December 25, 2024

Saints

A Visit from St. Nicholas | Twas the night before Christmas

Mother & Refuge05 mins

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the houseNot a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds;While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.Away to the window I flew like a flash,Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow,Gave a lustre of midday to objects below,When what to my wondering eyes did appear,But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer, With a little old driver so lively and quick,I knew in a moment he must be St. Nick.More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: “Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!” As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;So up to the housetop the coursers they flewWith the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too— And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roofThe prancing and pawing of each little hoof.As I drew in my head, and was turning around,Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack. His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry!His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath;He had a broad face and a little round bellyThat shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;A wink of his eye and a twist of his headSoon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,And laying his finger aside of his nose,And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight—“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

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The Miracles of Saint Nicholas: A Testimony of Faith and Compassion

Mother & Refuge08 mins

Saint Nicholas of Myra, beloved bishop and wonderworker of the early Church, is celebrated not only for his profound acts of generosity but also for the miracles that attest to his sanctity. Known as a defender of the poor, protector of the innocent, and intercessor for the faithful, his life and deeds have inspired countless generations. Below, we delve deeper into some of the most remarkable miracles attributed to this holy man, accompanied by prayers and reflections to honor his memory. The Miracle of the Dowry In the ancient city of Patara, where Nicholas was born, there lived a once-wealthy man who had fallen into poverty. Unable to provide dowries for his three daughters, the man despaired, fearing they would be forced into servitude or worse. Learning of their plight, Nicholas resolved to help without drawing attention to himself. Under the cover of night, he secretly tossed a bag of gold through their window—enough for the eldest daughter’s dowry. On subsequent nights, he repeated the act for the second and third daughters. This miracle exemplifies Saint Nicholas’s humility and his dedication to aiding those in need. It also serves as the foundation for the tradition of secret gift-giving in his honor. Prayer: O holy Nicholas, patron of the poor and defender of the downtrodden, teach us to give with a generous and humble heart. May we, through your intercession, find joy in aiding others and spreading God’s love. The Calming of the Storm As the patron saint of sailors, Saint Nicholas is credited with numerous miracles at sea. One of the most famous occurred when sailors caught in a terrible storm invoked his name, praying for deliverance. Nicholas appeared to them, either in a vision or in person, and calmed the raging seas, guiding their ship safely to port. This miracle reflects not only his power as an intercessor but also the trust the faithful place in him as a protector. Prayer: Holy Father Nicholas, protector of those who traverse the waters, calm the storms of our lives as you did the seas. Guide us safely through the tempests of this world to the eternal harbor of Christ’s love. The Resurrection of the Innocent One of the more harrowing tales associated with Saint Nicholas involves his miraculous intervention in the case of three children who had been murdered by a wicked innkeeper. According to tradition, the man had killed the children and preserved their remains in barrels of brine. Nicholas, guided by divine insight, exposed the crime and prayed over the children, restoring them to life. This miracle solidified his reputation as a guardian of children and protector of innocence, themes that resonate deeply in his veneration. Prayer: Blessed Nicholas, champion of the innocent, guard the hearts of all children and deliver them from harm. Through your prayers, may justice and mercy prevail in our lives. The Miracle of the Grain During a severe famine in Myra, Saint Nicholas interceded on behalf of his starving flock. He approached sailors docked in the city’s harbor, who were transporting grain to the Emperor in Constantinople. Though they initially refused his request, fearing imperial punishment, Nicholas assured them that their cargo would remain intact. Remarkably, after sharing their grain with the townspeople, the sailors discovered that their shipment was undiminished. This miracle not only reveals Saint Nicholas’s compassion but also his ability to inspire faith and courage in others. Prayer: Saint Nicholas, provider for the hungry and advocate for the poor, help us to trust in God’s providence. May we, like you, be instruments of His abundance. The Legacy of Intercession Beyond these well-known miracles, Saint Nicholas’s intercessions have been invoked for countless other needs. Pilgrims visiting his relics in Bari, Italy, often report miraculous healings and spiritual renewal. His incorrupt relics exude a fragrant myrrh, known as “Manna of Saint Nicholas,” believed to have healing properties. Such wonders remind the faithful of his continued presence and advocacy in the heavenly court. Liturgical Hymn (Troparion): The truth of things hath revealed thee to thy flock as a rule of faith, a model of meekness, and a teacher of temperance; for this cause thou hast achieved the heights by humility, riches by poverty. O Father Nicholas, intercede with Christ God that our souls may be saved. Reflections on the Life of Saint Nicholas The miracles of Saint Nicholas, deeply rooted in acts of compassion and justice, offer timeless lessons. His life encourages us to: Embrace Humility: Like Nicholas, we are called to serve others without seeking recognition. Act with Courage: Whether calming storms or confronting wrongdoing, Nicholas showed that faith emboldens us to act righteously. Trust in Divine Providence: The miracle of the grain reminds us that God provides for all needs when we act in faith. Closing Prayer O glorious Saint Nicholas, faithful servant of Christ and fervent intercessor, we turn to you in prayer. Inspire us to live lives of charity and faith, as you did. Be our advocate before the throne of God, that we may one day rejoice with you in His eternal kingdom. Amen.  

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Make a ‘Good’ Confession This Christmas: A Confession Guide for Adults | Preparing Your Heart for Christ’s Nativity

Mother & Refuge017 mins

1. I am the Lord your God. You shall not have strange gods before me.-Do I give God time every day in prayer?-Do I seek to love Him with my whole heart?-Have I been involved with superstitious practices or have I been involved with the occult?-Do I seek to surrender myself to God´s word as taught by the Church?-Have I ever received communion in the state of mortal sin?-Have I ever deliberately told a lie in Confession or have I withheld a mortal sin from the priest in Confession?-Are there other “gods” in my life? Money, Security, Power, People, etc.? 2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.-Have I used God´s name in vain: lightly or carelessly?-Have I been angry with God?-Have I wished evil upon any other person?-Have I insulted a sacred person or abused a sacred object? 3. Remember to keep holy the Lord´s Day.-Have I deliberately missed Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation?-Have I tried to observe Sunday as a family day and a day of rest?-Do I do needless work on Sunday? 4. Honor your father and your mother.-Do I honor and obey my parents?-Have I neglected my duties to my spouse and children?-Have I given my family good religious example?-Do I try to bring peace into my home life?-Do I care for my aged and infirm relatives? 5. You shall not kill.-Have I had an abortion or encouraged or helped anyone to have an abortion?-Have I physically harmed anyone?-Have I abused alcohol or drugs?-Did I give scandal to anyone, thereby leading him or her into sin?-Have I been angry or resentful?-Have I harbored hatred in my heart?-Have I mutilated myself through any form of sterilization?-Have I encouraged or condoned sterilization?-Have I engaged, in any way, in sins against humanlife such as artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization?-Have I participated in or approved of euthanasia? 6. You shall not commit adultery.-Have I been faithful to my marriage vows in thought and action?-Have I engaged in any sexual activity outside of marriage?-Have I used any method of contraception or artificial birth control in my marriage?-Has each sexual act in my marriage been open to the transmission of new life?-Have I been guilty of masturbation?-Do I seek to control my thoughts and imaginations?-Have I respected all members of the opposite sex, or have I thought of other people as mere objects?-Have I been guilty of any homosexual activity?-Do I seek to be chaste in my thoughts, words,actions?-Am I careful to dress modestly? 7. You shall not steal.-Have I stolen what is not mine?-Have I returned or made restitution for what I have stolen?-Do I waste time at work, school, and home?-Do I gamble excessively, thereby denying my family of their needs?-Do I pay my debts promptly?-Do I seek to share what I have with the poor?-Have I cheated anyone out of what is justly theirs, for example creditors, insurance companies, big corporations? 8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.-Have I lied? Have I gossiped?-Do I speak badly of others behind their back?-Am I sincere in my dealings with others?-Am I critical, negative or uncharitable in my thoughts of others?-Do I keep secret what should be kept confidential?-Have I injured the reputation of others by slanders? 9. You shall not desire your neighbor´s wife.-Have I consented to impure thoughts?-Have I caused them by impure reading, movies, television, conversation or curiosity?-Do I pray at once to banish impure thoughts and temptations?-Have I behaved in an inappropriate way with members of the opposite sex: flirting, being superficial, etc.? 10. You shall not desire your neighbor´s goods.-Am I jealous of what other people have?-Do I envy the families or possessions of others?-Am I greedy or selfish?-Are material possessions the purpose of my life? A GUIDE TO CONFESSION How to go to Confession 1. You always have the option to go to confession anonymously, that is, behind a screen or face to face, if you so desire. 2. After the priest greets you in the name of Christ, make the sign of the cross. He may choose to recite a reading from Scripture, after which you say: “Bless me Father for I have sinned. It has been (state how long) since my last confession. These are my sins.” 3. Tell your sins simply and honestly to the priest. You might even want to discuss the circumstances and the root causes of your sins and ask the priest for advice or direction. 4. Listen to the advice the priest gives you and accept the penance from him. Then make an Act of Contrition for your sins. 5. The priest will then dismiss you with the words of praise: “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. You respond: “For His mercy endures forever.” The priest will then conclude with:”The Lord has freed you from your sins. Go in peace.” And you respond by saying: “Thanks be to God.” 6. Spend some time with Our Lord thanking and praising Him for the gift of His mercy. Try to perform your penance as soon as possible. PRAYER BEFORE CONFESSIONO most merciful God! Prostrate at your feet, I implore your forgiveness. I sincerely desire to leave all my evil ways and to confess my sins with all sincerity to you and to your priest. I am a sinner, have mercy on me, O Lord. Give me a lively faith and a firm hope in the Passion of my Redeemer. Give me, for your mercy´s sake a sorrow for having offended so good a God. Mary, my mother, refuge of sinners, pray for me that I may make a good confession. Amen. AN ACT OF CONTRITION Oh my God,I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.In choosing to do wrongAnd failing to do good,I have sinned against youwhom I should love above all things.I firmly intend, with your help,to do penance,to sin no more,and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.Our Savior Jesus Christsuffered and died for us.In His name, my God, have…

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5 Steps To Prepare Yourself For a Holy Advent Season

Mother & Refuge013 mins

5 Steps to Prepare Yourself for a Holy Advent The Season of Waiting, Hope, and Preparation As we approach the holy season of Advent, the Church invites us into a time of waiting, reflection, and spiritual preparation. Advent is not simply the countdown to Christmas, but a sacred journey of prayer and purification, where we prepare our hearts to welcome the Lord, who comes to us in many forms—through His Word, through His people, and in His second coming. Let us, then, take up the call to prepare ourselves spiritually and mentally, so that when the Christ Child arrives, our hearts are ready to receive Him. Here are five steps, each with meditations, prayers, and Scripture to guide you on your way to a holy Advent. 1. Re-Examine Your Heart: A Time of Repentance and Purification Advent invites us to examine our hearts and to cleanse ourselves of sin and distractions. Just as the Israelites longed for the Messiah, so too should we yearn for Christ’s presence in our lives. This first step is to prepare the way by purifying our hearts through repentance. Scripture Meditation“Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.” (Matthew 3:3)This call from John the Baptist reminds us that we must clear away any obstacles in our lives that hinder us from fully embracing God’s love. Through repentance, we make room for the Lord to enter our hearts more deeply. Prayer of RepentanceLord, as we prepare for Your coming, help us to see where we have strayed from Your path. Forgive us for our sins, heal our brokenness, and give us the strength to walk in Your ways.“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10) Homily ThoughtAdvent calls us to a deeper self-awareness, where we recognize our need for God’s mercy and grace. Just as we clean our homes in preparation for guests, so too must we purify our hearts, allowing the light of Christ to shine more brightly within us. Repentance is not only about acknowledging sin but making a conscious decision to turn back to God, to make space for Him once again. 2. Renew Your Prayer Life: A Time of Deepening Communion with God Advent is a time to renew our commitment to prayer. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to neglect our time with God. This season calls us back to the practice of prayer, whether through the Liturgy of the Hours, personal devotion, or meditation on the Scriptures. Scripture Meditation“But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.” (1 Peter 4:7)This verse reminds us that prayer is our connection to God and our means of remaining vigilant as we await His coming. Prayer keeps our hearts focused and our spirits prepared. Prayer for Strength in PrayerLord, help me to make time each day to be with You. In the busyness of this world, teach me to listen to Your voice and to keep my heart in constant communion with You.“Lord, teach us to pray.” (Luke 11:1) Homily ThoughtAdvent is a time of expectant waiting, but it is also a time for deepening our relationship with God through prayer. As we await the coming of Christ, we are reminded that prayer is not just about asking for things, but about sitting with the Lord in silence, allowing His presence to fill our hearts. 3. Cultivate a Spirit of Hope: Trust in God’s Promises Advent is a season of hope. The word “Advent” itself means “coming,” and we are called to anticipate the fulfillment of God’s promises—both His coming in history, when He was born in Bethlehem, and His future coming in glory at the end of time. It is a time to renew our hope in Christ. Scripture Meditation“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” (Isaiah 9:2)This prophecy is a beautiful reminder that even in the darkest of times, God’s light breaks through, offering hope and salvation. We are called to live in that light, trusting that Christ will return to bring about the fullness of His Kingdom. Prayer of HopeLord, as I wait for Your coming, fill my heart with hope. Help me to trust in Your promises, even when the world around me seems dark and uncertain.“Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” (Mark 9:24) Homily ThoughtAdvent is a time to awaken our hearts to the light of Christ. The darkness of the world, filled with uncertainty, can tempt us to despair. But Advent reminds us that Christ is our hope, and His coming is the light that drives out the darkness. May we wait in hope, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises. 4. Practice Charity: A Time to Serve Others During Advent, we are invited to make room for others, especially the poor, the lonely, and the suffering. Charity—both spiritual and corporal—is an essential part of our preparation for Christ’s coming. Our acts of love and service to others prepare us to receive Christ, who came to serve and save. Scripture Meditation“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)In this famous passage, Jesus teaches us that serving others is a way to serve Him. Advent is an opportunity to practice this kind of radical love, reaching out to those in need, especially during the Christmas season. Prayer for CharityLord, teach me to love as You loved, to give without counting the cost, and to serve those in need with a joyful heart.“Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty? When did we see You a stranger and welcome You?” (Matthew 25:37) Homily ThoughtIn the Incarnation, Christ shows us that love is not abstract; it is concrete, manifested in acts of service. During Advent,…

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Chronology of WW3 According to Catholic Prophecies

Mother & Refuge09 mins

Chronology of WW3 According to Catholic Prophecies Exploring Catholic Mystics’ Insights into Modern Global Tensions Catholic prophecy has long spoken of an apocalyptic conflict involving multiple nations, leading to divine chastisement and ultimate renewal. While World War III (WW3) is not explicitly named, the mystics and visionaries of the Church have described events that closely parallel the tensions unfolding in the modern world, including in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and beyond. Here is a detailed chronology, weaving prophetic revelations with contemporary geopolitics. 1. Prelude to the Conflict: Spiritual and Moral Decay Catholic prophecy often emphasizes that war is a consequence of humanity’s rejection of God. Our Lady of La Salette (1846): “The Church will be in eclipse, the world will be in dismay.” This foretells a widespread loss of faith and moral decay as precursors to global conflict. St. Faustina Kowalska (1930s): In her diary, she records Christ’s warning that mankind’s sinfulness could lead to great suffering: “If they do not repent, a greater punishment will come.” Modern parallels: Growing secularism and apostasy, even within the Church. Escalation of societal divisions over issues like abortion, gender ideology, and religious freedom. The global acceptance of moral relativism, which weakens the spiritual foundation of nations. 2. Geopolitical Flashpoints: The Middle East and Eastern Europe The Israel-Iran-Palestine Conflict Catholic mystics have hinted at the Middle East being a flashpoint for a great war. Fr. Stefano Gobbi (Marian Movement of Priests): He spoke of “a terrible crisis that will erupt in the heart of the Holy Land.” St. Nilus the Myrrh-Gusher (5th century): Prophesied a time of “wars erupting over sacred lands.” Modern developments: Rising tensions between Israel and Iran over nuclear weapons. The escalating Israel-Palestine conflict, marked by religious and territorial disputes, could spark wider regional warfare, drawing in global powers. The Russia-Ukraine War The Russia-Ukraine war aligns with prophecies regarding the role of Russia in future global conflict. Our Lady of Fatima (1917): “Russia will spread her errors throughout the world, causing wars and persecutions of the Church.” While this primarily referred to communism, the aggressive actions of Russia today are seen as part of this warning. Sr. Elena Aiello (1950s): “Russia will march upon all the nations of Europe, particularly Italy, and will raise her flag over St. Peter’s.” Modern developments: The ongoing war in Ukraine threatens to escalate, with NATO and other global powers increasingly involved. Potential alliances between Russia, China, and Iran add to the complexity, raising fears of a broader conflict. 3. The Spark: A Sudden and Global Escalation Catholic mystics have described WW3 as a sudden and unexpected eruption of violence that consumes the world. Blessed Elena Aiello: “Another terrible war will come from the East to the West. Russia with her secret armies will battle America.” Marie-Julie Jahenny: She foresaw civil wars, natural disasters, and invasions leading to a global conflagration. Modern parallels: The potential for a sudden attack by Iran or its proxies on Israel, leading to a broader Middle Eastern war. Russia’s growing aggression, potentially targeting other European nations. Cyberwarfare and nuclear threats heighten the risk of rapid escalation. 4. The Role of China and the East Catholic prophecy often includes references to the rise of powerful Eastern nations. St. John Bosco: In his visions, he saw an Eastern power invading Europe, causing widespread devastation. Our Lady of Akita (1973): “Fire will fall from the sky and will wipe out a great part of humanity.” Some interpret this as a reference to modern weapons, including those from Asia. Modern parallels: China’s growing military strength and alliances with Russia and Iran position it as a potential catalyst for WW3. Tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan could spark a broader Pacific conflict, involving the U.S. and its allies. 5. The Climax: The Three Days of Darkness The height of the conflict is marked by a supernatural event—the Three Days of Darkness. Blessed Anna Maria Taigi: She described the earth being engulfed in total darkness for three days. Only blessed candles would provide light, and those outside God’s grace would perish. Marie-Julie Jahenny: “The air will be infected, and storms of fire will fall from the sky.” This event symbolizes divine intervention to end the war, purging evil from the world. 6. The Aftermath: The Triumph of the Immaculate Heart After the chastisement, Catholic prophecies foretell a period of peace and spiritual renewal. Our Lady of Fatima: “In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph, and a period of peace will be granted to the world.” St. John Bosco: In his visions, he saw the Church emerging victorious, guiding the world to a new era of faith. Modern hopes: These prophecies encourage the faithful to trust in God’s plan, even amid chaos. Devotion to the Rosary and the Sacred Heart are emphasized as means of spiritual protection. Spiritual Response Catholic prophecy, while foreboding, is ultimately a call to conversion. The faithful are urged to: Pray the Rosary daily for peace. Consecrate themselves to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Practice penance to atone for the sins of the world. Sources and Further Reading The Secrets of Fatima by Sister Lucia Prophecies of Blessed Elena Aiello The Mystical Revelations of Marie-Julie Jahenny St. John Bosco’s Dreams and Visions This detailed chronology ties together the warnings of Catholic mystics with the geopolitics of our time, emphasizing the need for prayer and trust in God as humanity faces its greatest trials.

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The Patron Saint of TV?? You Won’t Believe Who!

Mother & Refuge03 mins

It might seem a bit odd that a saint from nearly 800 years ago would be the patroness of television—but that’s exactly the case! St. Clare of Assisi was officially given this title by Pope Pius XII in 1957. Born in 1194 into a noble family, Clare turned her back on wealth and privilege to embrace a life of faith. Inspired as a teenager by St. Francis of Assisi, she became his devoted follower. At a time when no other women had joined his mission, Clare was sent to live at a Benedictine monastery. Soon after, her sister joined her, and together they established a new community near the Church of San Damiano in Assisi, which would later become known as the Poor Clares. Clare’s devotion to poverty was unshakeable. Even bishops and popes couldn’t sway her commitment to a simple life rooted in trust in God. She led her order with unwavering determination and humility. As she aged, Clare’s health declined significantly. On one Christmas Eve, too ill to attend Mass, she longed to be with her community for the celebration. Tradition holds that God granted her a miraculous vision: the sights and sounds of the Mass were projected onto the wall of her room, allowing her to participate from afar. Fast forward centuries to the invention of television—literally meaning “vision from afar”—and this miraculous story must have come to mind for Pope Pius XII. Recognizing both the potential for good and the dangers of this powerful new medium, he declared St. Clare the patroness of television, entrusting the world of screens to her intercession. Pius XII, in a prophetic reflection on the medium, noted that television could bring great blessings but also serious challenges. Who better to guide its influence than a saint known for her humility, simplicity, and steadfast faith? On Valentine’s Day, 1957, St. Clare was formally named the patroness of television, reminding us that even in the world of modern technology, we can look to the saints for guidance. St. Clare of Assisi, pray for us!

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St. Thérèse’s prophetic words to St. Faustina in a dream?

Mother & Refuge02 mins

St. Faustina had a difficult time when she was a novice, experiencing both interior and exterior forms of suffering. She prayed to a variety of saints for help, but did not receive any consolation. Then she prayed to St. Thérèse of Lisieux and her novena was very successful. The dream St. Faustina was a novice in the 1920s, and St. Thérèse was canonized in 1925, but St. Faustina knew of her and her autobiography even before she entered the convent. She also likely heard many of the favors that St. Thérèse was known for and decided to pray a novena to the Little Flower in hopes that she would intercede for her before God. St. Faustina writes about the dream in her Diary, explaining how she saw St. Thérèse on the fifth day of her novena: On the fifth day of the novena, I dreamed of St. Thérèse, but it was as if she were stillliving on earth. She hid from me the fact that she was a saint and began to comfort me,saying that I should not be worried about this matter, but should trust more in God. Shesaid, “I suffered greatly, too,” but I did not quite believe her and said, “It seems to me thatyou have not suffered at all.” Read more…

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Powerful Prayer to St Peregrine for Cancer Patients

Mother & Refuge05 mins

Are you suffering from cancer? Or do you know someone who is? These prayers to St. Peregrine can give you hope! This first one is for those afflicted with this deadly disease: St. Peregrine, whom Holy Mother Church has declared Patron of those suffering from Cancer, I confidently turn to you for help in my present sickness. I beg your kind intercession. Ask God to relieve me of this sickness, if it be his Holy Will. Plead with the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Sorrows, whom you loved so tenderly and in union with whom you have suffered the pains of Cancer, that she may help me with her powerful prayers and loving consolation. But if it should be God’s Holy Will that I bear this sickness, obtain for me courage and strength to accept these trials from the loving hand of God with patience and resignation, because he knows what is best for the salvation of my soul. St. Peregrine, be my friend and patron. Help me to imitate you in accepting suffering, and to unite myself with Jesus Crucified and the Mother of Sorrows, as you did. I offer my pains to God with all the love of my heart, for his glory and the salvation of souls, especially my own. Amen. The second of these prayers to St. Peregrine is for others’ intentions. O great St. Peregrine, you have been called “The Mighty,” “The Wonder-Worker,” because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you. For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of the sick whom we entrust to you. (Pause here and silently recall the names of the sick for whom you are praying) Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing to God, now and for all eternity, a song of gratitude for His great goodness and mercy. Amen. St. Peregrine is known as the patron saint of cancer patients, AIDS victims and others suffering from serious illnesses. These two prayers give us an intriguing glimpse into his life’s story. Peregrine Laziosi was born in 1260 in Forli, Italy to a wealthy family. Although he was a member of an anti-papal party as a young man, he experienced a profound change of heart, much like St. Paul’s conversion in its intensity. He and some companions showed up one day to heckle and otherwise abuse St. Philip Benizi, the Prior General of the Servants of Mary, who was preaching in Forli. Peregrine went so far as to strike him in the face! St. Philip, seemingly following our Lord’s advice in scripture (Matt 5:39, Luke 6:29), offered his other cheek in response. Read more…

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St. Hyacinth’s Divine Rescue: The Eucharist and Mary’s Miraculous Salvage

Mother & Refuge05 mins

St. Hyacinth of Poland, a revered Dominican friar and missionary, is celebrated not only for his dedication to spreading Christianity but also for a series of miraculous events that underscore his deep faith and the protective grace of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Among these remarkable stories, one stands out: the miraculous rescue of the Eucharist and a statue of Mary during a time of great peril. The Context of Crisis In the early 13th century, St. Hyacinth was traveling through the city of Kiev, which was under siege by invading forces. The city was engulfed in flames, and the situation was dire. St. Hyacinth, committed to his mission and carrying the Blessed Sacrament with him, faced a daunting challenge. The city’s destruction and the advancing enemy forces made it nearly impossible for him to escape, and he knew the sacred relics he carried were at risk. The Miraculous Intervention As the flames surrounded him and the enemy closed in, St. Hyacinth found himself cornered. His situation seemed hopeless, but his faith never wavered. With profound trust in the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, he prayed fervently for her protection and guidance. In that critical moment, a miraculous event occurred. According to tradition, a powerful gust of wind—believed to be a sign of Mary’s intervention—suddenly swept through the area. This divine wind cleared the path, blowing away debris and obstacles that were blocking St. Hyacinth’s escape route. The way was miraculously opened, allowing him to flee the encroaching enemy and the destructive flames. The Rescue of the Eucharist and Statue of Mary During his escape, St. Hyacinth was carrying not only the Eucharist but also a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, both of which were of immense spiritual significance. The miraculous intervention ensured that both the Eucharist and the statue were preserved. St. Hyacinth’s safe retreat was seen as a direct result of Mary’s protection and his unwavering faith. The story of St. Hyacinth’s escape and the miraculous preservation of these sacred items became a symbol of divine intervention and protection. It reinforced the belief in the power of prayer and the protective grace of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The event was celebrated by his followers as a testament to his holiness and the miraculous support he received from heaven. Legacy of Faith St. Hyacinth’s miraculous rescue of the Eucharist and the statue of Mary remains a powerful reminder of his deep devotion and the divine assistance that often accompanies steadfast faith. His life and the miracles attributed to him continue to inspire believers, highlighting the profound impact of prayer, trust, and divine intervention in the face of adversity. The story of St. Hyacinth’s divine rescue underscores the belief that faith, combined with the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, can lead to miraculous outcomes. It is a testament to the enduring power of divine protection and the sacred nature of the Eucharist and Marian devotion in the Christian faith.

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