The Baptism of the Lord

My Companions: On this cold, cold morning my first prayer is one of thanksgiving for our comfortable home.  I follow this with a petition for help and compassion for all who suffer because of the elements.  I ask the Lord to bless my sister, Judi, and all others who suffer both physically and emotionally (the pains of rejection from those we try to serve and love).  Also as we celebrate the start of Jesus' public life, Lord open our hearts and teach us your ways.


Birthdays: Rebecca Munez (1/3), Dave Debaar (1/5), Jack Lawrence Parise  (1/7)

Keeping-in-touch: Marge and I rang in the New Year in our usual way: a bit early and watching On Golden Pond and we started the year very quietly.  We've cared for Nathan the last couple days; he has "a good set of lungs" so we're on our toes.  We've watched a lot of football and I keep plugging away at recruiting partners for our Emmaus Institute project we expect abundance in 2010!  Classes begin this weekend so the year has begun full force.  I had the opportunity to visit with Pat O'Donnell a couple times and enjoyed hearing about his dissertation topic (Jesus and ecumenism).  I hope this year we all take time to slow down and share stories and visions with one another.

The Readings The Baptism of the Lord

Comments on the Baptism of the Lord: Fr. Foley: “God is like a parent watching his teenager’s growing pains. Help all you can, but definitely do not try to stop the growing."
My Comments: I can help but note the difference between the example of Jesus and the behavior of many of our "leaders" who vote themselves raises when "little ones" suffer greatly in this present economic environment.  I wonder what we must do to hear God voice call to us "... I am well pleased."

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Mother of God and Epiphany

My Companions: For what shall we pray as this year, this decade, draws to a close?  Let me suggest that we review the past year and praise our God for the glory of life we have experienced through out this past year (looking back at the words and pictures of this blog archive, my heart heats-up with gratitude and love for all we have experienced together in prayer).  Let's remember all our companions, especially those who transitioned before us this year to another dimension of holiness; rejoice in our participation in the Communion of Saints.  Let's resolve to do our small part to bring peace to our families, our neighborhoods, our world.  Let's seek forgiveness and offer forgiveness for our acts of commission or omission that, even in small ways, blocked the growth of God's kingdom in our midst.  Let's take some time to quietly rest in the presence of our God who is nearer to us than we are to ourselves!

Please pray with me for my friend and companion, Patrick O'Donnell, and his family.  The brain cancer returned and Pat is at the Hospice of St John in Lakewood.


Birthdays: Lindsay Ross (12/27), Alan Kobza (1/1/10), Sue Ross (1/1/10)

Keeping-in-touch: Marge and I made our annual trip to the movie theater and saw Invictus.  At the movie-house we serendipitously encountered soccer-parent friends, Pam and Brad, and enjoyed a delightful evening.  We've enjoyed catching-up with the active lives of many who sent us Christmas letters (I was a slacker this year and didn't write or send cards).  We welcomed the opportunity to meet Lacey Kobza's friend, Chris and visit with Grandma Kobza.

The Readings
The Readings for New Years: Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

The Readings for Sunday: The Epiphany of the Lord


Comments on the Readings, Epiphany: Fr. Foley: “The child’s weakness shows what God has in mind as the answer to evil. Tender, unfearing openness to love."
My Comments: Luke tells us that the shepherds found Jesus lying in a manger; Matthew tells us that the Magi followed a star and encountered a greedy, dominating King before adoring Jesus in Bethlehem.  Mary, the Theotokos: Mother of God, kept all these things in her heart.  Hopefully we will learn, more fully, to find God in all things as we enter a new year, a new decade.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Merry Christmas

My Companions: Let's all reflect on the absolute wonder that "God became a baby!" We thank the Lord for healing for Lori Beth. And we praise Our Lord for all the life given to us.

Birthdays: Chuck Olson (12/21), Judi (Lay) Cole (12/22), Julie (Lay) Schnitzer (12/22)

Keeping-in-touch: We've kept busy watching Nate and closing the year.

The Readings

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “...to be fully human means allowing enough room inside ourselves to let God and others in."
My Comments: "Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen." Let us, too, glorify and praise Our God for all we have seen!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fourth Sunday of Advent

My Companions: My daughter, Lori Beth, fell on the stair and broke her tailbone.  Please pray for her quick recovery as she has many responsibilities with Nathan.  I have a prayer of thanksgiving that Tony was called back to work at the Railroad... lay-offs are such a drag!  We're also delighted and thankful to enjoy Kelly DePriest, our neighbor who is home for a visit from her work in the Peace Corps.  I also suggest we pray especially for those who do not experience peace, at this holiday season; that they may be filled with the compassion of our Lord.
Birthdays: no birthdays; I missed Mark & Sue Ross' Anniversary last week 12/12 (help me when I'm missing events)

Keeping-in-touch: I had an opportunity to work with traditional undergraduates and film some of their work... an opportunity to learn/relearn how to use the camera.  Last we enjoyed some good time with Nathan, we made some headway on the Emmaus Project (Immaculate Conception Parish joined our Partners) and we partied with the RS/PL College Faculty.  Marge had a babyshower for Lori Beth and Nathan.  We witnessed the wonderful generosity of Nativity Families who responded graciously to the Giving Tree project that Connie organizes so well!!

The Readings:

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Watch Mary hasten to her cousin’s house, a long trip, on foot, over dirt and sand and rocks, under the hot, hot sun (Gospel). She does not have to be queenly and coddled in order to mother of The One."
My Comments: The little town of Bethlehem, a "nothing place," became a great place of the birth of the Savior, may we come to know that our simple persons can truely become great when we open ourselves to God's gracious love.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Third Sunday of Advent -- Rejoice in the Lord always

My Companions: My sisters have asked for prayers for Judi's daughter and Mar's sister-in-law (see comment).  And my friend, Randy, had some surgery so as always we have many concerns and always much for which to give thanks and praise.
Birthdays: ? none

Keeping-in-touch: The cold chilled our bones but we're keeping busy: Nana with Nate and Papa John with building the Emmaus Network.  We're also hosting and attending parties. 
The Readings:
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Let it sing. Let your life be what it is: God’s joyous, interleaving, always consonant melody, sounding outwards in deepest joy.  
My Comments:  The disciples of John asked, "What should I do?"  Let me recommend some time in meditation... a friend gave me a wonderful book that has helped my preparation this Advent: Christian Meditation: Experiencing the Presence of God, a guide to contemplation by James Finley.  This could be a great gift to give yourself.
May the peace of Christ be with each of you.
John                                                                            Our Lady of Guadalupe

Second Sunday of Advent

My Companions: "The Lord has done great things for us!"  Let us pray with gratitude; I'm especially thankful for the support I received to continue The Emmaus Institute Project.  But I also need to ask your prayers for some companions, who ask not to be identified, but suffer from oppression: some economic, some emotional.  Also please pray with me for teachers in the inner city schools: may the reasources be given to them to do their work for God's Kingdom.


Birthdays: Kathy DePriest 12/3

Keeping-in-touch: These cold days make me so thankful for our warm home!  Nana's had a wonderful time helping to take care of Nate... it seems we watch him grow.  We're having a gathering of Ignatian Faculty Scholars this week; it will be good to tell and listen to our stories as we share a meal.

The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/120609.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Advent, the quiet time, the great contrast with our culture’s turbulent consumer-bonanza... Christ is gestating right now in our hearts, just as you and I did in our mother’s womb."  http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/2AdvC120609/reflections_foley.html
My Comments:  Maybe our economic troubles take the "plastic luster" out of this "shopping season," maybe I'm growing old and don't care much for "stuff," or maybe I already have too much "stuff"... whatever!  I just feel fortunate to have focused my preparation for Christmas on encountering friends: listening to stories and sharing visions... and working to quiet myself and listen.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

First Sunday of Advent

My Companions: Prayers are answered, sometime in the way we wished: Greg writes: "please change our house status to the "Thansgiving and Praise" section for sale of our house and finding a new home." And we still have a long list of petitions, praise and... I hope, as we celebrate Thanksgiving with hearts of gratitude and prepare for our yearly celebration of the Incarnation this Advent, we can be filled with life and hope.


Birthdays: an empty calendar this week.

Keeping-in-touch: Not much new to share (especially since I've been running late and now post early in the week). We expect to keep busy with work and holiday preparations.

The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/112909.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “If you can say “You are right, I am afraid of these,” then go back to the Responsorial Psalm and pray. Beg that Christ be given birth in your soul..." http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/1AdvC112909/reflections_foley.html

My Comments: I know that I'm anxious. I keep very busy and work to "put on a happy face," but even in my efforts to discern God's will, I wonder if I'm truely open to God's "next best opportunity."

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.
John

The Solemnity of Christ the King

My Companions: Better late than never??  In the "Links" on the side I have added a link to "Listen to Scripture."  That link takes you to pod casts for the daily readings (they're produced ahead so you will have to scroll down to the present day).  I hear of many who are sick, out of work or just struggling with life; let us pray and work for all hurting persons.  I also hear of great joy: new babies, old friends connecting after many years and people finding peace in their lives.  I have a special prayer for Lacey Kobza who will move to California, keep her safe and may she find true "gold."  May we praise the Lord and may the Lord give us strength.


Birthdays: Anniversary: George Stevens 11/17, Megan (Lay) Stevens 11/19, Lacey Kobza 11/21.

Keeping-in-touch: Nana has been able to watch Nathan a couple days and it brings such joy to her heart!!  I've been working seeking the Charter Members of our Emmaus Institute Network and appreciate the help of Karen and Ed.  I've also enjoyed working in the traditional college filling-in for another sick instructor: the students are sooooo young.  And we've enjoyed our snow dumpings & meltings.  Oh, and the news is: Julie and Jason will have a little girl in April.  That will even the grandchildren to two girls and two boys!!!

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112209.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “I could make the present reflection into a campaign for action, action now."
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/33OrdB111509/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: As the Church year draws to a close and we reflect on the end of the world, I ask myself: "What kind of King are you seeking?"

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: As always, we have so much for which to pray: the glory of the life around us, all the people on our lists, and for discernment of God's will for us...  My special prayer this week is for all who suffer and are near the end of their days (fill-in the blank _______________) and remember what these people teach us about the tentative nature of our short lives and how we expect redemption through our suffering.
Keeping In-touch:  It's Saturday afternoon and I'm only getting this posted "under the wire."  We had a wonderful time with our daughters, son, son-in-laws and grandchildren!  The snow has melted and we enjoy 70 degree temps...
The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/110809.shtml
Reflection on the readings: http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/33OrdB111509/reflections_foley.html  "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference."
My reflection: When I look at my calendar, when I look at my "check-book," I see where my treasure really is.

Extra, extra... Special blog post: Cameron James Frodl

Another member of "the community of saints" arrives before All Saints Day.  Cameron James Frodl came into the world about 7:00 A.M. (Grand Rapids, MI Time) weighing in at 7 lbs 10 oz.  Grandpa Patrick called to tell us the good news and Auntie Molly posted this picture on Facebook.  We're told everyone is doing well.  Congratulations Katie and Jim....

Solemnity of All Saints

My Companions: We’re still waiting for Katie (Norton) Frodl and Jim to have their baby… any day so we’ll pray for an easy healthy start to a new “saint.” The cold weather, and snow in Denver tonight, will make survival more difficult for the homeless among us, so let’s remember them as we use the gifts we have with a sense of stewardship. And let’s pray for and with All Saints, those we recognize among us and all with whom we pray who have gone before us. Also pray for all our intentions listed on this blog, especially those who are sick and all who need good work. And please protect all our offspring on the road and in the air these next couple days.


Birthdays: Hayley (Smith) Foresman 10/27, Jason Schnitzer 10/27, Tim Weed 10/28 and Mike Lay 10/31. Anniversary: Judy and Larry Lay 10/29.

Keeping-in-touch: Our small church community enjoyed entertaining our parish priests… we always have fun when we gather together. And Marge and I celebrated the weekend liturgy at St Ignatius Loyola Parish: Fr Eustace has a wonderful, welcoming diverse assembly with whom it was a joy to pray. Our Emmaus projects keep me very busy. We had an opportunity to baby-sit Nathan William; Nana was in here glory!!! Otherwise, I’ve been busy with work and Marge is very busy getting ready for the Nebraska crew and our California clan who will arrive in a couple days.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110109.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “These (last two beatitudes) sound like curses, not blessings—who could want such treatment?”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/AllSaints110109/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I love this feast day, All Saints. The blessings, beatitudes, leave us with a great challenge and magnificent hope for how we expect to live in the community of love that will have no end.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.
John

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Many have asked for prayers from us. Praise God with me for the gift of new life in Nathan William and (niece) Katie’s due date is tomorrow (more signs of the glory of God). Even more good news: our Julie and Jason are “with child.” Let’s thank God for all our good fortune in supportive family and friends and ask that God heal the hurting people among us, especially those who are haunted by their histories and need a special dose of God’s gracious love and forgiveness. It sounds like brother-in-law, Patrick, has found good doctors who will treat him. On a tougher prayer front: (niece) Molly’s Huntington disease stresses her and her family especially my sister, Judi, who asks for our prayers. Don’t forget to thank God for your vocations and opportunities to use gifts and talents; pray for those unemployed or underemployed, the homeless and the victims of bad economies, wars and greed.


Birthdays: Josh Parise 10/19, Clinton Ross 10/22, Don Lay 10/24

Keeping-in-touch: All activity of Nathan’s birth, care in the ICU and welcome to Lori Beth and Tony’s home (Tuesday afternoon) made everything else seem mediocre aspects of life: even the 6-0 Bronco record. We enjoyed some beautiful warm sunny days, and now it’s snowing… gotta love it! We’re looking forward to hosting dinner with our parish priests and our small church community members tonight.  And it's only a week until the Nebraska Crew and the San Jose Crew join us for a fall family gathering.  Everything else is day by day; one foot in front of the other...

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102509.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Can you and I see? If Jesus asks us, “What do you want,” how would we answer?
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/30OrdB102509/reflections_foley.html

My Comments: I’m thinking of the crowd that tries to hush-up blind Bartimaeus because, recently, I have heard the pain of many other people. Too often I just don’t want to hear any more, I fail to see Christ in the other, and do not allow God to use my heart, my hands and my head.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

The Gulmantovicz family is doing well, at home in Henderson... how wonderful!!!

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: It’s Friday: I waited long enough: we can “Praise the Lord for new life.” Nathan William Gulmantovicz was born yesterday around 3:00p weighing in at 8 lbs and towering 22 inches. We also had anxious news from Patrick, Marge’s brother, about “markers” from his previous surgery so I ask that you pray for guidance for his doctors as tests are done. We can pray prayers of gratitude for those who are finding work but remember also others who struggle.
Birthdays: Clarley Stevens 10/11, Nathan William Gulmantovicz 10/15/09. Anniversary: My mom’s passing 10/17
Keeping-in-touch: All the anticipation came to a head yesterday when we learned that Lori Beth and Tony now have a baby. And it was a crazy news day with excitement about a hot air balloon flying over Colorado while a six year old boy hid in a garage attic! I attended a Jewish-Christian Dialogue Dinner in Colorado Springs: an excellent event to grow in appreciation of one another.
The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/101809.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Why does the trustworthy, loving, parental God permit suffering and catastrophe even when he has heard in detail the prayers of those about to be afflicted?” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/29OrdB101809/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: My thoughts on this Gospel reading have been, “Watch what you ask for!” Do you really want to be on the right or the left as Jesus passes to His Glory? I guess we all long for the Glory of New Life but who really desires to be nailed to a cross?
May the peace of Christ be with each of you.
John

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: I ask you to pray this week with me for Emily and for all the women who chose life in difficult situations. We met Emily this week; she has nurtured the life within her and will give the new born son to Lori Beth and Tony when he is born, any day now. Pray also for all who enjoy health or renewed health; especially my father who hear good news from his medical tests. Let’s also pray for wisdom and seek that first; we’re told that the Lord will take care of the rest! As always, review our lists and let me know of your special prayers of praise, thanksgiving or other’s needs.

Birthdays Bill Smith 10/8, Cameron Stevens 10/8, Judy Lay 10/8 Anniversary: Mary & Patrick Norton 10/10

Keeping-in-touch: The moss doesn’t grow on anyone ‘round here. The rhythm of the academic year has beaten a rapid cadence already. And the seeds I’ve sown for The Emmaus Institute have begun to take root. I have a special excitement about the Interfaith Dialogue program and some other special projects. I had a wonderful trip to work with my friends in Las Vegas: that’s a crazy town with some amazing “regular” people. The anticipation of new life continues to increase in this family… we’re so richly blessed.

The Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/101109.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: …Alas, the man is not quite ready after all. “At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/28OrdB101109/reflections_foley.html

My Comments: I often reflect on how, as my son-in-law tells his students, I have won the lotto simply because of my place of origin. With any kind of global view we must notice how rich we really are! But, shame on me when I see my glass as “half-full.” Hopefully I will grow in wisdom, let go of stuff and more fully follow Jesus.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

God made them male and female.


For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother

and be joined to his wife,

and the two shall become one flesh.

Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Cullen’s grandmother, Willalee Haris died (9/10); she had just moved to Lincoln to live closer to the Stevens families.

Birthdays Kristine Lay(9/23), Eric Olson (9/25) Anniversaries: Don & Kris Lay (9/20), Mary & Chuck Olson (9/23).

Keeping-in-touch: Summer came to an abrupt end, we even lit the fireplace… this happens every year! I’m traveling so the update has only the basics this week.

The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/092709.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “…if we listen to the gentle soul within us, the Holy Spirit’s dwelling place, we will come home to the presence of the One, and the ones, who love us.” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/26OrdB092709/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: Would that we all listen to the Lord’s voice and share God’s will with all the people we encounter!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: We have much for which to pray… look at how our list grows! Cullen’s grandma is not doing well and my Dad will have a colonoscopy on Sept. 24th. Also, I have a student, Crystal, who had difficulty with kidney stones and infection, complicated by a heart problem and pregnancy… and for all the people we hold up in our prayer.
Birthdays Mary Kate Weed 9/13, Taylor Smith 9/13 and Margaret Lay 9/19
Keeping-in-touch: We have so much excitement around our house: anticipation of Lori and Tony’s baby… looking forward to a visit at Halloween with Charlie, Julianne and their parents… and Julie and Jason will leave that foreign country (California) to see us and the Trick-o-treators! It’s nice the City has a big parade for Margaret’s birthday (Broomfield Days)!
The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/092009.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “…no human being can become truly and freely human without putting God in first place, valuing everything else in relation to his love. I said “everything”—even power, even wealth, even friendships.”  http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/25OrdB092009/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: Most of us would not hurt a “Just One” among us. But, if he or she became too challenging, we might ignore them!
May the peace of Christ be with each of you.
John

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Well, I’ve been “a slacker” and failed to update this blog last week… and I’m running late this week. Some of our prayers are being answered*: Lori Beth and Tony received “the call” and will have a baby to adopt in about a month. And Dad told us that his friend who had a stroke walked out of the hospital yesterday. Julie McKay received good news that her cancer was removed. And Nic also received good news about his physical and now can serve as a firefighter! So, as we continue to pray for those who have gone before us, for those who mourn and for those suffering (Dan Montoya from my table at “That Man Is You” asks that we pray for friend who is very ill with meningitis and is in University Hospital, Mike McNutt: “Please put him and his wife Karen in your prayers.), we have much for which to express our gratitude and praise.
*Of course, all our prayers are answered in the Lord’s Wisdom. Some we understand and appreciate more than others.
Birthdays Mike Pintek 9/7 and Anniversaries: Julie (Lay) and Jason Schnitzer 9/5, Lori Beth (Lay) and Tony Gulmantovicz 9/7, Gary and Joan Carnegie 9/8
Keeping-in-touch: I can not think of much new and exciting. We’ve enjoyed watching the US Tennis Open and the Rockies. Marge harvests her garden. My classes keep me busy.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091309.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: Now is the time to give them a big scoop of the truth. “The Son of Man must suffer greatly … and be killed, and rise after three days.” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/24OrdB091309/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: Ever since I first studied the Gospel of Mark and saw how much Jesus’ chosen apostles just didn’t get it, I’ve been struck by this question: “Who do you say I am?” And I claim that my reply probably says more about me than it does about Jesus! Hopefully, each day in my prayer, I move my self more to the side and more fully become open to Christ who suffers and loves like no other.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Mike McClanahan 1973 -2009

Mike was an avid adventurer who rock climbed and hiked. He worked in logistical support for the US Antarctic Program having travelled to Antarctica numerous times since 1994. He was a great husband and dog lover, with affection for our two Labrador Retrievers, Chester and Stanley. He passed away on Friday, August 28th at the age of 36 after battling cancer and respiratory illnesses.

Twenty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time

My Companions: We have prayers of gratitude for Audrey Fox delivered a healthy baby last week. But we also have prayers of sorrow: one of Cullen’s students, Emily Johnson, died Saturday in an auto accident. (see http://www.journalstar.com/news/article_ac232560-8f95-11de-862c-001cc4c002e0.html). A prayerful hug of those near and dear to you is in order after learning this. Nick (Katie Lay’s fiancée) had a challenging medical exam (see brother Don’s comment on last weeks post) and Josh Parise (Christine Lay Parise’s husband) fights a fever so pray for them. While we are at it let us pray in gratitude for the good health many of us enjoy.
Birthdays this week: James Carnegie 8/26,
Keeping-in-touch: I had a wonderful experience serving the faculty of Presentation of Our Lady Catholic School to a retreat experience in the mountains. Marge and I were treated to dinner twice last week with Tom Duggan and Margie and with the Carnegies! We “baked at the ballpark” with the DePriests… but the Rockies won!

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/083009.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: The interior life of Jesus is the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew that any law of the Kingdom of God must emerge from the love he found in love or else be empty http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/22OrdB083009/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I am dumbfounded (if you can believe that) at times when I think of how the law/laws can serve us… and keep us alive. Yet, at other times, the blind following of laws delude me into complacency. I pray for a heart that is “on fire” with the Spirit that transcends all laws.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: I hope you saw the added comment from Fr. Ed about prayer needs: John Harakal and school funding needs. I also learned that Deacon John Smith’s sister, Gloria Torrence, has liver cancer and is concluding her treatments, so keep Gloria in your prayer. I also learned that Sandy Howard’s mother died this summer and will add her name to our list. And please continue to pray for all who are unemployed or under-employed. Don’t forget to praise the Lord for all the glory we find in life… and expect to experience in the full!
Birthdays this week: Margie Pintek 8/11, Katie Lay 8/19.
Keeping-in-touch: We visited good friends, Greg and Pat, while they were camping near us. Randy and I met with a publisher of “courseware.” We’re enjoying our cool summer weather as much of the rest of the country burns. Marge and I seem to be fighting a summer bug, but our energy levels have begun to return to normal. I spent much time preparing for the retreat I will lead with the teachers of Presentation of Our Lady… and I’m excited for this work!The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/082309.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: And of course, in his command from last week, to eat and drink his body and blood. The writer of John’s Gospel did not think it necessary to explain that Communion makes us “become what we have eaten,” the body of Christ. He just gave Jesus’ words by which we know this, and the disciples had to figure it out for themselves.
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/21OrdB082309/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: “Master, to whom shall we go…?” After hearing the message of “the kingdom of God” which is at times “very hard,” how can one attach one self to some guru or commit one self to power or fame or money? Listening to the message of Jesus challenges us to live in love: most beautiful, most rewarding, most life-giving…and at times, most difficult!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Melanie wrote that we pray the following: "May Mike McClanahan come to peace with his medical situation and accept what is next." Continue to pray for Julie McKay (breast cancer--note to last post). My sister, Judi, will have an operation on her hands. Remember all on our lists. Lindsay Smith's voice may be on the mend... she really wants to praise God with her voice and this gives us call to pray for all who can not use their gifts because of illness or economy or....
Birthdays this week: Neil Cyrus 8/11, Anniversary: Michele & Mike Lay 8/12
Keeping-in-touch: We enjoyed a quiet week… our excitement: Rockies won the series with the Cubs!

Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/081609.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Stop thinking that your life will ever make sense if you fill it with piles of stuff and forget the one thing you need the most: closeness to God and closeness through God to everyone and everything else.”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/20OrdB081609/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I have experienced great faith with the men at Nativity who joined in a study of Christology. They shared their experience of receiving the Bread of Life and they expect to live forever. We reflected on our lack of wisdom but we enjoyed our journey and prayed to continue to walk in faith.


May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: We should praise Our God for all the gifts God has given us! What a wonderful creation God has set before us. And I have received good news from some of my companions: Audrey is doing well and we’ll continue to pray for a healthy baby; Sharon wrote that Kari “… is doing well.. getting preventative treatment, but technically right now she is 'cancer free'”; and Mike told me his brother, Jim, is recovering from his heart procedure. Let us listen as God tries to speak through our hearts (I added the reference to Centering Prayer for this week)
Birthdays this week: Maggie Lay (younger) 8/2,Gary Carnegie 8/7
Keeping-in-touch: We had a wonderful week: we returned to our swing of things, our SCC camping was “wet and wild,” and we attended the beautiful installation of Fr. Eustace at Ignatius Loyola Parish.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/080909.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “God pursues us quietly, gently. How can we partake? Receiving Communion is a central way.”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/18OrdB080209/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I have so little about which to complain, yet I find myself murmuring over little aches and pains. And I remember my “Elijah experience” many years ago… that dangerous memory has led me to a wonderful life filled with every good thing and loving & compassionate companions. Lord, help me to rejoice in the life You have given me as well as the fullness of Life that you promise. Help me bring “good news” to others and move on to what You have in store for me.

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: We had hoped to meet our friend from our trip to Ireland, Pat Dolan, but she had to leave Vail because her daughter has to have an operation: please pray for them. Many of our “companions” take this summer time to travel so we need to remember them. As always our leaders need many prayers: may they be true servants and write laws and policies that bring out the best in their people. Fr. Eustace Sequeira will be installed as pastor of St Ignatius Loyola Parish on Sunday, may he thrive as he serves his people! As always I appreciate your prayers for the people on our lists.
Birthdays this week: Cameron Ross 7/26, Ted McMurdo 7/29, Karen Norton 8/1
Keeping-in-touch: We returned from camping Monday and enjoyed the normal activities… studies, gardening and thinning the forest on Dover Court. I wrote a grant proposal and met with the Deacon Formation team. Kim Dixon and her son, Matthew, stopped for a night before heading to Vail: Matthew had time to run me around the tennis court.
The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/080209.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “We should take the falling seriously because there is really no answer to the failures of our lives, the dropping away of opportunities, the falling economy, the multiple disappointments, and the soft progress toward death.”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/18OrdB080209/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: Let us praise the Father for all the “bread” he gives to us, especially “The Bread of Life,” His Son, Jesus.


May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: I have heard of many concerns: Theresa (aunt Margie’s sister) needs prayer for her up-coming heart surgery and I have been asked to pray for my Sister’s, Judy’s, daughter, Molly who has a terrible disease. My colleague and friend, Pat O’Donnell, had an emergency brain surgery and is recovering. Niece, Katie Lay, told us of her engagement to Nick and we’re happy that the wedding will not take place ‘till next fall; pray that they celebrate love that exists when that satisfaction, security and development of another is as important as one’s own satisfaction, security and development. I’m sure there are many concerns, as well as, prayers of gratitude and praise that I can not begin to list.
Birthdays/Anniversaries this week: Larry Lay 7/14 (b-day), Megan & Cullen Stevens 7/14 (wedding anniversary),
Keeping-in-touch: Life is slowly returning to the normal rush… We took some special time to go camping in the national forest with Lori Beth and Tony (and their puppies). We’re happy to enjoy the quiet of our home and begin to catch-up on professional and personal activities.

The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/072609.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “…keep this Lord before our eyes. The God who gives lasting peace.”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/17OrdB072609/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I don’t know about you, but so often I, unreasonably, worry about how we will continue to make the dollars outlast the month. When we gather this weekend the Lord calls us to trust that He will provide!


May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: I ask that you pray with me for (the other) John and Margaret Lay who celebrate their love in Christ today, their wedding day. Otherwise pray for safty on the roads and all our needs and concerns as well as thanksgiving for blessings received and the Glory of God.

Birthdays this week: Dave Larson 7/9 Katie (Norton) Frodl 7/10 Ryan Beck 7/11

Keeping-in-touch: Wow another week of travel (almost updated this blog before you gather for our weekly celebration... at least those of us on this side of "the pond," Lou!). 1,600+ miles and we will still drive from Chicago to Lincoln to Broomfield after Johnny and Maggie's wedding. We had good celebrations of Independence Day in Twin Lakes with Fr. Ed & family & friends and another celebration in Broomfield.We had a good visit with the Weeds and the Pinteks and I reconnected with a high school classmate and tennis partner, Bob Blackburn... it's good to tell old stories and laugh!

The Readings:http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/070509.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “In your own life, why not be on the lookout for gifts and givers?”http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/15OrdB071209/reflections_foley.html

My Comments: I try to keep open and hear what the Lord is sending me to do each day. I added a picture my friend Greg sent this week... it reminds me of the glory of God and the gratitued in my heart for all God's creation

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Randy had an MRI on his feet; let’s hope the doctors can find ways to cure/help him. Let’s pray for an excellent experience for the Cambodian girls that will study English at Regis and stay at the Lumpp’s. Pray for Marge’s friend, Nancy Fitz, operation to remove tumors. Let’s pray for all the travelers this holiday. And we’re thankful for all the moisture we have received in the Denver area.
Birthdays this week: Christine (Lay) Parise 6/30, Rev. Ed Poehlmann 7/4
Keeping-in-touch: This week we should slide back to normal, do chores around the house, catch-up on course-work and get ready for another trip. I’m enjoying the Wimbledon matches that I can see. Mike’s teaching me to play the game. I had a few hits in the Nativity Men’s Softball game but couldn’t put the ball over the plate; I served too many walks. Marge is doing better after the loss of her sister: we really appreciate your prayers.
The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/070509.shtml
Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “Let us take a different look at miracles… Doesn’t love have to be two-way?”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/14OrdB070509/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I can relate to the readings soooo much! If Jesus could experience such rejection in his home town, why should I have such thin skin?? I will work to open myself to love and put our faith into practice.


May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Summer is in full swing: we’ll celebrate Independence Day at the end of next week. I pray that we can “Live Free” not only politically but physically, emotionally and spiritually; actually I wish we could “live as one” in a community of loving people who seek not only the freedom to live as children of God but also acknowledge the interdependence of all humans called to be one in Christ.
Randy wrote: “Looks like Billy Maggio's liver is rejecting. Looks like no options left.” Please keep Billy and his family and friends in your prayer.

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Birthdays this week: Julianne Stevens 6/10; Andrew Kornacki 6/15; Jim Frodl 6/19; Stephen Lay 6/19 (I had to do a little catch-up!)
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Keeping-in-touch: Last week is a bit of a blur for us with Mary Weed’s funeral and our travel back home. This week has almost come to its conclusion before I’ve written on this blog for our preparation of Sunday’s scripture and to “keep-in-touch.” And in a little over a week, we will return again to the Great Lakes States to celebrate John & Maggie’s Wedding.

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The Readings:
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/062809.shtml
Comments on the Readings:

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Fr. Foley: “But Jesus was certain, with God’s own assurance, that love is stronger than death.”
http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/13OrdB062809/reflections_foley.html
My Comments: I could not find more appropriate readings for our present situation than those for this Thirteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time: we need to know that God did not create death but has power over it! Can we have the faith of the woman with the hemorrhage (long form of the gospel) and know that our “touching Our Lord” will heal us? Or that of Jairus, the synagogue official, who has the courage to seek out Jesus!
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May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Mary Weed 12/8/52 to 6/12/09

Mary Weed went before us in faith Friday, June 12th.

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She fought cancer for many years and taught us all about fighting with grace and dignity and love.

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We will all miss all the love she brought to this world especially: Bob, her husband of 27 years; her son Tim (24) daughters Colleen (22) and MaryKate (18); and her sister, Margaret, and brother, Patrick.

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As a brother-in-law, I knew Mary as a person who stayed "out of the lime light" but brought love and joy and service to others "behind the scenes." She looked for the positive in everyone... even me! I know she prayed for me especially when she read this blog. Her life was a service of care for her family of origin, her husband and children and all who needed a meal or an open ear.

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I remember how she kept Margaret informed on their aging parents (Aquinas and Alice) as Mary cared for them so well. Mary was Margaret's information source for the goings-on of the family. They loved each other deeply. Although we live twelve hundred miles apart, they shared their lives regularly with laughter and tears.

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Mary didn't really take to snow skiing (this was BB: before Bob) but we (Mary, Margaret and I) had a memorable experience. After our trials at Winterpark CO when we spent much of the evening stopped on Berthoud Pass behind a line of cars stopped because of an avalanche we invited two fellows from Georgia to joined us in our Chevy and keep from freezing to death in their air heated Volkswegan. I can still hear the laughter.

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Mary and Bob really lived their sacrament of matrimony: they showed us how their love for one another in good times and in times of suffering witness to Christ's presence in our world. Bob's care for his lovely Bride has impacted my soul as an example of true love.

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And you only have to visit with Tim and Colleen and MaryKate for a short while to see the effect Mary's love has had on her offspring. Those young people have suffered, and also enjoyed good times, with their mother. They have learned about true love and service from their parents.

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It took me a long time to "publish" this memorial because we're exhausted from travel and funerals... and there's a big hole in the hearts of the Weed and Norton clans. I'm certain Mary will have had patience with me!

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We love you, Mary, and await our celebration of the resurrection together in God's good time.

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: By now, most of our friends and relatives have learned of Mary Weed's passing on Friday: http://obits.mlive.com/obituaries/grandrapids/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=128404648 She really did teach us that Christ does not give us short-cut through life; He promises that we will pass through suffering, as He did. The gift of her faith through her suffering will always be an example for me.

We did have some good news, that Rachel and Peter closed on a house.

Keeping-in-touch: We have enjoyed our vacation in Spain with Connie and Alan. We experienced a different culture, saw many sights and made some new friends. We will have many stories and pictures to share. I think our internal clocks will adjust... sooner or later!

The Readings: http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/062109.shtml

Comments on the Readings: Fr. Foley: “The Gospel shows Jesus using the same confusing manner of love on the disciples in the boat.” http://www.liturgy.slu.edu/12OrdB062109/reflections_foley.html

My Comments: Who is this Jesus who calms the storm and asks us to have faith! In times of hardship and loss we really are challenged to have faith: an openness to allow God's love to work through us.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John