The Adventures of Sunday Mass

Mass was funny tonight. No, Mass shouldn't typically be funny but I had to laugh at the situation. I have been given the gift of watching my nephew during Mass. He is 3 months old. Of course I am also watching my lively three year old. Every week I think to myself, I can do this. Many moms handle 3,4, or 5 kids at Mass. Two? No problem.


Everything was off to a great start, until I dropped Joey's pacifier on the ground. Of course Olivia was more than happy to climb under the pews to reach the binky. Upon retrieving it she shouts, 'Mom, it has hair all over it'. So, the binky is done for the evening. Joey starts to fuss. Liv takes the opportunity to use the pew as a trampoline. I immediately stop her by giving her the 'gritting-teeth-turning-red' look and she sits. I stand up (at least I know enough to sit in the last row) and move behind the pew to stand-rock the baby. Finally there is peace...but we have only made it to the Gloria.


The readings come and I get pieces of the First reading. I know this much, the language was beautiful. But I don't get much farther because there is activity on the pew again. Crushed goldfish on the floor. (I know.... I try not to bring food but sometimes I am just weak. If she is eating then there is no talking, right?!) Then the dreaded news, 'Mom, I have to pee'. I say, 'Not now Olivia, the Gospel is about to start'. And she replies with the standard, 'But mom, I realllyyy have to pee'.


So this is that point... you know when you just have to decide. Does she really have to go the bathroom? How many people have now heard the word 'pee' around you? Will she continue to chant 'pee' until you take her out of Church? One time.... just one time I called her on it. I thought she was bluffing and we were running late for something. So when she stood in the Walmart cart and told me she had to pee I told her to wait until we were done checking out. You can hold it. Then the pee dance began. I'm sure you've seen it before. That little dance punctuated with a whine that just goes right through you. And then the pee began to run down her leg, onto the cart, onto the floor. It was traumatic. I felt terrible, she felt terrible and the Walmart employees felt terrible. Now I try to respect the 'pee dance'.


So, we go to the bathroom. I missed the second reading. And the Gospel. And I'm pretty sure there would have been some great message tailored just for me to hear. I am sure your next through would be, 'Why don't you just read the readings?' I would. Really I would but I couldn't put the baby down because he was fussy. And there was this spit up issue.... And Liv, well she was taking full advantage of my temporary handicap.


My sister came over right before Communion because the fussing got to be a little much.  She sits in the front of the Church and came back to assist. We got a bottle together and I started to feed him. Jessie walked with Liv up to get Communion and I continued to feed the baby. (FYI Jessie is the Youth Minister which is why I was taking care of the babe. She would have taken him but she had announcements to handle after Communion). So Jess is walking with Liv. And just as we are approaching the Holy Eucharist I get a feeling. Call it mothers intuition. Call it just plain craziness. Liv decided to follow the priest back to the altar. I don't know what she was thinking but as he patted her on the head she took it as an invitation to come with him. Jessie didn't even know what hit her.


I went back to the pew and thanked Jesus for letting me receive Him. As I lovingly patted Joey's little back and thought about my intentions I felt a warm sensation. Joey had thrown up a ton all over my right arm and leg. I kid you not. Warm spit up just makes me crazy.

And then it was over. As Mass ended with a praise and worship song I noticed a few things. First, I had stopped sweating. Second, sweet Joey was happy as a clam. Third, Liv was excitedly clapping her hands and dancing to the song. Fourth, I am a superstar.

 

Vatican tribute to U2

I am in love with U2. I listened to them in utero, through childhood and now into adulthood. So you can imagine my happiness upon reading this article found at Catholic Media Review:

"Vatican newspaper pays tribute to U2. "

The writers are recognizing U2's stong Biblical basis for the words in their songs as well as their heavy emphasis on those things spiritual. Even the titles and themes of each of their albums have a spiritual basis from their conception. It is beautiful to think that this bigger than life band has based so much of their music on the main chords of Chrisitianity. Thanks to Catholic Media Review for a great post.
Enjoy!

New Reform for the Liturgy?

Papal Liturgist endorses 'reform of the reform'. Jan. 07, 2010

from the Catholic National Reporter

I came across an article from the Catholic National Reporter. I love reading about Pope Benedicts vision for the future of our Church. Any 'change' that calls the faithful to increase the love and respect for the Eucharist has got my attention and my support. I love being reminded that every part of the Mass should be conducive to Adoration. It only makes sense to remember that the Lord is present with us during that time therefore only the greatest respect should be shown for Him.

Of course after reading the comments left at the bottom of the article I realized that many people are not happy about change. Below are some of the highlights of the article. To read the article in full go here.

What are your feelings on the following?

"The Liturgy cannot and must not be an opportunity for conflict between those who find good only in that which came before us, and those who, on the contrary, almost always find wrong in what came before," said the pope's chief liturgist, Msgr. Guido Marini.

"The way forward for any liturgical renewal is "to regard both the present and the past liturgy of the church as one patrimony in continuous development," he said.

Examples include:

"Hence the reason for the proposal made by then-Cardinal Ratzinger and presently reaffirmed during the course of his pontificate, to place the crucifix on the center of the altar, in order that all, during the celebration of the liturgy, may concretely face and look upon the Lord, in such a way as to orient also their prayer and hearts,"

and

A renewed emphasis on "adoration," explained by Marini as "union with God," also will foster continuity with the past and should be a criterion for future liturgical practices, he said. Everything in the liturgy must be conducive to adoration, Marini said, including the music, the singing, the periods of silence, the way of proclaiming the Scriptures as well as the liturgical vestments and the sacred vessels.

and

He said it was this same desire to renew a sense of adoration that prompted Pope Benedict to make it the norm in papal liturgies for the pope to distribute Communion on the tongue to people kneeling.

The Promise of Today

It's been a whirlwind of a few days. A family friend has finally come to the last of her days with her battle with cancer. (Please pray for Joyce, her husband and children). My deceased dads birthday came and went. And my moms illness (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder) has gave us a run for our money as she battles with bronchitis. It has been sobering thinking about death and dying. Unfortunately (or fortunately) these situations really make you stop and think.

What do I know about the promise of Heaven?
What do I believe happens after death?
What is the real point of life on earth.

There was a time when I was angry with death and illness. Angry that our family had to deal with excessive death and dying.... Most people still have their grandparents and not only did we not have our grandparents but we lost our father and have a very ill mother. Then it occurred to me that this, this was the bones of life.

Life and death. Overwhelming to say the least. But it has brought me to a new level spiritually. It has forced me to say, 'Yes, there is loving God. And yes, I desperately want to be there with Him, after death.'

I am confidant that there is a Heaven to aspire towards and a loving Father that wants to embrace us. I want to live this life for our God, doing things on earth that help the world to grow and love. I want to make each day count; truly making a positive difference in my family and friends lives.

Time is not promised. Tomorrow is not ours. Only today, in this moment, can be promised.

Lord, fill us with your Spirit. Inspire us to spread the Gospel, telling those around us about your love. Please give us holy boldness so that we may spread your Word. Thank you for the promise of Heaven. Thank you for today. Amen.

Holy Boldness

Bishop Fulton Sheen once wrote:

"There are not 100 people in the world who hate Catholicism, but there are millions who hate what they mistakenly believe Catholicism to be".

How true are these words! In light of a new year, I have felt that tiny tug on my heart that begs the question, 'Will you tell them who I am?'

For the most part I have lost my fervor, my holy boldness, to evangelize to those in need. There was a time when I felt the conviction to spread the Gospel message independent of my pride. Now my pride envelopes me and I want to shy away from speaking out loud to someone about our Savior. I mean, I might offend them, or bore them, or look strange. And then it hits me.

Its all about Christ! Everything is about our Lord. And what a gift it is to be able to tell the world about the love of Christ. What would be the point of our existence if not to glorify our Creator? I am amazed at how distracted I can become by the world and all the empty promises it has to offer. I pray that I will not worry about feeling embarrassed or looking weird. It is not about me. It's about Him.


Thank you Lord that men like Fulton Sheen can inspire and remind us that it is indeed all about You. May 2010 be a year filled with Holy Boldness and a greater love for You! Teach us how to evangelize Lord so that all Creation may know of your greatness.

Merry Christmas

Hello Modern Catholic Moms~ I hope by now you are winding down from a beautiful Christmas day. Although I am thoroughly exhausted I am happy. We had a great day filled with family and love.

My hope is to return to the blogosphere. I look forward to writing with you once again! God bless the rest of your Christmas Day!

Come and See Kids Catholic Bible Giveaway

Check out a chance to win "Come and See" KIDS Catholic Bible studies for children. Each chapter contains a Bible story, a memory verse, a perforated page to tear out and color, and a simple craft. The kids will look forward to starting each new chapter.

Frugal Catholic Mommy is hosting the 12 days of Christmas giveaway! Find it here!

Let the Oppressed Go Free- Book Review

Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction
By Cardinal Justin Rigali

I am a proud book reviewer of the Catholic Company. (The Catholic Product Reviewer Program). The latest book I have had the opportunity to review is ‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction.’

Cardinal Rigali has created a book that is informational, easy to read and a perfect guide to learning more about the bonds of addiction. Throughout the book addiction is explained by references to the Catechism, Scripture, Redemptor Hominis (The Redeemer of Man), the works of St. Theresa of Avila and so much more.

The book is broken up into seven parts. These include:

· The nature of addiction
· The importance of a robust Christian anthropology
· Initial appraisal of problems posed by the Internet
· The Sacraments: The importance of grace and virtue
· The importance of prayer
· The twelve steps

From there each part is broken up into specific questions that are relevant to both the chapter and basic understanding of addiction. The book does not have to be read straight through but can be referenced as needed.

Unfortunately in this day and age, every family is touched one way or another with addiction. Someone we know, friend or family member has exhibited addictive traits if not a full blown addiction. This is the book to go to when asking questions about how addiction and how the Catholic Church feels about the like. There is no mincing of words or a fairytale remedy for breaking addiction.

For someone who has studied a fair amount about addiction (I worked in drug and alcohol rehabilitation for a few years) I was grateful for the Catholic influence regarding this matter. I appreciate that Cardinal Rigali recognizes the spiritual component to addiction and healing and provides the reader with the knowledge to make changes in their life.

This is a book for family member and friends of those with addictions. This is a book for those who are suffering from addiction. This is a book for those who want to learn more about how Catholicism can help addiction.

‘Let the Oppressed Go Free: Breaking the Bonds of Addiction’ is a great informational book, orthodox to the core and a means of hope for the oppressed. I definitely recommend this book. Check it out here.

The Catholic Company can be found here.

Preparing for Christmas

Could it be that the first Sunday of Advent is almost here? I know you are thinking, Wait! We havent even finished with Thanksgiving! I have decided this year to truly keep the spirit of Christ at the forefront of our Christmas season. I am amazed by how easily I become distracted by the bright lights, the store advertisements and the gift giving. But not this year. This year I have a plan.

1. Every time my little one mentions 'presents' I follow it up with an excited voice exclaiming 'How wonderful that we get to celebrate Jesus' birthday with presents'! She in turn gets very excited about a birthday party for Jesus.

2. A birthday party for Jesus. We will make a cake and make sure to sing to the Lord of Lords!

3. Christmas shopping- completed before December 1st. I am so happy not to be distracted with 'buying' this December.

4. Advent Wreath- I will post more about this later. But I am excited to have a little one who will be able to understand (sorta) what is going on! (She is three almost four. We'll work with what we can).

What do you do to keep Christ the reason for the season?

The Beatitudes for Children

Check out my Tiber River Review of

"The Beatitudes for Children".

Awesome book that you can find here.

"The Beatitudes for Children" is a book that will speak to the heart of your child about the very words Jesus Christ has given us to live by.

Product Link:

http://tiberriver.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/home.viewreview/review/655

Tiber River:

Navigating the Sea of Catholic Media

The first time I received the Eucharist

"The first time I received the Eucharist I was in my mother's womb".

How beautiful to know that as an unborn child we are receiving our Lord, Jesus Christ. The very thought that God created us so that our babies in utero would have the privilege to receive Holy Communion is truly a testament to the beauty of the unborn child. We continue to pray for all unborn children and the end to abortion.

Freedom of Speech?

An interesting article. This man, a recent graduate from Franciscan University of Steubenville, was fired for telling his gay co-worker that gay marriage is wrong.

Read it here:

Fox News

Whether or not your faith leads you to be for or against gay marriage a question that needs to be asked is whether or not freedom of speech has been taken away from this man. If the situation was as he stated then could the women be fired for harassing a practicing Catholic about gay marriage? Will businesses begin censoring all converstation so that no one may talk about any ethical issues? Where is the line? How do you get fired for non support of a co workers same sex marriage? When did we lose our freedom of speech?

Great Pro-Life Victory

Here is the letter I received from the Susan B Anthony organization. THIS IS GREAT NEWS!!!



Dear Tara,

All of your letters and calls paid off!

Tonight the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Stupak-Pitts Amendment to H.R. 3962, by a vote of 240 to 194, with 64 Democratic members voting in favor of the amendment to ban federal funding of abortion in the health care bill.

This is a great victory for the pro-life movement and for all SBA List members who so diligently contacted their Representatives leading up to the vote.
With the adoption of the Stupak-Pitts Amendment, the House of Representatives made a principled and sound decision to continue our nation’s longstanding policy of protecting taxpayers’ conscience in the area of abortion funding.
In the coming weeks, we will remain vigilant and shift our efforts to the Senate to ensure that these same pro-life protections are included in the Senate bill. We fully expect that pro-abortion leaders will still try to find ways to sneak abortion funding into health care.

For now though, let's celebrate this great victory for unborn children and women. Thank you for all of your efforts in defense of Life. Together we can save countless unborn lives.

God bless,

Marjorie Dannenfelser
President, Susan B. Anthony List

Happy All Saints Day!

Liv wanted to be Immaculate Mary for All Saints Day. She was so cute. She told me that she needed to have a rosary in order to make the constume complete. Father had her lead a Hail Mary and she did great!

Ten Commandments of a Wife and Mother

The Ten Commandments of a Wife and Mother:

“When one finds a worthy wife, her value is far beyond pearls.
Her husband, entrusting his heart to her, has an unfailing prize.
She brings him good and not evil, all the days of her life.”
- Proverbs 31:10-12

Check it out here.