Fidelity to the Word
Our Lord and His Holy Apostles at the Last Supper


A blog dedicated to Christ Jesus our Lord and His True Presence in the Holy Mystery of the Eucharist


The Lord Jesus, the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and giving thanks, broke, and said: Take ye and eat, this is My Body which shall be delivered for you; this do for the commemoration of Me. In like manner also the chalice.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Feast of the Sacred Heart


The Sacred Heart and the Immaculate Heart
To our Lady of Perpetual Help:

MEMORARE, o Domina Nostra a Sacro Corde, quam ineffabilem tibi potentiam Filius tuus divinus contulerit in suum ipsius Cor adorabile. Pleni nos fiduciae in meritis tuis, accedimus implorantes tuum praesidium. O Cordis Iesu Thesauraria caelestis, illius Cordis, fontis inexhausti gratiarum omnium, quod potes ipsa pro tua voluntate recludere, ut defluant inde in homines divitiae amoris et misericordiae, luminis et salutis, quae in ipso continentur; concede nobis, obsecramus, beneficia quae petimus ... Nulla nobis, nulla a te erit repulsa, et, quoniam Mater Tu nostra es, o Domina Nostra a Sacro Corde, preces nostras benigne habe et benigne exaudi. Amen.

REMEMBER, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, what ineffable power thy divine Son hath given thee over His own adorable Heart. Filled with confidence in thy merits, we come before thee and implore thy protection. O heavenly Treasurer of the Heart of Jesus, that Heart which is the inexhaustible source of all graces, which thou mayest open to us at thy good pleasure, in order that from it may flow forth upon mankind the riches of love and mercy, light and salvation, that are contained therein; grant unto us, we beseech thee, the favors which we seek ... We can never, never be refused by thee, and since thou art Mother, O our Lady of the Sacred Heart, graciously receive our prayers and grant our request. Amen.

From the Raccolta #439. (S. P. Ap., April 5, 1949).

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112 Comments:

Blogger Michael said...

The 27th of June is usually the feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, but today the Sacred Heart takes precedence.

6/27/2014 12:13:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

For Rebecca:

Dearly beloved friend,

Aided by the prayers of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the prayers of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, and the prayers of our guardian angels, may you find refuge and healing in the Sacred Heart of our Saviour, Whose love for you endures forever.

Holy saints, pray for her.

6/27/2014 12:17:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

You are still much on my mind, best and most greatly missed of friends. Katie gave me your July Magnificat and I switched the rest of your subscription to my address. I started reading it yesterday. Almost the first thing I read, before I got to the first day's readings, was "The Generous Strawberry", by Fr. James M. Sullivan, O.P.  That is you, sweet friend, as I was just recalling in a comment in the blog post just before this one, a few days ago.

Fr. Sullivan says that the many seeds of the strawberry made it a symbol of the fruitfulness of good works. Humble friend, I pray that many graces from God have descended upon you and blessed you.

I also watched another film today from my movies-to-watch-with-Rebecca list: Au revoir les enfants, a film you would have greatly enjoyed, about French boarding students during World War II.

7/02/2014 09:06:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

♥ Many wild strawberries growing in our yard this summer, more than I have ever seen in the 40 years we have been living here.

Last night and this afternoon I watched The Burmese Harp, yet another film you would have enjoyed. Work has been slow, giving me a vacation before my vacation. I leave for Northport tomorrow morning, to a cabin you and I stayed in.

May God bless you, dear friend, with peace, contentment and a cheerful heart. ♥

7/06/2014 03:09:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

You died three months ago today, sweetie. I still love you, I still miss you, I still think of you every day. God bless you forever, and I pray that we may meet again and rejoice. ox/M

8/02/2014 06:55:00 PM  
Anonymous Michael said...

Praying for you, sweet friend, on this Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

8/15/2014 08:59:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

I miss you, dear friend. God bless you.

8/17/2014 07:40:00 PM  
Anonymous Michael said...

You were received into the Church 11 years ago today, dearest friend. A blessed Sunday it was for you and me. I pray that every day is now a blessed and joyful one for you, Rebecca, and don't forget to pray for those you have left behind. ox/M

8/24/2014 07:11:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Four months today, dearest friend. The blink of an eye. How quickly our days fly past! I pray that you have found a more lasting home and that there soon we will be reunited and renew our friendship. Through Christ it is possible! May He bless you always.

9/02/2014 05:23:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Feeling your absence keenly today, sweet friend. God bless you.

9/06/2014 12:34:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Missed you at Mass, today, sweetie. A Romanian Catholic Liturgy. I wanted you there with me, where you had never been. There is so much in this world we did not find time to share! Too soon! I lost you too soon! Not as we will, but as God wills, so it must be, and I hope that for you that fact is now a source of consolation, not sorrow. I love you; may God grant you peace.

9/07/2014 08:16:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

I'm thankful to have had you for a friend. May God remember your every kindness.

9/09/2014 07:57:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

I think this will be our last really summery summer day -- rainy tomorrow, then cooler weather moves in. I wish you were here with me to witness the change of seasons.

Since you are not, I pray that you are someplace better, O ever-hopeful friend, and that you have found your hopes fulfilled beyond your imagining.

9/09/2014 06:22:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

I miss you + I love you + God bless you.

9/10/2014 12:26:00 PM  
Anonymous Michael said...

God bless you, Rebecca. I just listened to your last few voice mail messages (again) so that they won't be automatically deleted by t-mobile. Pretty sad, isn't it? But I'm not quite ready to give up the last traces of your presence in my life. I loved you, I love you, I miss you. Rest in peace.

9/13/2014 03:04:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Happy Sunday, sweet friend. May the cross of Christ lead you beyond all sorrows to everlasting joy.

9/14/2014 12:10:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

May our Lady, who also knew sorrow, pray for you, dearest friend, and with her may you enjoy everlasting gladness. Through her son, our Savior, Who reigns with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Ghost, now, and always, and to the age of ages. Amen. I love you.

9/15/2014 05:42:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

I have much to speak about with you, dear friend. I miss your insights. I valued them more than you thought. May God bless you and keep you. Saint Robert Bellarmine, pray for her. Saint Francis, pray for her.

9/17/2014 11:16:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Good morning, my friend. May all your days be blessed. Be happy.

con mucho cariño,

M

9/18/2014 07:31:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Dearest sister in Christ,

May God give us the grace to take up our crosses with peaceful hearts and follow Him, and may the Father, Son and Holy Ghost bless you eternally.

Saint Januarius, pray for us.

9/19/2014 11:27:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

A blessed Sunday to you, my friend of happy memory. I love you!

9/21/2014 12:05:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Thinking of you with great fondness, sweetie. Praise God, for bringing you into my life. ♥

9/22/2014 11:53:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Pope St. Linus, pray for her.
St. Thecla, pray for her.
God bless you, my friend.

9/23/2014 01:01:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

An end for some recent difficulties is finally in sight. I wish you were here to celebrate with me. May God grant you happiness wherever you are. Pax et bonum, mi amica.

9/23/2014 05:48:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Friends forever, dearest friend. I pray our friendship will endure even past the end of this world. God bless you.

9/24/2014 10:58:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May God bless you with peace and understanding, sweet friend.

9/25/2014 07:43:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May God accept you and perfect you, dear beautiful soul, so that, joyful and unashamed, you may live forever as a saint among the saints of heaven.

9/26/2014 03:09:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Greetings to you, Saint (I hope) Rebecca, from the one of the decidedly not-yet-sainted, on a day of petty bickering in my family. May unshakeable peace dwell in your heart and the counsel of the Holy Ghost guide your every action.

9/27/2014 01:21:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Happy Sunday to you, dear friend. I'm remembering you with affection. I wish you were here to enjoy this beautiful weather with me. I pray you enjoy (or will enjoy) far greater beauty. Pax et bonum, amica mea.

9/28/2014 10:27:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Saint Michael, pray for her. Good night!

9/30/2014 12:12:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

And good morning, dear friend. May Saint Jerome pray for you, that you may grow in the knowledge and love of God, and live in His light. Through Christ our Lord, Who unites all the blessed in the unity of the Holy Ghost and the glory of God the Father, Amen.

9/30/2014 08:07:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

And good morning again, my friend, with prayers that you will know the goodness of God and rejoice.

10/01/2014 10:04:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Good morning, Rebecca. May this day and all your days be blessed, and your nights be peaceful. May you discover the breadth and length and height and depth of God's love for you, and, with all the holy, return love for love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

10/02/2014 06:59:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

My greatly missed friend: may God give you clear eyes, a pure heart and unwavering good will so that you may see, love and do what is right and abide always in His grace. Pray for those you have left behind!

10/03/2014 09:00:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

My gentle friend, may the Spirit of the Lord dwell in your heart, blessing you with steadfast devotion and ever-renewed charity. Through Christ our Lord.

Saint Francis, pray for her.

10/04/2014 10:50:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

As a father has compassion on his children,
so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
The life of mortals is like grass,
they flourish like a flower of the field;
the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
But from everlasting to everlasting
the Lord’s love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children’s children—
with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.

10/05/2014 09:00:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

A sleepy Monday morning to you, dear friend. I pray that the Lord our God has sent His angel to escort you to a place of rest and refreshment. May He heal your wounds and restore your strength. May our Lord breathe the breath of life into you, that His Spirit may dwell in you and protect you and be for you the wellspring of everlasting joy. Through Christ our Lord.

10/06/2014 07:19:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Thank you for your joyful embrace of Catholicism, my friend. I have prayed the rosary many more times than I would have had we never met. May God reward your faith and good works, and free you from your sins.

Our Lord of the Rosary, pray for her.

10/07/2014 08:15:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Beloved friend, may the music of the Heavenly choirs surround you with beauty and lift you out of yourself and make you forget yourself and open your eyes to the goodness and glory of the immortal Maker of all creation.

May God grant that you also will again make music to the glory of His name, and may He bless and perfect your efforts. Through Christ our Lord.

10/08/2014 09:40:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Glory to Jesus Christ, and peace to His people. May you be counted in their blessed number. God bless you forever.

10/09/2014 10:05:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Rest in peace, my dear friend of happy memory, and may perpetual light shine upon you.

10/10/2014 05:49:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

My much lamented friend, may you find mercy on the Day of the Lord, that great and terrible day, when God will bring every deed into judgment.

10/11/2014 08:45:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Dearly missed friend, may you and I faithfully take up our crosses and follow our Savior, even up the stony path that leads to Calvary. For His path does not end in death, but passes through death to eternal life.

Let us go with Him on the path appointed for us, that we may die with Him, that we may be raised by Him. And if in our timidity we run instead in the opposite direction, may He pardon us, and correct us, and gently lead us back onto the only path that leads to salvation.

Lord grant us fortitude, and a constant memory of the goodness and holiness of Thy will.

10/12/2014 09:12:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

God bless you, sweet friend. I miss you. I pray that you are at peace.

10/13/2014 09:10:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

A stormy day. The skies wept, and I mourned your absence.

I need to be in court today. When I went out to the garage, I discovered that my increasingly forgetful father had driven off somewhere. He has been gone for over an hour, and I am late. A stormy day.

May God help us to overcome all difficulties and always be guided by true charity. I am annoyed. May God curb my tongue.

He just walked in! God bless you, goodbye!

10/14/2014 12:18:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

May you receive mercy when you appear before the judgment seat of Christ. May you dwell forever at peace in the house of the Lord.

10/15/2014 12:56:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Dear friend, I pray that in death you have found that your life had meaning and virtue, and that, despite whatever sins you may have committed, through the grace of God, it was preparation for eternal life with Him, where darkness does not enter in, and there is only goodness and understanding and joy.

Thank you for sharing part of your life with me. May God sustain you and keep you until we meet again. God bless you, now and forever. Amen.

10/16/2014 08:54:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Poor orphan girl, Jesus our Savior promised that He would not leave you as an orphan. I pray that you see Him now clearly, and that He lives in you, and you in Him. Leave all your worldly cares behind, sweet friend, only one thing is needful: only One is good: only one gate leads to eternal life: be holy, be happy, go with God.

10/17/2014 07:41:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

12 years of friendship on the 15th. I've been waiting to mark the day, and then it slipped past unnoticed! I will visit your grave today to say thank you for the many happy days we shared.

10/17/2014 08:52:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Earlier this week, I came across a poem that would have delighted you.

What is the happiness of heaven like? I cannot say, but I pray that you know it well. And may contemplation of the Word bring you joy.

10/18/2014 08:55:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

O almighty and merciful God, graciously keep us from all things that may hurt us: that we, being set free both in body and soul, may willingly fulfill those things that Thou wouldst have done. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God throughout all the ages.

10/19/2014 10:03:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Today is the Feast of St. John Cantius. Thank you for visiting the Chicago parish named in his honor with me...

A housing inspector just arrived here, for a neighbor who is considering purchasing our house. Life hurries on into darker and colder days, and we have to leave much behind.

But these are changes to passing and unnecessary things. I pray that you have now received an inheritance that will not fade.

Rejoice in the goodness of God. I will join you, soon, I hope, when God permits.

10/20/2014 09:26:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

"As a dog returns to his vomit, so a fool to his folly". I pray that you are beyond that stage and the counsel of the Holy Ghost guides you constantly on the path of wisdom. If not, may God strengthen you. In charity, please pray for the weak, short-sighted friends and family you left behind.

10/21/2014 07:42:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Most honored of friends:

May God make real and lasting the goodness to which we aspire. May God breathe His life into you and robe you in virtue and glory.

Through Christ our Lord.

10/22/2014 12:27:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Off to work I go. May the Holy Spirit guide us both in the execution of our duties.

Saint Anthony Mary Claret, pray for her.

10/23/2014 08:32:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Up too late, working. Was thinking of you, even if I wasn't writing to you, 'til now. Sometimes charity is hidden or obscured.

Through the intercession of Saint Raphael and our guardian angels, may blessings from God descend upon you.

10/25/2014 12:40:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

72° and Sunny, with the leaves changing colors, it would be a perfect autumn day, but it is missing you!

I pray that where you find yourself, every day is a perfect day, and you feel no lack. God bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His countenance to you, and give you peace.

10/25/2014 03:28:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Dearest friend, may the Spirit of the Father and of the Son gift you with innocence and with understanding, so that goodness and kindness will always be manifested in your actions. May He make your soul to be pure, your mind to be noble, your heart to be devout, and may He give you a peaceful resting place in Heaven with all the saints. Through Christ our Lord.

Pope St. Evaristus, pray for her.

10/26/2014 08:47:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

My friend, may God grant you unshakeable peace, and may you walk always in His light.

10/27/2014 12:04:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Good night, dear friend. Please pray for the friends and family you left behind.

10/27/2014 09:39:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

O my friend of happy memory, under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit, may you increase in charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, goodness, longanimity, mildness, faith, modesty, continency and chastity.

May our Father in heaven grant that you and I will leave behind all contrary vices and live as His true children.

I pray that you and I will see each other again, and be reunited in the unending friendship of heaven.

Through Christ our Lord.

10/28/2014 10:09:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

It is time now for sleep, mi amiga; may you sleep the sleep of the just and awaken to glad tidings.

10/29/2014 12:28:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Thank God for rest that restores and heals. May such be the sleep that He has ordained for you.

Holy God, please send Thy angel to strengthen Rebecca. Merciful God, let her heart rejoice in Thy goodness and glory. Through Christ our Lord.

10/29/2014 08:17:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Good morning, dear-to-my-heart. A poor night's sleep followed a good night's sleep. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away; blessed be the Lord.

10/30/2014 08:12:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Holy God, Mighty God, have mercy. Divine Master and Father of all mankind, please help Rebecca and whoever most needs Thy help to find refuge in Thee, not because of our feeble merits, but because Thou art a good and loving God, Who hast made us for life, not death. Save us from our sins, I beg Thee, convert our hearts, and send Thy angel to lead us on the path that leads to life. Through Christ, our Lord.

Most gracious Virgin Mary, in charity, please pray for Rebecca, that she will be made worthy to enter God's kingdom.

Holy angels and saints, pray for us.

Good night, Rebecca.

10/30/2014 11:14:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

If I speak with the tongues of men, and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And if I should have prophecy and should know all mysteries, and all knowledge, and if I should have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
And if I should distribute all my goods to feed the poor, and if I should deliver my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity is patient, is kind: charity envieth not, dealeth not perversely; is not puffed up;
Is not ambitious, seeketh not her own, is not provoked to anger, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth with the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Charity never falleth away: whether prophecies shall be made void, or tongues shall cease, or knowledge shall be destroyed.
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
But when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child. But, when I became a man, I put away the things of a child.
We see now through a glass in a dark manner; but then face to face. Now I know in part; but then I shall know even as I am known.
And now there remain faith, hope, and charity, these three: but the greatest of these is charity.
1 Corinthians 13

Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.
Luke 6:37-38

May peace and joy and love overflowing be yours forever, dear friend.

10/31/2014 10:25:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

All saints day: may you be counted in their number.

11/01/2014 09:12:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

I went to St. Michael in Wheaton this evening, to the 5pm Mass you favored. Chris Orf played "Lord of All Hopefulness", one of the hymns he played at your memorial Mass. I wrote your name, and your parents', and Celeste's, in a book of names for people to pray for. May God bless you all.

11/01/2014 07:34:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

All souls day: You died six months ago, most cherished of friends. I still love you and still sorrow at your absence. I hope that you are in heaven, but if not, I pray that God will place you there when you are ready, and that you will be ready soon. God bless you. God love you. Be at peace.

11/02/2014 10:59:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

All Soul's Day gets moved to today in the traditional calendar. Here is a translation of the offertory for the first Mass, which I pray now for you:

O Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory, deliver the souls of all the faithful departed from the pains of Hell and the bottomless pit: deliver them from the lion's mouth, that hell may not swallow them up, and they may not fall into darkness, but let the holy standard-bearer, Michael, lead them into that holy light which of old Thou didst promise to Abraham and to his seed. We offer Thee, O Lord, sacrifices and prayers: mercifully receive them for the souls whose memory we are keeping today. Grant them to pass, O Lord, from death to that life which of old Thou didst promise to Abraham and to his seed.

11/03/2014 07:31:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May the good Lord bless and keep you, Rebecca. Good night.

- Your friend forever [may God make it so]

11/03/2014 08:43:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

My good friend: May Saint Charles Borromeo pray for you that the Holy Ghost may bless you with gifts of understanding and devotion. May Saints Vitalis and Agricola pray for you, that your devotion may be constant and unshakeable.

Through their prayers may the God of peace, who brought again from the dead the great pastor of the sheep, our Lord Jesus Christ, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, fit you in all goodness, that you may do his will; doing in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to Whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

11/04/2014 09:47:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

A prayer suitable for Catholics follows, from an anti-Catholic source! Pray for Henry Francis Lyte, dear friend, and for other well-meaning bigots who get turned around in this poor world of confusion. God save us from all malice and free us from resentment. Holy Savior, set us free.

---

Lord have mercy.

---

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;
Earth's joys grow dim; its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see;
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.

Not a brief glance I beg, a passing word,
But as Thou dwell'st with Thy disciples, Lord,
Familiar, condescending, patient, free.
Come not to sojourn, but abide with me.

Come not in terrors, as the King of kings,
But kind and good, with healing in Thy wings;
Tears for all woes, a heart for every plea.
Come, Friend of sinners, thus abide with me.

Thou on my head in early youth didst smile,
And though rebellious and perverse meanwhile,
Thou hast not left me, oft as I left Thee.
On to the close, O Lord, abide with me.

I need Thy presence every passing hour.
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.

I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.

Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

11/05/2014 09:25:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May the crosses you have had to endure make you holy and unite you to Christ our Hope. Amen.

Dear Lord, abide with her.

11/06/2014 07:47:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May light and love and peace and joy and goodness everlasting be yours, dear friend. God bless you.

Holy servants of the Lord, pray for her.

11/07/2014 09:46:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

I have much to talk about, but no one to talk with, my voluble-when-not-missing friend. Where are you ? The world has become a drier, drabber, drearier place since you left it. I hope that you're having fun, anyway.


(And I really hope that "fun" wouldn't amount to a drop in the deep ocean of bliss you receive in Heaven. Light and peace to you, cherished friend, with wholeness and goodness overflowing.)

11/07/2014 10:42:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

May the grace of God and harmonious communion with His saints be yours forever, dear friend.

11/08/2014 11:12:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Rebecca, my greatly missed sister in Christ, may our friendship last forever and be made perfect by our Maker. Let us pray for each other, you and I, and for those whose lives we have touched, that God may free us from our sorrows and lead us into His light.

Saint John the Baptist, Saint John the Evangelist, pray for us.

11/09/2014 03:30:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Beloved friend, grace and peace to you from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to our God in every remembrance of you. I pray that He, Who began a good work in you in your old life, will now perfect that work, so that your charity may more and more abound in knowledge, and in all understanding, that you may approve the better things, that you may be sincere and without offense unto the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of justice, through Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

I borrowed that prayer from Saints Paul and Timothy, from yesterday's epistle, lightly adapted, so that I may say once more: I love you, and I pray that God blesses you

11/10/2014 01:19:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Put your hope in the Lord, Who has rescued you from death. He is your helper and protector.

Saint Martin of Tours, pray for her. Saint Mennas, pray for her.

11/11/2014 09:23:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

I saw your grave marker yesterday, and returned today with a camera. All four of your daughters played a role in getting the marker installed. Pray for them, and all those you left behind. May your memory be eternal.

[marker] [site]

11/11/2014 10:18:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Holy God, I ask for mercy for Rebecca and for the others for whom I pray. Guide us through all darkness home to Thee, heavenly Father, and grant that we may dwell at peace in Thy house forever. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Pope Saint Martin, pray for us, that we may seek always to speak the truth and to do our Father's will until the end of our days. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

11/12/2014 08:53:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Pray for me, dear friend, that I may remember always to speak gently and act with self-control. And I will pray for you, that you will conquer every fault until the Divine spark shines undimmed in your soul. O beautiful saint of God, when you have become perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect, remember those of us who still struggle.

11/12/2014 10:01:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Rest for your weariness, solace for your sorrows, may our Lord comfort you.

11/13/2014 08:08:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May the love of God encompass you, sweet friend, and bring you joy beyond measure. Good night.

11/13/2014 10:47:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Oh Immense Passion,
Oh Profound Wounds,
Oh Sweetness Above All Sweetness,
Oh Profusion of Blood,
Oh Most Bitter Death,
Give the Souls in Purgatory,
Especially Rebecca, Eternal Rest.
Amen.

11/14/2014 12:42:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.
Holy God, be merciful to me, a sinner.
Holy God, be merciful to me, a sinner,
and have mercy on those for whom I pray.

Free us from our sins, O Lord, and let us love Thee above all Thy creatures. Keep us mindful of Thy goodness and holiness, and our own unworthiness, and convert our hearts to Thee.

Holy Mary, refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Saint John of Damascus, pray for us.
Saint Bonaventure, pray for us.
Saint Albert, pray for us.

11/15/2014 09:18:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, both now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

With the souls of the righteous dead, give rest, O Savior, to the soul of Thy handmaiden Rebecca, preserving her unto the life of blessedness which is with Thee, O Thou Who lovest mankind.

With the saints, O Christ, give her soul rest, where there is neither sickness, nor sorrow, nor sighing, but life everlasting. Amen.

11/15/2014 11:02:00 PM  
Anonymous Michael said...

O Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, Who art everywhere present and fillest all things, Treasury of blessings, and Giver of life: come and abide in us. Cleanse us from all impurity, and of Thy goodness save our souls.

11/16/2014 09:29:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

(I posted this prayer elsewhere on All Saints Day, and now, with your name added, I ask our brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone before us to pray especially for you, dearest friend. Good night.)

All ye holy saints of God, praise Him Who has made you the recipients of immortal gladness, and pray to Him for your poor brothers and sisters in purgatory, especially Rebecca Schwan.

May the kingdom of God increase, and His name be glorified in the hearts of all His faithful. Through Christ our Lord.

11/16/2014 10:22:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

May the Lord of hosts free you from your sins, and aid those for whom you pray. May He light your path and guide your steps and keep you from all harm.

Saint Gregory Thaumaturgus, pray for us.

11/17/2014 02:31:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Good night, dear-to-my-heart. Pray for those who still suffer in this cold world that you have escaped, and I pray for you and your good intentions. God love you!

11/17/2014 11:28:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

May our Lord impart unto you discernment and right judgment.
May our Savior, Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life, be your constant guide.

Holy Lord:
Send out Thy light and Thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto Thy holy hill, and to Thy tabernacles.
Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

11/18/2014 09:21:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

O pure soul, God stands before you with open arms to receive you into His glory.

When you are ready.

Sweet and lovely friend, I pray that you are ready, that all impurity has been purged from your soul, and all debts repaid, according to the merciful will of our Father, so that you may enter into heaven's everlasting joy with a clean conscience and joyful heart.

But... I continue pray for you, sometimes as if you were in danger of hellfire, sometimes as if you were already with the elect in heaven, sometimes as if you were not yet wholly cleansed. Be patient with my absurdity, dear friend. I am blind, and do not know your present state. So, with all the feeble charity I now possess, I pray that God blesses you always, as you were, and are, and will be, so that your final end will be joy with Him in Heaven.

Pax et bonum.

11/19/2014 10:36:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Here I am with a food-related question and no Rebecca to provide an answer! I miss you and thank God for the pleasant times we shared and remember you with affection. Good night, best friend.

11/19/2014 08:51:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Eternal Father, I offer Thee the most Precious Blood of Jesus, with all the Masses being said all over the world this day, for the Souls in Purgatory. Amen.

May God free us from our sins. Amen.

May God grant you peace. Amen.

11/20/2014 10:21:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
1 John 2:15-17

My dear, sweet friend of happy memory, I pray that you do not grieve over your separation from the passing good things of this world. Better wait for you in the world to come. May our Father bless you with surpassing joy on resurrection day and in all the days that follow.

11/21/2014 02:38:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Happy Saint Cecilia Day, my musical friend.

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.
Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing.
Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.
For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.

11/22/2014 10:11:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Dearest friend, light of my eyes, joy of my heart: our Father, Who made you, does all things well. May you discover His purpose for you, and become the saint He made you to be.

Saint Cecilia, pray for her.

11/22/2014 09:47:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Beloved sister in Christ: I cease not to pray for you, and to beg that you may be filled with the knowledge of the will of God, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of God, in all things pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might according to the power of His glory, in all patience and longanimity with joy; giving thanks to God the Father, who hath made you worthy to partake of the lot of the saints in light: Who hath delivered you from the power of darkness, and hath translated you into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the remission of sins.

11/23/2014 08:41:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

My friend: may Christ our King rule over thy heart and give thee peace. May He deliver thee from every evil and preserve thy soul. On the last day, may He restore to thee thy body, healed and glorified, and mayest thou abide in His kingdom forever. Amen.

11/23/2014 10:27:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Litany of the Sacred Heart
prayed for you and for all the poor souls of Purgatory...

V. Lord, have mercy on us.
R. Christ, have mercy on us.
V. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us.
R. Christ, graciously hear us.

God, the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, Son of the Eternal Father, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, formed in the womb of the Virgin Mother by the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, united substantially to the Word of God, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, of Infinite Majesty, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, Sacred Temple of God, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, Tabernacle of the Most High, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, House of God and Gate of Heaven, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, glowing furnace of charity, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, vessel of justice and love, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, full of goodness and love, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, abyss of all virtues, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, most worthy of all praise, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, King and center of all hearts, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, in whom dwelleth all the fullness of the Divinity, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, in whom the Father is well pleased, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, of whose fullness we have all received, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, desire of the everlasting hills, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, patient and rich in mercy, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, rich to all who invoke Thee, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, fount of life and holiness, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, propitiation for our sins, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, saturated with revilings, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, crushed for our iniquities, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, made obedient unto death, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, pierced with a lance, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, source of all consolation, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, our life and resurrection, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, our peace and reconciliation, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, victim for our sins, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, salvation of those who hope in Thee, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, hope of those who die in Thee, have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, delight of all saints, have mercy on us.

V. Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
R. spare us, O Lord.
V. Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
R. graciously hear us, O Lord,
V. Lamb of God who takest away the sins of the world,
R. have mercy on us.

V. Jesus, meek and humble of heart.
R. Make our hearts like unto Thine.

Let us pray:

Almighty and everlasting God, look upon the heart of Thy well-beloved Son and upon the acts of praise and satisfaction which He renders unto Thee in the name of sinners; and do Thou, in Thy great goodness, grant pardon to them who seek Thy mercy, in the name of the same Jesus Christ Thy son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, throughout ages of ages. Amen.

11/24/2014 11:45:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

May God the Father draw you closer to the loving heart of His Son.
May the Holy Spirit impart to you knowledge of the pure charity of the Most Blessed Trinity.

By the intercession of the Sacred Heart of our Lord and the Immaculate Heart of our Lady, may you be truly transformed and made into a new creature. May your heart be made like theirs, filled with with goodness and grace. May your soul be lifted up into everlasting communion with our Savior, and through Him, with all the blessed.

Be free from all fear or bitterness or sorrow, my friend; be joyful with the undimmed joy of the saints. God bless you.

11/24/2014 09:56:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

O God of spirits and of all flesh, You have trampled upon death and have abolished the power of the devil, giving life to Your world. Give rest to the soul of Your departed servant Rebecca in a place of light, in a place of repose, in a place of refreshment, where there is no pain, nor sorrow, nor suffering. As a good and loving God, forgive every sin which she committed in thought, word or deed, for there is no one who lives and does not sin. You alone are without sin. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your word is truth.

For You are the resurrection, the life, and the repose of Your departed servant Rebecca, Christ our God, and to You we give glory, with Your eternal Father and Your all-holy, good and life‑giving Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen.

11/25/2014 02:11:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Peace to you, my friend. I pray for you now a prayer that would have unsettled you in times past, because I have changed words. But, dearly departed one, it is all for the glory of God, so bite your tongue and pray for patience as I begin...

Glorified and sanctified be God’s great name throughout the world which He has created according to His will. May He establish a place for you in His kingdom and among His people, and may you dwell there in comfort and peace, in friendship with the saints.

May the great name of the Lord be blessed forever and to all eternity.

Blessed and praised, glorified and exalted, extolled and honored, adored and lauded be the name of the Holy One, blessed be He, beyond all the blessings and hymns, praises and consolations that are ever spoken in the world. Amen.

May there be abundant peace from heaven, and life, for us and for all God's people. Amen.

He who creates peace in His celestial heights, may He create peace for us and for all His people. Amen.



Here is a recording by a kind-seeming person of the Mourner's Kaddish in Hebrew. She also recites your favorite psalm.


Today was another eventful day, this time with my father. I wish I could talk things over with you. Pray for him, please.

11/26/2014 07:43:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Rebecca, I thank God for giving me you for a companion this past decade and for all His blessings and I pray that you thank the Lord with your whole heart and rejoice in His goodness.

Happy Thanksgiving, my best and dearly loved friend.

11/27/2014 08:54:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever.
Let them say so that have been redeemed by the Lord, whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy: and gathered out of the countries.
From the rising and the setting of the sun, from the north and from the sea.
They wandered in a wilderness, in a place without water: they found not the way of a city for their habitation.
They were hungry and thirsty: their soul fainted in them.
And they cried to the Lord in their tribulation: and He delivered them out of their distresses.
And He led them into the right way: that they might go to a city of habitation.
Let the mercies of the Lord give glory to Him: and His wonderful works to the children of men.
For He hath satisfied the empty soul, and hath filled the hungry soul with good things.
Such as sat in darkness and in the shadow of death: bound in want and in iron.
Because they had exasperated the words of God: and provoked the counsel of the most High:
And their heart was humbled with labours: they were weakened, and there was none to help them.
Then they cried to the Lord in their affliction: and He delivered them out of their distresses.
And He brought them out of darkness, and the shadow of death; and broke their bonds in sunder.
Let the mercies of the Lord give glory to Him, and His wonderful works to the children of men.
Because He hath broken gates of brass, and burst the iron bars.
He took them out of the way of their iniquity: for they were brought low for their injustices.
Their soul abhorred all manner of meat: and they drew nigh even to the gates of death.
And they cried to the Lord in their affliction: and He delivered them out of their distresses.
He sent His word, and healed them: and delivered them from their destructions.
Let the mercies of the Lord give glory to Him: and His wonderful works to the children of men.
And let them sacrifice the sacrifice of praise: and declare His works with joy.

11/27/2014 09:06:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Remember, O Lord our God, Thy handmaid our sister Rebecca, who now standeth before Thee in the faith and hope of life eternal. Release her from her sins, destroying her iniquity, pardoning, loosing, and freeing her from all her transgressions, voluntary and involuntary. Save her from the eternal sufferings and the fires of hell. Grant her to enjoy and to share in Thine eternal bliss which Thou hast prepared for all that love Thee: though she sinned, yet she did not reject Thee, confessing Thee faithfully even in her last breath--the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and believing in God glorified in the Holy Trinity, One in Three and Three in One, according to the Catholic Faith. Be thou therefore merciful to her, looking rather upon her faith than her works, and grant her rest with all thy saints, for Thou art bountiful. No man who lives is without sin, and Thou alone art free from all stain, and Thy truth abideth for ever. Thou art the one merciful and bountiful God who lovest mankind, and to Thee we ascribe glory, to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost now and for ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

11/28/2014 10:02:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Truest, dearest friend, my daily prayer (more than daily prayer) for you is that you will have lasting happiness and that you will be the saint that God has made you to be. If even weak, self-centered I can have such hope for you, surely Immortal Goodness wills no less, and He can grant what we can only ask for.

Therefore I beg of Thee, my God, Holy, Immortal God, blessings for Rebecca: health and happiness, holiness and immortality, the perfection of all virtues in my friend according to her capacity and nature, wisdom and understanding, purpose and the strength to do Thy will, beauty and creativity, unshakeable peace and the grace to dwell always in Thy light.

Dear Lord, may Rebecca know Thy goodness and rejoice, and with the heavenly hosts sing a hymn of joy to the glory of Thy name.

11/28/2014 09:13:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Our Savior has told us:
Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you.
For every one that asketh, receiveth: and he that seeketh, findeth: and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.
Or what man is there among you, of whom if his son shall ask bread, will he reach him a stone?
Or if he shall ask him a fish, will he reach him a serpent?
If you then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children: how much more will your Father who is in heaven, give good things to them that ask him?


and also:
I counsel thee to buy of me gold fire tried, that thou mayest be made rich; and mayest be clothed in white garments, and that the shame of thy nakedness may not appear; and anoint thy eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
Such as I love, I rebuke and chastise. Be zealous therefore, and do penance.
Behold, I stand at the gate, and knock. If any man shall hear my voice, and open to me the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
To him that shall overcome, I will give to sit with me in my throne: as I also have overcome, and am set down with my Father in his throne.


My friend, beloved of God, all that you have had to endure can be a blessing for you, your path to holiness and the joy of heaven. We cannot get there without His help, so ask for His help, listen carefully for His voice, and follow Him. May God bless you.

11/29/2014 12:15:00 PM  
Blogger Michael said...

Shine like one of the stars of heaven, my cherished friend; reflect the goodness and glory of our Maker. Be a mirror of His unending loving-kindness.

Good night.

11/30/2014 12:05:00 AM  
Blogger Michael said...

Today is the start of Advent, the start of a new year for the Church. Last year is now just a sorrowful memory (with a few bright spots). All things pass, dearest friend, but nothing is lost forever and let us trust God to make all things new.

May Christ our Savior lead you out of the valley of the shadow of death to green pastures and restful waters. May you dwell with Him in His house forever. Let us say Amen and may the charity of Christ unite us.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
where there is hatred, let me sow love,
where there is injury, pardon,
where there is doubt, faith,
where there is despair, hope,
where there is darkness, light,
and where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.

11/30/2014 07:34:00 AM  

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