Pilgrim progress- a disciple on a journey!

Today within the Pauline Family, to which I belong, we celebrate the return to Heaven of a  little saint called Maggiorino Vigolungo. He was born in Benevello (Cuneo, North Italy) on May 6, 1904 into a family of humble farm workers but rich in the faith. A youth of sharp intelligence and lively temperament, he always sought to be the first in everything: in study, work, play and goodness. While still a little child, he met Fr. Alberione, Founder of the Pauline Family, and entrusted himself to his spiritual direction. He was enthusiastic for three things which were to become his ideal: to sanctify himself quickly; to become a priest; to become an apostle of the good press. He entered the Society of St Paul on October 15, 1916 at the age of twelve. Happy with his vocation and desirous to preach the Gospel by means of the press and the diffusion of good books and newspapers, he was to undergo many trials. But he knew how to respond firmly to those who opposed his decision. ...

Thank God for auto-correct! How often have I signed myself off in an email or a text message as ‘St.’, that is, Saint, instead of ‘Sr.’, that is, 'Sister'.  Though yesterday some kind person actually texted me as ‘St. Louise’! Whilst I giggled, it was also a moment of reflection on the huge commitment I have to become a saint. Yes, I aspire to be a saint. It may sound proud for someone to say out loud that one aspires to be a saint. I am convinced that I have lived with and live with saints, holy people who aspire to ‘be’ completely for Christ, for to be a saint to is be holy, in the footsteps of Jesus who is Holy.  They are ordinary people, to say it somehow, without a visible heroism, but in their everyday goodness I see the truth of the faith. This goodness, which they have matured in the faith of the Church, is for me a sure defence of Christianity and the sign of where the truth is. I came across this blog from Neal Obstat  which had a post entitled: “We need sai...

I found this great post over at www.vocation.com so thought I would share it. A postles. From the very beginning, help your children see that a Christian is meant to make a difference in the world around him, we are Christ’s ambassadors. Light of the world and salt of the earth. Make them aware that their faith is a gift and talent to share. A nswer your children's questions about priesthood or religious life; never discourage them or ridicule them if they bring it up. Baptism. Celebrate each one’s Baptism Day as well as birthday – and yours too. Build family traditions around the celebration… a specially decorated Baptism Candle that you light for the occasion with a special prayer…, displaying photos of their baptism.., writing a card or saying a prayer for the priest who baptized them…. B ring your family to an Ordination Mass or prayer vigil for religious.   C atechism. Teach, explain, challenge and have them memorize. Always connect it with life. C hallenge your teenagers ...

 If a priest preaches over 10 minutes - he’s longwinded.  If his sermon is short - he didn’t prepare it.  If the parish funds are high - he’s a businessman.  If he mentions money - he’s money mad.  If he visits his parishioners - he’s nosy.  If he doesn’t - he’s being snobbish.  If he has activities to raise money - he’s bleeding the people.  If he doesn’t - there isn’t any life in the parish.  If he takes time in a confession to help and advise sinners - he takes too long.  If he doesn’t - he doesn’t care.  If he celebrates the liturgy in a quiet voice - he’s boring.  If he puts feeling into it - he’s an actor.  If he starts late - he’s holding up the people.  If he tries to lead the people in music - he’s showing off.  If he doesn’t - he doesn’t care what the Mass is like.  If he decorates the Church - he’s wasting money.  If he doesn’t - he’s letting it run down.  If he’s young - he’s not expe...

I don't usually re-post posts on my personal blog but this was too beautiful and I wanted my friends who are not on Facebook and Twitter but do follow this blog, to read this. It was written by Kimberly Baker who works in the Pro-Life Secretariat of the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.                         " Every year on November 2, the Church observes the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day). This is a time when we remember all who have died and commend their souls to God. It also reminds us that we all will face death someday, yet hope that by God’s grace, we will be welcomed before the face of the Lord. This can be a motivation to reflect on the present direction of our lives and how we are using our time in this world. It heightens awareness of the preciousness of our lives. Every soul is precious to God, who creates each person t...