Blessed Giaccardo July 2011

BLESSED

GIACCARDO



We continue to read the spiritual diary of Blessed Timothy which extended over his whole life and listed the many movements of grace - or of temptation - he experienced. By this time it is October of 1917 and he has begun to work with Fr. Alberione and his young helpers. The war clouds are gathering over Europe but, if he was aware of that, it doesn't show in his notes. His thought is on "the one thing necessary," on his duties and on his relationship with Our Lady and the Divine Master.


Lord Jesus, what a distracted individual I was during my vacation! I had looked forward to an increase in piety, in zeal, in my spirit of sacrifice . . . and instead, O Jesus, what a disaster! I'm too lazy and superficial. I don't pray enough and, above all, my pride is ruining everything.


O Jesus in the Eucharist, O crucified Jesus, take me, press me to your heart. O Mary, my mamma, my Queen of Apostles, with my heart split in two with sorrow, with my soul and my spirit profoundly humiliated, I throw myself into your arms. Have pity on me, have pity on the souls entrusted to me, have pity on the vocation that you above all have obtained for me from Jesus because you love me so much. Split my pride, impress your humility on me, I appeal to you: make me small and humiliated at the feet of everyone. 0 Mary, that I may become holy first of all, then acquire a spirit of sacrifice to enable me wear myself out for God, for souls, for the Apostolate of the Press.


A few days later he writes:


The center of my spiritual struggle will always be my weekly confession while Holy Communion will be Jesus making me part of him to receive his life and not live any more my life. To this end I will direct also the daily Visit, the Stations of the Cross and all our devotions especially those concerning Mary. At least four times a day I will recall the Holy Communion of the morning by a spiritual communion and like St Paul I will try to have Jesus living in me by asking: what would Jesus and Mary do now?


As regards purity, I will be careful not to touch myself or the boys unnecessarily and I will limit my talks to them on the moral evil of impurity.


I will make all my great decisions - as I do already - as if I were to die shortly afterwards and I will not fail to meditate on the Last Things during the monthly retreat.


Every time I have the opportunity, I will humble myself and mortify myself and my life must be a life of humiliation and the cross. I will do this so as to be a victim for Jesus, for our group and for the Apostolate of the Press.


Later, he reflects on his daily life with Fr. Alberione and the other young people. It was not all that easy. He came from the seminary where everything was organized, where bells marked the different part of the day . . . and was = literally = catapulted into a totally different situation where you did what you could when you could, but rarely at the time required because the work was growing and jobs had to be finished at any cost. Moreover in the seminary there was a rather silent and sacred atmosphere, but under Fr. Alberione the atmosphere was full of youthful zest and a growing sense of accomplishment as other young people came along and the orders for parish bulletins and other publications increased. Blessed Timothy took a while to adapt himself to all this and it seems that the Founder gave him a fairly rough time. So he writes:


O Jesus, what am I doing in this House in which I am more a cause of ruin than a constructive element? I put myself entirely into the hands of the Theologian (= Fr Alberione) whom you, Jesus, have given me as a guide. I give over all myself in full openness, so as to receive and be formed entirely in the attitude and character which you, my Savior, desire to stamp on you work. I promise you a perfect obedience. I will do what you want and not get involved in anything else and I will do it with total love. I will study what is given me to study and will remain open to the method suggested as you wish.


With the others I will take my place as a normal member, learning what I can from them and giving them whatever I have to give, just as you, O Jesus, desire, Will I have to take a class? I will do it willingly. Will I have to polish shoes? I will do that just as willingly. I want to keep in myself and spread around me an air of harmony and of the greatest charity. So in the organization I will be life, not death. I will act, speak, counsel and help as an active, holy and true member. Finally, I want to live your life, O Jesus, as St. Paul did, live your life of holiness like him "that Christ may live in me."


O Jesus give me opportunities of humbling myself, of mortifying myself, of being a true victim to enlighten the world and make it holier with the Good Press. Sprinkle the work with sacrifices and crown it with martyrdom" (perhaps he had in mind his daily experiences!).


O my Guardian Angel, the most Holy Trinity, St. Paul, help me remain in this House to which my mind and heart are totally dedicated, in this House where you want me to live,and help me to be a member of it after your own heart, to help the Theologian and all the family. Help me to be a very good apostle of the Good Press. God calls me not to baptize but to evangelize (words of St. Paul in 1 Cor.1,17)


Much later he recounts how the Founder foresaw the eventual development of the work in terms of both men and women members. And he adds an interesting comment under the heading: Individual advantages>


The apostles of the Good Press will acquire the merits:
• of Religious because of their vows;
• of Priests for their direct work for souls;
• of Laity who work for Christian and social causes
Love of God and of souls will increase these merits and
their holiness will abound. How pleasant and great it is to
consume our energies for the Good Press!

(continued)

God Helps Those...

God helps those...
who are ready to help Him!



It's Sunday!


July 31 - XVIII Sunday in Ordinary Time


Today's Gospel by Matthew is found also in Mark, Luke and John. In John's Chapter 6 it precedes the dramatic encounter between Jesus and some of those he had previously fed, who come looking for more, but are told rather brusquely that it's in their real interests to eat not just ordinary bread but the bread he will give them, i.e. his flesh and blood!


This development is foreshadowed in the First Reading from Isaiah: corn, oil, milk and bread are good and indeed rather essential things but. . . there is something even better and in this connection, God has made a covenant or freewill agreement to provide this something better which will be His general care for all His creation and in our special case the holy Eucharist.


The Responsorial Psalm - as usual - is a gracious repetition of the idea in the Reading: the Lord is kind, just and loving.


The Second Reading finds our holy Patron at his exuberant best in the Letter to the Romans. This was not written (as so many other Letters were) under the stress of some challenge or buoyed up by some unexpected good news. It shows instead the Apostle's sober but yet enthusiastic conviction of the all-embracing care for all His creation made visible in his Son, "Christ Jesus our Lord.


Finally, the Gospel makes two points. The first we have just seen: the incessant love and care of the Creator for every smallest aspect of His creation. But is this all? No, God has given each of us more than sufficient time, energy and talents and he expects us to use them if at all possible. The Lord did not need the five loaves and two fish to provide a meal for the huge crowd but he wanted to ensure human cooperation with his action and so he used them. "God helps those who help themselves" is an old and valid proverb. We begin life as helpless infants but it is very important not to remain infants all our lives. One of the least-helpful remarks is: " Somebody should do something about this." Reply: YOU DO IT!!

August 2011 Concord Magazine

Best viewed in Google Chrome. You can view the magazine in another window (with larger print) by pressing the icon in the far right hand corner of the gray border of this post.

July 31, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Sunday, July 31
XVII SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Is 55: 1-3
Rm 8: 35, 37-39
Mt. 14: 13-21

Our daily actions must have three conditions to be saintly: * a right intention,* fidelity to common duties * a heart eager to do them (VMC 671).

Hmmm… “eager heart”? Not so easy, is it? Very well, let’s have a least the first two conditions (and also remember that what we FEEL-or don’t feel—is relatively unimportant.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Anita Ghirlanda PD (2007)

Treasure in the Field...

/ have found the treasure in the field ... but have I sold everything else in it's favor, i.e. am I TOTALLY of the Institute or still toying with other devotions?



July 24 - XVII Sunday in Ordinary Time


St. Matthew does it again! He give us not one but three ways of seeing his teaching - or, better, the teaching of our Divine Master.


"Treasure buried in a field . . ." What might that mean? Well, apparently, it makes good sense. Palestinian houses did not have very thick walls and a thief could easily "break through and steal." The remedy was to take one's valuables and bury them in a secret spot. All well and good and, presumably, the burial was done at night but this had the disadvantage that a) someone might be quietly observing the interment or b) the one doing the burial might in the light of day not be quite sure where he had dug the hole or c) in times of persecution or for other reasons be driven out of his homes and often never returnor, if he did, could not find his property. Not to mention that someone else might find the treasure by accident and then (as the Gospel tells us)"he sells all he has and buys that field." So there were problems even then with banking!


And now, to get back to the First Reading and the real message of this Sunday: the young Solomon has worked hard to carry out the commands of God and God is pleased and asks him what reward he would like. Solomon with great maturity and judgment asks for the wisdom to govern the people properly arid God is even more pleased. So edifying is this Reading that we don't want to think ahead and recall that poor Solomon in his older years, and in spite of his vast wisdom, yielded to the temptation of pagan women and ended his days under a cloud - to say the least. But this is to anticipate. For now we see that the Responsorial Psalm reads like something the young Solomon might have said in response to the Lord's warm commendation. "Lord, I love your commands." Don't we all . . . and yet the cedars of Lebanon have come crashing down all over the Church in recent decades, good men who in their youth had nothing only the best intentions and wanted nothing more than to serve God and serve their people. Let us pray for them and especially for those who have entered eternal life.


The key to the Second Reading is partly in the first line: "All things work for good for those who love God." But only partly because we must also be "called according to His purpose etc."


Here we see Paul underlining the supreme freedom of God in creating all of us and in calling us - in particular calling us Catholics and, in more detail, us Institute people. It is very easy to see our life as something which had to be . . . but for God nothing "has to be." He and He alone made us what we are.


Finally, the Gospel makes the point that anything that is not God or related to Him must be jettisoned at any cost so as to obtain and enjoy "the pearl of great price." Our exam should always include the question: have I found the treasure in the field (or the pearl) but am reluctant to abandon everything in its favor - in our case the "pearl" is the Institute.


In 1992, following a meeting of the Synod of Bishops, the Holy Father issued an Apostolic Exhortation PASTORES DABO VOBIS ("I will give you shepherds after my own heart" (Jer.3:15). Though he is speaking of vocations to the priesthood, much of what he says applies to us also as these excerpts will show.

Even EVIL Has a Place in God's Plan

Even EVIL has a place in God's plan
and He will explain everything at the
Final Judgment - see you then!



July 17 - XVI Sunday in Ordinary Time


Another "seed" liturgy - you wonder if the Lord told both parables within roughly the same time-frame as he looked across the fields, saw men doing what they did every year (the good seed, of course!) and effortlessly composed his immortal teaching. More likely, Matthew brings them together to suit his purposes.


Whatever about that, we are confronted here with a divine richness: not just one parable, but three!


But first, as usual, the First Reading which is a beautiful quote from the Book of Wisdom, getting away from the grubby details of sowers and reapers and concentrating on the sublime and supreme power of God Who has everything completely under control to such a degree that He can allow evil to exist and indeed "give his children grounds for hope" and "permit repentance for their sin." We can doubt the power and love of God but that does not diminish it. When He wishes and as He wishes . . . things happen and happen in total justice and love. Only at the Last Judgment will you and I appreciate the truth of this statement when we hear the Judge explain even the most complicated situations and when we hear our faith in Him rewarded.


The Responsorial Psalm -as always - confirms the thought in the First Reading. It is interesting to see the emphasis on the power and wisdom and love of God in this part of the liturgy which is expressed in a different way later.


Continuing our reading from Romans, St. Paul in the Second Reading gives a thought parallel to the thought in Reading No 1 but he expresses it in terms of the "Spirit" - perfectly in line, of course because God is essentially a Spirit and He is in your life and mine in that context. Certainly we do not understand how this works but with great joy we recognize in our lives the constant inspirations of the Spirit and can only hope and pray that we do not spoil too many of them!


The Gospel, as we see, is not one Parable but three, the main one being the first. A significant line in that context is the householder's wise statement: "let them grow together until harvest-time." This parallels the line in the First Reading: "Your mastery over all things makes you lenient to all" and it raises the perennial question: how can God make evil grow so great at times and evil people grow prosperous? The simplest answer is that in God's work everything has a place, even things and people that are evil. God does not tolerate them because they are evil but a) because He never gives up on even the most depraved human soul and b) because they form a material part of His plan which would not be quite complete without them and for this reason they must be left play their part. The goodness of God is equaled only by His infinite wisdom and foresight. We thank Him for - literally - making us a part of His plan we could not deserve and we continue to pray for our modern world which has more than its share of weeds! (The other 2 parables refer possibly to the uncertain condition of the Church when Matthew wrote and so are aimed at sustaining the faith of his readers. We need quite a bit of sustaining ourselves in these difficult days as we look out at the suffering Church.)

Do We Ever Stop to Thank God for...

Do we ever stop to thank God for
having been born in a Catholic
home and for having persevered
when so many have dropped out?



July 10 - XV Sunday in Ordinary Time

A special Sunday for Pauline? Can we say this? Well, why not? It's all about the Word of God which is the aspect of the Catholic Apostolate to which Paulines devote their time and energies!


We don't usually pay much attention to the Opening Prayer,preferring to wait for the message of the Reading(s) and Gospel But this Sunday "the light of truth" mentioned cannot be misread and this light comes most frequently from hearing, The concept of "Word" is found from the very first pages of Genesis where God "says" or "speaks" Creation into existence.


So we are not surprised when the WORD of God, the Divine Word appears on earth to inaugurate the second Creation or the new Creation. The First Reading points out that just as there is no waste in Nature when the law of God is respected, so also his Word will never go forth without accomplishing what He wishes.


The Responsorial Psalm expresses the same theme: the seed - the word of God - is never wasted when it falls on good ground. That, of course, is the problem. Where can we find this ground? And the answer has to be: let's continue sowing, sowing, sowing as long as we have breath in our body and leave the final result to the Lord of the Harvest.


In the Second Reading St. Paul somewhat poetically sees Creation as suffering the effects of the Fall of our First Parents (which seems to have affected it and thrown it out of order), but "yearning" to be remade when the New Creation has finally reached its goal and all the saved are gathered into Paradise at the end of time. Meanwhile, says St. Paul, we human beings also yearn to be "remade" and become sons and daughters of God. As usual, St. Paul does not match exactly the thought in the First Reading and Gospel, but he does underline the fact that God is presiding over His Creation.


The Gospel needs no commentary - the Lord does that for us as regards the meaning of the parable. More interesting is the paragraph where Jesus quite plainly says "knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been granted to you but to them it has not been granted." This is a sobering thought: do we ever stop to thank God for having been born in a Catholic or possibly a Christian home? For having been raised by good parents? For having accepted the faith and maintained our fervor up to this day? And, finally, for having had the grace to accept the message of the Institute which has by now been heard by hundreds of thousands ... but only we were called.


We must repeat again and again the Church's prayer: " I give you thanks, 0 Almighty God for all your benefits, you who live and reign forever and ever."

Who Will Get the Master's Gifts?

Who will get the Master's gifts?
If you know... do you qualify?


It's Sunday!

July 3 - XIV Sunday in Ordinary Time


One of my favorite themes about our Divine Master is that he was far more outspoken - even blunt - than perhaps he is sometimes judged to be. "Jesus, meek and mild," appears when he deals with the sick and with little children, but he made no pretense of politeness in his contacts with the religious leaders nor - on occasion at least - with his close followers. Here was a man who knew what he wanted and who said so, regardless of the listeners.


The opposite view is expressed in our Readings and Gospel today. The First Reading speaks of a king - no less - but riding on a donkey - a clear statement of the sort of king the Master wanted to be: king of humility, king of hearts, king of the poor and dispossessed. And surely in our time these are not in short supply: millions sunk in material poverty and many millions more sunk in the supreme poverty of sin.


The Responsorial Psalm, as we might expect, is a hymn of praise of this great King of ours - and what sort of king is he? The final 2 lines tell us: "He lifts up all who are falling and raises all who are bowed down."


In the Second Reading St. Paul tells the Romans that the coming of the great King into their lives, not historically but spiritually, has transformed them. Their human bodies - "flesh" are good, but Paul uses the term "flesh" to mean the basically
sinful situation of everyone born into the world. By Baptism, however, this situation is reversed and the Spirit prevails, provided the Romans (and everyone else) favors this prevailing.


Finally, the Gospel is a notable exception to the view I expressed at the beginning: Jesus the kind Savior, yearning to make us all eternally happy. But there is a condition: his love and concern are for those who are not "wise and learned." These will not get any of his gifts, nor, indeed, will they look for them. There is a certain mentality which is simply stupid and idiotic and perhaps this mentality is linked to a lack of education or a deprived childhood or some other factor which rules out much attention to the spiritual life. And there is a mentality which is largely Satanic: knowing perhaps the truths of the faith but being quite incapable of accepting them - too primitive, too unprofitable: in other words, knowing but not believing. Finally there is the blessed mentality - perhaps after a conversion in some instances - which eagerly hears the word of God and keeps it.

Concord Magazine July 2011

Best viewed in Google Chrome. You can view the magazine in another window (with larger print) by pressing the icon in the far right hand corner of the gray border of this post.

July 30, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Saturday, July 30
ST. PETER CHRISOLOGUS, Bishop and Doctor
Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday
Lev: 25:1, 8-17
Mt. 14: 1-12

Time is always well spent when we do an act of charity (APD 24).

Especial spiritual charity, for example, promoting our SAVE THE DYING Association. Disheartening to notice how little most of us do to promote this which is the most essential charity there is!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. Edmonda Natale FSP (1986)—Sr. M. Francesca Bertello FSP (1991)—Sr. Apollonia Schiava FSP (2001)—George M. Jones HFI (2005)—Sr. M. Silvaria Vitiello FSP (2006)—Sr. Lidia Bianco FSP (2007)—Sr. Emanuella Ferrarese FSP (2007)—Sr.M. Luigia Santillo PD (2007)—Sr. M. Romana Frigerio PD (2008)—Sr. M. Fides Marengo PD (2008)—Sr. James Manthra FSP (2010)—Maria do Ceu Mesquita IAM (2010)

July 29, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Friday, July 29
ST. MARTHA
Lev: 1-37
Lk 10: 38-42

We are God’s people and we must go toward Him. The way to do this is to follow the will of God. This was the secret of the Saints (VMC 666).

Simple rule in theory, quite difficult in practice because—first because we have to acquire the habit of asking what is God’s will and secondly because we have to acquire the habit of doing it. If your think that’s easy…you’re doing neither (or perhaps you’re already a Saint?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Angelica Santus HFI (1973)—Margherita Bottaro IAM (1992)—Sr. M. Savina Boni PD (1999)—Wilma Spegne HFI (2000)—Domenica Fina HFI (2001)—Rosa Emma Alarcon HFI (2002)—Sr. M. Ester Manna FSP (2003)—Dorothy Papania HFI (1998)

July 28, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Thursday, July 28

OF THE DAY

Ex 40: 16-21, 34-38

Mt 13: 47-53

Press on. Progress always, aspire ever higher, have recourse to the new means (SP 1949).

This thought seems to include a) preparation for the use of the “new means” and the actual use of them. Which is more important? Obviously, the preparation : prayer, fidelity to duties, constant effort to stay united with the Master. These you can always do, even if “the use of the means” is unlikely or even impossible.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Cleric Bede Dillon SSP (1952)—Fr. Licio Guidi IJP (1993)—Fr. Mario Peressutti SSP (2006)—Sr. M. Nohemy Gomez PD (2007)—Ramon Albano (1963)

Prayer to the Trinity for our Hundred-Year Service to the Church

Prayer to the Trinity for Our Hundred-Year Service to the Church


Blessed Trinity,
Source of the divine light that shines in us,
we offer you our joyous praise and thanksgiving
as we celebrate our first century of life as the Pauline Family.

Immensely tender Father,
we thank you for the wealth of graces you have poured out so abundantly
on our Family during these years of service to the Church.
Thank you for the miracles of apostolic holiness you realized
in Blessed James Alberione, our Founder, in Blessed Timothy Giaccardo,
in Maestra Thecla, in Mother Scholastica
and in many other members of the “marvelous Pauline Family.”
Thank you, Father, for all the initiatives of our various apostolic sectors
that have helped to make your name known and adored
and that have manifested your glory
through the wonders of communication.

Divine Master, Good Shepherd,
we humbly ask you to forgive us
for not always responding generously
to the requirements of our mission.
Forgive us for failing to dedicate sufficient time and attention
to getting to know your Word and the depths of our charism.
Forgive us for trusting more in our own abilities and means
than in the gift of your infinite mercy.

Holy Spirit, Paraclete,
we beg you through the intercession of Mary, Queen of Apostles,
to gift with great wisdom
those whom you have appointed as our guides.
Help them accurately discern the paths
by which you want to lead our Family.
Fill us with your breath of life, as in a renewed Pentecost.
Make us capable of new prophecy
so as to fully realize the dream of our Blessed Founder:
to live and give Christ, Way, Truth and Life
to the people of our time
and to be “Paul living today” in the Church.

Glory to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit…



from the prayer resources at Alberione.org/100 years

July 27, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Wednesday, July 27

OF THE DAY

Ex 34: 29-35

Mt 13: 44-46

Our Pauline life is founded on three pillars: Prayer, patience, sorrow for sin (VMC 652).

One of these “pillars” is more difficult for you and me than the other two. Worthwhile examining which is it. that could give us very good material for those short 3-minute exams of conscience we try to make every day.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Ven Maggiorino Vigolungo SSP (1918)-- Fr. Bartolomeo Oberto SSP (1968)—Sr. M. Giudita Sawal PD (1969)—Sr. Emma Ciaccarella SCBP (1998)—Chiaro Arixi HFI (2001)—Sr. Anatacia De Marinis FSP (2008)

HFI Triduum 2011 Pictures Part 1

These are just a few pictures from the first day of our Holy Family Institute Retreat. I hope to post more as soon as I can figure out how to do the slideshow. :o).

God bless...

July 26, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Tuesday, July 26
SS. JOACHIM and ANNE
Ex 33: 7-11; 43: 5-28
Mt 12: 36-43

Act with a right intention, stay close to Jesus all the tie…and He will inspire you with many ideas for your holiness and your apostolate (FSP 41).

The Founder was speaking to the Daughters, but his message is universal. ANY OF US can ‘stay close to Jesus” with a little effort and ALL OF US have good inspirations. The problem is we a) do not pray to do the will of God and b) we don’t follow the inspiration. Not good. We have to account to God not only for what we did wrong, but also what we failed to do right.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Guido Paganini SSP (1994)—Aurora Rivas de Hurtado HFI (1998)—Sr. Felicina Luci FSP (2001)— Sr. M. Candid Pirrone FSP (2010)

July 20-July 25, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

I’m going on retreat and will be away from my computer for the next several days, so I thought post Blessed Alberione’s thoughts for those days ahead of time (earliest date on the bottom). Please pray for me, that I have a good retreat. If you have any prayer requests you would like me to carry with me, please feel free to contact me.

Monday, July 25
FEAST OF ST JAMES, APOSTLE
2 Cor 4: 7-15
Mt 20: 20-28

Humility teaches us to be diffident of ourselves, to ask for advice, to take the view of others into consideration (ATP 283).

It is not easy to be truly humble. There is always a tendency either to lack a reasonable self-confidence or to be so sure that we need no one’s advice. How do you think YOU are on this point.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. Anna Maria Scifo FSP (1989)—Marta Mendoza HFI (1995)—Ines Parenzan HFI (1998)—Giuseppe Valenza HFI (2000)—Rosina Di Malta HFI (2006)—Sr. Alfonsa Marsico FSP (2007)—Sr. M. Urbana Pollini FSP (2007)

**********************************************************
Sunday, July 24
XVII SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
1 Kings 3: 5, 7-12
Rm 8:28-30
Mt 13: 44-52

To make consecrated life worthwhile we need faith to see Christ in other members and self-denial, to esteem them and overlook their faults (VMC 548).

The Founder is talking of religious community life, but even among ourselves we need similar virtues as is evident from the different and strongly-expressed viewpoints on one of the websites.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Letizia Rigoni FSP (1939)—Fr. Nicola Rocco IJP (1993)—Sr. M. Maggiorina Bortoleto PD (1995)—Sr. Augsta Bertazzon FSP (1997)—Sr. M. Assunta Usai FSP (2002)—M. Elena Serrano HFI (2002)—Sr. M. Redenta Zaccagnino FSP (2007)—Calista Jone (1999)

**********************************************************
Saturday, July 23
BRIDGET OF SWEDEN, Religious
Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday
Ex. 24: 3-8
Mt 13: 24-30

What sort of glasses do you wear? Green lens… envy. Black lens when you are unreasonably suspicious. Red lens when you get mad. What about getting a regular pair and beginning to see things as they really are? (VMC 543).

Or perhaps you need t have your cataracts treated? “I see,” is a very common phrase, but it usually means what the speaker wants it to mean. Non so blind…as those who don’t want to see. See?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Silvio Restelli SSP (1945)—Sr. M. Grazia Filippi FSP (1996)—Giovanni Iorio HFI (2002)—Sr. Stefanina Cillario FSP (2006)—Bro Domenico Molino (2007)—Chas Drouhard (1965)

**********************************************************
Friday, July 22
ST. MARY MAGDALENE
2 Cor. 5: 14-17
Jn 20: 1-2, 11-18

You are all golden threads and when you are united you make a gread cord which unites you to one another and unites you to God (VMC 541).

This is the third quote on much the same lines. It is probably not needed—we have just noted that there is great unity among us. Which means—taking the quote at face value—that we are united to God if we are united to each other.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Elisabetta Ranchi SGBP (1961)—Sr. M. Giuseppina Muddolon FSP (1981)—Bro Pietro Gazzano SSP (1998)—Giovanni Marongiu HFI (2004)—Fr. Aristide Marson SSP (2007)—Sr. M. Eugenia Cecchinato (2010).

**********************************************************
Thursday, July 21
OF THE DAY
St. Lawrence of Brindisi, priest, doctor
Ex 19: 1-2, 9-11, 16-20
Mt 13: 10-17

What does “common life” mean? It means unity in thought, in activity, in being concerned and in terms of our goals. All of us must contribute to our principle goal—personal holiness—and to our secondary goal, our apostolate (VMC 540).

The reference here is broader than the old concept of “common life”—following the schedule (which was often accompanied by internal rebellion!). It indicates a powerful common conviction and all the good that can come from it.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Vincenzo Ferraro SSP (1960)—Manuel Martinez Garcia HFI (1986)—Sr. Addolorata BAldi FSP (1999)—Angelo Leandri HFI (2004)—Bro Antonio Donato SSP (2010).

**********************************************************
Wednesday, July 20
OF THE DAY
St. Apollinaris, Bishop, martyr
Ex 16: 1-5, 9-15
Mt 13: 1-9

We have to communicate Jesus Christ, Way, Truth and Life, by trying to uplift those we contact in their minds,, their feelings and their wills – theology, morality, worship. (UPS 376)

Certainly a real challenge, but when it is broken down into these sections, we can at least do something: Pauline way of praying, the need for good marriages, constant attendance at Mass.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Bro. Eugenio Banuelos SSP (1995)—Sr. M. Lourdes Vilches Rios FSP (1999)—Fr. Emilio Stefanoni SSP (2009)—Sr. Paola M. Uchino FSP (2010)

July 19, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Tuesday, July 19
OF THE DAY
Ex 14: 21-31
Mt 12: 46-50

Our common intent must draw us close together with bonds of charity and make of our Houses pleasant oases of peace (VMC 539).

It is consoling to reflect that—whatever about the “houses”—there are indeed strong bonds of charity between members, a real concern about the many who are ill and a great feeling of “belonging” which is reinforced by our Triduum, now rapidly approaching.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Agnese Giuglardi PD (1981)—Sr. Immacolata Ascedu SGBP (2003)—Sr. M. Ester Ercolino FSP (2003)—Sr. Pierpaola Mariotto FSP (2010)

July 18, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Monday, July 18
OF THE DAY
St. Camillus de Lellis, priest
Ex 14: 5-18
Mt 12: 38-42

Prayer in common, using the common formulae is very important. Particular methods, different spiritualities, end by breaking unity, that unity which is a major blessing in our Institute: unity of thought, of action and of spirituality (VMC 538).

I have always said this, but for the first time I find it in a writing of the Founder from 1952 when the Pauline Family was well established and flourishing. Of course we are talking of prayer, not just the rattling off of certain formulae, but giving a “Pauline” tone to all our spirituality. (Fr. Tom)

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Camilla Razzino PD (1988)—Fr. Francisco Limeta SSP (1993)—Sr. Attilia Giacomarra FSP (1997)—Sr. M. Elena Borchetti FSP (2003)—Sr. M. Battistina Pisoni FSP (2007)

July 17, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Sunday, July 17
XVI SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Wis 12:13, 16-19
Rm 8: 26-27
Mt 13: 24-43

WE have to pass before our brothers and sisters with the same reverence we feel passing before a representation of the Trinity (VMC 536).

One of those “Alberionian one-liners” we find here and there in his writings. One-liner, maybe, but how much challenge it contains. And it’s what we believe: not only the Son, but also the Father and the Holy Spirit are living iin us and in others!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Olimpia Fruci {D (1947)—Sr. Anna Maria Mazzara PD (1975)—Sr. Ofelia Melis FSP (1976)—Eugenia Orlandi IAM (1984)—Sr. Teresina M. Cutina FSP (1999)—Fr. Michael Byrnes SSP (2004)

July 16, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Saturday, July 16
OF THE DAY
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Blessed Vigin Mary on Saturday
Ex 12:37-42
Mt 12: 14-21

In a Religious Family the humble person is like the oil in a machine which has the function of saving the parts from wearing out too quickly (532).

The Founder, of course, is talking about a Religious House, but his comment is perhaps even more applicable to regular family life. How we all like those people who smooth over the misunderstandings, the bursts of anger and the unkind remarks and bring harmony among us once more!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Paolina Pisano PD (1961)—Fr. Palmiro Soligo SSP (1978)—Fr. Paolo Bergamini IJP (1980)—Sr. Concetta Dondi FSP (1982)—Sr. Maria Pia Conterno FSP (1989)—Sr. Felcina Campefelli SGBP (2005)—Msgr Angelo Pizzo IJP (2009)

July 15, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Friday, July 15
ST. BONAVENTURE, Bishop and Doctor
Ex 11:10-12, 14
Mt 12: 1-18

Even joking can do good – we can’t always be uptight. Our apostolate is costly in every sense so we should take the opportunity to relax. (VMC 529).

Did the Founderreally say this? It seems he did, although how he applied it to himself is another matter. He must have found the secret of inner calm, because he very rarely seemed to get agitated.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Cleric Francesco Rollino SSP (1973)—Arcangela Airo’ HFI (1982)—Msgr. Francesco Spanedda IJP (2001)—Sr. Teresa Furlano FSP )2002)—Fr. Vito Lecci IJP (2003)—Sr. M. Angelica Ferroni PD (2006)—Demos Gotti HFI (2007)—Jose G. Saenz Sr. (2004)

July 14, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Thursday, July 14
BLESSED KATERI TEKAKWITHA, Virgin
Ex 3:13-20
Mt 11: 28-30

Holiness guarantees results for the apostolate. Love of neighbor comes from love of God (SP 1963).

Yes, but results are not always immediately visible. So let’s concentrate on hoiness and love of neighbor!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Bro. Valentino Brignone SSP (1955)—Fr. Marco Testa SSP (1971)—Fr. Agostino Gilardi SSP (1975)—Fr. Angelo Pettinati SSP (1991)—Fr. Benvenuto Cocuzza IJP (1993)—Sr. Teresa Vesentini FSP (1994)—Sr. M. Paul Beauchesne PD (1996)—Fr. Pietro Tateishi SSP (1999)—Sr. Rita Brena FSP (2002)—Sr. M. Alba Ospina FSO (2005)—Fr. Angelo Lambiasi IJP (2006)—George H. Graff (1980)-- Peter Candela (1962)—Antonio Boado (1998)

July 13, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Wednesday, July 13
OF THE DAY
St. Henry
Ex 3:1-6, 9-12
Mt 11: 25-27

The Lord created for six days and rested n the seventh, so you also should take time to restore your physical and moral energies (VMC 529).

An unusual piece of advice coming from the Founder who never seemed to take a day off in the usual sense. He didn’t sleep well at night either so we have to conclude that the Lord supported him.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. Cecilia Sciarrone SGBP (1976)—Sr. Imelda Kim SGBP (1990)—Fr. Sandro Clementi IJP (1990)—Sr. M. Evangelina Cavasin PD (2002)—Sr. M. Gabriella Di Nicola FSP (2004)—Fr. Mario Manca SSP (2009)—Sr. M. Metilde Shindate (2010)—Rose Kern (1985)

July 12, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Tuesday, July 12
OF THE DAY
Ex 2:1-15
Mt 11: 20-24

Our visits should be like Mary’s: done for reasons of charity, bringing oy and spiritual goods, leaving a sense of encouragement and progress (VMC 527).

This is not always easy if we talk about family visits which, these days, are often occasion for angry exchanges and recriminations. So a lot of prayer is needed – and perhaps this will lead us to avoid a visit – at least at this time.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Oscar Metello Dominguez HFI (1990)—Sr. Costanza Grasso FSP (2001)—Salvatore Martina HFI ( 2005)

July 11, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Monday, July 11
ST BENEDICT, Abbot
Ex 1:8-14, 22
Mt 19: 27-29

During my travels from House to House I usually recite and meditate on the Second Joyful Mystery—Mary visits Elizabeth (VMC 527).

This could be a wise counsel for all of us who have to pay visits to family, friends or business-people: it helps us think and say what is useful and may even guide those we meet, e.g. our doctor!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Giovanni Di Loreto IJP (1984)-- Vr. Umberto Muzzin (1986)—Bro GiacomoBortolotti SSP (1986)—Sr. M. Serafina Smiriglia PD (2002)—Mary McMillan Ducote (no year)—Frand Loera (1990)

July 10, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Sunday, July 10
XV SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Is 55:10-11
Rm 8: 18-23
Mt 13: 1-23

Our journey through life will be happy if the SSP as a body and in its individual members moves always on the two tracks of humility and faith (Homily of the Founder for the Golden Jubilee of the SSP 1914-1964).

Good advice for us too. But the Founder said moves… so not just to share have these qualities, but use them in activity.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Teresio Costa SSP (1962)—Sr. Rosina Orsetti FSP (1988)—Sr. Imelda Zampese FSP (1993)—Fr. Matteo Saladino IP (1997)—Massimo Costantini HFI (2007)—Christopher Pontzer (1984)—Maria Santiago (1980)

Blessed Giaccardo

+ BLESSED
GIACCARDO



It is July 14, 1917 and our holy Brother has moved from the Seminary to the much less palatial quarters of Fr. Alberione and his first helpers. There is a change of residence but no change in the 21-year-old's thinking as we can readily grasp when we read his self-judgment and his resolutions to do more and better for his Divine Master in this new situation.



The object of my spiritual action is humility: a life of humility; internal and external; toward God, toward others and toward myself. To feel my nothingness weighed down with misery and sin. I will seek to be hidden and I will seek humiliation and submission.


The example of humility is Jesus Christ. In the Host he is life and can communicate to me this life of humility. I want to transform myself into Jesus, to live his life and to be continually grafted onto him.


Humility is the first, the most beautiful, the most gentle and the most profound characteristic of Jesus' life. Because of it Jesus was God, accomplished his sublime mission so very well and became the model of every Seminarian and Priest and the source of priestly life. O Jesus, permit me to sink into your profound humility and live it! The more I divest myself of myself the more I become filled with God and if I succeed in making myself nothing, God will fill me with Himself. I will live as God, I will speak as God and I will be a more perfect, learned, holy and zealous priest. Humility is the foundation of my life and especially in this House. I will continue to concentrate my efforts on it and I will not rest until, through Mary, I can live the life of the humble Jesus.


And so I dedicate myself with all my strength, with all my heart and with all my life, to the humility of the heart of Jesus. It is a question of salvation, of mission, of eternal life. The memory of my past hurts me and disheartens. How will I keep my resolution? I am so weak, so listless, so thoughtless, so hasty? Jesus, I trust only in you. You love me, you gave me my vocation, my mission and you want to transform me into you. I have no trust in myself,but only in you and my Mother. But, founded on you, I believe I will succeed in making me humble as God wants so as to bring my mission to a close.


My transformation into Jesus through humility is the fruit of grace and of my own efforts, but most of all of grace. My personal efforts by themselves would get me nowhere. And so, first of all prayer, much prayer, the incessant prayer of this poor wretch which is yet confident and persevering. This is the fundamental thrust of my struggle and the more spirit of prayer I have, the more I will succeed. Prayer, the most effective means, is my principal means. It reaches its maximum point in Holy Communion and in the Visit during which I, the branch, will graft myself onto Jesus, the Vine, so as to receive his life and avail of the fruits of his acts of humility and his humble life.


Certainly, and I foresee it with sadness, the pride that is part of me will make me become vain and, time and time again, I will fail in humility. But I will not yield to proud discouragement. No. In my humiliation I will have recourse to Mary, the one who forms me. I-will tell her what I did wrong and I will trustfully ask her pardon. Mary will smile at me, will encourage me, and I - renewed in strength - will return to the struggle. The final triumph will certainly be mine and the kingdom of God will triumph. My Jesus, if I humble myself after my fault, I do not lose merits because the humiliation is equal to the good act I should have done.


The center of the spiritual struggle is confession. I will confess every week and see the confessor as my father, judge, maestro.


The particular examination will be the back-bone of my spiritual struggle and I will not skip it no matter what the reason, not even for one day. I will be faithful to the time required and I will see that it be effqctive. It is a source of humiliations but also of new and vital energy.


My resolution on humility, so fundamental in my life, has to be always my main concern. Habitual humble prayers,mortifications, and especially those that contradict my false self-esteem or my anxiety to be esteemed by others. I will see if I can mortify myself every day in this connection.


I also want to stir up in my life the effort to love humiliations even with my feelings because the heart is a very powerful element in the work of formation.


Moreover I want to learn to love the Lord with my heart, my emotions. I will read a Life of Jesus, see what the Saints thought about him, try to come close to him in Communion and in the Visit to the Blessed Sacrament. I will take as my motto: " What do Jesus and Mary desire at this time and how do they desire it from me?"


I will read back over these resolutions at least twice every month.


Mamma, totus tuus sum ego (= I am all yours) and I entrust these resolutions to you so you can help me to put them into practice.


Made at the feet of St. Paul in the Printing School, July 14, 1917

~Concord June 2011

July 9, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Saturday, July 9
OF THE DAY
SS. Augustine Zhao Rong, priest and companions, martyrs
Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday
Gen 49: 29-33, 50
Mt 10: 24-33

Christianity aims to make people Christian in their minds, hearts and works. It is not a matter of ceremonies and external acts, but rather a new life (ATP 81).

We have to ask ourselves if the Institute has really changed us, not only externally, but internally. Have we a constant desire to live better and – most of all—to share our vocation with others?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Maddalena Frigerio IAM (1954)—Sr. Nicolina Savoiado FSP (1984)—Sr. Luigia Napodano FSP )1003)—Sr. Monica Panero PD (1994)—Sr. M. Riccarda Dal Corso FSP (1998)—Giuseppe Marines HFI (2002)—Fr. Justo Fernandez SSP (2005)—Sr. M. Santina Tintori PD (2008)

July 8, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Friday, July 8
OF THE DAY
First Thursday of the Month—the Guardian Angels
Gen 46: 1-7, 28-10
Mt 10: 16-23

Working for God in the midst of applause and hwile looking for approval annuls and impedes the fruits of one’s activities. The Apostle, called to spread the Divine Word, must work only for Jesus Christ (RSP 43)/

How do we work for Christ? Largely, as I suggested already, by putting His interests first viz. saying a prayer instead of turning on the TV, getting up early when we might sleep in, etc. (NB. Have we forgotten the Institute rule about Daily Mass, if possible?)

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. ENzo Manfredi SSP (1977)—Fr. Angelo Cozzani SSP )1982)—Sr. M. Immacolata Gargiulo FSP (1993)-- Sr. Francesca Ruzzante FSP (2002)—Agnese Spandrio IAM (2003)—Sr. Julia Del Valle FSP (2006)-- Arcangelo Capoccia HFI (2006)—Sotero Albano (no year)—Andres Boano (1975)

July 7, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Thursday, July 7
OF THE DAY
First Thursday of the Month—the Guardian Angels
Gen 44: 18-29, 45: 1-5
Mt 10: 7-15

Children are very observant. They can easily distinguish the person who feels and practices what he teacher from one who neither feels nor practices (ATP).

The Founder was talking about CCD teachers but his observation is universal. “Example speaks louder than words.” Our exam of consciences should always include this item.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Bro. Camillo Cendron SSP (1972)—Renata Armati IAM (1984)—Fr. Claudio Casolari SSP (1991)—Msgr Giuseppe Petralia IJP (2000)—Fr. Carlo Petroncini IJP (2000)—Virigina Waltz (1999)—Basilia Asprec (1995).

Guardian Angel Prayer: Angel of God, my Guardian Dear, in whom God’s love entrust me here, ever this day, be at my side, to light and to guard, to rule and to guide. Amen

July 6, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Wednesday, July 6
OF THE DAY
St. Maria Goretti, virgin and martyr
First Wednesday of the Month—St. Joseph
Gen 41: 55-57, 42: 5-24
Mt 10: 1-7

The learned priest is esteemed, the powerful priest if feared, the priest who speaks well is listened to, but only the priest endowed with much charity is loved.

Over to you!

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Amalia Ortega FSP (1968)—Bro Giacomo Valdameri SSP (1991)—Donata Luperto HFI (1993)—Sr. Vitaliana Lot FSP (1997)—Sr. M. Agnese Inga PD (2006)—Sr. Teresa Maria Bernanrdini (2010)—Andre Gretchko (1978).

Please Pray for Our Priests: “Oh Jesus, eternal Sheperd of our Souls, please send good laborers into Your harvest.” Please watch over them and keep them safe from harm. Be their strength, their shield, their light and their inspiration that they may lead many souls to Heaven and reach Heaven themselves to be with you forever. Amen

July5, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Tuesday, July 5
OF THE DAY
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, priest
First Tuesday of the Month—the souls in Purgatory
Gen 32: 23-33
Mt 9: 32-28

When you give someone a job, leave him or her a reasonable freedom to develop it in his or her own way

Have you been given a job? Yes, read again the third point of the interrogations at your First Profession. How are you observing this requirement?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Fr. Domenico Valente SSP (1988)—Fr. Mario Fogagnolo IJP (1988)—Sr. M. Elisa Rios FSP (1990)—Sr. M. Paula Anselmo PD (2000)—Fr. Roberto Mozzachiodi SSP (2002)—Ada Barria HFI (2007)—Sr. M. Giovanna Morbini FSP (2008)—Epifania Lo Nigro IAM (2008)—Luigi Tisbi HFI (2009)—Sr. Angela Magri FSP (2010)

July 4, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Monday, July 4
OF THE DAY
St. Elizabeth of Portugal
First Monday of the month—St. Paul
Gen 28: 10-22
Mt 9: 18-26

The best expression of the faith today is given by goodness and by works of charity (FSP).

By goodness, yes. Also of course by works of charity. It’s just a bit unusual to hear the Founder mention “charity” without specifying the charity of forming others in a greater love of the Master—we can’t omit the first kind, but mustn’t forget the second.

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Gervasina Zinnamosca PD (1950)—Fr. Antonio Brotto SSP (1981)—Sr. M. Mercedes Milani PD (1996)—Sr. Pia Geraci FSP (2010)—Govanna De Stavola HFI (2010)—Ignacio Jamais (1965)

July 3, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Sunday, July 3
XIV SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
first Sunday of the month—the Divine Master, Way, Truth and Live
Zc 9: 9-10
Rm 8: 9-13
Mt 11: 25-30

People believe in making others holy before working to sanctify themselves—this is the ruination of the apostolate. We must put the sanctity of our own soul at the foundation of our apostolate (FSP 31).

Strong words! But how important. First WE get better, then by the grace of God, others will. We might alter the Gospel: “Not those who say to others: ‘Lord! Lord!’ but those who do the will of my Father.”

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Sr. M. Rosaria Avellaneda FSP (1952)—Fr. Mario Ianuale SSP (1974)—Sr. M. Ignia Giuliano PD (1988)—Sr. Yvonne Briffa FSP (2000)—Sr. M. Leontina Fiorani PD (2004)

July 2, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Saturday, July 2
IMMACULATE HEART OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
First Saturday of the month—Mary, Queen of Apostles
Is 61: 9-11
Lk 2: 41-45

Look at my wounds, O Mother: my mind has sinned, my eyes, my heart, my tongue… heal me completely, dear Mother (APD 20).

Very appropriate when spoken many years ago to the Sister Disciples and just as useful for you and me today. Concern about wounds of the body, by all means, but what about wounds of the soul?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Bro. John Vianney Mavara SSP (1985)—Fr. Giuseppe Fumi IJP (1992)—Sr. M. Celeste Carini FSP (1999)—Sr. Rosa Cimarelli FSP (2006)—Sr. Colomba Pallavicino FSP (2008)—Sr. Eugenia M. Rocchetto FSP (2009)

July 1, 2011 With Blessed Father Alberione and With Father Tom

Friday, July 1
MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS
First Friday of the month—the Sacred Heart
Dt 7: 6-11
Jn 4: 7-16
Mt 11: 25-30
* WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR PRIESTLY SANCTIFICATION

MONTHLY INTENTION

For the General Chapter of the Sisters of Jesus Good Shepherd-- that they may be humble cooperators of pastoral zeal and bearers of the Pauline spirit in their direct contact with souls.

The second intention here is good for us too—what about it?

Please Pray for Our Deceased: Msgr. Francesco Fasola IJP (1988)—Sr. M. Luigina Della Penna PD (1998)—Fr. Alessio Barbero sSP (2006)—Fr. Miguel Vido SSP (2006)—Sr. Rosina Sega FSP (2008)—David Hinchcliffe—Fr. Malahey (no years)