December 30,2010 REFLECTIONS

It's almost the end of the year and an appropriate time to look forward to a most thrilling and hopefully, less challenging year for me. While I have braced myself to face the future with remarkable optimism, I find it necessary to look back on the happenings of the last twelve months and find out how they have affected my life and my relationships.


Birthday anniversaries come and go with so much fun with family, relatives and friends. Somehow with the adding of years, come an unspeakable sense of family love that grow deeper, stronger almost to the extent of being overcome with fear of helplessly losing that filial oneness at any unexpected moment. I felt an eagerness for being with family more often and sometimes failed to make myself realize that my children's lives are now more bound by their own ever-growing family web which is of primordial importance. It took some effort on my part to accept the fact that finally, I have now only become an appendage, sometimes, I am afraid, a real burden to them. I must confess that I had been so lonely at times!

The trip to Paris and Lourdes last June with my grandchildren, Michael and Christian and my son, Bobby and Carla was a most exciting one. Equally memorable was the pilgrimage to the same destinations- Paris and Lourdes-with Joshua, Christina and Tiffany Anne in 2009. Can you imagine a 78-year old woman roaming the streets of Paris with three children then? So far, I am happy and grateful that I have fulfilled my promise to give as gift for any grandchild graduating from Grade VIII the thrill of seeing the fabled City of Paris. The City of Light has so much religious significance because at 140 Rue de Bac, Convent of the Daughters of Charity, our Blessed Mother appeared to Saint Catherine Laboure in July, 1830 and gave instructions on the Miraculous Medal. I felt good showing my family the incorrupt body of St Catherine Laboure and also that of St. Vincent de Paul in the Church of Lazarites on Rue de Sevres. I knew that the experience strengthened their faith in God... that God exists! I was happy to have taken them to Lourdes where Our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette 18 times in 1858. Since then the place has been a a sanctuary visited by more than seven million pilgrims every year. The powerful sense of awe at Lourdes is in its atmosphere that is felt but remains undescribable with its afternoon Blessing of the Sick and the heartwarming nightly procession. I am consoled by the thought that the Lourdes experience will seep through their young hearts and psyche thus deepening their faith and strengthening it as they grow up in the midst of a modern but fractured world.

Growing older and enjoying the blessing of age is something I am most grateful for to our Almighty, the Giver of life! As such, I feel that my relationship with my God has grown into phenomenal heights! But there were also times this year when my faith was tested to such unthinkable pressure that signs of desperation crept in surreptitiously. It was most evident in times of illness when the anxiety over one's inability to finish a number of desired tasks became apparent. As of now, I am suffering from a very bad cold and cough that has robbed me of energy and zest for life. It all began right after Christmas and my constant coughing has really weakened me a lot. I am afraid I might not make it to the New Year! Leaving behind a multitude of problems to my loved ones is something I truly detest and such fear has overwhelmed me to unknown heights. I don't know why but somehow it seems that I have allowed my faith on "everything will work out good for those who love the Lord" to slowly slip away so that the feeling of helplessness added more misery to my aching body. As always, God sends relief. Yes, God's Word, the Bible is the Way and the Truth that lights our way! I sought and found solace in it. Now, do you ever wonder why I often say that one should know Jesus through His Word - the Holy Bible? To me and it should be for everyone else, the Bible is The Guide towards Life! It is the compass that directs our way - our thoughts and our deeds.

Oh..oh... I need to make an appointment with my doctor. He is also God's instrument for my healing!







































































s

December 12, 2010 - GAUDETE SUNDAYt

Today is the Third Sunday of Advent which is also called Gaudete Sunday or Rejoice Sunday. Gaudete is the Latin word for "Rejoice" the first word of the Introit or Entrance Prayer at Mass. Officiating priests at Mass wear rose-colored vestments signifying the joy of believers as they come halfway through the Advent Season anticipating the birth of our Savior.

November 25, 2010 THANKSGIVING DAY

Today is Thanksgiving Day ! Like most families in America, our family celebrated this special day with every member of the family enjoying roast turkey and a variety of goodies on the luncheon table. And the usual prayer of thanksgiving is said with much more fervor by each one before the sumptuous meal.

Our family Thanksgiving Day celebration was held in Bobby and Carla's home in Fremont. It was a most fitting place for the whole clan to be gathered since they had just finished the renovation of the house adding two rooms and enlarging the family room and kitchen. With the splendid contemporary look complete with brand-new appliances, we opt to enjoy Thanksgiving luncheon on the huge granite island in the spacious kitchen rather than in their formal dining room. To say that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the meal in such lavish surroundings would be an understatement!

While it is true that everyday we offer our gratitude to God for His many blessings and favor on us, still Thanksgiving Day is set aside for special prayers of thanks.

November 21,2010 - CHRIST, THE KING

The Solemnity of Christ, The King was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925 because most of the people of the day had practically thrust Jesus Christ and His teachings out of their lives. There was a distinct effort to cast aside the Ten Commandments out of the social and political arena. Freedom was being interpreted to mean license in various fields of endeavor. At that time, despotic rulers and systems began to take hold in Europe: Hitler, Mussolini and Lenin. Pope Pius XI wanted to assure the people with a sense of security through the rule of Jesus Christ over the chaos of tyranny. He went on to claim " that as long as individuals and states refused the Rule of our Savior Jesus Christ, there would be no real prospect for lasting peace among nations." This critique could have been written today, 2010, where a most replicating scenario exists - the serious crimes of abortion, euthanasia, divorce and other forms of darkness. Our present world is indeed shrouded with darkness. A philosopher defines " Darkness is the inability of the human race to do what it ought and it continues to find itself doing what it ought not."


One of the tasks of the early Christians was to show that Jesus Christ was truly the fulfillment of the religious expectations of the Jewish people. They did this by placing Him squarely in the heart of Israel's major traditions - genealogy. The people had a tremendous respect for family roots. Through genealogy, they spoke consistently on the ancestry of Jesus which is traced back to David - a much admired and considered ideal king. Hence Jesus Christ is King by birth!


Today, Christ, The King Sunday reminds us that there is a Monarch, a King, Who is both Just and Merciful; Whose kingdom is in stark contrast with the systems of this world - a Kingdom which transcends the wordly darkness.


The Kingdom of God is real - not in what we see. " It exists in the hearts of everyone who give themselves over to the King of Kings. It exists in the hearts of men and women who give themselves over to peace. It is because of the peace of that Kingdom that we, here and now, can promote justice. It is because of that peace that we stand against the killing of innocents or elderly or genocide elsewhere in this planet. "


That is what the kingdom of God means - Light Against Darkness !


We have hope in the truth of the Biblical passage, " The Light shone and the darkness could not comprehend it, could not extinguish it. "


The Readings and Gospel today add Titles to Jesus:


1. God's Beloved Son
2. Image Of The Invisible God
3. Firstborn Of All Creation
4. Head Of The Church
5. Messiah Of God
6. Before All Things
7. Firstborn From The Dead


Yes, He is all these and much...much more!

October 31, 2010 - ZACCHAEUS

The Gospel today is about the story of Zacchaeus, the tax collector who was eager to see Jesus of whom he has heard so much about. Being short in stature, he climbed a sycamore tree to get a better view of Jesus as He would pass by. Much to his surprise, Jesus looked up the tree and said , " Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house." He came down quickly and received Jesus with joy. When the people saw this, they began to grumble because Jesus has gone to stay at the house of a sinner. But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor and if I have extorted anything from anyone, I shall restore it four times over." And Jesus said to him, " Today, salvation has come to this house because this man, too, is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."

This Gospel story brings out some interesting facts we need to think about. Can you name one or two of them? Let me try:

1. The action of " Seeking " of finding out, searching for, knowing about or longing for, is present in both Jesus and Zacchaeus.

In Genesis, at the Garden of Eden, God asked, "Where are you?" as He looked for Adam. Since then God has been seeking man to love him, to care for him and to save him. And Jesus articulates it when He said that the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost. What about Zacchaeus? Being a man of position and of wealth, should he even be bothered by a lowly itinerant preacher? But Zacchaeus was different from the rest of his league, he was curious even desired to establish some contact with Jesus though only within the visual sense. Quite possibly, he wanted to know more of His teachings some of which he must have heard in the marketplace or elsewhere. So, Zacchaeus, too was seeking Jesus!

2. Being with Jesus brings unspeakable Joy !

Think of the times when you receive the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord in Holy Communion. Can you describe the joy and peace that reigns in your heart? How about the moments you spend with Jesus in silent Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament? Doesn't the joy of His Presence overflow you with unimaginable peace and contentment? Well, Zacchaeus was so overjoyed by the nearness of Jesus, both physically and spiritually in his heart that his generosity burst forth in torrents for the poor ( half of his possessions) and for those he may have overcharged or shortchanged in the exercise of his profession. The lesson here is crystal clear: Stay close to Jesus and you will experience joy in your heart - no matter what!

3. " Today," salvation has come to this house"

The Gospel passage speaks of "today" not tomorrow , not later or whenever when salvation can come into our lives. It is a sounding reminder for all of us that we make
our "today" a salvific experience with Jesus, that we never let 24 hours pass by without spending precious moments with our God. We should all be vigilant that our waking hours are not totally consumed by the busyness of our life though necessary they may be for daily existence thereby pushing asunder spiritual growth for ourselves and our young ones who need spiritual guidance at this time of their lives. The time for acknowledging Him as our Lord and Savior is now - Today !


4. The Sycamore Tree - An Encounter with Jesus

Pilgrimage sites are holy because of what happened there. For example, we have the Grotto of Lourdes, France where our Blessed Mother appeared to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858, Tepeyac in Mexico where She also showed herself to Juan Diego in 1531 and at 140 Rue de Bac, Paris, in the Chapel of the Daughters of Charity to Catherine Laboure in 1830. Mount Sinai is a pilgrimage site because it was the place where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and Mount Tabor, too, because of Jesus' appearance with Elijah and Moses at His Transfiguration. The Holy Land with Nazareth, Bethlehem and Jerusalem are places of pilgrimage because we encounter Jesus there. We might add to this list of holy places, the sycamore tree, because by climbing the sycamore tree in Jericho, Zacchaeus encountered Jesus which transformed him and saved him. Now who or what helps us encounter the living Jesus today? Who or what are our very own sycamore trees?

The Scriptures help us experience Jesus. Nature with its flora and fauna, the sky and the seas, the mountains and the rippling brooks and many more help us feel the Presence of Jesus. The saints and holy ones in heaven whose lives illumine us of God's grace and work in them so that we may respond gratefully and generously to God's blessings on us. They are the sycamore trees in our lives that help us encounter the living and transforming love of Jesus !

OCTOBER 21, 2010 LEAD ME, LORD

The Gospel last Sunday was on Prayer. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that prayer is raising one's mind and heart to God. In one of my older blogs during Lent, I have made a commentary on prayer. But as I deliberated on this important aspect of a Christian life, I was led to jot some lines of my own simple prayer :

LEAD ME, LORD

Lead me, Lord, to someone in need of Your tender touch
To ease discomfort and stress that illness brings
Whose longing for understanding at this time is much
But strengthened by fervent Faith in Your Divine Healing.

Lead me, Lord, to someone in need of comfort
To lift the veil of sorrow from a grieving heart
Over the loss of a loved one who has gone astray
Despite efforts to save a family torn apart.

Lead me, Lord, to someone who is utterly disappointed
With the life he has led amidst lost expectations
Plans of grandeur plunged deep totally grounded
Due to lifestyle of sloth and narcissistic addictions.

Lead me, Lord, to someone who is resentful and bitter
Full of contempt and hate to a brother or sister
How tragic these feelings have on his body deploy
A mind bereft of goodwill, forgiveness and joy.

Lead me, Lord, to a lonely, friendless stranger
Lost in the seeming jungle of his new adopted home
Froth with anxiety what the future may render
To a helpless, though hopeful heart, willing to work to the bone.

Lead me, Lord, to a disturbed teenager today
Confused by the standards the present world declare
The perversion of being human so flagrantly displayed
Along with worldly pleasures the innocent ones to ensnare.

Lead me, Lord, to someone hopeless ready to give up
After every effort to make family needs be met
Willing to work but no available job to tap
Frustrations mounting to dizzying heights all set.

Oh, God, help me to show the comfort of Your Presence
To be the "angel" you sent with resources on board
My time, my prayers and goods you give me in abundance
Will be heartily shared with them all for Your Glory, Oh, Lord !

OCTOBER 16, 2010 ST. MARGARET MARY

Today is the Feast Day of Margaret Mary Alacoque , the Visitacion nun in Paray- le- Monial, France to whom Our Most Sacred Heart of Jesus appeared. She was instrumental in initiating the First Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart and the celebration of the Holy Hour.

St. Margaret Mary was born on July 22, 1647 in France, died on October 17, 1690 and canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920.

From early childhood, she preferred silence and prayer over playing games. She received Holy Communion at age 9 and loved to read the lives of saint even thinking of being one someday. When she was still a young adolescent, she contracted paralysis which confined her in bed for four years. She made a vow to our Blessed Mother that she would become a nun if She would heal her. She got well. After a while, the death of her father caused her and her mother the most trying times in their lives. They were reduced to being servants by three very close relatives including a great grand-aunt. Everything was under lock and key so that hunger and deprivation of shelter and comfort were their constant companions. Marriage would have provided an escape from her miserable life but she would not accept it.

It was through some difficulty due to consent and dowry that she was able to enter the convent of the Visitation in Paray-le-Monial in France at age 24 after a vision of Jesus Christ Who reproached her of forgetfulness in claiming His Heart filled with love for her. In the convent, the Sacred heart visited her on December 27, 1673 and several times thereafter within 18 months. During one of the visits, Jesus permitted St. Mary Alacoque to rest her head against His Heart. The visions revealed the form of the First Friday Devotion which requires Holy Communion and the adoration of the Host during the Holy Hour. She was given the Promises of the Sacred Heart to those who practice the First Friday Devotion. Instructions to her specific Holy Hour on midnight of Thursday included mortification which she somehow had been doing by tying a very tight rope around her waist for so long that each time she removed it, bits of skin came off. Such was the case with the small iron chains she tied around her upper arms, too.

OCTOBER 15, 2010 ST. TERESA OF AVILA

Today is the Feast Day of St. Teresa of Avila, also known as St. Teresa of Jesus. She was a brilliant woman, a Spanish mystic, a Roman Catholic saint, a reformer of the Carmelite Order and an in-depth writer on Prayer as expounded in her book,
" The Interior Castle. "

I have written quite lengthily in my journal on St. Teresa of Avila along with my experiences in Avila, Spain in 1988, 1996, 2001 and in 2003.

Suffice it to say, that St. Teresa of Jesus was born on March 28, 1515 in Avila, Spain, died on October 15th in Alba de Tormes, Spain and canonized on March 12, 1622. She was declared Doctor of the Church, the first woman saint to hold such honor, in 1970 by Pope Paul VI. The Rule of the Carmelite Order which calls for extreme austerity is attributed to her reforms. She established many Carmelite monasteries in Spain naming the first one she founded after her favorite saint - St. Joseph. In addition, she wrote books of such profound mystical nature Church scholars praise and use.

A prolific writer, she wrote her Autobiography in 1567, the Interior Castle in 1577, the Way of Perfection, essays on the Concepts of Love and 342 letters which have all been acclaimed by many scholars. Her most known and often-quoted lines are:

Let nothing trouble you,
Let nothing make you afraid,
All things pass away,
God never changes
Patience obtains everything,
G O D alone is ENOUGH.


St. Teresa of Avila had a special regard for Holy Water. She knew by many experiences the power of this sacramental against evil spirits and temptations. She said, "There is nothing that puts the Devil to flight than Holy Water."

Knowing the excellent writings that she had produced, the Mother Prioress asked her to write a treatise on spirituality. She kept thinking of a particular topic to work on for a long time. Then, she had a vision of Jesus showing her a beautiful globe of crystal in the shape of a castle with seven rooms, the seventh at the center being occupied by the King of Glory with the most exquisite brilliancy which shone on the other rooms. The nearer the rooms lay to the center, the brighter the light and the farthest room got the least light. But around the castle was an area like a moat where there were many kinds of venomous animals (crocodiles, snakes,etc.). While still admiring its beauty, she was shaken when the crystal became totally dark and emitted a foul odor. Then it disappeared. She was so puzzled and moved by the experience!

From this vision, St. Teresa of Jesus learned four (4) important things:

1. She came to fully understand that God is present in all things by His essence, presence and power. She recalled St. Paul's words, "Sufferings of this time are not worthy compared to the glory to come that shall be revealed to us."

2. She was greatly surprised at the malice of sin and how it prevents the soul of partaking of God's powerful light.

3. She derived such humility and self-knowledge from the vision. From that moment on, she never thought of herself from the good she was doing. She further learned that the beauty and power of the soul and body are enlivened and strengthened by the power established in the center where comes all our good.

4. She derived from it the subject of the book she was ordered to write - on "Prayer."
Thus, was born one of the masterpieces of mystical theology ever written -
" The Interior Castle. "

St. Teresa of Avila wrote , " The Interior Castle, " as a guide for spiritual development through prayer and service. It is a journey of faith through seven mansions or rooms as in the vision ending with the union with God. In a nutshell, the mansions are :

1. Ordinary Prayer starts our relationship with God. It begins with the soul surrounded by sin and starting to seek God's grace through humility.

2. Mansion of the Practice of Prayer - The soul seeks to advance through the castle by daily thoughts of God by being more aware of God's presence.

3. Mansion of Exemplary Life - This is characterized by a love for God which is so great that the soul develops an aversion to mortal and venial sins and a desire to do charitable service to others for the glory of God.

4. Mansion of Contemplative Prayer - There is a "departure" from the soul actively acquiring what it gains as God increases His role in one's life.

5 and 6. Mansions of Incipient Union in which the soul prepares itself for the gifts of God. The soul spends increasing amounts of time torn between favors from God and from outside influences/afflictions. The fifth mansion can be compared to a "betrothal" and the sixth mansion can be compared to as "lovers."

7. Mansion of Spiritual Union - The soul achieves clarity in prayer and a spiritual marriage with God. This brightest mansion can only be gained by being in a state of grace through the sacraments, fervent devotion of the soul's will to Him and humbly seeing God's undefinable, incomprehensible love!

St. Teresa of Avila thought throughout all her writings of the ascent of the soul in four stages :

1. Mental Prayer - Devout concentration in prayer which can be helped by the exercise of penitence and the recall of the Passion of Jesus Christ.

2. Prayer of Quiet - An effort of the human will to be lost in God while other faculties such as memory, reason and imagination are not yet secure from worldly distractions. Partial distraction may be due to memory and imagination continue to wander.

3. Devotion of Union - Here there is an absorption of reason in God. This stage is characterized in blissful peace and conscious rapture in the love of God.

4. Devotion of Ecstasy - This is the passive state in which the consciousness of being in the body disappears. Memory and imagination are also absorbed/intoxicated in God. Sense activity ceases and the body and spirit are in a sweet happy pain between fiery glow and unconsciousness such that the body is literally lifted into space. In a number of times, St. Teresa of Avila was observed to "levitate" in ecstasy during Mass. Some other saints, like St. Francis of Assisi, have been seen to levitate while in prayer, too.

The Monastery of the Incarnation in Avila, Spain has many relics of St. Teresa of Jesus including the piece of log which she used as a pillow, the big wooden chest she brought from home to the convent and her favorite almost a foot and a half tall crucifix made from corn cobs from Mexico. A cordoned section of the stairs can be seen where the Child Jesus appeared to her and asked, "Who are you?" The saint said, "I am Teresa of Jesus," and in turn asked the Child, "Who are you?" to which came the reply, "I am Jesus of Teresa."





















S

OCTOBER 13, 2010 - OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Today is the Feast of Our Lady Of Fatima, the 93rd anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun witnessed by around 75,000 people in Fatima, Portugal in 1917. This is a special day in honor of our Mother Mary in her attribute as Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary.

I thought it a most fitting tribute to Her to write about one of my many interesting experiences in Fatima which I have been privileged to visit for nine times already. In my older posts, I have related the proverbial October 13th rain during my first visit in 1988. I have also shared my participation in leading a decade of the rosary in Tagalog during a celebration with an international theme. My visit to Fatima with my husband, Rey, (may he rest in peace) in 1999 has been chronicled in my journal, too.

"It would be most fitting to dedicate a few lines of poetry to Mother Mary today," I
mused. So armed with a notebook and pen, I sat down to do just that. But my flow of thoughts streamed down to Jesus, her Son. Once, twice, I tried to redirect my attention to my original plan but to no avail. It was a concrete evidence that Our Lady leads us to Jesus!

Guided by Our Lady of Fatima, I managed to compose these lines:

LET ME BE, OH, LORD

Let me be , Oh, Lord, your kind, caring hands
Stretched out to render aid to the needy and forlorn
To extend your soft healing touch and unbind
The tight grip of fear, pain and shameless scorn.

Let me be, Oh, Lord, your strong, steady feet
To walk with those in bondage and addiction
And with courage borne from your protective feat
Strengthen them to rise, break the chain of affliction.

Let me be, Oh, Lord, your loving, searching eyes
That see a friend's pain and sorrow beneath the mask
Which often shows mirth on the surface, but, alas
There lies a wounded heart which cries for help to rush.

Let me be, Oh, Lord, your soothing voice that counsels
The young, the indifferent, " sophisticated " wards
Who are ensnared by worldly pleasures and vices
Unmindful of Eternity's justice and rewards.

Let me be, Oh, Lord, your keen ears that listen
To the pleas of the poor for daily needs so common
Muted by disillusion, shame and false pride unspoken
Beneath stone-faced mien of utter despair and abandon.

Let me be, Oh, Lord, the face that radiates your Love
Through my deep wrinkles, blotches, disfigured state
Shield me from the fear of ridicule and hate which matches
My intense desire to be an "apostle" of my faith.

So, help me, Lord, in my commitment to leave
A Legacy of Faith to family, friends and all
Be aware of God's Presence at all times and to give
Time, Talent and Treasure in response to His call !

October 4, 2010 - ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI

Today is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi who is perhaps the most well-known and best-loved saint in both the Catholic and non-Catholic world. He was born into a wealthy family since his father was a cloth merchant and his mother a member of the nobility. Living the life of the carefree rich, he was among the singing troubadours of the young nobles in Assisi. He delighted in fine clothes and showy display of the excesses which the rich and famous could afford.

A turning point in his life occurred when he entered, out of curiosity, a rundown village church of San Damiano. As he looked around the dilapidated building, he heard a voice coming from a crucifix, "Go, Francis, repair my house which you see is

falling in ruins." Moved to action, he sold some of his father's merchandise and donated the proceeds to the priest who initially hesitated to accept the offering. Then he slowly, brick by brick repaired the church out of the sweat of his brow- by begging. He was totally convinced that the message was for the physical repair of the church. Little did he knew then that it also, in fact really meant, the "repair" of the organizational life of the Catholic Church in which he eventually played a significant role. Poverty, Chastity and Obedience became the Rule of the community he founded which is now known as Franciscan Friars.

Slowly the Gospel message especially of humility and helping the poor found a place in his heart. He nourished his greatest desire to walk in the way of Truth. To him, Love was the truest of all truths. He claimed, "What a man is in the sight of God - so much is he and no more!" Peace became his watchword. His passion was to restore tranquility to those hearts torn asunder by civil strife. He went to Egypt in 1219 and met with Sultan Melek El Kamel and his subjects offering peace. Though he was not able to convert the Sultan, his visit with him had a far-reaching effect since after the fall of the Crusader Kingdom, it would be the Franciscans, of all Catholics, who were allowed to stay in the Holy Land and be recognized as the "Custodians of the Holy Land" on behalf of the Christian world.

At this point, I remember, "The Prayer of St. Francis." Do you remember the lyrics?

Make me a channel of your peace

Where there is hatred, let me bring you love

Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord

Where there is doubt, true faith in you.

Oh, Master, grant that I may never seek

So much to be consoled as to console

To be understood as to understand

To be loved as to love with all my soul.

Make me a channel of your peace

It is in giving of ourselves that we receive

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned

In dying we are born to eternal life.

Assisi, Italy is a place where the spirit of St. Francis is so mysteriously present that mere words cannot express. One has to be physically present there to feel the ambiance of the place and thereby be enveloped with the embrace of the Franciscan stigmatist. A pilgrim's visit will almost always be followed by a second one. In my case, I had to have a third visit and the desire to be back still lingers at the back of my mind.

The long white-washed row of arches that form the back of the St. Francis Monastery perched on the verdant Umbrian hill first greets the pilgrims to Assisi. The enchanting, tranquil scene against the meandering clouds of the breathtaking blue of the sky evokes the chorus of "Ohs and Ahs" of every visitor- first-timers and second-timers,etc. alike. Pastoral scenery can and are often seen in different places of the globe especially in Europe but somehow this scene in Assisi belongs to a class all its own. Could it be that it is so because of the blessing of Assisi given by St. Francis weeks before his death?

PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN & LAZARUS

The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus tells the story of a man who enjoyed the luxury of his wealth. At his doorstep stayed a poor beggar named Lazarus whose hunger would have been satisfied by the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table. Both of them died. Lazarus was carried by angels to the bosom of Abraham while the rich man suffered the torment of his place in the netherworld. Father Abraham denied the rich man's request for a dip of water from Lazarus because of a chasm between them. He also denied the request to warn the rich man's five brothers of their lifestyle which will eventually lead them to the place of torment.

The parable has some significant points to consider:

1.The Sin of Omission on the part of the rich man- He failed to share his blessings with the needy (Lazarus). He was so self-centered, totally obsessed with the I-Me-Myself syndrome that he hardly noticed the existence of Lazarus. Such indifference/ insensitivity to his neighbor's needs in the midst of the rich man's bounty led to his assigned fate of timeless torment and pain. The Bible refers to God's message about indifference and the people who are indifferent, " I shall vomit you from my mouth."

This reminded me of parts of a poem I learned in Grade VI ( ages ago ) called " The Sin of Omission" by Margaret Sangster ( that's the poet's name, I remember ):

It isn't the thing you do, Dear,

It's the thing you leave undone

That gives you a bit of heartache

At the setting of the sun.

The tender word forgotten

The letter you did not write

The flowers you might have sent, dear,

Are your haunting ghosts tonight.

As children of God, let us always remember to share our blessings of time, talent and treasure with others. Also, to be always aware of the fact that we are judged not only by what we do, by what we cause others to do and, more importantly, but by what we F A I L to do!

Matthew 25: 40 says " Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for Me." Our Catholic Church provides avenues for works of mercy into two categories:

1. Corporal Works of Mercy ( oriented to the Body )

= To feed the hungry

= To give drink to the thirsty

= To clothe the naked

= To shelter the homeless

= To visit the sick

= To ransom the captiv

= To bury the dead

2. Spiritual Works of Mercy ( oriented to the Soul )

= To bear wrongs patiently

= To forgive offences willingly

= To comfortt the afflicted

= To pray for the living and the dead

And for those who are specially skilled and trained:

= To instruct the ignorant

= To counsel the doubtful

= To admonish sinners

2. Life After death through our Immortal Soul - We believe that life does not end by death; it is only changed; there is life after death! Despite the separation of the immortal soul from the physical body, its " memory " continues to exist (the rich man remembering his five brothers). In addition, the rich man " interceded " for the welfare of his brothers. Thus, while the souls of the faithful departed can no longer pray for themselves, they can intercede for the living.

3. God's Judgment is Received Upon Death - According to the teachings of our Church Fathers (St. Mark Eugenieus played a starring role) from the Council of Ferrara-Florence, the souls of the dead are judged and assigned to the Biblical Hades or Sheol which is actually a place for both the "good" and the "bad." The souls of the righteous and the repentant are conducted by angels to the right side while the souls of those considered "bad" are confined on the left side. The place is a foretaste of both heaven and hell. In the other life, this place, everyone will see God and His Glory which means that the Light of God will shine upon all of them. But Divine Light will shine on the Righteous giving them peace and communion with God while the Unrighteous will experience the Caustic Burning Energy of the Light which causes pain and torment. Thus, according to the degree of their "cure" or "illness" people's souls receive the same Grace either as Light or as Fire.

Remember what Christ said about the coming Judgment, " All will see the Judge, all will converse with Him, but some will enjoy His Glory and others will experience the caustic energy of His Divine Grace."

The Second Coming of Christ will be the Final Judgment when final damnation or Hell begins. Therefore, we need to pray for the souls of the faithful departed especially for those who do not have anyone to pray for them.

4. The Existence of Angels - The parable clearly states the presence of the angels in conducting Lazarus to the bosom of Abraham and of leading souls to their respective places in "Hades" or "Sheol."

Angels were first mentioned in Scripture in Genesis 3:24 which relates the fall of man and Adam and Eve's departure from Eden. God placed the Cherubim, an angel and the flaming sword to guard the way to the Tree of Life. Angels are spiritual beings who serve as warriors fighting God's battles as St. Michael, the messengers of God's Word or healing as St. Gabriel and St. Raphael and generally as protectors of God's creation. The Seraphim,, the highest tier of angels surround our Lord with songs of praise endlessly. It is our Catholic belief that every human being born into this world is given a Guardian Angel by God. Hence, we should invoke our Guardian Angels daily for his protection and help.

"

THE PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL SON

Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines "prodigal" as recklessly extravagant, lavish, yielding abundantly, profuse. The term can be used both in the positive and negative sense. The younger son in the parable was extravagant in a negative way while the father was extravagant in a positive way.

The favorite Christian symbol of the Early Church was of a joyful shepherd carrying a sheep in his back between the shoulders. The image showed clearly the heart of God in His readiness to welcome repentant sinners. It brings to light the Gospel truth of a good and rejoicing God (Shepherd) and His previously terrified sinners (sheep) restored to His fold.

Free will is God's gift to each and everyone of us. Our gift of free will is always with us. Everyday of our lives is filled with moments calling for decisive action. Whether we respond to satisfy our worldly desires as instant gratification or to honor a conviction/value which may require discomfort, pain and sacrifice depends upon the exercise of our free will. Even in extreme circumstances as in concentration camps or prison halls, our choice of action is at play. As Viktor Frankl, scientist and survivor of Auschwitz said," Between the stimulus and response is a space - a space where you have the power of choice to act, as whether to give a dying man your only day's meal of a bowl of soup or not."

In the parable of the Prodigal Son, the younger son freely asked and received his inheritance, left his home for parts unknown and squandered his money on loose living. The son believed that he deserved his inheritance and that his father owed him his inheritance. Likewise, some of us children of God have the mistaken notion that we deserve and merit the blessings that are given to us. It is folly to think of God's gift as debts owed to us! This is a sinful state, a departure from the true essence of God's love. Such a state will undeniably lead to the ruin of man by sin.

The father in the parable complied with the younger son's wish to get his inheritance for immediate use. This compliance, though rarely granted in Jewish society, showed the father's attitude to the freedom of choice. It showed his willingness to do things out of love. It is this unconditional love that caused him to welcome wholeheartedly his "wayward" son which must have caused him undue pain and worry. The father in this parable represents God whose incomprehensible, unchanging and unconditional love for His people is beyond understanding. He welcomes each and everyone of us who truly repents back into His fold. How truly great is our God !!!

This parable always brings to mind, one of my favorite daily prayers :

The 23rd Psalm

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want
In verdant pastures, He gives me repose,
Beside restful waters He leads me; He refreshes my soul
He guides me in right paths for His names's sake
Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil for you are at my side
With your rod and your staff that give me courage
You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows
Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life
And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.

HOLY COMMUNION PRAYERS

In addition to the earlier blog on prayers I have used for so many years, are the following:

BEFORE HOLY COMMUNION (Said after the Act of Contrition)

Oh my Jesus, I believe in you, increase my faith
Oh my Jesus, I trust in You, strengthen my trust
Oh my Jesus, I love you, let me love you more and more.
Oh my Jesus, I am sorry for my sins, deepen my sorrow.
Oh my Jesus, I hope in you in all things, I thank you in all thngs.

I worship you as my first beginning
I long for you as my last end
I call on you as my constant companion
I praise you as my loving protector.

Guide me with your wisdom
Correct me with your justice
Comfort me with your mercy
Protect me with your power.

Lord, I offer my thoughts to you
My words to have you as my theme
My actions to reflect my love for you
My sufferings to be endured for your greater glory.

Help me to do what you ask of me
In the way you ask
For as long as you ask
Because you ask it.

AFTER HOLY COMMUNION

Lord, I believe I have received your Body, your Blood, your Soul,
your Divinity. Thank you, Lord, for coming into my life. Wash away my iniquities, O Lord, and cleanse me from my sins.

Anima Christi

Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Blood of Christ, inebriate me
Water from the side of Christ, wash me
Passion of Christ, strengthen me
Oh, good Jesus, hear me
Within Thy wounds hide me
Suffer me not to be separated from Thee
From the malignant enemy, defend me
At the hour of my death, call me
Bid me come to Thee
That I with Thy saints I may praise Thee forever and ever. Amen.

PRAYER BEFORE THE CRUCIFIX
(Plenary Indulgence When Said After Holy Communion)

Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus
As before Thy feet I humbly kneel
And with burning soul pray and beseech Thee
To fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope and charity
True contrition for my sins, a firm purpose of amendment
The while I contemplate, pondering within me
The words which your servant David said of Thee, dear Jesus
"They pierced my hands and my feet
They have numbered all my bones."

( Say 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and 1 Glory be to the Father)

In these recent blogs, I have shared the prayers that have been the core of my moments with God. They help nourish my intimate relationship with Him. After all, isn't a living relationship with our Creator the purpose for which we were created?

True,we can have a belief in God- a connection that God exists but still have a "broken" relationship with Him. For example, there are Sunday-worshipper-Catholics who are actually tainted with sins that are seriously in opposition to God's commandments, as some legislators who support abortion. When we proclaim we believe in God as in the Creed in Sunday Liturgy, we say that we have a dynamic movement/effort to surrender our lives towards God and His teachings. Our belief is a "plunging-in", a "no-holds-barred" obedience to our Faith, as St. Paul declares. That is why, it is important to be vigilant in nourishing our relationship with God daily. Absence of these daily moments with God can slowly dampen your devotion to Him. Growing cold spiritually can slowly but surely ruin your relationship with your Lord and Savior.

I sound like a broken record in this regard but as the quality of everyday life in this era of phenomenal technology and demanding family, office and social obligations cramp up your daily hours, it requires deliberate
"discipline" to live the Christian life. A healthy spiritual dimension of your life is like the rudder that helps you sail the sea of life amidst its inevitable storms and tempests along the way.You can discern how to stand firm in your faith through winds of adversity. More importantly, the walk with God begins with prayer and the moments you share with Him provide the opportunity for God to reveal Himself to you! As your intimate relationship with Him develops, you grow closer and the more you'll trust Him. This is true in any relationship as with a friend. The more time you spend with a friend and learn more about him/her, the more likely you will trust and rely upon him/her. As your relationship with God blossoms, your trust in Him grows, then you become confident that nothing happens in your life without the knowledge, permission and purpose of GOD.

Hence, renew your commitment to God - Daily, an

Invaluable Discipline !!!

MY FAVORITE PRAYERS

In answer to Marissa's question, "Mom, what are your favorite prayers?" I have decided to share them with all of you. These are prayers I have learned by heart and used for so many years!

Morning Prayers

Oh Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer Thee my prayers, works, joys, sufferings of this day for all the intentions of the Sacred Heart, in union with the sacrifice of the Mass celebrated through out the world , in reparation for all my sins, for all the intentions of my associates and in particular, for the intentions of the Holy Father. Amen.

Lord, I lay all my plans before you today. Help me to accomplish them according to your will. Help me to see you in all the people I will meet today and help them to see you in me.

Oh, that you would bless me and every member of my family (I name everyone) indeed and enlarge our territory; that your Hand would be with each of us and that you would keep us from evil; that we may not cause pain. Please bless us Lord with wisdom, health of mind and body and gifted hands. Thank you, Lord , for all your blessings. Praise the Lord. Alllelulia!

Oh, my Queen, Oh, my Mother, I give myself entirely to Thee

And to show my devotion to Thee, I consecrate to Thee this day

My eyes, my ears, my heart, my whole being without reserve

Wherefore dear Mother, as I am Thine own

Keep me, guard me as Thy property and possession. Amen.

Evening Prayers

Thank you, Lord, for this day especially for ( specify). Thank you for helping me in (specify instances). I am sorry for the sins and failures I have committed today (specify).

Oh, my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee

And I detest all my sins because I dread the loss of Heaven and the pains of hell

But most of all because I offended Thee, my God

Who art so good and deserving of all my love

I firmly resolve to confess my sins, to do penance and to amend my life. Amen.

Now, I lay my body down to sleep, I pray my Lord my soul to keep. And if I die before I wake, I pray my Lord, my soul to take.

Daily Prayers

The Lord is my Shepherd, There is nothing I shall want

In verdant pastures He gives me repose, Beside restful waters He leads me

He refreshes my soul, He guides me in the right path for His name's sake

Yea, though I walk in the dark valley, I fear no evil

Thy rod and Thy staff give me courage

Thou preparest a table before me in the sight of my foes

Thou anointest my head with oil, My cup runneth over

Truly, goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life

And I shall dwell in the House of my Lord

For years to come. ( Psalm 23 )

Learning Christ

Teach me, O Lord, to be sweet and gentle in all events of life

In disappointments and in sorrow

In the thoughtlessness of others

In the insincerity of those whom I trust

In the unfaithfulness of those upon whom I rely

Let me put myself aside to think of the happiness of others

To hide my little pains and heartaches so that I may be the only one to suffer from them

Teach me to profit from every suffering that comes across my path

Let me so use it that it may mellow me not harden and embitter me

That it may make me broad in my forgiveness, not narrow, haughty or overbearing

May no one be less good for having come within my influence

No one less true, less noble for having been a fellow traveler in my journey to eternal life

As I go my rounds from one distraction to another

Let me from time to time whisper a word of love to you

May my life be lived in the supernatural

Full of power for good and strong in its purpose of sanctity.

Prayer to the Sacred Heart (1)

Oh, Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place my trust in you

Whatever may befall me, Lord, though dark the hour may be

In all my joys, in all my woes, though naught but grief I see

Oh, Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place my trust in you.

When all I love have passed away and I am sore distressed

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I fly to Thee for rest

In all my trials great or small, my confidence shall be

Unshaken as I cry, "I place my trust in you!"

This is my own sweet prayer, dear Lord, my faith, my trust, my love

But most of all in that last hour when death points up above

Ah, my sweet Savior, may Thy face smile on my soul set free

Oh, may I cry with rapturous love, "I have placed my trust in Thee!"

Prayer to the Sacred Heart (2)

O Most Holy Heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing

I adore you, I love you and with a lively sorrow for my sins

Offer you this poor heart of mine

Make me humble, patient, pure, holy and obedient to your will

Grant that I may live in you and for you

Protect me in the midst of danger

Comfort me in my affliction

Assistance in my temporal needs

Health of mind and body

Your blessing in all that I do

And the grace of a holy death. Amen.

Prayer to Sto. Nino

O Miraculous Infant Jesus, prostrate before Thy sacred image

We beseech Thee to cast a merciful look on our troubled hearts

Let your tender heart so inclined to pity be softened by our prayers

And grant us the grace for which we ardently implore Thee

Take from us all illness and misery, all trials and misfortune for which we are laden

For your Sacred Infancy's sake, hear our prayers

And send us your consolation and aid

That we may praise Thee forever and ever. Amen.

Prayer to the Icon of Jesus

O Jesus, my God and my All, Your eyes are focused on me

To ease the pain and bitter sorrow, To strengthen me for my tomorrow.

To tell me I am a chosen vessel, For the blessings your righteous hand bestows

Blessings to enjoy and share with others, Be multiplied among God's members.

To assure me the pleadings of my contrite heart, You heard them all right from the start

The sins and frivolities of my youth, Forgiven, all brokenness now healed in truth.

To affirm your Divine Favor upon me, And to every member of my family

The wisdom, discernment and compassion we hold, All come from your favor on us, O Lord.

I thank you, dear Jesus for your mercy and love

I thank you for your loving care from above

I thank you for all the blessings you give

Always I will thank you as long as I live.

Prayer For a Happy Death

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of life and for the blessing to be among those who

know you are the Son of God

Thank you for my sight that makes me see all the wondrous things you have made

and for my soul that helps me see beyond my sight

Thank you for all things especially my heart in which you placed magnetic seeds of

grace that draw me forever nearer to your love

Yet, as the years go by, Lord, I worry for the yoke and pain how my life would end

When the time comes for me to leave here below

Do not call me by a sudden death

Not by an accident that tears the body apart

Not by an illness that leaves the mind confused and the senses impaired

Not by a malady that wears out the soul or at the mercy of evil forces

Not alone, abandoned without love or care

Not by my own hand in a moment of despair

Jesus, let Death come as a gentle Friend

To sit and linger with me, for a short while, until you call my name

Then let me enter your Heavenly Home and be near you forever

And see the countenance of your Holy Face.

Augus 20, 2010 - MY SISTER, DING

August is a special month for me because it is the birthday month of two persons I have loved so dearly. My sister, Ding, was born on the 20th of August and my husband, Rey, on the 31st of the same month. My appreciation and thanksgiving to both of them have been so deep and long-lasting. In fact, I have made known to them these feelings in so many words and ways while they were still alive. Somehow, I feel it necessary to let my children and grandchildren know some of the reasons why they were special to me.


August 20, 2010 - A Tribute To My Sister, Ding


Dearest Ding, this humble tribute is so long overdue
To one who was a mother-figure pure and true
Someone from whom we sought guidance and help
Always willing to give time, treasure and self.


Totally committed, unselfish beyond words
Firm and constant as the umbilical cord
That seamless bond which ties siblings from one womb
To be loving, loyal to each other till the tomb.


So patient were you in helping us study
Develop good habits of work in life early
Your discipline for us was of a special tie
That we knew what you meant just by the look in your eye.


Some thought of you so strict in training young minds
As a teacher in school and at home by design
Yet your heart was soft, tender to those who came
For help, service and monetary gain.


It was not your nature to turn a deaf ear
To a pleading voice you allay all fear
You often told us about God and His Grace
We grew up seeing Him in your daily ways.


You stayed close to me at my darkest hour
When my family came to America stripped of all power
The abiding gift of love, concern and provision
You poured lavishly on us without hesitation.


Time and time again you reminded us often
To be alone with the Lord each day as a token
And honor, adore Him with praise and thanksgiving
For His merciful love, protection and blessing.

PARIS - AT THE LOUVRE - JUNE 29 - 2010

            PARIS & THE LOUVRE
                      June 29, 2010

True to my promise to take every grandchild to Paris and Lourdes as a gift for graduating from Grade VIII, I took Michael, the honoree, to the fascinating City of Light last June. Christian who has excelled in playing the piano deserved a reward so that he came with us along with my son, Bobby and Carla. In June 2003, Diana, my first grandchild, graduated Valedictorian at the Holy Spirit Catholic School in Fremont, California. We both joined a 16-day tour of France, Portugal and Spain. Last year, I took Joshua and Christina, both Grade VIII graduates from St. Ignatius Catholic School and Holy Spirit Catholic School, respectively, to Paris, Lourdes and Lisiuex, France. Tiffany joined us since she won awards in Gymnastics. Can you imagine a 78-year old woman roaming the streets of Paris with three children (12,13 and 14-year old) amid the teeming crowd of tourists, locals, gypsies, bag-snatchers, thieves, gaukers, etc.? To think that we often made use of the Metro (subway) as our means of transport in our visits to the most known tourist attractions in the city. Truly, there is a God Who takes care of us !

The visit to the Louvre is a must for any tourist in Paris since it has one of the most extensive art collections in the world. It is said that if one is to look at a painting, sculpture or any art form just for a few seconds (a studied glance), it would take seven months to view everything at the Louvre. Among its treasures is the famous Mona Lisa with her enigmatic smile painted by Leonardo da Vinci, the Venus de Milo and the sculptured Winged Victory of Samothrace from the 1600's. Several collections of paintings from acclaimed artists, Rembrandt, Reubens,
Van Gogh, Matisse, Dali, to name a few, adorn its walls. Egyptian, Italian and art from many countries abound in many rooms of the Louvre, a repository of man's limitless creativity.

The attached picture was taken inside the Glass Pyramid of the Louvre which was designed by Mei Pei and constructed in the more recent 1900's. The Louvre was originally built as a palace by one of France's early kings, King Louis IX. Succeeding members of his dynasty continued to add major art collections and consequently enlarged the palace so that now it occupies enough land space to cover a whole town. It is that huge

I have visited the Louvre for a number of times so that I decided to let Bobby, Carla, Michael and Christian to go about the place principally to view the Mona Lisa and the painting of the Wedding Feast of Cana which is acknowledged as the biggest painting in the Louvre occupying a long wide wall from top to bottom. It took seven years to finish and hangs right in front of the original Mona Lisa across the hall. Besides, I was so drained from the daily hectic itinerary we had been following.

The Glass Pyramid is in the courtyard framed by a huge pond with the dancing waters of several fountains. It houses the receiving and exiting area of musuem visitors. Hence, it is a proverbial beehive! Low rectangular platforms which can serve both as table and bench line some walls. I espied one such platform where a woman was lying down asleep. I was emboldened to follow suit despite the crowd in unstoppable movement around. I felt secure in my anonymity!

As God willed it, I saw a platform undisturbed by any occupant seemingly saying, "This one is for you!" God knew I needed to replenish my energy! I tried to lay flat decently and proper making sure that I wound my purse handles around my arm close to my chest. Then I was off to Dreamland - right at the Louvre! After almost two hours, Michael and Christian woke me up. I opened my eyes and saw the backs of a row of people sitting around me. Feeling so refreshed after the much-needed nap, I just smiled with the funny thought that now I can honestly say,"

" I slept at the Louvre!"

August 15, 2010 - Assumption of Our Blessed Mother

Today is the Feast of the Assumption of Our Blessed Mother. This is the oldest liturgical feast devoted to our Blessed Mother Mary having been instituted in the 3rdCentury.This honor given to Mary, Mother of God was bestowed on her asserts that, " Mary, the Mother of Jesus, upon the end of her earthly life, was assumed, body and soul, into heaven and there , now, reigns in glory with Her Son."

Our honor of Mary is based on God's significant grace given Her who was to be the Mother of His Son. Do you remember the time a woman told Jesus, "Blessed is the womb that bore you?" and Jesus answered, "Blessed is he who hears my Word and keeps it." Well, Mary, being the first who believed in Him- the first Christian- heard Jesus' Word and kept it alive in Her heart. Hence, She brings everyone to Christ. We venerate Her. So, devotion to Mary inevitably leads to complete worship and adoration of Jesus Christ. Her every act from the care she gave to the Infant Child, watching Him make His first steps to Her suffering with Him on the Via Dolorosa and at the foot of the Cross reasonate for years, nay, ages to come. Her every act flow through limitless time, nourishing and regenerating whoever She touches. She gives us all the unique gift to bend, grow and change in the illuminating light of Christ. She is the beacon of faith for us. She encourages us to have faith, deep, unshakable faith for it is the channel through which we receive God's Grace. Therefore, let us all accept Her gift and be transformed to the true likeness of God upon which we were created.

August 14, 2010 - Feast of St. Maximillian Kolbe

Today is the Feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Martyr of Auschwitz. He gave true meaning to Jesus' words, "BLESSED IS HE WHO LAYS DOWN HIS LIFE TO A FRIEND."

August 11, 2010 - Feast of St. Clare of Assisi

Today is the Feast of St. Clare of Assisi, one of my Guardian Angels and hard-working intercessors in heaven! She has such a listening ear and a willing heart to help that I practically grew up with her, so to speak. Since my elementary school years, I remember my visits to the Santa Clara Monastery with my mother who was so close to St. Clare. Mother had always something for the nuns and on some occasions, we brought dozens of eggs. I thought that eggs were the nuns' favorite food until my Mom explained that it was a traditional offering when a devotee to Santa Clara wants to request "good weather" for an up and coming family celebration. It really worked! I guess my mother's devotion to her rubbed on me and was made "perfect" by my visits to the picturesque medieval hill town of Assisi.

St. Clare was born in Assisi, Italy on July 16, 1194, died on August 11, 1253 and was canonized on September 26, 1255. She was the eldest daughter of a noble family who owned a castle in the town. Early in life, she was devoted to prayer. She was 18 when St. Francis preached the Lenten course in church. The words of St. Francis kindled a flame in her heart. She began to seek counsel from St. Francis who helped her in her chosen vocation. On the night of Palm Sunday, March 20, 1212, Clare with her aunt, Bianca and a friend went to the Porziuncula, the little chapel and headquarters of St. Francis. She laid aside her fine clothes. St. Francis, having cut her hair, clothed her with with a rough tunic and a thick veil. Pilgrims can still see today, the beautifully embroidered beige dress Clare wore to church that Palm Sunday as well as her wonderfully preserved locks of blond hair in a room in the Basilica of Santa Chiara in Assisi. The San Damiano crucifix which "spoke" to St. Francis is also in this room.

St. Francis brought Clare to the Benedictine nuns where her father tried several times to take her back. Part of her initiation was to go begging for food for forty days. She did the task without any remorse. Some 16 days after her own flight, Clare was joined by her younger sister, Agnes, whom she was instrumental in delivering from their infuriated relatives. It is said that relatives came to forcibly get Agnes but they could not lift her. Agnes became so heavy so that even several men could not move her an inch. Many attributed the miracle to Clare and her prayers. Clare and her group remained with the Benedictine nuns until they were established by St. Francis in a crude dwelling adjacent to the Chapel of San Damiano which he repaired. Thus was founded the first Community of Poor Clares as they came to be called. Clare had the consolation of not only seeing her other sister, Beatrix, her mother Ortolana, and her aunt Bianca follow Agnes into the Order but also of witnessing monasteries of Poor Clares all over Europe. St. Clare's Rule of Order followed the Franciscan character of absolute poverty - a complete renunciation of all property, even holding property in common. St. Clare was the living copy of the poverty, humility and mortification of St. Francis whose Rule of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience, she followed to the letter.

She was devoted to the Holy Eucharist such that she subsisted on the Sacred Host only for weeks and months. She is often depicted in art as carrying the monstrance with the Sacred Host because of an incident which happened in 1234 - The Miracle of the Eucharist in Assisi.

Frederick II of Germany had disagreements with the Pope. He recruited a band of Saracens (Muslims) to march against Assisi, a Catholic stronghold. The virgin nuns appealed to them so that they decided to attack San Damiano first. The invaders were ready to scale the walls when in terror the nuns informed St. Clare on her sickbed. With some help and in fervent prayer, St. Clare got the monstrance from their little chapel, proceeded to an open window facing the courtyard where the Saracens had already entered. She raised the monstrance with the Sacred Host. The Saracens froze in their tracks, turned back and fled. They never set foot in the town. Assisi was saved!

Do you know the origin of "Hot Cross Buns?" In 1228, Pope Gregory IX went to Assisi for the canonization of St. Francis. He visited St. Clare and her community. By noontime, the nuns laid out the only provision they had for lunch - pieces of stale bread. St. Clare asked the Pope to bless the bread who declined. The Pope asked her to do the honors. Out of humility, she said she was a sinner and could not possibly bless the bread in the presence of the Pope. So, she was "ordered" to give the blessing. With shut eyes, the assembly prayed. Afterwards, they gasped in amazement for a cross had formed on each piece of bread. Thus, we have Hot Cross Buns!

During my second visit to Assisi in 1997 with my friends Vangie Chaves and Gloria Reyes (may she rest in peace) something happened which, to me, was a miracle. The tour bus trip from Rome to Assisi was delayed by more than four hours due to a construction work on the freeway. We arrived early evening when the churches were about to close. Despite the unforeseen emergency, the tour guide insisted that our bus would still leave at 8 AM the next morning as scheduled. Protests from pilgrims went wild. I took up the issue with him until he agreed to stay at least till 9 o'clock in the morning. Adherence to time was a must!

Out of Assisi has blossomed the sanctity of two known saints, St. Francis and St. Clare. As such, two imposing basilicas in their honor receive the millions of pilgrims
who visit yearly. It became evident that our group would only be able to visit the Basilica of St Francis and his tomb in the crypt. We would also miss the chance of seeing the incorrupt body of St. Clare and the cross which "spoke" to St. Francis in the Basilica of Santa Chiara. I did not like that! I was resolved to take Vangie and Gloria to the end of the hilltown where the basilica stood- happen what may! Gloria asked to be excused from my planned "adventure." Anita Tremolada and husband joined us.

Hence, very early the next morning, the "adventurers" left our hotel to walk uphill towards the resting place of St. Clare. My prayers for help were unceasing as we trekked the rocky main thoroughfare of Assisi. It dawned on me that at the pace we were going it would be impossible to accomplish our plan in time for the departure of the tour bus. To think that I had a heated argument with the tour guide! My heartbeat went wild like the Indian drums on a warpath! I called on all my intercessors in heaven especially St. Clare. Then I hoped for a car or any vehicle to pass by so that we could request for a ride. To show that we were appreciative of the ride anyone would give us, I held a crispy $10 bill in my hand. No sooner had I tucked the bill between my fingers when a small car made a turn on the road towards us. I immediately waved to the lady who obligingly took us to the basilica. My monetary offer was vehemently declined. We were very grateful!

The early morning hymns of the nuns which sounded like a choir of angels filled the empty, dimly lit basilica. I showed them the huge San Damiano Cross, the Palm Sunday dress of St. Clare, her crop of wavy blond hair and the other museum pieces. Then we walked towards the stairs leading down to the crypt where the incorrupt body of St. Clare has lain for more than 600 years. We peered down but it was pitch black. Completely overwhelmed with anxiety and unmindful of the singing which was still going on, I said in a loud voice, " Lights, please." We waited. I made my request again. No response but the hymns went on. After the third try, we had to give up because the return trip on foot would still require some time. Never have I valued Time as a prized commodity as then! We took double-steps hurriedly towards the main door while I prayed and brazed myself to the shame and utter defeat when I would face an angry, arrogant and "triumphant" tour guide.

We had just stepped out of the basilica when something made me turn my head to the right. What did I see? A lone taxi was there with a smiling driver leaning against it almost ready to open the door for us! An exceedingly wide grin graced my pleasantly-surprised, wide-eyed face as I ran to him. "Oh, you are God-send," I declared with unquestionable truth. This acclamation acquired a degree of certainty when, during the ride, the driver said that he had never gone to Santa Chiara at such time ever before! He added that he woke up very early and just thought of coming over. With incredible awe and adoration, I prayed a litany of praise and thanksgiving to God! My thanks were also directed to our Blessed Mother, St. Clare and the communion of saints in heaven...my prayer " warriors."

We managed to get some breakfast before boarding the bus. We were on time!

August 10, 2010 - End Times - Help Me, Lord !

The Gospel last Sunday was on the End Times - the time when at the call of our Lord our mortal bodies give way to our immortal souls to reign in the timelessness of Eternity. Has the thought of God's call coming when we least expect it ever graced our minds? Have we allowed the daily grind of keeping house, office routine, kids' school activities and sports fests, etc. fill every minute of our waking hours? Have we ever found meaning in Jesus' words, " Much will be required of the person entrusted with much and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more. "

Pondering over End Times, I scribbled this poem:

Help Me, Lord !

My Lord says, " Take up your cross and follow me. "
Jesus' words to believers all born free
With the free will to make choices between right and wrong
A gift given to everyone, be thou weak or strong.

Do you know what it entails to follow him
A willing heart, total trust, hope to the brim
Be equipped with these to fight the devil's fangs
Of doubt, fear, despair and cajoling tongues.

Help me, Lord, I need to change my priorities
To put You, Number I in my lifelong duties
I realize now I do not have the passion
For Jesus in my consistent daily action.

Yes, I know I give only a pittance of my time, talent and treasure
Which after all come from Him, given without pressure
Long do I stay before the TV or computer
But not even half an hour in prayer with my Maker.

I often shun invitation to say the Rosary
Too involved with fun things I like to do earnestly
Just why instant gratification govern my life
Than moments with Mary, a never-ending rite.

How blind have I been to the futility of it all
The thrill of the present consumes me, oblivious of the fall
Which like wealth, power and fame are lost
When God calls me to account for what I did most.

A long struggle to change my ways
Will require focus, energy, commitment base
Help me, Lord, to follow your bid
Renew my faith, make of me, your seed.

Then I would have done my part
What someone said about life's " sowing " time smart
To cherish the thought that life is continuity
So live every moment as a seed of eternity.

August 8, 2010 ABRAHAM & HIS FAITH

The Second Reading today centers on Faith as exemplified by Abraham whose total trust in God remain unequaled in the Bible. From the beginning of his journey to parts unknown to the test of giving up his only son to obey God's will, Abraham proved to be a faith-ful disciple. Hebrews 11:1 says, "Faith is the substance of things to be hoped for, the evidence (conviction)of things that are not seen. By faith, Abraham obeyed by going out into a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he went out not knowing where he was going." What kind of faith did he have so as to earn him a covenant and its accompanying reward with his Creator?

1. Abraham had total trust in God. He cast down reasonings. He believed the proverb, "Be not wise in your own eyes." He did not have to figure out everything according to his own timing.

2. Abraham did not make compromises. "You, O Lord is my discernment." He knew that God will always do whatever He promises.

3. Abraham had the patience to wait on the Lord. Waiting upon the Lord gave him hope. He believed that God acts in His time.

4. Abraham had an obedient heart not only a believing heart. An obedient heart with the right attitude is rewarded by God. A reverential fear and awe to our Lord brings about the right attitude.

5. Abraham was aware of the discipline of God. He bore the sufferings that came his way because he knew what Hebrews 12:5 says, "My son, neglect not the discipline of the Lord, neither be thou weary when thou art rebuked by Him. For whom the Lord loves, He chastises."

Faith is purified by being tested just as gold is tested by fire. Tests will show how we react and how far we can go. Tests put our weaknesses and attitude in the open showing how deep our faith is. God uses the difficult experiences in life to lead us to spiritual maturity and to shape our character. We will discover how we can grow closer to God as we let Him transform us to be the man or woman He can call His friend. As you see your life through God's eyes, you will be encouraged, strengthened, motivated and more importantly, be at peace!

JULY 31, 2010 - St. Ignatius of Loyola

St. Ignatius Loyola was born to a noble family in Spain in 1491.He had a very good education. He became a soldier of reknown. He was wounded in a battle in Pamplona, Spain and was confined in bed for some months. While sick, he read many books mostly on the life of Christ. and of the saints. He experienced a religious conversion and later, went to the pilgrimage shrine of the Miraculous Black Madonna in Montserrat near Barcelona, Spain. He had an all-night vigil before our Lady of Monserrat, laid down his sword and dagger before Her and promised to be a Knight of Christ. He stayed in Manresa and lived a contemplative life although offered some hours of volunteer work in a hospital. By studying his life especially his prayer life, he wrote a Book of Spiritual Exercises in order to help others follow Jesus Christ more closely and be a genuine child of God.

The Book of Spiritual Exercises written in 1527 as a handbook of four weeks of meditations : first week on sin and its consequences; second week on Christian life on earth; third week on the Passion of Christ and the fourth week on the Risen Life of Christ. It included a number of instructions called Rules to teach one how to pray and how to elect a vocation in life without being swayed by the love of self or of the world. Nowadays, expositions on these Spiritual Exercises are done during retreats or in missions held during Lent.

St. Ignatius Loyola put the Anima Christi, an ancient prayer in the beginning of his Book of Spiritual Exercises. Hence, its authorship was attributed to him for some time. But many writers had proved that Anima Christi was already in print and found in many manuscripts or prayer books of Popes a hundred years before the saint was born. It is possible that St. Ignatius used the ancient prayer because of its association with the Catholic concept of the Holy Eucharist and the Passion of Christ.

By the way, do you know that the Anima Christi is the prayer said
AFTER receiving COMUNION ?

For those who need to refresh their memory, here it is:

Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Blood of Christ, inebriate me,
Water from the side of Christ, wash me
Passion of Christ, strengthen me
Oh, Good Jesus, hear me
Within Thy wounds, hide me
Suffer me not to be separated from Thee
From the malignant enemy, defend me
At the hour of my death, call me
Bid me come to Thee
That with Thy saints I may praise Thee
Forever and ever. Amen.

On August 15, 1534, St. Ignatius Loyola gathered six young colleagues from the University of Paris, including St. Francis Xavier at the crypt of the Church of St. Denis in Montmarte, Paris. They called themselves, "The Company of Jesus" or "Friends of the Lord" because they felt they were placed together by Christ. They professed vows of poverty, chastity and obedience especially obedience to the Pope. As more members came into the group, they learned by experience how prayer and penance can be combined with teaching and study. The Society of Jesus, as the group later became known , was approved by Pope Paul III on August 15, 1540 and permitted them to be ordained as priests. Their ideal was to strive for the propagation of the faith, do hospital work and do missionary work in Jerusalem. They believe that the only purpose why we live is to love, to serve and to give glory to God!The study and the obedience to Scripture is a priority in the life of a Jesuit.

The Jesuits, today, form the largest single order of priests and brothers in the Catholic Church. Their contribution lie largely in education and in missionary work. They founded schools throughout Europe, the Americas, Asia and the other continents of the world. Education is the principal and distinct ministry of the Society of Jesus. Jesuit schools played an important role in winning back to Catholicism European countries which were predominantly Protestant then such as Poland and Lithuania.

St. Ignatius Loyola died on July 31, 1556 in Rome and was canonized by Pope Gregory XV on May 22, 1620. His body lies under the altar of the Church of Gesu in Rome.

This prayer on GENEROSITY was written by St. Ignatius Loyola:

Teach me, Oh Lord, to be generous

To serve you as you deserve
To give and not to count the cost
To fight and not to heed the wounds
To toil and not to seek for rest
To labor and not to ask for reward
Save that of knowing that I do your will. Amen.