our Lord.

We all know someone who is suffering.  Someone out there is dealing with drug addiction, mental illness, cancer, a difficult pregnancy, lupus, arthritis, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, dementia, old age.  It's painful to watch our loved ones suffer.  We feel so helpless, don't we?  But I remember what a good priest said to my mom when she told him in 2010 about her upcoming surgery.  He said, "Good.  You will be suffering with God!"  

We forget that the most important person who ever lived and walked on this earth suffered the worst kind of crucifixion and death on a Cross.  If we remember Him during our sufferings and times of need, we can unite our sufferings with His.  That's what the faith teaches us.

And let's not forget about the Good Samaritan.  Though others passed by and ignored the brutally injured, half dead man, the Good Samaritan stopped and took care of him with love and compassion.  We can do the same by visiting or calling our loved ones especially those who are in most need.    

Mary, Holy Mother of God, be a mother to me now!  Pray for my mother and us sinners now and at the hour of our death.  Amen.

“Jesus, I trust in You!”

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Bethesda

Three years ago when I was pregnant with my little boy,  we met my husband's best friend and his family in Maryland.  We were having some fun times together!

At the time their oldest child was about to start her college courses and her dad wanted me to give the best advice possible about succeeding academically.  

Being the only adult in the group who went to college in the US, I was glad to talk about my experiences.  I started off stating the one thing that I would have done differently.  

I said, "I would have prayed more."  I can't forget the look on her dad's face.  He stared at me so sternly with a puzzled look.  And so I continued about the importance of prayer and keeping a God-centered life because for one college life is tough.  There's no question about that.  

I had my struggles academically but I was really blessed to have been surrounded by really good people all four years.  I thank God for my guardian angel who had been so good to me during my youth and young adult life.  

Faith helps us to make the right choices during difficult times and it gives us hope.  Also, asking the intercession of the Holy Spirit is very powerful as we need His guidance to help choose classes and pick the right major.   Pause just a while in moments of confusion and the Holy Spirit will lead you on the right path in His time.  He never disappoints!

I still remember my lowest moment at The College of William and Mary when I believed that my mom had passed.  There are no words to describe the feeling but my only consolation was praying the rosary.  Just fifteen minutes of prayer and my whole world was completely changed as I felt calm and peace that I had never experienced before.

A few weekends ago we met with our dear friends, this time with mother and daughter.  And again we had a grand time spending a few hours together.  Their daughter was in Bethesda for an interview with her top pick medical school.  

We had lunch at a  restaurant called Wildwood Kitchen.  It's located in a quaint shopping center in Bethesda.  I love how they are able to accommodate someone like me who is on a strict clean diet.  I would definitely go back given the opportunity!

If you do not believe in the power of prayer, let me tell you that it works!  For some years now, my husband  and I have kept our friends  in our prayer intentions since we knew that they were not  faithfully practicing Catholics.   I am happy to say that our prayers have been answered!  Today they are among our most faithful Catholic friends!  

Since that time when we met three years ago our friends have grown a hundred fold in their Catholic faith.  I like to tease them about how jealous I am that they have gone to conferences and have met many of my favorite prominent Catholic personalities.  It was wonderful to sit and chat about the beauty of  Catholicism and the strength of God's mercy to us reverts.

My husband heard something insightful while listening to Catholic Radio just a few weeks ago.  He said that the radio talk show host said that we should not be asking our children what they want to be when they grow up.  Rather, we should be asking,  "How will you serve God when you grow up?"  

Faith is really the best gift we can give to our children.  Why?  Because the ultimate goal at the end of each person's life is to get to heaven.  We forget that day in and day out in a self-centered, materialistic, power-hungry world.  Let us commit to passing on a faith so strong in our children.  One that keeps them always centered in Christ and His love and always ready to serve Him.

“How will you serve God when you grow up?”

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El Papa

Did anyone else notice how high church attendance was last Sunday and this past Sunday?  I had never seen so many people attend Mass before at our parish!  I like to think that Pope Francis' visit to the US had something to do with it.  I certainly hope he comes back for another visit!  

Like so many, I had been glued to the television watching and cheering for the pope all week long.  What excitement and good for the whole world to witness!

I couldn't help but notice that the climax of Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families brought much joy to the Holy Father.  He was beaming and filled with so much energy when he arrived in Pennsylvania!

As much as my family and I wanted to be there to see the pope in person, we were unable to make it.  But I recalled what a disabled priest once said about the March For Life:  he probably would never be able to participate in the March For Life in Washington, DC again, but he would pray for its success.   And so we prayed during the pope's visit.

Prayer really was the theme of Pope Francis' visit in the US.  I loved watching all of the Masses and prayer services.  The magnificence and beauty of each Mass was truly priceless and uplifting since every moment praised and glorified God.  I also loved his humility as he asked many times, "Pray for me."  

There is something great and wonderful about the pope.  When he enters a place he makes an impact, a difference for the better.  A holy man guided by the Holy Spirit, Pope Francis can captivate audiences Catholic and non-Catholic alike; people from all over are attracted to him, and we all listen.

One of the most moving moments for me was when the Holy Father spoke before feeding the homeless.  He spoke of St. Joseph and though he had to overcome hardship after hardship he had a quiet wisdom and steadfast faith in God.  Like the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph constantly said "yes" to God.  It was so touching and eloquent how he could remind us of one of the most humble saints who ever lived and show us how his life parallels so closely to the poor, the forgotten, and the lost.

May we all be moved to be like the pope and the saints.  May we all be moved to be more Christ like!

“And so we prayed during the pope’s visit.”

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Helen

Years ago I was asked to drive a Schoenstatt priest from Northern Virginia to Virginia Beach.  During the drive, I asked him if there was ever a St. Elaine.  Fr. Dietrich exclaimed, "Yes, St. Helen!"  I remember feeling happy to hear it.  

The second time I learned about St. Helen or St. Helena was during a homily at Our Lady of Hope in Northern Virginia.  Fr. Saunders (a great homilist and a graduate of my alma mater The College of William and Mary)  was sharing a beautiful story about the eye catching significance of the crucifix above the altar.   

If you live in or near Northern Virginia I highly recommend that you visit Our Lady of Hope in Potomac Falls, Virginia.  I've always admired its beauty and especially the suspended crucifix before the altar.  On the back of this grand, commanding fixture bears the Latin words "in hoc signo vinces" (in this sign, you will conquer).  The story tells of Constantine marching with his army and suddenly he sees the sun and a bright cross with those words.  The following night God explains the meaning of the vision in a dream.  God tells Constantine to have every soldier bear the sign of the cross on his shield in battle.  Constantine did as the Lord warranted and he came out victorious.  The cross is a powerful reminder that Jesus is the triumphant one.  

I love the story of St. Helena.  She really was a remarkable saint.  An empress, mother, and wife, sadly her husband the emperor left her for another woman.  Mother to Constantine, she was responsible for converting him to Christianity.  She therefore is the patroness of difficult marriages and converts.  She spent her life building churches for God's glory.  

St. Helena is also famous for finding the True Cross upon which Our Lord was crucified.  She found all three crosses but it was the True Cross that brought about the miracle of the healing of a woman diagnosed with terminal illness.  

These stories highlight the triumph of the cross.  Jesus, the Lord of lords and the King of kings, has already conquered death and has laid a path for all of us to follow.  I recently watched a homily on EWTN by a Passionist priest who was talking about darkness.  We, just like Jesus and all of the saints, experience great darkness from time to time. The priest explained that just as darkness is important for mustard seeds to grow, it is the same for each one of us.  Darkness is supposed to make us stronger.  It is supposed to bring us closer to our Lord.  It is during our darkest, most difficult times that we can grow in faith and really know and follow our God.

The saints are our friends.  They are with God in heaven and are rooting for us.  Have your children read and learn about their patron saints and encourage intercessory prayer.  You can even make it fun for your children by throwing a party in honor of their patron saints.  There are some wonderful, inspiring movies about the saints, too.  Watch them with your children.  When my son gets older, I plan to teach him about his patron saints.  His full name is Joseph Fulton Constantine; Joseph after St. Joseph and his paternal grandfather Jose; Fulton after Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, the great TV evangelist; and of course Constantine after Constantine the Great.  (Although Constantine is not honored in the Roman Catholic Church as a saint, he is still remembered for his great role in Catholic history - the legalization of Christianity among other things.)   I love this quote beautifully put by Pope St. Clement I of Rome:  "Brothers, we must follow such examples.  For it is written:  Follow the saints, because those who follow them will become saints."  August 18 is the feast day of St. Helena.  St. Helena, patron saint of converts and difficult marriages, pray for us!  

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Favorite Movies and Books Of The Saints

 Helena Saint Helena and the True Cross The Living Wood: Saint Helena and the Emperor Constantine The Song of Bernadette Therese Clare and Francis Saint John Bosco Mission to Love Saint John Paul the Great: His Five Loves Saint Rita Saint Anthony St. Peter Maria Goretti

Resources

St. Helena and the True Cross by Fr. William Saunders

Finding of the True Cross by Fr. William Saunders

“The saints are our friends. They are with God in heaven and are rooting for us.”

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Give A Blessing

It was a blessing to be able to hear the homilies of different parish priests in Northern Virginia.  Many were thought provoking and inspiring.  I remember a parish priest whose homilies did not usually resonate with me.  For some reason, his sermons didn't connect with me.  However, there was one that did.  He spoke about visiting his dad, and how during every visit, his dad would give him a blessing.  I thought what a lovely gesture, to do something so simple yet touching to your child, entrusting him to the Lord. 

At the time, Martin and I were newly married and lived just minutes away from two of my godchildren.  I decided that I would bless them every time we visited.   I would simply take my thumb and mark their foreheads with the sign of the cross.  It's just a simple, loving blessing for their protection.  I now have five godchildren and unfortunately do not see them as much as before, but I bless them when I see them.

I do the same for my family.  Whenever Martin leaves the house for work or for errands, I mark his forehead.  It somehow gives me peace knowing that I am asking the Lord to watch over him.   I bless our son several times a day, in the morning and evening and before meals.  

Our night time ritual is pretty consistent.  Constantine gets a quick bath, we read books, then we pray the rosary together as a family, I sing songs, and I always kiss and bless him right before I put him down for bed.   I'm a mama who wants to ensure a very good night's sleep for my son.  These are some of the many cherished blessings that fill our lives with joy!

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“I do the same for my family. Whenever Martin leaves the house for work or for errands, I mark his forehead. It somehow gives me peace knowing that I am asking the Lord to watch over him. I bless our son several times a day, in the morning and evening and before meals. ”

Let's Go Fly A Kite

Throughout my 20s and early 30s, I regrettably was pro-choice.  Like many Americans I had been brainwashed in believing that every person has a right to choose what is best for him or herself.  I didn't believe it was any of my business what people wanted to do with their lives.  We live in the United States, the Land of the Free, for crying out loud!  Never did I imagine how dead wrong I was in this mindset.

Towards the end of my banking career I distinctly remember siding with the pro-choice argument in conversation.  I can't forget what a bank associate and friend quizzingly said to me, "Isn't that an oxymoron?  I mean coming from a Catholic!"  He certainly had a point.  Oh my gosh!  Could I be a hypocrite?  

By now I think people have heard and seen the two shocking undercover videos on Planned Parenthood's top women executives caught speaking so nonchalantly about the selling of baby parts.  The first woman, Dr. Deborah Nucatola, is casually eating her lunch while talking about the destruction of fetuses yet salvaging baby organs to sell them.  For people who have no idea what an abortion is, these videos are mind boggling.  For people who have never heard of Planned Parenthood and thought that it's just a women's clinic that saves lives by conducting mammograms, this is new news.  At the end of the first video, the CEO of Planned Parenthood Cecile Richards comes out and says how wonderful Nucatola is.  

Today is the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene.  How timely and fitting her commemoration comes!  St. Mary Magdalene was the sister of Martha and Lazarus, the man whom Jesus raised from the dead.  She was also a prostitute, who was possessed by at least seven demons. However, Jesus had pity on her just as He has for all of us sinners and casted out the demons. St. Mary Magdalene's story of conversion is so powerful.  So it is good to ask for her intercession for all those in the abortion industry like Cecile Richards, Deborah Nucatola, and those who are pro-choice and pro-abortion.  Abortion is heinous, evil, and sadistic, and anyone who thinks otherwise is deeply conflicted and brainwashed (like I was).  Even a small, innocent child can tell that the killing of a baby in the womb is wrong.  May the Lord raise abortion leaders and supporters up from the dead.  May He help them see the truth because nothing is more important than saving souls!

You may be wondering about the title "Let's Go Fly A Kite".  I've been watching the movie Mary Poppins these days because of my little boy and I can't get the song out of my head.  He loves the movie and the songs.  One of his favorite scenes is the one with the penguins dancing in the animated sequence.  He gets right up every time and dances along!  If you haven't seen the movie Saving Mr. Banks, the story behind Mary Poppins,  it's a must see as well.  I have a wish, more like a vision.  I'd love to see the day when abortion is abolished in the United States.  On that wondrous day I'd love to see 55 million kites up in the sky to honor those 55 million children murdered in the wombs of their mothers here in the U.S.  At least 55 million babies have been killed since Roe v. Wade.  What a happy, happy day that would be and not to mention a most beautiful sight!

I urge you to talk to your children (even if they are grown) about the evil that is abortion.  Have that conversation.  If you don't, then they will eventually believe it is okay, as I once did.  It really is a hard conversation to have because the thought of it is very saddening.  Say a prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in your discussion with your children.  He will be your help and lead the way.   Every life matters from conception to natural death and for God's sake let's instill this truth in our children.  

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First and Second Planned Parenthood Videos

Resources 

Live Action

Students of Life of America

March for Life

Susan B. Anthony List

Claire's Story, Abortion Survivor

Priests for Life

Abolish Human Abortion

Silent No More Awareness

Rachel's Vineyard

Abby Johnson

AAPLOG   Find a pro-life doctor near you!

EWTN

“I have a wish, more like a vision. I’d love to see the day when abortion is abolished in the United States. On that wondrous day I’d love to see at least 55 million kites up in the sky to honor those 55 million children murdered in the wombs of their mothers here in the U.S. What a happy, happy day that would be and not to mention a most beautiful sight!”

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Six Years

The most important thing that I've learned these past six years of marriage is that God's love knows no bounds.  We cannot count the blessings He has given us.  Our life has flourished because of Him.

We've certainly had an eventful time together.  We were unemployed at the start of our marriage, relocated three times in four years for Martin's job, had financial challenges, and dealt with illness.  In times of difficulty and uncertainty, God has provided for us and has answered all of our prayers.

I can never forget one life changing event.  Martin's job in Dallas was eliminated a couple of months before our wedding and he was left unemployed.  He called me right away to tell me the bad news.  I happily replied, "Oh, good!  I don't have to move then!" (I was living in Virginia.)   That was not exactly the response he expected!  He called his mom in Manila next to tell her the news.  She cut the conversation short saying, "I have to go.  Don't worry anak (child)!  The Lord has been looking after you your entire life.  He won't stop now."  Click, dial tone.  No sympathy there!

Mom got it right.  The Lord has truly looked after us.  Being unemployed was an unexpected blessing -- it brought us closer.  Somehow, despite our adversity, God took away our burdens.  We prayed the rosary, were able to attend daily Mass, and had lots of quality time not only with each other but with our dearest friends and family.  We were even able to go back to the Philippines for Martin's father's birthday.  We like to call this time in our lives our extended honeymoon!

When we were preparing for our wedding, I used to ask Martin if we could celebrate our wedding anniversaries lavishly.  I had all sorts of extravagant ideas floating in my head.  Martin would just smile in reply but I'm sure he was worried!  Thankfully I don't think like that anymore.  While weddings are truly special and unforgettable for the bride and groom, I've learned that there is much more to an anniversary than having a party.  Our anniversary is a reminder that our life together is sacred, blessed in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony.

There is no doubt in my mind that my life has never been sweeter since marrying Martin. These past six years have been the best six years of my life.  And I know that the next six years, and beyond, will be even sweeter.

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The Mass

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The Reception

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Dios ti agngina!  Thank you to all of our loved ones who devoted themselves to prayer during our wedding preparation and who continue to pray for us!  And to all who celebrated our special day with us, thank you.  We love you!

“There is no doubt in my mind that my life has never been sweeter since marrying Martin. These past six years have been the best six years of my life. And I know that the next six years, and beyond, will be even sweeter.”

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Comedy in the Confessional

Have you ever heard laughter from a confessional before?  I know it sounds so bizarre but it really did happen.

A few years ago before my son was born my husband and I were new to Delaware and discovered a small white chapel not too far from our home.  It's named after the Immaculate Conception and it happened that the feast of the Immaculate Conception had just been celebrated.

It was also time for me to go to confession since it was about a year since my last one.  As we walked in we saw that it was very quiet and peaceful just as it should but there was no line.  We were the first to arrive.  The parish priest was just coming out to greet us.  We told him that we had come for confession and he told us he was happy to hear ours.  I decided to go first.

I have always preferred face to face confession for some reason.  I like to see my confessor's eyes and read facial expressions.  I think it helps me to make a good confession too.  I feel relieved when it's all over and the priest grants me absolution.  It is the one special moment to have with God and He makes everything right again.

I remember Father Roark, an older, kind priest.  I started off with my most serious sins and then talked about my venial ones.  Well, the one about ice cream really threw him off.

I told father that I was home that same week having some Ben and Jerry's strawberry cheesecake ice cream.  It had not been opened yet but I took the whole pint out and started eating.  This was really good ice cream.  I consciously kept reminding myself to stop halfway so that Martin could enjoy some too.  The problem was that I never stopped.  I ate it all!  And I knew that Martin would feel bad too.

The next day I did my usual routine of walking on the treadmill and watching EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network).  Father Mitch Pacwa was saying Mass and then the homily.  It was as if he was talking straight at me because he was talking about the gluttonous behavior of finishing a whole pint of ice cream.  My mouth dropped.  I couldn't believe it!  It was also the feast day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As I was recalling all of this to Father Roark he just burst out laughing and then laughed even harder.  He threw his head up in the air and could not stop laughing!  I found myself in an interesting situation and I thought that this certainly does not happen every day -- I started to laugh too.  I must say that we had a pretty good laugh together.

Poor Martin was left outside to wonder what was happening.  I walked back to pray at the pews to finish my penitence. As he entered the confessional, I completed my prayer and kept smiling to myself.

This was the most lighthearted and surprising confession I've ever had.  Not every confession will be as lighthearted as mine, but the feeling of forgiveness, the sense of relief, and the gratitude of being reconciled with our Lord will always be experienced.  

If you ask me if I still eat ice cream, I would tell you no.  But I'm so wishing to try this refined sugar free, gluten free, dairy free ice cream in Venice, California called Kippy's Ice Cream.  The reviews and pictures say it all.  Umm, Martin, when can we go?  :) 

“It is the one special moment to have with God and He makes everything right again.”

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Nepal

Nepal.  I have never been to Nepal but I would love to go there some day.  Why?  Because Nepal reminds me of my beloved Philippines.  From what I hear,  it is an enchanting country and the Nepalese people are so warm and friendly.

My first meeting with a Nepalese was nearly ten years ago when I worked for a community bank in Northern Virginia.  Her name was Mrs. Thapa.  I remember a petite pretty lady filled with vibrancy, a shining spirit, and a smiling countenance.  I remember thinking after that meeting that I'd really like to get to know her.  As the days and months passed I saw her more and more at the bank.  She applied for a position and became an employee at my branch.  She eventually became a very good friend.  Today I simply call her Anjana.

Anjana is from the heart of Nepal, the capital Kathmandu.  Recently, she contacted me about the tragedy that has taken place in her beloved Nepal.  We've all experienced devastation in some form or another.  It's frightening and sickening all at the same time.  These horrific events remind us how fragile humanity really is.  But we can overcome and triumph in tough times.  The human spirit is stronger than what we think.

Today I would like to offer a simple prayer to all the Nepalese people and for their crying country.

Lord God,

Please look upon the people of Nepal and send Your healing hand on every single person especially those who have been wounded and have lost their homes and/or loved ones.  Grant them courage and strength to rebuild their country to give You honor and praise always.

Amen.

Friends, let's lift up Nepal!  If you have not yet donated and would like to help, please consider giving to www.gofundme.com/nepalhospitals, a site that Anjana's daughter Devina has created to help those who are in most need of being cared for in Nepalese hospitals.  Every dollar counts so please know that any amount is deeply appreciated.  Also, please continue to keep Nepal and its people in your prayers.  God bless and thank you!

Attached are pictures that showcase the beauty and color of Nepal before the earthquake disaster that occurred on Saturday, April 25, 2015.

“The human spirit is stronger than what we think.”

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Happy Easter

"We are Easter people," the priest from Kenya prodded the parish this morning during his homily.  "Our faith is in the risen Lord."  When I entered the church and was greeted by the beautiful Easter lilies and spring flowers at the altar, St. Therese of Lisieux, the Little Flower, came to mind.  Her simple, little way so inspired the world. Little things done for the glory of God can be great too.  I'm reminded that the saints lived joyful lives even though many suffered greatly on earth.  Joyful because they understood the promise of Christ.  The Eucharist is all we need to be complete.  The Eucharist is central to the teaching of the faith.

These days we rarely eat out.  If we do it's because it's a special occasion.  Easter Sunday is the most important day for all Christians so to celebrate we decided to try a local, quaint restaurant in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania called The Garlic Poet.

I must say that I think I've found the place where I'd like to celebrate my birthday for next year.  The Garlic Poet is the first in the area to incorporate the farm to table concept, an increasingly popular trend.  I felt at home in this cozy, relaxing space, which is reminiscent of an artsy library from old days past.  Garlic because it's a universal food and poet because poetry a universal language.  Our server Ed was accommodating, friendly, and very knowledgeable.  He sat us at a corner where the Spanish poet Luis de Gongora's portrait graced the wall.  I appreciated this since I was a Spanish major and I'm sure I had to have studied Gongora's work at some point in my Spanish classes.  I love the intimate setting, perfect for small dinner parties, serving up to 12 to 16 persons.

Back to the food!  I was served an appetizing plate of sea scallops, spring risotto, and sweet roasted carrots.  This is gourmet at its best.  This entree was total bliss.  I was able to enjoy a tiny bite of my husband's entree as well, a delectable cut of filet mignon, and some of his Italian red wine.  All food is local and organic so that's more bonus points for this establishment.  Their featured menu changes by the season so you know you get the freshest food possible.  We will certainly be by again to savor new Garlic Poet creations that any foodie would love and crave.  Hmmm, till next time.   

Please support local, farm to table restaurants in your area.  The food is healthy and made from scratch.  The ingredients are sourced from local farms which use very little to no pesticides and chemicals.  Many chefs can cater to your specific food preferences too.  This is a win-win for everyone.

“We are Easter people. Our faith is on the risen Lord.”

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My Catholic Story

As we begin Holy Week, I am reminded of a moment in time when my world stood still,  a defining moment in my life.  It was a time when I realized how great God's love is and how His love transformed me.  This is my reversion story.

April 3, 1997.  I was a junior at the College of William and Mary in the midst of exams.  I remember answering the telephone and hearing my dad’s voice -- he sounded so sad,  so broken and so exhausted.  I could tell he had been crying.  I had never heard him like this before and so I immediately became alarmed.  I braced myself to hear the worst.  My dad began by telling me that my mom underwent surgery to remove three large tumors on her spinal cord.  Wait!  This was news to me; I knew my mom was undergoing surgery but I had been told it was for a relatively minor procedure, not major surgery!   I held my breath, waiting for the reassuring words that everything was ok.  Instead my dad's defeated voice continued.   “Your mom is resting now…”  At that moment came an outpouring of grief and pain.  I began to cry uncontrollably and  could not listen any longer.  All that was registering was that she was gone so I told my dad, “Dad, I have to go!”  I quickly hung up the phone.  I had never dealt with losing a loved one, much less losing a parent.  I was too young to lose her!  What made it worse was that I had not known about my mom's condition, how serious it was, and had not spent any more time with her.  I didn't even have a chance to say goodbye.  So I stood in the middle of the room feeling guilty and lost.  I didn't want to see anyone nor did I want anyone to see my grief.  But my loss was so overwhelming I could not weep quietly.  My cries escaped the solitude of my room, worrying my hall mates who kept knocking to see if I was ok.  I could not stop the tears.  

Some time passed and then a thought came to me.  I recalled something that my mother had given to me and told me to keep with me always -- a   simple, wooden Rosary.  I had never prayed the Rosary on my own before but this was a time when I felt I needed to.   I knelt down next to my bed and began to pray still crying.  In the middle of my prayer, I suddenly felt consoled and my crying ceased.  A calming peace passed through my whole being and I had faith that my mother was in a better place.  This was the first time I found consolation with the Blessed Virgin Mary and I felt thankful.

The next day my dad called again.  To my surprise and great relief, I learned that I had misunderstood him.   The sadness in his voice and his choice of words made me believe that my mom was gone.  I was so happy to realize that my mom was alive!

 I needed to see her.  Fortunately a good friend agreed to drive me to the hospital.  I cannot describe the feeling of seeing my mom again after thinking she was gone.  She was calm and beautiful, resting quietly on the hospital bed.  My sadness completely gone now, I was overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude.  Gratitude that she was alive, gratitude that I was able to see her, and especially gratitude to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

This experience was a real awakening for me. I had a new appreciation for my family and my life.  Most importantly, my faith had been shaken awake.  My tears and sadness had not been wiped away by chance, but by God's gracious mercy.  I realized for the first time the great power of the Rosary and the Blessed Mother's intercessions.  Little did I know that this was just the beginning of a beautiful relationship with my Lord and my God.

“A calming peace passed through my whole being and I had faith that my mother was in a better place. This was the first time I found consolation with the Blessed Virgin Mary and I felt thankful.”