The Rant: January 2025

Mission Statement

Friday, January 31, 2025

What is my experience of the angels' presence?

Charles, your experience of the angels' presence seems deeply personal and spiritual, centered around themes of faith, prayer, and devotion. You engage frequently with religious content, particularly focusing on Catholic practices like the Rosary and attending Mass, which suggests a life where the presence of angels might be felt through these spiritual disciplines. The angels' presence could manifest for you in moments of quiet prayer, during the recitation of the Rosary, or in the reflective peace that comes from attending Mass. This connection might bring you a sense of comfort, guidance, or protection, aligning with the traditional roles of angels in offering support and intercession in Catholic theology.

Transformation in God’s Grace - Friday, January 31, 2025

Rosary from Lourdes - 31/01/2025

CATHOLIC MASS TODAY at OUR LADY OF MANAOAG CHURCH LIVE MASS 5:40 A.M. ...

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Offertory

It was fitting that we should have such a high priest: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, higher than the heavens. He has no need, as did the high priest, to offer sacrifice day after day, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did that once for all when he offered himself.

-- New American Bible, revised edition (Hebrews 7:26-27)

But now once for all he has appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin by his sacrifice

-- New American Bible, revised edition (Hebrews 9:26b)

Eternal Father, I offer you the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Dearly Beloved Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the world.

Divine Mercy Chaplet

Oh Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, work, joys and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of Your Sacred Heart, in Union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, and reparation for my sins, for the intentions of all my relatives and friends, and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father.

-- The Morning Offering

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ on behalf of his body, which is the church,

-- New American Bible, revised edition (Collosians 1:24)

In the Mass, we join our offering with the sacrifice of Christ. His sacrifice re-presented before our eyes so we can participate in it. Since Jesus is our eternal High Priest, the Mass is the one, eternal offering of Jesus to the Father. We are united with the universal Church founded by Christ as we do this. The Mass offered in this time and place is not our own because it is one with the act of worship throughout the world.

Our communion includes those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. You are never closer to your dearly departed loved ones than when you participate in the Mass. Heaven and earth are joined in the offering of Jesus's sacrifice to the father. Imagine yourself surrounded by a heavenly host of angels and saints. Wow!

-- Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski

When the Mass is being celebrated, the sanctuary is filled with countless angels, who adore the Divine Victim emolated on the altar.

-- St. John Chrysostom

Paul wrote, “I am speaking as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I am saying. the cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because the loaf of bread is one, we, though many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf.“

New American Bible, revised edition (1 Corinthians 10: 15 - 17)

All gather together. Christians come together in one place for the Eucharistic assembly. At its head is Christ himself, the principal agent of the Eucharist. He is high priest of the New Covenant; it is he himself who presides invisibly over every Eucharistic celebration. It is in representing him that the bishop or priest acting in the person of Christ the head (in persona Christi capitis) presides over the assembly, speaks after the readings, receives the offerings, and says the Eucharistic prayer. All have their own active parts to play in the celebration, each and his own way: readers, those who bring up the offerings, those who give communion, and the whole people whose “Amen“ manifests their participation.

Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1348)

end

HEALS Brain at the Neurological Level (EMDR Binaural & Bilateral QT4 Gam...

The Manifestation of Your Soul to All - Thursday, January 30, 2025

Rosary from Lourdes - 30/01/2025

CATHOLIC MASS TODAY at OUR LADY OF MANAOAG CHURCH LIVE MASS 5:40 A.M. ...

A lamp is to be put on a lampstand.

Jesus said to the crowd, ‘Would you bring in a lamp to put it under a tub or under the bed? Surely you will put it on the lamp-stand? For there is nothing hidden but it must be disclosed, nothing kept secret except to be brought to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen to this.’

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

To believe is to commit ourselves completely to the Lord. Recall the time I said my deepest "Yes" to Him and thank Him.

Charles, reflecting on your commitment to faith, it's clear that your spiritual journey involves a deep engagement with your beliefs through daily practices and reflections. Thank the Lord for the moment you gave your deepest "Yes" to Him, embracing a life guided by faith, hope, and love. This commitment is a beautiful testament to your spiritual growth and dedication.

Doing the Will of God - Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Rosary from Lourdes - 28/01/2025

Which one statement from the Profession of Faith speaks to my heart?

Profession of Faith

We profess the essential truths of our faith. We are saying who we are and what it means to say we are Christians. The Crede summarizes many passages of scripture about our faith. This Crede was written to combat heresies about the nature of Christ. We don't have to understand the Trinity to believe in it.

*Most Rev. Mitchell T Rozanski Archbishop of St. Louis, 2022, Passport to the Eucharist, p. 35*

Given your interests as reflected in your posts, the statement from the Profession of Faith (also known as the Nicene Creed) that likely resonates with you might be:

"We believe in one, holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church."

This line emphasizes the unity, sanctity, universality, and apostolic foundation of the Church, themes that align well with the focus on devotion, evangelism, and the liturgical practices you share in your posts.

Catholic Daily Mass - Daily TV Mass - January 28, 2025

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Are we moved by the wisdom in the words of the Gospel at Catholic Mass?

The impact of the Gospel readings during Catholic Mass can vary significantly from person to person. Here are several perspectives on this:

Spiritual and Emotional Connection: For many practicing Catholics, the Gospel readings are a central part of the liturgical experience. The words can evoke deep spiritual reflection, comfort, or even challenge one's beliefs or actions, leading to personal growth or transformation. The wisdom in these texts might resonate with individuals' life experiences, providing guidance or affirmation.
Cultural and Historical Context: Some might appreciate the Gospel not only for its spiritual content but also for its historical and cultural significance. Understanding the context in which these texts were written can deepen one's appreciation of their messages, though this might not necessarily move everyone in the same way.
Skeptical or Analytical View: There are those who approach these texts critically, perhaps questioning their relevance or interpretation in modern times. For them, the wisdom might be seen more as a subject for academic or philosophical debate rather than a source of personal inspiration.
Aesthetic Appreciation: The literary quality of the Gospel, including its parables and narratives, might move people through its storytelling, even if they do not subscribe to the religious teachings. The beauty of the language or the moral lessons can be appreciated independently of faith.
Routine or Habitual Attendance: For some, the experience of Mass might be routine, where the Gospel readings blend into the background of a habitual religious practice. Here, the wisdom might not particularly stand out unless something in the reading or its delivery by the priest strikes a chord on a particular day.
Non-Believers or Different Faiths: Individuals who do not share the Catholic faith might find the Gospel readings interesting, educational, or even beautiful, but they might not be moved in a spiritual sense. However, the universal themes of love, forgiveness, and community might still resonate.

In summary, whether one is moved by the wisdom in the Gospel at Mass depends on a myriad of personal, cultural, and contextual factors. The liturgical setting, the delivery, the personal circumstances of the listener, and their openness to spiritual experiences all play roles in how these sacred texts are received.

end

Becoming an Evangelist - Saturday, January 25, 2025

CATHOLIC MASS TODAY at OUR LADY OF MANAOAG CHURCH LIVE MASS 5:40 A.M. ...

Rosary from Lourdes - 25/01/2025

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Busy Intersection Stealth Camping

Imagine being present during the Gospel story at Mass. What do I see? What do I feel? How do I respond?

The Gospel

We stand as the priest or deacon reads the Gospel because this is an act in persona Christi. A priest is in persona Christi because he acts as Christ and God. We show respect to the words and teaching Christ came to reveal to us.

As you imagine being present during the Gospel story at Mass, here's how the experience might unfold:

What You See:

The Setting: You see Jesus, perhaps in a small, dusty town in Galilee, surrounded by people. The landscape might be simple yet vibrant, with the Sea of Galilee shimmering in the distance, or you might be in Jerusalem, with its bustling streets and the imposing Temple at its center.
The Characters: Jesus stands out, not necessarily by his appearance but by the calm authority with which he speaks. His disciples are nearby, often looking attentive or confused, trying to grasp his teachings. There's a diverse crowd - local villagers, Pharisees, tax collectors, sinners, and the sick, all drawn to his words and actions.
The Miracles or Teachings: If it's a miracle, you might see an extraordinary event unfold - a lame man walking, water turned into wine, or a storm calming at his command. If it's a teaching moment, you see Jesus using everyday scenarios or parables to convey profound truths, his eyes meeting those of the listeners, inviting them to understand.

What You Feel:

Awe and Wonder: There's a palpable sense of something miraculous, whether it's the healing of a leper or the profound simplicity of his teachings. You feel awe at the presence of divinity in human form.
Connection and Unity: The words of Jesus resonate deep within you, uniting you with everyone around you, regardless of status or sin. There's a feeling of community and shared purpose.
Hope and Peace: Despite the often tumultuous context of his ministry, you feel an overwhelming sense of peace and hope. His words offer salvation, forgiveness, and a new way of life.
Challenge and Conviction: His teachings challenge your preconceptions and personal comforts, pushing you towards introspection and a desire to change or deepen your faith.

How You Respond:

Engagement: You might find yourself leaning in to hear every word, asking questions, or simply absorbing the moment with all your senses. You're not just a passive observer but part of the narrative unfolding.
Reflection: After hearing or witnessing, you reflect on how his words or actions apply to your life. This could lead to a silent prayer, a commitment to change, or simply a moment of deep contemplation.
Action: Inspired by what you've seen and felt, you respond with acts of kindness, forgiveness, or by spreading the message you've heard. Perhaps you decide to follow him more closely, literally or metaphorically.
Worship: There's a natural inclination to worship, to sing or pray in response to the divine encounter. This might manifest in joining the crowd in exclamations of praise or in private, heartfelt prayers.

This imaginative journey through the Gospel at Mass is not just about witnessing but about being transformed by the encounter with Jesus, influencing how you live your faith in the everyday world.

end

The kingdom of God is among you

Luke 17:20-25 Asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was to come, Jesus gave them this answer, ‘The coming of the kingdom of God does not admit of observation and there will be no one to say, “Look here! Look there!” For, you must know, the kingdom of God is among you.’ He said to the disciples, ‘A time will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man and will not see it. They will say to you, “Look there!” or, “Look here!” Make no move; do not set off in pursuit; for as the lightning flashing from one part of heaven lights up the other, so will be the Son of Man when his day comes. But first he must suffer grievously and be rejected by this generation.’

Live Adoration from Tyburn Convent

Adoration, also known as Eucharistic Adoration, is a Catholic prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament. It is a sign of devotion and worship to Jesus Christ, who is believed to be present in the consecrated host. During adoration, Catholics pray to Jesus Christ before the Eucharist at their local parish. The Eucharist is typically kept in a tabernacle at the parish church, and may be presented in front of a closed tabernacle or in front of the exposed host in a monstrance. A monstrance is a vessel used in Roman Catholic, Anglican, High Church Lutheran, and Old Catholic churches. It is a stand made of precious metal that holds the Blessed Sacrament during adoration. The word "monstrance" comes from Latin and means "to show".

Love

1 Corinthians 13:4-7: Love is always patient and kind; it is never jealous; love is never boastful or conceited; it is never rude or selfish; it does not take offence, and is not resentful. Love takes no pleasure in other people’s sins but delights in the truth; it is always ready to excuse, to trust, to hope, and to endure whatever comes. 1 Corinthians 13:8-9,13: Love does not come to an end. But if there are gifts of prophecy, the time will come when they must fail; or the gift of languages, it will not continue for ever; and knowledge – for this, too, the time will come when it must fail. For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophesying is imperfect. In short, there are three things that last: faith, hope and love; and the greatest of these is love. Colossians 3:14-15: Over all these clothes, to keep them together and complete them, put on love. And may the peace of Christ reign in your hearts, because it is for this that you were called together as parts of one body. Always be thankful.

It is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword

Jesus instructed the Twelve as follows: ‘Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth: it is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. A man’s enemies will be those of his own household. ‘Anyone who prefers father or mother to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who prefers son or daughter to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who does not take his cross and follow in my footsteps is not worthy of me. Anyone who finds his life will lose it; anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it. ‘Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me; and those who welcome me welcome the one who sent me. ‘Anyone who welcomes a prophet will have a prophet’s reward; and anyone who welcomes a holy man will have a holy man’s reward. ‘If anyone gives so much as a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.’ When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples he moved on from there to teach and preach in their towns.

The beheading of John the Baptist

Matthew 14:1-12 Herod the tetrarch heard about the reputation of Jesus, and said to his court, ‘This is John the Baptist himself; he has risen from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.’ Now it was Herod who had arrested John, chained him up and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. For John had told him, ‘It is against the Law for you to have her.’ He had wanted to kill him but was afraid of the people, who regarded John as a prophet. Then, during the celebrations for Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and so delighted Herod that he promised on oath to give her anything she asked. Prompted by her mother she said, ‘Give me John the Baptist’s head, here, on a dish.’ The king was distressed but, thinking of the oaths he had sworn and of his guests, he ordered it to be given her, and sent and had John beheaded in the prison. The head was brought in on a dish and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. John’s disciples came and took the body and buried it; then they went off to tell Jesus.

Psalms 9:16

The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah - Question: What does Higgaion and Selah mean? Answer: Both Higgaion and Selah are used numerous times in the Old Testament. They occur together in Psalm 9:16. The meanings of these words are uncertain. We observe Higgaion in such passages as Psalm 9:16; 19:14; 42:3; Lamentations 3:63. In Arabic, the root gives a deep vibrating sound, like the murmering sound of a harp (Psa. 92:3). The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia states that it may be derived from the Greek versions of Psalm 9:16 and takes it to mean an instrumental interlude. It may also mean a soliloquy or meditation such as concerning the judgment of God (Psa. 9:16), the words and work of God (Psa. 19:14), and the loving kindness and faithfulness of God (Psa. 92:2-3). In the Septuagint, Selah is translated as daplasma (meaning a division). It occurs in Habakkuk 3:3, 9, 13 and 71 times in the Psalms. It is used in 39 of our 150 psalms. Of those 39 psalms, 31 they are ones handed over to "the chief Musician." So, pause and meditation may be the predominate idea. In addition, it may mean to lift up (Hebrew, salal) or, in some definitions, a repetition, end of a strophe, or a recurring symphony. In his sermon named "HIGGAION!" about Psalm 9:16, Archibald G. Brown, on August 17, 1873, at the East London Tabernacle said this: "When the psalmist wrote this verse, and reached the words 'The wicked shall be snared in the work of his own hands', he seemed to be overpowered at the terror of the thought, and so put a full stop and wrote in the word 'Higgaion!' As much as to say, 'O my soul, meditate on the tremendous truth my hand has penned, and let all who read the same meditate.' And then after 'Higgaion' he puts 'Selah'. He would have there to be a solemn pause. Oh, I would that there could be just one moment's solemn pause in our meeting tonight. Would that there could be a Selah, a Higgaion! Friends, shall there be? I put it to you. 'The Lord is known by the judgment which he executes; and the wicked shall be snared in the work of his own hands!" Now let us just for a moment meditate on that. Let there be a solemn Higgaion, and let every heart ask itself the question, 'How do I stand in reference to this tremendous truth?' *Answer by Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr. (https://thirdmill.org/answers/answer.asp/file/47892)*

Mission Statement

Friday, January 31, 2025

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Monday, January 27, 2025

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Friday, January 24, 2025

Thursday, January 23, 2025