Hear and Heed!

By Lisa Janusa

The definition of the word “heed” is to pay attention or be attentive.

Many people may be aware of the story of the three shepherd children in a small town called “Fatima” that were visited by the Blessed Mother in 1917, but have not heard about the angel that prepared the children for Mary’s visit. 

The oldest child, “Lucia Santos,” related the story that an angel appeared three times to her and her cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto between April and October 1916.  Read More

Trail of Tears

By Kim Roberts

As we entered into January my youngest daughter, who is a senior, told me she was essentially finished with high school. I replied, “No, the next semester counts, too. You need to finish strong.”

I know, she thought, since she had already been accepted into several colleges, she had reached the finish line. I, on the other hand, still want to savor every second, every minute of this time together before we launch our last child out into the world. Read More

How can I help you?

By Ty Salvant

Recently, at the beginning of a meeting, I was asked, “How can I help you?” For a split second, I was caught off guard by the question. The purpose of the was meeting to connect, but usually, these meetings are a little more nuanced, and there’s a dance before a genuine offer is made. Because I was prepared for this meeting, I had a few ideas and was open to additional suggestions. It was extremely fruitful, encouraging and affirming. Admittedly, as a helper, I’m also used to being on the other side of that sentiment, so it was nice being on the receiving end.

I’ll share a little secret with you. For the past year or so, I have tried to help someone daily. If you are kind, you likely do multiple thoughtful actions throughout the day – many times mindlessly. Naturally, we hold the door open for someone or allow someone with one item to go ahead of us in line. Read More

Put on Your Oxygen Mask

By Stacy LaMorte

You have likely heard people say that, as parents, we have to be sure to take care of our health so that we can be the best version of ourselves.

Our spiritual health is no different.

On a plane, the flight attendant explains that in case of loss of cabin pressure, adults should put on their own oxygen mask first and then apply one to their children who cannot do it themselves.  This is because if we lose consciousness in a flight emergency, we can’t help our children. Read More

Look at the Purple Sky

By Charlotte Phillips

Recently, I was able to go to Atlanta to Ignatius House, one of a handful of Jesuit Retreat Centers left in the Jesuit East Providence, for five wonderful nights on a silent retreat. Read More

God’s Lenten Preparation for Me

By Gina Sternfels

Looking ahead to Lenten preparation, what are you planning to do with God this year?  Do you wonder how God is calling you closer to him? Where in life does he want you to focus? Is it obvious or are you trying to figure it out?

Recently, I have been blessed to work with Beth, The Catholic Fasting Coach, and her beautiful community. I am amazed at what I have learned about fasting with her guidance, and I would have thought I should have known more as a cradle Catholic. Read More

The Blessed Mother in the City

By Kristen Bourgeois

I spent most of my law enforcement career assigned to the Sixth District (Lower Garden District, Irish Channel, Central City) of New Orleans. I was so very familiar with the neighborhoods: the details of those city blocks, the memories of certain crimes that have occurred. Read More

The daily morning offering is life changing

By Greg Zambrano

A typical thought I used to have in the morning was wondering how my day would turn out. I hoped it would be positive and free of issues and trouble.

But, then, I heard a priest talk about praying the morning offering, like religious men and women do when they awaken, and I decided to give it a try. It has changed my life. Read More

The Tree of Life

By Ana Borden

We have a massive cypress tree that shades us from the summer sun. By the time fall rolls around, with each breeze, the leaves fall through the end of the year. Our yard becomes topped with a golden-brown layer throughout most of the first half of winter.

  Read More