ANGELS UNAWARE

ANGELS UNAWARE

It was 4:30 am, a blustery December morning in D.C. I had been there the day before for meetings, and my flight home scheduled for the night before had been cancelled due to ice and snow. I was on stand-by for the first flight out Wednesday morning, if I could get to the airport be-fore 5:00 am.
My mood was hardly the best.
I hailed a cab.
I was tired, cold, coughing. The driver had the radio on. We listened to news of shootings of kids on a school bus, bombings, and assassinations in the Middle East, war in various places around the world.
Christmas seemed far away, long ago.
The cabbie observed how dangerous the world was. After the news, he told me he and his family had fled a war-torn nation as refugees.
I commented on how his job—driving a cab in the middle of the night in a city hardly known for its safety—was far from safe.
He turned on the light and pointed to the sun visor above him. There was an image of the Madonna and Child (Mind you, he had no way of knowing I was a priest, as I had my scarf wrapped around my neck, covering my clerical col-lar.) “Jesus and Mary are my only protection,” he in-formed me. “Yes, danger is everywhere. We can only be truly safe with them.”
Some angel—a messenger from heaven—usually crosses my path every year as Christmas nears. When I entered Reagan National Airport, “Silent Night” was on the speak-er. This year’s angel came in the guise of a cabbie.
I’m glad I left him a good tip.
Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan
Doers of the Word ~ Putting Your Faith Into Practice

3rd Sunday of Advent

3rd Sunday of Advent

Holiday magazines are well known for providing quick, practical ideas for trimming the house, wel-coming guests, and preparing enticing food. The suggestions that are offered are designed to help the host and hostess show off a stunning atmos-phere without spending days and weeks preparing for a party or dinner that may only last an hour or two. Often eve-ryday items are transformed with a swatch of fabric, a can-dle, or some evergreens. Ingenious cutting makes plain vegetables or ordinary hors d'oeuvres into holiday delights. The operative concepts in getting people to buy these idea books and read them are: quick, easy, and practical.

In the Gospel today, John the Baptist offers quick, easy, and practical ideas for those who would prepare for the coming of the Christ. As St. Luke tells us, people in his day were filled with expectation. John was pretty straightfor-ward in what he thought they should do: If you have two coats, give one away to somebody who doesn't have one; be equitable in your dealings with others; don't push people around; don't lie about people. In modern parlance, we might say that John the Baptist was asking people to act justly in the world.

Unfortunately, today we don't often think of justice as quick, easy, or practical. Our understanding of justice is more often colored by the contemporary legal system than by the divine laws of the covenant that binds God and his people. There was a reciprocity and equanimity in the cove-nantal relationship. There were duties to be fulfilled on each side. John was asking that those who were filled with expectation for the coming of the Messiah would set them-selves aright with one another so that God's covenant would find full expression in the relationships that bind people to God and to one another. Justice is really about leveling things out. And when you think about it, that is pretty easy. If you have more, then you share.

First Sunday of Advent

First Sunday of Advent

Christmas dinner in most homes is planned weeks in advance. Guests are expected; we must be ready for them with a magnificent feast. On that day, a perfect choreography of timing will ensure that everything arrives on the table hot and ready to eat. But what if we had no idea what time our guests would be arriving? Would we still be prepared? How would we greet them when they finally do arrive?'

On this first Sunday of Advent, we are given to recall and renew our greatest expectation, the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Just as the faithful prepared for the glori-ous coming of the Messiah, no one knew the hour or even the day, let alone that this coming would be in such a humble place as a stable in Bethlehem. Likewise, Jesus cautions us that not even the angels in heaven know when the Son of God will return. "What I say to you, then, I say to all: Watch!"

As we remember the anticipation of the coming of the Messiah and renew our spirits to prepare for Christ's return, we must know that there is "no surer pledge or clearer sign of this great hope in the new heavens and new earth ... than the Eucharist." (CCC, 1405) We are anxiously awaiting the most glorious of guests, who promises to be with us soon if we only live through his eyes and his heart now. Our meal is prepared, our feast is ready. Are we?

Our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe
~Ginny Ambrose


During my years as a pastoral musician I’ve had the
wonderful opportunity to meet many talented musicians.
One such musician is singer, songwriter, Allison Waldrop. I
met Allison in 1995 when we both worked for the Steel
City Medjugorie Convention which was held in Pittsburgh.
Her music was both contemplative and passionate,
moving listeners to greater spiritual depth and love for
God. I had the privilege of working with her when she did a
mini “music-mission’ with me for the youth of my parish.
One of the songs we used was her beautiful and moving,
“King Jesus, I Love You”. Each year I play this song on the
Feast of Christ, the King, and this year is no exception.
Since this song always draws comment, I thought it would
be ok with Allison if I printed the text of the lyrics for our
parishioners:

 King Jesus, I Love You
King Jesus, I love you. Redeemer, I praise you.
You are the Morningstar, the great “I AM”,
the Shepherd of my heart.
King Jesus, I love you, Redeemer, I praise you.
You are the Great High Priest, the Hope of Glory,
The Healer of my soul.
I stand in awe of your presence,
being given the heart of a child.
I wonder in your majesty
and walk in the comfort of your light.
In the company of angels and saints,
I give you endless praise.
May your name be forever exalted,
as your glory shines forever more!

Important Update Affects “Agnus Dei”

On September 12, 2012 there was an update made to
“Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship”, a
document developed by the Committee on Divine
Worship of the United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops (USCCB). The USCCB Administrative Committee
has made a change in the text of the document so that
the Agnus Dei, (Lamb of God) would be brought into
conformity with the General Instruction of the Roman
Missal. The original text of the document allowed for the
use of “tropes” (additional Christological invocations
such as “Jesus, Bread of Life”, and “Jesus, Prince of
Peace”, etc). The revised text now explains that “the
invocation accompanies the fraction and, for this
reason, may be repeated as many times as necessary
until the rite has reached its conclusion,” (STL, 188),
but the “Agnus Dei should not be prolonged
unnecessarily nor may other texts be added to this
chant.” (GIRM, no. 83)

In the post Vatican II Church, composers began to
expand the texts, taking a more creative approach to the
prayers in the sung Mass parts. Presently, simply put,
when we sing the “Lamb of God’ before Communion, only
the title of “Lamb of God” will be able to be used. In
addition to this, the document “Sing to the Lord”, will
undergo an editorial review in light of the third edition of
the Roman Missal.

Seeds of Love

“When the wind blows, then a garden grows, and the fields are gold and fine... Then the love you’ve left behind is the fruit that turns to wine.” - lyrics from the song, “When the Wind Blows”

This Saturday we welcomed 54 engaged couples from our diocese and surrounding areas as they attended our Pre-Cana Day of Reflection. The day spent with them is always full of blessings as their love is a witness of God’s undying love for all of humanity and His covenant with us. They are at the beginning of what will be a journey of commitment, fidelity and love. They will start new traditions and strive to retain and celebrate those traditions brought with them from childhood.

We can mark milestones in our lives with visible signs that will last as a remembrance through the years. When John and I were married we planted 2 vines around our deck. The vines bloomed on our wedding day, and each year on our anniversary. They grow as a living symbol of our commitment and love as they continue to entwine their branches and expand as our family expands and grows. As God unites these couples on their wedding day, our prayer as a congregation is that their commitment to each other will last a lifetime as they plant seeds of love.

The Garden Saints - St. Valentine (February 14)

Martyred around the year A.D. 270 for refusing to renounce his Christian faith, “Valentinus,” or St. Valentine is widely recognized as the patron of lovers. He was arrested and imprisoned upon being caught marrying Christian couples and otherwise aiding Christians who were at the time being persecuted by Claudius in Rome. It is said that on the eve of his death, while imprisoned, he restored the sight of his jailor’s blind daughter and even wrote her a farewell note, signing it: “From your Valentine.”

Seeds of Virtue

This past week I was among a group of 41 pilgrims that made the journey across Pennsylvania to Lancaster. Lancaster is surrounded by rural vastness: farms, valleys, quaint stores and cottages, animals, and fields upon fields of crops, mainly corn. The simplicity of the life of the Amish was evident in their humble way of living with little or no creature comforts. They greeted us with friendliness and their hospitality was welcoming and sincere. Toward the end of our 2-day journey we visited a large dairy farm. Our group was led into a milking barn in which stood a very large carousel which held about 50 cows at one time as they were milked. Someone remarked that the cows looked like they were enjoying their ride on the cow merry-go-round! The cows entered their milking stall on the carousel one by one, climbing in through a narrow gate. What a surprise it was to see the many cows waiting their turn in a peaceful and orderly fashion. When their ride on the carousel was done, they simply backed off (did you ever see a cow back up?) and walked slowly to the next area, which was the “cow massage area.” There, a wand resembling a car wash apparatus massaged their backs. Once again, the cows patiently waited their turn to receive a massage. It was really quite a sight, and we watched in awe and amazement from a special viewing platform atop the milking area. As my car rolls daily down routes 28 and 65, through many bottlenecks, construction zones, and merges, I can’t help but think of the way the cows treated each other. It is my hope that I can take a lesson from those gentle creatures. Maybe we all can?

The Garden Saints - St. George (April 23)

Saint George, the patron saint of farmers, was born in Cappadocia around A.D. 270 as a Christian and served in the Roman army. He is best known for his fortitude in battle, and performed many miracles, one in which he resurrected a farmer’s herd of dead oxen. The patron saint of many countries, and of the Boy Scouts, he was martyred for protesting the Emperor's persecution of Christians.

Seeds of Prayer

A wonderful way to show our love for Mary is to plant roses in our gardens. Those roses can be placed in such a way that they form a "living rosary" and serve as a prayer garden. A bench to pray on could be placed at each decade of the floral rosary, offering a place of solitude, rest and meditation. For those without space for this type of garden, consider placing 10 potted plants (even silk roses)in a circle surrounding a chair or bench. Each plant represents one bead of the rosary. A lit votive candle and music complete the prayer atmosphere. Set aside time to pray there, to meditate on our Lord, throughour mediatrix, our heavenly Mother, the lady in blue.

The Garden Saints

The Lady dressed in blue ... we all know her, we all love her ... you need only to walk down any street to see a statue of Mary in an alcove or surrounded by a flower garden. She is Queen of the Universe, the Patroness of the United States, and her Assumption, we celebrate this week, is said to have been a divine gift to her as the "Mother of God."

There are many titles and feast days honoring Mary, two of which fall in August. August 15 is the Feast of the Assumption and August 22 is the Queenship of Mary. She is an advocate to her Divine Son and the Heavenly Father, imploring us to increase devotion to our Lord by the celebration of Mass and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. What better wya to show love and respect to any mother than to love her son?

Nectar from Heaven

During warm weather months, before the sun rises, I take great pleasure in sitting in the garden. It is a peaceful time and there is little noise except for birds and an occasional news helicopter reporting the traffic on Route 28. As of late, there has been a noisy visitor, albeit a welcome one. A green hummingbird, (rarely seen in the city), has been visiting my Canna Lillies. He hovers so closely that the flutter of his wings can be heard as he draws the sweet nectar into his long thin beak. Sometimes he returns three or four times to the same flower, as if he can’t get enough. It makes me think of this weekend’s Gospel reading of John 6: 24-35, “He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” How sweet, this heavenly bread is, sweeter than any nectar found on the vine. We can never get enough of this heavenly bread! Soon, farmers will harvest wheat and it will be used to make our earthly bread. I wonder how many farmers or how much acreage it takes to feed all the people in our country… As manna fed the children of Israel, so too, may we be fed daily on the true Bread of Life.

The Garden Saints

St. Isidore (May 15), born in Spain in 1070 and died in 1130, worked as a poor laborer in the fields and was known for his kindness to people and animals. He performed miracles, one of which involved the multiplication of food upon his witnessing a flock of starving birds, and another time when he was sharing his food with a large group of beggars. He is known as the patron of Madrid, Spain and considered the patron of farmers, as well as patron of the United States National Rural Life Conference.

Seeds of Abundance

Last year I planted wildflowers. The seeds came in one of those convenient little salt shaker type containers, promising an abundance of flowers by midsummer ... a veritable “meadow in a can!" It looked easy, so I bought two cans. (If one can gives you a meadow, then two cans could only mean double happiness!) There I stood in May, shaking and spreading seeds like a baker sprinkles confectioner’s sugar on a Bundt cake. And I waited for my meadow to appear. By June I had sprouts ... thousands of them. By July, a meadow had appeared in Lawrenceville. And by August, when I could no longer see the bird bath, the garden statues, or the lawn furniture, I realized that too much of a good thing can cause big problems. This year I planted nasturtiums. They’re a little better behaved. I learned an important message of “garden prudence” that can be applied to every day life: only sow seeds that can be managed - seeds of kindness and love. Ignore those which can quickly multiply and cause large problems down the road - seeds of gossip and greed, seeds of negativity. And pray to St. Anthony when you lose your fig tree.

The Garden Saints

St. Anthony of Padua (June 13), is usually depicted with the Child Jesus. Scripture this weekend teaches us that true faith yields a harvest of abundance. Most of us pray to St. Anthony to help us locate something we’ve lost, which is the reason why I placed a statue of the saint in my own garden ... he once helped me to locate a fig tree I had buried two winters ago! Since St. Anthony is commonly shown holding a lily, statues of him can also be found among those pure white flowers which bloom in June, the month of his feast day.

Seeds of Tranquility

While away on my recent vacation to the Jersey shore I visited a popular landmark, the Hereford Lighthouse. It stands at the northern end of Wildwood at the top of a sea wall. I spent many mornings walking there at sunrise. With each rotation of its light, Hereford Lighthouse warns mariners of the dangers of the impending shallow waters and the rocks below. On the west side of the structure is a very large cottage garden which has long been a place of tranquility and peace for visitors. I’ve always considered it a privilege to meander through this paradise of annuals, perennials, and herbs, while listening to the ocean and watching birds and squirrels nest in the branches of the many trees that border the gardens. At the end of one of the garden’s hidden paths stands a statue of St. Francis of Assisi, with his arms outstretched in welcome. He seems to know his mission is to offer repose. Stormy seas may whirl below, but peace and tranquility reign here. We can take inspiration from this paradox. Amidst the storms of life, not far from the shoals, there exists a peace … and a piece of heaven. Maybe by exploring a new or hidden path, we can find it!

The Garden Saints

St. Francis of Assisi (October 4) is probably best known for his patronage of animals and the environment. Most gardens have a statue depicting the likeness of the peaceful saint in their gardens. His serene nature has inspired poetry, songs and prayers to be written about him. His own prayer-song, “The Canticle of the Sun” expresses his own brotherhood with all of God’s creation.

Seeds of Simplicity

Daisies “tell it like it is.” There is no pretense about them. They are a common plant, often overlooked in favor of more “showy” flowers. They can be found in peaceful meadows, along busy highways and even growing among tall weeds in vacant lots. But to truly appreciate a daisy, you must understand its simplicity. Each petal resembles a simple teardrop, opening at sunrise and closing at sunset. They do not need much to flourish - just soil, water, and sunlight. When a blossom is done, it wilts and drops, allowing energy to be channeled to the new blossoms. We too, can learn from the wisdom of the simple daisy. Trimming away the dead blossoms of our crowded lives can only serve to allow us more energy to concentrate on that which really matters. Consider the Gospel’s message this week: simplify and travel light!

The Garden Saints

St. Phocas (July 3), the patron saint of ornamental gardening, was a gardener and martyr who lived in Sinope, Turkey, on the coast of the Black Sea during the time of the Emperor Diocletian who ruled the eastern part of the Roman Empire. Phocas raised crops and aided Christians who were undergoing persecution. It is said that he was once visited by soldiers who were sent to execute him. Not knowing it was he whom they encountered, they accepted his hospitality. Phocas offered to help them find whom they were searching for in the morning. During the night, Phocas dug a grave knowing it would become his own very soon. When the soldiers awoke, Phocas revealed his true identity and accepted his fate. During his life, Phocas tilled the earth generously, feeding those less fortunate than he.

Don’t Sweat the Weeds

“A weed is no more than a flower in disguise, which is seen through at once, if love give a man eyes.”

- James Russell Lowell

In May a strange looking plant appeared in a section of my garden. I watched it closely with anticipation, hoping it was some exotic flower deposited by a bird or the wind. Last week it finally bloomed. It resembled a cone flower in size, and possessed a quality not unlike a daisy. Curious about the name, I looked it up in every garden dictionary but I was unable to put a name to it. Two days after it bloomed, I figured it out when the beautiful flower I had admired turned into a large, fluffy puff ball. My exotic flower was a weed! I was ready to give it a good yank when I realized that this weed brought joy and excitement to an otherwise predictable blooming spot in my garden. And so, that is why I left it to grow there, among my other flowers, reminding me to appreciate even the occasional weed thrown into life’s garden.

The Garden Saints

St. Fiacre (7th Cent. - Aug. 31/Sept. 1) is recognized as the patron saint of gardeners, florists, and cab drivers. Often mistaken for St. Francis of Assisi, he is pictured with a shovel, and stands as a sentinel over the flowers and crops that he guards. Raised in a monastery, he became a skillful user of medicinal herbs and as his talents became known, people flocked to him for healing. After his death in 670 A.D., visitors to the monastery claimed it had healing powers. A shrine in Breuil, France was erected in his honor, making it a destination spot for pilgrims.

Seeds of Wisdom

It has been said that anything worth learning can be gleaned from a garden. Flowers are an ancient species, many of which date back millions of years. They have figured it out: how to survive, how to thrive, and how to use best what nature’s elements dish out. Consider the wisdom of the rose: it knows when to wake, when to stretch out its branches and take on new growth, when to bloom and when to go dormant. In winter it rests, so that in late spring it can burst with an abundance of blooms, sharing its aromatic fragrance with the world. Then, dropping its spent blossoms, it takes a siesta to gather energy for the next show. We too, can take a lesson from the rose. Summer is siesta time; to relax, to repose, to recreate. This week I will join my family for a timeout at the Jersey Shore. Like the rose, I plan on going dormant in order to gather energy for the next blooming season. “Thank you!” to fellow musicians Judene Indovina and Tom Reinsel for filling in for me while I’m away. Thanks for allowing me time to stop and smell the roses!

The Garden Saints

St. Elizabeth of Hungary (13th century), the patron saint of roses and rosarians and feast day on November 17, lived only for a short time, but is known as one of the most pious women to ever exist. The daughter of King Andrew of Hungary, she was born a princess, yet spent her life in humble service of the Lord, performing works of charity and self-sacrifice. Because of this, Elizabeth is also known as the patron saint of nurses. Though she held a compassion for the poor, because she was of royal heritage her dedication was opposed by some in the royal court. Once, when taking food to the poor and sick the king stopped her to see what she was carrying. Immediately, the food under her mantle miraculously changed to roses. She continued the role of humble servant, caring for the poor during her short life of just 25 years.

Summer’s Symbols

For the last 6 months we have been enjoying the increase in daylight, leading up to the solstice of summer on Wednesday of last week. Sunlight fills our sky and lifts our spirits, and during nighttime hours, we see tiny flickers of light as fireflies dart about. It reminds me of the time I took a drive late at night and, beginning to tire, pulled my car into a wooded area to rest. When I awoke I was surrounded by thousands of glittering yellowish lights of fireflies on the trees and bushes. The entire area was aglow, engulfed in their light, flickering in and out, as if attached to some big electric switch someplace in the woods. It was an experience that I will not soon forget.

Summer’s symbols are all around us: the welcome splash of cool rain on our face, the morning mist, the dew on the grass in the hours of dawn, the colors of the rainbow after a storm, twilight’s glow of the setting sun. This week’s hymn, “Healing River of the Spirit” (Ruth Duck 1996) calls to mind a symbol of our Baptism: water. The sacred springs of new life wind their way through the quagmire of our sin and darkness, purifying and cleansing as they flow.

This weekend, we celebrate the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, one who used the great symbols of our Baptism to cleanse and purify. His message of repentance set the tone and paved the way for the birth of the Christ, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit. Fire and water: both symbols of the Spirit, which cancel each other out in the earthly realm, but work as a team in the spiritual one to rid us of the stain of iniquity and sin. John the Baptist was the forerunner of the Spirit and the Light, readying the way for the One who would purify humanity, who would bring God’s light into a world darkened by evil.

As we begin this summer season, let us use its gifts of water and light to quench our thirsty spirits and revive our weary souls.

Bees on the Keys and Shaky Knees

It’s June. Flowers are blooming. The sky seems bluer. Temperatures are kinder. Insects are back in droves... flying, creeping, crawling, slithering. Being a gardener, I’m pretty much used to encountering an occasional worm or beetle while digging. I keep my distance and they keep theirs. We respect each other’s space. It’s only when these insects invade my work space that I become slightly uncomfortable.

Last Sunday one of those beloved creatures affectionately known as a “yellow jacket” entered that very work space. I watched as he buzzed around church during the homily, visiting each chandelier and... finally spotting the choir loft, turned, midflight, making a “bee line” for the organ pipes. By the time I began the offertory hymn, Mr. Hornet had buzzed over to the organ console. It wasn’t long before he decided to land... on the organ keys. As my fingers moved up the keys, he crawled up the keys. I moved my hands to the lower keyboard. He followed. I motioned to the people in the loft to please grab the can of “Raid Hornet and Wasp Spray” that I keep under the pews. Of course, they were following the song in the hymnal and didn’t notice what was happening. Finally, to my relief, the pesky little bee flew off to places unknown, leaving me to play in peace.

Hopefully my “dance on the keys” wasn’t too noticeable to the singing faithful in the pews. My encounter made me think of how, at times unexpected events can change our best laid plans, knock us out of our routine, and a seemingly small challenge can turn into a larger issue in no time at all. It’s how we deal with those unexpected moments that determine their outcome. Should we dance around the problem, confront it head on, or should we simply smile, laugh, and move on?

Before I Die…

Why write about dying on the Feast of Corpus Christi? Each morning I drive by a series of large blackboards that were recently hung on a fence bordering a middle school in my neighborhood. On the top of the blackboards are these words, written in very large print: “Before I die I want to…” There is chalk below the boards, inviting passerby's to fill in the blank. Each day the written responses from the public change. Here are a few…

Before I die I want to…

• Zip line down the Grand Canyon
• Lose 20 pounds.
• Find the meaning of life

You get the idea. I thought it might be interesting to find out what some other famous folks wanted to do before they died. I found that Timothy McVeigh (Oklahoma City bomber) wanted to eat two pints of Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. Joan of Arc wanted to receive the Eucharist. Jesus Christ wanted to celebrate a last meal with his Apostles, offering himself - his sacred Body and Blood as a sacrifice. Today, as we receive Christ’s Body and Blood in the Celebration of the Mass, let us consider his great sacrifice - The Bread of Life hidden beneath the veil, this “Sangue del Signore” (Blood of the Lord) - and how privileged we are as Catholics to receive it. Let us always think about our dying wish - and what our last meal might be... “Before I die I want to…” It’s your turn to fill in the blank.

Lord, You Give the Great Commission

Lord, you give the great commission:
“Heal the sick and preach the word.”
Lest the Church neglect its mission,
And the Gospel go unheard.
Help us witness to your purpose
With renewed integrity,
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us,
For the work of ministry.

Lord, you bless with words assuring:
“I am with you to the end.”
Faith and hope and love restoring,
May we serve as you intend,
And amid the cares that claim us,
Hold in mind eternity;
With the Spirit’s gifts empower us
For the work of ministry!

Text: Jeffrey Rowthorn (b. 1934)

Veni Sancte Spiritus!

Veni, veni, Sancte Spiritus,
Veni, veni, Sancte Spiritus!
Come, Holy Spirit,
Come, Spirit divine!

Holy Spirit, come with might,
Enkindle within us the spark of your light.
Dispel the darkness,
Illumine the night,
Come, Spirit, come…

Spirit of God upon us shine,
Beacon of light, God’s own design.
Ignite our hearts with flame divine.
Come, Spirit, come…
Come, Spirit come!

Ready, Set, Go!

On Thursday we celebrated the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord which launched the ministry of the apostles. Jesus gave the apostles a foreshadowing of the gifts of the Holy Spirit yet to come. He commissioned them to spread his gospel throughout Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria... to the ends of the earth. He was then taken from them, lifted up, and was gone from their sight.

In his wake, Jesus left much to be done. His plea for evangelization in Biblical times, of spreading the Good News would not be accomplished in one day, by one person, in one part of the world. And fast-forward 2,000 years... what part can we play in this seemingly enormous task of evangelization? The cliché, “Rome wasn’t built in a day!” comes to mind.

There are all sorts of ways to build up the Body of Christ on earth. We can do our small part, in our small space and time, by means of sharing the Church’s mission with those who may not be familiar, by caring for the poor in Jesus’ name, by loving and giving back, by sacrificing. Love is manifested in the unselfish sacrifice of Jesus, as he became our Living Bread.

Why are you standing there looking up at the sky? It’s time to get to work! The mission is set before us. It is up to us to complete the work He began here on earth!

O Mary, Our Mother

It can certainly be said that motherhood is a selfless vocation. From the moment a child is born, a woman nurtures it, giving of herself, caring for and loving that child to maturity and beyond. Holding her child in her arms is like holding a dandelion that has gone to seed. With each moment, each gust of wind, a little more blows away until she is standing there with just the stem in her hand. She knows that she must let go and allow those seeds to land where they may, to take root and grow. When her children are grown, and living on their own, a mother can no longer cradle them as she once did, but can only watch from afar, try not to judge, and give them tools for adulthood in her own kind way.

Imagine the Blessed Virgin Mary, a young mother herself, caring for the Child Jesus through adulthood, knowing the path He would eventually take, and where it would lead. Mary knew what it was to let go. She knew the pains and the joys of motherhood. She gave herself up as a sacrifice for those pains and joys.

Our Blessed Mother — our spiritual mother loves us beyond compare. There is nothing she wants more than for us to live good lives, worthy of our place in heaven. As we place flowers at her feet during this month of May, let us always remember to pray to her, asking for guidance as we continue to mature and grow in this garden of life!

Mary, “Queen of the May”

“O Mary, we crown Thee with blossoms today, Queen of the angels, Queen of the May.”

On Sunday during the 12:00 Noon Mass, our First Communion students will crown a statue of Mary with flowers in an age-old tradition that Catholics have celebrated since the 16th century. In May of 1784, at the Church of Camillians in Ferrara, Italy, a statue of Mary was crowned publicly for the first time, beginning the tradition of this popular celebration of the “May Crowning.” The tradition quickly spread to central Europe, where faithful pilgrims processed with a statue or icon of Mary into the church, while singing Marian songs and praying Hail Marys. Today, though not as often since Vatican II, that tradition still exists in many Catholic churches throughout the world.

But why is the month of May chosen in correlation with the Blessed Virgin Mary? No one really knows the reason, though it has been suggested that because blossoms emerge in the month of May, it is the fitting time to adorn our lives with beauty, and what greater beauty than Christ’s mother, the Blessed Virgin?

May is here. Let us sing our Marian songs, pray the rosary daily for the salvation of souls, and consecrate our lives to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Queen of the May!

Pray for the Shepherds

“I know my sheep, and mine know me.” - John 10:14

Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. A shepherd always walks ahead of his flock, leading and guiding with a gentle hand. His rod and staff comforts. Those who follow the shepherd are protected from harm. His sheep know his voice and trust him. We should always pray for those who faithfully shepherd our Church: Pope Benedict XVI, the bishops of our diocese: Bishop David Zubik and Bishop William Waltersheid. Saint Joseph Parish has been blessed to have had faith-filled spiritual leaders both in its past and present. Let us always remember to pray for those pastors who have shepherded this parish with spiritual leadership:

† Fr. Francis Ward (1891-1894)

† Fr. Joseph Toner (1894-1897)

† Fr. Michael Hughes (1897-1911)

† Fr. McCabe (1911-1923)

† Fr. Patrick J. Healy (1923-1952)

† Fr. Robert M. Murphy (1952-1961)

† Fr. John A. Larkin (1961-1980)

† Fr. Francis L. Pucci (1980-1981)

† Fr. Lawrence V. Holpp (1981-2000)

† Fr. Malcolm McDonald (2000-2003)

† Fr. Michael A. Caridi (2003-2008)

† Fr. Richard S. Jones (2008-Present)

Getting Rid of the Crabgrass

It’s that time of year again. Time to get outside, to take a walk through the garden and the lawn. It’s time to weed and seed. But whether you’re a gardener, or just a person who likes a well-manicured lawn, one thing is true: you will encounter crabgrass.

Crabgrass (Digitaria), grows by spreading its low-growing stems over the soil, sending out spikelets or digits (like fingers), its florets producing seeds which fall to the ground, germinate, and produce more weeds. If gone unnoticed, it will spread and continue to germinate throughout the growing season, eventually choking out healthy plants. Crabgrass can often be seen growing even among the most beautiful flowers in our garden.

Like crabgrass, sin deposits its seeds and spreads, sometimes just beneath the surface. We may ignore its tentacle-like hold on our lives until it becomes uncontrolled behavior which threatens to choke out our healthy self. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is an effective way to rid the "garden of our soul" of its weeds of sin. It allows light to enter and seeds of goodness to germinate, producing only beautiful flowers and healthy "soul-gardens."

As crabgrass is a symptom of an uncared for lawn, so sin is a symptom of a neglected "soul-garden." Spring is the season of growth and rebirth. Light is abundant and rain moistens the earth. What better time to eradicate the "crabgrass" in our own souls! During these seven weeks of Easter, may we nourish our "soul-gardens" with waters of rebirth and lifegiving prayer and penance. Happy gardening!

Divine Mercy Sunday

Saint M. Faustina Kowalska, who served the Congregation of Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in Poland, is well-known for her diaries in which she describes the vision of Divine Mercy. Her diary dated Feb. 22, 1931 reads:

"In the evening, when I was in my cell, I became aware of the Lord Jesus clothed in a white garment. One hand was raised in blessing, the other was touching the garment at the breast. From the opening of the garment at the breast there came forth two large rays, one red and the other pale. In silence I gazed intently at the Lord; my soul was overwhelmed with fear, but also with great joy. After a while Jesus said to me, ‘Paint an image according to the pattern you see, with the inscription: Jesus, I trust in You.’ The pale ray stands for Water which makes souls righteous; the red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls. These two rays issued forth from the depths of My most tender Mercy at that time when My agonizing Heart was opened by a lance on the Cross... Fortunate is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him."

At the hour of 3:00 PM each day, we are asked to stop and implore God’s Divine Mercy for sinners as well as ourselves. “In this hour I will refuse nothing to the soul that makes a request of Me in virtue of My Passion” (Diary 1320).

The Resurrection

As seen through the eyes of a mother...

Today was the happiest day of my life. My joy cannot be contained. It is joy that none other could possibly feel - selfless, weightless, soaring joy. Joy that is entwined with delight and contentment. I want to sing with the birds and dance with the wind, shout to everyone I meet and smile at passer-bys. I want to thank God with every word I speak and every thought I think. It is unfathomable that just three days ago sadness was over me like a shadow, looming, a heavy weight that my soul could not bear. Oh, the contrast! For just as that sorrow overtook my heart, wrapping its cold shroud around my spirit, this joy envelops me and saturates me with a fervor that is unrivaled.

And so, now, being left behind in this earthly self, I anticipate the day when, after having served Him on earth, I can once again see my Savior face to face. I pray that the hand of God will rest upon my love and allow this feeling of joy to accompany me to eternity, where I will once again see the face that smiled at me through a child’s love and watched me through a child’s eyes. I await that day like the blossom awaits the fruit that ripens on the bough. And in my heart I will wait... and I will repeat those words, spoken with so much joy and motherly pride: “He is risen! He is risen, indeed!”

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 7)

The gothic structure sits high atop a hill within the limits of the city proper. Close by is a park, busy with the sound of children playing. This church is a jewel, yet undiscovered by many. It was established in 1900 following a petition put forward by many area residents looking for a closer church in which to worship and pray. The first Mass was celebrated in 1902, but before long, the "old church" was razed to make room for a new building, large enough to hold the growing congregation of the west end of the city. In 1925, worshiping Catholics entered the "new church" to find a larger and more accommodating worship space. The cornerstone for the school was laid and the first class held in 1955. Students were taught by the Sisters of Charity at Seton Hill. But because of declining enrollment it closed in 1973, sending students to an area regional school where they were taught by Divine Providence Sisters. On June 2, 2009, the last graduating class of just 13 students left the building which was slated to close its doors permanently that year. If you think you know the name of the church, contact Ginny in the rectory at (412) 264-6162 or vambrose@verizon.net.

Last week’s church was St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish (St. Luke Church), guessed correctly by Laura Marshall. The Seven-Church Pilgrimage will take place April 5 following the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 6:30 PM.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 6)

The church whose doors are pictured here was founded in 1867. After it was determined that there was significant Catholic growth in this area west of Pittsburgh, approval was given to establish a new parish. Eventually, the need for a larger worship space became first and forefront, and the congregation began the process of planning construction on a new building. But the decision did not come without its problems. Worshipers were conflicted about where the new church would be built and with an economic depression looming, the cost of the construction also became an issue. But before long, the cornerstone was laid in 1881 and the completed building was dedicated in June of 1883. Numerous renovations have since been made on the structure, the most recent rehab taking place because of flooding due to a hurricane. Although the school remains closed, the newly restored church is a beacon to this community and prayer–filled place of worship.

If you recognize these holy doors, submit your guess to Ginny Ambrose at the rectory at (412) 264-6162, or vambrose@verizon.net. Last week’s holy doors, belonging to St, Margaret in Greentree, were correctly guessed by Joe Orient. Make your reservations now for the Seven-Church Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday -- $5 per person. See the bulletin or web site for more information.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 5)

The next church in our Seven-Church
Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday

The modern red brick structure that houses these holy doors began as a humble frame building in 1930 that was converted into a church. In 1931, Bishop Hugh Boyle approved a mission parish to be built in the surrounding area and gave two brothers the privilege of naming the parish. Those brothers, considering this quite an important responsibility, chose a saint’s name for whom their own mother was named, and who played an important part in British and Scottish history. In November of 1952 a new school and church were dedicated and thegymnasium named for the first pastor of the parish, Fr. McDonough. The school remains open and educates close to 300 students each day. If you think you know the name of the church, please send your guesses to Ginny Ambrose at vambrose@verizon.net or (412) 264-6162 Ext. 24.

Ruth Platek correctly guessed the doors belonging to Ascension Parish in Ingram in the March 4 bulletin. And last week’s beautifully etched holy doors belong to SS Simon and Jude Parish in Scott Twp. Donna Marano-Ricci once again correctly guessed! The Seven-Church Pilgrimage takes place immediately following Mass on Holy Thursday, April 5.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 4)

The doors pictured above belong to the church which is the next stop on our Seven-Church Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday, April 5 following the 6:30 PM Mass. This church was erected and dedicated by Bishop Dearden in response to the growing population of Catholics in this area. Glass doors were installed in 2002. Each door contains an etched picture with a symbolic meaning. On the front doors are pictured two Apostles. At each entrance to the church are more doors such as these, depicting other aspects of the Faith. The church can now accommodate up to 1,000 people, as it was expanded from its original capacity of only 300. A new “tracker” organ was recently added. Tracker action is a term used in reference to pipe organs, indicating a mechanical linkage between keys or pedals pressed by the organist and the valve that allows air to flow into the pipes of the corresponding note.

Reservations are now being taken for this pilgrimage of faith. A donation of $5 is asked. You may drop an envelope marked “7 Church Pilgrimage” in the collection basket or mail to the rectory.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 3)

Our third church on the pilgrimage

When you enter the church pictured below you are immediately struck by the simple beauty of the sanctuary. Wooden Stations of the Cross surround the large worship space, sharing the limelight with rectangular stained glass windows, which were designed in modern style. Traditional statues summon the visitor to quiet prayer and reverence.

This is the third stop on our Seven-Church Pilgrimage taking place on Holy Thursday following the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Can you guess the church? Call in your answer to Ginny Ambrose at the rectory (412-264-6162 Ext. 24) or e-mail her.

The church pictured in last week’s article was Saint Philip Church in Crafton. Many called in to name the correct church. I guess there was no mistaking those holy doors!

In the front vestibule of Saint Joseph is a poster depicting the churches that we will be visiting. It’s time to call the rectory to reserve your place on the bus. Cost is $5 per person. Join us in prayer and song on this journey of faith.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 2)

Our second stop on the pilgrimage

The holy doors pictured here adorn the side entrance to this church building belonging to a parish established in 1839. The church is the second destination on our Seven-Church Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday.

This gothic structure is built of stone in cruciform design and seats 800 people. The parish cemetery is reported to have five Civil War Veterans resting there. When this parish was first established, worshippers attended Mass in an old wooden church located on local farm land. As the area’s Catholic population increased, the need for a bigger church arose and the current structure was erected in 1906 and dedicated by Bishop Regis Canevin.

Can you guess the church? Call in or e-mail your answers to Ginny at 412-264-6162, Ext. 24 or vambrose@verizon.net.

The church pictured in last week’s article was Saint Martin Church (Guardian Angels Parish) in the West End. The first person to guess the identity of the church was our parishioner, Donna Marano-Ricci.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 1)

On Holy Thursday, April 5, we will trace the footsteps of Jesus as we embark on the Seven Church Pilgrimage. Join us for a prayer-filled evening as we visit 7 churches in our area. Two Stations of the Cross will be prayed in each church along with scripture and song. A booklet will be given to each participant with information about the churches we’ll be visiting. The Seven Church Pilgrimage is a prayerful and spiritual way to begin the Easter Triduum. The “Holy Doors” pictured here adorn the front of the first church on the Pilgrimage. This parish was founded in 1869 by German immigrants who had settled in the area. On August 15, 1869 the cornerstone was laid, and on May 1, 1870 the new church was dedicated. Nearly 100 years later, in 1960, the building caught fire and was eventually torn down. Plans for a new church began, and in 1971 ground was broken to build a new structure. Now, 41 years later, the church exists as part of a merged group of 3 churches to form a parish that serves a large area west of the city. Because of it’s “high” location, its bells can be heard for miles on Sunday mornings as it stands as a witness to the faith. Can you guess the name of the church? E-mail your answers to vambrose@verizon.net.

Jesus Heals Our Sin-Sick Soul

The Gospels from Mark have been speaking to us about Jesus’ healing of mind, body, and spirit for the last two weeks. In this week’s Gospel (Mark 1: 40-45), we hear of the story of the leper, whom Jesus “cleanses,” releasing him from his malady. Next weekend, we will hear of the story of the paralytic, who picks up his mat and walks away, healed and made whole.

These readings are preparing us for the upcoming season of Lent which is just two weeks away. The accounts are made known to us so that we may understand the healing powers of Jesus as we pray for our own needs. In the song, “There is a Balm in Gilead,” the lyrics cry out for cleansing and healing for a sin-sick soul. The lament has a simple message of encouragement for those wounded by sin and sadness. And who among us doesn’t need encouragement?

Have you ever taken a look through the pages of the “Book of Prayer Intentions” in the vestibule of our church? We write down our needs, our prayers, and our own laments in the book, trusting them to God’s mercy and will. When the book is full, the pages are brought to prayer groups and prayed over. Once a month we offer those intentions up to God’s will in our General Intercessions at Mass. They are never forgotten or disregarded. Some are distributed to those making pilgrimages to shrines.

Please continue to pray for the intentions listed there.

As the song says, “You can tell the love of Jesus, and say he died for all!” As we get closer to the season of Lent, let us unite our own suffering with that of Jesus, and pray for healing from our own wounds of sin which prevent us from experiencing true spiritual freedom.

Do Not Be Afraid, I Am With You!

In our Gospel reading today, Jesus demonstrates his unique power over sin and death in his healing of Simon’s mother-in-law. He then goes on to preach, heal and drive out demons, challenging all who listen, to prepare themselves for the coming reign of God. Many see His good works and in turn, go out, ministering to others in Jesus’ name.

We, too, can use this message that Jesus conveys — heal the sick, drive out demons — bring glad tidings to the poor. In our Offertory Hymn this week, “You Are Mine” by David Haas, we sing the comforting words, “Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name. Come and follow me, I will bring you home; I love you and you are mine.”

Many choose this hymn to be played at funerals. The words of the refrain wrap us in the comfort of God’s divine love for us, and His Son, the Christ. Consider those words when you think of the Father in heaven comforting his Son as he hung on the cross at Calvary!

In allowing ourselves to be healed and made free of sin, we gain strength to go out and heal others in his name; maybe not in the literal sense, but as compassionate comforters — to speak kind words of faith, to lend a smile to lift someone’s spirit, to love the unloved. May we all work to bring healing to others and to all the world!

Music and the Catholic Wedding Ritual

This weekend we welcome engaged couples from Pittsburgh and surrounding areas who have attended our Pre-Cana Day of Reflection on Saturday. We wish them well in their future marriages and thank those eight presenting couples who spoke so well about their own marriage journeys. Love is in the air at Saint Joseph Parish!

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner and Pre-Cana couples visiting, I thought this might be a good time to discuss the basics of music for the Wedding Ritual and also to remind couples planning to get married at Saint Joseph Parish to contact me at the rectory to plan the music for your wedding.

The Diocese of Pittsburgh in accordance with Canon Law has pertinent documentation regarding music and the wedding ritual:

Musical Elements of the Wedding Liturgy

A. Principles of Music Planning

1. The celebration of a wedding in the Catholic Church is a “liturgical” event, an action of the whole Church in whose presence couples freely commit themselves in the covenant of marriage. (This distinguishes the marriage rite from the receptions and other private family or social functions that also frequently mark the beginning of married life.)

You can download the entire document or also pick up a copy through the Music Office at the Rectory.

“At Your Side, I Will Seek Other Shores”

“Pescador De Hombres” or “Lord, You Have Come” is a very moving song expressing a response to a calling from Christ to “follow him.” The author, Casáreo Gabaráin, manages to combine imagery, symbolism, and metaphor: (“...at your side, I will seek other shores), with a simple but beautiful melody that inspires us and moves us to consider our own calling in our lives. I especially like the second verse which tells of the lack of possessions, “no power, no wealth,” which reminds us that Christ has no need for these things - He only wants us to follow His teachings in serving each other in love.

This January, please consider lending a hand to help the many different programs Saint Joseph Parish has to offer. There have been requests in recent bulletins about joining the many ministries and committees. Much help is needed to form an “Event Committee.” If you have any experience at all planning parties, please consider calling the rectory to sign up for this committee. If you enjoy taking pictures, a “photographer in the field” is desperately needed to take pictures of the different parish events. (Note to college students: this would look good on a résumé!

However you get involved, just remember that Christ wants you to cast your nets! Who knows? Your “catch” might be a blessing to your life!

Here I Am!

“Here I am Lord, here I am, I come to do your will.”

These are lyrics from Rory Cooney’s “Psalm 40” which we will sing this weekend. Many of us have felt a “calling” in our life to aspire to, accomplish or achieve a certain goal. Some pursue this calling feverishly while others merely hope an opportunity will somehow present itself. As Christians we must ask the questions, “Is this the Lord’s will? Is this what God wants me to do?” Sometimes it can be hard to decipher what is God’s will and what is our own desire. We may even ask God for a sign to allow us to feel safe to proceed with a new career, a new place to live, or even a marriage. But however sure or unsure we are of the future, of this we can be sure: God is calling us to a life of Christian holiness!

How best we serve God is really up to us. However simply or grand, God wants our very waking and sleeping to be in praise of Him. We hear His call in our working and resting, our praying and singing, our loving and caring. God is not impressed with our grandiose accomplishments, but is pleased with our simple love for each other. God wants our hearts. If our desire is to love with generosity and compassion, then we can see His will for us made plain. His love is made manifest in us when we heed the call to serve in His name, and we can then answer with a resounding, “Here I am!”

Thank you for your generous outpouring of concern during my recent illness. I am feeling much better and I’m anxious to get back to making music with you!

What Shall I Bring Him?

The gifts of the Magi, gold, frankincense and myrrh, are to most of us unfamiliar, ancient and possibly a mystery. Merriam-Webster’s definition of gold is “a yellow malleable ductile element.” Frankincense is “a fragrant gum resin from trees in regions of Somalia and Arabia, used in religious rites.” Myrrh is “an aromatic yellowish-brown gum resin used in perfumes.”

No one I know received any of these exotic gifts this Christmas, not even gold. Gift-giving has certainly changed since Jesus’ birth but the intention behind the giving has surely remained the same. Our gifts come wrapped in ribbons of kindness, generosity and love. We give, hoping the gift will bring a moment of happiness to the receiver. Most of us give with generosity and without expecting something in return.

This Epiphany Sunday we will sing about “paying homage.” We’ll watch as our very own “Magi” approach the altar at the 10:00 AM Mass bearing gifts. We’ll bless our homes with chalk so that all who enter them are also blessed. Maybe our “gifts of homage” this 2012 should be plain and simple gifts of “self.” Consider the gift of a smile to someone you pass in the aisle at Giant Eagle, or allowing a car to merge into your lane as you drive on the Parkway West. Perhaps think about spending a moment listening to someone repeat a story you may have heard many times before, or telling someone that you really do appreciate them. These are precious gifts that do not bear a price tag, are not found in any store, but would never be returned. These are gifts that make the Christ Child smile.