Grateful
The Church Pew
Today I visited an elderly friend. While I was there, my 12:00 noon timer went off. Many years ago, my mother said she remembered when she was in school as a child, they would pray the Angelus when the church bells rang at noon. So, I set the alarm. My mom and I and whoever […]
Holy People and Families
The Sunday after Christmas is the Feast of the Holy Family. As a divorced woman, I sometimes cringe at the readings, feeling like they don’t apply to me, or that I have somehow messed it all up already. But today I watched the homily of Fr. Mick Schmitz, which I loved. It made sense to […]
Safety and Peace
At one point, we planned on spending Christmas at the cabin. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out. So today I decided to make a trip up there and take care of a couple of things. It may snow tomorrow, so I thought this would be the best time. When I arrived at the top of the […]
Joyful, Grateful, Peaceful
I have had a wonderful week full of Christmas joy, gratitude, and peace. Last weekend my oldest grandson came home for a few days. I decorated the house, made goodies, and hosted Christmas dinner for my family. We played Christmas song charades, laughed a lot, and ate a lot. Before the meal, I led the […]
Search for Shelter
Today’s reflection in the Hallow app was titled, “The Search for Shelter”. They were talking about Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter when Mary was about to give birth. I tried to imagine their state of mind as they knocked on door after door, perhaps praying that someone would let them in. If it were […]
Basilica of St. Francis Xavier
This week I’m sharing photos of the Basilica of St Francis Xavier in Dyersville, IA. This Gothic style church was in stark contrast to the stone and shell grotto and shrines I saw in WI. The parish in Dyersville was formed in the late 1880’s to serve the growing number of German immigrants who had […]
Praying With Our Lady of Guadalupe
I participated in the Diocese celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Sunday with a friend. The weather was perfect for a procession from the park to the church. Praying the rosary on the way gave more meaning to the walk. The dancers and colorful costumes really added to the festivities. I […]
Facing Fear
One thing I know that is unsettling to me and keeps me from being still and at peace is fear. I remember hearing the acronym, “False Evidence Appearing Real.” We should change it to “Face Everything And Rise”. That is easier said than done. When I did my road trip this Spring, I will admit […]
Finding Rest
I loved the Gospel reading for today: Matthew 11:28-30Jesus said to the crowds:“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke […]
Lord’s Battle
A friend of mine has been taking care of her 2 toddler grandchildren for a few days now as their parents went out of town. I went over and spent a few hours with all of them today. My friend was pretty tired and I could understand why. The little ones were full of energy […]
Still Finding God 