The Cold, Hard Facts About the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

It seems many people still don't realize that the ALS Association (ALSA) condones and uses Embryonic Stem Cell research - and thus negates the ALSA as potential recipients of our charitable efforts.

Last week I authored a piece, Throwing Cold Water on the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, over on Catholic Stand. As it was shared in Facebook-land and other social media, it spurred quite the reaction. Some comments were expected, others came as a surprise. All in all the responses have been good.

There are a couple of things that I hope readers will take away from my presentation of the facts surrounding the charitable assistance owed to all of those who suffer from ALS or any other debilitating, life threatening disease - an ethical cure should never come at the expense of the life of another.

Here are the Cold, Hard Facts about the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in a nutshell: 

• The ALS Association (ALSA), which initiated the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, supports Embryonic Stem Cell Research.

• Embryonic Stem Cell Research kills tiny human beings, who were created for experimentation. 

• This is considered to be one of the intrinsic evils by the Catholic Church.

• ALS victims deserve our compassion and research to end this horrible disease is a worthy cause.

• There are ethical alternatives to the ALSA, such as the John Paul II Medical Research Institute.

• The John Paul II Medical Research Institute does NOT support or use Embryonic Stem Cell Research.

• If you choose to accept the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, please designate your donation to the John Paul II Medical Research Institute or another moral/ethical organizations.

• American Life League has a vast list devoted to informing readers about the morality of most large charities. You might be surprised at which ones (and how many) are unethical.

• Catholic bishops, from dioceses such as the archdiocese of Cincinnati, are accepting the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and publicly spotlighting their support for the ethical research being done by the John Paul II Medical Research Institute. They are alerting their flocks to the moral repugnance of Embryonic Stem Cell Research.

As Catholic Christians, we are morally bound to practice morally discerned charity. It's our duty to know the moral stance of those to whom we donate. A little bit of research or asking a pro-life organization, such as American Life League, will easily give you the answers you need. Whether you choose to give privately or via a public event, always remember to care enough to make sure your giving is morally sound.

Cancer While Pregnant? Both Mother and Baby Can (and Should) Live!

Taking a cue from Pope Francis, our family is known to evangelize. His oft repeated message calls us to share the word of God where we are, saying, “The Church must be in the streets”. As a passionate pro-life advocate, my participation in this call often centers on the sanctity of life. As His creatures, God’s first gift to us is our very being. In as much as He is the author of life, we owe Him our utmost effort in preserving it.

Sharing a Personal Story

Our family has had its share of opportunities for ‘walking the talk’ when it comes to the pro-life message. One such story – finding myself to be a pregnant 14-year-old – has been a past topic. Another is the experience our daughter, Erika, lived when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at 20 weeks pregnant. Sharing her story has been a valuable tool for reaching out to those in similar circumstances – a surprisingly significant segment of society. That she was given only two options – abortion followed by treatment or waiting until after birth for treatment – is typical of advice most frequently given across the country. Often we see stories of a virtuous, heroic mother who forgoes treatments in deference to the life of the child she is carrying. What isn’t as commonplace is the medically advanced, morally sound option of treatment while pregnant. This is the alternative I feel a spiritual pull to share. After all, both mother and child deserve the best chance of survival!

Knowledge - a Powerful Ally

Unfortunately there’s much misinformation out there. For this reason, our daughter, a molecular biologist, Howard Hughes research scholar, and former forensic biologist did her share of research when presented with two unacceptable options by local doctors. What she found was that chemotherapy during pregnancy does not raise the risk of miscarriage or other problems. In fact, the oncologists who treated her at M.D. Anderson in Houston had been successfully using this method for over 20 years. Although these children continue to be closely monitored, there have been no incidents of detrimental effects to date. This option is as safe for the unborn child as that of no treatment. Even though our daughter was high risk for miscarriage (4 occurrences prior to her second live birth), her doctor assured her the option of chemotherapy treatment would not increase her risk.

According to Erika, “The maternal-fetal doctor I saw in Houston told me that the biggest ‘risk’ of chemo treatments while pregnant was the increased likelihood of early contractions. However, she again assured me that a) any time a pregnant woman is stressed, she’s likely to have contractions and b) those contractions are rarely productive”.

So what causes all of the misconceptions and why isn’t this scientifically proven method more commonly shared? Perhaps doctors poorly explain or fail to acknowledge the truth. It’s also possible that doctors aren’t as familiar with chemotherapy during pregnancy as they could be. Every woman presented with a cancer diagnosis while pregnant is free to choose what she feels is best, but being armed with the facts – all of them – should be a vital part of that decision-making process.

I tell our story via the pro-life memes I create and share.

Life for Both

As is typical, the outcome proved to be win-win when our healthy, full term granddaughter was born on Thanksgiving Day 2009. She joined all of the other ‘chemo babies’ of the past 25+ years, whose mothers had an increased chance of surviving a cancer diagnosis during pregnancy. Today, Rachel is a precocious 4-year-old who ranks in the 90th percentile in height and weight for her age group. She’s a beginning reader who aspires to out run her rambunctious 6-year-old brother. Whenever we are out and about, her disarming smile is sure to garner comments and begin conversations. In true evangelizing style, we never miss an opportunity to express our gratitude to God for this living miracle of ours. Many a stranger has walked away from a checkout line or gathering, knowing that a cancer diagnosis while pregnant doesn’t have to be a death sentence – for the child or the mother.

Celebrating another year of life at the Horses and Hope Event in KY

Visit the Designs by Birgit fan page on Facebook for hundreds of pro-life and faith memes to share!

NOTE: A similar version of this piece first appeared at Catholic Stand.

Ridiculously Easy Tomato Paste - Plus 2 Recipes Using It

If you're like me, you either have a flood of ripe tomatoes right now - or your neighbors do. So what to do with this onslaught of 'love apples'? Make tomato paste, of course! My husband and I love making our own pizza, spaghetti sauce, and barbecue sauce - so why not make them using free tomatoes from the garden? This is a recipe I developed about four years ago and, I confess, was created out of pure laziness. I'd gone the route of blanching and peeling the tomatoes, but decided there had to be a simpler way. Boy was I right!

Ridiculously Easy Tomato Paste

Ingredients:

Tomatoes

Tools:

Soup Pot and/or Crock Pot
Knife
Cutting Board
Strainer

Process:

• Cut tomatoes into halves or quarters - don't peel or core, just remove stems.

• Place into soup pot or crock pot and simmer until they fall apart. I cook 12 quarts at a time and it takes 24 hours.

• Use the soup pot lid until liquid begins to form, then uncover to enhance evaporation.

• Run stewed tomatoes through a colander or strainer, making sure to leave only the skins behind.

• Pour tomato meat and juice into crock pot and simmer, uncovered, on 'low' setting until desired consistency. This might take longer than you'd expect - don't hurry the process.

• Allow to cool.

• If you want a smoother paste, run through a food processor or Ninja at 'high' speed.

• Place into containers for freezing. I use 4 oz. plastic baby food containers (for pizza) and Zip-Lock sandwich baggies, containing 2 cups of paste (for barbecue or spaghetti sauce).

While this process may take some time, it couldn't be easier to carry out. I occasionally stir, as I'm walking through the kitchen from time to time. No need to babysit the paste, it will continue to simmer, unattended, quite nicely!

I've been using this process for four years now and am amazed at how fresh the paste remains - even after an entire year in the freezer.

NOTE: to prevent discoloration (which doesn't affect flavor), add a few drops of lemon juice.

RJ's Tangy Barbecue Sauce

2 cups tomato paste
3/4 cups brown sugar or Splenda (for low carb version)
1/4 cups red wine vinegar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoons hickory-flavored liquid smoke
1 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

• Pour tomato paste into a non-reactive sauce pan (I use stainless), on low/medium heat. Add butter and begin to simmer. 

• Add all other ingredients and simmer until desired consistency is obtained, stirring frequently. 

Serve immediately or allow to cool and store. I use an old, squeeze ketchup bottle. I'm a MasterPiece Barbecue Sauce lover, and this is just as good. If you use Splenda, this recipe is good for low carb diets. 

Will be good to use for several weeks - but probably won't last that long!

RJ's Artisan Pizza

Your favorite white bread recipe (will make two pizzas)

For each pizza:

1/2 recipe of bread dough, ready to bake

6 oz. tomato paste

Toppings as desired

Seasonings as desired

Mozzarella cheese (we make our own)

Roll out dough and place on pizza stone. Add paste and spread evenly. If you use raw vegetables add them as well. Bake at 400 degrees for 6-7 minutes. Remove from oven. Add other ingredients and layer as desired. Make sure fresh herbs and seasonings are beneath other ingredients, including cheese. Bake for an additional 6-7 minutes and then kick up to high heat broil, until golden brown. Allow to rest, then cut and serve.

This pizza dough is light, tender and thin. If you have a favorite recipe for pizza dough or prefer a thicker dough, use your own recipe. We sometimes bake it in a large cast iron skillet as well.

What type of homemade foods do you make? Ketchup? Cheese? Breads? Share your recipes in the combox!

Novena to Saint Afra - Martyr for Conversion

As the wife of a convert, I have an affinity for the saints tasked with converting souls for the Church Jesus brought to us in His human role. During our lives, we are all in need of conversion from our sinful ways, as well. Two obvious favorites, Saint Monica and Saint Augustine, quickly come to mind. However, there are other, less commonly known saints to petition as well. One example is Saint Afra whose feast day is August 5th. How fitting, then to pray for the intercession of this former pagan for the next nine days.

This former barmaid and prostitute's character was so nefarious that she was instrumental in the corruption of many youths in her city of Augsburg, in Bavaria. Yet Divine Grace triumphed when this most wretched creature was brought, from the very lowest abyss of disrepute, to the glory of martyrdom.

Tradition holds that Saint Afra and her entire family, as well as her three servants, were converted by the holy bishop, Saint Narcissus. It appears that, for the rest of her life, she recollected and was tortured by her past crimes against God. This lead her to liberally give to the poor, who sometimes refused her charity because they considered it the wages of sin. She would then fervently pray to God for remission of her offenses and beseech them to accept her gifts.

Saint Afra was arrested during the persecution of Diocletian, and brought before a judge, named Gaius, who said to her: “Come now, sacrifice to the gods; it is better to live than to die amid torments.”

Saint Afra replied: “The sins which I have committed before I knew the true God are sufficient; wherefore I cannot now do that which thou commandest. I never will do so: it would be adding a new insult to my God.”

When the judge ordered her to repair the temple, she answered, “My temple is Jesus Christ, whom I have continually before mine eyes, and to whom I every day confess my sins. Since I am unworthy to offer him any other sacrifice, I am anxious to sacrifice myself, in order that this body, with which I have offended him, may be purified by torments; this reflection shall make me suffer most willingly.”

Some accounts relate that Saint Afra was martyred by being burned alive, while others say she was beheaded. Her feast day is August 5th. Read more of her story at Catholic Saints and Catholic Answers.  

Feel free to leave your intentions in the combox. Start on Sunday, July 27. Will you join us in praying this prayer as well as an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be for the next 9 days?

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          Prayer to Saint Afra for Conversion - Daily for 9 Days beginning Sunday, July 27

Lord Jesus Christ, most merciful Savior of the World, we humbly beseech you, by your most Sacred Heart, that all the sheep who stray out of your fold may one day be converted to You, Shepherd and Bishop of their souls, Who lives and reigns with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen.

Saint Afra, pray for the conversion of souls. Saint Afra, we beseech you to intercede on behalf of [mention your intention]. Saint Afra, pray for us! 

Say the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be.

9 Intentions as We Pray the Saint Anne Novena

Glorious St. Ann, filled with compassion for those who invoke you and with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at your feet and humbly beg of you to take the present affair which I recommend to you under your special protection.

St. Ann, please, recommend to your daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue.
St. Ann cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. (Mention petition now.)

Above all, obtain for me the grace of one day beholding my God face to face, and with You and Mary and all the saints, praising and blessing Him through all eternity. Amen.

Good St. Anne, mother of her who is our life, sweetness, and hope, pray for me. 

Click this link to follow the St. Anne Novena online.  

St. Anne, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary and grandmother of Our Lord Jesus Christ, was not called by name in the canonical gospels. Instead we find our information about her from apocryphal literature. Anne, derived from Hebrew, is a name meaning 'grace' and is befitting of she who brought forth she who bore our Savior. In Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, her name is given in its Arabic form, Hannah. In the capacity of Forbear of God, she is celebrated during two of the Twelve Great Feasts - the Birth of Mary and the Dedication of Mary to the Temple.

Since the feast of St. Anne is celebrated on July 26th in the western calendar and July 25th on the eastern calendar, many of us are now observing the devotion of praying a Novena for her intercession on our behalf. Although we usually personalize our intentions when praying a Novena, St. Anne in known for being the patroness of several causes. Therefore I present the following nine petitions:

1. St. Anne patroness of unmarried women - intercede for those who are seeking a spouse, contemplating marriage, or discerning the religious life as a sister or nun. May their discernment be made with grace and true love, we pray to the Lord.

2. St. Anne, patroness of housewives - intercede on behalf of women who tend to their households, whether they be single, married, mothers, or caretakers. May they pursue this calling with a selfless love of God and others, we pray to the Lord.
.

3. St. Anne, patroness of women in labor - intercede on behalf of mothers who are currently pregnant, trying to conceive, suffering from health issues related to their feminine role, those in the process of birth, and all mothers who lovingly tend to their children. May they find comfort and peace in the loving bosom of your daughter, Mary, we pray to the Lord.

4. St. Anne, patroness of grandmothers - intercede for those whose motherhood has reached its second generation. May these mothers of mothers and fathers be inspired to gently present a virtuous example for all in their extended families, we pray to the Lord.

5. St. Anne, patroness of horseback riders - intercede for those whose livelihood or recreation involve our equine friends. May they remain gentle and safe in their pursuits as good stewards of Gods creatures, we pray to the Lord.

6. St. Anne, patroness of cabinet-makers - in as much as your son-in-law was a carpenter, may you intercede for others who pursue this noble craft. Protect them from harm and guide their hands in virtuous creation, we pray to the Lord.

7. St. Anne, patroness of the Mi'kmaq people - intercede on behalf of these first inhabitants of Canada, that justice and peace may fill their lives in their indigenous land, we pray to the Lord. 

8. St. Anne, protector from storms - intercede on behalf of those who suffer from natural disasters, such as storms, floods, earthquakes. May they find shelter, comfort, and aid when needed, we pray to the Lord.

9. St. Anne, patroness of miners - inasmuch as Christ is compared to gold and Mary to silver, remember all those whose livelihood depends on the depths of the earth. May miners be protected from danger and harm, while those who employ them take gentle care of their safety, we pray to the Lord.

Pro-Life, Pro-Gun Rant - Misrepresentations That Drive Me Crazy

We all have inequities that send us over the edge. Those pesky slants, people put on happenings, that completely distort reality. I have many such peeves but wanted to share one such misrepresentation and the meme it drove me to create.

Misrepresentation - Guns kill people, they kill more people, more of the time and they should be outlawed. Actually, gun violence is significantly lower than in past years. You wouldn't know that if you listen to the media or read what those who want to stomp on the 2nd Amendment have to say. These same people will often say nary a word about the senseless killing of millions of unborn babies - killing that happens because of convenience or fear or misinformation. Here's my meme using a stat that might catch your attention:

According to the article,  Gun violence in US has fallen dramatically over past 20 years, Justice Dept. report finds, in US News/NBC, "the highest number (of gun offenders), 40 percent, said the guns came from a family member or a friend. About 37 percent said the weapons were stolen or obtained from an illegal source". That's almost 80% of guns acquired by gun offenders. So why the push to ban gun ownership for law-abiding citizens?

In case you suspect that I'm cherry-picking my stats, let me share two more links from the main-stream media:

• Gun Homicide Rate Down 49% Since 1993 Peak; Public Unaware

• Rate Of U.S. Gun Violence Has Fallen Since 1993, Study Says

On the other hand, no matter how many times President Obama and other democrats, liberals, and feminists say they care about protecting the lives of innocent children, they never make the transition to respecting the lives of unborn children. Instead, these littlest brothers and sisters of ours are called a 'mistake' and a punishment - even while they are sacrificed at the altar of convenience and fear. Yet a quick look at the comparison of the numbers begs the question, "why the inequity"?

In case you're wondering how many reported abortions there are in the United States, I'll share this link from the Guttmacher Institute (reporting arm of Planned Parenthood). According to their numbers "30% of women will have an abortion by age 45". That's no small number! This doesn't take into account the multitude of other abortions that go unreported - prenatal lives lost due to the abortifacient aspect of the Pill, Plan B (morning after pill), and D & C surgeries performed on women whose babies who still have beating hearts. This last is a moral crime against both the mother and the child, and was offered to a young woman I know, when it appeared she would have a miscarriage. Check out the other stats available from the Guttmacher Institute, by following the link below. Knowing their sentiments, I'd judge their numbers to be as low as possible. The reality is most likely much grimmer. I've also added a pro-life site with their sourced facts.

• Abortion Incidence

• Abortion Fast Facts

• Birth Control and Abortion

If this post makes you go 'hmmm', why not share it and let the rest of the world catch up to what we, the people of the pro-life movement already know. ABORTION kills an innocent victim - every time! If you want to stop violence against the innocent, against children - work to stop abortion!

5 Ways Facebook Can Bless Your Life

Facebook - some love it, some hate it - but it's all really a matter of how it's used.

We’ve all read stories of mothers neglecting their children to play some inane game. Dinners burn or go uncooked and families fall apart because a virtual ‘relationship’ got in the way. Other, smaller, proofs of the downside of extreme usage are most likely evident on a daily basis, somewhere in the world. There’s another, more worthy side to the Facebook coin, however. As with all pleasures, moderation is key. We are in control of how many hours we spend on Facebook or any activity, for that matter. Also within our power is the amount of food, alcohol, and leisure activity in which we indulge. To everything available to us here on earth, there is a need for temperance. There can definitely be too much of a good thing – but that’s more a reflection of our choices than it is on the activity itself. Although, I’d be remiss to claim Facebook usage perfection, I can share the boundaries I have set in place in an attempt to make my own virtual social interaction healthily balanced.

Facebook Pen Pals

With Facebook, the number of virtual pen pals available is limited only by our keystrokes – and time allotted. The examples are plentiful. Emily understands about your daughter’s neuropathy – because she’s living it too. Erika can give terrific tips about homeschooling because she’s a certified teacher who now teaches her own children. A side bonus is that her husband is a computer whiz. As a Canon Lawyer, Fr. V gives church-sanctioned advice on how to handle a relative’s upcoming illicit wedding. Other friends share recipes, organic weed killing concoctions, and child rearing tips. I’ve traded flowers with other avid gardeners and set up First Friday gatherings with other homeschool families – all courtesy of Facebook. All this is available at the tips of your fingers – spend as much, or as little, time as you desire.

Increase the Reach of Prayer Through Facebook

Who can’t use more prayers? I know I need all I can get – and some days we are thrust into an emergency situation when the quick response of friends is a huge blessing. Facebook is the perfect place to garner the assistance of some fierce prayer warriors. It’s also much more efficient than trying to make individual calls. Once you’ve honed your list of friends to a fine demographic, you’re golden when it comes to prayers – both for your benefit and for the benefit of others. What better way to demonstrate the spiritual power of the Body of Christ? I know my family has benefitted greatly from these connections.

Gathering Information Via Facebook

Don’t know the difference between Discipline and Dogma? Join a good, faithful Catholic group and the official definitions will become readily available. Want to know more about the Latin Mass? When you make good Catholic friends from all over the world, you are gifted with photos, videos, and information on an almost daily basis. If you’ve been wondering what difference there is between the Second Vatican Council and the ‘spirit’ of Vatican II, the official Church documents can be shared by someone who just happens to have links to all of them and is more than willing to share.

The goings on in this complex world of ours can be overwhelming. Even more overwhelming, are the many self serving slants by which we are accosted by today’s media. How to dig through all of the fabrications and distortions? I’ve found that a finely tuned Facebook account can be just the ticket. Much like a personalized Drudge Report, with snippets of news and links to the rest of the story, Facebook provides a way to filter sources of information. At this point almost anyone who is anyone, as far as information goes, has a Facebook page. All we have to do is ‘follow’ the ones whose information we trust. National Catholic Register, Church Militant TV, and EWTN gather Catholic information for me – while I rely on like-minded friends to fill my feed (and message box) with articles about news – both secular and spiritual – from all sorts of other reliable sources.

Facebook Evangelization

There are few more effective ways for individuals to reach a large group of like-minded others – all over the world – than through electronic media. Whether through blogging, email, or Facebook, the number of lives we can touch is astounding. Of these options, Facebook provides a platform like no other. I relish learning about my faith and sharing what I\’ve learned via the various aspects of Facebook, whether through my wall, fan page, or through the myriad of groups to which I belong. Are you discerning the devotion of veiling? There\’s a group for that. Is pro-life advocacy your passion? There are so many pro-life pages it\’s difficult to keep up. I\’ve personally shared my 200+ pro-life memes with other pro-life advocates from all over the world. How about praying a Novena? Look no further than the posts from your friends; someone is always praying a Novena. Not only will they remind you every day, they’ll add your intention to theirs as well. I’ve had friends go to Mass, Adoration, and even Lourdes – and remember my intentions while there. Our five little grandchildren, who are saints in Heaven, have had prayers said for them at national shrines. So, you see, the benefit is a two-way street. The faithful generosity of my Facebook friends is awe-inspiring!

Laughter: the Best Medicine

Have you ever been home alone and had a really bad day? There you are, about to embark on a pity-party of astronomical proportions. Then you see a random posting from someone who’s having a similar day. ‘Not my circus, not my monkeys’ – an old Polish proverb. Inexplicably, you laugh out loud. The mood is lightened and you feel better equipped to just let go of your sour mood. Then there are the ‘kid quotes’ that are the daily fare of mothers on Facebook. Who can remain annoyed when Junior just saw a commercial and asked if his turtle could be affected by ‘reptile dysfunction’?

So while some folks out there might think that social media of any type is a big waste of time, some of us garner some rather tangible blessings. It’s another example of the wonderful multiplicity God’s children display. What works for me, might not work for you; but don’t discount the very real benefits I’ve reaped. I’ve contacted a group of cloistered nuns, who helped pray for a miracle that was realized. There have been many blessings from people who are undergoing similar trials – both spiritually and physically. Sometimes groups of Facebook friends even meet IRL (in real life), as was the case when our daughter traveled to Houston for cancer treatment. All in all, Facebook can help us to realize that we are not in this world alone. We really are little frogs in a big pond. The priest from Nigeria, my Catholic friend from the Philippines, and a couple gals in Alaska all help me learn a bit about other ways of life. And the ‘other’ Birgit in Germany helps me retrieve childhood memories of nursery rhymes, prayers, and festivals.

As with all things in this world, one man’s garbage can be another man’s treasure and we are wise to limit our Facebook interactions to a reasonable consumption. Temperance in all things, our mother used to warn. ‘Don’t be too extreme in any of your emotions or actions or activities, because any good thing can be overdone.’ What can be a helpful resource is also very capable of becoming sinful, if we are excessive. As for me, I include Facebook usage in my daily examination of conscience. It can be a powerful tool or a deadly distraction. The side of the Facebook coin on which you land is up to your own discretion and conscience. There are so many more examples to share. What are yours?


NOTE: This post first appeared on Catholic Stand

5 Thoughts on the Hobby Lobby Win - A Victory for All Religions

In a historic 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court of the United States sided with the contention that the HHS Mandate is unconstitutional. Although it's disappointing that the decision was so close, we are again reminded that when man stands for what is right, God is honored - no matter the outcome. Hobby Lobby spent countless dollars and months, in a fight from which they could have walked away. Strength in a time of duress is a sure sign of conviction. May God bless all those who stand strong in the face of adversity.

Here are some thoughts, from varying sources, to keep in mind as we continue to travel the road of defending Religious Liberty. May this be a turning of the tide.

1. "If you are discussing the Hobby Lobby case with friends, remind them that the administration was trying to force religious employers not only to buy contraceptives for their employees, but also abortifacient drugs... drugs which kill unborn human beings in the womb. Thank God it was overturned by one vote today."
~Fr-Andrew R. Moore (Facebook friend)

2. The justices' 5-4 decision is the first time that the high court has ruled that profit-seeking businesses can hold religious views under federal law. Justices: Can't Make Employers Cover Contraception

3. Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor, and Steven Breyer joined Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who wrote the dissent saying, "Reading the Act expansively, as the court does, raises a host of “Me, too” questions. Can an employer in business for profit opt out of coverage for blood transfusions, vaccinations, antidepressants, or medications derived from pigs, based on the employer’s sincerely held religious beliefs opposing those medical practices.”

As we can surmise from this verbiage, those who oppose this decision will have more to say and will try to win others over to their 'side'. There are more cases pending, including the one being brought by EWTN. We must remain vigilant in prayer, action, and discernment.

4. The 'tolerance' crowd is frightening when they lose! Only moments after the decision was announced, there were stories of threats to Hobby Lobby. Liberals call for burning Hobby Lobby after Supreme Court decision.  Pray for all involved - that love,  justice and cooler heads prevail.

5. While this decision is certainly a victory for Religious Liberty, there's much more work to be done. Although Hobby Lobby sought relief from ObamaCare, its owners/lawsuit only opposed four of 20 forms of contraception the mandate required employers to offer to employees at not cost.  The Catholic side of the HHS Mandate opposition coin maintains its objection to being required to provide all contraceptives, sterilization, and abortive 'services' because they are all recognized to be an intrinsic evil.

As we can surmise from this brief list, there remains much work to be done in God's vineyard. Let's band together, as the people of God, in a unified effort to promote the prevailing of justice.

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NOTE: I'll be adding more to this list as information becomes available. Feel free to share relevant stories and facts via the combox.

6. EWTN Wins Big Pro-Life Victory Against HHS Mandate on Heels of Hobby Lobby Decision

7. And the faulty analogies begin. From my combox: "You want the religious liberty of employers forcing their religious views on employees. If a Saudi Prince buys up WalMart can he force the staff to bow to Mecca five times a day? That's what this Hobby Lobby decision is about."

My response: "Your analogy is faulty. Refusing to PAY for others' contraception is not the same and depriving them from using it by buying it for themselves. I love to garden - should you be forced to buy my flowers? No, of course you shouldn't. But I can garden to my heart's content by buying my own supplies!"

The comment above inspired this meme.

8. Remember those 'Keep Your Rosaries Off My Ovaries' posters. I felt compelled to respond: 

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You can also find both the posters and a Facebook profile picture on the Designs by Birgit fan page.

Feel free to share this poster on Facebook.

Mom's Mistakes Strengthened Our Faith

The Catechism of the Catholic Church upholds the biblical directive that parents are the first (and most important) teachers of their children. What we often fail to realize is that what we do can have much more effect on our children than what we say or how we instruct. Who hasn’t seen one of their less than desirable actions or words mimicked by a child and felt a sudden blush of guilt? Sometimes, though, a child learns an important lesson from the mistakes in a parent’s life, and how they rise to the occasion. That was the case for me.

Mom, little brother and I - before he was taken.

Born in Germany, to a Lutheran father and Catholic mother, my earliest memories revolve around spirited fights between my parents. Although Mom was devout, he approached atheism, but she somehow managed to have my younger brother and I baptized as infants. It became painfully evident that my father was not a nice man. He cheated even before marriage and was abusive as well. Too young to fully understand the implications then, as I matured and later became an adult, the woeful tale became clearer. Long before I could fully comprehend it all, he left, covertly spiriting my younger brother away and leaving my mother as a divorcee with a young daughter. Through all of this turmoil, my mother maintained her faith.

By the time I was five, someone new had entered the picture. This American Airman was kind and gentle. I fondly remember playing circus, with him carrying me on his back, while my mother warmheartedly looked on. Things don’t always work out neatly, however. Red tape and language barriers between the Air Force, the United States government, and Germany greatly hindered attempted annulment proceedings. As a result, a civil marriage was performed and then a little sister was born into the family. I can still remember hearing that my baby sister had been denied baptism because she was born into an illicit marriage. My mother, however, tenaciously persisted and found a kindly old priest to confer the sacrament. To complete the family unit, I was also adopted and became the daughter of an American. By this time, any efforts to reunite us with my little brother had been exhausted. Our family of four moved to the U.S. without him; he could not be found.

Fast forward a few years, after assignments to several states and retirement from the Air Force, we settled in Dad’s native Kentucky. We had become a family of seven—Mom, Dad, and a collection of five children. There was still no annulment, but we had never lacked catechesis. We were all baptized, received First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and were frequently taken to Confession. The poignant vision of our mother, tears of joy (for us) and pain (for her situation) was impossible to ignore at each of these special occasions. As each of us matured in the faith life as Catholic citizens, she was our teacher, our champion, and immovable anchor. We never missed Mass, attended Catholic schools when available, and had priest friends who frequently visited our home. For all practical purposes, we appeared to be the optimal Catholic family, with one exception —our parents were unable to join us in an actively Catholic life.

All of that changed one beautiful October afternoon, when after a long, tedious, multi-linguistic annulment process, Mom and Dad were married in the Church. Our small church community and five children were present. The long awaited celebration of love and faith had finally become reality! After the reception, we decorated our family station wagon with cans and ribbons. The sign on the back read, ‘Congratulations, Mom and Dad—Just Married!’

A few years later, we were reunited with my missing brother, now an adult. He had been raised to think his father’s wife was his mother. It wasn’t until her death that he was told the truth: “She wasn’t your real mother. Your mother lives somewhere in Kentucky.” What a reunion that was! At last, all eight of us were united! It was a true lesson in faith, love, and hope. Our mother had surely illustrated a strong faith in the face of adversity. Mom died of breast cancer a few years later, at the young age of 58. Yet, she had been an incredible witness to us. She lived through many trials but never lost her faith. She even met her estranged husband at one point and offered her forgiveness. His comment to her? “There was one thing I could never break—your Catholic faith. I always respected that.” Her years of persistent love and hope had culminated in a family strengthened by adversity. She had illustrated, with her very life, what it means to live your Catholic faith.

All of us are adults now, with children and even grandchildren of our own. The Catholic faith persists as the most important thing in our lives. We have learned, from loving example, what it means to stay faithful—no matter where your choices lead you. Mistakes will be made but how you face the resulting strife, determines who you are. If nurtured and fed, Faith will always win out!

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Note: How My Mother's Mistakes Strengthened My Faith was first published at CatholicStand.com

When Fathers Day Isn’t Happy

Sometimes the ideal set forth by a day of celebration doesn't reflect your personal reality. The picture perfect vision of a Dad who has stood by you from the moment of your birth may not be a part of your experience. In this situation, a day set aside for celebrating fond memories might evoke pain and sadness instead. While those of us who suffer from a particular lack in our lives might find ourselves pondering the what if’s of the ideal, we don’t begrudge those whose experience reflects that which has not been gifted to us.

Fathers Day is one such day for me. I've had two fathers in my life. The first, was a painful reminder that not all marriages are made in heaven. His actions toward my mother, his taking of my little brother, and leaving me behind – all of this shaped my life but (thank God) didn't stunt my ability to love and feel loved. The second father came into my life when I was the daughter of a divorced mother who had been deprived of raising her first son – his father had spirited him away and he was not to be found.

Dad came along and adopted me and all seemed right with the world. My childhood, my five siblings, our family life, and adulthood – they all reflected a seamless adaptation to this family, brought together by mutual love and caring.

All that changed when our mother died at the young age of 58. Although we were all adults (the youngest was 21), we had grown up in a vibrant home filled with love and togetherness. We were the family all other families strove to be – lively, loving, and always actively living life to the fullest. What we didn't realize was that Mom had been the sole catalyst. As my youngest brother describes it, May 4, 1994 was the day Mom and Dad died. It changed our lives forever.

Even as adults we seek the comfort of the familiar. If we’re lucky, our family never loses this quality. For those of us who aren't so fortunate, the pain suffered can be almost debilitating. That’s where I stand on a day like today – Fathers Day 2014. While I relish the father my dearest husband has been to our children and am proud of the fathers our sons have become, the little girl in me longs to recover that which has been lost. 

A father, who walks away from his adult children (and their children and grandchildren) to another family may not produce the same type of damage as if had he acted thus at an earlier time, yet his rejection is still felt painfully and fully by his adult children. To have the same man who gave warm hugs, piggy back rides, and solace in times of tragedy walk away, severing all ties, is to have a hole in your heart – a longing of all of those days gone by. Unlike the holding close to fond memories of a parent who has died, this pain is different. Knowing he exists, however out of reach he may be, is to be tormented by the reality of rejection every day.

Scary face from happier times. <3

Happy Fathers Day, Dad. I’m missing you today and pray you are well. Perhaps someday…

5 Catholic Gifts for Dad

Tomorrow is Fathers Day and dads all over the country will receive cliche gifts - ties, beer, barbecue tongs, or shirts - just to name a few. Please don't be offended, I've been there too. Of course there will also be the handmade coupons and heartwarming drawings from their adoring little fans. But what if we encouraged our offspring to gift Dad with a more Catholic gift? Wouldn't that benefit both Dad and the kids? Faith in the family is so very important and Fathers Day is a perfect opportunity to remind all of its members of the importance of the spiritual head of the household. In keeping with this theme, I have listed five suggestions below. Of course, the possibilities are as vast as the unique nature of each family.

1. Have a Mass said for Dad - perhaps for his birthday or the feast day of his patron saint. This often neglected gift of the most perfect prayer can fit into most any occasion. What better way to tell Dad how much you love him and desire his eternal happiness?

2. Give him a spiritual bouquet. How about having the children make a card or coupons, listing the special prayers to be offered up for his eternal soul? Older children could offer a Rosary or the Divine Mercy Chaplet, while 'littles' could recite the prayers they know best. This gift could be presented with however much creativity (cards and pictures) or simplicity (just tell him your intention) as is characteristic for your family.

3. Does Dad have a favorite saint? Or perhaps a patron for whom he was named? Give him a holy card or a small statue of this saint. Be sure to have it blessed for him. He can display this on his desk or an area of the house he frequents. Not only will he be reminded to pray for the intercession of his saint, his heart will also be warmed each time he sees this reminder of how much he is loved - that his eternal soul is important to his family.

4. Make a date with Dad - go to a weekday Mass or Adoration. Create an atmosphere of devotion to Jesus while also sharing a special spiritual time with him. This could be coupled with lunch or a picnic in the park. Make it a joyful event, sharing what's most important in life - family and eternity.

5. Create a list or scrapbook outlining how Dad is the spiritual head of your household. Have each family member describe how he helps them grow - spiritually. This could be a simple video (iPhone anyone?) of each child speaking in his own words or a written note, gathered into a little booklet. Let Dad know how important he is to the family as you travel the road to Heaven - together, as a family.

I hope this little list will inspire you to share your thoughts with the Dad, Granddad, godfather, or any other male who is an inspiration to you. Don't forget that many of these ideas would also be appropriate for your priest - lest the part they play in our spiritual lives be forgotten.

"...For [priests], it is pastoral paternity, spiritual fatherhood, but this is still giving life, this is still becoming fathers."  ~ Pope Francis

God bless and Happy Fathers Day!

A New Priest, Nigerian Praise Songs, and Pentecost

Today, Pentecost, was an amazing faith experience for our parish. Newly ordained Father Emmanuel Cyril Udoh celebrated his Mass of thanksgiving with us. Fr. Emmanuel is from Nigeria and we have shared in his vocation as he came to us as a seminarian, then became a deacon, and finally a fully ordained priest. It's been a blessing to watch him grow in confidence as he was able to more fully minister to us as he strode confidently toward priesthood. His homilies were so inspiring and he always shared a beautiful smile - looking directly into one's eyes as those who are pure in spirit are prone to do.

Fr. Emmanuel's family - mother, father, sister - as well as a close friend joined us today. It was my husband's turn to lector, wearing his read tie, and our daughter sang joyfully about the Holy Spirit in the choir. I felt fully immersed, in a tangible way, in this beautiful day. How fitting that it was Pentecost! Father spoke of language barriers and shared that his homeland boasts a total of 250 native languages. Neatly, he tied in the multi-lingual miracle of Pentecost with the universality of the language of love. Genuine love honors no barriers - language or otherwise. It is something everyone understands.

As the Mass came to an end, we had the opportunity to speak with the Udoh family and then later share a brunch celebration with them. After the meal, our parish presented Fr. Emmanuel with a sick call set - engraved with his name and date of ordination. To our amazement, his family spontaneously broke into a song of thanksgiving! Later when the cards and notes from parishioners were presented, we were again treated to an outburst of song. The pure joy and unapologetic praise was something I will never forget. What a pleasure it has been to get to know this young man. He has all the markings of making a holy priest and a gift to those who are privileged to know him. We, the people of the parish of St. Elizabeth, are blessed to be among them.

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(L) Father posed with his father, mother, youngest sister, and good friend. (R) Erika and I put him to work right away by having him bless our handmade veils and bracelets.

Since I noticed that Mrs. Udoh covers during Mass and I make veils, I gave her a very special chapel veil that I made for Easter. Upon receiving the gift, she insisted on having our photo taken together. As you can tell from the result, some others were eager to be included in the moment as well.

Be sure to check out their wonderful praise songs in the videos below.

 

Father Emmanuel receives his sick call set from one of the parish council members.

His parents react to cards and notes from parishioners from St. Elizabeth.

Memorial Day - All Gave Some, Some Gave All

I've been reminded by those who know from painful experience, that this day - Memorial Day - is not National Picnic Day, or Get Drunk at the Lake Day, or Shopping Extravaganza Day or even Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors those soldiers who gave all - their very lives - in service to our country. We owe them a debt of gratitude that cannot be repaid - except maybe by our sincere prayers for their souls and for the loved ones they left behind. We honor them by remembering their sacrifice.

So go ahead, enjoy yourself. Bask in the freedom, sunshine, and camaraderie. But never forget at what expense these have been won and preserved for you. Only Jesus shows us a more perfect example...

For God so loved the world, as to give his only begotten Son; that whosoever believeth in him, may not perish, but may have life everlasting. John 3:16

Betrayed - Exposing the Anti-Girl Agenda of the Girl Scouts

What fuels your Pro-LIFE drive? Jane, Lifetime Member and one of four generations of Girls Scouts in her family, answers with a tragic tale of betrayal.

Betrayed

Guest Post by Jane Petry

The issue of life has always been important to our family. Even though important, none of us had truly spoken out in a public arena. All of this changed when I received an email from C-FAM Austin Ruse regarding the Girl Scouts and Planned Parenthood. This email spoke to me as a Lifetime Member of the G.S., four generations of our family were in fact members of the Girl Scouts.

Being betrayed by the G.S. was a blow to me personally. I had become a GS in the second grade and went on to earn the highest of all awards which is the now Gold Award. As a Catholic G.S. our troop, led by my mother, was the first group in St. Louis to receive its Marian Award. Our three daughters also earned this award. I was the Troop Organizer, Troop Consultant and leader of girls for more than 15-years. My husband helped with council events and stood with me as I was awarded medals for my work on the Catholic Committee. I dedicated 30-years to that committee in the St. Louis Archdioceses working with girls.

I was a proud Girl Scout, yet willful blindness never really entered into my thinking. I could no longer defend and promote a group, which was dear to my heart, when I realized it was in fact anti-girl. I, as a matter of fact felt guilt that I had unknowingly, as a mother, influenced our daughters. One of our daughters in fact even worked for the Girl Scout Council and later became a Girl Scout troop leader and a Boy Scout Den mother. Another daughter, as a TV news reporter, promoted stories regarding the G.S. and its program, Beyond Bars, and accompanied girls to a prison to visit their mothers. This daughter also sat on a task force for girls and hosted the Gold Award ceremony. We were proud and we were Girl Scouts. Soon granddaughters were added to the list of now four generations of Girl Scouts.

This all ended and my goal became one of exposing their agenda to all. This is not an easy message for a group with years of respect. I knew the indoctrination power this group had, could in fact, have an adverse effect on our culture. Certainly, this new intent and program of the G.S. was not in keeping with our Catholic faith. My Girl Scout background enabled me to soon learn that the G.S.’s new Journey Program had been developed to be a cult. I also knew that the wonderful leaders in our Catholic parishes would never consider implementing this most hideous agenda with their girls. Sadly the Girl Scout Program no longer consisted of badge work, as in prior years, and the majority of troops were only a social club. Unknowingly, parents fed the G.S. promotion of abortion agendas and sexual promotion. Each innocent child that was registered and each box of cookies sold, in fact, fed the evilness of which the Girl Scouts had become. It was clear the organization had become a liberal, progressive, feminist organization intent on changing all that moral parents hold to for their daughters.

Mahatma Gandhi gives us this: First they ignore you...Then they laugh at you...Then they fight you...Then, you win.

I was asked by someone unnamed, “Jane, why are you doing this?” I simply said, “I had not figured out how to tell God no.” There are a number of courageous women involved in this grass roots effort to save our girls. What, as parents and leaders, do we say to our girls if we allow them to be a part of this group that is now known for its lack of morals and values? Our Lord gives us his word as to the consequences of leading a child to sin.

I have said from the start and each day in prayer; Lord let your will be done. I have seen the tremendous power of prayer as that plan has played out beyond the vision of anyone working on this could have imagined. Truly, this has been God’s plan. We are only laborers in his vineyard. To have been chosen is a gift and I proudly accept the challenge. All for the Glory of God.

In His Name,
Jane E. Petry

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For more information about how girls are being betrayed by the Girl Scouts, check out the following links:

Honest Girl Scouts - See a state by state listing of corruption in the Girl Scouts.

RUSE: The Girl Scout Sex Guide - Washington Times
Girl Scouts and Planned Parenthood - YouTube video of GS CEO, admits connection of GS and Planned Parenthood - in her own words. 
Girl Scouts Face Abortion Controversy - Breitbart - 

"The documentary shown to the Girl Scouts celebrates abortion, lesbian sex, and sexual freedom. The PBS trailer of the film includes an older woman laughing about faking orgasms--not entirely the kind of thing the family would sit down and watch while dunking Tagalongs into a glass of milk."
“The documentary ends by proclaiming the women’s movement an ‘unfinished’ revolution which must be spread worldwide,” reports Hasson.

Girl Scouts and Planned Parenthood: Are the Cookies Finally Crumbling? - Heavily linked/sourced article from Catholic Stand. This was also shared by major Catholic publications.

100 Questions for the Girl Scouts - Many links and examples.

Speak Now Girl Scouts - This group works to expose the GS. Many examples.

My Girl Scout Council 

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Betrayed - Exposing the Anti-Girl Agenda of the Girl Scouts is the latest installment of guest posts in reply to my question, "What fuels your pro-LIFE drive?" 

The other posts in this series are:

I am One of the Faces of Abortion - My Face Looks Just Like Yours

What Stirs Your Pro-Life Heart? Béatrice Comes Full Circle

Pro-Life Science: The Path of Greatest Resistance

You can also read my personal testimony here: 

14 and Pregnant - Is My Life Ruined?

Veiling and You: 5 Things Catholic Boys and Girls Should Know

The devotion of wearing a veil is seeing a definite upswing throughout the country. This is evidenced by first time sales by veiling companies as well as the rapid growth of veiling groups in social media. One such group to which I belong, has seen its numbers grow from 10 to 700+ - since February! Lively discussions, education, and camaraderie are seen on a daily hourly basis. Today, one of the ladies posed a question:

I'm thinking my daughter and I will wear full veils this weekend. Any tips on veil apologetics for a 6 year old?

Her question was the perfect catalyst to set me into action. I wanted to include young men in the discussion because they should also be made aware. After all, we are training them to respect women and their special place in God's plan. This may be an evolving list, but here are five ideas I can readily share:

1.) Women are very special in the eyes of God. He made them to nurture new life and to be the complimentary (different, yet equally important) partner to men. The most special woman ever born was Mary, the Mother of God. God asked something very difficult from her - he wanted her to be the mother of His Son, Jesus. When she said 'yes' to Him, she showed us how we should react when we are asked to do something for God. If you look at pictures or statues of Mary, you will see that she has her head covered with a veil. One of the ways we can try to be like her is to do the same. Saying 'yes' to God, no matter what He asks, and showing that we understand He created us in a special way by wearing a veil, are two ways we can honor Him.

2.) Since women and girls are special and want to honor God, they should show respect when they go to His house. When we go to an important place or have a special occasion in our lives, we dress a certain way. We wear our very best on Easter, Christmas, birthdays, and weddings. When we go to God's house (church), we are certainly going somewhere very important! That's why we should do our very best to give honor to God by looking our best. In addition to wearing their best clothing, women and girls can also show Him how much they love Him and His mother by wearing a veil.

3.) Notice things in the church itself. You will see that the altars are decorated with flowers and candles. We have beautiful statues and Stations of the Cross. We also see that holy things are often covered. During Holy Week, the statues and crucifix are covered with a veil. The Eucharist, which is Jesus Himself, is also covered when not being given to the people during Holy Communion. Even the tabernacle has a veil behind its doors - to show how special the Contents are. As the beautiful flowers in God's garden, women and girls can put on a veil to show that they know they are His.

4.) Wearing a veil can also be a big help when we are trying very hard to concentrate during Mass. Do you ever notice that sometimes you feel distracted and start daydreaming during Mass? Maybe someone beside you is fidgeting or maybe there is something else going on that keeps you from your prayers. Wearing a veil can keep you on track - just like using Rosary beads to pray can keep you focused on what you're supposed to be doing.

5.) Wearing a veil whenever you're in church is a way to show what's going on inside (your thoughts, prayers, and love of God), on the outside. The priest wears his vestments to show us that he is acting in the person of Christ during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Married people wear a wedding ring to show that they belong to each other. Religious sisters and nuns wear habits to show that they have given their lives to Jesus. Wearing a veil shows that a woman or girl belongs to God. It helps others see that they are serious about doing what God wants them to do.

I hope this brief list will help begin a fruitful discussion of veiling with your children. Please share any other thoughts in the comment section below. If you know of someone who is contemplating the devotion of veiling, feel free to share this post. God bless!