Stigmata

The existence of stigmata is so well established that it is no longer doubted, even by unbelievers. The only issue under contention is the origin of this mysterious phenomenon.

Are stigmata caused by natural means: a deep faith coupled with a lively imagination acting on the human body by some, as yet unknown, physiological process? Or are stigmata supernatural in origin, granted to devout individuals to bear witness to the validity of their faith?

The answer is still under debate. There are proponents and sceptics on both sides of the argument.

Stigmata, within the context of Christianity, resemble the wounds Christ suffered before and during his crucifixion, circa 33 AD. They appear spontaneously on a human body, usually on the hands, feet, the back, the forehead and the side. These are called visible stigmata and they cause intense pain and suffering.

Other stigmatics have the only the suffering, without any visible marks. These are termed invisible stigmata. St. Catherine of Sienna (1347-1380) at first received the marks of Christ's suffering, but she, because of humility, asked to have to visible signs removed. Her prayer was answered, although she continued to suffer the physical distress.

The sufferings are considered by the Church to be the essential part of the stigmata. They are accompanied by a pity for Christ, participation in his sorrows and sufferings, and a desire to compensate in part for the continual sins being committed throughout the world.

St. Paul himself may have been the first stigmatic. "I bear on my body the marks of Jesus." Gal. 6:17

St. Francis of Assisi ( 1181-1226 ) was the first recorded case in Church history. His stigmata were unique in that they were outgrowths of flesh on his hands and feet in the shape of nails. They were observed by his brother monks and attested to by a number of historians.

Therese Neumann (1898-1962) was a modern-day stigmatic who lived in Bavaria, Germany. After a series of accidents, she became blind, paralysed and suffered from convulsions. She was cured through the intercession of St. Therese of Lisieux, to whom she had special devotion.

In 1926, she had a vision of Jesus, and received the stigmata. Her wounds would bleed every Friday, the day Jesus was crucified, and were especially painful during Lent. From Christmas, 1926, until her death in 1962, Therese Neumann neither ate nor drank anything, except for receiving daily Holy Communion.

Another twentieth century stigmatic was Padre Pio of Italy (1887-1968). He was kneeling in front of a large crucifix one day in 1918, when he received the visible marks of the crucifixion on his body. He was the first stigmatized priest in the Church's history. His wounds remained open and bleeding for 50 years. After he died, the wounds disappeared and there was no sign of scarring. He was canonized in June, 2002, by Pope John Paul II.

There are three special circumstances the Church looks for when investigating stigmata events in the lives of saints:

* The wounds cannot be cured by medical means.

* They do not give off a foul or fetid odor, as do other long-lasting wounds

* Sometimes the wounds of stigmatics give off an odor of perfume.

The Church realizes the possibility of conscious or unconscious cases of fraud in the cases of stigmata it investigates. Perhaps those who enter deep trances or states of religious ecstasy could trigger a mind-body link capable of producing stigmata. Modern psychology just has not progressed far enough yet to give a definitive answer.

Therese Neumann had a comment for those who tried to explain stigmata scientifically: "Imagine you would be an ox, would you grow horns as a result?".

She believed, as do many others, that the correct answer to the phenomenon is probably the most obvious: stigmata are supernatural in origin, granted to devout individuals to bear witness to the validity of their faith.

Heaven knows, in the secular, materially-oriented society in which we live, we need every sign we can ascertain, of a transcendent, supernatural Presence among us.

Does God know the future?

The Oxford English Dictionary defines future as: "...the time that is still to come", but time is a concept developed by human beings to mark the progression of events on Earth. God is outside of time. He dwells in Eternity. He always was, always will be, and always remains the same. This is a mystery that we cannot understand; it is not contrary to logic, it is beyond logic.

Does God know the future? Yes, of course. From God's vantage point, time does not exist. He can see past, present and future all at once. He is above all and present to all.

The human mind lacks the ability to grasp this concept; a microbe has a better chance of understanding human behavior than we do of visualizing God's relationship to what we know as time. When we get to heaven, it is just one of the things we'll finally be able to comprehend.

Discussions on this matter often turn into considerations of the matter of predestination. If God can see the future, does He know when we're born, who will get to heaven and who won't? If so, why does He not send us directly to our final destination? Why make us struggle through life on earth only to end up in the place He knew we would be going all along?

We need to remember that one of the gifts humans were given was that of free will. We have the ability to choose good and reject evil. God did not create people to be puppets.

We were also endowed with a conscience, an inner voice which guides us to make the right choices. Even those humans who live in isolated societies instinctively know that it's wrong to kill another person, or to steal from your neighbor. Those of us who come from religious backgrounds have the advantage of clearer instructions, but God takes all the circumstances into consideration.

The point is, we choose our final destination for ourselves. God does not send anyone to hell. By our consistent choices of evil over good, of refusing to repent and to make amends for the wrong thoughts and actions, we each determine our own final destiny.

This is why we must spend our time on earth. Even though God knows all along where we will spend Eternity, we are given the opportunity to exercise the free will He has given us.

Does God know the future? Yes, God does. He also respects and loves humans, the creatures who are made in His image and likeness. He honors the free will they possess. He takes pleasure in sharing with them the beauty of the earth and the glories of the skies. Even though He knows where bad choices will lead them, He gives them every chance to repent, and in so doing achieve eternal life with Him in heaven.

Unfortunately for some, everything God does, every chance He gives them, is not enough.

The real meaning of Christmas

The first six letters of the word Christmas provide the reason for our celebration. "Christ" translated from Hebrew means "Messiah", the One foretold by the prophets throughout the Old Testament. The Greek translation means "the anointed One".

The Jewish people had been expecting a Messiah for hundreds of years. At the time of Jesus' birth, they  hoped He would conquer and expel the Romans who were occupying their land, and the holy city of Jerusalem.

However, Jesus came for much greater purposes: to atone for sin, thereby opening the gates of heaven, and to show us what God is like, thus making it easier for humans to know and love Him.

At Christmas, God entered human history, an event considered so earth-shaking, that time, from then on, has been measured from that date. A.D. is Latin for "anno Domini", meaning "the year of the Lord". This year is 2012 A.D., or 2,012 years after the birth of Christ.

The traditions and symbols of Christmas relate to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem long ago.

* Christmas Carols. Hymns were sung by the angels when they announced Jesus' birth to the shepherds tending their flocks on the hillsides outside of Bethlehem.

* Exchanging gifts. The Magi brought gifts to Jesus. Jesus is now in heaven with His Father and the Holy Spirit. He needs nothing material from us. We give gifts to others in His honor.

* Lights, candles. Jesus said: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

*Wreaths. The wreath is a circle, a symbol of God, Who has no beginning and no end.

* Candy canes. These remind us of the shepherds' staffs. The shepherds were Jesus' first visitors. The color red symbolizes the blood which He would shed on the cross. White reminds us of His purity.

*A star. The Magi came from the East and found Jesus by following a bright star.

* The Christmas tree. It is traditionally an evergreen, which never sheds its leaves. It symbolizes God's unending love for us.

* Christmas Cards. For many years, people wrote notes wishing friends and neighbors "Merry Christmas" when celebrating Jesus' birth . In 1843, Sir Henry Cole had 1000 specially designed cards printed. Thus, the custom of sending Christmas cards began.

* Saint Nicholas. He was a real person. He was a good bishop who lived in the fourth century and brought gifts to poor people and children. His feast day is December 6.. Santa Claus is a modern-day adaptation of Saint Nicholas.

* Bells. Bells on Christian churches will ring joyfully on Christmas morning, announcing this year's celebration of Jesus' birth.

* Angels. They proclaimed the Savior's birth to the shepherds, that first Christmas Eve.

* Christmas colors. Red reminds us that Jesus shed His blood for us. Green symbolizes the everlasting life which He offers us. White reminds us of His purity. Gold reminds us of Jesus' kingship. Although He came as a helpless Infant, Jesus is King and Creator of the universe.

Even though non-believers try to exclude Jesus Christ from the celebration of Christmas, they will never succeed. The very traditions and celebrations of the season proclaim the fact that Jesus' arrived on earth, and through that event, God inserted Himself into human history. We continue to celebrate the occasion two thousand and twelve years later.

How God speaks to us

Jesus encouraged us to address God as "Our Father". If we envision God as the perfect all-loving Parent, He will certainly communicate with His children, and He does so, in many different ways.

"He who has ears, let him hear."  Matthew 11:15

God speaks to us:

(a) Through His Word

Christians believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. They make Bible reading an important part of their prayer life.

"All scripture, inspired of God, is profitable to teach, to reprove, to correct, to instruct in justice.." 2 Timothy 3:16

The New Testament is especially important because it is a record of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ whom Christians believe is God Himself, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity.

(b) Through Conscience

Conscience is the quiet, small voice that whispers to your heart when you are about to do something wrong, or that guides you to see opportunities to do something good. Christians believe that conscience is the voice of the Holy Spirit, guiding you to act in a manner that is pleasing to God.

It is important to listen and act on the promptings of conscience, because it can become warped or even silenced if it is repeatedly ignored.

(c) Through Other People

How often has a friend or relative come up with a good idea which can solve a problem which has been troubling you? For many of us, it happens quite often.

Sometimes you walk into church on Sunday, only to hear the priest or minister address some topic which has been puzzling you, or preach on an issue which is of major concern to you at the moment. It happens too often to be a coincidence.

(d) Through Nature

When you see a beautiful sunset, billions of stars sparkling in the night sky, the brilliant colors of autumn leaves, you are drawn to wonder about the Source of such beauty.

When you ponder the diversity of plant and animal life on the planet, and reflect on how each is endowed with the ability to reproduce and provided with the means to combat its enemies, you have to marvel at the creativity and wisdom of the Originator.

When you see a new baby, and reflect on how it developed an intricate circulatory system, respiratory system, nervous system, and skeletal system all within nine months, without any human intervention, you have to realize that an all-powerful and all-wise Creator was guiding the process.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb". Psalm 139:13

(e) Through Events

After you set your sights on a certain goal and obstacles begin to disappear from your path, God is approving your choice. When you decide on a plan of action, and major obstructions suddenly appear, He may be directing you to choose another strategy.

When you're rushed, and find a convenient parking spot right in front of your destination, God is lending a helping hand, When you're unavoidably delayed, and because of it, you miss an accident or an unpleasant family argument, God has protected you. Don't forget to thank Him.

God does indeed communicate with His children every day. He doesn't usually use a human voice that is heard with the ear. He is Spirit. He doesn't intrude in the midst of the noise and bustle of daily life. He speaks to the heart, when the listener is quiet, at prayer, or in a reflective mood.

"Whenever I see sunbeams coming through clouds, it always looks to me like God shining himself down onto us. The thing about sunbeams is they're always there even though we can't always see them. Same with God."                   Terri Guillemets

How to forgive and love an enemy

Christians must love their enemies because Jesus Christ, who is God, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, has commanded us to.

"But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be children of your Father in heaven..."   Matt. 5: 44-45

Jesus goes on to say that God sends the sunshine and the rain on the just and unjust alike. He does not hate sinners but loves them and gives them numerous opportunities to repent. If they reject Him and the help He offers, they, in effect, choose their own destiny.

Christians, as the people of God, might very well be the means God wants to use to draw these errant souls back to Himself. This can best be accomplished if they are approached with love, rather than with words of hatred and condemnation.

Every Christian must also love and forgive his enemies for his own sake. In the Lord's Prayer, we ask God to forgive us our trespasses or sins, as we forgive those who trespass or sin against us. In other words, we can't expect God to forgive us if we aren't willing to forgive those who sin against us, or in other words, our enemies.

Hatred is a destructive emotion. It poisons our moments of peace and contentment, it causes stress, and negatively affects the nervous system, sleep patterns, the heart and circulatory system.

The old saying that "hatred eats away at you..." conveys a great deal of truth. Usually, it doesn't affect the object of our hatred in the slightest. The energy expended in actively hating another person is ultimately turned back on the hater himself.

But, how can we forgive and love our enemies? We're only human after all, and anger, hatred and aversion are difficult emotions to ignore.

First of all, we must realize that forgiveness is an act of the will. You cannot always force yourself to love an enemy with your emotions, at least not right away.

You needn't approach him with feigned goodwill and false affection which you don't truly feel. He would sense your insincerity and it might make matters worse.

The Christian can decide that, because God wills it, he will forgive this enemy. He will refuse to entertain any negative thoughts about him. He will pray for the enemy and mentally place him in the hands of the loving Father who created them both. He will refuse to speak badly about this person, or to do anything that could harm him in any way.

In time, through prayer and with God's help, the hateful emotions will start fade to neutral, then to those approaching brotherly love. This is, after all, a soul for whom Jesus gave His life. Although he may have fallen off track for awhile, who among us hasn't? And then he will ask himself, "Is there anything I can do to help this person along the way to his heavenly home?"

At that point, the Christian will know that he has reached the goal with which Jesus challenged His followers: to love one's enemies. Then his own soul will be at peace. Because he has forgiven another, he can look forward with hope to having his own transgressions forgiven by the Father, on that day he finally reaches Heaven.

Contemplative Prayer

Prayer may be defined simply as talking to God, then listening for a reply. However, we all have times when God doesn't seem to answer, at least not immediately. An alternate form of prayer, which many people find helpful, is Contemplative or Imaginative Prayer. It was made popular by St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuits, in the sixteenth century.

You begin by choosing a favorite Bible story. I like the one about Jesus calming the storm ( Luke 8: 22-25) You begin by asking God to be with you, and to help you learn the lesson he has for you in this story. Then read the story slowly and set the scene in the your mind. Place yourself in the picture. Are you one of the apostles? Are you Jesus? You could choose to be yourself, sitting in a corner of the boat watching events unfold.

What do you see? You are in a fishing boat, in a lake, in the midst of a terrible storm. The sky is almost continually lit with brilliant flashes of lightning. High waves are crashing over the sides of the boat. The frightened men around you are bumping into each other as they frantically bail water out of the boat. In spite of their efforts, the water is continually rising. As you look toward the back of the boat you see a man, his head on a pillow on one of seats. He is apparently sound asleep, oblivious to the chaos around him. The men keep throwing anxious glances in his direction, but he doesn't move.

What do you hear? Your hear the crashing and rumbling of thunder. You hear the panicky shouts of the men as they call to one another. You hear fear in their voices. You hear water sloshing over the sides of the boat, and gurgling around in the bottom. After a while, you hear one of men say they are going to wake Jesus, because the boat is almost surely about to sink.

What do you smell? There is a damp smell of fresh water. There is the lingering odor of the many fish which have been caught and hauled in nets into this boat. There is an odor of damp cloth and sweat as the men work frantically to keep the boat afloat.

What do you feel? You may feel a little seasick as the boat rolls madly from side to side. You are very uncomfortable, cold and wet from the rain. The water is slowly rising up over your feet, climbing up your ankles. You can understand the apostles' fear. You wish Jesus would hurry up and do something.

Imagine the action. One of the men wakens Jesus. He stands up. He has a regal bearing and he is taller than the others. He looks at them, and at you, with a sad look. Then he makes his way slowly to the front of the boat. Everyone stops what they are doing and watches him. He raises his arms over the turbulent water and commands the storm to stop. Immediately there is a dead calm. He turns back to the men and to you and says in a disappointed way, "Where is your faith?" Heads drop in shame and embarrassment, they should have known better. They had witnessed Jesus at work before. They had seen his miracles. They should have trusted in his love and care,

Pay attention to any emotional reactions or insights that might occur to you. What storm is troubling your life right now? What is God telling you? The apostles are not the only ones who had to learn to have faith and trust in Divine Providence. Whatever your problem is, turn the matter over to Jesus, and ask him to resolve it in the best way possible, according to his will. Then leave it with him. You may be amazed at the results.

How to begin your faith journey

As a person ages, he begins to wonder about the great mysteries of life. Why am I here? What is the purpose of my life? Is death really the end? Does God exist? Does He really care about humanity?

The thoughtful seeker may decide to investigate these questions for himself. Where should he start? Many Christians would suggest that he begin by reading the Bible, especially the four Gospels found in the New Testament.

The writers, called the Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, wrote accounts of the life of Jesus of Nazareth, each from his own perspective. They were so convinced that Jesus Christ was divine, that the first three, along with many other early Christians, went willingly to martyrdom as witnesses to their faith. John is believed to have died a natural death in extreme old age at Ephesus, a city in ancient Greece.

The seeker should read the Bible with an open mind. Did the Evangelists have enough evidence to justify their faith? What was it about Jesus that has enabled belief and devotion to Him to survive throughout two thousand years of turbulent history until the present day?

As the seeker is reading and reflecting, he is advised to look around at his family and neighbors. Some will probably be Catholic, others may belong to other faith traditions, and still others have no religious affiliation at all. Is he able to notice any difference in their behaviors and lifestyles?

Jesus' law of love is, " Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength...and love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12: 30-31

This is not to say that Catholics are perfect by any means, but if they are trying to obey Jesus' command, they should be making the world a little better place because of their presence in it.

Unfortunately, we imperfect Christians have had differences over the past two thousand years. Christianity has become divided into many different denominations. The presence of these schisms has damaged our witness and our credibility to non-Christians throughout the world. Many men and women of good will are continually working and praying that we will soon find a way to repair these divisions.

Study the history of Christianity. Research the founder of each branch of the Christian faith. Which leader was commissioned by Jesus himself? Which church, despite obstacles and difficulties, has endured for over 2,000 years?

Finally, visit the Catholic Church in your locality. Get to know the people there. Attend some celebrations. Join the R.C.I.A. (the Rite of Christian Initiation) program. It's free and you are under no obligation to continue. You can stop attending whenever you wish.

During R.C.I.A. meetings, you'll discuss the great mysteries of life. You'll find a pastor and friends who have found satisfactory answers to these queries, and you may find that, as a bonus, you have found a new church home.

From then on, you'll have companionship, spiritual support and encouragement as you progress, with your Church community along the lifetime journey into faith.

Advent

While the secular world rushes around in a frenzy, preparing for Christmas, many Christians recall the reason for the great celebration by observing the season of Advent. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends at sundown on Christmas Eve.

Advent, ( from the Latin word "adventus", meaning coming or arrival ) is a time of prayer, fasting and penance, similar to Lent, but not as structured. It commemorates the first coming of Christ into the world as a baby, and also looks forward to his second coming, as King of Kings, at the end of time.

Scripture readings during Advent include passages from the Old Testament which prophesy the coming of the Messiah:

" But you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days." Micah 5:2

The readings also feature passages from the New Testament which promise that Jesus will return to earth in the future.

"There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." Luke 21: 25-28

The first clear historical reference to an Advent season was in the sixth century, in the Gelasian Sacramentary ( AD 750 ) but the times and practices of its observance varied in different areas. Presently, Advent is not celebrated in Eastern churches, although the people observe a long fast before Christmas.

During the Reformation, in an effort to distance themselves from Roman Catholic practices, many Protestant churches de-emphasized traditional feasts and seasons. However today, perhaps in an effort to counteract the excesses of secular celebrations, many reformed churches are rediscovering the richness and value of the tradition.

In the Roman Catholic faith, the First Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year. The traditional vestment color is violet or purple, except on the third Sunday which is known as Gaudete (Latin: rejoice) Sunday. On that day, the color is pink or rose to signify joy that the Savior's birth is near.

During the Advent season, special hymns are sung, such as the sixteenth century French hymn:

"O come, divine Messiah!
The world in silence waits the day
When hope shall sing its triumph,
And sadness flee away."

The Advent wreath has become a well-known symbol to mark the passage of time as Christmas approaches. Four candles, three purple and one pink are arranged in a circle on a base of evergreen boughs. One large, white candle, the "Christ candle", is placed in the center of the circle. On each Sunday before Christmas, a new candle is lit, the pink on the third Sunday of Advent.

At Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, as the bells chime and the Christmas carols burst forth, the four candles shine forth with the large white one aglow in the center of the circle, as a sign that Jesus has arrived.

It's useful to reflect that, every year, whether the cards are sent, whether the gifts are purchased, whether or not it snows on cue, Christmas always arrives. It will be the same with the second coming of Christ, it will surely arrive whether we are ready or not.

Advent is a time when Christians attempt to ensure that we will all be ready, for both of these important occasions.

Signs of the apocalypse

The Oxford English Dictionary defines apocalypse as "a terrible event in which everything is destroyed". In Christian circles, the term has come to signify climactic events while will occur at the end of time. At the culmination of a series of disastrous events, Jesus Christ will return to earth, to judge humanity, punish the wicked and reward the virtuous.

One day, about 30 A.D., on the Mount of Olives, Jesus Himself answered the Apostles' query about the signs which would herald the end the age and proclaim His imminent return. These are the occurrences He prophesied:

* "Beware that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying 'I am the Messiah' and they will lead many astray". Matthew 24: 4-5 (NRSV) .

There have been many false messiahs. Since the beginning of the twentieth century alone, the world has witnessed:

(a)Jim Jones, (1931-1978), who organized a mass murder and suicide ceremony for his cult members at Jonestown, Guyana.

(b) Marshall Applewhite, (1931-1997), leader of the Heaven's Gate cult. The group committed suicide in hopes of being taken up by a space ship which they believed was hiding behind the comet Hale-Bop.

(c) Sun Myung Moon, (1920- ), founder of the Unification Church.

(d) David Koresh, (1959-1993), leader of the Branch Davidians.

There have been many other false messiahs. I have only listed a few who are most well-known. A quick hunt using "Google" or any search engine will provide the names and details of numerous others.

* And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars..." Matthew 24: 6 (NRSV)

In the twentieth century, the world has witnessed World Wars 1 and 2, as well as many other regional conflicts. Between 35 to 40 million soldiers died in battle during this one- hundred-year period.

Conflicts continue to rage in Syria, Afghanistan and some African nations. More troubling yet, rumors of war between Western nations and nuclear powers such as Pakistan, Iran and North Korea continue to escalate. As more and more nations acquire weapons of mass destruction, it seems only a matter of time until some rogue nation acts irresponsibly, attacks a perceived enemy, and inadvertently sets off World War III.

* "...there will be famines..." Matthew 24: 7 (NRSV)

The number of people on the brink of starvation will reach a record high of 1.02 billion - or one-sixth of the global population, in 2009, the United Nations Food Organization predicts. Although enough food is produced to feed everyone on the planet, we have not yet all learned to love our neighbors as ourselves and share our resources.

* "... and earthquakes in various places..." Matthew 24:7 (NRSV)

According to records kept since about 1900, about 17 major earthquakes (7.0 - 7.9 on the Richter Scale) and one great earthquake (8.0 or above) are expected in any given year.

* "Then many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another." Matthew 24: 10 (NRSV)

As I looked around church last weekend, I saw a vast preponderance of gray and balding heads. Members of the younger generation were conspicuously absent. To today's youth, church attendance is definitely "uncool".

The lack of unity among Christians is a scandal, not to mention the hatred existing between Christians and members of other faiths. How can religious individuals claim to honor the Creator, yet harbor such ill will towards His children, who feel sincerely called to follow another faith tradition?

Jesus foresaw this sad situation more than 2,000 years ago.

* "And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray." Matthew 24:11 (NRSV)

There are too many to list here. A few that spring to mind: Edgar Cayce, Jimmy Swaggart, Jim Bakker, Jean Dixon, L. Ron Hubbard, Benny Hinn, and Sun Myung Moon.

* "And because of the increase in lawlessness, the love of many will grow cold". Matthew 24:12

Surely the strongest love imaginable is that of a mother for her baby. Yet, since Roe v. Wade, 48 million babies have been aborted by their mothers in the United States. Coldness, indeed!

The legal union of a man and a woman in marriage is no longer the norm in large segments of North American society. Many are trying out a variety of relationships, natural and unnatural, in so-called "common-law" couplings.

 Children and youth, lacking stable roots and home lives, are seeking security by joining gangs. Lawlessness of all types, by younger and younger criminals is one of the more tragic results of the breakdown of family values.

* "This good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world". Matthew 24: 14

Due to recent advances in communication technology, it is almost certain that the story of Jesus has been heard by nearly every person on earth. It is the duty of every Christian congregation to support their missionaries with prayers and funding so that the message is reinforced and nurtured. In this way the seeds of faith will grow, and Christianity will continue to spread.

 It appears that the criteria set forth by Jesus for the advent of the apocalypse has been accomplished. Yet, the Apostles, two thousand years ago, expected Christ to return within their lifetime. The date of His return is an enigma, a puzzle. We cannot know the hour or the day, and maybe it's just as well. Our best plan is to lead a good life and follow His advice:

"Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming". Matthew 24:42

Jesus Christ: his Gospel at a glance

The literal meaning of the word "gospel" is "good news". The Gospels usually refer to the four books of the New Testament, those written by the four evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The gospels tell us the good news that Jesus came to earth, to live and die and atone for the sins of humanity.

(A) Because of Jesus' suffering and death, humans can once again enter heaven.

Adam and Eve, our first parents had a very close relationship with God. He walked and talked to them daily in the Garden of Eden. He gave them a perfect place to live, and dominion over all of creation. To test their love and loyalty, God gave them one restriction. They were not to eat the fruit of a certain tree. When they disobeyed, they and their descendants were punished.

Our first parents and their descendants lost their home in the garden and their privileged status as close friends of the Creator. The gates of heaven were closed. However, God promised to send a Savior someday to reopen the gates of Paradise. Jesus was the promised Savior.

Because the sin of Adam and Eve was an offense against an infinite God, no human was great enough to atone for it. Jesus is God, the Second Person of Blessed Trinity. Because He is Divine, His suffering and death were sufficient to atone not only for the sin of Adam and Eve but also for all the sins humanity would ever commit . Because he was also human, Jesus could offer this sacrifice in the name of all humanity.

Through the merits of Jesus' suffering and death, the gates of heaven are open to humanity once more.

(B) God wishes to establish a close relationship with His people once more.

Being all-wise, God knew that people would find it difficult to love a Being they did not know. Jesus took on human form and came to earth to show us what God is like. Through healing the sick, Jesus showed God's love and compassion. Through seeking out and spending time with sinners, He showed God's desire to lead everyone to heaven. Through many miracles, He showed God's infinite power. Jesus provided us with a human image of God, so we could love and relate to Him more readily.

(C) Jesus established the Church to guide His followers to heaven.

Jesus stayed on earth only thirty-three years. Yet He did not set His followers adrift when He returned to His Father. He established the Church which would guide His followers until the end of the world.

"And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound also in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Matt. 16: 18-20

These, then, are some of the items of good news contained in the Gospels. During the first century following Jesus' death, four of His followers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, were inspired to write accounts of His life and work, so that future generations would have access to accurate information about Him. These fascinating records of the life, death and deeds of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, may be found in the book we know as the Bible.

St. Peregrine, patron saint of cancer victims

                 Do not be afraid of tomorrow; for God is already there. ~Author Unknown

Peregrine Laziosi, "The Cancer Saint", knew from personal experience how frightening it can be to suffer from this life-threatening disease. He was only twelve hours away from having his leg amputated when he experienced a miraculous healing. But let us begin at the beginning...

Peregrine was born into a wealthy family at Forli, in northern Italy in 1260 AD. His parents, and almost the whole city at that time were staunchly anticlerical. His father was a fiercely-loyal member of a political faction which was openly defiant to the Pope, Clement V. As Peregrine grew, he followed in his father's footsteps and joined the same anti-papal group.

After one particular uprising, the Pope sent a special representative, Philip Benizi, (later to become a saint himself) to Forli, to try to bring the divided community together. As Philip started to preach to the crowd, Peregrine ran up with a group of troublemakers, approached Philip and slapped him forcefully across the cheek. Philip said nothing, but silently turned his other cheek to the young man for a second blow. Peregrine was stunned by this reaction.

After a period of reflection, he returned to Philip to apologize. As the conversation between the two progressed, Peregrine came to see the logic, and to recognize the ring of truth and authenticity behind Philip's words. He was also impressed by the older man's great faith. Their acquaintance led to Peregrine's conversion and he joined the Catholic faith.

After this, he didn't feel like spending time with his friends anymore. He concentrated on prayer and on developing his spiritual life. It was reported that the Virgin Mary appeared to him and instructed him to go to Siena and join the monastic order called "The Servants of Mary", also known as the Servites. He did so. Coincidentally, the Superior who received him into the order was St. Philip Benizi.

In Siena, Peregrine studied for the priesthood and was ordained. He did many acts of penance to atone for his past transgressions. One of the penances he chose was to remain standing whenever it was not necessary to sit down. It was said that he did not sit down for over thirty years.

Eventually, he was sent back to Forli to start a new Servite house there. In his home town, he became well-known for his powerful preaching and his holiness. He was especially devoted to those who were sick and those living in poverty.

Because of all the time spent standing, Peregrine developed varicose veins. The veins in his right leg ulcerated and eventually the limb became cancerous. The pain became more intense as the cancer progressed. Finally, the doctors could offer no more help and advised amputation of the leg. Surgery was scheduled for the following morning.

That evening, Peregrine dragged himself to a room where there was a large crucifix. Laying on the floor at its base, he spent many hours in prayer before finally dozing off into a fitful sleep. He dreamed or had a vision that Christ came down from the cross, stretched out his hand and gently touched the diseased leg. In the morning, the cancer was gone and the leg was completely normal.

Peregrine lived on for another twenty years. He gained the reputation of being an outstanding priest, preacher and confessor. Many miracles were reported through his ministry. He died in 1345 AD at the age of 85. His body still rests in the Servite church at Forli, Italy, where it is greatly honored by the people.

In 1609, Pope Paul V declared him blessed, and he was canonized in 1609 by Pope Benedict XIII.

Like St. Paul, St Peregrine was converted after a misspent youth, during which he struggled against the Church. However, also like St. Paul, he went on to become one of the greatest saints of his day.

A Prayer to Saint Peregrine for Sick Relatives and Friends
O great St. Peregrine, you have been called "The Mighty", "The Wonder Worker" because of the numerous miracles which you obtained from God for those who have turned to you in their need. For so many years, you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being.

You turned to God when the power of human beings could do no more, and you were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His cross to heal your affliction. I now ask God to heal these sick persons whom I entrust to you: (here mention their names).

Aided by your powerful intercession, I shall sing with Mary a hymn of gratitude to God for His great goodness and mercy. Amen.

Why did Jesus allow Judas to betray him?

Judas, like all of us, was a human being, and like all humans, he was subject to temptations. Again, like all of us. he had a choice. He could either give in to temptation or resist it.

The Bible relates that, when Judas was tempted to betray Jesus, he yielded. He went to the chief priests and elders of the Jewish people and offered to help them arrest Jesus in return for thirty pieces of silver.

God is all-knowing. Jesus, being God, knew that Judas would give in to the temptation to betray Him. Had this not been the case, He would have devised some other means of putting Himself into the hands of His enemies.

Jesus willingly accepted death on the cross in order to atone for the sins of all humanity, past, present and future. He made the supreme sacrifice because of the love He has for each and every one of us.

It is difficult to understand Judas' motive. Was he really so in need of money, that He would betray the Man whom he had followed around Israel for three years, the Man whose many miracles he had witnessed with his own eyes?

It must be remembered that at the time of Jesus, Israel had been conquered by Imperial Rome. Every Jew, including Judas, were hoping for a warrior Messiah, one who would battle the Romans and free the Jewish people from foreign domination. It must have disappointed Judas when Jesus went about preaching love and forgiveness.

Did Judas perhaps hope to push Him into displaying His power? If Jesus was delivered into Roman hands and threatened with a shameful death, would He finally rise up and throw the enemies out of Israel?

Also, Judas had seen Jesus miraculously slip away when a crowd in the temple tried to stone Him. (John 8:59). Perhaps he thought that Jesus would do that again, and not really be in any danger.

Betraying Jesus for money did not seal Judas' fate. Peter had also been disloyal when he denied knowing Jesus, not once, but three times. The difference was in the attitudes of the two men after they had sinned.

Peter repented and was forgiven. In contrast, Judas doubted Jesus' love, compassion and power. He gave in to despair and went out and hanged himself. Had he repented, he likely would have also, like Peter, have been forgiven.

Judas was in fact, a weak character. He yielded to temptation when he betrayed Jesus and again when he failed to seek forgiveness. Jesus did not allow Judas to betray Him, Judas chose to do so. Free will is a gift God bestows on all His children. How we choose to use that free will determine our eternal fate.

Essential qualities for Church leaders

One of the most difficult and demanding vocations on earth is leading a Church community. The person called to do so is attempting to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, the Son of God. However, (s)he lacks the benefit of the Lord's divine attributes, such as perfect wisdom and limitless love. Nevertheless, God will supply all the help necessary when asked in sincere and humble prayer.

Here are some qualities to which church leaders should aspire:
* They must have a genuine love for God and a vibrant prayer life. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind." Matt. 22:37.

* They must have a genuine love for his fellow humans. "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Matt. 22:39.

* They must have an exemplary private life, with no hint of scandal. They should serve as role models for the congregation, especially those weaker souls who will always do better if they have an example on which to model their own behavior.

* They must know the Bible thoroughly and be able to teach and interpret it for others. They need a firm belief that the Bible is the Word of God, and a conviction that its teaching is just as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago. God does not change, nor does human nature.

* They must be able to apply Biblical principles to present-day issues and situations. They should prepare their sermons with a Bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other. They will enable their congregations to recognize issues that are against the spirit or the letter of the God's laws, and encourage them to take action to rectify the matters in question.

* They should not hesitate to condemn wrongdoing. After being sure their information is correct, they should condemn sin and evil wherever they see it, while always encouraging the offender or groups involved to reform and repent.

* They must be unselfish and energetic in their efforts to win souls for Christ. Whether called upon to celebrate Baptisms or funerals, or rites and ceremonies in between, they should prepare thoroughly and conduct the services to the best of their ability, always directing attention to the Trinity, and not to themselves.

* They should have a special love and devotion for children and young people, as Jesus did when he walked among us. Children are the future of the Church on earth. Children are deserving of a special place in heaven. The responsibility for their education and formation as Christians is partially the responsibility of the Church. The leaders must embrace this responsibility willingly and effectively.

* They should be able to delegate responsibility. As leaders, they are needed to preach, teach and conduct worship services. They cannot do everything themselves and do it all well. Other duties, such as finances, building maintenance, weekly bulletins, and guidance of parish or congregational groups should be managed by trusted members of the Church.

* Leaders are also responsible for marginal groups in the congregation and in the community, such as the sick, the homeless, the prisoners, the hungry, and all those whom Jesus would befriend if he walked the streets of towns and cities today.

Since one person's time and energy are limited, leaders must see to it that others are trained and equipped to perform these works of charity in the name of the Church congregation. Even Jesus needed the help of his disciples to carry out all the good works in his day.

The leader who carries out all these responsibilities and tasks well, at the end of his life will gain a great reward. Jesus will say: "Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." Matt. 25: 34.

No one could hope for more.

Could Hitler be in heaven?

It would be challenging to find a human being more evil than Adolf Hitler (1889-1945) during his life on earth. He planned to exterminate all the Jews, Gypsies, Slavs, homosexuals, communists and other "undesirables" and "decadents" in death camps during the Second World War (1939-1945).

During the infamous "Holocaust", he issued orders which resulted in the deaths of about 6 million Jews, 3 million Soviet prisoners of war, 3 million Polish Catholics, 700,000 Serbians, 240,000 Gypsies, 80,000 German political or religious opponents, 70,000 German handicapped citizens, 12,000 homosexuals and 2,500 Jehovah's Witnesses.

On April 30, 1945, Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker in Berlin. And now? It would be easy to mentally consign Adolf Hitler to hell for all eternity in punishment for the wickedness he displayed during life.

 But wait, God might have granted even such as he a last- minute chance to repent.

Reflect on the scene on Mount Calvary, on a Friday afternoon about 1,500 years ago. Three crosses stand outlined against a dark, threatening sky. On each cross hangs a dying man, victims of the Roman mode of execution. On the centre cross, a crudely-made sign has been affixed, "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews".

One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you shall be with me in paradise." Luke 23: 39-43

Jesus honours deathbed, or last-minute repentance.

Who's to say that in the very last seconds of life, Hitler did not mentally tell God he was sorry? He was raised in a Catholic home, even though he seemed to abandon all religious precepts and practices later in life. Early training endures, even though it may be buried deeply. Only God knows what went on, if anything, between Adolf Hitler and God in those last moments of his earthly life.

Jesus has a word for us too, when we try to speculate on the ultimate destiny of Hitler or anyone else.

"Do not judge, so that you may not be judged". Matt. 7:1

Wise words from the Son of God echo down through the ages to people of all times. Human nature hasn't changed, we're still curious to know the news about the famous and infamous among us.

We needn't waste time wondering about the ultimate fate of Hitler or others who have shared this globe with us at one time or another. We'll never know the truth anyway, until we reach heaven and see who's already there.

Our sole task now is to live in such a way that we'll eventually get there ourselves. The others are in the hands of God, as indeed are we all.

Can a Christian believe both in Science and the Bible?

For believers, there can be no contradiction between faith in God and scientific discoveries. God is the Supreme Being, who had no beginning, and will have no end. He is all-powerful, all-wise, and all-mighty. God is love.

This perfect and infinite love found expression in the creation of universes and all within them. Humans have theorized the method by which our own universe came into being. They have dubbed it: "The Big Bang".

This theory could be perfectly true, or way off the mark. Only God was there. Only God knows for sure.

One area that is often viewed as conflicting, is the theory of evolution, versus the creation account in the Book of Genesis. Evolutionists believe that humans evolved from monkeys.

They contend that, over a period of thousands of years. one branch of the primate family began to walk upright, to become more and more intelligent, and to develop the ability to communicate. They continued to evolve, gaining additional intelligence and skills, until they became the first recognizable human beings.

Many Christians today can agree with many of the facts of evolution. The only stipulation we would add is that somewhere in the evolutionary process, God took two of these creatures, one male and one female, and breathed into each of them an immortal soul.

These were our first ancestors. We came from the earth, our physical bodies originated in the animal kingdom, but as children of God, we alone possess souls which will live forever. Our soul, our essence, the part of us that thinks and knows and loves, is eternal.  It will spend eternity in the home of God our Father: Heaven or in hell.

It is recognized by most mainline Churches today that the Bible, up until the time of Abraham, is largely legendary. There was no written language to record events. Stories were passed orally from generation to generation, probably around campfires during the long dark evenings in the camps of the nomadic tribes of Israel.

Bible scholars try to extract the nuggets of truths which these stories contain. In the Genesis story these are generally agreed to be : God breathed a soul into our first parents, elevating them forever above the beasts of the earth.

Subsequently. these first humans chose to disobey a rule they had been given. Because of their disobedience, they and their descendants are marked with the stain of original sin, are prone to fall easily into other actual sins, and are sorely in need of a Saviour to restore their right relationship with God.

Since God is the Creator of each matter that Science examines, there can be no discrepancy between scientific discoveries and religious faith. God is the Author, and He is gradually disclosing the secrets of His handiwork to humanity.

Dr. Francis Collins, director of the Human Genome Project, speaking to CNN from Rockville, Maryland, on April 6th., 2007, expressed his position in this way:

"I am a scientist and a believer, and I find no conflict between these world views...I have found there is a wonderful harmony in the complementary truths of science and faith. The God of the Bible is also the God of the genome. God can be found in the cathedral or in the laboratory. By investigating God's majestic and awesome creation, science can actually be a means of worship

Mary, the mother of Jesus

People belonging to the mainline Christian churches today, accept Mary, the young girl who lived in Nazareth, Israel, more than two thousand years ago, as the mother of Jesus. There is ample evidence from both tradition and scripture to verify her exalted position.

In the Gospels of Matthew and Luke she is specifically named as the woman giving birth to Jesus. In the Gospel of John, Jesus performed His first miracle at Mary's request when He changed water into wine at the wedding feast at Cana.

The author of John's Gospel also places Mary, Jesus' mother, at the foot of the cross on Calvary.

In the Gospel of Mark, when Jesus returned to His home village of Nazareth, the townsfolk had difficulty believing in His teachings and in the miracles He had been performing. "Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary...?" they asked. (Mark 6:3)

In "The Apostles' Creed", a statement of the articles of faith dating from the first centuries of the early Church, Mary is specifically named as Jesus' mother:

" I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary..."

Jesus is both true God and true man. His Divine nature comes from God ,His Father in heaven, and His human nature from Mary, who is indeed blessed among earthly women.

Evidence of life after death

It's never easy to say good-bye to a loved one. What if we didn't have to? My experience has indicated in a powerful way that bonds of affection formed in life are not broken by death, but only shrouded by in mists between two different stages of existence.

When my mother died in 1977, I was desolate. She had been my support, my encourager, and my best friend, especially during the previous eight years when I had been a single parent with four young children. She had taken them in when they were sick, nursed them through childhood illnesses, then shipped them home again. Because of her help, I was able to continue teaching and maintain a reasonably stable financial and emotional foundation for my family.

I know she worried about us during her final illness. She knew, better than I did at that time, the difficulty of raising four teenagers, three of them boys, within the context of a single-parent situation. And my chances of remarriage seemed slim. A forty-something mother, with four teens was hardly an appealing proposition for a prospective husband.

In addition, I worked for the Catholic school system. If I remarried without an annulment I would be excommunicated from my Church and lose my job. I believed that annulment from a marriage which had produced four children was impossible. My future prospects seemed glum, to say the least!

Could it have been pure coincidence that, within a year of Mother's death, I met a fine man who accepted us all with open arms and heart? He could not have been more suitable to be an exemplary husband and stepfather had mother hand-picked him herself. I am not, by any means, prepared to assert that she had not.

Even more remarkably, I was led to investigate the annulment process more closely. At The Second Vatican Council, new grounds had been established for declaring a marriage invalid. The advancement in knowledge of psychological problems caused additional grounds to be recognized. Fortuitously, my situation fit into the revised guidelines. Another happy coincidence, you think? I wonder.

And then there was the incident of the kilts.

I am not a particularly clothes-conscious individual. During the days when slacks were not appropriate attire for teachers, I acquired several kilts for school wear. They were warm and presentable when worn with a blazer and tailored blouse.

 One Sunday, I had repetitive urges to gather up the kilts for cleaning, even though they weren't really very dirty.

Usually, I waited until they were creased, with smudges that could be seen by a blind man at fifty paces, before taking such drastic action. However, all day the urges persisted and that evening I gathered them up. I dropped them off at the dry cleaners next morning on the way to school. They would be ready Wednesday afternoon after four.

Wednesday at school, during noon hour, I received a phone call, telling me that a beloved aunt, a sibling of my mother, had died unexpectedly in South River, a small town in Northern Ontario. We picked up the kilts that evening on the way out of town, cleaned, pressed, and ready to go.

Now, it's hard to believe that the Supreme Being would be overly concerned about my physical appearance at my aunt's funeral. However I know Mother would not have wanted her elder daughter to appear at a gathering of maternal relatives looking like Little Orphan Annie after a rough night. I'm firmly convinced she nudged me persistently into getting those outfits into shape for the upcoming family gathering. After all, time is a human invention to measure the passing of events on the earthly plane. The view from eternity must be all-encompassing. It would be just as easy to look forward as backward.

Death is a fact of life. If consciousness survives, in whatever form, those who precede us will no more forget us than we will forget them. I believe that, being close to the Source of all wisdom and love, they are in an ideal position to request and channel the help we need to successfully complete our own journey- enabling us to finally rejoin them in discovering and enjoying the greatest Mystery of all.

Origins: All Saints' Day and Halloween

In the early days, Christians would gather each year at the site of a martyr's death to commemorate his martyrdom. As time passed, there were group commemorations for martyrs who had all died on the same day.

During the persecution in the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the number of martyrs became so great, that a separate day could not be assigned to each of them, so between 300-400 A.D., the Church appointed a common day to honor them all. The day at that time was the first Sunday after Pentecost.

As the process of canonization was established, other saints were gradually added. Pope Gregory III,(731-741) consecrated a chapel in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome to all the saints, and he ordered the anniversary for November 1st. Pope Gregory IV (827-844) extended the November 1st. celebration to the whole Church.

All Saints' Day is still celebrated on November 1st. every year. On that day, many Christians remember everyone who is in heaven. Besides the canonized saints, there are many others whose names we've never heard. They have also led praiseworthy lives and deserve to be honored.

The vigil, or preceding day, seems to have been held as early as the feast itself. It was first referred to as "All Hallows' Eve", (hallowed meaning holy), or the evening before All Saints' Day. The name of the vigil has gradually evolved into "Halloween".

The seven deadly sins

A list of deadly sins was first catalogued in St. John Cassian (360-345 AD). The list was later refined and reduced to seven by Pope St. Gregory the Great ( 540-604 AD). These so-called sins are really underlying attitudes which cause individuals, and sometimes entire societies, to fall short of perfection.

Since none of us are sin-free, it is worthwhile to consider which of these attitudes we, as individuals or as a society, are harbouring. With focused and concerted effort these attitudes can be replaced over time. This can be done by actively practising the opposing virtue.

Here are a list of sins or attitudes which we need to overcome, both as individuals and as a society, and the opposing virtues which can replace these shortcomings.

PRIDE. This is the most serious of the seven. It is also known as hubris or vanity. It is having excessive belief in one's own worth or ability and refusing to recognize the presence or the grace of almighty God. It was the sin of our first parents, and it led to the downfall of Lucifer. The opposing virtue to pride is humility.

Modern examples of pride are evident in self-assured politicians, movie stars, and strong nations who attempt to force their way of life and ideals on weaker societies.

ENVY. This is the insatiable desire for something someone else has, which a person perceives himself to be lacking. It does not refer to material goods but has a more general quality as when someone envies the talent, attractiveness, ability, skill, or status of another. It extends as far as wishing evil upon the other who has the desired quality. The opposing virtue is kindness.

Today we encounter envy in those who sacrifice friends and family life in order to climb the corporate ladder, or in the obsession to "keep up with the Joneses" at all costs.

GLUTTONY. It is overindulgence or over-consumption of anything to the point of waste. It usually refers to food, or drink especially alcoholic beverages. It manifests itself in hoarding provisions and refusing to share what we have with others. The opposing virtue is temperance.

Gluttony is evident in our world today in the epidemic of obesity, alcoholism, smoking and drug addition.

LUST. Lust is the inordinate thoughts and desires for pleasures of the body. They can lead to sexual addiction, fornication, adultery, rape, incest and other sexual perversions. The opposing virtue is chastity.

Lust in society today is evident in the abundance of pornography, traffic on Internet pornographic sites, sexually explicit material in movies and on TV and in the tendency for short-term relationships instead of a permanent commitment in marriage.

ANGER. This sin is also known as wrath or fury. It occurs when an individual spurns love and instead entertains inordinate and uncontrolled feelings of hatred. It leads to acts of murder, assault, and revenge. Suicide is the ultimate act of anger directly inwardly, a final rejection of God's gifts. The opposing virtue is patience.

Anger in today's world is evident in wars, gang feuds, road rage, race riots, and in the many incidences of violence in contemporary society.

GREED. This is the desire for material wealth and gain and ignoring the spiritual realm. It is also known as avarice or covetousness. It is practised as betrayal or treason for money, bribery, hoarding material objects, theft, or miserliness. The opposing virtue is charity.

Greed is obvious today in the crimes for gain which fill the pages of our newspapers, smuggling, income tax evasion, the proliferation of lotteries and casinos and gouging practices by dishonest politicians, lawyers, unions and governments.

SLOTH. This is the avoidance of physical or spiritual work. It is a sin of laziness or indifference, a failure to utilize one's gifts and talents. It can be characterized as an unwillingness to act or care in situations where action and caring are clearly indicated, such as helping someone in distress, caring for aged parents, or attending church on the Sabbath. The opposing virtue is zeal or diligence.

Today, students who fail to study diligently, healthy workers who call in sick, those who find excuses to avoid volunteering for worthwhile causes may all be guilty of sloth.

Over the centuries, human nature hasn't changed much. The weaknesses against which the early Christians struggled are still much in evidence today. How can they be overcome?

They can be conquered today as they always have been, by conscious practice of the opposing virtues. Being human, we'll never attain perfection in this life, but we should continue to make a vigorous effort to improve as long as our sojourn on earth lasts

The value of quiet reflection

Life has a way of becoming too busy. We rush around preparing for Christmas, never stopping to think why we are celebrating. We become involved with our children's activities, caring for aging parents, keeping the house sparkling clean or trying to advance in our chosen careers. As the adage says: "We rush around like chickens with our heads cut off."

It was the same 2,000 years ago in Jesus' time. When He visited the home of His friends, Mary, Martha and their brother Lazarus in Bethany, He was welcomed warmly. Since He traveled on foot, He was probably tired and hungry when He arrived.

The little family welcomed Jesus at the door. After He was seated comfortably, Martha rushed off to the kitchen to prepare an elegant meal for their guest. Mary, on the other hand, sat down at Jesus' feet, anxious to listen to His words.

As time passed. Martha became annoyed. Here she was, working hard to make a delicious supper, while her sister just sat and listened to Jesus. It wasn't fair! At last she was upset enough to take her problem to Jesus.

"She came to Him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Luke 10: 40). Martha probably expected Jesus to tell Mary to get up immediately, and go and help her sister, but Jesus' answer was surprising.

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10: 41-42). Jesus implied that what Martha was doing was good but what Mary chose to do was better.

In our day, it is good to prepare for Christmas, to care for our families, to keep our homes clean and to work diligently at our jobs, but it more important to take time out and listen to what God has to say to us.

After all. our earthly concerns will be relevant for only a few brief years. Our relationship with God affects where we will spend eternity. It's a matter of having our priorities in order.

We cannot sit at Jesus' feet today, like Mary did, and listen to His words. How does God communicate with us today, in 2012?

God communicates today in many ways: through His words in the Bible, through sermons at the church, through nature, through the words of our friends, and through events in our lives. However, if we don't stop and reflect on these things soon after they occur, we will miss the message God wants us to hear.

Like Mary, we need to sit down, open our hearts to the message God is imparting, and reflect on it. The Bible tells us how to go about it.

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

Instead of rushing around like headless chickens, we need to stop frequently, quiet both mind and body for a few minutes, and reflect on the word of God, and the events taking place in our lives.. God may have an important message today which He is anxious for us to hear. He needs our cooperation.

Biography: St. James the Greater, Apostle

Little is known about the youth of St. James. His parents were Zebedee, a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee, and Salome. The family likely lived in one of the villages on the shore of the lake, and James was probably older than his brother John, because in Biblical accounts his name is always mentioned first.

The family must have been moderately well off, since Zebedee had hired men working for him. (Mark 1:20) As sons of the household, James and John would have had an elementary Jewish education.

The appellation he was given, "James the Greater", could refer to the fact that he was taller than "James the Less", another Apostle, or to the fact that he was especially close to Jesus, having been chosen, along with Peter and John, to witness special miracles.

The Gospels record that James and his brother John were called by Jesus while mending fishing nets with their father on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Such was the mystical magnetism of Jesus that they immediately rose, left everything and became followers of the Lord. (Mat 3:18)

As James followed Jesus around the towns and villages of Israel for three years, he listened to His words, he witnessed many miracles, and he was named as one of Jesus' closest companions, the Apostles. During that time, James would have developed strong virtues of faith and commitment.

Jesus gave James and John the nickname "Boanerges" ("Sons of Thunder") (Mark 3:18) possibly because of their loud and passionate preaching.

Even among the Apostles, James held a special place. He, John and Peter were the only ones chosen to go to the bedside of Jairus' daughter, and watch as Jesus raised her from the dead. (Mark 5: 35-42)

The same three were chosen to accompany Jesus up a high mountain to witness His transfiguration (Mat 17:1-8).  Still, James was slow to grasp the spiritual nature of Jesus' kingdom.

As the group traveled to Jerusalem for the last time, he joined his brother John and their mother Salome as she asked Jesus if her sons could sit at His right and left hand when He entered His kingdom. Jesus seized the occasion to teach them that whoever wanted to be great must become the servant and slave of the others. (Mat 20: 20-28)

On the night before His death, Jesus chose the three again, Peter, James and John, to accompany Him into the Garden of Gethsemani, where He underwent agony as He pondered the events of Good Friday. (Mat 26:36-38)

Sadly, James was too cowardly to be present at the crucifixion. He needed the wisdom and courage imparted by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to fullfil the "Great Commission", given just before Jesus ascended into Heaven.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Mat 28:19-20)

There is a tradition that St. James went to preach the Gospel in Spain before returning to Jerusalem and martyrdom.

Acts 12:2 tells us that James was one of the first martyrs of the Church. King Herod Agrippa I ordered him beheaded in 44 A.D. in an early persecution of the Church.

James is the patron saint of hatmakers, rheumatoid sufferers, and laborers. His feast day is July 25th.

References:

1. The Holy Bible NRSV

2. New Advent

St. James the Greater

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08279b.htm