Brian Flynn on EWTN

Our friend Erin Flynn who is a very special and talented singer herself, notified us that her Brother, Brian Flynn, one of my favorite singers was on EWTN Tonight.

Great Christian "Catholic" Rock Group

 

Click here to listen to their music

Here is the link to their site

The Annunciation

And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth,  To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel being come in, said unto her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.  Who having heard, was troubled at his saying, and thought with herself what manner of salutation this should be.  And the angel said to her: Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God.

Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and shalt bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name Jesus.  He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the most High; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father; and he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever. And of his kingdom there shall be no end.  And Mary said to the angel: How shall this be done, because I know not man?  And the angel answering, said to her: The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the most High shall overshadow thee. And therefore also the Holy which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

And behold thy cousin Elizabeth, she also hath conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her that is called barren: Because no word shall be impossible with God. And Mary said: Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:26-38)

Artwork by Lawrence

A Walk Around The Church

One of the things I love about our church is the stained glass windows. When the church was initially built 25 years ago, it was built without any Stained Glass. I know that there was a transient thought that the people gave the color to the church, as the body of Christ, and that there is no need for stained glass.

Well, Thank God the church received an Irish Priest, Father Canny who said "Where is all the beautiful windows?" And it wasn't long and many of the windows were transformed.

Each window tells a story and allows entrance into a holy place, like this representation of Fatima.

It doesn't take long after setting your gaze on such beauty,

 and while adding prayer,  you can be engulfed in peaceful dialog with God.

These Holy images are our tools that help us give a physical presence to what is invisible. Are they completely necessary for prayer? No, But are they helpful? Yes!

These images (Our Lady of Guadalupe) help connect us with our ancestors, our heritage, our faith.

They represent just how big and vast our God  is and how we belong to a 

faith much larger that we usually consider (Our lady of Knock - Ireland)

Art has been a part of the catholic faith since the time of the apostles. 

Most would agree that art is a beautiful gift from God 

and not only inspires but brings with it such emotion and feeling.

Tradition is such a huge aspect of our faith, and stained glass windows represent an aspect of that tradition. When one disregards tradition thinking that it is outdated or unneeded in lieu of modernization or progress, they are dismissing a huge part of their own existence.

A single picture can tell a story that even if 1000 words 

were written would not contain the details of the single image.

Thank God for Stained Glass Windows and Irish Priests with convictions!

Sacred Music and Your Parish

One can walk into nearly any parish today and hear almost any type of music, from Gregorian chant to folk music to heavy metal. While most parishes offer one type of music within a given Mass, some parishes even provide a musical contrast within the same one. I actually attended a funeral Mass in which an electric guitar was used alternately with a harp. Figure that one out if you can.

Unusual combinations aside, isn’t it a good thing to have something different for everyone? The old people can listen to chant, the middle-aged people can listen to folk music, and the young people can listen to heavy metal. Everyone gets to be around their favorite music, which is, after all, a large part of what the Mass is all about: personal preferences and self-expression. Right?

Wrong.

Pope Benedict XVI, then Cardinal Ratzinger, stated in The Spirit of the Liturgy that "Not every kind of music can have a place in Christian worship." Although individuals can be naturally drawn to certain types of music, sacred music–which is meant specifically for the liturgy — is not derived from natural tendencies or preferences. Sacred music, like the rest of the liturgy, is not about mere self-expression; it is about receiving and participating in what has been passed down to us, such as Gregorian chant.

Gregorian chant — named after Pope St. Gregory the Great (590-604) — is sacred music of the highest order. In the Second Vatican Council’s Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, we are told that The Church acknowledges Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services (Art. 116).

Why does Gregorian chant occupy such a central role in the liturgy? Pope St. Pius X (1903-1914) explains in his 1903 instruction Tra le Sollecitudini that

Sacred music should…possess, in the highest degree, the qualities proper to the liturgy, and in particular sanctity and goodness of form, which will spontaneously produce the final quality of universality (No. 2).

The saintly Pontiff goes on to state in the same document that These qualities [of sanctity, goodness of form, and universality] are to be found, in the highest degree, in Gregorian Chant, which is consequently the Chant proper to the Roman Church, the only chant she has inherited from the ancient Fathers, which she has jealously guarded for centuries in her liturgical codices, which she directly proposes to the faithful as her own, which she prescribes exclusively for some parts of the liturgy… (No.3).

While other types of sacred music (such as polyphony) may be admitted to the liturgy (SC Art 116), Gregorian chant is, according to Pope St. Pius X, "the supreme model for sacred music" (TS No. 3) because of its sanctity, goodness of form, and universality. It has a simplicity, sobriety, and resonance that manifest the beauty of the liturgical action.

The next time you’re at Mass, ask yourself how the music you’re hearing measures up to this supreme model. In many parishes, the goal seems to be the avoidance of this supreme model, rather than the approach toward it. In fact, many Catholics would be surprised to learn that Church authorities have taught anything at all on sacred music, and would probably be even more surprised to learn that specific musical instruments have been named, whether for endorsement or for exclusion.

Can drums, guitars, and pianos be made suitable for sacred use? Do they accord with the dignity of the temple? Do they contribute to the edification of the faithful? Before these questions are answered, it should be pointed out that while many types of music are inherently good, they are not meant specifically for the Mass. Piano music, for example, can be great entertainment at a social function–but the Mass is not a mere social function, it is the Sacrifice of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

There is no better way to sum it up than with the words of our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, from his 2007 encyclical Sacramentum Caritatis:

Certainly as far as the liturgy is concerned, we cannot say that one song is as good as another. Generic improvisation or the introduction of musical genres which fail to respect the meaning of the liturgy should be avoided. As an element of the liturgy, song should be well integrated into the overall celebration. Consequently everything–texts, music, execution–ought to correspond to the meaning of the mystery being celebrated, the structure of the rite and the liturgical seasons. Finally, while respecting various styles and different and highly praiseworthy traditions, I desire… that Gregorian chant be suitably esteemed and employed as the chant proper to the Roman liturgy …(No. 42).

We have the clear instructions, now we need more people to read them and carry them out. St. Cecilia, Patroness of Musicians, pray with us that this will happen, for the glory of God and the sanctification of all.
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For the full article by Trent Beattie Click Here

Saint Lawrence

Saint Lawrence (By Deacon Lawrence)

Saint Lawrence is the patron saint deacons. He is depicted here wearing a dalmatic, the vestment of the deacon. In his right hand he holds the book of Gospels and in his left he hold a chalice. Deacons are ordained to a ministry of the Word and the liturgy in addition to their service to the people of God. Behind him is the gridiron and the fire that were the instruments of his martyrdom. His role as a martyr is also represented by the palm.

The Sacred Heart of Christ

The Sacred Heart of Jesus burns with a love so great that he endures His suffering and death for our sake. The thorns, the cross, the piercing and the drops of blood are symbols of his Passion. The letters in the arms of the cross borrow from traditional iconography and recall His Holy Name given to Moses.

By Deacon Lawrence

Fallen

Fallen (By Deacon Lawrence Klimecki)

Hell is the eternal loneliness of being separated from God. Here a fallen angel, his wings singed and damaged, considers his fate. In the distance the light of the divine dims, a fading memory of what he once was.

St. Gabriel - By Deacon Lawrence

St. Gabriel, the wings denote his spiritual nature, the hair ribbons indicate that he always hears the word of God, and the monogram of Christ in his halo points to the Lord.

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The spear draws on traditional iconography and is commonly used in representations of the archangels, it is a sign of their authority.

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The horn is symbolic of his role as God’s herald and the ring of lilies is a reference to the Blessed Virgin Mary, to whom Gabriel appeared to announce the coming of Jesus.

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While You Were Sleeping!

A video to the song while you were sleeping by Casting crowns. We need to think about all that we have missed when we were sleeping and in the future if we will still be sleeping.

"While You Were Sleeping"

Oh little town of Bethlehem
Looks like another silent night
Above your deep and dreamless sleep
A giant star lights up the sky
And while you're lying in the dark
There shines an everlasting light
For the King has left His throne
And is sleeping in a manger tonight

Oh Bethlehem, what you have missed while you were sleeping
For God became a man
And stepped into your world today
Oh Bethlehem, you will go down in history
As a city with no room for its King
While you were sleeping
While you were sleeping

Oh little town of Jerusalem
Looks like another silent night
The Father gave His only Son
The Way, the Truth, the Life had come
But there was no room for Him in the world He came to save

Jerusalem, what you have missed while you were sleeping
The Savior of the world is dying on your cross today
Jerusalem, you will go down in history
As a city with no room for its King
While you were sleeping
While you were sleeping

United States of America
Looks like another silent night
As we're sung to sleep by philosophies
That save the trees and kill the children
And while we're lying in the dark
There's a shout heard 'cross the eastern sky
For the Bridegroom has returned
And has carried His bride away in the night

America, what will we miss while we are sleeping
Will Jesus come again
And leave us slumbering where we lay
America, will we go down in history
As a nation with no room for its King
Will we be sleeping
Will we be sleeping

United States of America
Looks like another silent night

Liturgical Music - Where has it gone?

For many years I have felt that the music at Mass has lost something. It isn't that the musicians are not talented - they are. It isn't that they don't rehearse - they do. And they are good and devout people, so that isn't the problem.

But for years, I have heard from parishioners that they wished the music at Mass was better, complaining about our music.

But when I asked specifically what was so bad about the music, I would hear a variety of complaints.

Then it hit me..... I think many of us have varied ideas and understandings of what we think Liturgical music should be.

I think this video can explain, much better than I can,

what Liturgical Music is and should be.

I hope that we can instill these ideas and bring a sense of the extreme Holiness of the Mass back into our churches through Sacred and Truly Liturgical Music.

The Assumption

The Assumption

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Its flowers are too stainless to remain

Concealed in the dark caverns of the earth,

But must be lifted up by God again

To know a second spring - a glad rebirth!

-

How could Christ leave her body in the tomb

Who was above all other women blest,

Who gave Him refuge in her virgin womb,

And fed Him on the lilies of her breast?

-

Is she not fairer far than any flower?

What bloom could ever boast her loveliness?

What fragrance rose in its sequestered bower

Has ever vied with her in spotlessness?

-

Truly the Lord, her God, the Holy One,

Has placed His tabernacle in the sun.

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[Thomas Burke, 1944]

Embrace your Uniqueness

God has created all of us in a unique way, to be a unique person, with unique gifts.

There is no one else just like you.

Don't waste any time trying to be like someone else.

Just be you....... and love it!

Birth name: Israel Kaʻanoʻi Kamakawiwoʻole
Born: May 20, 1959
Origin: Hawaii, USA
Died: June 26, 1997 (aged 38)
Occupation(s): Musician, singer-songwriter
Instrument(s): Ukulele, vocals

To Read more about this man - click here

I'm Yours.....

Bring It Home!

Video Clip from Padre Scott's Blog - Thanks

Joy in the Journey

Music by Michael Card

Prediction: This will be a hit within one month!!!

From the Orthodox Jewish community comes Matisyahu, here presented with his piece ‘Jerusalem’.

Drawing from Psalm 137 the chorus echoes the lyric: “If I forget you Jerusalem, may my right hand wither.”

Don’t forget to check out his new release, One Day.

Compliments from Father Avram

Christian Youth Theater - Annie Jr. Performance

Last night was the finale of Christian Youth theater's

Performance of Annie Jr.

It was a spectacular performance!

But I must say that my favorite character was Lt. Ward (my daughter Mackenzie).

They rehearsed for 3 months and performed in the Theater at Shasta College.

The quality of the performance and the singing was excellent.

Well Done, I was impressed.


The kids had a great time and Mackenzie met such wonderful new friends.....

All in a Christian environment.

Mackenzie even had a few fans who wanted autographs.....

Liz helped, as did so many parents, with making sure that the huge event went without a hitch.

And after every big family event, we must celebrate with a tiny bit of ice cream.

However my brother Dan chose the salad.

What!!!!! no bacon bits......

The Dance of Life

Dance

This is a poem written by a teenager with cancer.

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Have you ever watched kids

On a merry-go-round?

Or listened to the rain

Slapping on the ground?

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Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?

Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?

-

You better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

-

Do you run through each day On the fly?

When you ask 'How are you?

'Do you hear the reply?

-

When the day is done

Do you lie in your bed

With the next hundred chores Running through your head?

-

You'd better slow down

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

-

Ever told your child, We'll do it tomorrow?

And in your haste,

Not see his sorrow?

-

Ever lost touch,

Let a good friendship die

Cause you never had time To call and say,'Hi'

-

You'd better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

-

When you run so fast to get somewhere

You miss half the fun of getting there.

When you worry and hurry through your day,

It is like an unopened gift....Thrown away.

-

Life is not a race.

Do take it slower

Hear the music

Before the song is over.

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- - - - - - -

I really like this poem.

It isn't spiritual and lacks insight into heaven and everlasting life,

but does give one something to ponder......

The Beauty of the Human Body

A poem by a Hermit Trappist Monk

Divine is his, alike is her design,

both front and back in ev'ry artful line.

Their irised eyes and rosette nibs align,

and centered nose and subtle navel fine.

two horizontal lips to kiss and dine,

two hushed in down to sup a spouse's wine.

Those shoulders, thighs robust divide the spine.

Ten fingered hands that serve; in love, entwine,

ten toes a foot, to dance and sports incline.

What more could you expect of God's own shrine?

Could be, resurrection's anodyne!