" If my people, who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land."
-2 Chronicles 7:14
Monday, February 9, 2009
Holy Hour Prayer Booklets
The 40 Days for Life Prayer and Fasting Committee has put together some Pro Life prayer pamphlets which are suitable for use in prayer groups or as Holy Hours in your Church or Parish. Below are links to the prayers.
Divine Mercy Chaplet Holy Hour
Journey to Calvary ( The Way of the Cross for the Terminally Ill)
Sacred Heart Holy Hour
Sacred Heart Holy Hour - 2 ( different readings)
Saint Joseph Holy Hour
A Rosary for Life - The Joyful Mysteries
A ROSARY FOR LIFE- THE LUMINOUS MYSTERIES
A Rosary for Life - The Sorrowful Mysteries
A ROSARY FOR LIFE - THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Pro Life Stations of the Cross
Respect for Life Meditations on the stations of the cross are based on those celebrated by Pope John Paul II on Good Friday 1991.
Rosary for Life from Priests for Life Canada
Divine Mercy Chaplet Holy Hour
Journey to Calvary ( The Way of the Cross for the Terminally Ill)
Sacred Heart Holy Hour
Sacred Heart Holy Hour - 2 ( different readings)
Saint Joseph Holy Hour
A Rosary for Life - The Joyful Mysteries
A ROSARY FOR LIFE- THE LUMINOUS MYSTERIES
A Rosary for Life - The Sorrowful Mysteries
A ROSARY FOR LIFE - THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Pro Life Stations of the Cross
Respect for Life Meditations on the stations of the cross are based on those celebrated by Pope John Paul II on Good Friday 1991.
Rosary for Life from Priests for Life Canada
Rosary making workshop
The Prayer and Fasting Committe of 40 Days for Life
invites you to attend a workshop on how to make a beaded string rosary. These rosaries will be given to our sidewalk councilors for them to use in their ministry. Thanks and may God bless you. Hope to see you there!
Rosary Making Workship:
When: Thursday Feb 19, 2009
Time: 1:00 PM
Where: 897 Blair Road, Gloucester ON
Rosary Making Workship:
When: Thursday Feb 19, 2009
Time: 1:00 PM
Where: 897 Blair Road, Gloucester ON
for directions please click on this link http://www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Ottawa&state=ON&address=+897+Blair+Road%2C
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Video on how to make a beaded cord rosary
Attention all you prayerful crafty men and women, The Spring 40 Days for Life Camaign now has a rosary making ministry and you will learn more about it at the meeting Tuesday evening at 7:00PM at Saint Pat's. We will be holding a workshop within the next week or two but if you would like a sneek preview on how to make a beaded cord rosary please click on the instructions below.
Actually this rosary is easier to make than the knotted cord rosary since the knot is the most difficult part of the rosary making
http://www.olrm.org/cord_inst.html
If you feel called to be part of this ministry please contact me at mtward@magma.ca
And while we are at it, if you have ever thought of making a knotted cord rosary go to
ROSARY ARMY website and watch the easy to follow video
http://www.rosaryarmy.com/?page_id=39f
or printable instructions please click here
http://www.rosaryarmy.com/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images/rosaryinstructions1.pdf
Actually this rosary is easier to make than the knotted cord rosary since the knot is the most difficult part of the rosary making
http://www.olrm.org/cord_inst.html
If you feel called to be part of this ministry please contact me at mtward@magma.ca
And while we are at it, if you have ever thought of making a knotted cord rosary go to
ROSARY ARMY website and watch the easy to follow video
http://www.rosaryarmy.com/?page_id=39f
or printable instructions please click here
http://www.rosaryarmy.com/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images/rosaryinstructions1.pdf
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Prayers for Canada
PRAYER TO OUR BLESSED MOTHER FOR CANADA
O Most Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust our country to your loving care.
Most Holy Mother, we beg you to reclaim this land for the glory of your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to you from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in your motherly protection.
Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of our people. Open our minds to the great worth of human life and to the responsibilites that accompany human freedom.
Free us from falsehoods that lead to the evils of abortion and the breakdown of family life. Grant us the wisdom to know and proclaim that this nation was founded on God's law and that he alone is the True Source of our cherished rights and freedoms.
Guide and protect this land from every evil and from the attacks of the powers of darkness.
O Merciful Mother, give us the courage to reject the culture of death and the strength to build a new culture of life. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Imprimatur: Bishop Roman Danylak, D.D
Titular Bishop of Nyssa - Dec. 12, 2004
PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH - By Pope Leo XIII
O holy protector of the holy family, protect us children of the Lord Jesus Christ; keep far from us the errors and evils which corrupt the world; assist us from Heaven in our struggles against the powers of darkness. And as you once protected the Divine Child from the cruel edict of Herod, now defend the Church and our country and keep them safe from all dangers and threats. Spread over all of us your holy patronage so that by following your example and aided by your spiritual guidance, we may all aspire to a virtuous life, look to a holy death, and secure for ourselves the blessing of eternal happiness in Heaven.
Prayer to Our Lady of Guadalupe
O Most Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust our country to your loving care.
Most Holy Mother, we beg you to reclaim this land for the glory of your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to you from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in your motherly protection.
Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of our people. Open our minds to the great worth of human life and to the responsibilites that accompany human freedom.
Free us from falsehoods that lead to the evils of abortion and the breakdown of family life. Grant us the wisdom to know and proclaim that this nation was founded on God's law and that he alone is the True Source of our cherished rights and freedoms.
Guide and protect this land from every evil and from the attacks of the powers of darkness.
O Merciful Mother, give us the courage to reject the culture of death and the strength to build a new culture of life. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Imprimatur: Bishop Roman Danylak, D.D
Titular Bishop of Nyssa - Dec. 12, 2004
PRAYER TO SAINT JOSEPH - By Pope Leo XIII
O holy protector of the holy family, protect us children of the Lord Jesus Christ; keep far from us the errors and evils which corrupt the world; assist us from Heaven in our struggles against the powers of darkness. And as you once protected the Divine Child from the cruel edict of Herod, now defend the Church and our country and keep them safe from all dangers and threats. Spread over all of us your holy patronage so that by following your example and aided by your spiritual guidance, we may all aspire to a virtuous life, look to a holy death, and secure for ourselves the blessing of eternal happiness in Heaven.
Prayer to Our Lady of Guadalupe
Our Lady of Guadalupe we beg you to protect all mothers of the unborn and the children within their wombs. We plead with you for your help to end the holocaust of abortion. Melt hearts so that life may be revered! Holy Mother, we pray to your Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart for all mothers and all unborn children that they may have life here on earth and by the most Precious Blood shed by your Son that they may have eternal life with Him in heaven. We also pray to your Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart for all abortionists and all abortion supporters that they may be converted and accept your Son, Jesus Christ, as their Lord and Savior. Amen
Friday, January 16, 2009
Anne of Green Gables by the Greely Players
I just love the musical Anne of Green Gables. Did I tell you that my sister Paula and my niece Michelle both have parts in the upcoming Spring presentation of this well loved musical by the Greely Players? Well I'm telling you now!
for more information please this website
http://www.greelyplayers.ca/
Maureen
for more information please this website
http://www.greelyplayers.ca/
Maureen
Do you wanna dance?
I just love this video
Where the Hell is Matt? by Matthew Harding 14 months in the making, 42 countries, and a cast of thousands. Thanks to everyone who danced with me. Matt
Where the Hell is Matt? by Matthew Harding 14 months in the making, 42 countries, and a cast of thousands. Thanks to everyone who danced with me. Matt
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Quotations from the Popes of the Church on Prayer
from http://www.cpats.org/"Promoting Catholic Apologetic support groups loyal to the Magisterium"Question and Answer Knowledge base: http://www.cpats.org/answershttp://www.cpats.org/holyquotes/index.cfmhttp://www.cpats.org/holyquotes/index.cfm
" Pray, pray, pray; prayer is the key to the treasures of God. It is the weapon of combat and of victory in every battle for good over evil." Pope Pius XII
"Prayer is the breath of the Mystical Body, it is conversation with God, the expression of its love and it's striving toward the Father." Pope Paul VI
"Pray like Jesus. Pray intently. Pray today, always in the confident communion that prayer has established between us and the Father. Because it is to a father, it is to the Father that our humble voice is addressed." Pope Paul VI
"Prayer is able to transform the world. Everything is new with prayer, both for individuals and for communities. New goals and new ideals emerge. Christian dignity and action are reaffirmed." Pope John Paul 11
"Pray for the many spiritual and material needs of your families, your communities, the whole Church, and all of humanity. Indeed, prayer is the first and greatest work of charity that we must do for our brothers and sisters."Pope John Paul 11
" In prayer, we come to see the stark reality of our own poverty, the absolute need we have for a Savior. We discover, in a more profound degree, the many ways in which we ourselves are poor and needy, and thus we begin to feel an increasing solidarity with all the poor." Pope John Paul II
"In prayer we seek, find, and converse with God just as we would with an intimate friend. We can speak of our sorrows and joys, our weaknesses and problems, and our desires to be better and to help others to be better too." Pope John Paul 11
"May prayers give wings to work, purify intentions and be a defense against the longings of materialism. And may work in its turn lead to the refreshing encounter with God in which humanity rediscovers its primordial vocation and the true meaning of its existence...... " Pope John Paul II
"In prayer the Church concentrates on Christ; she possesses Him, savors His Friendship, and is therefore in a position to communicate Him. But by exercising faith, hope, and charity in prayer, she reinforces her power to communicate Christ." Pope John Paul II
"I ask you to pray for those who cannot pray and also for those who do not know how to pray. Pray too for all who have lost faith in God and in His mercy." Pope John Paul II
"Prayer opens the mind and heart to God. It deepens our longing for His Kingdom. Prayer consciously links us to the Communion of Saints, who support us by their continual intercession." Pope John Paul 11
"Pray also for your brothers and sisters and for all the children of the world, especially those who are poor and hungry. Pray for those who do not know Jesus, for those who are alone and sad." Pope John Paul 11
" Pray, pray, pray; prayer is the key to the treasures of God. It is the weapon of combat and of victory in every battle for good over evil." Pope Pius XII
"Prayer is the breath of the Mystical Body, it is conversation with God, the expression of its love and it's striving toward the Father." Pope Paul VI
"Pray like Jesus. Pray intently. Pray today, always in the confident communion that prayer has established between us and the Father. Because it is to a father, it is to the Father that our humble voice is addressed." Pope Paul VI
"Prayer is able to transform the world. Everything is new with prayer, both for individuals and for communities. New goals and new ideals emerge. Christian dignity and action are reaffirmed." Pope John Paul 11
"Pray for the many spiritual and material needs of your families, your communities, the whole Church, and all of humanity. Indeed, prayer is the first and greatest work of charity that we must do for our brothers and sisters."Pope John Paul 11
" In prayer, we come to see the stark reality of our own poverty, the absolute need we have for a Savior. We discover, in a more profound degree, the many ways in which we ourselves are poor and needy, and thus we begin to feel an increasing solidarity with all the poor." Pope John Paul II
"In prayer we seek, find, and converse with God just as we would with an intimate friend. We can speak of our sorrows and joys, our weaknesses and problems, and our desires to be better and to help others to be better too." Pope John Paul 11
"May prayers give wings to work, purify intentions and be a defense against the longings of materialism. And may work in its turn lead to the refreshing encounter with God in which humanity rediscovers its primordial vocation and the true meaning of its existence...... " Pope John Paul II
"In prayer the Church concentrates on Christ; she possesses Him, savors His Friendship, and is therefore in a position to communicate Him. But by exercising faith, hope, and charity in prayer, she reinforces her power to communicate Christ." Pope John Paul II
"I ask you to pray for those who cannot pray and also for those who do not know how to pray. Pray too for all who have lost faith in God and in His mercy." Pope John Paul II
"Prayer opens the mind and heart to God. It deepens our longing for His Kingdom. Prayer consciously links us to the Communion of Saints, who support us by their continual intercession." Pope John Paul 11
"Pray also for your brothers and sisters and for all the children of the world, especially those who are poor and hungry. Pray for those who do not know Jesus, for those who are alone and sad." Pope John Paul 11
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Lenten Fasting: Lessons from Old Russia
Ash Wednesday, February 25, marks the first day of lent and the beginning of the Spring 2009, 40 Days for Life Campaign.
The following is an exerpt from Season of Mercy: Lent and Easter by Catherine Doherty
" Lent in Russia was really something deep and profound, and people cherished it as a simple and direct way to God. We recalled that the Fathers of the Church, who lived in the desert, fasted. All the monks in Russia fasted very much; everyone fasted, from the Czar to the housemaid. Fasting was very powerful in Russia. (For instance, when my father fasted, he would eat nothing but one potato.) People often lost twenty pounds or so, but it was not the loss of pounds that interested them; it was the spiritual meaning of the fast. " for more on lenten fasting by Catherine Doherty go to the link below
http://www.madonnahouse.org/publications/passiton/Pass-It-On-008.htm
To know more about the life of Servant of God, Catherine Doherty, please go to the link below
http://www.catherinedoherty.org/downloads/Robert_Wild_-_Catherine_Doherty_Servant_of_God.pdf
The following is an exerpt from Season of Mercy: Lent and Easter by Catherine Doherty
" Lent in Russia was really something deep and profound, and people cherished it as a simple and direct way to God. We recalled that the Fathers of the Church, who lived in the desert, fasted. All the monks in Russia fasted very much; everyone fasted, from the Czar to the housemaid. Fasting was very powerful in Russia. (For instance, when my father fasted, he would eat nothing but one potato.) People often lost twenty pounds or so, but it was not the loss of pounds that interested them; it was the spiritual meaning of the fast. " for more on lenten fasting by Catherine Doherty go to the link below
http://www.madonnahouse.org/publications/passiton/Pass-It-On-008.htm
To know more about the life of Servant of God, Catherine Doherty, please go to the link below
http://www.catherinedoherty.org/downloads/Robert_Wild_-_Catherine_Doherty_Servant_of_God.pdf
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Lent 2009 40 Days for Life Campaign
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Largest-Ever Pro-Life Mobilization Hits Toronto and Other Canadian Cities this Lent - Prayer, Fasting and 24-Hour Vigils Outside Abortuaries
TORONTO, January 9, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) - This Lent, from Ash Wednesday, February 25 to April 5, 2009, a number of Canadian cities, including Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, will participate with more than 170 cities across North America, joining together for the largest and longest coordinated pro-life mobilization in history - the 40 Days for Life campaign.40 Days for Life is a focused pro-life campaign that has generated measurable lifesaving results in the more than 200 cities where it has been implemented. It has lead to a significant drop in abortions in almost all locations, and, in some places, such as the State of North Dakota, to the temporary closing of all abortion clinics.Jim Hughes of Campaign Life Coalition, which is helping organize the 40 Days For Life in Canada, said that the Ottawa campaign held this past Fall was a resounding success, with hundreds attending the opening and midway point rallies and closing ceremonies, and a constant presence at the abortuary vigil site."There were three confirmed saves in Ottawa alone - babies whose mothers changed their minds about having an abortion. In the Fall campaign across North America there were 614 babies saved in total that we know of. God only knows what other blessings will come from the 40 Days for Life as we plan for 2009!" Hughes said.The 40 Days for Life campaign is made up of three key components: - Prayer and Fasting - Peaceful Vigil: standing for life through a 40-day peaceful public witness outside abortion mills 24 hours a day/seven days a week.- Community Outreach: communicating a positive, upbeat pro-life message through media efforts, church presentations, petition drives, and public visibility.While all aspects of 40 Days for Life are crucial in the effort to end abortion, the most visible component is the peaceful prayer vigil outside the Morgentaler abortion mill in Ottawa, the Scott abortion mill in Toronto, the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, and the Clinique Morgentaler in Montreal.40 Days For Life Ottawa has confirmed a start up meeting in the Scavi (church basement) of St. Patrick's Basilica on Tuesday January 13 at 7 pm, a general meeting on Tuesday, February 3 at St. Pat's from 7 to 9 pm, and a Vesper service with Bishop Prendergast on Sunday February 22 at 7 pm at St. Patrick's.In Toronto, campaign organizer Nicole Campbell told LifeSiteNews that there will be a start up meeting on January 19 at 7 pm, and general meetings on February 2 and 17 at 7 pm, all at St. Michael's Choir School, 66 Bond St. A kick-off rally will be announced when particulars are confirmed.
Largest-Ever Pro-Life Mobilization Hits Toronto and Other Canadian Cities this Lent - Prayer, Fasting and 24-Hour Vigils Outside Abortuaries
TORONTO, January 9, 2009 (LifeSiteNews.com) - This Lent, from Ash Wednesday, February 25 to April 5, 2009, a number of Canadian cities, including Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, will participate with more than 170 cities across North America, joining together for the largest and longest coordinated pro-life mobilization in history - the 40 Days for Life campaign.40 Days for Life is a focused pro-life campaign that has generated measurable lifesaving results in the more than 200 cities where it has been implemented. It has lead to a significant drop in abortions in almost all locations, and, in some places, such as the State of North Dakota, to the temporary closing of all abortion clinics.Jim Hughes of Campaign Life Coalition, which is helping organize the 40 Days For Life in Canada, said that the Ottawa campaign held this past Fall was a resounding success, with hundreds attending the opening and midway point rallies and closing ceremonies, and a constant presence at the abortuary vigil site."There were three confirmed saves in Ottawa alone - babies whose mothers changed their minds about having an abortion. In the Fall campaign across North America there were 614 babies saved in total that we know of. God only knows what other blessings will come from the 40 Days for Life as we plan for 2009!" Hughes said.The 40 Days for Life campaign is made up of three key components: - Prayer and Fasting - Peaceful Vigil: standing for life through a 40-day peaceful public witness outside abortion mills 24 hours a day/seven days a week.- Community Outreach: communicating a positive, upbeat pro-life message through media efforts, church presentations, petition drives, and public visibility.While all aspects of 40 Days for Life are crucial in the effort to end abortion, the most visible component is the peaceful prayer vigil outside the Morgentaler abortion mill in Ottawa, the Scott abortion mill in Toronto, the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, and the Clinique Morgentaler in Montreal.40 Days For Life Ottawa has confirmed a start up meeting in the Scavi (church basement) of St. Patrick's Basilica on Tuesday January 13 at 7 pm, a general meeting on Tuesday, February 3 at St. Pat's from 7 to 9 pm, and a Vesper service with Bishop Prendergast on Sunday February 22 at 7 pm at St. Patrick's.In Toronto, campaign organizer Nicole Campbell told LifeSiteNews that there will be a start up meeting on January 19 at 7 pm, and general meetings on February 2 and 17 at 7 pm, all at St. Michael's Choir School, 66 Bond St. A kick-off rally will be announced when particulars are confirmed.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Socialist Separatist Coalition
By now you all all aware of this abuse of democracy. What can we do? Please visit John's Blog at this link
http://www.socon.ca/or_bust/?p=1432
http://www.socon.ca/or_bust/?p=1432
Saturday, November 29, 2008
40 Days Continues
At least 750 attended the closing Rally, and joined in the candelight procession to Saint Patrick Basilica for mass at 7:00 with Archbishop Prendergast. Thank you, your Grace for your support and encouragement throughout the campaign.
Its not over though and perhaps never will be. In fact, until eyes are opened and ears begin to hear and hearts begin to soften, the vigil will continue.
Melanie and I prayed for an hour at the abortion site Friday from 11:00 Am til noon. I arrived at approximately 10:40 and saw Doris praying near the door of 65 Bank so I joined her for a while. Around 11:00 I crossed the street to wait for Melanie who arrived a few minutes later .
We prayed the rosary and while doing so a young couple left 65 Bank st. The woman was very sick and vomited a number of times in the snow bank. She looked so weak and fragile, but the young man with her seemed in a hurry to get going so they continued down the street and past MacDonalds Restaurant. The woman continued to vomit. As I prayed I thought " They kill the baby and send the woman away sick to recuperate alone. I told Jennifer about this occurrence and this is what she said " I feel so angry, more so as a nurse, when I learn that 'patients' are sent out onto the street to recover. There is NO care at these places. It's such a paradox that they respect women and their bodies."
Doris left around 11:45 and Melanie and I left around noon. I had an appointment in the west end of the city for 2:00 PM so I decided to have lunch at 240 Sparks Street. After lunch I returned to the site and saw Frances holding her sign and praying alone. I stayed and prayed with her for a short time but had to leave for my appointment. I regretted that I was unable to stay longer.
It fills my soul with such hope and joy to see the courage and dedication of these faithful witnesses who return to pray several times a week. For me it was my first time back to the site since 40 Days officially ended three weeks ago but I pledge to return every week from now on for at least one hour. That's the least I can do.
Its not over though and perhaps never will be. In fact, until eyes are opened and ears begin to hear and hearts begin to soften, the vigil will continue.
Melanie and I prayed for an hour at the abortion site Friday from 11:00 Am til noon. I arrived at approximately 10:40 and saw Doris praying near the door of 65 Bank so I joined her for a while. Around 11:00 I crossed the street to wait for Melanie who arrived a few minutes later .
We prayed the rosary and while doing so a young couple left 65 Bank st. The woman was very sick and vomited a number of times in the snow bank. She looked so weak and fragile, but the young man with her seemed in a hurry to get going so they continued down the street and past MacDonalds Restaurant. The woman continued to vomit. As I prayed I thought " They kill the baby and send the woman away sick to recuperate alone. I told Jennifer about this occurrence and this is what she said " I feel so angry, more so as a nurse, when I learn that 'patients' are sent out onto the street to recover. There is NO care at these places. It's such a paradox that they respect women and their bodies."
Doris left around 11:45 and Melanie and I left around noon. I had an appointment in the west end of the city for 2:00 PM so I decided to have lunch at 240 Sparks Street. After lunch I returned to the site and saw Frances holding her sign and praying alone. I stayed and prayed with her for a short time but had to leave for my appointment. I regretted that I was unable to stay longer.
It fills my soul with such hope and joy to see the courage and dedication of these faithful witnesses who return to pray several times a week. For me it was my first time back to the site since 40 Days officially ended three weeks ago but I pledge to return every week from now on for at least one hour. That's the least I can do.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Mid Point Rally
Mid Point Rally Sunday October 19, 2008
It was just an amazing turnout and I thank the organizers and all the participants who have been so faithful and generous with their time. God is surely blessing us and will continue to. I would guess that there were at least two hundred participants at the rally.
The coffee and hot chocolate warmed us up and was certainly appreciated.
Many tears were shed among the crowd as we listened to the speeches and testimonies. Nicole told us at the beginning of the campaign that we wouldn't be the same afterwards and she was right. I know I am not the same as I was. To see hearts being changed, babies being saved, families saved from a life of grief and sorrow just fills one's soul with hope overflowing. As Nicole said to save one baby is to save generations.
Our hearts too are being changed, in ways that we we would never have imagined.. Knowing that the ripple effect of what we have witnessed will continue forever just absolutely confirms that God is calling us to do this; to be His witnesses to the truth: to proclaim the Gospel of Life in all its beauty and Glory! He calls each one of us to be His voice in the world, to bring Jesus to the people, and to share in the mission of the Church which is the salvation of souls.
It was just an amazing turnout and I thank the organizers and all the participants who have been so faithful and generous with their time. God is surely blessing us and will continue to. I would guess that there were at least two hundred participants at the rally.
The coffee and hot chocolate warmed us up and was certainly appreciated.
Many tears were shed among the crowd as we listened to the speeches and testimonies. Nicole told us at the beginning of the campaign that we wouldn't be the same afterwards and she was right. I know I am not the same as I was. To see hearts being changed, babies being saved, families saved from a life of grief and sorrow just fills one's soul with hope overflowing. As Nicole said to save one baby is to save generations.
Our hearts too are being changed, in ways that we we would never have imagined.. Knowing that the ripple effect of what we have witnessed will continue forever just absolutely confirms that God is calling us to do this; to be His witnesses to the truth: to proclaim the Gospel of Life in all its beauty and Glory! He calls each one of us to be His voice in the world, to bring Jesus to the people, and to share in the mission of the Church which is the salvation of souls.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
40 Days for Life
Jennifer and I decided on Monday that we needed to pray together at the abortion site on Tuesday. I arrived Tuesday morning at approximately 9:10 . Jennifer had arrived earlier.
I met Peter from Saint Elizabeth Parish who had been at the site for some time. Shortly afterwards a few others came by. Jennifer decided to join the two faithful men who were praying the rosary in front of the abortuary while I stayed near the cradle.
As I was praying silently, a man walked by and looked at me thanked me and continued on his way. When Jennifer came back we said our Legion of Mary prayers together and others joined us as we prayed the rosary. We began with this prayer that we always say before doing our Legion of Mary work, and how appropriate we thought are the words
" Mother of us all, Help me as I go to the front today as a solider in your army. Keep my attitude towards people as one of infinite sweetness and patience. Remind me always that I stand before people in your place, doing your work. Remind me how much you love each of your children. Let me disappear, and let my voice, my attitude and my thoughts be yours. In this way, the will of God, who is your Son and my Lord, will be done. I pray with all my heart for the conversion of the souls that I am about to meet. Dear Mother, Queen of Peace, Queen of all Graces, Our Lady of Guadalupe, I am in your service, and I thank you in advance for having listened to my prayer. AMEN
After saying our Legion prayers we decided to sit on a bench in front of the abortuary while holding our signs. A few passers by stopped to talk with us. Two elderly women were unaware that the abortuary was right there and expressed there sadness at the ugliness of it all and how women are so hurt by this and so often it is others who pressure them to end the life of their child. They expressed their gratitude for those who were praying at the site and told us they would pray for all of us.
Shortly after that, two young men in their teens stopped by and looked at our signs and asked us if we thought our prayers would work and we said "yes we do, that is our hope" They smiled and wished us good luck. Jennifer commented on how Jesus was using all of us who were at the site this day and every day as instruments in evangelization.
I thought of the beatitude "Blessed are the Peacemakers" Marcus Grodi from the Journey Home on EWTN explained this beatitude as "being Christ in the world"
Around that time it started to rain and believing the weatherman's prediction of a sunny day we were not prepared. No problem however, because in no time at all we were handed an umbrella from dear Noreen who was praying with about 8 others on the other side of the street. God bless her and the others. We left around noon in order to attend mass at Saint Patrick Basilica and we thank God for His Grace.
Maureen
I met Peter from Saint Elizabeth Parish who had been at the site for some time. Shortly afterwards a few others came by. Jennifer decided to join the two faithful men who were praying the rosary in front of the abortuary while I stayed near the cradle.
As I was praying silently, a man walked by and looked at me thanked me and continued on his way. When Jennifer came back we said our Legion of Mary prayers together and others joined us as we prayed the rosary. We began with this prayer that we always say before doing our Legion of Mary work, and how appropriate we thought are the words
" Mother of us all, Help me as I go to the front today as a solider in your army. Keep my attitude towards people as one of infinite sweetness and patience. Remind me always that I stand before people in your place, doing your work. Remind me how much you love each of your children. Let me disappear, and let my voice, my attitude and my thoughts be yours. In this way, the will of God, who is your Son and my Lord, will be done. I pray with all my heart for the conversion of the souls that I am about to meet. Dear Mother, Queen of Peace, Queen of all Graces, Our Lady of Guadalupe, I am in your service, and I thank you in advance for having listened to my prayer. AMEN
After saying our Legion prayers we decided to sit on a bench in front of the abortuary while holding our signs. A few passers by stopped to talk with us. Two elderly women were unaware that the abortuary was right there and expressed there sadness at the ugliness of it all and how women are so hurt by this and so often it is others who pressure them to end the life of their child. They expressed their gratitude for those who were praying at the site and told us they would pray for all of us.
Shortly after that, two young men in their teens stopped by and looked at our signs and asked us if we thought our prayers would work and we said "yes we do, that is our hope" They smiled and wished us good luck. Jennifer commented on how Jesus was using all of us who were at the site this day and every day as instruments in evangelization.
I thought of the beatitude "Blessed are the Peacemakers" Marcus Grodi from the Journey Home on EWTN explained this beatitude as "being Christ in the world"
Around that time it started to rain and believing the weatherman's prediction of a sunny day we were not prepared. No problem however, because in no time at all we were handed an umbrella from dear Noreen who was praying with about 8 others on the other side of the street. God bless her and the others. We left around noon in order to attend mass at Saint Patrick Basilica and we thank God for His Grace.
Maureen
Monday, October 6, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Friday afternoon at the abortion site.
I arrived around 1:00 on Friday October 3 and stayed for a little over two and a half hours. During that time I prayed of course for an end to abortion in general but my heart went out to a young couple who I saw rush into the lobby of 65 Bank street while ignoring the counsellor who kindly tried to give the young woman a pamphlet . I felt such a heavy heart knowing what was most probably taking place during the next two hours.
As I prayed I glanced up at the third floor and wondered where she was. Was she going through with the abortion? Maybe she would change her mind. I hoped and I prayed. I thought of the little baby whose life was about to be ended and prayed for her angel to take her to heaven and that she wouldn't feel any pain.
When they left the abortuary about 2 hours later, the young woman was very pale. They walked slowly to the MacDonald's restaurant next door and it all seemed surreal.
I have so much difficulty comprehending this ugliness that is taking place in our city. Just a short walk from Parliament Hill and amidst the hustle and bustle of the downtown tourist area, is a place where women go to have their babies killed.
There were about 8 others praying during that time. Among them were two very humble and kind sisters Teresa and Sara, from the Religious Order the Queenship of Mary and Simon Lobo a Deacon with the Companions of the Cross. Simon is currently at Saint Maurice Parish and will be ordained in May 2009. He gathered us all together for a blessing before he left the site and for this we were all truly grateful. He asked God to bestow His blessing on all of us and for all those in the place across the street . He prayed for the little souls who would die that day and for all those hurt by abortion and asked God to be with them and be merciful. I truly felt Mary and her Son's presence amidst the sorrow. Please pray for Teresa, Sara and Simon. Their presence was a Grace from God. And please never stop praying for an end to abortion.
As I prayed I glanced up at the third floor and wondered where she was. Was she going through with the abortion? Maybe she would change her mind. I hoped and I prayed. I thought of the little baby whose life was about to be ended and prayed for her angel to take her to heaven and that she wouldn't feel any pain.
When they left the abortuary about 2 hours later, the young woman was very pale. They walked slowly to the MacDonald's restaurant next door and it all seemed surreal.
I have so much difficulty comprehending this ugliness that is taking place in our city. Just a short walk from Parliament Hill and amidst the hustle and bustle of the downtown tourist area, is a place where women go to have their babies killed.
There were about 8 others praying during that time. Among them were two very humble and kind sisters Teresa and Sara, from the Religious Order the Queenship of Mary and Simon Lobo a Deacon with the Companions of the Cross. Simon is currently at Saint Maurice Parish and will be ordained in May 2009. He gathered us all together for a blessing before he left the site and for this we were all truly grateful. He asked God to bestow His blessing on all of us and for all those in the place across the street . He prayed for the little souls who would die that day and for all those hurt by abortion and asked God to be with them and be merciful. I truly felt Mary and her Son's presence amidst the sorrow. Please pray for Teresa, Sara and Simon. Their presence was a Grace from God. And please never stop praying for an end to abortion.
Debates and sideshows
What's the difference between a Canadian Election Debate and a US Debate? In the US they actually have a debate. Here we say go sic em doggies! Em being the Prime Minister of course . What a foolish sight. I don't know why they were so hot on his shirt tails anyways given that the Conservative Party is starting to become strangely similar to the Liberals and the NDP. And why does Bloc leader Gilles Duceppe even rate a seat at the round table being that his mandate is to break up the country and all! Go figure! Are we losing our collective marbles?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Hope on the Horizon
Not a good week for the Economy.
The weather has been cold and damp and it looks like we might even get some snow on our fall posies by the weekend.
But there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
People from across Ottawa are coming together to pray for an end to abortion outside of the Morgentaler abortion clinic at 65 Bank Street. You folks in the media and you, our left thinking politicians better stand up and take notice. With power comes responsibility but because you, our politicians have failed to protect the most vulnerable members of our society, and because you, our members of the mainstrean media do not tell the truth, then we, the people must take on this task ourselves. This is just the beginning of a new grassroots movement of ordinary people coming together to pray to an end to this ugliness and horror that is happening in our midst. We will draw attention to this attrocity and we will continue for as long as it takes.
The weather has been cold and damp and it looks like we might even get some snow on our fall posies by the weekend.
But there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
People from across Ottawa are coming together to pray for an end to abortion outside of the Morgentaler abortion clinic at 65 Bank Street. You folks in the media and you, our left thinking politicians better stand up and take notice. With power comes responsibility but because you, our politicians have failed to protect the most vulnerable members of our society, and because you, our members of the mainstrean media do not tell the truth, then we, the people must take on this task ourselves. This is just the beginning of a new grassroots movement of ordinary people coming together to pray to an end to this ugliness and horror that is happening in our midst. We will draw attention to this attrocity and we will continue for as long as it takes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)