Association of Pauline Cooperators

SEVENTY PER CENT OF WORLD POPULATION LIVE IN COUNTRIES WITH HIGH RESTRICTIONS ON RELIGIOUS BELIEFS (VIS article)

2012-03-07T14:19:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

Let us include in our prayers the realization of the urgent intention (shown in bold letters below) mentioned by Archbishop Tomasi as contained in the Vatican Information Service article quoted below:

"...Greater socialjustice provides fertile ground for the implementation of all human rights.Religions are communities based on convictions and their freedom guarantees acontribution of moral values without which the freedom of everyone is notpossible. For this reason", Archbishop Tomasi concluded, "it becomesan urgent and beneficial responsibility of the international community tocounteract the trend of increasing violence against religious groups and ofmistaken and deceptive neutrality that in fact aims at neutralisingreligion".

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SEVENTYPER CENT OF WORLD POPULATION LIVE IN COUNTRIES WITH HIGH RESTRICTIONS ONRELIGIOUS BELIEFS

VaticanCity, (VIS) - "Terrorist attacks on Christians in Africa, the Middle Eastand Asia increased 309 per cent between 2003 and 2010. Approximately 70 percent of the world’s population lives in countries with high restrictions onreligious beliefs and practices, and religious minorities pay the highestprice". These words were pronounced on 1 March by Archbishop Silvano M.Tomasi C.S., permanent observer of the Holy See to the United Nations atGeneva, during the course of the nineteenth ordinary session of the HumanRights Council.

SpeakingEnglish, Archbishop Tomasi recalled how, "in general, rising restrictionson religion affect more than 2.2 billion people. Those affected have eitherlost the protection of their societies or have experienced some government-imposedand unjust restrictions, or have become victims of violence resulting from animpulsive bigotry".

Amongthe causes of this phenomenon, the archbishop mentioned "the evolvingpolitical situation, wrong perceptions of the role of religion, expediency, andsubtle ambiguities in the understanding of secularism". In the currentsituation, it is vital for the international community "to assure theprotection of people in their exercise of freedom of religion and religiouspractice".

Inthis context, the Holy See observer noted that States must guarantee all theircitizens the right to religious freedom, at both the individual and communitylevel. Freedom of religion is not a derived or granted right, "but afundamental and inalienable right of the human person. ... The task ofgovernment is not to define religion, ... but to confer upon faith communitiesa juridical personality so that they can function peacefully within a legalframework.

"Respectfor the religious freedom of everyone may be at stake in places where theconcept of “State religion” is recognised, especially when the latter becomesthe source of unjust treatment of others, whether they believe in other faithsor have none".

Thearchbishop went on: "Above the institutional considerations, the criticalproblem facing the promotion and protection of human rights in the area ofreligious freedom is the intolerance that leads to violence and to the killingof many innocent people each year simply because of their religiousconvictions. The realistic and collective responsibility, therefore, is tosustain mutual tolerance and respect of human rights and a greater equalityamong citizens of different religions in order to achieve a healthy democracywhere the public role of religion and the distinction between religious andtemporal spheres are recognised. ... But to achieve this desirable goal, thereis a need to overcome a culture that devalues the human person and is intent oneliminating religion from public life".

"Religionsare not a threat, but a resource", he said. "They contribute to thedevelopment of civilisations, and this is good for everyone. Their freedom andactivities should be protected so that the partnership between religiousbeliefs and societies may enhance the common good. ... The educational systemand the media have a major role to play by excluding prejudice and hatred fromtextbooks, from newscasts and from newspapers, and by disseminating accurateand fair information on all component groups of society.

"But lack of educationand information, that facilitates an easier manipulation of people forpolitical advantages, is too often linked to underdevelopment, poverty, lack ofaccess to effective participation in the management of society. Greater socialjustice provides fertile ground for the implementation of all human rights.Religions are communities based on convictions and their freedom guarantees acontribution of moral values without which the freedom of everyone is notpossible. For this reason", Archbishop Tomasi concluded, "it becomesan urgent and beneficial responsibility of the international community tocounteract the trend of increasing violence against religious groups and ofmistaken and deceptive neutrality that in fact aims at neutralisingreligion".

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Many thanks for your attentive co-operation in prayer. May Almighty God bless you and all your loved ones with His protection; and with spiritual and temporal blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. Amen.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

Call to prayer for protection of religious freedom

2012-03-03T01:08:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

This Lent let us unite & offer our prayers for the salvation of souls and the preservation of religious freedom.

Please see self-explanatory letter dated 2 March 2012 from Cardinal Timothy Dolan, President of United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, addressed to his brother bishops. To access website, click here: USCCB.

Also, let us uphold the freedom of religion which is enshrined in the The Universal Declaration of Human Rights:

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Article 18.

Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.

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May God bless us through Jesus Christ, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Light. Amen.

Mary Queen of Apostles, pray for us.

Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, pray for us.

Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.

Many thanks in advance for your co-operation. Best regards.

In Christ's peace,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

SOLIDARITY WITH CHRISTIANS IN THE HOLY LAND (VIS article)

2012-03-02T00:19:00.003-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

This Good Friday, might we be in a position to keep solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters in the Holy Land? There are many ways to do our duty of restoring the spiritual patrimony handed down to us, such as by our prayer, by concrete assistance, and by pilgrimages. We could also give out of the kindness of our hearts a donation to the traditional Good Friday collection for the Holy Land. This is a good practice observed in the Church of the Holy Family also known as United Nations Parish on 315 East 47th St., New York City.

The VIS article below raises our awareness about the Holy Land and encourages us to promote prayer initiatives and fraternal charity towards Christians of Jerusalem, Israel, Palestine and neighboring countries. May God grant us the necessary temporal and spiritual graces to follow the inspiration of Cardinal Leonardo Sandri and Archbishop Cyril Vasil S.J. as contained in their communication to the bishops world-wide.

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SOLIDARITYWITH CHRISTIANS IN THE HOLY LAND

VaticanCity, 1 March 2012 (VIS) - Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of theCongregation for the Oriental Churches, has sent a letter to the bishops of theworld concerning the traditional Good Friday collection for the Holy Land. Theletter, which also bears the signature of Archbishop Cyril Vasil S.J.,secretary of the congregation, has the purpose of sensitising the CatholicChurch around the world with regard to the Holy Land, and of promotinginitiatives of prayer and fraternal charity towards Christians of Jerusalem,Israel, Palestine and neighbouring countries.

"TheSon of God made man, after having crossed this land announcing the Kingdom andconfirming the word with mighty works, wonders and signs, went up to the HolyCity to immolate Himself", reads the English-language version of theletter. "From that time, every Christian finds himself at home in thatCity and in that Land. This is possible thanks to the pastors in this place,who, by the will of the Lord Jesus, continue in our day also to gather ourbrothers and sisters in the faith to celebrate the love of Him Who 'makes allthings new'.

"TheCongregation for the Oriental Churches hereby reminds the bishops of the entireworld of the unceasing request of Pope Benedict XVI that the mission of theChurch in the Holy Places be generously supported. Although specificallypastoral, this mission at the same time offers a praiseworthy social service toall without exception. In this way, fraternity, which can overcome division anddiscrimination, increases and gives renewed impetus to ecumenical dialogue andinter-religious collaboration. This constitutes an admirable work of peace andreconciliation, which is all the more necessary today, as we share the HolyFather’s preoccupation 'for the people of those countries where hostilities andacts of violence continue, particularly Syria and the Holy Land'".

"Thisyear, Good Friday seems more fitting than ever as a sign of the needs of bothpastors and faithful, which are bound up with the sufferings of the entireMiddle East. For the disciples of Christ, hostility is often the daily breadwhich nourishes the faith and sometimes makes the echo of martyrdom. Christianemigration is exacerbated by the lack of peace, which tends to impoverish hope,changing it into the fear of facing alone a future that seems to exist only inthe abandonment of one’s own country.

"Nonetheless,as was the case for the Gospel’s grain of wheat, so the trials of Christians inthe Holy Land prepare without doubt a brighter tomorrow. The dawning of thisnew day, however, requires support now for schools, medical assistance,critical housing, meeting places, and everything else that the generosity ofthe Church has devised".

"Wehave the duty to restore the spiritual patrimony which we have received fromthese Christians’ two millennia of fidelity to the truth of the faith. We canand must do this by our prayer, by concrete assistance, and by pilgrimages. TheYear of Faith, which marks the fiftieth anniversary of Vatican Council II, willprovide particular motivation for us to direct our steps towards that Land. ...Next Good Friday, around the Cross of Christ, let us be conscious of beingtogether with these brothers and sisters of ours. May the loneliness that is attimes strongly felt in their situation be overcome by our fraternity".

Alsomade public today was a report prepared by the Custody of the Holy Land (aprovince of the Order of Friars Minor with responsibility for the Holy Places),listing the works carried out with the proceeds of the Good Friday collectionof 2011. Restoration and maintenance has been carried out on numerous shrines,churches and convents in the Holy Land including such places as Bethlehem,Jerusalem (Gethsemane and the Shrine of the Flagellation, among others), Jaffa,Magdala and Mount Tabor. Other initiatives sought to improve welcome servicesfor pilgrims.

A significant part of theproceeds was used to fund student scholarships, to help small business, and tobuild houses, schools and areas for children. Other recipients of aid includedfamilies, parish communities, the poor and cultural institutions.

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Our Lady of Peace, pray for us.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

POPE BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR MARCH (VIS article)

2012-03-01T23:18:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Let us keep our unity with Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in praying for the intentions he set out this month of March 2012. See VIS article below:

BENEDICTXVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR MARCH

VaticanCity, 1 March 2012 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for Marchis: "That the whole world may recognise the contribution of women to thedevelopment of society".

His mission intention is:"That the Holy Spirit may grant perseverance to those who sufferdiscrimination, persecution or death for the name of Christ, particularly inAsia".

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Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.

Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.

Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, pray for us.

Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

LENT: PRAYER, PENANCE AND CHARITY TO RENEW OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

2012-02-27T21:42:00.000-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

This Lent we are so fortunate to learn from the life of Jesus Christ Our Lord who underwent temptation in the wilderness to defend us with His help and to instruct us with His example (according to St. Leo the Great).

Might we have the capacity to strive daily to put God in the center of our lives, obey His laws and accept His will, invoke Divine Providence in order to overcome any tendencies to fall into the tragic trap of temptation & its dangers? His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI illuminates the way forward -- path to take this Lent. The Holy Father presents man's situation and points us to Jesus Christ, Our Lord, the Way, Truth and Life. The Holy Father stated that: "the temptation to remove God, toregulate ourselves and the world counting only on our own abilities, has alwaysbeen present in the history of man." He said, "man is neverfree from temptation, but we can become stronger than any enemy 'byfollowing the Lord every day with patience and humility, learning to build ourlives not without Him or as if He did not exist, but in Him and with Him,because He is the source of true life." See full VIS article below:

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LENT:PRAYER, PENANCE AND CHARITY TO RENEW OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

VaticanCity, 26 February 2012 (VIS) - In his reflections before praying the Angelusthis morning with faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, Benedict XVIcommented on the Gospel reading from this Sunday's liturgy, St. Mark'snarrative of the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness.

"TheLord chose to undergo the attack of the tempter so as to defend us with Hishelp and instruct us with His example", said the Holy Father quoting atext written by St. Leo the Great. This episode teaches us that man is neverfree from temptation, but we can become stronger than any enemy "byfollowing the Lord every day with patience and humility, learning to build ourlives not without Him or as if He did not exist, but in Him and with Him,because He is the source of true life. The temptation to remove God, toregulate ourselves and the world counting only on our own abilities, has alwaysbeen present in the history of man", the Pope said.

InChrist, God addresses man "in an unexpected way, with a closeness that isunique, tangible and full of love. God became incarnate and entered man's worldin order to take sin upon Himself, to overcome evil and to bring man back intoGod's world. But His announcement was accompanied by a request to respond tosuch a great gift. Indeed, Jesus said "repent, and believe in the goodnews'. This is an invitation to have faith in God and to convert every day ofour lives to His will, orienting our every action and our every thought towardswhat is good. The period of Lent is a good time to renew and strengthen ourrelationship with God through daily prayer, acts of penance and works offraternal charity".

Following the Angelus thePope greeted pilgrims in a number of different languages, asking them to prayfor him as he and the Roman Curia retire for their Lenten spiritual exercises,which begin this evening.

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May God bless us with the temporal and spiritual graces to walk in the path of prayer, penance and charity to renew our relationship with God this Lent. Amen.

Let us continue to integrate in our daily lives the practice of Lectio Divina, a prayerful reading of the Sacred Scriptures which nourishes our souls.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

REMEMBERING OUR MORTALITY, WELCOMING GOD AND HOPING FOR THE RESURRECTION (VIS article)

2012-02-24T00:06:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Peace! As we make preparations at the start of our Lenten journey, let us read and ruminate on His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI's Ash Wednesday homily, as contained in the following VIS article.

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REMEMBERINGOUR MORTALITY, WELCOMING GOD AND HOPING FOR THE RESURRECTION

VaticanCity, 23 February 2012 (VIS) - Yesterday afternoon, Ash Wednesday, Benedict XVIpresided over the traditional penitential procession from the church of St.Anselm on Rome's Aventine Hill to the nearby basilica of Santa Sabina where hecelebrated Mass. Cardinals, archbishops, bishops, the Benedictine monks of St.Anselm, the Dominican Fathers of Santa Sabina and lay faithful participated inthe event.

Followingthe procession, Benedict XVI celebrated the Eucharist and the rite of theimposition of the ashes. He received ashes from Cardinal Jozef Tomko, titularof the basilica, then distributed ashes to the cardinals and bishops present,as well as to various members of the faithful. Following the Gospel reading thePope pronounced his homily, explaining that ashes are "an element ofnature which through the liturgy become a sacred symbol, one of greatimportance on this day which marks the beginning of the Lenten journey".

"Ashesare one of those material signs which bring the cosmos into the liturgy",he said. "Although they are not a sacramental sign, they are nonethelessassociated with prayer and the sanctification of Christian people". Infact, before imposing them on the heads of the faithful, the priest blesses theashes, and one of the formulae he may use to do so refers to a passage fromGenesis: "You are dust and to dust you shall return", the words withwhich God concludes His judgement after the original sin.

Becauseof that sin, God cursed the earth whence Adam had come. Indeed, following thecreation of the world, God had "formed man from the dust of the ground,and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a livingbeing". Thus, the Holy Father explained, "the sign of the ashes leadsus into the great narrative of the creation in which, through the image of thedust of the earth moulded by God and animated by His breath, it is recountedthat human beings are a unique combination of matter and divine breath. ... Inthe narrative of Genesis, we see how the symbol of dust undergoes a negativetransformation because of sin. Before the fall, the earth had a potential whichwas entirely good", recalling "God's creative act which was entirelyopen to life". Following sin and the subsequent divine curse, "itbecame a sign of the inexorable destiny of death: 'You are dust and to dust youshall return'".

Theearth, then, shares man's destiny and only concedes him its fruits in exchangefor much "toil" and "the sweat of his brow". Nonetheless,"this curse of the earth has a medicinal function for man, whom theearth’s recalcitrance helps to maintain within his own limits, to recognise hisown nature. ... This means that God's intentions, which are always benign, aremore profound that any curse. The curse, in fact, was due not to God but tosin; yet God could not but inflict it because He respects man's freedom and itsconsequences, even its negative consequences". However the Lord, alongwith "just punishment, also wished to announce the way of salvation, whichpassed by way of the earth, by way of that 'dust', that 'flesh' which wasassumed by the Word".

Theliturgy of Ash Wednesday uses the words of Genesis in this perspective ofsalvation, "as an invitation to penance and humility, to remember our ownmortality; not so as to give way to desperation but to accept, as part of thatmortality, the inconceivable closeness of God Who, beyond death, opens the wayto resurrection, to heaven finally and ultimately rediscovered".

"Thepossibility we have for divine forgiveness essentially depends on the fact thatGod Himself, in the person of His Son, chose to share our condition, but notthe corruption of sin. God caused His Son to rise again with the power of theHoly Spirit and Jesus, the new Adam, became ... the first fruit of the new creation".

"The God Who drove ourfirst ancestors from the Garden of Eden", Benedict XVI affirmed inconclusion, "sent His Son to our earth devastated by sin, ... so that we,prodigal children, might return to our true homeland, penitent and redeemed byHis mercy. Thus may it be for each of us, for all believers, for all men andwomen who humbly recognise their need for salvation".

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May God abundantly grant his blessings upon His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, and the bishops and priests, who shepherd us all during this solemn Lenten season to be not afraid to live with a penitent and humble heart because Jesus Christ is with us now and forever. Amen. May God grant us all fortitude, mercy and peace as we make our approach to meditate, contemplate, pray with the Sacred Scriptures & recall the passion, crucifixion and death of Our Lord Jesus Christ and look forward to celebrate His glorious resurrection on Easter. Amen

Jesus Christ, Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.

Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.

Apostles Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us.

Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

LENT, A TIME TO SHOULDER OUR CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITIES (VIS article)

2012-02-22T09:20:00.003-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

Today Ash Wednesday, we are reminded: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." Let us give thanks to God for the life that we have all received. May God grant us the grace to help us reach the transformation we seek, in order to follow Jesus Christ, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. During our Lenten journey let us bring to the altar our prayers for God's mercy and the sanctification of humanity.

His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI leads us to our trajectory, as he explained about: "Thetime leading up to Easter is a time of 'metanoia', a time of change andpenance, a time which identifies our human lives and our entire history as aprocess of conversion, which begins to move now in order to meet the Lord atthe end of time". (See VIS article below.)

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LENT,A TIME TO SHOULDER OUR CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

VaticanCity, 22 February 2012 (VIS) - During his general audience this morning, theHoly Father dedicated his catechesis to the subject of Lent (which beginstoday, Ash Wednesday), the period of forty days leading up to the EasterTriduum, memorial of the passion, death and resurrection of Our Lord JesusChrist.

BenedictXVI reminded the 7,500 pilgrims gathered in the Paul VI Hall that, in the earlydays of the Church, Lent was a time in which catechumens began their journey offaith and conversion prior to receiving Baptism. Later, all the faithful wereinvited to participate in this period of spiritual renewal. Thus "theparticipation of the whole community in the various stages of the Lentenjourney underlines an important dimension of Christian spirituality: the factthat redemption is available not just for the few, but for everyone, thanks toChrist's death and resurrection".

"Thetime leading up to Easter is a time of 'metanoia', a time of change andpenance, a time which identifies our human lives and our entire history as aprocess of conversion, which begins to move now in order to meet the Lord atthe end of time".

TheChurch calls this period "Quadragesima", a period of forty days whichhas precise references in Holy Scripture. Indeed, "forty is the symbolicnumber with which the Old and New Testaments represent the most importantmoments of the People of God's experience of faith. It is a figure whichexpresses a time of expectation, purification, return to the Lord, awarenessthat God is faithful to His promises; ... a time within which we must make ourchoice, shoulder our responsibilities without further delay. It is a time formature decisions".

Noahspent forty days in the Ark during the Flood, then had to wait forty days morebefore he could return to dry land. Moses spent forty days on Mount Sinai tocollect the Commandments. The Jewish People spent forty years wandering in thedesert, then enjoyed forty years of peace under the government of the Judges.The inhabitants of Niniveh made forty days penance to obtain God's forgiveness.The reigns of Saul, David and Solomon, the first kings of Israel, lasted fortyyears each. In the New Testament, Jesus spent forty days praying in thewilderness before beginning His public life and, following the resurrection, Hespent forty days instructing His disciples before ascending to heaven.

Theliturgy of Lent, the Pope explained, "has the aim of facilitating ourjourney of spiritual renewal in the light of this long biblical experience.Above all, it helps us to imitate Jesus Who, in the forty days He spent in thewilderness, taught us to overcome temptation through the Word of God. ... Jesuswent into the wilderness in order to be in profound contact with the Father.This was a constant aspect of Christ's earthly life. He always sought outmoments of solitude to pray to His Father and abide in intimate and exclusivecommunion with Him, before retuning among mankind. But in the 'wilderness' ...Jesus was beset by temptation and the seduction of the Evil One, who suggesteda messianic path, a path which was far from God's plans because it involvedpower, success and dominion, not love and the total gift of self on theCross".

BenedictXVI went on to suggest that the Church herself is a pilgrim in the"wilderness" of the world and history. This wilderness is made up of"the aridity and poverty of words, life and values, of secularism and theculture of materialism which enclose people within a worldly horizon and detachthem from any reference to transcendence. In such an atmosphere the sky aboveus is dark, because veiled with clouds of selfishness, misunderstanding anddeceit. Nonetheless, even for the Church today, the wilderness can become aperiod of grace, because we have the certainty that even from the hardest rockGod can cause the living water to gush forth, water which quenches thirst andrestores strength".

"DuringLent", said the Holy Father in conclusion, "may we discover freshcourage to accept situations of difficulty, affliction and suffering withpatience and faith, aware that, from the darkness, the Lord will cause a newday to shine forth. And if we have been faithful to Jesus, following Him on theway of the Cross, the luminous world of God, the world of light, truth and joy,will be ours again".

Atthe end of the catechesis Benedict XVI greeted pilgrims in various languages.Speaking Polish he highlighted how "fasting and prayer, penance and worksof mercy" are the principal means of preparation for Easter.

The Pope also addressed aspecial greeting to faithful of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady ofWalsingham, who were present in the Paul VI Hall. The ordinariate was set up alittle over a year ago for groups of Anglican clergy and faithful wishing toenter into full visible communion with the Catholic Church. The generalaudience ended with the apostolic blessing.

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Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

JESUS' PRAYER BEFORE DYING (VIS article)

2012-02-21T22:39:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

As we approach Lent, on the eve of Ash Wednesday 2012, I wish for us to revisit a VIS article (Feb. 8, 2012) on Jesus' Prayer Before Dying from which we could learn from His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI about God's great love.

Let us join in prayer with our dear Pope Benedict XVI. The Holy Father said, "In our prayers, let us bring God our daily crosses, in thecertainty that He is present and listens to us. The cry of Jesus reminds usthat in prayer we must cross the barrier of 'self' and our own problems, andopen ourselves to the needs and sufferings of others. May the prayer of thedying Jesus on the cross teach us to pray with love for so many brothers andsisters who feel the burden of daily life, who are experiencing moments ofdifficulty, who suffer and hear no words of comfort, that they may feel thelove of God Who never abandons us."

VIS article of Feb. 8, 2012 follows:

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JESUS'PRAYER BEFORE DYING

VaticanCity, (VIS) - The prayer of Jesus at the moment of His death, as narrated bySt. Mark and St. Matthew was the theme of Benedict XVI's catechesis during hisgeneral audience, held this morning in the Paul VI Hall.

"Inthe structure of the narrative", the Pope said, "Jesus' cry rises atthe end of three hours of darkness, which had descended upon the earth frommidday to three o'clock in the afternoon. Those three hours of darkness were,in their turn, the continuation of an earlier period which also lasted three hoursand began with the crucifixion. ... In biblical tradition darkness has anambivalent meaning: it is a sign of the presence and action of evil, but alsoof the mysterious presence and action of God Who is capable of vanquishing alldarkness. ... In the scene of Jesus' crucifixion darkness envelops the earth,the darkness of death in which the Son of God immerses Himself, in order bringlife with His act of love".

"Insultedby various categories of people, surrounded by a darkness covering everything,at the very moment in which He is facing death Jesus' cry shows that, alongwith His burden of suffering and death apparently accompanied by abandonmentand the absence of God, He is entirely certain of the closeness of the Father,Who approves this supreme act of love and of total giving of Self, although wedo not hear His voice from on high as we did in earlier moments".

Yet,the Holy Father asked, "what is the meaning of Jesus' prayer? The cryaddressed to the Father: 'my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'" Heexplained that "the words Jesus addresses to the Father are the beginningof Psalm 22, in which the Psalmist expresses the tension between, on the onehand, being left alone and, on the other, the certain knowledge of God'spresence amongst His people. ... The Psalmist speaks of a 'cry' to express allthe suffering of his prayer before the apparently absent God. At moments ofanguish prayer becomes a cry.

"Thisalso happens in our own relationship with the Lord", the Pope added."In the face of difficult and painful situations, when it seems that Goddoes not hear, we must not be afraid to entrust Him with the burden we arecarrying in our hearts, we must not be afraid to cry out to Him in oursuffering".

"Jesusprays at the moment of ultimate rejection by man, at the moment of abandonment.However, He is aware that God the Father is present even at the instant inwhich He is experiencing the human drama of death. Yet nonetheless, a questionarises in our hearts: how is it possible that such a powerful God does notintervene to save His Son from this terrible trial?"

TheHoly Father explained that "it is important to understand that the prayerof Jesus is not the cry of a person who meets death with desperation, nor thatof a person who knows he has been abandoned. At that moment Jesus appropriatesPsalm 22, the Psalm of the suffering people of Israel, at that moment He takesupon Himself not only the suffering of His people, but also that of all men andwomen oppressed by evil. ... And He takes all this to the heart of God in thecertainty that His cry will be heard in the resurrection. ... His is asuffering in communion with us and for us, it derives from love and carrieswithin itself redemption and the victory of love.

"Thepeople at the foot of Jesus' cross were unable to understand, they thought Hiscry was a supplication to Elijah. ... We likewise find ourselves, ever andanew, facing the 'today' of suffering, the silence of God - many times we sayas much in our prayers - but we also find ourselves facing the 'today' of theResurrection, of the response of God Who took our sufferings upon Himself, tocarry them with us and give us the certain hope that they will beovercome".

"In our prayers",the Holy Father concluded, "let us bring God our daily crosses, in thecertainty that He is present and listens to us. The cry of Jesus reminds usthat in prayer we must cross the barrier of 'self' and our own problems, andopen ourselves to the needs and sufferings of others. May the prayer of thedying Jesus on the cross teach us to pray with love for so many brothers andsisters who feel the burden of daily life, who are experiencing moments ofdifficulty, who suffer and hear no words of comfort, that they may feel thelove of God Who never abandons us."

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May God grant and sustain you with special blessings as we enter Lent 2012.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

CATHEDRA OF PETER IS A SIGN OF CHRIST'S AUTHORITY, BASED ON FAITH AND LOVE (VIS article)

2012-02-20T10:03:00.003-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

Let us join in prayer of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in entrusting himself and the new cardinals to the protection of the Blessed Virgin,Mother of the Church, that she might "help me and my collaborators to worktirelessly for the unity of the People of God, and to announce the message ofsalvation to all people, humbly and courageously performing the service oftruth in charity".

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CATHEDRAOF PETER IS A SIGN OF CHRIST'S AUTHORITY, BASED ON FAITH AND LOVE

VaticanCity, 19 February 2012 (VIS) - Following this morning's concelebration of theEucharist with the twenty-two cardinals created in Saturday's consistory, theHoly Father appeared at the window of his study to pray the Angelus withfaithful and pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Beforethe Marian prayer, the Holy Father reminded people that "this Sunday is aparticularly joyful one here in the Vatican, because of yesterday's consistoryin which I created twenty-two new cardinals. This morning I had the joy ofconcelebrating the Eucharist with them in St. Peter's Basilica, over the tombof the Apostle whom Jesus called to be the 'rock' upon which to build HisChurch. I therefore invite you all to pray for these our venerable brothers,who are now more deeply committed to collaborating with me in guiding theuniversal Church, and to bearing witness to the Gospel even unto the sacrificeof their lives. This is the significance of their red garments: the colour ofblood and of love".

BenedictXVI also recalled the fact that yesterday's consistory took place against thebackdrop of the Feast of the Cathedra of St. Peter, which had been broughtforward to this Sunday to ensure it did not coincide with Ash Wednesday and thebeginning of Lent. The cathedra, the Pope explained, "is the seat reservedfor the bishop. ... The Cathedra of St. Peter ... is the symbol of the specialmission that Peter and his successors have to feed the flock of Christ and tokeep it united in faith and charity. ... This particular duty devolves upon thecommunity of Rome and its Bishop because it was in this city that the ApostlesPeter and Paul spilt their blood, along with many other martyrs. Thus we returnto the witness of blood and charity. The Cathedra of Peter is a sign of authority:the authority of Christ which is founded upon faith and love".

In conclusion, the HolyFather entrusted the new cardinals to the protection of the Blessed Virgin,Mother of the Church, that she might "help me and my collaborators to worktirelessly for the unity of the People of God, and to announce the message ofsalvation to all people, humbly and courageously performing the service oftruth in charity".

UNQUOTE

Many thanks. Best regards.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO CARDINAL TIMOTHY MICHAEL DOLAN OF NEW YORK

2012-02-19T15:44:00.004-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

On behalf of Pauline Cooperators, we have the honor in New York to join you all in offering our best wishes to and prayers for Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan on the occasion of his elevation by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.

We still recall the great visitation of Cardinal Dolan who graced us with his presence and brought us so much joy when he bestowed blessings to the Daughters of St. Paul's (www.pauline.org) Pauline Books and Media Center in Manhattan on 12 March 2010. Click the link below to view the grace-filled event.

Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan (while Archbishop in March 2010) blessed Pauline Books & Media Center in Manhattan

Long live Pope Benedict XVI! Long live Cardinal Dolan!

Respectfully,

Marie-Louise Handal & Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperators - New York City

EVANGELISATION, YEAR OF FAITH, ECUMENISM: CENTRAL THEMES OF CARDINALS' DAY OF REFLECTION AND PRAYER (VIS article)

2012-02-18T20:52:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

A million thanks to God for the wonderful themes of the Cardinals' Day of Reflection & Prayer on Evangelisation, Year of Faith & Ecumenism.

Please see VIS article below containing text of a communique releasedyesterday evening by the Holy See Press Office.

QUOTE

EVANGELISATION,YEAR OF FAITH, ECUMENISM: CENTRAL THEMES OF CARDINALS' DAY OF REFLECTION ANDPRAYER

VaticanCity, 18 February 2012 (VIS) - Given below is the text of a communique releasedyesterday evening by the Holy See Press Office at the end of the day ofreflection and prayer which brought together the members of the College ofCardinals in preparation for today's consistory.

"Thisafternoon, following the celebration of Vespers, the cardinals presentcontinued to make their contributions. Counting both the morning and afternoonsessions, a total of twenty-seven talks were given, touching upon a wide rangeof subjects associated with new evangelisation and the Year of Faith.

"Attentionwas given to the problems of evangelisation in various parts of the world andin different cultures: The increasing numbers of Christians in China despitedifficulties; inter-religious dialogue and the struggle against poverty inIndia; the trials faced by Christians in the countries of the Middle East; theimportance of popular religiosity for evangelisation in Latin America; thechallenge of secularism which tends to marginalise religion from social life inthe West; challenges and difficulties as well as encouraging prospects andevents that are signs of hope, such as new and vivacious ecclesiasticalexperiences like World Youth Days and International Eucharistic Congresses.

"Discussionalso focused on the educational emergency, the renewal of catechesis, thetransmission of faith to young people, the formation of evangelisers (laypeople, religious and priests), and the importance of a mature faith capable ofwitness and discernment before the realities of today's world.

"Suggestionswere made for the forthcoming Year of Faith. These included in-depth analysesto accompany the various periods of the liturgical year, encouragingpilgrimages to the Holy Land and to Rome, and favouring new forms of popularmission.

"Emphasiswas given to the ecumenical commitment of Christians in announcing their sharedfaith in Christ, the validity of Vatican Council II as a compass to guide theChurch's journey today, the importance of bearing witness to Christian joy andsanctity, and the enduring fascination of the saints.

"Beforepraying the Angelus at around 7 p.m., the Holy Father concluded the sessionwith some words of his own. He thanked the relators", cardinal-designateArchbishop Timothy Dolan and Archbishop Fisichella, "and all theparticipants. Their words had represented a 'broad mosaic of ideas andproposals', he said. The Pope also highlighted the importance Vatican CouncilII has for "rediscovering of the contemporary importance of Jesus and thefaith". He underlined the need for an authentic renewal of catechesis inorder to highlight its precious content of truth, and to react against what hasbeen defined as 'religious illiteracy'. He reaffirmed the need for profoundconviction of the truth of God's revelation in His Son Jesus Christ, because'if there is no truth, we have no compass and do not know where to go', and'only if there is truth can life be rich and beautiful". Without this conviction,'we cannot re-evangelise humankind today'.

"Since God is love,truth is expressed in charity, and charity in turn "reveals thetruth". The Pope concluded by saying that the motto of the Year of Faithcould be summarised in the words: 'Living truth in charity'".

UNQUOTE

Jesus Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us. Mary Queen of Apostles, pray for us. Sts. Peter and Paul, pray for us.

May God grant us many blessings to enable us all to keep engaged and to participate in the brilliant 'broad mosaic of ideas and proposals' as His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI moves forward with the Year of Faith.

Blessed Giacomo 'James' Alberione, pray for us.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - NYC

TITULAR AND DIACONATE CHURCHES OF THE NEW CARDINALS (VIS article)

2012-02-18T20:37:00.000-05:00

TITULARAND DIACONATE CHURCHES OF THE NEW CARDINALS

VaticanCity, 18 February 2012 (VIS) - Following are the names of the twenty-two newcardinals created by Pope Benedict XVI in this morning's consistory, and thetitular or diaconate churches he assigned to them:

Electors

-Cardinal Fernando Filoni, diaconate of Nostra Signora di Coromoto in SanGiovanni di Dio.

-Cardinal Manuel Monteiro de Castro, diaconate of San Domenico di Guzman.

-Cardinal Santos Abril y Castello, diaconate of San Ponziano.

-Cardinal Antonio Maria Veglio, diaconate of San Cesareo in Palatio.

-Cardinal Giuseppe Bertello, diaconate of Santi Vito, Modesto e Crescenzia.

-Cardinal Francesco Coccopalmerio, diaconate of San Giuseppe dei Falegnami.

-Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz, diaconate of Sant’Elena fuori Porta Prenestina.

-Cardinal Edwin Frederick O'Brien, diaconate of San Sebastiano al Palatino.

-Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, diaconate of Annunciazione della Beata VergineMaria a Via Ardeatina.

-Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi, diaconate of Sacro Cuore di Gesu a Castro Pretorio.

-Cardinal George Alencherry, title of San Bernardo alle Terme.

-Cardinal Thomas Christopher Collins, title of San Patrizio.

-Cardinal Dominik Jaroslav Duka, O.P., title of Santi Marcellino e Pietro.

-Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk, title of San Callisto.

-Cardinal Giuseppe Betori, title of San Marcello.

- Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan, title of Nostra Signora di Guadalupe a MonteMario.

-Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, title of San Giovanni Maria Vianney.

-Cardinal John Tong Hon, title of Regina Apostolorum.

Nonelectors:

-Cardinal Lucian Muresan, title of Sant’Atanasio.

-Cardinal Julien Ries, diaconate of Sant’Antonio di Padova a CirconvallazioneAppia.

-Cardinal Prosper Grech, O.S.A., diaconate of Santa Maria Goretti.

- Cardinal Karl JosefBecker, S.J., diaconate of San Giuliano Martire.

NEW CARDINALS MUST LOVE GOD, THE CHURCH AND THEIR FELLOW MAN (VIS article)

2012-02-18T09:14:00.000-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

The Church rejoices today on the occasion of the creation of 22 new cardinals by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. (See VIS article below).

May God be glorified today and forever. Amen.

Congratulations to all the new Cardinals! Long live Pope Benedict XVI!

Let us extend our co-operation to them through our prayers, our works, and our love for God .

Best regards.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

NEWCARDINALS MUST LOVE GOD, THE CHURCH AND THEIR FELLOW MAN

VaticanCity, 18 February 2012 (VIS) - In St. Peter's Basilica at 10.30 a.m. thismorning, Benedict XVI celebrated the fourth ordinary public consistory of hispontificate, during which he created twenty-two new cardinals.

Followingthe opening prayer and the proclamation of the Gospel, the Holy Fatherpronounced his homily, extracts of which are given below:

"'Tues Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam'. ... With thesewords the entrance hymn has led us into the solemn and evocative ritual of theordinary public consistory. ... They are the efficacious words with which Jesusconstituted Peter as the solid foundation of the Church. On such a foundationthe faith represents the qualitative factor: Simon becomes Peter - the Rock -in as much as he professed his faith in Jesus as Messiah and Son of God".

"Thewords Jesus addressed to Peter highlight well the ecclesial character oftoday’s event. The new cardinals, in receiving the title of a church in thiscity or of a suburban diocese, are fully inserted in the Church of Rome led bythe Successor of Peter, in order to cooperate closely with him in governing theuniversal Church. ... In carrying out their particular service in support ofthe Petrine ministry, the new cardinals will be called to consider and evaluatethe events, the problems and the pastoral criteria which concern the mission ofthe entire Church. In this delicate task, the life and the death of the Princeof the Apostles, Who for love of Christ gave Himself even unto the ultimatesacrifice will be an example".

"Itis with this meaning that the placing of the red biretta is also to beunderstood. The new cardinals are entrusted with the service of love: love forGod, love for His Church, an absolute and unconditional love for his brothersand sisters, even unto shedding their blood, if necessary, as expressed in thewords of placing the biretta and as indicated by the colour of their robes.Furthermore, they are asked to serve the Church with love and vigour, with thetransparency and wisdom of teachers, with the energy and strength of shepherds,with the fidelity and courage of martyrs. They are to be eminent servants ofthe Church that finds in Peter the visible foundation of unity.

"Inthe Gospel we have just heard proclaimed there is offered a model to imitateand to follow. ... Serving God and others, self-giving: this is the logic whichauthentic faith imparts and develops in our daily lives and which is not thetype of power and glory which belongs to this world".

Today'sGospel reading in which James and John asked Christ to be allowed to sit withHim in His glory, one on His right and one on His left, "gives Jesus a wayto address each of the disciples and 'to call them to Himself', almost to pullthem in, to form them into one indivisible body with Him, and to indicate whichis the path to real glory, that of God: 'You know that those who are supposedto rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exerciseauthority over them. But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would begreat among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you mustbe slave of all'.

"Dominionand service, egoism and altruism, possession and gift, self-interest andgratuitousness: these profoundly contrasting approaches confront each other inevery age and place. There is no doubt about the path chosen by Jesus: He doesnot merely indicate it with words to the disciples of then and of today, but Helives it in His own flesh. He explains, in fact, 'For the Son of man also camenot to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many'.These words shed light upon today’s public Consistory with a particularintensity. They resound in the depths of the soul and represent an invitationand a reminder, a commission and an encouragement especially for you, dear andvenerable brothers who are about to be enrolled in the College of Cardinals.

"Accordingto biblical tradition, the Son of man is the One Who receives power anddominion from God. Jesus interprets His mission on earth by combining thefigure of the Son of man with that of the suffering servant, described inIsaiah. ... His service is realised in total faithfulness and completeresponsibility towards mankind. In this way the free acceptance of His violentdeath becomes the price of freedom for many, it becomes the beginning and thefoundation of the redemption of each person and of the entire human race.

"DearBrothers who are to be enrolled in the College of Cardinals, may Christ’s totalgift of self on the Cross be for you the foundation, stimulus and strength of afaith operative in charity. May your mission in the Church and the world alwaysbe 'in Christ' alone, responding to His logic and not that of the world, andmay it be illumined by faith and animated by charity which comes to us from theglorious Cross of the Lord. On the ring which I will soon place on your finger,are represented Sts. Peter and Paul, and in the middle a star which evokes theMother of God. Wearing this ring, you are reminded each day to remember thewitness which these two Apostles gave to Christ even unto martyrdom here inRome, their blood making the Church fruitful. The example of the Virgin Motherwill always be for you an invitation to follow her who was strong in faith anda humble servant of the Lord".

"Dearbrothers and sisters, pray that [the new cardinals'] lives will always reflectthe Lord Jesus, our sole Shepherd and Teacher, Source of every hope, Who pointsout the path to everyone. And pray also for me, that I may continually offer tothe People of God the witness of sound doctrine and guide holy Church with afirm and humble hand".

Followinghis homily the Pope pronounced the the formula of creation of the newcardinals, their names and the diaconate or presbyteral order to which theyhave been assigned. The new cardinals then recited the Creed and swore theirfaithfulness and obedience to the Pope and his successors. They then receivedtheir biretta and ring from the hands of the Pope who also assigned them theirtitle or diaconate.

Following the ceremonyCardinal Angelo Amato S.D.B., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes ofSaints, introduced the ordinary public consistory for the canonisation of thefollowing blesseds: Jacques Berthieu, French martyr and priest of the Societyof Jesus (Jesuits); Pedro Calungsod, Filipino lay catechist and martyr;Giovanni Battista Piamarta, Italian priest and founder of the Congregation ofthe Holy Family of Nazareth and of the Congregation of the Humble SisterServants of the Lord; Maria del Carmen (nee Maria Salles y Barangueras),Spanish foundress of the Conceptionist Missionary Sisters of Teaching; MariaAnna Cope (nee Barbara), German religious of the Sisters of the Third Order ofSt. Francis in Syracuse U.S.A.; Kateri Tekakwitha, American laywoman, and AnnaSchaffer, German laywoman. The Holy Father has decreed that the canonisationceremony will take place on Sunday 21 October. The consistory concluded withthe apostolic blessing.

CARDINALS PREPARE FOR TOMORROW'S CONSISTORY (VIS article)

2012-02-17T10:26:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

Let us pray for Pope Benedict XVI and the upcoming Cardinals, especially our beloved cardinal-designate Archbishop Timothy Dolan. We thank God for their loving devotion to the ministry entrusted by Our Lord Jesus Christ. May God bless them with the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in their leadership roles in the Church and may all their works bear abundant fruits, both temporal and spiritual, through Jesus Master, Way, Truth & Life. Amen.

See VIS article below.

CARDINALSPREPARE FOR TOMORROW'S CONSISTORY

VaticanCity, 17 February 2012 (VIS) - This morning, in preparation for tomorrow'sconsistory, the members of the College of Cardinals and the new cardinals-electmet in the Vatican's New Synod Hall for a day of reflection and prayer,presided by the Holy Father. Benedict XVI had called the day at the beginningof this month.

Accordingto a communique made public today by the Holy See Press Office, the Day beganwith the celebration of Lauds, followed by an introductory address by CardinalAngelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals. The main theme of the day -"the announcement of the Gospel today, between 'missio ad gentes' and newevangelisation" - was introduced with a long talk by one of thecardinals-designate: Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York. He was followed byArchbishop Salvatore Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council forPromoting New Evangelisation, who delivered a report on the forthcoming Year ofFaith, and its significance in the light of the Apostolic Letter 'Porta fidei'.He also outlined a series of initiatives for the Year, currently being studiedby various dicasteries.

The participants in the dayof reflection and prayer then rose to speak and the morning session concludedwith the praying of the Angelus guided by the Holy Father. The meeting willcontinue this afternoon, following the celebration of Vespers at 5 p.m.

Mary Queen of Apostles, pray for us. St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us. Blessed James Alberione, pray for us. Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

POPE WARNS AGAINST THE POWER OF FINANCE AND OF THE MEDIA (VIS news article)

2012-02-16T19:04:00.000-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

This week is so special that many are drawn to talk about the Church of Rome. May the discussions center around our faith in Jesus, Divine Master, way, truth and life.

In the above-referenced VIS article which is quoted below, we are made aware of how today we could experience the oppressive power of finance vis-à-vis existence, and we are enjoined to find ways of supporting the latter-life. Furthermore, the media would be of better service if we used it carefully to point to the Truth and not just keep up appearances. Let us accept the invitation of St. Paul the Apostle, as communicated by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, "for the faithful not to conform to this world but to transform themselves and renew their minds in order to discern the will of God, 'the good and acceptable and perfect.'" May we not fall as slaves to possessions and appearances, through the intercession of St. Paul the Apostle. Amen.

QUOTE

POPEWARNS AGAINST THE POWER OF FINANCE AND OF THE MEDIA

VaticanCity, 16 February 2012 (VIS) - Yesterday afternoon the Holy Father visited theMajor Seminary of Rome for the occasion of the feast of its patroness, Our Ladyof Trust, which falls on Saturday. The Holy Father visited the chapel beforegoing on to meet with auxiliary bishops of Rome, superiors of diocesanseminaries and 190 seminarians.

Followingthe reading of the Gospel, Benedict XVI pronounced a "lectio divina"on the passage from the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans in which the Apostleinvites the faithful not to conform to this world but to transform themselvesand renew their minds in order to discern the will of God, "the good andacceptable and perfect".

"Wecan reflect upon the Church today", he said in his off-the-cuff remarks."There is much talk about the Church of Rome, many things are said. Let ushope that people also talk about our faith. Let us pray to God that it may beso.."

ThePope then went on to refer to the force of evil which, in today's world, alsoemerges "in two great powers which are good and useful in themselves buteasily open to abuse: the power of finance and the power of the media. Both arenecessary, both are useful, but so subject to misuse that they often go againsttheir true goals".

Today"we see how the world of finance can dominate mankind. Possession andappearance dominate and enslave the world. ... Finance is no longer a tool topromote well being and to support the life of man, but a force that oppresseshim, one which almost has to be worshipped". The Pontiff called on hisaudience not to conform to this power. "Be non conformists. What counts isnot possession but existence", he said. Christians must not bow to thispower, but use it as "as a means, with the freedom of the children ofGod".

Turningthen to consider the question of public opinion, Benedict XVI highlighted how"we have a great need of information, knowledge about the truth of theworld; but there is a power of appearance which in the end counts even morethan reality itself". Appearance "overlies the truth and becomes moreimportant. Man no longer pursues the truth but wants above all to appear".Here too "there is a Christian non conformism. ... We want not appearancebut truth, and this will give us true freedom".

"Christian nonconformism redeems us and restores us to truth. Let us pray to the Lord that Hemay help us to be free in this non conformism, which is not against the worldbut is authentic love for the world".

UNQUOTE

Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator-NYC

WE MUST LEARN TO HAVE GREATER TRUST IN DIVINE PROVIDENCE (VIS article)

2012-02-03T08:59:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Peace be with you!

Let us learn from His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI about Jesus Christ, His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane and Our Lord's prayer, "Our Father." His Holiness tells us about the relationship of Jesus Christ with "Abba", God the Father; about God's omnipotence, about entrusting our human will to the Divine will, and how humanity needs to say the Lord's prayer everyday. He said, "This is a prayerwe must repeat every day, because it is not always easy to entrust oneself tothe will of God."

May we strengthen our resolve to pray every day the Lord's prayer and may God's will be done for all of humanity. Amen.

The above-reference VIS article follows:

Quote

WE MUSTLEARN TO HAVE GREATER TRUST IN DIVINE PROVIDENCE

VATICAN CITY,1 FEB 2012 (VIS) - This morning in the Paul VI Hall the Holy Father receivedthousands of pilgrims from around the world in his weekly general audience. Aspart of a series of catecheses dedicated to the prayers pronounced by Christ,he focused his remarks on Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Markthe Evangelist narrates how, following the Last Supper, Jesus went to the Mountof Olives and readied Himself for personal prayer. "But this time",the Pope said, "something new occurred; it seemed that He did not want toremain alone. Many times in the past Jesus had moved away from the crowds, evenfrom His own disciples. ... However, in Gethsemane he invited Peter, James andJohn to stay close by; the same disciples who had accompanied Him during theTransfiguration.

"The proximity of these three during the prayer at Gethsemane issignificant", Benedict XVI added. It represents "a request forsolidarity at the moment in which He felt the approach of death. Above all itwas a closeness in prayer, an expression of unity with Him at the moment inwhich He was preparing to accomplish the Father's will to the end, aninvitation to all disciples to follow Him on the path of the Cross".

Jesus'words to the three disciples - "I am deeply grieved, even to death; remainhere and keep awake" - show that He was feeling "fear and anguish atthat 'Hour', experiencing the ultimate profound solitude as God's plan wasbeing accomplished. Jesus fear and anguish comprehend all the horror that manfeels at the prospect of his own death, its inexorable certainty and theperception of the burden of evil which affects our lives".

Havinginvited His disciples to keep awake, Jesus moved away from them. Referring tothe Gospel of St. Mark, the Pope noted that Jesus "threw Himself to the ground:a position for prayer which expresses obedience to the Father's will, anabandonment of self with complete trust in Him". Jesus then asks theFather that, if possible, the hour might pass from Him. "This is not justthe fear and anguish of man in the face of death", the Holy Fatherexplained, "but the distress of the Son of God Who sees the terribleaccumulation of evil He must take upon Himself, in order to overcome it anddeprive it of power".

Inthis context, Benedict XVI invited the faithful to pray to God, placing beforeHim "our fatigue, the suffering of certain situations and of certain days,our daily struggle to follow Him and to be Christians, and the burden of evilwe see within and around us, that He may give us hope, make us aware of Hiscloseness and give us a little light on life's journey".

Returning then to Jesus' prayer, the Pope focused on "three revealingpassages" in Christ's words: "Abba, Father, for you all things arepossible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want but what youwant". Firstly, Benedict XVI said, the Aramaic word "Abba" isused by children to address their fathers, "therefore it express Jesusrelationship with God the Father, a relationship of tenderness, affection andtrust". Secondly, Jesus' words contain an acknowledgment of the Father'somnipotence "introducing a request in which, once again, we see the dramaof Jesus' human will in the face of death and evil. ... Yet the thirdexpression ... is the decisive one, in which the human will adheres fully tothe divine will. ... Jesus tells us that only by conforming their will to thedivine will can human beings achieve their true stature and become 'divine'.... This is what Jesus does in Gethsemane. By transferring human will to thedivine will the true man is born and we are redeemed".

Whenwe pray the Our Father "we ask the Lord that 'your will be done, on earthas it is in heaven'. In other words, we recognise that God has a will for usand with us, that God has a will for our lives and, each day, this mustincreasingly become the reference point for our desires and our existence. Wealso recognise that ... 'earth' becomes 'heaven' - the place where love,goodness, truth and divine beauty are present - only if the will of God isdone".

In ourprayers "we must learn to have greater trust in Divine Providence, to askGod for the strength to abandon our own selves in order to renew our 'yes', torepeat to Him 'your will be done', to conform our will to His. This is a prayerwe must repeat every day, because it is not always easy to entrust oneself tothe will of God".

TheGospel says that the disciples were unable to remain awake for Christ, and PopeBenedict concluded his catechesis by saying: "Let us ask the Lord for thepower to keep awake for Him in prayer, to follow the will of God every day evenif He speaks of the Cross, to live in ever increasing intimacy with the Lordand bring a little of God's 'heaven' to this 'earth'".

Following the catechesis the Holy Father delivered greetings in a number oflanguages to the pilgrims filling the Paul VI Hall. They included a group ofBritish military chaplains, faithful from Hong Kong and South America, bishopsfriends of the Sant'Egidio Community from Europe, Asia and Africa, as well asyoung people and the sick.

AG/ VIS 20120201 (940)

Unquote

May God bless you as we us entrust ourselves to Divine Providence through Jesus, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. Amen.

In Christ's peace,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator - NYC

ALL CHRISTIANS HAVE THE DUTY TO ANNOUNCE THE GOSPEL (VIS article)

2012-01-29T21:52:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Peace be with you!

Many thanks to God for the gift of our charism handed down to us by Blessed James Alberione to spread the Gospel through social communications. Our work has been cut out clearly for us early on by Jesus Christ before His Ascension into heaven. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI gives us new impetus today as Christians to respond to the call to radiate the word of truth.

Given the many inspirations from the writings of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI about Lectio Divina and how this practice will bring to the Church a new spiritual springtime, the Pauline Books & Media Center in Manhattan hosts Lectio Divina. For details, contact

Pauline Book & Media Center

64 W 38th Street (between 5th & 6th Ave)

New York, NY

212-754-1110

Also in Manhattan, the Church of the Holy Family (315 E. 47 St., NYC) aka United Nations Parish, and American Bible Society invite all to Lectio Divina workshop on the Feast Day of Our Lady of Lourdes, Saturday, February 11, 2012. Fr. Dempsey Acosta, a scholar of Sacred Scriptures, will be conducting the training. ($20). RSVP by Feb. 7, 2012, Tel.No. (212) 753-3401. Hope to see you there!

It is never too early to prepare for World Mission Day. I take this opportunity to draw attention to the following extracts from the full VIS article quoted below:

Extracts:
~~~

"The central point of our announcement alwaysremains the same: ... the 'kerygma' of God's absolute and total love for eachman and woman, which culminated in His sending the eternal and only-begottenSon, the Lord Jesus, Who did not disdain to take on the poverty of our humannature, loving it and saving it from sin and death by the offer of Himself uponthe cross"

~~~

"... All the components of the great mosaic ofthe Church must be aware that they are touched by the Lord's command to preachthe Gospel, so that Christ may be announced everywhere. We pastors, religiousand all Christ's faithful must follow the footsteps of the Apostle Paul who ...worked, suffered and struggled to bring the Gospel among the pagans, notsparing energy, time or means to make Christ's message known".

~~~

QUOTE

ALLCHRISTIANS HAVE THE DUTY TO ANNOUNCE THE GOSPEL

VATICAN CITY,25 JAN 2012 (VIS) - Made public today was the Pope's Message for World MissionDay, which falls this year on Sunday 21 October. The theme of the document is:"Called to radiate the word of truth". Extracts of the message aregiven below.

"This year the celebration of World Mission Day is particularlysignificant. The fiftieth anniversary of the conciliar Decree 'Ad gentes', theopening of the Year of Faith and the Synod of Bishops on the theme of the newevangelisation all come together to reaffirm the Church's will to dedicateherself with greater courage and ardour to the 'missio ad gentes', that theGospel may reach the ends of the earth.

"Vatican Council II, with the participation of Catholic bishops from everycorner of the world, was a luminous sign of the Church's universality. ...Missionary bishops and autochthonous bishops, pastors of communities livingamong non-Christian peoples, ... all made an important contribution toreaffirming the pressing need of 'ad gentes' evangelisation and, consequently, toplacing the missionary nature of the Church at the centre ofecclesiology".

"Today this view ... remerges with renewed urgency because the number ofthose who do not yet know Christ has increased. ... We need, then, to retrievethe apostolic zeal of the early Christian communities which, small anddefenceless, were nonetheless capable, through announcement and witness, ofspreading the Gospel throughout the then-known world.

"It is no surprise, then, that Vatican Council II and the subsequent Magisteriumof the Church place particular emphases on the missionary mandate which Christentrusted to His disciples, and which is the duty of all the people of God(bishops, priests, deacons, religious and lay people). Announcing the Gospel inevery corner of the world is the primary responsibility of bishops, who aredirectly responsible for evangelising the world".

"The command to preach the Gospel ... must involve all actions and sectorsof a particular Church, its entire being and activity. Vatican Council II madethis very clear and subsequent Magisterium has underlined it strongly. Thismeans the constant adaptation of lifestyles, pastoral plans and diocesanorganisation to this fundamental dimension of the Church's being, especially inour continually changing world. ... All the components of the great mosaic ofthe Church must be aware that they are touched by the Lord's command to preachthe Gospel, so that Christ may be announced everywhere. We pastors, religiousand all Christ's faithful must follow the footsteps of the Apostle Paul who ...worked, suffered and struggled to bring the Gospel among the pagans, notsparing energy, time or means to make Christ's message known".

"Missionary cooperation must expand to include new forms, not only economicassistance but also direct participation in evangelisation. The celebration ofthe Year of Faith and of the Synod of Bishops on the new evangelisation will beuseful occasions to relaunch missionary cooperation, especially in the latterdimension".

"The immense horizons of the Church's mission and the complexity oftoday's situation call for new ways of effectively communicating the word ofGod. First and foremost this requires a renewed adherence of individual andcommunity faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ 'especially at a time of profoundchange such as humanity is currently experiencing'.

"One of the obstacles to evangelisation is, in fact, the crisis of faith,not only in the Western world but among a large part of humankind, which nonethelesshungers and thirsts for God, and which must be invited and led to the bread oflife and the living water. ... We must renew our enthusiasm to communicate thefaith, so as to promote new evangelisation in communities and countries ofancient Christian tradition, which are losing their reference to God, and helpthem rediscover the joy of believing. Concern for evangelisation must neverremain at the margins of Christians' ecclesial activity or individual lives, itmust characterise them strongly in their awareness of being both beneficiariesand missionaries of the Gospel The central point of our announcement alwaysremains the same: ... the 'kerygma' of God's absolute and total love for eachman and woman, which culminated in His sending the eternal and only-begottenSon, the Lord Jesus, Who did not disdain to take on the poverty of our humannature, loving it and saving it from sin and death by the offer of Himself uponthe cross".

"Faith is a gift that was given to us to be shared. ... It is the mostimportant gift of our lives and we cannot keep it to ourselves".

"Many priests and religious from all over the world, many lay people andeven entire families leave their countries, their local communities, and travelto other Churches to bear witness to and announce the Name of Christ. ... Thisis an expression of profound communion, sharing and charity amongChurches".

"Together with this exalted sign of faith transformed into charity, Iwould like to mention and thank the Pontifical Missionary Works, which is aninstrument for cooperation in the Church's universal mission in the world.Thanks to their activities the announcement of the Gospel is transformed intoassistance to others, justice for the poorest, education in isolated villages,medical care in remote areas, liberation from want, rehabilitation of themarginalised, support for the development of peoples, the breaking down ofethnic divisions and respect for life in all its stages".

"Upon the work of evangelisation 'ad gentes', and especially upon thosewho carry it out, I invoke the effusion of the Holy Spirit, that the grace ofGod may make it ever more decisive in the history of the world".

MESS/ VIS 20120125(950)

UNQUOTE

May God bless you and humanity always. Amen.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator-NYC

CHRISTIAN UNITY REQUIRES INDIVIDUAL CONVERSION (VIS article)

2012-01-25T14:08:00.004-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

May God bless you on the Feast Day of St. Paul's Conversion!!!

According to the VIS article (full text shown below), His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI delivered greetings in various languages tothe pilgrims and faithful gathered in the Paul VI Hall, reminding them thattoday's Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul marks the end of the Week of Prayerfor Christian Unity. Addressing Polish faithful he said: "The conversionof the Apostle of the Gentiles near Damascus is proof that, in the finalanalysis, it is God Himself Who decides the destiny of His Church. Let us askHim for the grace of unity, which also requires our individual conversion,while remaining faithful to the truth and love of God".

As Christians, let us follow St. Paul to find unity in Jesus Christ, Our Lord, for the accomplishment of the Father's plan and for the daily conversion of hearts to realize the transformation we seek.

In the footsteps of St. Paul the Apostle, may we say "... and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20)

VIS article follows:

CHRISTIANUNITY REQUIRES INDIVIDUAL CONVERSION

VATICAN CITY,25 JAN 2012 (VIS) - Benedict XVI dedicated his catechesis during this morning'sgeneral audience to Christ's priestly prayer during the Last Supper, asnarrated in chapter 17 of the Gospel of St. John. In order to understand thisprayer "in all its immense richness", said the Pope, it is importantto see it in the context of the Jewish feast of atonement, Yom Kippur, in whichthe high priest seeks atonement first for himself, then for the order ofpriests and finally for the community as a whole. Likewise, "that nightJesus addressed the Father at the moment in which He offered Himself. He,priest and victim, prayed for Himself, for the Apostles and for all those whowould believe in Him".

Theprayer which Jesus prays for Himself is the request for His own glorification."It is in fact more than a request", the Holy Father said, "itis a declaration of willingness to enter freely and generously into theFather's plan, which is accomplished through death and resurrection. ... Jesusbegins His priestly prayer by saying: 'Father, the hour has come; glorify yourSon so that your Son may glorify you'. The glorification Jesus seeks forHimself, as High Priest, is to be fully obedient to the Father, an obediencewhich leads Him to fulfil His filial status: 'So now, Father, glorify me inyour own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the worldexisted'".

Thesecond part of Jesus' prayer is His intercession for the disciples who havefollowed Him, and His request that they may be sanctified. Jesus says: 'They donot belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. Sanctify them inthe truth'. Benedict XVI explained how "To sanctify means to transfersomething - a person or an object - to God. This involves two complementaryaspects: on the one hand, the idea of 'segregation' ... from man's personallife in order to be completely given over to God; on the other hand there isthe idea of 'being sent out', of mission. Having been given to God, theconsecrated thing or person exists for others. ... A person is sanctified when,like Jesus, he is segregated from the world, set aside for God in view of atask and, for this reason, available for everyone. For disciples this meanscontinuing Jesus' mission".

In thethird phase of the priestly prayer, "Jesus asks the Father to intervene infavour of all those who will be brought to the faith by the mission inauguratedby the Apostles. ... 'I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf ofthose who will believe in me through their word'. ... Jesus prays for theChurch in all times, He also prays for us. ... The main element in Jesus'priestly prayer for His disciples is His request for the future unity of thosewho will believe in Him. This unity is not a worldly achievement. It derivesexclusively from divine unity and comes down to us from the Father, through theSon and in the Holy Spirit".

Bythis priestly prayer Jesus establishes the Church, "which is nothing otherthan the community of disciples who, through their faith in Christ as the Onesent by the Father, receive His unity and are involved in Jesus' mission tosave the world by leading it to a knowledge of God".

Benedict XVI invited the faithful to read and meditate upon Jesus priestlyprayer, and to pray to God themselves, asking Him "to help us enter fullyinto the plan He has for each of us. Let us ask Him to consecrate us toHimself, that we may belong to Him and show increasing love for others, bothnear and far. Let us ask Him to help us open our prayers to the world, notlimiting them to requests for help in our own problems, but remembering ourfellow man before the Lord and learning the beauty of interceding for others.Let us ask Him for the gift of visible unity among all those who believe inChrist, ... that we may be ready to respond to anyone who asks us about the reasonsfor our hope".

At theend of his audience, Benedict XVI delivered greetings in various languages tothe pilgrims and faithful gathered in the Paul VI Hall, reminding them thattoday's Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul marks the end of the Week of Prayerfor Christian Unity. Addressing Polish faithful he said: "The conversionof the Apostle of the Gentiles near Damascus is proof that, in the finalanalysis, it is God Himself Who decides the destiny of His Church. Let us askHim for the grace of unity, which also requires our individual conversion,while remaining faithful to the truth and love of God".

AG/ VIS 20120125 (826)

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - NYC

CHRISTIAN UNITY, A GIFT OF GOD AND A DAILY TASK (VIS article)

2012-01-24T22:01:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

On this eve of the Feast Day of Conversion of St. Paul, may God bless you and all your loved ones abundantly, particularly with the transformation promised by the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us join the Pope in praying to God for Christian Unity, as well as for those celebrating the lunar New Year in the Far East. His Holiness included them in prayer: "Inthe present global economic and social crisis, my hope for those peoples isthat the new year may be marked by justice and peace, and bring relief to thesuffering. My particular wish is that the young, with their enthusiasm andideals, may offer a new hope to the world". Please see above-referenced full VIS article below.

QUOTE

CHRISTIANUNITY, A GIFT OF GOD AND A DAILY TASK

VATICAN CITY,22 JAN 2012 (VIS) - The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which runs from 18to 25 January, was the theme for the Pope's reflections before praying theAngelus this morning, as he invited the faithful "to join the prayer whichJesus addressed to the Father on the eve of His Passion: 'That they may all beone, so that the world may believe'".

Thetheme of the texts for this year's Week of Prayer has been taken from St.Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians: "We will all be changed by thevictory of our Lord Jesus Christ". The Pope explained how "we are allcalled to see Christ's victory over sin and death - that is, His Resurrection -as an event which radically transforms those who believe in Him and opens theirway to incorruptible and immortal life. Recognising and welcoming thetransforming power of faith in Jesus Christ supports Christians in their searchfor full unity among themselves".

Benedict XVI affirmed that "our search for unity will be realistic ifchange first comes about within us, if we let God act, if we allow ourselves tobe transformed in the image of Christ, if we enter into new life in Christ Whois the true victory. The visible unity of all Christians always comes from onhigh, from God; it requires humility to recognise our weakness and to acceptthe gift. However, to use a phrase often repeated by Blessed Pope John Paul II,each gift is also a task. And so the unity that comes from God requires a dailycommitment on our part to open ourselves to one another in charity. ... Thetime we dedicate to prayer for the full communion of Christ's disciples willgive us a deeper understanding of how we will be transformed by His victory, bythe power of His Resurrection".

Inconcluding the Pope recalled how the Week of Prayer will conclude thisWednesday with the celebration of Vespers in the Roman basilica of St. Paul'sOutside-the-Walls for the Feast of the Conversion of the Apostle Paul. Theevent will be attended by representatives from other Churches and Christiancommunities, he said, "and together we will renew our prayer to the Lord,source of unity".

Afterthe Angelus prayer, Benedict XVI expressed his best wishes for a happy New Yearto countries in the Far East which are celebrating the new lunar year. "Inthe present global economic and social crisis, my hope for those peoples isthat the new year may be marked by justice and peace, and bring relief to thesuffering. My particular wish is that the young, with their enthusiasm andideals, may offer a new hope to the world".

ANG/ VIS 20120123 (470)

UNQUOTE

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Immaculeé Ilibagiza at Pauline Books & Media Center-Manhattan

2012-01-14T15:39:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

Last Thursday evening January 12, 2012 , many brave souls trickled into a cozy crowd in Manhattan's Pauline Books and Media Center located at 64 West 38th St, between 5th Avenue & Avenue of the Americas, NYC. On that cold winter night, we all wanted to be with Immaculeé Ilibagiza, a lady who survived the 1994 genocide in her native country Rwanda. Immaculeé is acclaimed by the New York Times as best-selling author of two books: "Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust" and "Our Lady of Kibeho: Mary Speaks to the World from the Heart of Africa". She also authored the book entitled "Led by Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide." These books were published by Hay House.

All gathered to listen to Immaculeé's humbling heart-to-heart talk about Segatashya of Kibeho, the subject of her latest book entitled "The Boy who met Jesus." She informed that the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Kibeho were approved by the Vatican in November 2001. However, Immaculeé clarified that the apparitions of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary which Segatasha reportedly witnessed, after having been subjected to a Commission of Enquiry and having been respectfully submitted, are definitively still awaiting consideration/decision from the Church. The story of Segatashya is interesting for all it's worth. Segatashya's profile was described as "a shepherd born into a penniless and illiterate pagan family in most remote region of Rwanda." However, Segatashya courageously took on the messages he received and as one who is "sent" went out to proclaim the Good News and faced many challenges. He underlined to those in doubt that they should believe the messages that correspond to those in the Bible, which are Sacred Scriptures inspired by the Holy Spirit. May God bless Segatashya in leading many to Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mother Mary. Amen.

Immaculeé described her healthy prayer life which was ingrained by her father and was rooted in her family. She also informed us that Our Lady of Kibeho recommended praying the rosary of seven sorrows of Mary. All are invited to check out her website www.Immaculee.comand to sign up to receive newsletter, which Immaculeé sends weekly.

Marie-Louise, Sister Charlotte, FSP, Sister Jerome, FSP and Margie had a photo opportunity with Immaculeé Ilibagiza after signing our copies of her book on Segatashya of Kibeho..

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - NYC

HOLY FATHER'S ANNUAL ADDRESS TO THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS (VIS article)

2012-01-09T21:52:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

As we begin 2012, let us increase our understanding of the role, perspective and contributions of the Holy See in the family of nations, according to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. Please read the Vatican Information Service article below.

Let us support His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI with prayers and sacrifices. May God bless the work of the Holy See and make it to blossom and bear fruit today and all the days to follow, particularly in "...the twofold desire clearly enunciated by Vatican II, whose fiftieth anniversary takes place this year: to proclaim the lofty grandeur of our humancalling and the presence within us of a divine seed, and to offer humanitysincere cooperation in building a sense of universal fraternity correspondingto this calling." (Quoted from VIS article below.)

May God bless you with good health, happiness and prosperity in 2012.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator-NYC
(New York City, 9 January 2012)

QUOTE

HOLYFATHER'S ANNUAL ADDRESS TO THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS

VATICAN CITY,9 JAN 2012 (VIS) - This morning in the Sala Regia of the Vatican ApostolicPalace, Pope Benedict pronounced his traditional annual address to members ofthe diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See. Before making his remarks, thePope was greeted by Alejandro Emilio Valladares Lanza of Honduras, dean of thediplomatic corps, then received the greetings of the ambassadors as a wholeformulated in a speech delivered by Jean-Claude Michel of the Principality ofMonaco, vice dean.

TheHoly See currently maintains full diplomatic relations with 179 States, towhich must be added the European Union and the Sovereign Military Order ofMalta. It also has relations of a special nature with the Palestine LiberationOrganisation.

Furthermore, the Holy See has observer-State status at the United Nations, aswell as being a member of seven organisations and agencies of the UN system,observer in eight others, and member or observer in five regional organisations.

Ampleextracts of the Holy Father's address are give below:

"Through you my good wishes extend to all the nations which you representand with which the Holy See maintains diplomatic relations. It is a joy for usthat Malaysia joined this community in the past year. ... A sign of thecooperation existing between the Catholic Church and States is seen in theAccords reached in 2011 with Azerbaijan, Montenegro and Mozambique. ... TheHoly See also desires to establish a fruitful dialogue with international andregional organisations, and in this context I note with satisfaction that themember States of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) haveaccepted the appointment of an apostolic nuncio accredited to thatorganisation. Nor can I fail to mention that last December the Holy Seestrengthened its longstanding cooperation with the International Organisationfor Migration by becoming a full member".

"Finally, I wish to greet South Sudan, which last July became a sovereignState. I am happy that this was achieved peacefully. Sadly, tensions andclashes have ensued in recent months, and I express my hope that all may unitetheir efforts to enable the people of Sudan and South Sudan to experience atlast a period of peace, freedom and development".

"Today's meeting traditionally takes place at the end of the Christmasseason, during which the Church celebrates the coming of the Saviour. He comesin the dark of night and so His presence is immediately a source of light andjoy. ... Truly the world is dark wherever men and women no longer acknowledgetheir bond with the Creator and thereby endanger their relation to othercreatures and to creation itself. The present moment is sadly marked by aprofound disquiet and the various crises - economic, political and social - area dramatic expression of this.

"Here I cannot fail to address before all else the grave and disturbingdevelopments of the global economic and financial crisis. The crisis has notonly affected families and businesses in the more economically advancedcountries where it originated, creating a situation in which many people,especially the young, have felt disoriented and frustrated in their aspirationsfor a serene future, but it has also had a profound impact on the life ofdeveloping countries. We must not lose heart, but instead resolutely rediscoverour way through new forms of commitment. The crisis can and must be anincentive to reflect on human existence and on the importance of its ethicaldimension, even before we consider the mechanisms governing economic life: notonly in an effort to stem private losses or to shore up national economies, butto give ourselves new rules which ensure that all can lead a dignified life anddevelop their abilities for the benefit of the community as a whole.

"The effects of the present moment of uncertainty are felt particularly bythe young. Their disquiet has given rise in recent months to agitation whichhas affected various regions, at times severely. I think first and foremost ofNorth Africa and the Middle East, where young people, among others, who aresuffering from poverty and unemployment and are fearful of an uncertain future,have launched what has developed into a vast movement calling for reforms and amore active share in political and social life. ... Initial optimism hasyielded to an acknowledgment of the difficulties of this moment of transitionand change. ... Respect for the person must be at the centre of institutionsand laws; it must lead to the end of all violence and forestall the risk thatdue concern for popular demands and the need for social solidarity turn intomere means for maintaining or seizing power. I invite the internationalcommunity to dialogue with the actors in the current processes, in a wayrespectful of peoples and in the realisation that the building of stable andreconciled societies, opposed to every form of unjust discrimination,particularly religious discrimination, represents a much vaster horizon thanthat of short-term electoral gains.

"I am deeply concerned for the people of those countries where hostilitiesand acts of violence continue, particularly Syria, where I pray for a rapid endto the bloodshed and the beginning of a fruitful dialogue between the politicalforces, encouraged by the presence of independent observers. In the Holy Land,where tensions between Palestinians and Israelis affect the stability of theentire Middle East, it is necessary that the leaders of these two peoples adoptcourageous and farsighted decisions in favour of peace. I was pleased to learnthat, following an initiative of the Kingdom of Jordan, dialogue has beenresumed; I express my hope that it will be maintained, and that it will lead toa lasting peace which guarantees the right of the two peoples to dwell insecurity in sovereign States and within secure and internationally recognisedborders. ... I am also following closely the developments in Iraq, and Ideplore the attacks that have recently caused so much loss of life; I encouragethe nation's leaders to advance firmly on the path to full nationalreconciliation".

"Education is a crucial theme for every generation, for it determines thehealthy development of each person and the future of all society. ... Inaddition to a clear goal, that of leading young people to a full knowledge ofreality and thus of truth, education needs settings. Among these, pride ofplace goes to the family, based on the marriage of a man and a woman. This isnot a simple social convention, but rather the fundamental cell of everysociety. Consequently, policies which undermine the family threaten humandignity and the future of humanity itself. ... There is a need for policieswhich promote the family and aid social cohesion and dialogue. It is in the familythat we become open to the world and to life. ... In this context of opennessto life, I note with satisfaction the recent sentence of the Court of Justiceof the European Union forbidding patenting processes relative to humanembryonic stem cells, as well as the resolution of the Parliamentary Assemblyof the Council of Europe condemning prenatal selection on the basis of sex.More generally, and with particular reference to the West, I am convinced thatlegislative measures which not only permit but at times even promote abortionfor reasons of convenience or for questionable medical motives compromise theeducation of young people and, as a result, the future of humanity.

"A similarly essential role in the development of the person is played byeducational institutions. ... There is a need to implement educational policieswhich ensure that schooling is available to everyone and which, in addition topromoting the cognitive development of the individual, show concern for abalanced personal growth, including openness to the Transcendent. The CatholicChurch has always been particularly active in the field of education andschooling, making a valued contribution alongside that of State institutions.It is my hope that this contribution will be acknowledged and prized also bythe legislation of the various nations.

"In this perspective. it is clear that an effective educational programmealso calls for respect for religious freedom. This freedom has individual,collective and institutional dimensions. We are speaking of the first of humanrights, for it expresses the most fundamental reality of the person. All toooften, for various reasons, this right remains limited or is flouted. I cannotraise this subject without first paying tribute to the memory of the PakistaniMinister Shahbaz Bhatti, whose untiring battle for the rights of minoritiesended in his tragic death.

"Sadly, we are not speaking of an isolated case. In many countriesChristians are deprived of fundamental rights and sidelined from public life;in other countries they endure violent attacks against their churches and theirhomes. ... In other parts of the world, we see policies aimed at marginalisingthe role of religion in the life of society, as if it were a cause ofintolerance rather than a valued contribution to education in respect for humandignity, justice and peace. In the past year religiously motivated terrorismhas also reaped numerous victims, especially in Asia and in Africa. ...Religion cannot be employed as a pretext for setting aside the rules of justiceand of law for the sake of the intended 'good'".

"I would also like to bring up several encouraging signs in the area ofreligious freedom. I am referring to the legislative amendment whereby thepublic juridical personality of religious minorities was recognised in Georgia;I think too of the sentence of the European Court of Human Rights upholding thepresence of the crucifix in Italian schoolrooms. ... I hope that Italy willcontinue to foster a stable relationship between Church and State, and thusserve as an example to which other nations can look with respect and interest.

"On the continent of Africa ... it is essential that cooperation between Christiancommunities and governments favour progress along the path of justice, peaceand reconciliation, where respect is shown for members of all ethnic groups andall religions. It is painful to realise that in different countries of thecontinent this goal remains distant. I think in particular of the renewedoutbreak of violence in Nigeria, ... the aftermath of the civil war in Coted'Ivoire, the continuing instability in the Great Lakes region and thehumanitarian emergency in the countries of the Horn of Africa. I once againappeal to the international community to make every effort to find a solutionto the crisis which has gone on for years in Somalia.

"Finally I would stress that education, correctly understood, cannot failto foster respect for creation. We cannot disregard the grave naturalcalamities which in 2011 affected various regions of South-East Asia, orecological disasters like that of the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan.Environmental protection and the connection between fighting poverty andfighting climate change are important areas for the promotion of integral humandevelopment. For this reason, I hope that, pursuant to the seventeenth sessionof the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on Climate Changerecently concluded in Durban, the international community will prepare for theUN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio + 20) as an authentic 'family ofnations' and thus with a great sense of solidarity and responsibility towardspresent and future generations".

"Inspired by the certainty of faith, the Holy See continues to offer itsproper contribution to the international community in accordance with thetwofold desire clearly enunciated by Vatican Council II, whose fiftiethanniversary takes place this year: to proclaim the lofty grandeur of our humancalling and the presence within us of a divine seed, and to offer humanitysincere cooperation in building a sense of universal fraternity correspondingto this calling".

CD/ VIS 20120109 (1990)

UNQUOTE

POPE TO FAMILIES: STRENGTHEN THE FAITH IN YOUR HOMES (VIS article)

2012-01-02T18:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

As a family, let us ponder in our hearts on the wonderful and inspiring message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, which is quoted from the Vatican Information Service, as follows:

QUOTE

POPE TO FAMILIES: STRENGTHEN THE FAITH IN YOUR HOMES

VATICAN CITY, 31 DEC 2011 (VIS) - The Holy Father has sent a message to Cardinal Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, archbishop of Madrid, Spain, for the Feast of the Holy Family. The message, dated 27 December, was read out yesterday at the beginning of a Mass for families celebrated by Cardinal Rouco Varela in Madrid's Plaza de Colon.

"I invite everyone to consider this celebration as a continuation of Christmas", the Pope writes. "Jesus became man in order to bring the world the goodness and love of God, and He did so in that place where human beings are most disposed to want the best for others, ready to do anything for them and to place love above all other interests. ... The family is, so to speak, the door by which the Saviour of humankind entered the world. At the same time it gives domestic love and communion the greatness of being a special reflection of the Trinitarian mystery of God.

"This greatness is also a splendid and decisive vocation for families", the Holy Father adds. "I encourage you ... to be aware that God is at your side and to invoke Him always so as to ensure He gives you the help you need to overcome your difficulties; this help is certain and has its foundation in the grace of the Sacrament of Marriage. Allow yourselves to be guided by the Church, which Christ entrusted with the mission of spreading the good news of salvation down the centuries, and do not surrender to the many worldly powers threatening the great treasure of the family, which you must protect day after day".

"It is in the family that we learn to live together, that faith is transmitted, values are strengthened and freedom is channelled to ensure that one day children will be fully aware of their own vocation and dignity, and that of others. The warmth of the home and domestic example can teach much more than words can say. This educational dimension of the family may receive particular encouragement in the Year of Faith, due to begin in a few months time. For this reason, I invite you to revitalise the faith in your homes and to become increasingly aware of the Creed we profess".

"I pray to God ... that (young people) may not cease to thank Him for the gift of the family, that they may be grateful to their parents and undertake to defend and promote the authentic dignity of this institution, so vital for society and the Church".

MESS/ VIS 20120102 (440)

UNQUOTE

May God bless you and your loved ones always!

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - NYC
(sent from Essex, England on 2 January 2012)

New Year's Eve Special for Pauline Family & Friends

2011-12-31T16:03:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

A million thanks to God for the gift of your special collaboration in prayer, apostolate, studies and support in lifting up our spirits from poverty towards HOPE in the salvation won by JESUS CHRIST, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life.

New Year's Eve is special to us all because of the birth of the concept of Pauline Family during the grace-filled New Year's Eve of December 31, 1899 until the wee hours of January 1, 1900, when in obedience to Pope Leo XIII, Blessed James Alberione went to the Cathedral of Alba in Italy to pray. He received the light which was crystallized in the founding of the Pauline Family. This is vividly expressed in the trailer of Primo Maestro's movie. Click here: Blessed Alberione's film trailer

In 2012, let us strive to re-double our prayers, understanding and efforts in living the Gospel and bringing the Eternal Word of God to our hearts, to our families and to all of humankind for the glory of God and for peace to reign in all the hearts of men, women and children. May we realize the glorious Divinity of the Holy Trinity and the splendor of the Holy Family and keep them as our model in the way St. Paul (see Col 3:12-25) and the Supreme Pontiffs have pointed out the family virtues which we could imitate in both our natural family, and in the religious and spiritual family united by grace--spiritual bond..

May God bless you and all your loved ones in the Year of Our Lord 2012.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator-NYC
(sent from Essex, England on 31 Dec. 2011)

Read the Sacred Scriptures

2011-12-29T19:37:00.000-05:00

"Lovers of your teaching have much peace, for them there is no stumbling block." (Psalm 119:165)

Jesus Christ is Born!

2011-12-24T14:17:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

May God bless you all abundantly as the whole world rejoices in the birth of Jesus Christ the Lord. He is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Glory to God in the highest and peace to men of goodwill!

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels

Joyful Longing for Christ this Advent

2011-11-29T15:20:00.001-05:00

Advent: a season of contemplation and pondering. Never to be missed when God allows the movement of time to caution us to dance to its softer pace -- that we may anticipate well his coming!

What are you reading this Advent? This is an important question. For as we delve into the time in our Church when we need to slow down, we need to be replenished -- deeply -- with words that will bring us the joy of looking forward to meeting Christ. He shall come, no doubt!

When he's finally come we want to be found ready and worthy of his loving presence. For the meantime, he looks forward to being with us. He longs to be with us.

Have we made any efforts to prepare, to slow our movements, to relish in the moments of longing for the Beloved? For as he longs to be with us we, too, should be impassioned with a great longing to be with him.

For good books to read this Advent, visit the Daughters of St. Paul.

A most joyful Advent to all!

(Picture is taken from Catholic Mom in Hawai'i. Thank you, Esther G!)

Thanks for the New Roman Missal!

2011-11-27T23:05:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

Thanks be to God for launching us all into the New Roman Missal. We all turned a new page today First Sunday of Advent 2011 -- beautiful liturgy at Church of the Holy Family - United Nations Parish.

May God bless you and all your loved ones always.

In case you need related resources, you might want to see Pauline Books and Media Center.

Best regards.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels

Happy Blessed James Alberione Feast Day - 26 Nov. 2011

2011-11-26T18:53:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

May God grant you all abundant blessings on the occasion of Feast Day of Blessed James Alberione. Amen.

Primo Maestro taught us that our Pauline Family was born from the Blessed Sacrament. This refers to the grace-filled evening of 31 December 1900 & morning of 1 January 1901 when for 4 hours Blessed James Alberione worshiped the Blessed Sacrament in the Cathedral of Alba, in obedience to Pope Leo XIII who requested prayers for the new century. Blessed Alberione was enlightened with a mission that led to the establishment of the Pauline Family.

Indeed, we continue to draw graces from the Blessed Sacrament or Holy Eucharist. When we completed the celebration of Mass on Sunday, 6 Nov. 2011 at St. Thecla's Retreat House in Boston, the tabernacle was left empty after the Daughters of St. Paul and the Pauline Cooperators received Holy Communion from Father Riley.

We had opportunity to worship the Blessed Sacrament. We were treated to wonderful conferences prepared by Sr. Anne Flanagan on how to live with a penitent heart and learn about the historical background of and upcoming beautiful changes embodied in the New Roman Missal. We had a rewarding time singing a hymn to St. Paul. Next step: We move forward incorporated into the Body of Jesus Christ Our Lord to humbly attempt to accomplish in our small ways the apostolate handed down by Blessed Alberione to place the media of social communication at the service of the Gospel and of human progress.

Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.

Blessed James Alberione gave to the Church of today his life and the many lives of Pauline Family members -- men, women, priests, brothers, sisters and laity. Glory to God and peace to man.

Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator

POPE TO ITALIAN CARITAS: BE A SIGN OF CHRIST'S CHARITY: VIS article

2011-11-24T22:04:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

The beautiful weather in New York City today is just one of the million reasons for us to celebrate Thanksgiving Day! Many thanks to God for the grateful pilgrims in the 1620's who started to recognize the bountiful harvest from Divine Providence.

With grateful heart, I also wish to share today's article (shown below) from the Vatican Information Service re the message of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI to Italian Caritas. Our Supreme Pontiff is quite inspiring. His messages are dotted with actionable "gems".

May God send us the Holy Spirit to show us a way to act & play our individual & collective role/s so we can respond with courageous hearts & carry the light of the Church to those areas where we encounter darkness and may God empower us to "be a sign of Christ's charity" in our small ways. Amen.

VIS article:

QUOTE

POPE TOITALIAN CARITAS: BE A SIGN OF CHRIST'S CHARITY

VATICAN CITY,24 NOV 2011 (VIS) - This morning in the Vatican, Benedict XVI receivedparticipants in a meeting organised by Italian Caritas to celebrate itsfortieth anniversary. In his address, the Pope recalled how Caritas "hasan important role to play in educating communities, families and civil society,where the Church is called to shed her light. This involves taking responsibilityfor educating people to the good life of the Gospel, and that life is good onlyif it includes the witness of charity".

"Never abandon this educational role, even when the journey becomesdifficult and your efforts seem to bear no fruit. Undertake your duties whileremaining faithful to the Church and respecting the identity of yourinstitutions, using the instruments that history has given you and those which'the inventiveness of charity' - as Blessed John Paul II said - will suggest toyou in the future".

"A work of charity speaks of God, it announces a hope and induces us toask questions". Such works "are born of the faith. They are works ofthe Church, expressions of her concern for those who suffer most. They areeducational acts because they help the poor to grow in dignity, Christiancommunities to follow Christ and civil society to shoulder its obligations. Letus recall the teaching of Vatican Council II: 'demands of justice [must] besatisfied lest the giving of what is due in justice be represented as theoffering of a charitable gift'. The Church's humble and concrete service doesnot seek to substitute, even less to assuage, collective and civil conscience,but accompanies them with a spirit of sincere collaboration, and with dueconcern for autonomy and subsidiarity".

"Charity requires an open mind", the Holy Father went on."Responding to need means not only giving bread to the hungry, but alsoasking ourselves about the reasons for their hunger, using the gaze of JesusWho could see the profound truth of the people around Him. In this perspective,our modern times are calling you to ask yourselves about the way you work forcharity. Our thoughts cannot but go to the vast world of migration. Naturalcalamities and wars often create emergencies. The global economic crisis is aanother sign of the times which calls for the courage of fraternity. The gapbetween the north and south of the world, and the wounded human dignity of somany people, call for a charity able to expand in concentric circles from thesmall economic systems to the great. Increasing poverty, the weakening offamilies, and the uncertainty faced by the young all point to the risk ofdiminishing hope.

"Humankind needs not only benefactors", the Pope added, "butalso humble practical people who, like Jesus, stand alongside their brothersand sisters and share their fatigue. In a word, humanity is looking for signsof hope. The source of our hope is in the Lord. This is why we need Caritas,not to delegate it with the responsibility for charitable service, but for itto be a sign of Christ's charity, a sign that brings hope".

AC/ VIS 20111124 (530)

UNQUOTE

Did you find the actionable "gems" in Pope Benedict XVI's message to Italian Caritas? Key: In the VIS article above, find out what Jesus would do today.

There are many "actors" in the world who play important roles to bring the Gospel and there are a myriad of ways to bring hope to people in many nations. The Pauline Family, founded by Blessed James Alberione, also strives to bring the good life of the Gospel. See: Discover Hope with Daughters of St. Paul.

May God bestow abundant graces to the followers of Jesus Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life and may God be glorified by the humble works of Blessed James Alberione and the apostolate work of the 10 Pauline institutes he founded in Italy which have grown like a tree with branches in many nations around the world. Amen.

Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.
Blessed James Alberione, pray for us. (Feast Day: Nov. 26)
Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us. (Feast Day: Jan. 22)
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, pray for us. (Feast Day: Oct. 22)
Sr. Scholastica Rivata, Servant of God, pray for us. (13 March 1993)
Venerable Canon Francesco Chiesa, pray for us. (Proclaimed venerable: 11 Dec. 1987)
Venerable Maggiorino Vigolungo, pray for us. (Proclaimed venerable: 28 March 1988)
Venerable Fratel Andrea Maria Borello, pray for us. (Proclaimed venerable: 3 March 1990)

Wishing you all the best!

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator

HUMAN LIFE AND DIGNITY MUST ALWAYS BE DEFENDED: VIS Article

2011-11-22T21:03:00.001-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Happy Thanksgiving!

A million thanks to God for the gift of life. The Vatican Information Service article below brings to our attention ongoing Conference & work on the legacy of Blessed John Paul II's teaching on the Gospel of Life & mentions the "Church doctrine on matters regarding the primary and fundamental value of thelife of each human being throughout its trajectory; that is, from conceptionuntil natural end." Let us pray. May God grant noble men and women abundant grace of understanding, sustaining and respecting God's loving gift of human life and increase the circle of defenders of human life and dignity, through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.

QUOTE

HUMAN LIFEAND DIGNITY MUST ALWAYS BE DEFENDED

VATICAN CITY,22 NOV 2011 (VIS) - This morning in the Holy See Press Office the presentationtook place of the twenty-sixth international conference organised by thePontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care. The conference will have as itstheme: "Health Pastoral Care, Serving Life in the Light of the Magisteriumof Blessed John Paul II", and is due to be held in the Vatican from 24 to26 November.

Duringthis morning's presentation, Archbishop Zygmunt Zimowski, president of thePontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care, noted that the conference aims toensure that "Blessed John Paul II's teaching on the Gospel of Life, andthe translation of that teaching into pastoral activity by the Church, callpastoral care operatives, healthcare workers and all men and women of good willto love and serve life, especially when it is weak and suffering". He alsoexpressed the hope that the conference would "celebrate the sacredness oflife and the dignity of the person, which must be defended in allcircumstances".

Thetheme chosen for this twenty-sixth international conference is inspired by"the profound veneration" which healthcare workers feel for John PaulII, Archbishop Zimowski explained, He also highlighted the late Pontiff'slifelong concern for the sick, expressed in both words and actions. Indeed, itwas John Paul II who established the Pontifical Council for Health PastoralCare, as well as the World Day of the Sick and the Good Samaritan Foundation.

Theconference will include "lectures, testimonies and theological-pastoralexperiences inspired by John Paul II's teachings on the Christian value ofsuffering and the Gospel of Life. These will be examined from aninterdisciplinary perspective", the archbishop said. On the first day aceremony will be held in honour of John Paul II, with contributions fromCardinal Fiorenzo Angelini and Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, respectivelypresident emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care andformer secretary to John Paul II.

Theconference will be attended by many groups of faithful active in the field ofhealthcare, and by representatives from other Churches and religious confessionsincluding Rev. Stavros Kofinas of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and Rev. AlfredKrauth of the Lutheran Church. Six ambassadors to the Holy See and forty-twoprelates will also be present. In all there will be 685 participants fromseventy countries.

Theinternational conference, which will be preceded by a meeting of bishops withresponsibility for health pastoral care, will also include a concert entitled"The Cross, Mercy and Glory" organised in honour of Benedict XVI andfocusing on the figure of Blessed John Paul II, to be held in the Vatican'sPaul VI Hall on 25 November.

Forhis part Fr. Augusto Chendi M.I., under secretary of the Pontifical Council forHealth Pastoral Care, explained how the council contributes to health trainingthrough its Charter for Healthcare Workers, "which contains a summary ofChurch doctrine on matters regarding the primary and fundamental value of thelife of each human being throughout its trajectory; that is, from conceptionuntil natural end". The Charter, which dates from 1995, is currently beingupdated to include John Paul II's subsequent Magisterium and that of BenedictXVI, as well as the ethical questions that have arisen with the progress ofmedicine and biology. The new Charter is almost ready and will soon beavailable in various languages.

Alsoparticipating in today's press conference were Bishop Valentin Pozaic S.J.,auxiliary of Zagreb, Croatia; Msgr. Jean-Marie Mate Musivi Mupendawatu,secretary of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care; Msgr. JacquesSuaudeau, consultor of the council, and Sr. Myriam Castelli F.S.P., ajournalist with RAI International.

CON-AVA/ VIS 20111122 (610)

UNQUOTE

Many thanks to Blessed John Paul II for his courage, faith, hope and love which he shared with us in a myriad of ways. By attaching his seal of approval, he showed us that holiness is attainable through the many causes of canonization in which he elevated candidates to the ranks of Servants of God, Venerables, Blesseds, Martyrs and Saints who lived exemplary lives in many nations. A million thanks to God for the many graces of granting such wisdom to recognize the saints who lived in different generations and who despite human limitations have received through their prayers the grace of multiplying their efforts to give glory to God and to lead us to Jesus Christ, Our Lord, Master, Way, Truth and Life. Amen.

Dear God, Many thanks for the shepherds in our Christian Churches around the world, most especially His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church. Please continue to bestow your abundant graces to them & to all their sheep. Our Lady of Peace, pray for us.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - NYC

Novena in Honor of Blessed James Alberione - November 17 to 25

2011-11-19T16:26:00.002-05:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Let's join together in honoring our Founder Blessed James Alberione with our prayer offerings as we move onwards to his anniversary.

O Mary, Queen of Apostles and Queen of Peace, please pray to Jesus Christ, Our Lord, for the cause of canonization of Blessed James Alberione. Amen. Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Blessed James Alberione, Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo, Mother Paula Cordero, FSP

Novena in Honor of Blessed James Alberione

Nov. 17
Introduction
Today we begin the novena in honor of Blessed James Alberione, whom John Paul II called “the first apostle of the new evangelization.” In gratitude we thank the Lord for raising him up—for our sake and that of our world. We thank him for having answered the Master’s call, as the first Apostles did. In this Morning Prayer, we ask him to help us open ourselves to the Spirit, who continually evangelizes us and draws us to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, the Apostle of the Father.

Readings
 Christian Prayer, p. 623,
 Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 179
 The following text: In John Paul II’s words, Blessed James Alberione is “the first apostle of the new evangelization.” Not only because he used modern media to proclaim the Gospel, but because, like Paul at the dawn of Christianity, he heralded in his person and his message the central call of the Gospel: total configuration with Christ the Master, a personal, life-changing, lifelong encounter with Christ. His reference was always the Gospel and he insisted that everyone of us read it in order to live it—a novelty at the turn of the last century. His lodestar was the primacy of Christ. His journey was a personal relationship with Christ and a burning desire that the whole world would join him on that journey.
This is the meaning of the new evangelization, outlined in the lineamenta for next year’s Synod of Bishops. With this novena, we are in a way initiating our own community’s preparation for that event. We entrust to Primo Maestro our own desire to witness to the saving love and truth of Jesus Christ with what the lineamenta calls new “ardour, methods, and expression.”
Yes, in the words of our founder that we just read, “The love for the Gospel is the sign and characteristic of persons whom God designates for great enterprises.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 18—Dedication of the Churches of Sts. Peter and Paul
Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 1346
LPF, p. 180
Lineamenta: The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith, n. 6:
“The new evangelization is a frame of mind, a courageous manner of acting and Christianity’s capacity to know how to read and interpret the new situations in human history which, in recent decades, have become the places to proclaim and witness to the Gospel….These sectors concern society, cultures, economics, civic life, and religion….
“…Our third great sector…[is] the means of social communications, which, while today providing great possibilities for the Church, also represents one of her greatest challenges….In this sector, the new evangelization means that Christians need to show boldness in these ‘new aeropaghi,’ where they live everyday, and find the means and approaches to ensure that the Church’s patrimony in education and knowledge, safeguarded by the Christian tradition, has a part to play in these ultra-modern places.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 19
Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 655
Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 180
Lineamenta, n. 6:
“The first sector calling for the new evangelization is culture. In our times we find ourselves in an era of a profound secularism….in which God is completely or partially left out of life and human consciousness…. [This] can be seen in the daily lives of many Christians, who are oftentimes influenced, if not completely conditioned, by the culture of images with its models and opposing forces. Temptations to superficiality and self-centredness, arising from a predominating hedonistic and consumer-oriented mentality, are not easily overcome. The “death of God” announced decades ago by so many intellectuals has given way to an unproductive cult of the individual….
“At the same time, some regions of the world are showing signs of a promising religious reawakening.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 20—Solemnity of Christ the King
Christian Prayer, p. 523

Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 524
Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 180
Lineamenta, n. 15, 22:
“The agent for transmitting the faith is the entire Church which manifests itself in the local Churches, where proclamation, transmission and the lived experience of the Gospel are realized…. The Spirit gathers believers into communities that fervently live their faith, a faith which is nourished through listening to the teaching of the apostles, through the Eucharist and through the communities’ life of unselfish service to proclaiming the Kingdom of God…. In these communities, the faithful are gathered together by the preaching of the Gospel of Christ, and the celebration of the mystery of the Lord's Supper, so that ‘by the food and blood of the Lord's body the whole brotherhood may be joined together’.”
“The new evangelization, then, which is primarily a task to be done and a spiritual challenge, is the responsibility of all Christians who are in serious pursuit of holiness.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Intercessions
Add the following:
“In thanksgiving for the life of Sr. Mary Aparecida on this, her anniversary. May she rest in the kingdom of light and peace.”

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 21—Presentation of Mary (optional memorial)
Christian Prayer, p. 686

Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 690
Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 180
Lineamenta, n. 13, 23:
“The synod fathers gave particular attention to proclaiming the Word of God to future generations. ‘Often we encounter in them a spontaneous openness to hearing the Word of God and a sincere desire to know Jesus....Concern for young people calls for courage and clarity in the message we proclaim…witnesses and teachers who can walk with them,.…[and] approaches to Christian initiation which, through listening to the Word, celebrating the Eucharist and the communal living of love and fellowship, will lead to a growth in faith.’”
“The first evangelization began on the day of Pentecost, when the Apostles, gathered together in prayer with the Mother of Christ, received the Holy Spirit. In this way, Mary, who according to the words of the Archangel is "full of grace", was present during apostolic evangelization and continues to be present in those places where the successors of the Apostles strive to proclaim the Gospel.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 22—St. Cecilia (Memorial)
Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 706
Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 181
Lineamenta, n. 7:
“Reread the present moment in light of the Christian gift of hope. Relearning the meaning of hope leads Christians to discover what they can offer in their world of encounters, experiences and dialoguing with others, what they can share in the process and how they can better express this hope which leads to perseverance. The new sectors which call us into dialogue require turning a critical eye towards our manner of life, our thinking, our values and our means of communication. At the same time, the occasion must also serve as a self-evaluation of Christianity today, which must repeatedly learn to understand itself, beginning from its roots.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 23
Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 723
Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 181
Lineamenta, n. 11:
“St. Paul the Apostle presents himself as an ‘apostle set apart for the Gospel of God’ (Rom 1:1; 1 Cor 1:17)…. In referring to the Gospel, we must not think of it only as a book or a set of teachings. The Gospel is much more; it is a living and efficacious Word, which accomplishes what it says. It is not so much a system of articles of faith and moral precepts, much less a political programme, but a person: Jesus Christ, the definitive Word of God, who became man. The Gospel is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. However, not only does the Gospel have Jesus Christ as its content; but even more, through the Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ is also the promoter and the centre of its proclamation and transmission. Consequently, the goal of the transmission of the faith is the realization of a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, in the Spirit, thereby leading to an experiencing of his Father and our Father.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Nov. 25
Use as an introduction to prayer: Liturgy of the Pauline Family, p. 182

Readings
Christian Prayer, p. 758
Lineamenta, nn. 6, 13:
Through migration “our societies are experiencing an unprecedented encounter and mixing of cultures….In such a situation, the new evangelization can provide the opportunity no longer to perceive the Church's mission as a north-south or west-east dynamic but one which transcends the geographic confines of past missionary activity. Today, all five continents are fields of missionary activity. We must also seek to understand the sectors and places in life where faith is absent, not simply as a result of drifting from the faith but from never having encountered it. Transcending the geographic confines of former missionary activity means having the capacity to raise the question of God at every moment in the encounters created by the mixing and rebuilding of the fabric of society….”
“Migrants must not simply be evangelized but be trained themselves to be evangelizing agents.”

Canticle of Zechariah
Antiphon: LPF, p. 184

Concluding Prayer: LPF, p. 183

Join us> Discover Hope with Daughters of St. Paul! Please see www.pauline.org

Many thanks. May God bless you and your loved ones always.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator

Thoughts on the parable of the Wedding Feast

2011-10-11T23:02:00.003-04:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

Shall we share our reflections on last Sunday's Gospel according to Matthew 22:1-14, regarding the parable of the Wedding Feast? The "wedding garment" stands out for me. The wedding feast is likened to the final salvation. All are invited, but few are chosen. God invites us all to salvation. We need to observe the commandments as Jesus Christ taught us in Matthew 22:37 & 39. Jesus Christ said to an inquiring scholar that the greatest commandment is: "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." The second greatest commandment is: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

The "wedding garment" could be likened to how well a person lived by the two greatest commandments revealed by Jesus. Let us trust in Jesus Christ, Lord of Divine Mercy, through act of faith, obedience and gratitude in the revelation of Jesus Christ in order to merit our entrance to the Wedding Feast of final salvation.

From what I gather in the book "Many Things in Parables: Reflections for Life," written by Fr. Joseph Fichtner, OSC, the "royal garment" (or wedding garment) is designed with truth and life, holiness and grace, justice, love and peace.

Let us find ways to help each other to wear the wedding garment to the awaited wedding feast or final salvation.

Could you share your thoughts on the Gospel, please?

Many thanks in advance.

May God bless you always.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels

V.I.S. article regarding MESSAGE OF OUR DEAR "POPE TO BISHOPS: SEEK NEW PATHS OF EVANGELISATION"

2011-10-03T21:29:00.006-04:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

It gives me great joy that our Primo Maestro Blessed James Alberione has launched us all to spread the Good News in new and modern ways by reading the signs of our times. It gives me even greater joy to share with you the V.I.S. news article in which His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI encouraged European bishops to bravely draw up a new roadmap for the mission of evangelisation to serve the new generation.

This is so vital in order for bishops to lead the new generation on track along the right Way, to listen to the Truth and be guided by the Good Shepherd, and so as to gain the supernatural Life and be adopted children of God.

I enjoin you to give thanks to Our Almighty God for the re-emergence of Christianity in countries which suffered greatly under the dictatorship of atheist regimes. May the gift of faith in Jesus Christ flourish among the hearts of men, women and children especially in countries which are embracing and experiencing the glorious rebirth of the Church in Europe and around the world. Amen.

Please read the full VIS article below:

Source: Vatican Information Service

QUOTE

POPE TO BISHOPS: SEEK NEW PATHS OF EVANGELISATION

VATICAN CITY, 1 OCT 2011 (VIS) - The Pope has exhorted European bishops "courageously to identify new missionary paths of evangelisation, especially in serving the new generations". These words are contained in a message signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone S.D.B. and addressed to Cardinal Peter Erdo, president of the Council of European Episcopal Conferences (CCEE). The council, which is currently celebrating the fortieth anniversary of its foundation, is holding its plenary assembly in Tirana, Albania, from 29 September to 2 October.

Benedict XVI describes the CCEE as "a vital structure connecting the European episcopates, which for forty years has promoted fruitful collaboration in pastoral and ecumenical activities".

The council has chosen to dedicate its assembly this year to the subject of the new evangelisation, also in view of the Synod on that subject called by the Pope for October 2012. In the opening session of the plenary, Cardinal Erdo recalled how the mission of the CCEE "is to support the Church throughout the continent of Europe, focusing particular attention on those Churches which, during the course of last century, suffered greatly under the dictatorship of atheist regimes. ... Today we can confidently affirm that the rebirth of the Church in those countries is proof of Divine Providence and of faith in Christ, Who was crucified and rose again".

MESS/ VIS 20111003 (230)

UNQUOTE

Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.

Mary, Queen of the Apostles, pray for us.

St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.

St. Francis of Assisi, whose feast is celebrated tomorrow, pray for us.

Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.

Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us.

Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, pray for us.

Respectfully,

Margie Skeels

V.I.S. article on HIS HOLINESS, OUR DEAR POPE: "BENEDICT XVI REFLECTS ON HIS APOSTOLIC TRIP TO GERMANY"

2011-09-28T10:00:00.008-04:00

Dear Pauline Friends and Family,

Hereby pleased to share the article from Vatican Information Service on recent apostolic trip of our dear Pope Benedict XVI to Germany where he confirmed to the people of his homeland his message "Where God is, there is a future." He inspired all about faith, hope and love. Moreover; His Holiness instilled in his compatriots and the rest of us listening around the world the significance of, and the transformation we could achieve in our daily lives by, putting our trust in God.

His Holiness drew attention to the beauty & greatness of answering God's divine call. He underlined the joy of being in solidarity -- as brothers and sisters -- in Christ, in ecumenism, and -- equally so -- in being Catholic. Let us put our trust in One God -- the Holy Trinity-- Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- who is Omnipresent, Omniscient, Omnipotent, Eternal.

Pope Benedict XVI continuously works to give glory to God -- who is Love.

Pope Benedict XVI makes us proud.

May God bless HH Pope Benedict XVI now and always. Amen.

Vatican Information Service news article of today 28 Sept. 2011 follows:

QUOTE

BENEDICT XVI REFLECTS ON HIS APOSTOLIC TRIP TO GERMANY

VATICAN CITY, 28 SEP 2011 (VIS) - During today's general audience, celebrated this morning in St. Peter's Square, Benedict XVI reflected on his recent apostolic trip to Germany, defining it as "a greatfeast of the faith" during which he had seen "how it is God Who gives our lives their deepest meaning, their true fullness".

The Pope recalled the various stages of his journey, beginning with his visit to Berlin where, before the Federal Parliament, he had "expounded on the foundations of law and the rule of law; that is, the measure for all laws inscribed by the Creator into the very heart of His creation". After addressing the Bundestag, he had gone on to meet members of the German Jewish community with whom, "having recalled our shared roots of faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, we highlighted the fruits that have thus far emerged from dialogue between the Catholic Church and Judaism in Germany". In his subsequent meeting with members of the Muslim community, the Pope had reflected on "the importance of religious freedom for the peaceful development of humankind".

Benedict XVI then went on to speak of his satisfaction at seeing such large numbers of people in attendance at the Mass he had celebrated at the Olympic stadium in Berlin. On that occasion he had dedicated his homily "to the importance union with Christ has for our personal lives as believers and for our being Church, His mystical body".

The Holy Father had then gone on to visit the region of Thuringia, cradle of the Protestant Reformation. Hence, said Pope Benedict, "the particular ecumenical emphasis of that second stage of my journey". In Thuringia he had met with members of the German Evangelical Church Council in the city of Erfurt, where Martin Luther had joined the Augustinian order and been ordained a priest. In the former Augustinian convent of Erfurt "we again saw how important our combined witness of faith in Jesus Christ is in today's world. ... We need to make joint efforts on the journey towards full unity", however "only Christ can give us that unity, and we will become increasingly united to Him in the extent to which we return to Him and allow ourselves to be transformed by Him".

The Pope also mentioned the Vespers he had celebrated at the Marian shrine of Etzelsbach, located on "a strip of land that has always remained Catholic through the vicissitudes of history, and the inhabitants of which courageously opposed the dictatorships of Nazism and Communism". During Mass the following day in the Cathedral Square of Erfurt, the Pope had spoken about the patron saints of Thuringia- Elizabeth, Boniface and Kilian - highlighting "the shining example of the faithful who bore witness to the Gospel under totalitarian regimes. I invited the faithful to be saints today, worthy witnesses of Christ, and to contribute to building our society", he said.

The Pope went on: "I had a moving encounter with Msgr. Hermann Scheipers, the last living priest to have survived to concentration camp of Dachau. At Erfurt I also had the opportunity to meet some victims of sexual abuse by clergy, to whom I spoke of my regret and my participation in their suffering".

The last stage of the Pope's apostolic trip took him to the archdiocese of Freiburg im Breisgau. There he had presided at a prayer vigil with young people, where "I was happy to see that the faith in my German homeland has a young face, that it is alive and has a future", he said. "I told them that the Pope trusts in the active collaboration of the young. With the grace of Christ they can bring the fire of God's love into the world".

Another outstanding moment of his visit was his meeting with seminarians. "I wanted to show those young men the beauty and greatness of their divine call, and to offer them some help to continue their journey joyfully and in profound communion with Christ", the Pope said. Referring then to his encounter with representatives from the Orthodox Churches, the Pope laid emphasis on "the shared duty to be a leavening for the renewal of our society".

Mass celebrated at the airport of Freiburg im Breisgau gave Benedict XVI "the opportunity to thank everyone involved in various areas of ecclesial life, especially the many volunteers who collaborate in charitable initiatives. It is thanks to them that the German Church is able to offer such great assistance to the universal Church, particularly in the mission lands. I reminded them that their precious service will be fruitful as long as it derives from an authentic and living faith, in union with the bishops and the Pope, in union with the Church. Finally, before my return, I addressed a thousand Catholics active in the Church and society, to whom I proposed certain points for reflection on Church activity in a secularised society, on the call to be free from material and political burdens in order to be more transparent to God".

"This apostolic trip to Germany", Pope Benedict concluded, "provided me with an opportunity to meet the faithful of my own homeland, to confirm them in faith, hope and love, to share with them the joy of being Catholic. But my message was also addressed to the German people as a whole, inviting them to look to the future with trust. It is certain that 'where God is, there is a future'".AG/ VIS 20110928 (930)

UNQUOTE

Let us pray.

Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us.
Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.
Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us.
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, pray for us.

Jesus, Lord of Divine Mercy, we trust in your love.
Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us.
St. John the Evangelist, pray for us.
St. Francis of Assisi, pray for us.
St. Anthony, pray for us.
St. Thomas More, pray for us.
St. Faustina, pray for us.
St. Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, pray for us.
Blessed Cardinal John Henry Newman, pray for us.
Blessed Pope John Paul II, pray for us.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator - Manhattan

Uploading the picture of the Cooperator Banner

2011-09-02T14:58:00.003-04:00

Remembering 9/11: Our Lady Is There for Us

2011-08-11T00:05:00.012-04:00

As September begins, we look towards the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. As one of the New York City Pauline Cooperators, I notice that so many neighborhood associations and community organizations in Manhattan are planning gatherings and tributes. Even within a secular context, people seek a communal spiritual moment for mutual support and comfort. Still now, many remain on the journey of coping with the bereavement experienced a decade ago by so many in our city and country.

In its liturgical calendar, our Church provides such great support to us at times like this. As occurs so often with our liturgical calendar, we notice that Our Lady is there for us in the feasts and remembrances of the current weeks. Recent weeks have seen the celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary. During the week of September 11th, we commemborate the Most Holy Name of the Virgin Mary (September 12th) and Our Lady of Sorrows (September 15th). This last holy day is placed the day after the Feast of the Exhaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14th) to remind us of Mary's presence at the foot of the Cross -- just as she is present, as Mother to us all, providing consolation and guidance to us during times of suffering and loss.

Jesus said "Do not be afraid."

2011-08-04T22:13:00.004-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

On 7 Aug. 2011, we will recognize the words of Our Divine Master Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew 14:22-33 (from the Sacred Bible). In particular, Matthew 14:27 encourages us to be faithful, to recognize Our Lord, and be not afraid.

{14:22} And Jesus promptly compelled his disciples to climb into the boat, and to precede him in crossing the sea, while he dismissed the crowds.
{14:23} And having dismissed the multitude, he ascended alone onto a mountain to pray. And when evening arrived, he was alone there.
{14:24} But in the midst of the sea, the boat was being tossed about by the waves. For the wind was against them.
{14:25} Then, in the fourth watch of the night, he came to them, walking upon the sea.
{14:26} And seeing him walking upon the sea, they were disturbed, saying: “It must be an apparition.” And they cried out, because of fear.
{14:27} And immediately, Jesus spoke to them, saying: “Have faith. It is I. Do not be afraid.”
{14:28} Then Peter responded by saying, “Lord, if it is you, order me come to you over the waters.”
{14:29} And he said, “Come.” And Peter, descending from the boat, walked over the water, so as to go to Jesus.
{14:30} Yet truly, seeing that the wind was strong, he was afraid. And as he began to sink, he cried out, saying: “Lord, save me.”
{14:31} And immediately Jesus extended his hand and took hold of him. And he said to him, “O little in faith, why did you doubt?”
{14:32} And when they had ascended into the boat, the wind ceased.
{14:33} Then those who were in the boat drew near and adored him, saying: “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

So, let us be reassured of Our Divine Master's presence with faith and without fear, as we move forward with poverty in spirit in our prayer life, in our studies and our apostolate.

Thanks to Blessed James Alberione, Founder of the Pauline Family, for his leadership, guidance and legacy in leading us to Jesus Christ Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.

May God bestow His blessings on the cause of canonization of Blessed James Alberione, through Our Divine Master Jesus Christ, and through Mother Mary, Queen of Apostles. Amen.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels

St. Paul Friends & Family Fest - 7 August 2011

2011-08-02T21:13:00.006-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

I hope this message finds you well. What's happening? The latest buzz is that the First Annual St. Paul Friends & Family Fest will take place this Sunday August 7, 2011 at the Society of St. Paul/Alba House Grounds, 2187 Victory Blvd. Staten Island, NY 10314. You still have time to signup & pay online at PaulineFaithways.blogspot.com.

See you there for the Outdoor Mass at 12noon, followed by bar-b-q, music, games & more surprises. Film enthusiasts could watch a new movie preview!

For more details, check the latest Catholic New York issue for the article written by ML Handal, Pauline Cooperator, NYC & Mid-Atlantic Area. Load of thanks to all who have worked to make this Pauline homecoming happen!

St. Paul the Apostle, and Blessed James Alberione, please pray for us.

In Christ's peace,
Margie Skeels

Call to prayer for Archbishop Pietro Sambi (RIP), Apostolic Nuncio to U.S.A.

2011-07-29T11:04:00.006-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

Please pray for Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Nuncio to U.S.A., who passed away. May God grant Archbishop Sambi eternal rest & may He let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Let us keep Archbishop Sambi's wishes alive. In our small way, let us continue -- through prayers & actions -- our co-operation in bringing forth "a new wind of Pentecost ... a new springtime" to the Church in the U.S.A. and to the world. By virtue of our baptism, we could all keep his wishes alive in our souls, hearts, & minds.

Many thanks for your solidarity in spirit & prayer.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels

Beatitudes - Matthew 5:1-12 (from The Sacred Bible)

2011-07-24T17:04:00.002-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

This Sunday 24 July 2011, let us take leave of the busy world and in the quiet space in our small corner of the world, let us listen with the ears of our hearts to refresh our souls by reflecting on the Sermon of Jesus, Our Master, from Matthew's Gospel, Chapter 5, verses 1 to 12, from The Sacred Bible.

(5:1} Then, seeing the crowds, he ascended the mountain, and when he had sat down, his disciples drew near to him,
{5:2} and opening his mouth, he taught them, saying:
{5:3} “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
{5:4} Blessed are the meek, for they shall possess the earth.
{5:5} Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be consoled.
{5:6} Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be satisfied.
{5:7} Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
{5:8} Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
{5:9} Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
{5:10} Blessed are those who endure persecution for the sake of justice, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
{5:11} Blessed are you when they have slandered you, and persecuted you, and spoken all kinds of evil against you, falsely, for my sake:
{5:12} be glad and exult, for your reward in heaven is plentiful. For so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Let us thank God for the beatitudes which will accompany us tonight, tomorrow and beyond. God's blessings are ever present, powerful, and full of knowledge and love. May God inflame your hearts and mine with faith, hope, charity & love today and always. Amen.

Respectfully,
Margie Skeels
Pauline Cooperator

Call to prayer for people of Norway

2011-07-23T10:34:00.009-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

Please pray for those who were victimized by the bombing in Oslo and shooting in Utoeya on 22 July 2011. May God grant His mercy to the faithful souls of the departed and may they rest in peace. Amen. May God grant complete healing to the people who suffered injury. Amen. May God bless, console and protect all the people of Norway during this difficult time through Jesus, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. Amen.

In solidarity, let us pray for the people of Norway who are stalwarts among the family of nations in their strong long-standing role in peace-making & in the development of humanity around the world.

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called children of God. (Matthew 5:9)

In sympathy,
+Margie Skeels

Solidarity on Corpus Christi 2011

2011-07-15T09:05:00.002-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

The United Nations Parish in New York City was blessed with the Vigil Mass celebration of Corpus Christi Feast Day in 2011. In particular, His Beatitude, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, made a meaningful connection in his homily of how the words in the Gospel were proclaimed in the Holy Land some two millennia ago by Our Divine Master, Jesus Christ.

He encouraged people from all nations to come on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and to continue to pray in solidarity for our brothers and sisters in Christ who live in the Holy Land. Let us unite in prayer with His Beatitude and where possible pray for the success in support of Christianity in the Holy Land and beyond.

Let us continue to grow in faith and in the implementation of our mission of spreading the Good News.

May Christ live in us and in all of humanity, through Mary, Our Mother & the Queen of Apostles & St. Paul the Apostle. Amen.

Blessed James Alberione, please pray for the intentions of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.

In Christ's peace,

Margie Skeels

Pauline Cooperator-NYC

Remembering the Beginnings of the Church

2011-06-20T23:29:00.004-04:00

This week, we celebrate the nativity of St. John the Baptist, who was born six months before the Lord's birth. In their adulthood, St. John prepared the way for the Lord's arrival by bringing the people to conversion through the Divine Word he shared. Along with the Mary the Queen of Apostles, John the Beloved Disciple and the Apostles themselves, St. John the Baptist is one of the saintly icons symbolizing the beginnings of the Lord's great Mission of Salvation. As we return to Ordinary Time on the church calendar, we use the cycle of the year to follow the life of our Lord and of his Church, to celebrate the great events of our faith! Just as we completed the Easter Season, the "new life" of Resurrection and Ascension in our liturgical calendar, we now move from spring to summer in our secular calendar. I am forever awed by the great wisdom in the traditions of our Church, which provide such rich catechesis in the form of liturgical feasts and seasons. As Paulines, our call to study the faith is so richly supported by our liturgical lives!

Aloha to Fr. Khanh Hoang

2011-05-25T14:48:00.013-04:00

With Margaret and Carl Berger

With Deacons Modesto and Fred

With Mela and Eric Kim

diaconate formation group

The news that a good priest leaves a diocese or a parish brings many of us an unpleasant feeling. On the other hand, though it is not exactly a time of rejoicing over God's unfolding of mysteries, we can put our trust in him knowing that he has the best of plans, and even the best of interests.

Fr. Khanh Hoang has been with our diocese for many years now, I would say about ten. He served at St. Jude's Church and had been our Vicar for Clergy after that. He leaves the Diocese of Honolulu this Thursday, May 26. He flies to California and embarks on a cross country trip from there to Florida, where his new parish awaits him.

Our aloha, mahalo, and prayers are with you, Fr. Khanh! May your vacation be as rejuvenating as God meant it to be!

The Fifth Week of Easter

2011-05-23T22:52:00.002-04:00

This is the fifth week in the glorious Easter Season. As we listen to the daily readings from the Acts of the Apostles, we are reminded that both the Resurrection and Good Friday are concurrently present in our lives. This week's readings give examples of the many ups and downs experienced by Saint Paul in his efforts to share the faith. Paul and Barnabas gave their disciples assurances that: "We must undergo many trials if we are to enter into the reign of God." In Tuesday's reading from Saint John's Gospel, we are also reminded of Jesus' promise, in one of his last discourses, to his followers: "Peace is my farewell to you, my peace is my gift to you ... Do not be distressed or fearful." We also hear this text of Jesus' promise in the prayers of every mass. While it is easy to see the great sufferings of Paul as distant from us and our relatively comfortable world, it is helpful to remember that these words of encouragement apply, as well, to our own various efforts, frustrations, challenges and accomplishments as Pauline Cooperators. Thank you, Margie, for your last posting reminding us of the great value of spending prayer time with Jesus -- our Way, Truth, and Life -- in the Blessed Sacrament.

Jesus, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth & Light, have mercy on us.

2011-05-22T14:24:00.003-04:00

Today's 2nd reading from the 1st Letter of St. Peter, and today's Gospel, tell us of the love of Jesus, Our Divine Master, who is the Way to the Father in heaven. He is the Truth. He is the Light. From His passion, death, and resurrection, Our Divine Master has gone to the Father. Where is, He will prepare a place for us.

As we seek to know Our Divine Master more and more each day, we could spend our time, even now on earth, with Him in front of the Blessed Sacrament. We could hear/listen to His words when we read the Holy Bible, inspired by the Holy Spirit. We could receive Him in Holy Communion.

Let us thank the Lord for all of God's blessings and let us continue to love God above all and love our neighbors as ourselves from moment to moment.

Jesus, Our Divine Master, Way, Truth & Light, have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
St. Peter & St. Paul the Apostles, pray for us.
Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.
Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us.
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, pray for us.

Blessed Pope John Paul II

2011-05-01T17:54:00.002-04:00

Dear Pauline Friends & Family,

Let us rejoice in thanksgiving to God for the Beatification of Pope John Paul II on this Glorious May Day, Divine Mercy Sunday and the start of the Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May Blessed Pope John Paul the Great Communicator intercede for all who seek to spread the Gospel. Amen.

Respectfully,
Margie

HAPPY EASTER 2011

2011-04-24T17:09:00.002-04:00

Dear Pauline Family and Friends,

May God bless you abundantly on the occasion of this Glorious Easter 2011!

Let us celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ Our Divine Master knowing the victory He has won for us. May we live the promises of our Baptism which we renew this Easter 2011 for the Glory of God, through Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen.

Jesus Master Way, Truth & Life, have mercy on us.
Mary Queen of the Apostles, pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.
Blessed James Alberione, pray for us.
Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo, pray for us.
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, pray for us.
Pope John Paul II, Servant of God & soon to be Beatified, pray for us.

In Christ's peace,
Margie

Volunteer opportunities for Cooperators in Philadelphia area

2011-04-11T07:56:00.002-04:00

Fellow Cooperators, The sisters need help on these dates in April and May. An opportunity to serve and cooperate! Contact Sr. Mary Peter Martin at 617-413-4169 (cell) or srmpmfsp@gmail.com if you can help.

April 14 Corpus Christi Parish in Lansdale, after the noon Mass-- a “Pope Event” introducing Pope Benedict’s new book on Jesus of Nazareth

April 30th Charismatic Conference John Paul II High School April 30th 5:30 pm Mass book display at St. Agnes in Sellersville

May 1 Display at all the Masses at St. Agnes in Sellersville and John Paul II Beatification Party!

May 2nd John Paul II Beatification Party at JPII Elementary School in Stratford, NJ

May 7th and May 8th St. Thomas Aquinas, Croydon PA Book Display

Lenten Lectures in NYC @ St. Peter's Lutheran Church & Church of the Holy Family (R.C.)

2011-03-29T22:19:00.005-04:00

Dear Pauline Family, Readers & Friends,

If you're in New York City, please come to this Lenten Lecture Series. It's on its 12th year. It's refreshingly ecumenical in its approach. Its message is as vibrant as ever.

The event starts with evening prayers, immediately followed by light refreshments and lecture with opportunity for Q&A at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 619 Lexington Avenue corner E54th Street, NYC; and at the Church of the Holy Family (also known as United Nations Parish) located at 315 East 47th Street, between 1st & 2nd Avenues, NYC. (Click on above image to see details.)

Let us make good space & time to silently ponder on the message of the Gospel, including through the ancient practice of Lectio Divina.

May God bless you during this Lent 2011, particularly for your observances and offerings of prayers, fasting, sacrifices and charity.

Respectfully,

Post-cards from the abortion frontlines - Cooperators pray for God's grace for this young woman!

2011-03-18T14:59:00.002-04:00

A spiritual battle whose outcome is still in the air.

At Planned Parenthood this morning (Friday, March 18) there was a real struggle between good and evil -- life and death. A 24-year-old young woman was there with her mother. The mother did NOT want the daughter to have an abortion, but the daughter felt she had to. The mother would come out and talk to some of those vigiling, who gave her support and information for the daughter. The workers from PP tried to block the view we had of the daughter inside the facility. Vigilers were on their knees praying while the mother and daughter went back and forth with their decision. Both mother and daughter were in tears.

After quite some time the mother came out and said the daughter would be coming back another day, but was not having the abortion today. The daughter felt the mother was not supporting her in the decision to have the abortion and wanted someone else to come back with her. Whatever it took, the young woman walked out of PP.

Her name is Danielle and she is 6 weeks pregnant. She has another youngster who is about 7. The father of both children just deserted her, and she and her child are back home with her mother.

Please pray that she has the time to think and to check out the resources given to her. Also pray for the young woman's mother who was struggling to get her daughter out of PP. We may never see these folks again and I may not be able to give you an update, but the blessing was seeing the mother and daughter walk away from PP. Feel free to pass this prayer request along to anyone you think can join in the prayers.

God bless you for your prayers!

Let's pray for the people of Japan

2011-03-14T22:43:00.002-04:00

Dear Pauline Family & Friends,

Let us join HH Pope Benedict XVI in praying for the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.

Almighty and merciful Father, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, please grant eternal rest unto the souls of the faithful departed in Japan & may they rest in peace. Amen.

May Our Blessed Mother Mary, Our Lady of Akita, intercede with great compassion for the people of Japan so they may receive temporal and spiritual blessings, and be on the path to recovery from the devastation and also be protected from radiation owing to the meltdown of nuclear power plants. Amen.

In Christ's peace,
Margie

Let's pray for Sr. Cecilia Paula Livingston, FSP (RIP)

2011-03-11T22:07:00.006-05:00

Dear Pauline Family Members & Friends,

Please join us in prayer for our dear Sr. Cecilia Paula Livingston, FSP, who went peacefully to God today.

Eternal rest grant to Sr. Cecilia Paula Livingston, FSP, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

As we begin Lent, we are reminded of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, Our Divine Master. We also remember the teachings of Primo Maestro Blessed James Alberione about prayer for a happy death during monthly retreat. It starts like this: "Lord, my Creator and Redeemer, I wholeheartedly accept the sentence of my death, according to Your will and in a spirit of adoration." At the end of 2 pages, we pray: "Jesus, Mary and Joseph, may I breathe forth my soul in peace with you." (Source: Father Alberione's Prayerbook: for Religious, Daughters of St. Paul, 1973)

May God be glorified in the good life led by Sr. Cecilia Paula, a devout child of the Church who entered into next life with faith, hope, charity as she also gave her promise of prayer before leaving her earthly life. Amen.

May God console and strengthen the family of Sr. Cecilia and the Daughters of St. Paul at this difficult time. Amen.

As we journey deeper into Lent, let us continue to pray for God's mercy for the repose of the soul of Sr. Cecilia Paula Livingston, FSP, as well as those who perished in the earthquake of Japan today 11 March 2011. "Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen."

Respectfully,
Margie

Opportunities for Philadelphia Area Cooperators

2011-03-03T10:22:00.003-05:00

Sister Mary Peter has sent a list of upcoming Philadelphia-area events that could benefit from Cooperator help.

In particular, Sister has just lost one of her Ash Wednesday book fair volunteers at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral in downtown Philadelphia.

Contact one of the sisters at the Philadelphia convent, 215-969-5068, if you can help out with any of these.

Cooperator Opportunities in the Philadelphia Area

March 5 Saturday
Only two Sisters will be home: Sr. Mary Peter & Sister Neville Christine

• Philadelphia Catechetical Institute, Radnor, PA 8:00 – 3:00 set upon previous afternoon

• St. Albert Book & Media Display at the evening Mass 5:15

Sunday March 6

• Book & Media Display at St. Albert’s, Masses 8:00, 10:00, 12:00

Tuesday March 8
• Holy Martyrs Church, Oreland Display for First communicants and Parents 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ash Wednesday March 9

• Display at all the Masses beginning at 7:00 AM at Sts. Peter & Paul Cathedral downtown Philadelphia with an evening Mass at 5:00 PM

• Display at all the Masses Holy Martyrs Church Oreland, PA 8:30,

Saturday March 12

• Book & Media Display at St. Martha Church

• Book & Media Display at St. Maria Goretti, Hatboro

Sunday March 13

• Book & Media Display at St. Martha Church

• Book & Media Display at St. Maria Goretti, Hatboro

Tuesday March 15

• Sister Mary Lea Hill, FSP speaks on Lenten topics at Nativity of Our Lord, Warminster 7:00 PM

Saturday March 19

• Book & Media Display St. Andrew Church, Newtown, PA Mass at 5L00 PM

• Moms Heart of the Home at Archbishop Shanahan High School

Sunday March 20

• Book & Media Display St. Andrew Church, Newtown, PA Masses 6:45, 7:45; 9:00; 10:30; 12:00

Thursday March 24

• Nativity of Our Lord, Warminster, Pope Event, Release of Pope Benedict XVI’s latest book Part 2 Jesus of Nazareth 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Saturday March 26

• Book & Media Display St. John Bosco Church, Hatboro, PA 5:00 PM English, 7:00 PM Spanish

• Book & Media Display Our Lady of Calvary Church 5:00 PM

Sunday March 27

• Book & Media Display St. John Bosco Church, Hatboro, PA 7:00; 9:00; 11:00

• Book & Media Display Our Lady of Calvary Church 6:30; 8:00; 10:00; Noon

Saturday, April 2

• St. Mary of the Lake, Medford, New Jersey

Sunday, April 3

• St. Mary of the Lake, Medford, New Jersey

Rediscovering Our Baptism through the Lenten Journey

2011-02-26T04:02:00.003-05:00

"God Created Men and Women for Resurrection and Life"
With Ash Wednesday less than two weeks away, our Holy Father has released his annual Lenten message. His central theme this year will be on Baptism, not as "a rite from the past, but the encounter with Christ, which informs the entire existence of the baptized, imparting divine life and calling for sincere conversion..." Pope Benedict XVI traces this theme through many scripture passages, including the writings of Saint Paul.

The Holy Father reminds us that, during Lent, the Church provides "God's Word with particular abundance." He goes on to instruct that "by attentively listening to God, who continues to speak to our hearts, we nourish the itinerary of faith" which began on the day of our Baptism and continues through this Lent. He reminds us to become aware "of our own fragility in order to accept the Grace that frees from sin and infuses new strength in Christ" [Source: Zenit, Feb 22, 2011].

In keeping with his continuing teaching focus on the Scriptures, Pope Benedict XVI's weekly Lenten messages will discuss the role of Baptism in our lives in the light of the Gospel readings for this year's Lenten Sundays: (1) Jesus' temptations in the desert; (2) the Transfiguration; (3) the Samaritan woman; (4) the Man born blind; and (5) the resurrection of Lazarus.

Let's pray with HH Pope Benedict XVI for people of New Zealand

2011-02-24T00:03:00.002-05:00

May God bless the people of New Zealand who are being severely tested by the tragedy of the earthquake that struck Christchurch at 1 p.m. Tuesday, 22 Feb. 2011, local time. Let us ask God to relieve their suffering and to support all who are involved in the rescue operations. May God in His mercy grant eternal rest and peace to all who lost their lives. Amen.

St. Maroun, pray for us.

2011-02-23T22:49:00.006-05:00

Many thanks to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for blessing the statue of St. Maroun at the external wall of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome today 23 February 2011.

I still have a lot to learn from our faithful Christian brothers and sisters in Syria and Lebanon. Over 1600 years ago, St. Maroun, who was a monk and patron of the Maronite Church, lived a deeply spiritual and ascetic life. St. Maroun today is seen as a missionary model for those called to spread the message of Christ. St. Maroun continues to inspire many to follow and remain faithful to the teachings of Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life.

Let us join the Successor of St. Peter in praying for the peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims for the Middle East region and the entire world. St. Maroun, pray for us.

Mid-Atlantic Pauline Cooperator Meeting

2011-02-22T09:15:00.007-05:00

As Pauline Cooperators from four of the Mid-Atlantic states (Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania), over a dozen of us were blessed to participate in a Regional Cooperator gathering yesterday at the Staten Island convent of the Daughters of Saint Paul. While Virginia and Washington, D.C., were not represented, we look forward to further growth in our numbers and to the future welcoming new members from all parts of the Mid-Atlantic Region. Those of us who were able to take the time out of our busy lives to attend this meeting, experienced the privilege of spending an afternoon with a group of such dedicated Paulines!

The meeting was held on Sunday, February 20th, the birthday of Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo. The afternoon began with a lovely luncheon hosted by the sisters, and it was wonderful to catch up with all the sisters at the convent! Sr. Margaret Obrovac, Sr. Mary Peter, and Sr. Mary Thecla joined us later in our prayer and deliberations. Sr. Margaret kindly facilitated our meeting. She read a letter sent to us from Sr. Karen Anderson, who was unable to attend, but who is standing in with the Cooperators for Sr. Margaret Charles during her sabbatical. Sr. Karen requested that all Cooperators send her input for a Log of Pauline Cooperator Activities which she is preparing. Her prayers and words of support gave great encouagement to the attendees.

The meeting continued and built on the discussions from the 2010 Cape May meeting -- on how the Association of Pauline Cooperators can respond more fully to God's call to grow in faith and works. Specific and practical ideas were presented to develop greater communications, mutual support, and mutual spritual enrichment of the region's Pauline Cooperators. More details will follow soon. After the meeting, the gathering ended with an hour of Eucharistic prayer (Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours) and song, with the beautiful accompaniment of Sr. Fay on her guitar. Among many other intentions, we prayed for the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the entire Pauline family as we approach the upcoming international Pauline milestone celebration -- the Centennial of the Pauline Family.

It was a joyful day! We all loook forward to seeing the fruits of this productive gathering actualized in the form of enhanced mutual collaboration and communication in our Pauline tasks for the coming year.

Let's Pray the Rosary to Alleviate Hunger & Global Food Insecurity

2011-01-29T00:14:00.009-05:00

PEACE BE WITH YOU.

Join us in the Church of the Holy Family in Manhattan, right after the 5:30 pm Vigil Mass for Rosary Night on the 5th, first Saturday of February 2011. At 6:30 p.m., we will pray the Rosary of the Virgin Mary to alleviate hunger and the growing food insecurity around the world. Then, let us be inspired by a multi-media presentation by Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, Founder & CEO of Mary’s Meals (formerly known as SIR or Scottish International Relief), an international movement to set up school feeding projects in communities where poverty and hunger prevent children from gaining an education. Mary’s Meals provides daily meals in school for over 450,000 children in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.

Learn of the loves of Magnus for the Blessed Virgin Mary, his work at Mary’s Meals, and his enriching experience in Medjugorje (not an official pilgrim site, but also visited by soon to be beatified Pope John Paul II, Servant of God). Magnus, who is in Haiti helping to rebuild after the earthquake, intends to make a short stop in New York especially to be with us, on his way home to the Highlands of Scotland. Please mark your calendars & be with us to welcome Magnus one of CNN Heroes in 2010.

Do not be afraid, but speak & do not be silent...(Acts 18:9)

2011-01-27T01:20:00.004-05:00

And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man shall attack you to harm you; for I have many people in this city." And he stayed a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. (Acts 18:9-17)

Do Not Be Silenced. Let Christians walk in wisdom in "the Holy Spirit, genuine love, truthful speech, and the power of God..." (2 Cor. 6:6-7), and let them be about their task of spreading the light of life with all confidence and apostolic courage, even to the shedding of their blood. (Dignitatis humanae, 14)

Prayer: O God, may we remain true until death to the faith we profess.

(Source: St. Paul for Every Day of the Year, Edited by the Daughters of St. Paul, 1979)

St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.
St. Timothy and St. Titus, Bishops, pray for us.