Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Let us praise the Lord for all the good gifts we have been given, especially our "companions in prayer."  Let us remember all the needs on our lists and those that remain unwritten.


Birthday: Julianne Stevens (6/10) , 
Anniversaries: Melissa & Neil Cyrus (6/8),  Bob & Ann Romadka (6/8),  Randy & Renee Lumpp (6/8),  Marge & John Lay (6/8), Mr & Mrs Carnegie (Gary's parents 6/8),  Mary (Norton) Weed (d. 6/12).

Keeping-in-touch: We're keeping busy with summer things: garden, BBQs and working to stay cool (or warm, depending on the Colorado Day).  We had a nice celebration of our anniversary cooking a special meal at home.

The Readings: Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: “Usually you and I have it backwards." We think we have to get rid of all our sins and turn into perfectly loving people in order for God to love us.."
My Comments: Like the Pharisee we pay too much attention to others sins and not the times we "miss the mark"!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you. 

John

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

My Companions: As we prepare to gather this week and celebrate in a special way the presence of Our Lord in the Eucharist let us pray for all our needs and praise God for all God's goodness.  Help us to serve and comfort one another and all our neighbors.

Keeping-in-touch: Another week almost slipped-bye!  Marge and I enjoyed a one night camp-out on our land in Park County; it's beautiful up there.  And we joined Fr Ed's Memorial Day Party at Twin Lakes.  I've been busy working with the C4C Group in Denver and hope we can collect 4,000 summer survival kits for Stout Street Clinic and Samaritian House.  Marge and Matthew have been fixing-up our yard and flower garden after the mess from last Saturday's hail storm.

The Readings: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: “And that is why we go to Church. In order to find the answer to our Spiritual quest in the fleshly presence of Christ."
My Comments: As I meditate on the mystery of the the Body and Blood of Christ I'm filled with awe at this Mystery through which we concretely encounter Christ.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

My Companions: Let us pray for our friends and relatives who are sick will receive care and hope especially my Aunt Agnes and Dan.  Let us find Your Glory in the new life of Springtime.  And help us grow in the Community of Love that is the Trinity.  Let us pray in a special way this weekend for all those who have given their lives that we may live and worship in freedom.  Also, remember all who have gone before us and shared their lives and their faith with us.


Birthday: Michael Ross (5/26), Anniversary: Gary Dixon (d) (5/20)

Keeping-in-touch: I guess I was not much help for you, my companions, to prepare for our assembly last week: I missed posting for the feast of Pentecost.  We took time to go camping with our SCC (small church community) at the Pueblo Reservoir.  I was reminded of Pentecost the whole weekend for we were almost blown home by the constant wind.  We shared in the inaugural voyage of Connie and Alan's new camper and we visited the one-man-built castle: Bishop's Castle.  Our friends Greg & Pat joined our camp sites for a sand-filled dinner. We're hoping to celebrate God's creations many times this spring, summer and fall with many camping trips (who knows we might show-up at your door).

The Readings: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: “Christian living is the Trinity in action."

My Comments: As I meditate on the mystery of the Holy Trinity, it helps me to know that the ancients' understanding of "person" is not the same as the common Western understanding of "person."  The ancients understood personhood as in some sense individual but always in community as well.  God is Love.  And Love can not be divided even though we think of this Community of Love as The Lover (Father), The Beloved (Son) and the Love they share (Spirit).  Oh! what a Mystery upon which to reflect!  Oh what a glory to be a part of a Community of Perfect Love!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Ascension of the Lord/Seventh Sunday of Easter

My Companions: Let us pray for all who suffer from the tragedy of the oil spill, may we work to be good stewards of Your Creation.  Thank You for all the gifts we have.  We have many cares and concerns on our lists, may we praise you in our joys and in our sorrows.
Birthday: Connie Kobza (5/10), Anniversary: Katie & Jim Frodl (5/11)

Keeping-in-touch: I can not keep up with all the activities around here...  it's good to have a life filled with activity!

The Readings: Ascension of the Lord/Seventh Sunday of Easter

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: “But this is confusing. Which was it? Take us with him to the Trinity, or somehow let his presence stay after he went?
My Comments: I liked the question, “Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky?"  At times we may have "too much heaven on our minds," and we just need to get on with the task of living!


May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Sixth Sunday of Easter

My Companions: Let us pray for all who seek healing of mind and body, especially, Dan Gravelyn who will hopefully have a successful bone marrow transplant.  May all our hurts and pains be united with Christ's suffering which was/is/will be transformed to new life.  And let's pray for the glory of all the gifts of God's creation, especially Makayla Beth.  And, Lord, make in us, and especially our leaders, new hearts filled with love and service rather than our stony hearts of greed and selfishness.  And let's pray in a special way for all our mothers, those who are with us and those who have preceded us in faith to a new dimention of life with the Lord.

Birthdays: Anna Margaret DeBaar (5/3), Willy Smith (5/5), Molly Norton (5/6), Sharon McKay (5/7), Patrick Norton (5/8),

Keeping-in-touch: I kept very busy with the honey-do list while Nana Margaret helped with the introduction of our new granddaughter, Makayla.  I'm thankful for the help I received from my friends, Gary and Bill, and my son, Matthew.  I enjoyed my dinner with Connie and Alan as we planned camping trips... it's going to be a great summer.  I'm happy to have my Bride back and enjoy her stories and pictures.

The Readings: Sixth Sunday of Easter

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: “If you loved me you would rejoice.”

My Comments: Once again we have a Gospel challenge to love as Jesus loves and we see in the first reading that, right from the start, the apostles had to sort-out what was "required."  I hope as we prepare for our celebration this weekend we're looking not to what is required but to how we can love most fully.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Special Post! Makayla Beth Schnitzer arrived!

Pray for and celebrate New Life!!

Makayla Beth Schnitzer & her mommy!

Julie and Jason went to the hospital on Monday (4/26) around 8:00 A.M.  This morning, Wednesday (4/28) at 7:45 A.M. Makayla Beth Schnitzer arrived about 21" high and weighing 8 lbs 12 oz.

Nana Margaret received this picture in her email shortly after the arrival... but she wasn't at her computer.  Papa John noticed the following anouncement on Facebook:

Matthew Lay Yahoo! She's come 9 days after her ETA, but my new neice is finally here! The stork dropped off Makayla Beth this morning:) Congratulations Julie and Jason! I'll put some soccer shoes in the mail for her...

Julz just called and Mommie's exhausted and Baby's adjusting to the world.  I think Daddy's a little spacy.

Nana Margaret will board the big silver bird this evening and officially welcome our new little one: Makayla Beth Schnitzer.

Blessings to all,

John

Fifth Sunday of Easter

My Companions: Let us pray for all our loved ones especially Julie and Jason and their daughter who doesn't seem ready to be born.  I'm thankful for Marge's recovery from the flu that knocked her out last week.  Pray for Hayley (Smith) Foresman and Eddie: Hayley was pregnant with twins, very early in the pregnancy, and lost them this past week.  Our list is long... and our blessings are numerous.


Birthdays: (none on my calendar this week)

Keeping-in-touch: I really admire the men from Nativity Parish who planned and participated in the men's retreat last weekend (over 30 men attended).  Marge had me rototill the garden and she's planting a few plants and seeds before she takes off for San Jose.  We're so happy for the Springtime.

The Readings: Fifth Sunday of Easter

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: "And yet, isn’t love the very essence of human life?" reference to Nickel Creek: the hand song.
My Comments: The pharse is so easy, "love one another."  The practice, at times difficult, brings its reward: the presence of God.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fourth Sunday of Easter

My Companions: Let us pray for all the people who are displaced because of the Iceland Volcano. Let's pray, and do what we can, for the people suffering in poverty: may the “Cycling for Change” event, this summer, raise our consciousness of the plight of the poor and help us to respond in responsible ways. Please, Lord, help the unemployed and under employed; change the hearts of those whose selfishness and greed causes such pain. Help everyone on our lists and thank You for the glorious life you give us each day.  Thank you for Ed Luckett's new full-time job and be with Deb as she struggles with gallstones.


Birthdays: Pat Serveiss (4/16),. Anniversaries: Fr Michael Carvill (4/22), my mother (d.) & dad (4/23)

Keeping-in-touch: I missed last week (and didn't write about Our Risen Christ grilling fish); none of my companions called me on my dereliction so you all must have been finishing your taxes also! We still have no new baby in San Jose and Marge has changed her flight... looks like the doctor will push Julie along if nothing happens by Monday. My colleagues in Omaha and at Ignation Scholars have given me wonderful critique for the development of adult education on interfaith dialogue; so I'm back on the drawing board. This weekend I will join men of Nativity Parish for a retreat in Estes Park so I take extra time to pray for all of you (no phone or Internet... I'll surely have D Ts)

The Readings: Fourth Sunday of Easter

Comments on the readings: Fr. Foley: "I have a hunch that you do recognize Jesus’ voice when you hear it."
My Comments: We have a wonderful Gospel: “I know mine and mine know Me.”

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Second Sunday of Easter

My Companions: Let us pray for all who need encouragement in the Love of God: those depressed or sick or saddened by life's trials.  But let's not forget to praise the Lord for all the glory that surrounds us each day.  Our list is long and filled with sorrows and joys (keep me posted on the glory you discover and the sorrows for our prayer and compassion).


Birthdays: late: Mark Schnitzer (4/3).

Keeping-in-touch: We enjoyed a quiet Easter, actually found a seat at the early Mass (in the choir space).  I do hope all our "distant companions" who rarely join in our assembly may have a powerful experience of Christ's love and more fully participate this Easter Season and through-out the year.  I hope we can all live as "the gathering of the gifted."
     Julie's due date will arrive fairly soon and Marge will travel to San Jose' to help-out.  We'll need to prepare Marge's garden soon.  Oh what a delightful time of year!
     I keep busy with classes and my efforts to build a network of religious educators using the Internet together.  I'm excited about building a course based on Jonathan Bender's play, In the Belly of the Whale.

The Readings: Second Sunday of Easter

Comments on the readings: Second Sunday of Easter, Fr Foley: "...his choice was surprisingly simple. It was taken in the absence of any proof, since proofs emerge from choice, they do not precede it."
My Comments: I can relate to the Apostles and Thomas: I find myself afraid and, at times, doubting the things I have "spent myself" in life.  But, as Fr Foley writes, I make choices and find direction in them (sometimes a call to make an about-face!).

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Easter Sunday

My Companions: Let us pray that "our hearts burn within us" as we reflect on Jesus' words in the Breaking of the Bread.
Birthdays: Mark Ross (3/29), Michael Olson (3/29), Adam Olson (4/3), Dani Schnitzer (4/4).

Keeping-in-touch: We're just enjoying some lovely spring weather and the beautiful liturgies of the Triduum.

The Readings: Easter Sunday, The Resurrection of the Lord, The Mass of Easter Day

Comments on the readings: Easter Sunday, Fr Foley: "The greatest of all Easter truths is this: God’s love is stronger than life itself, stronger than death."
My Comments: These readings of the women and apostles running to the empty tomb, the first encounters of the Risen Lord and especially the disciples on the road to Emmaus become our story and vision.  We can live as an Easter People.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

My Companions: Let us pray for all who have experienced suffering at the hands of leaders who do not know the awesome love of God (or they would never hurt others) as we read the Passion this weekend and week.  "Lord, help us know the exploding love of Father, Son and Spirit."  Also please continue to pray for all the companions on our list, especially Nancy, Dan, Judi and Donna.  And I've added Sr. Peg: thanksgiving for relief after back surgery and continued healing.  "And Lord, help us to see the windows You open for us to thrive and serve."


Birthdays: Karen Carnegie (3/22), Rachel (Kobza) Varra (3/23), Sallie Dembeck (3/23), me (3/24).

Keeping-in-touch: I'm really late... "the hurrier I go the behinder I get."  My trip to the City of Angels and the Town of Mickey Mouse went well.  I basked in the gracious hospitality of Lacey and Chris and saw some moments of sun on a sea with surf!  I enjoyed meeting new, potential, partners and returned home exhausted.

The Readings: Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

Comments on the readings: Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, Fr Foley: "All leadership has service at its root." 

My Comments: The Easter Story helps me live life to the full.  But this tough, tough weekend with its praise and passion shows the "not yet fulfilled" reality of our life in Christ.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fifth Sunday of Lent

My Companions: Let us pray for our leaders, "help us make decisions, Lord, that reflect Your love and Your will."  "Lord, bless all on our lists who need to know your glory as they struggle will health or other personal issues."  "And teach us to see as You see, to forgive and to accept forgiveness." "May Your glory shine through us as we love one another."


Birthdays: Charlie Stevens (3/17), Lindsay Smith (3/17), Trish Buckley (3/17), Rick Dunn (3/17), Robert Weed (3/18), Chrisy DeBaar (3/19)

Keeping-in-touch: This will be a big week with my travel (so I can't put writing off to the last minute).  The girls had a wonderful time in San Jose' and Nate did great: they're already making other plans.

The Readings: 5rd Sunday of Lent Year C Woman caught in adultery (our reflection),  An other choice Year A Lazarus (RCIA)

Comments on the readings: 5th Sunday of Lent: Fr. Foley, Year C: "They have him in the snare, this dreamer who always preaches about forgiveness and love?"  Year A: Lazarus Story
My Comments: None of us are ready "to cast the first stone," but how many times do we find ourselves in a crowd ready to condemn others?  If we really knew Jesus' "look of love," might we, more often, share that love with "other sinners"?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Karen and Dan

Karen and Dan Gravelyn married March 4, 2010

Please keep them in your prayers.  Here are some of Karen's words:

Thanks Uncle John and Aunt Margaret!

We had a wonderful wedding day. It was everything we could have hoped for under our circumstances. I am really glad you guys got to meet Dan this summer when you were in Michigan.

Thanks also for the prayers and positing it on your blog. I like to read the page so keep sending it to me!

I am lucky to have this time with Dan and we will just keep praying for more time. He's a great man and I am lucky to be able to be married to him.

Good to hear from you guys! We will talk soon!

Love you both.

Karen

4th Sunday of Lent

My Companions: I have prayers of thanksgiving for the help I received this week when the hard drive on my computer died: Gary Carnegie helped me install a new hard drive and upload my back-up (from 2/2) and Ramon Cuevas recovered some very important files from the old drive.  Fr. Ed Poehlmann continues to ask for our prayers that he will not have to close his school.  Our list continues to grow...

Birthdays: John Lay (my nephew) 3/10.

Keeping-in-touch: Marge will travel with Lori Beth and Nathan to participate in a baby shower for Julie in San Jose' and when she returns, I will head for "the city of angels" to attend a religious education congress.  My Regis classes, helping care for Nate and work on the Emmaus project keeps me more than busy.

The Readings: 3rd Sunday of Lent

Comments on the readings: 4th Sunday of Lent: Fr. Foley:  "I love you because you are precious to me, not because you never sin."
My Comments: Who do you relate to most easily in the parable of the father who had two sons: the father, the older son or the younger son?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Sam Eccher (3/6/10)

Sam Eccher
My colleague and friend Sam Eccher died last night.  I knew him as the lively writing consultant who needed "just five minutes of your class time to share my services for your students."  He loved his students and helped many with writing skills they had missed or forgotten.

He knew everyone at Regis and probably forgot more of the history of the place than I'll ever know.

Please keep this wonderful man and his family in your prayers.  I suspect he may be crossing the Ts and dotting the Is with Jesus today.

I'll put a link to more information HERE (link to obituary). A Memorial Mass for Sam will be Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. John Francis Regis Chapel.

Blessings,    John

Third Sunday of Lent

My Companions: Pray that everyone will accept the love of God.  Pray for Dan.  And Pray for Sam. (see the comments for this week, I appreciate the email that helps us know the need for prayer of our "companions"... Patrick and Marietta Linney, Sam's daughter).  Pray we will give an extra effort to help living things bear good fruit.


Birthdays: a blank calendar this week!

Keeping-in-touch: March came in like a lamb in Denver-land.  The weekend filled-up with networking activities (Living the Catholic Faith Conference) and a celebration of life (Pat O'Donnell's).  Nathan has a couple teeth and John's planned a trip to LA (and will be graciously be received by SCC people).

The Readings: 3rd Sunday of Lent

Comments on the readings: 3rd Sunday of Lent: Fr. Foley: "Yet what if Jesus is not the owner but the gardener in the parable?"
My Comments: These readings challenged me: how much can I tend to the garden or tree that produces no fruit?

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Second Sunday of Lent

My Companions: Please pray with me for my sister, Judi, who is back in the hospital with pneumonia; Judi's daughter, Molly; Karen Norton's friend, Dan, who is undergoing cancer treatments in Seattle; Marge's friend, Nancy Fitzgibbons, also undergoing cancer treatments and everyone on our list.  Pray for our leaders, may they serve selflessly and choose the good.  Lord, help all of us to know Your Will and do it.


Birthdays: Tony Gulmantovicz (2/22), Michele Lay (2/23) and Mitch Ross (2/23)

Keeping-in-touch: We took a trip to visit our daughter, Megan, and her family in Lincoln.  Julianne and Charlie fill the room with energy; we enjoyed watching them in all their activities, especially watching Julianne climb to the top of the climbing wall at the Y for the first time!  We were blessed with good roads and "a night on the town" with Grandma Kobza (Mass at St Joseph's and dinner at the Village Inn!).  Otherwise, we work and watch Nate.

The Readings: 2nd Sunday of Lent

Comments on the readings: 2nd Sunday of Lent: Fr. Foley: "Jesus was the very love God had offered for so many centuries. But he was also the people’s loving response, since he was completely a human being."

My Comments: Maybe, at times, were just like Peter: we think we should "build a tent" to remember Jesus in glory rather than re-member Jesus in our celebration of life and service to others!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

1st Sunday of Lent

My Companions: Please pray with me for my colleague, Patrick O'Donnell.  Pat passed to meet the Lord on Monday; I'm thankful for the times we shared.  Many still struggle in our economic environment so, thank you Lord for the gifts we have, give us the wisdom to make good choices, and may all our words and deeds bring You glory.


Birthdays: Lori Beth (Lay) Gulmantovicz (2/14), Matthew Lay (2/16)

Keeping-in-touch: We watched the fantastic athletes in the Olympics and enjoyed all the pageantry of the opening ceremonies.  We quietly celebrated the birthdays of our son and daughter and wonder where all the years have gone.  Life is busy... even when you can't put your finger on why!

The Readings: 1st Sunday of Lent

Comments on the readings: 1st Sunday of Lent: Fr. Foley: "Jesus needed to ponder this stunning message. He had to listen in silence and with an openness so holy that it would seem almost like emptiness. So he went to the desert."
My Comments: Jesus would not fall for the temptations of riches, power or fame; may the time we spend in prayer and our efforts to build good habits this Lent bring us closer to God who knows and loves us more than we know and love our very selves.

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: We can rejoice in our prayer for new life: Elijah John Lynch (my cousin, Jim Lay's 1st grandchild; born to Cherl and Emmanul Thursday evening).  Send out prayers of compassion at the passing of Gloria Torrence (Deacon John Smith's sister who finished her fight with cancer this week).  Continue with all our previous requests listed at the left side of our blog, especially Elnora, Pat and Donna.


Birthdays: none on my calendar this week

Keeping-in-touch: About all that's happening is trying to make the business work, my college teaching and Nathan!

The Readings Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time



Comments on the readings Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Fr. Foley: "...blessed are you if you stay empty, if you become a spacious home for God, for other human beings, for the long-suffering earth."

My Comments: How blessed are we, when we know we need Our Lord!

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Let us continue to pray for relief for the poor people of Haiti. Please remember those in "our network" who are sick: especially Pat O'Donnell, Madelaine Lumpp, Donna Farrell (esp. Feb 2nd, tomorrow), Nancy Fitzgibbons and Helen Luckett (Ed's Mother). Please pray with me, in thanksgiving, for the gracious reception I received from Deacon John Freund, my cousin Jim Lay and Fr James Dixon, on my travels to Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiania.  I also ask the Lord's blessing on Msgr. Bob Amundsen who sees our vision and supports us. Continue to pray for Dan (Karen Norton's friend) and guide the doctors to find a cure for him.  Help all who suffer from depression.


Birthdays: Ed Lay (my Pa) 1/27, Mary Ellen (Lay) Olson 1/29, Colleen Weed 1/30, Mike DePreist 2/1, and Ed Luckett 2/2.

Keeping-in-touch: I have missed two weeks of encouraging us to prepare for the liturgy but I had a wonderful time visiting my Pa on his 85th birthday!  We had wonderful celebrations with my sibblings and Pa supported me as I took my The Emmaus Institute "dog & pony show" through Chicago-land.  I enjoyed the tennis "down under" and even played a few sets...(at home/not Lombard!!).

The Readings Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Comments on the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Fr. Foley: “What is your attitude toward worthiness?"
My Comments: I wonder how I'm call to be "a fisher of persons."  I so appreciate the example of my Pa who served at "the Pantry" and at "the ol' folks home."  I know I am not worthy, but I pray the Lord's light will shine through me.

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

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

My Companions: Let us pray for relief for the poor people of Haiti who suffer because of bad government and a terrible natural disaster.  Please remember those in "our network" who are sick: especially Pat O'Donnell, Madelaine Lumpp (who's recovering from surgery), Donna Farrell (esp. Feb 2nd) and Helen Luckett (Ed's Mother).  I'm thankful for the responses we're receiving as we build The Emmaus Institute Partner Network and pray for continued discernment that our work alligns with God's will. (I hope I didn't leave out any requests you've made.)


Birthdays: Cullen Stevens (1/11), Mary (Dean) Norton (1/15)

Keeping-in-touch: As I try to remember last week (and now most of this one) I know I kept busy but it all just blurs... short term memory going???  I did work hard on my college classes and building our basic courses for Emmaus.  We had the baby alot last week, but not-so-much this week.  Our small church community gathered (good record for the year: we've made all meetings).  And on Monday I attended a wonderful presentation on Icons (see an analysis of the Icon in this post) by Fr. Michael O'Loughlin the Pastor of Holy Protection of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church in Denver.  Of course we always have "forwards" to read, if we ever think we have nothing to do.  Our phone keeps busy as we continue to hear good news about Julie's pregnancy and Nana and Lori Beth discuss "the most beautiful baby in the world."



The Readings Second Sunday in Ordinary Time


Comments on the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time: Fr. Foley: “Just as the Father can change a forsaken people into ones that delight him, so Jesus is able to transform water into the very best wine—a symbol of making our lives into his delight."

My Comments: It's great to start the year (and our reflection on and participation in the ministry of Jesus) with a party: people filled with life.  And the best parties I have attended were weddings... where care and love ooze.....

May the peace of Christ be with each of you.

John

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.