#cmcsmen blog

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On Being Authentic

By Frank J Casella, CMCS Director

In today's culture, being authentic is undeniably important. Authenticity, which aligns with truth and thus garners trust, reliability, and belief, is critical. Therefore, I believe it is essential for us, as Catholic men, to have a genuine voice—one that stands out and is easily recognized by others.

Case in point, for the past month as you know, I've been sharing through our email list some blog posts from the archive. To my surprise the response from emails and texts was above that from the original posts, and more then I've seen in the past year. What do I attribute this to?  An authentic voice. 

You see, over the years I've had the great fortune to have been mentored by Bishop Joseph Perry on writing my blog posts. He would not so much tell me what to say, rather how to better say it. But then once he retired I tried out the AI tool provided by the mailing list service, which seem to 'flower up' my words and which I and the team thought was a better read.

I would pull things from the Internet that might take an extra hour or two for me to find and sift through. So then, when I switched back this past month to my authentic voice many of you saw the difference and said so. 

"We hear a lot these days about “intentional discipleship” from preachers, motivational speakers and writers about what it takes to be real Christians in these times.  These speakers highlight for us the increasing secularism of American life, namely, that the modern mind-set is intent on pushing away a religious tone to life as evident in state and federal legislation that advances freedoms beyond that which the scriptures would countenance, or the lifestyles of people we know and love, matched with decreasing numbers attending church or synagogue or mosque.  We Americans believe in God to large percentage even though our actions may not always clearly represent that belief.

... Indeed, nothing is worthwhile unless we do it intentionally and with fervor as upright Christians.  This is the manner in which Jesus lived and died for us.  It is the only way his disciples can live authentically his legacy."

Bishop Joseph N. Perry - Taking Life Seriously 

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The latest blog entry for (Chicago) Catholic men: Marriage Ethics by Bishop Joseph Perry

The latest blog entry for (Chicago) Catholic men: Marriage ethics by Bishop Joseph Perry

[cmcsmen]

The Power of Gratitude

Photo: Family and Friends -  It's important to have family and friends. Copyright 2017 Frank J Casella. Purchase here or view my favorite photos.

By Frank J Casella, CMCS Co-founder and Executive Director.

Embracing the power of gratitude can be a transformative journey, helping us navigate life's challenges and lighting the way to a brighter, more positive perspective.

Focusing on the positive aspects of any situation while fostering a sense of hope enables individuals to overcome challenges.

Gratitude can enhance our resilience, provide us with a stronger sense of purpose and direction, and strengthen our relationships with others.

Nurturing gratitude and emphasizing the positive aspects of life is crucial; it's a perspective that can quickly impact those around you.

Choose Gratitude

When faced with a choice, opt for the path of appreciation. Focus on the positive aspects around you, and turn your challenges into important lessons that promote your growth.

“The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for what He is sending us every day in His goodness.”

– St. Gianna Beretta Molla 

The Generosity Habit, a wonderful book by Matthew Kelly, is a concise read available on Hoopla Digital through your local library. I particularly enjoy Chapter 2, which features quotes on innovative ways to practice generosity

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New Year. New Things.

Image New Year. New Program. - A narrow path is carved through towering snowbanks in mid-west America, illuminated by bright sunlight. The surrounding area is filled with trees and residential houses, creating a wintry neighborhood scene. Copyright 2011 Frank J Casella.  Purchase here or view my popular photos.

As we step into 2024 and reflect on the past year, many Catholic men will establish new resolutions or set fresh goals for the year ahead. However, amid these intentions, it's crucial to seek God's guidance. Attempting to navigate our aspirations solely with our own understanding prioritizes self over divine will. Instead, we should aim to deepen our spirituality and strive to become the holy individuals that God calls us to be. This commitment not only enhances our personal faith but also nurtures our families and parishes, transforming them into a more sacred community or holy church.

In this new year, men are particularly called to take on a greater role in Christian leadership. Our culture often sidelines men, hindering their ability to stand up for what is essential: the presence of God and the integrity of strong families. A powerful New Year’s resolution for men could be, “This year, I will rise to the challenge and advocate for the well-being of my family and the Church!” Achieving this resolution will necessitate spiritual fitness and the internal discipline needed to prepare for a unique battle—one against an invisible foe that exploits distractions to divide, confuse, and weaken us. Rekindling the determination to engage in this struggle will be crucial. I firmly believe that empowering men in their faith is the most pressing responsibility we have to strengthen our families, society, and the Church.

I would like to share a few strategies I'm implementing to nurture my own spiritual growth, which you might find inspiring. Additionally, I'll outline some new initiatives that the CMCS Apostolate will be launching for your involvement in this mission.

At the forefront of my prayer life are both Bishop Perry's ' Virtues of a Catholic Man' and ' A Man's Prayer.' I invite you to incorporate these into your daily or weekly quiet time with the Lord as well. This practice will help you reflect on your mindset as a Catholic man, addressing any spiritual challenges you may face.

For the fourth consecutive year, I find myself actively engaged with the Amen app, utilizing both mobile (Apple or Android) and email platforms. The reason I prefer this app is that, while it’s free (I choose to donate), it offers a daily experience akin to a mini retreat. With a focus on podcasts and reflections, there’s minimal video or text, enabling me to better absorb the reflections, often with my eyes prayerfully closed.

I will also experience the daily Rosary Meditations found at SchoolOfFaith.com - also found on the Amen App - as the meditations shared 'between the Rosary beads' is very enlightening and often things I've not heard of before. 

Please save the date for the Annual Bishop's Men's Forum, taking place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, the weekend following Easter Sunday. This is our main event and the purpose that CMCS was formed. As always, we will provide reminders for you to register once the specifics are finalized. At this time of year, I reflect on how to reduce email frequency while effectively promoting the Forum. Therefore, instead of issuing weekly blog posts, we will shift to sending them out approximately every twelve days. However, the weekly Catholic Man Moment Messages will remain aligned with the Sunday Readings. I trust that this quality-over-quantity strategy will resonate with you and respect your time.

Based on a recent survey, many of you primarily interact with CMCS through this email list, rather than our blog, video channel, or social media. However, we've seen an increase in new subscribers from those other platforms. Therefore, we will focus our engagement efforts mainly on this email list. Still, below you'll find quick links for these platforms to bookmark or visit as needed. I'm excited to adjust our approach into the vision of our Vicar once the new bishops are appointed and integrated into the Vicariates of the archdiocese. Please keep them and their transition in your prayers.

CMCS Website - cmcsmen.net

CMCS Blog - blog.cmcsmen.net

CMCS Videos/Podcasts - video.cmcsmen.net

Manhood News and More - news.cmcsmen.net

Donate to CMCS - give.cmcsmen.net 

CMCS on Mastodon - social.cmcsmen.net 

CMCS Conference Calls - meet.cmcsmen.net

CMCS Newsletter Archives - archive.cmcsmen.net

The Story of CMCS - story.cmcsmen.net

I trust this information will provide support and encouragement in your journey of Catholic manhood, helping you to place Christ at the center of your life. On behalf of Bishop-elect Larry Sullivan - Interim Vicar, Founding Bishop Emeritus Joseph Perry, and the CMCS Team ...

We Send You Our Best Wishes For Peace

And Good Health In The New Year!

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The (Fourth Sunday of Advent) Weekly CMCSMen Blog and Man Moment Message.

Dear CMCS Men, we hope you're doing well! At Catholic Men Chicago Southland (CMCS), we're committed to fostering personal holiness and supporting men, husbands and fathers to live the mission of Catholic manhood - To make Jesus Christ the center of our daily lives. As part of our dedication to the community, we wanted to share some exciting and engaging topics with you for each week of Advent 2024.  Enjoy!  -- The CMCS Team.

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Amidst the Holiday noise and chaos from the commercial industries, the Advent season is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.

If you are a husband and father, your family looks toward you especially at times like this for spiritual leadership and direction.

This Advent, GIVE yourself deliberate time of silence and resolute to bring yourself  – and your family – closer to Christ! 

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Catholic Man Moment Message

How We Can Welcome Jesus Into Our Hearts and Homes?

December 22, 2024 - Fourth Sunday of Advent

Luke 1:39-45, And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

Title: How We Can Welcome Jesus Into Our Hearts and Homes

Gospel Lk 1:39-45 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

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Transcript:

The words from today's Gospel that speak to me are: 'When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb…'

As Catholics, we are called to leap with joy when we sense the presence of Jesus through the Holy Spirit, just like Elizabeth did. This can happen in moments of prayer, worship, or even in the midst of everyday life. When we feel the Spirit stirring within us, we are reminded of the incredible blessing that Jesus is to us, and we are filled with gratitude and praise.

This is the last Sunday before Christmas, and it's a time to reflect on how we can welcome Jesus into our hearts and homes. We're all a little unworthy, not because we don't have much stuff, but because we don't always show the humility, kindness, and faith that we should. Let's try to be like Joseph and Mary, who were humble and kind, and had a lot of faith in God's goodness. We can't be perfect like them, but we can follow their example and try to be a little better every day.

The Christmas season is all about God's love for us, and how he came to earth as a helpless baby to show us how much he cares. It's a pretty amazing thing, and it's something that we can all learn from. Even though we're not perfect, God still loves us and wants to be with us. So let's try to accept the love that he's offering us, and trust that he'll help us become a little more worthy of it every day. ```

The CMCS Men Blog

Catholic Men and Divorce

By Frank J Casella, CMCS Co-founder & Executive Director.

Photo: Husbands and Wives - Holga Effect: There is a religious element to moments in time like this: The commitment of marriage as instituted by God - how Mom and Dad together support their children, and marriage, while juggling their independence as individuals (Visit image page for extended description).  Copyright 2012 Frank J Casella. Purchase here or shop my favorite photos.

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As I reflect on the profound wisdom of Malachi 2:15, I am reminded of the struggles that many couples face, including my own journey through nearly 35 years of marriage. There was a time when my wife and I found ourselves on the brink of divorce, caught in the whirlwind of anger, hurt, and uncertainty. It was a devastating period that tested our faith and commitment to one another. Yet, through perseverance and, more importantly, by the grace and mercy of God, we were able to navigate those turbulent waters and emerge stronger together. Our relationship has become since a constant work in progress, requiring dedication and understanding, a reminder that love is not merely a feeling but a lifelong commitment. The journey is ongoing, filled with its ups and downs, but it is one we continue to embrace, cherishing the bond we share and honoring our vows to each other.

As I engage in conversations with fellow Catholic men about the trials of marriage and the painful realities of divorce in today’s world, a troubling pattern emerges. It seems that marriage, a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, faces unprecedented challenges amid our culture’s shifting values. The decline in weddings, alongside the rising trend of cohabitation, reflects a deeper struggle against the very foundations of our faith. During the festive seasons, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, the impact of divorce looms large, affecting our lives and relationships in profound ways, whether directly or indirectly. It’s a time when Satan appears to intensify his efforts, sowing confusion and distraction, pulling us away from the truths we hold dear. It’s crucial that we remain steadfast in our commitment to the sanctity of marriage and support one another in these challenging times, keeping our faith alive and nurturing the bonds that unite us. 

Avoiding Divorce

In the journey of love, the prospect of divorce often looms like a storm cloud, tempting couples with the promise of relief from their troubles. Yet, as Dr. Gary Chapman reveals in his insightful book, ' The One Year Love Language Minute Devotional,’ the reality is far more complex. Many who choose to part ways discover that their second or third marriages do not necessarily yield the happiness they seek. “The grass being greener on the other side of the fence is a myth,” Chapman wisely notes. This serves as a poignant reminder that divorce should be a last resort, not a quick exit. It’s essential for couples to first dig deep, confronting their differences and seeking resolution—because many have found that, with the right guidance and perseverance, reconciliation is not just possible, but transformative. As we navigate the intricate weave of relationships, let’s hold on to the hope that love can be rekindled, even when times are tough. 

Guys have Hope!

Imagine navigating the rocky waters of a relationship, only to discover that the key to sailing smoothly lies within you. With the right information and proper support, you can become a positive change agent in your relationship. Take a moment to reflect on God's wisdom: guard your heart, remain faithful to your spouse, and seek help when needed. The path toward divorce is often filled with pain and difficulty. Healing isn't a race; it's a journey that unfolds in God's time. In my own experience with divorce, I realized the transformative power of perspective. Dr. Ray Guarendi, in his insightful book ‘ Marriage: Small Steps, Big Rewards’, reminds us, “You can’t change your spouse’s behavior and attitude. But you can change yours.” This wisdom inspired me to approach my interactions differently. For instance, by taking a few moments of steering clear of heated discussions, I began to foster a healthier environment. Embrace the journey of change, and you just might find a way to heal together.

When I went through my divorce experience I found there was very little online about men and divorce, as much as there was for women. So I decided then to do something about it by writing more articles – and this is one of them. 

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The (Third Sunday of Advent) Weekly CMCSMen Blog and Man Moment Message.

Photo: ' Sunrise on the Winter Pine ' - A beautiful backyard pine tree, covered with fresh snow, absorbs the winter sunlight. Copyright Frank J. Casella All Rights Reserved.

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-- Keep Doing Good Things -- Something I like about fresh snow is how it illuminates the sunlight. The sunlight, especially in the morning, illustrates for me the warmth and blessing of God on his creation. And in order to see the beauty of the sunlight, we have to see the shadows behind it. The interplay of both is what I think makes this beauty interesting ... different from day to day .. such as with our own lives. Life is messy and full of struggles and shortcomings. Our lives and culture are full of fault-finding. But there is hope, if we accept it: Mercy. " Mercy is the first attribute of God. God does not want anyone to be lost. His mercy is infinitely greater than our sins " -- Pope Francis Saint Thomas Aquinas defines God's Mercy as the eternal perfection of the Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier in His relation to people. Through Mercy, God brings creatures out of poverty and replenishes their shortcomings. Jesus tells us the next step, “ wisdom is vindicated by her works. ” In other words, let the good things you’re doing do the talking. Keep your eyes on God. And keep doing the good that God is calling you to do. We are now in the season of Advent ... waiting for Christmas. This waiting period is a time to prepare, by removing the clutter in our lives, known as sin, and to better practice what we believe. And not to disbelieve because our expectations have not been met. Like a pine tree is changed by the beauty of the fresh snow, so too can we be changed by Mercy. A blessed Advent, and a Merry Christmas to you!

Frank J Casella, CMCS Executive Director

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Catholic Man Moment Message

Learn more about:  Living a Just and Charitable Life.  St. John The Baptist's words remind us that we are all to a greater or lesser degree tax collectors and sinners, and that we should strive to be just and charitable to our fellow-men.

Gospel - Lk 3:10-18

The crowds asked John the Baptist, “What should we do?” He said to them in reply, “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none.  And whoever has food should do likewise.” Even tax collectors came to be baptized and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” He answered them,  “Stop collecting more than what is prescribed.” Soldiers also asked him, “And what is it that we should do?” He told them, “Do not practice extortion,  do not falsely accuse anyone,  and be satisfied with your wages.”

Now the people were filled with expectation,  and all were asking in their hearts  whether John might be the Christ. John answered them all, saying,  “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn,  but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” Exhorting them in many other ways,  he preached good news to the people.

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The (Second Sunday of Advent) Weekly CMCSMen Blog and Man Moment Message.

What is the Meaning of the Jesse Tree Mentioned on Day 8?

* The Second Sunday of Advent is December 8th, 2024, and the Church is preparing for the coming of Christ at Christmas. * The theme of the day is "Prepare the way of the Lord" and to make straight His paths, as quoted by St. John the Baptist. * The Church is praying for the hearts of believers to be awakened to prepare the way for Christ's coming. * The readings for the day include Baruch 5:1-9, Philippians 1:4-6; 8-11, and Luke 3:1-6, which emphasize the importance of preparing for Christ's coming and being ready to meet Him. * The Church is also celebrating the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, which is transferred to December 9th. * The day's reflection emphasizes the need to humble ourselves, admit our sins, and turn to God with gratitude and repentance in order to receive mercy and live a new year as grateful children of God.

The Jesse Tree is a Christian tradition that originated in the Middle Ages. It is a way of retelling the story of salvation history, from the promise of God to David to the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Jesse Tree is named after Jesse, the father of King David, who is mentioned in the Bible as the ancestor of Jesus (Isaiah 11:1). The tree is often depicted as a large tree with branches that represent the different generations of Jesus' family.

On each day of Advent, a new symbol or ornament is added to the tree, representing a different aspect of the story of salvation. These symbols can be objects, animals, or people from the Bible, and they are often linked to a specific scripture reading or theme.

On Day 8 of the Jesse Tree, the symbol is Jacob, which represents the continuation of God's promise to David and the eventual birth of Jesus. The Jesse Tree is a way of retelling the story of salvation in a visual and engaging way, and it can be a meaningful way to prepare for Christmas and reflect on the significance of Jesus' birth.

Here are some of the symbols that are typically used on the Jesse Tree:

* Day 1: Jesse, the father of King David * Day 2: David, the king who was promised a descendant who would rule forever * Day 3: Solomon, David's son who built the Temple in Jerusalem * Day 4: Isaiah, the prophet who foretold the coming of a messiah * Day 5: Jeremiah, the prophet who warned of the coming judgment and the need for repentance * Day 6: Ezekiel, the prophet who saw visions of the future and the restoration of Israel * Day 7: The prophet Micah, who foretold the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem * Day 8: Jacob, the ancestor of Jesus and the father of the 12 tribes of Israel * Day 9: The angel Gabriel, who announced the birth of Jesus to the Virgin Mary * Day 10: The Virgin Mary, who said "yes" to God's plan and became the mother of Jesus * Day 11: The shepherds, who were the first to hear the news of Jesus' birth * Day 12: The Magi, who followed the star to find Jesus and worship him as king

Each day's symbol is meant to be a reminder of the story of salvation and the promise of God to send a savior to the world.

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Catholic Man Moment Message:

This Weeks Message: The Power of Gratitude.  Being thankful can be a powerful tool in overcoming life's obstacles.

In the journey of life, we often encounter winding roads filled with challenges that may seem insurmountable. Yet, it is in these very moments that embracing gratitude becomes our guiding light. Those who find success amidst adversity are not only resilient but also adept at transforming their struggles into stepping stones toward growth. They choose to surround themselves with a supportive community, seeing the silver lining in each setback. When we shift our focus from the weight of our problems to the grace of a higher power, we begin to witness small victories each day, illuminating our path as though a reassuring glow beckons us forward. So, when faced with choices, let us consciously choose the path of being, grateful for the lessons learned and the opportunities that arise from every twist and turn.

"The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for what He is sending us every day in His goodness."

--€“ St. Gianna Beretta Molla

Gospel - Lk 3:1-6

In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar,  when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea,  and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis,  and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene,  during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas,  the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the desert. John went throughout the whole region of the Jordan,  proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins,  as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah:     A voice of one crying out in the desert:     “Prepare the way of the Lord,         make straight his paths.     Every valley shall be filled         and every mountain and hill shall be made low.     The winding roads shall be made straight,         and the rough ways made smooth,     and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”

“As the journey of Advent continues, as we prepare to celebrate the nativity of Christ, John the Baptist's call to conversion sounds out in our communities. It is a pressing invitation to open our hearts and to welcome the Son of God Who comes among us to make divine judgement manifest. The Father, writes St. John the Evangelist, does not judge anyone, but has entrusted the power of judgement to the Son, because He is the Son of man.

“And it is today, in the present, that we decide our future destiny. It is with our concrete everyday behavior in this life that we determine our eternal fate. At the end of our days on earth, at the moment of death, we will be evaluated on the basis of our likeness or otherwise to the Baby Who is about to be born in the poor grotto of Bethlehem, because He is the measure God has given humanity.

“Through the Gospel John the Baptist continues to speak down the centuries to each generation. His hard clear words bring health to us, the men and women of this day in which even the experience and perception of Christmas often, unfortunately, reflects materialist attitudes. The 'voice' of the great prophet asks us to prepare the way for the coming Lord in the deserts of today, internal and external deserts, thirsting for the water of life which is Christ.”

—Pope Benedict XVI

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What is the Significance of the Solemnity of Immaculate Conception?

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a Catholic feast day that commemorates the belief that the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived without sin. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, which is ordinarily celebrated on Sunday, December 8, is transferred to December 9, and is a Holy Day of Obligation.

The Immaculate Conception is a dogma of the Catholic Church, which means that it is a doctrine that is considered to be a fundamental truth of the faith. The dogma states that Mary was preserved from the stain of original sin from the moment of her conception, and that she was born without sin.

The significance of the Immaculate Conception can be understood in several ways:

1. Mary's role as the mother of God: The Immaculate Conception emphasizes Mary's role as the mother of Jesus, who is the Son of God. It highlights her importance as the one who carried and gave birth to the Savior of the world.

2. Mary's sinlessness: The Immaculate Conception teaches that Mary was sinless from the moment of her conception. This means that she was free from the stain of original sin, which is the sin that all humans inherit from Adam and Eve.

3. Mary's role as a model for Christians: The Immaculate Conception presents Mary as a model for Christians, who are called to live a life of holiness and sinlessness. It encourages Catholics to strive for spiritual perfection and to imitate Mary's virtues.

4. The significance of the feast day: The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a celebration of Mary's sinlessness and her role as the mother of God. It is a time for Catholics to reflect on their own sinfulness and to seek forgiveness and spiritual growth.

In the context of the Catholic Church, the Immaculate Conception is also seen as a way of understanding the mystery of Mary's role in salvation history. It highlights her importance as the one who gave birth to Jesus, who is the Savior of the world.

Here are some key points about the Immaculate Conception:

* The Immaculate Conception is a dogma of the Catholic Church, which means that it is a fundamental truth of the faith. * The Immaculate Conception teaches that Mary was conceived without sin from the moment of her conception. * The Immaculate Conception emphasizes Mary's role as the mother of Jesus and her importance in salvation history. * The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th, nine months before Christmas Day. * The Immaculate Conception is a time for Catholics to reflect on their own sinfulness and to seek forgiveness and spiritual growth.

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The (First Sunday of Advent) Weekly CMCSMen Blog and Man Moment Message

Catholic Man Moment Message: Our Attitude Towards Life

Every Catholic Man Wants to Learn how to Pray to Prepare for Advent Better

Advent is a season observed in many Western Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas.

How do you wait in a culture that is instant information? Every Man I talk with it seems tells me they don’t pray as often as they aught to.  If you are married, when it comes to our Faith we usually depend on our wives to set the tone.

Amidst the holiday noise and chaos from the commercial industries, the Advent season is a time to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Christ.  If you are a husband and father, your family looks toward you especially at times like this for spiritual leadership and direction.

We hear about providing for our families financially and in other ways but, rarely do we hear about, or focus, provision and protection as prayer.

“Silence is so lacking in this world which is often too noisy, which is not favorable to recollection and listening to the voice of God,” Pope Benedict XVI said. “In this time of preparation for Christmas, let us cultivate interior recollection so as to receive and keep Jesus in our lives.”

It’s not so much then about learning to pray to prepare for advent, but leading an example of silence that makes a positive and lasting impression on you and your family. Like the Nun’s used to tell me in 1st Grade ”God gave you two ears and one mouth, so that you listen more than talk”

Prepare your heart and minds for Christmas with daily resources, prayer and activities at usccb.org/advent.

What would it take for you to have the best Christmas of your life?

Learn about BEST ADVENT EVER from Dynamic Catholic.

Spend your time with Advent Gospel Reflections from Bishop Barron.

Advent prayers in the Amen app.

The Advent Workshop from the Catholic Culture website.

Advent provides a reason to try new habits. One we strongly suggest is the  “Family Prayer Before Meals” (PDF) by Bishop Joseph Perry.  Statistics tells us that when a family breaks bread and prays together at least 3 times per week, it makes a noticeable difference in your children’s stability and security as a family unit.

This Advent, GIVE yourself deliberate time of silence and resolute to bring yourself  – and your family – closer to Christ!

[cmcsmen]

Bishop Emeritus Joseph N Perry: Keep Us Thankful O Lord

10 lepers approached Jesus with the request that He heal them.  Jesus instructed them to first go to the priests and offer what Moses has prescribed.  And, on their way they were  cleansed.  One of them, realizing he had been cured, retook his steps to find Jesus and express his gratitude to God.  Jesus, upon receiving the man, was surprised that only one was inspired enough to give God thanks.  “Where are the other nine,” Jesus explained, sadly.  “Was there no one to give thanks to God except this foreigner?”  Luke 17, 11-19

In my short life thus far I have come to understand that thanksgiving takes on its highest meaning following experiences like suffering, chaos, deprivation, poverty and loss.

We raise our children to say thank-you whenever they receive something from someone’s generosity.  However, it takes time and life-experience for our children to understand the real power behind thanks.

For the pilgrims of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, of that first Thanksgiving in the year of our Lord 1621, the beauty of the world was found in its bounty.  They could hear the author of the Old Testament Book of Deuteronomy say, “The Lord, your God, is bringing you into a good country, a land with streams of water, with springs and fountains welling up in the hills and valleys, a land of wheat and barley, of vine and fig trees.”

Having arrived in an untamed world underneath it all for them was a deep love of nature and a sense that God was everywhere in the beauty and bounty of the earth.  They knelt to give thanks for that generous gift.  They were now safe after a long arduous journey and a hard winter of deprivation and the deaths of a number of their companions.

Now, in the Plymouth wilderness sitting down with first Americans, eating foods from the wild never before tasted, undoubtedly motivated by gratitude for survival but more deeply moved by a recognition that the graciousness of God had pulled them through the dark, cold days of the struggle to form a new colony away from oppression and religious persecution in their homeland from whence they came.

Pilgrims, they were trustees for future generations and were to set an example for a civilized new world, to, as St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians urges, sing “with gratitude in your hearts to God.”

So, where do the lepers of today’s Gospel come in?  Well, their story is one of giving and receiving.  A thanksgiving story, no doubt.

The inability to give or show gratitude is a mark of disfigurement, a kind of spiritual leprosy.  One who can neither give nor receive can never enter into a relationship of grace, a covenant of love. The leper who returned to Jesus to say “thanks” enters into a relationship with God.

The other nine stood far off, negating even the possibility that something could happen. They stood on the fringes of life because they could not, in their hearts, find time to give thanks. Their spirits remained leprous.  It is almost as if they took for granted that they would be cured, as if it were their right.  Their bodies were now whole, their souls still marked with decay.

Everyone of us has something for which to be thankful.  It helps, I think, to recall the chaos, suffering, deprivation that has marked your life so that power can be given the thanks you raise in prayer on Thanksgiving Day.  For there is wisdom to be discovered from the crosses we are asked to carry in life.

Like the pilgrims, most of us have fought the storms, banished the threats, overcome the fears and made covenants of friendship with God and each other. We are all pilgrims walking an earthly path on the way to a heavenly land where we will be giving thanks for all eternity.

Sitting down to the big meal seems like the highlight of Thanksgiving, but the highlight really comes a couple hours later.  The pumpkin pie is gone, the turkey is picked over, the dishes are done, relatives, friends and guests are gone, the kids and pets are snoozing and somehow, when all is quieted down, the labor for the feast is done, in the depth of your soul you join a whole nation, satiated with food and drink, as if embraced by the wide arms of God, and give a sigh of relief and say “Thank you God!”

Before you sit down to feast at a table others have prepared, remember to say thanks to the wife, the kids and anyone else who deserves to sense your heart and feel what you really mean to them.  Remember to lead your household in prayer in thanks to an all provident God!

We are born into this world with empty hands and we take nothing from this world with us in the end.  All that we have, we receive from the generosity of God.  Today, we thank God for his care of us and praise him for his kindness.

Please respond, “Keep us thankful O Lord!”

We give you thanks O God for our Holy Father the Pope, our bishop, and his assistant bishops and all of our pastors who share in your ministry and authority; that you may guide them so that they exercise your power wisely, let us pray to the Lord.

We give thanks O God for the many blessings you have showered upon us. For those who have not received as much of your bounty, for the poor and needy of your world, the unemployed and those who struggle in any way, we pray to the Lord.

We give thanks O God for your limitless mercy and the treasury of your goodness which you share with us.  That those who do not recognize your love may become aware of your kindness, let us pray to the Lord.

We give thanks O God for the family and friends you have given us.  That they may always know your generosity and protection and be appreciative of your gifts, let us pray to the Lord.

We give thanks O God for the gift of redemption and the forgiveness of our sins; that our lives may show forth more clearly the predilection we enjoy by your Son’s death and resurrection for our sakes, we pray to the Lord.

Almighty Father, we give thanks to your majesty for the many gifts we have received; we ask you to continue your kindness and forsake us not, through Christ our Lord.  Amen!

+ JNP 2011

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Weekly Catholic Man Spirituality Message: Belonging to the Truth

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November 24, 2024

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

Topic: Belonging to the Truth

Gospel Jn 18:33b-37 Pilate said to Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, "Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?" Pilate answered, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here." So Pilate said to him, "Then you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."

Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.

In the passage from John 18:33-37, we see a profound exchange between Pilate and Jesus regarding the nature of kingship. Jesus reveals that while he is indeed a king, His kingdom transcends earthly realms. This serves as a reminder that Christ's mission was not to ensure our temporal happiness or earthly prosperity, but to pave the way for our eternal joy in heaven. As Catholic men committed to the truth, it is essential for us to reflect on this divine purpose. Our lives should be oriented towards this higher calling, recognizing that all other pursuits are secondary to our spiritual journey. Let gratitude for Christ's sacrifice inspire us to fulfill our roles in the world, living out our faith with purpose and dedication.

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe is celebrated on November 24, 2024, emphasizing Christ's royalty over individuals, families, society, governments, and nations.

The readings for this day, including Daniel 7:13-14, Revelation 1:5-8, and John 18:33-37, highlight Christ's kingship, his triumph over sin and death, and his role as the Messiah who suffered for mankind.

This feast was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925 to counter secularism and remind people of Christ's dominion over all creation.

The liturgy for this feast day portrays Christ as a radiant, majestic, and divine King, reflecting the classic liturgy's perspective.

The readings encourage gratitude to Christ for his humiliations and sufferings endured on our behalf, and loyalty to him as our King and Savior.

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A Father’s Love is Never Time Wasted

Families, as called the domestic church, have the opportunity to make the family meal a time of prayerful encounter with one another and with Jesus. At a family meal we share our experiences of the day and connect them with the experiences of others in the family.

We can also enjoy the meal as an opportunity to reflect upon our family life in light of the Scriptures, that connects us to Jesus too.

Choose a family meal each week to share each of our experiences of the week. Perhaps take turns as family members to plan and prepare the meal together. Begin the meal by reading the Gospel for the day. As you eat, talk together about how these events speak to our lives in the light of Scripture.

Next, each family member can share the things that are going on in his or her life. Consider what Jesus might say to each person if he were sitting at your dinner table. Conclude with a special prayer after your dinner.

Dad’s, as the priest of your family the domestic church, pray a prayer of blessing for each family member, asking that Jesus continue to be present in each person’s life, helping each one to be a better follower of Jesus. Conclude with a Sign of Peace.

A Family Prayer Before Meals © Bishop Joseph N. Perry, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Chicago.

O God and Father, we acknowledge you as the Provider for this family. Bless each one of us. Protect our comings and goings. We beg your mercy upon each of us. Preserve us in your love. Guide us that every thing we say to each other and do for each other may take place under your inspiration. May our family imitate the family you provided for your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, his mother the ever Blessed Virgin Mary, and his Foster Father, Saint Joseph. And for the food you have provided for us at this table (composed by Bishop Joseph N. Perry): Bless us O Lord and these thy gifts, which we are about to receive from thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen!

A father’s love for his own child is only a glimpse of A Father’s Love from the Lord Jesus. Just like how Jesus says ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’, when you feel distant from God, who moved?

In other words, does your relationship with your children example A Father’s Love that you have with the Lord. If not, what has stopped that from happening?

Our first job as a Dad is to get our family to Heaven. Each child is different in making the connection and developing the relationship. It is never time wasted because, as a Father, the impact you have on your family can go three generations deep.

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Weekly Catholic Man Spirituality Message: Pray While You Are Doing Well

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November 17, 2024 Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

In today's reflection on the Gospel of Mark 13:24-32, we encounter some obscurities, yet the essential message remains clear. We are reminded to always be prepared to face our judgment, as we do not know the exact day or hour of our departure from this life. While the specifics of when or how the world will end may not significantly concern us, what truly matters is the state of our consciences at the moment we leave this world. This teaching encourages us to live with intention and mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of our eternal destiny.

A very practical way to assess our relationship with God and the world around us is to ask ourselves the urgent question: "How would I fare if I were called to render an account of stewardship tonight?" This reflection, inspired by today’s readings, invites us to evaluate our lives and our actions. If we find areas that require correction, it’s crucial to act swiftly and make the necessary changes. We may receive further opportunities to amend our ways, but there's no guarantee. If we truly value our eternal happiness, we must heed this call to reflection and strive to align our lives with God's will, seeking peace with both God and our neighbors, and relying on His grace to guide us towards righteousness.

Gospel Mk 13:24-32 Jesus said to his disciples: "In those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.

"And then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in the clouds' with great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.

"Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that he is near, at the gates. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

"But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111724.cfm

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Catholic Man Moment: The Greater the Sacrifice, the Greater the Reward

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The Greater the Sacrifice, the Greater the Reward.

November 10, 2024

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

This Gospel reading encourages followers of Christ to emulate his humility and to be ready to help others in need, even if it requires personal sacrifice.

Gospel Mk 12:38-44 or 12:41-44 In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds, "Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation."

He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, "Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood."

In St. Mark 12:38-44, we encounter a critical issue illustrated by our Lord's sharp condemnation of the Scribes, whose inflated sense of self-importance undermined the very religion they claimed to uphold. This serves as a potent reminder for all believers: the pursuit of admiration and respect from others when performing good deeds can lead us astray. Instead, we are called to seek God's approval, focusing on eternal reward rather than fleeting earthly praise. The contrast is further exemplified by the widow, whose humble offering stands in stark opposition to the arrogance of the Scribes. Her detachment from material wealth and reliance on God highlight the path to true blessedness. The solution lies in embracing a spirit of humility, understanding that genuine faith is marked not by public recognition but by sincere devotion to God’s will.

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Intro Video with Fr. Tim Berryhill for Catholic Men's Online Men's Forum

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Very Reverend Sullivan's Fall Online Chicago Catholic Men's Forum - With Fr. Timothy Berryhill -

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 - 7pm to 8:30pm Central Time

Topic: Prayer for the Life of the Family

This is a free event with optional free-will offering.

Watch this short video on the registration page to learn more about what will be shared and why you as a Catholic man should participate.

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Take Care Of Your Soul

"Take care of your body as if you were going to live forever; and take care of your soul as if you were going to die tomorrow." --- Saint Augustine

“If you don't behave as you believe, you will end by believing as you behave.” ― Fulton J. Sheen

Statistics say that many of us spend our idle time scrolling social media or reading news headlines, being addicted to politics or our favorite sports team. But few of us spend time growing in holiness and prayer. Silence is the best way to know God's will for our lives. Distractions, it is said, tell us something about what is more important to us than God.

The best way to live out your mission as a Catholic man is to eat and breathe, and sleep what it means to be a Catholic man. Transform your good intentions into right action to Foster a holy church, and a holy domestic Church which is our home as a catechism caused it.

This means, to name a few, to live the fundamentals of the faith, and to spend time with things that Inspire you to fill your soul.

One of the initiatives of cmcs is to help you with this, so if you have not seen it already, we have a feed of inspirational content that relates to Catholic manhood. We update it a few times a week, so you can either bookmark it or download the app to get notifications of each new post.

There are no algorithms, and to learn more how you use it click here.

It's called Chicago Catholic man, check it out at the link below and let us know what you think!

Visit the blog feed at - https://chicagocatholicman.tumblr.com/

“You are what you are and you are where you are because of what has gone into your mind. You change what you are and you change where you are by changing what goes into your mind.” ― Zig Ziglar

The greatest legacy any one of us can pass down to future generations is not money or power, but a legacy of character and faith.

-- Zig Ziglar

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Weekly Catholic Man Spirituality Video: You Are Not Far from the Kingdom of God

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November 3, 2024 Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time Mark 12:28b-34: Love the Lord your God. Love your neighbor.

"You are not far from the kingdom of God."

"One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.

The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these (Mk 12:28-31)."

"You are not far from the kingdom of God." The Gospel reading comes from Mark 12:28-34. A clear lesson that resonates with every sincere Christian in today's gospel is that the bedrock of our Christian faith is love for God and our neighbors. How can we embody this as Catholic men? By adhering to these two commandments, we are "fulfilling the whole law and the prophets," demonstrating our service to God and expressing our gratitude for His many blessings. A Catholic man who follows Christ with love is actively participating in the earthly kingdom of God while journeying safely toward God's eternal realm of peace and happiness.