"Hey Mom, can we watch a show?" I quickly scanned the house and zipped through my mental checklist. Schoolwork and chores were finished, they had played outside for several hours, and, frankly, I wanted to make dinner in blessed silence. "Sure!" I said, "Just no twaddle." My kids have heard me say this hundreds of times. When they sit down to enjoy a show, I do not want it to oppose what I spend my days trying to teach them. Which, as I'm sure you already know, leaves us with approximately 1.4 options. Until now, when Juice Box enters our black box. Engaging the Senses Makes Spiritual Sense Rob Kaczmark, the creator of Spirit Juice Studios, was inspired by his own children and role as a father to create something for kids that would teach them the Catholic Faith in an engaging and impactful way. The Catholic Church desperately needs higher quality children’s programming to help teach kids the basics of their faith in a compelling and age-appropriate way. With two young sons of my own, I now realize that this content would be invaluable to me and many other Catholic parents, and I realized that Spirit Juice can help create it. As a mom and trained catechist, I couldn't agree more. If you've heard your kids sing songs from Daniel Tiger for days on end or spout off animal facts from Wild Kratts, then you've witnessed the power of story and song when it comes to learning. When our senses are engaged with that which we are exploring, the knowledge sinks more deeply than if we passively receive the information. We learn in layers, and the creators of Juice Box understand this. Juice Box seeks not only to teach kids ages 2 to 6 about Catholicism, but to get them excited about what their Faith has to offer. Just as the liturgies and traditions of our Church engage our senses to deepen our prayer, Juice Box strives to make disciples through delight. Our kids won't merely learn facts about their Faith, they'll also be encouraged to live it. The Friends on Our Journey The jubilant hosts, Miss Mel and Steve, are two seasoned performers, which is evident in the first look video. They are also devout Catholics trained in ministry and faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church (as is Spirit Juice Studio as a whole), so we can rest assured that our children are receiving solid instruction in the Faith. In their premiere season, Juice Box is setting out to produce four episodes on the topics of: Prayer The Mass ABCs of Catholics Saints But as we need one another in the Communion of Saints, we need to put our efforts together to help this show take flight.   A Timely Task Juice Box has taken to Kickstarter to crowdfund its first season, and they've brought along some goodies for those willing to partner with them in this mission. Supporters of the Kickstarter campaign will receive a variety of rewards based on their giving level, including: digital downloads of the episodes supplemental teaching resources to accompany the episodes Juice Box-branded socks from Catholic company Sock Religious and more! The campaign has until the end of this month to reach its funding goal or else it will not become a reality. Moms, aunts, and any friends who love the kids in your life: we need this show! Pass the Juice Box, Please! I take seriously my role as primary educator of my children, and I could not be more grateful to now have Juice Box in my corner. I have already told many friends about this show, and we are all eager to have a worthy television option for our kids. No longer will my children need to beg me to watch a show; I'll be the one suggesting time spent with Juice Box. I'm ready to introduce them to a show that will engage their minds and transform their hearts. Here's to making more dinners in peace while our kids learn about Jesus! Have you backed Juice Box yet? Which episode of season one are you most excited to see?   [bctt tweet="Hey Kids, Go Watch Juice Box #BISblog //" via="no"]   This post is sponsored by Spirit Juice Studios. All opinions are my own! THE PERFECT BOOK FOR KIDS Rise Up will open up beautiful conversations with your children about the virtues. . This will bring beautiful fruit to your prayer life and to your children's prayer lives. GET RISE UP

His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, his kingship shall not be destroyed. // Daniel 7:14 Love this from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

A few years ago, a colleague at work asked, "Why does the Catholic Church spend so much money on expensive cathedrals when half of the world suffers in poverty?" I wasn’t surprised. As an atheist turned Catholic, I have been there and wonder how many find themselves in the same dilemma today. How can we witness the greatness and grandeur of our history in a secularized world? That afternoon, we spent some time over coffee, reasoning and relaying our hearts and I have never been more grateful for my conversion. Today, as we commemorate the Feast of the Dedication of two of the greatest churches in Catholicism—the Basilicas of Saint Peter and Saint Paul—we pause to remember why our churches are so ornate, exquisite, and transcendent. They point us toward Heaven and they remind us of our deepest identity as sons and daughters of an eternal God. Celebration of Life For you have made the whole world a temple of your glory, that your name might everywhere be extolled, yet you allow us to consecrate to you apt places for the divine mysteries. // from the Rite of the Dedication Throughout history, the church building has been understood as a sacramental image of Heaven which gives a foretaste of the heavenly liturgy. The Book of Revelation gives a mystical vision of Heaven, calling it the “New Jerusalem,” a radiant, jewel-like city filled with heavenly beings singing God’s praises in the eternal liturgy. This image provides the model for every earthly Church building which, as Vatican II reminds us, manifests the “signs and symbols of the heavenly realities” through the medium of the arts: architecture, paintings, statues, stained glass, and so on. But the church isn’t just a building. It is a place of divine encounter. It is a place of refuge. Here, we enter as thirsty pilgrims to drink from the Fount of Living Waters. Here we are transformed by the Eucharist, the “source and summit” of our Christian life. Here, we celebrate what it means to be "Catholic" as the Body of Christ. Here we are dismissed, as priests, prophets, and kings to change the world. A Standing Testimony The architecture, grandeur, and splendor of our churches are testimonials to history, faith, and sacrifice. They are reminders that we are "living stones" built into a spiritual house (see 1 Peter 2:5), reflecting God’s glory on earth, pointing people heavenward—His people, people like Peter and Paul, people like you and me! Fallen but Not Defeated It is hard to walk the streets of Rome and not be moved thinking about the tender love that beckoned these passionate followers of Jesus Christ. Peter, called the "rock," was known for his impetuous nature. How could an ordinary fisherman of Galilee—let alone someone who denied the Lord—find himself as Vicar of Rome? Likewise, Paul, formerly Saul, made his name as a persecutor of Christians who vehemently opposed the Church. Yet, all of the New Testament comes alive because of his prolific writings and witness. Peter and Paul are key witnesses to the reality and veracity of Jesus Christ. They remind us that the starting point of the Christian life is not our worthiness, it is grace. Despite their flawed past and abrasive personalities, Peter and Paul were not defeated. Both men went on to become key figures in early Christianity and great Saints. How many times might Peter have thought back to his denial? How many scruples might Paul have felt remembering how many he had hurt? Humanly, they had failed. Yet, they encountered a love greater than failure and so can we. Our Redeemer lives. In the economy of His Grace, nothing is wasted but all is redeemed and transformed, even our worst sins, even our most foolish mistakes. Unity in Diversity It is no secret that Peter and Paul were often at loggerheads with one another. When Peter’s lapse in judgment at Antioch separated him from Gentile believers “fearing the circumcision party” (see Galatians 2:12), Paul moved forward and “opposed him to his face” (see Galatians 2:11). But he didn’t do so to score points, he genuinely desired for Peter to know the truth. He desired his greater good. Pope Francis reminds us, “Unity is possible only when Christians are able to shift the focus from themselves, to the Word of God who demands to be heard, accepted, and witnessed in the world.” How different would our communities look like if we made unity our priority? How many today are wounded with pride and envy simply because they have elevated the "I" above the "we?" How often do we forget that God’s call for our life did not begin when we had all the answers? Isn’t it from this posture that we make room for people to be messy? There will Always Be Conflict Interpersonal conflict doesn’t go away with inattention. It festers. Our conflicted times are not meant to increase earthly comforts, they are meant to shake our self-righteous confidence and turn our gaze towards Heaven. Saint Peter and Saint Paul served the Lord in very different ways, yet they were united because of their encounter with redemptive love. This love propelled them toward one another, not away. Despite their differences, Paul specifically called out to Peter of all the Apostles (see 1 Corinthians 15:5), admiring him, and Peter referred to Paul as "our beloved brother"(see 2 Peter 3:15). The Church doesn’t need activists; she needs apostles. She needs witnesses. This doesn't mean we have to be great friends or agree with people who have contradictory views just so we avoid conflict. Rather, it means that we recognize the intrinsic value of the human person before us who demands our kindness and patience. Rather than gossip, we can choose dialogue. Rather than competition, we can choose cooperation. Rather than focusing on our differences, we can celebrate diversity. Rather than seeing theological and ecclesial differences as barriers to growth, we can use them as catalysts for engagement, enrichment, and empowerment. The Bond of Peace The Church in all its diversity is one because the Holy Spirit makes us one. Only the Holy Spirit can break barriers and build bridges. Only the Holy Spirit can heal our wrecking wounds. Only the Holy Spirit can give us power to be living stones. Where is God calling you to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace? Tombs of Triumph Peter and Paul were martyred about the same time (67 A.D.) during Nero’s persecution in Rome. Saint Peter’s Basilica is built over his tomb and Saint Paul’s Basilica, “outside the walls” of Rome, is built on the site where Paul was murdered. These are not just tombs, these are stories of triumph. Despite persecution, despite martyrdom, despite the fire and plague, the Church stands and God wins. Sister, regardless of your past, regardless of how your present looks, this is not the end of the story. Christ the cornerstone is not a dead stone! He is alive! And in Him, we come alive, we rise above our ashes, we triumph over our trials and we propel forward. Peter and Paul could not have known the future—but they knew Christ, their Hope and Resurrection. Nero thought he had won when Peter was crucified upside down and Paul was beheaded. Instead, he had crowned them with exquisite crowns of martyrdom and raised historical monuments over their remains. Why Our Churches are Beautiful It is these jewels that adorn our churches and make them beautiful. It is this sacrifice that gives purpose to our pilgrim journey. It is this "dedication" that reminds us that we are a work in progress—a grand masterpiece being built into a spiritual house, laden with exquisite stones of victory that far outweighs all the riches of the world.   [bctt tweet="Peter + Paul: Saintly Polar Opposites #BISblog //" via="no"]

Fresh flowers adorn the kitchen table. The morning sun streams through the slats on the shutters of the windows. Morning coffee and a baked treat fill the house with delicious aromas. These are some of my favorite homey things. The idea of “home” is so comforting. Some beloved authors have highlighted why. As Louisa May Alcott put it: The power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely. Or, as Jane Austen observed: There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort. Miss Austen also perceived, correctly, of course: Good apple pies are a considerable part of domestic happiness. Cultivating a Home Cultivating the domestic arts as a Catholic woman is a holy joy, I have found. But it encompasses so much more than just decor and good food, though those are important. The feminine genius is synonymous with “home”: cultivating care and comfort and creating a happy haven for souls. From incorporating Catholic elements such as a crucifix, a Marian statue, holy cards, and images of the Saints to making meals for family and friends, domestic life offers many opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. Simple Joys are the Grandeur of Life I have been reading letters my paternal grandma wrote long ago, praying for her soul as I read about how much we have in common, including things so connected to all that is home: loving to bake and cook and enjoying the beauty of peonies and fall. Coffee always reminds me of my blessed chats with my maternal grandpa. So I sip and pray. These simple domestic joys have a special place in my heart. Blessed conversations mean so much, too, from discussing family history to sharing cherished memories of loved ones. The blessed things of home and hearth, in my view, are linked to the feminine genius and authentic femininity, and those we naturally care for, because of the One we serve as we serve our kin and neighbor alike. After all, “ … in the midst of our specific responsibilities in the here and now, we can find Christ” (Theology of Home II). Christ is Our Home As Catholic women, Christ is the center of our lives and our domestic dwellings. “Christ is already here among our homes and our souls” (Theology of Home). Christ is indeed the heart of home. The haven of home is a lovely concept—how we are nurtured and blessed in the confines within alongside those we love, with Jesus at the center. Love of Christ compels us to put that love into service of others. As Emily Malloy, food and floral design editor for Theology of Home, posted recently: “hospitality is also a charism and love in action.” Of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and Home Sweet memories of all things domestic are closer to my heart each year as Thanksgiving approaches and as the Church today celebrates the feast of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, a pious princess who lived in the 13th century. Saint Elizabeth of Hungary reminds me that the things of home and hearth are vital, with love as the foundation. Love … was the basis of her whole life. // The Greatest of These Is Love: The Life of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Among her charitable endeavors, Saint Elizabeth brought bread to the poor daily, as illustrated in my favorite image of her, “The Charity of St. Elizabeth of Hungary” (1895). Feeding Body and Soul When I’m in my kitchen, I feel close to dear Saint Elizabeth. In fact, I received a special answer to prayer on her feast day a few years ago. Often when I am in the kitchen, I think of her and seek her intercession, contemplating how baking and charity are linked. So whether I am baking my paternal grandma’s banana bread (so good) or something pumpkin (bread and muffins are my preference) or making a tried-and-true creation, I focus on how feeding others extends to care for souls. As Thanksgiving approaches, this poignant quote about the holy witness of another dear Saint comes to mind, too—for it reflects the worthy witness of Saint Elizabeth: The more we live in an atmosphere of gratitude, the more open our hearts are, and the more God can lead us and visit us. Thérèse understood this thoroughly and tried to practice it all the time …” // The Way of Trust and Love: A Retreat Guide by St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Father Jacques Philippe Bread, Roses, and Sanctity The saints are such blessed company. Indeed, as Pope Benedict XVI reminded the faithful, “the saints are friends and models of life for us.” Did you know roses, such a beloved flower of love amid domestic life, connect Elizabeth and Thérèse? Once, when Elizabeth set off “secretly on an errand of mercy ... the bread she was trying to conceal was suddenly turned into roses.” Thérèse, of course, is known for sending down a shower of roses. Both holy women died at the young age of 24. But their loving legacy lives on in our hearts—and homes.   [bctt tweet="Saint Elizabeth of Hungary: Home and Hearth #BISblog //" via="no"]   Amy Smith is the associate editor of the National Catholic Register, a service of EWTN, and the author of The Plans God Has for You: Hopeful Lessons for Young Women. Amy spends her days drinking coffee while editing features; she likes to write about everything from hope and Saints (her favorites are Thérèse and Gianna) to Jane Austen. You can find out more about her here.   This post contains affiliate links. Thanks so much for supporting the ministry of Blessed is She!

As I scanned the first few lines of the email, I my heart felt as though it sank into my toes. “Thank you so much for your interest in…. At this time we are pursuing a different candidate whose experience better meets our needs… we wish you all the best in your search.” Another rejection email. Another few fruitless hours spent crafting the perfect cover letter and preparing for interviews. Another setback. Searching for a new job at any phase in life can be a draining experience. Whether you’ve lost your current position, are stuck in a toxic work environment, or just aching for a career change, the search for a new role can be an intimidating prospect and a beautiful invitation to step forward in faith. Job Searching with Jesus As you navigate your job search, here are four ways to invite God into the journey with you. 1. Find a verse. The Bible is full of incredible verses about the presence of God, His care, and His providence. I would encourage you to take time and really talk with God about what He wants to speak to you in this season of searching. Maybe He is inviting you to trust or place your hope in Him. Or maybe He’s simply asking you to remember your worth comes not from your work but from your identity as His daughter. Whatever He wants to communicate to you, He’ll find a way to put on your heart. And once He does, keep it physically close to you. Save it in the notes on your phone. Make it your computer lock screen. Write it on a sticky note and put it on your bathroom mirror. Highlight it in your Bible. Keep it close, accessible and at the forefront of your mind. There are many voices you can listen to while looking for a new position, make sure you are always able to hear the Lord’s loud and clear. 2. Phone a friend. The Saints are powerful friends and advocates for us in Heaven. When looking for a job, there are a few in particular I would recommend inviting to walk with you. First and foremost, your own patron or confirmation Saint, who is always in your corner. Other great additions to your support team include Saint Cajetan, the patron Saint of job seekers, Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, or if you’re really feeling discouraged, Saint Jude, the patron of hopeless causes. Whether it is through your daily prayer or through a structured novena, you can never go wrong asking for help from these incredible advocates. After all, who better to talk to about your desire for meaningful and fruitful work than the man who provided for Mary and Jesus? Rest assured that the Saints are there to intercede and help bring your hopes and needs before the Father. 3. Extend the invite. This practice may seem small or insignificant, but I can assure you, it is so fruitful. Invite the Lord into each moment of your job search by offering a small prayer each step of the way. Some of my favorites are: “Come, Holy Spirit” and “Jesus, I trust in You.” Keep it short and simple and say it audibly whenever you can. Before clicking submit on that application.... Jesus I trust in You. Before answering the call on that phone interview... Come Holy Spirit. Some days you’ll say it in full confidence, other days it might not come as easily. But just extending the invitation allows the Lord to walk alongside us in a real and tangible way. 4. Keep it honest. When you are going through a job search the rollercoaster of emotions be overwhelming and it is easy to feel like you are spiraling out of control. No matter what’s going on in your search process, remember: keep talking to the Lord about it. He wants you. Not you at your best. Not you after you’ve gotten your emotions in check. You. The you that is heartbroken after not getting the job. The you that is frustrated when the search drags on. The you that is worn out, cranky, or irritated. Bring it all to Him. He wants it all. And He wants all of you. Take everything to Him, without censoring yourself or holding back. He can take it, and what’s more: He wants to. You're Not Searching Alone No matter where you are in your job search process sister, I can promise you are never alone. Jesus wants to walk with you through every season, and He longs to be near you in a special way during this time of transition. Are you searching for a job right now? Drop a line in the comments below and we will pray for your search!   [bctt tweet="Job Searching with Jesus #BISblog //" via="no"]   Shelby Hennen is a young professional who hails from the Midwestern metropolis of Kansas City, MO. She loves a good book, a good chat with a friend, and a good taco joint. HIS WORD CHANGES LIVES God is speaking to you through His Word. In this personal study, you will learn to hear God's voice by reading slowly and praying deeply. BEGIN THE JOURNEY

Is there anything I can say at this time of year that isn’t cliché when it comes to the passing of time or the general sense or urgency where we hope to find peace? As we head into the final weeks of ordinary time that propel us into the gentle and earth-shattering season of Advent, one thing is for sure: Rest is likely about to get put onto the back burner again (if it hasn’t been already). Particularly as we look forward to moving collectively back into a more traditional season of gathering, this time of giving gratitude may very well have the feel of an accelerator rather than the opportunity to catch our breath. However, there is good news, friends! We are not the first to feel this dissonance—and we do not have to stay in this mindset. Cadence of Rest Even if we have gotten out of the habit, we have been commanded to rest ... weekly! This is such glorious permission to step off the treadmill of productivity. Not just when we are overwhelmed or in a season of spiritual growth, but consistently, each week. Sundays were never intended for laundry and groceries, but for actual nourishment and revitalization. Perhaps this season, rest is the gift we are being offered; not because we have "earned it," or our lists have been checked off, but because it is a grace always available to us and offered to us in love by the One who knows us best. Gathering Wisdom from the Saints God gave us the commandment to rest because He knew how self-important we would find the uninterrupted work of our hands. Without the opportunity to step away from work, we might begin to believe that our worth (or the course of the earth) is dependent upon our productivity, rather than the One who created us to do said work and offers respite to our souls. We need frequent reminders that the fate of the universe is not dependent upon our efforts. God lovingly provides that for us if we are open to it. You Don’t Have to Take My Word for It Do you remember watching Reading Rainbow in grade school? In every episode, LeVar Burton would introduce and recommend a great new book to the audience, before panning to a gaggle of children ready to endorse the goodness or silliness of the book and he would say: "But you don’t have to take my word for it." In the same way, I take comfort in the fact that we are not the first to need encouragement to offer a commodity as precious as our time to the Lord. As I imagine the daily lives of the Saints, I have no doubt that they could have filled their every waking hour with the Corporal or Spiritual Works of Mercy. So involved were they in promoting the mission of the Gospels that they, more than most, might well have been consumed by the work of their hands. However, they offer wise insight into the heart of a servant who is willing to let the final outcome rest on the work of God’s hands, rather than their own. Saint Quotes When You Need Rest Should we need reminding (and I know I do!), here is some fantastic wisdom from a few spiritual giants, on whose shoulders we are privileged to stand. It is such a folly to pass one's time fretting, instead of resting quietly on the heart of Jesus. // Saint Therese of Lisieux God is there in these moments of rest and can give us in a single instant exactly what we need. // Edith Stein (Saint Theresa Benedicta of the Cross) We find rest in those we love, and provide resting place to those who love us. // Saint Bernard of Clairvox If there were no tribulation there would be no rest; if there were no winter there would be no summer. // Saint John Chyrsostom Half an hour’s meditation each day is essential, except when you are busy. Then a full hour is needed. // Saint Francis de Sales Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you. // Saint Augustine My strength returns to me with a cup of coffee and the Psalms. // Servant of God, Dorothy Day An Invitation to Rest Maybe this year, rather than sacrificing ourselves in the name of scheduling and to-do lists, we consider offering our undone lists, our unstructured time for the Lord to use as He sees fit? What do we stand to lose? Better yet, what might we stand to gain?   [bctt tweet="Saint Quotes When You Need Rest #BISblog //" via="no"]

You have a place in God's Heart. // Come to the manger and get your Advent devotional here! Love this from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

This morning, Father approached the ambo, offered the customary greeting and announcement, and began to read the assigned Gospel passage from Mark. As I stood listening, it struck me: “I was here this morning.” The passage chronicled Jesus’ call of Levi (Matthew) and subsequent dinner arrangements and proclamations, inferring that He is the physician sent to the sick of soul. This was not the first time in recent memory that this account had been presented to me; I had used it less than four hours earlier for my morning meditation. (I find it nice to read the Scriptures before hearing them at Mass.) I really appreciate passages with concrete images and encounters into which I can easily place myself. I find them much more conducive to meditation than lofty, philosophical discourses. But, that could just be me; everyone’s different. Placing Myself Before Him in the Word When I pray with Scripture, I follow a simple process. First, I call to mind Christ’s presence. This works especially well when praying before the tabernacle, but can be done anywhere. I hand over to Him any concerns which may be weighing on my heart. I open up to the Scripture passage I’ve chosen, and slowly read it. I picture the scene and reflect upon it. I put myself there and relate to Him. I speak to Him, and take time to try to listen to Him. After a time, I re-read part of the passage or move on a bit. I ponder, speak to Him, and listen some more. I close my prayer time with thanksgiving. Encountering Him In this passage, we were told of Levi’s concrete, life-changing encounter with our Lord: As He passed by, He saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed Him. // Mark 2:14 This morning, in my own time of quiet prayer, I, too, had encountered Jesus. Like Levi so long ago, I had met Him, present with me in the tabernacle of our chapel. Now I was meeting Him again as the Scriptures were read aloud. Soon, in the most extraordinary way, I would be meeting Him at Holy Communion! Meeting Him in the Morning It is beautiful to be able to meet Jesus several times a day, in the Scriptures, in “the Breaking of the Bread,” and in the people I encounter. I encourage you, dear sister in Christ, to take time in your busy day to meet Jesus in His Word. It can be an amazing experience, giving purpose and direction to your day. I don’t know about you, but I have a ways to go in being more conscious of His holy presence with me throughout the day. A step in the right direction, though, is meeting Him for a morning visit.   [bctt tweet="The Ways of the Word #BISblog //" via="no"]   Sr. Christina Neumann is a Franciscan Sister serving the elderly and disabled at St. Anne's Living Center in Grand Forks, ND. Along with office work, gardening, and duties in the chapel there, she also writes a weekly blog for her religious community.

Throughout my life as a Catholic Christian, I have had moments of abundant grace and peace when my life is well ordered, I am centered on Christ, and prayer comes easily. In those periods of spiritual joy, I am eager to pray with Scripture, frequent the Sacraments, and read edifying books. These times in my life are pure gifts from God. Over the years, however, I have learned that just like the ocean tide flows in and out, so does my spiritual life. It ebbs and flows. And a period of spiritual joy is likely to be followed by a spiritual funk. Suddenly, my prayer becomes monotonous, even unappealing, and slothful habits like reaching for my phone instead of my Bible sneak back into my life. Being in a spiritual funk is hard, frustrating, lonely, and relentless. As much as we want to avoid a season of spiritual dryness, the only way to get out of it is by going through it. Movements of the Heart In his Spiritual Exercises, Saint Ignatius of Loyola describes these spiritual movements as consolation and desolation. It is important to be aware of these movements of the heart. And in our awareness, we are invited to relate them to the Lord. Saint Ignatius offers an approach for understanding the different movements produced in the soul, and for recognizing which movements are good (consolation) and which ones are bad (desolation). This is commonly called the Discernment of Spirits. Consolation Consolation is a gift of the Holy Spirit who gives “courage and strength, consolations, tears, inspirations, and peace. This He does by making all easy, by removing all obstacles so that the soul goes forward in doing good” (Spiritual Exercises #315). In consolation, or spiritual joy, we experience a desire to do God’s will. We see our lives bearing fruit, because we are abiding in Christ. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. // John 15:4-5 When we are in consolation, we often experience graces, such as: courage a sense of community happiness humility (being dependent on God; rejecting self-sufficiency) being held by the Father hope   Desolation On the other hand, desolation is not a gift of the Holy Spirit. It is the work of the evil spirit who is inclined to “harass with anxiety, to afflict with sadness, to raise obstacles backed by fallacious reasonings that disturb the soul. Thus, he seeks to prevent the soul from advancing” (#315). When we are in desolation, or a spiritual funk, we can experience a “darkness of soul, turmoil of spirit, an inclination to what is low and earthly, restlessness rising from many disturbances and temptations … The soul is wholly slothful, tepid, sad, and separated, as were, from its Creator and Lord” (#317). During a spiritual funk, we can feel an imbalance in our souls that is manifested in a number of ways: disappointment discouragement doubt fear feelings of inadequacy isolation How to Get Out of A Spiritual Funk As mentioned above, the only way out of a spiritual funk or time of desolation is by going through it. And we do this with patience (with ourselves and God), trust, and surrender. Because, as Saint Ignatius says, “consolation will soon return” (#321). In the midst of desolation, Saint Ignatius advises us to preserve our established prayer habits. He even finds it helpful to intensify prayer, meditation, examination of life, and penance. “In time of desolation we should never make any change, but remain firm and constant in the resolution and decision which guided us the day before the desolation, or in the decision to which we adhered in the preceding consolation” (#318). Here are a few spiritual routines and uplifting activities to maintain during desolation: daily prayer daily lectio divina weekly Mass monthly Confession time with faith-filled friends service (intentionally focusing on others, rather than ourselves) Through these prayerful and edifying pursuits, we maintain a posture that permits the Lord to move us through desolation. Consider the following ways to accept, and even embrace, our desolation: Remember a time of consolation and the graces we received. Hold onto the Biblical promises of Christ. Trust in the Lord to move us through desolation. Accept that we cannot do this without Jesus. Rest in the Lord. The Blessing of a Spiritual Funk This may sound contradictory, but we can find blessing in our spiritual funk or our desolation. We can approach this time of suffering as an opportunity to grow closer to the Lord, lean into His promises, and cultivate deeper self-knowledge. Above all, during a spiritual funk, it is important to remember that just like the ebb and flow of the ocean tide, we move in and out of spiritual consolation and desolation many times throughout our lives. These movements of the heart are a natural part of the spiritual life. And when we invite God into each moment, we grow in confidence that “all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).   [bctt tweet="How to Get Out of a Spiritual Funk #BISblog //" via="no"] HIS WORD CHANGES LIVES God is speaking to you through His Word. In this personal study, you will learn to hear God's voice by reading slowly and praying deeply. BEGIN THE JOURNEY

When I was a kid in elementary school, I started watching a series called The Amazing Race. I loved analyzing every task and making decisions based on the clues as if I was running the race myself. I loved the element of mystery as competitors found out your next destination when you read your clue. I became even more mesmerized when I witnessed a father-daughter duo competing. As a child I thought, "One day, I am going to do the Amazing Race with my dad." A Dream Later Realized The Amazing Race. I wrote it on my childhood dream list. Then, life happened. I went to high school, moved to Australia and met the most handsome man on the planet, went to university, began a career, got married, and started a family. A beautiful husband, our beautiful girls, a great relationship with my parents and brothers, surrounded by a few good friends... I felt like this is what my childhood dreams were made of. One day, in God’s perfect timing, I was reminded that one of my childhood dreams hadn’t yet been fulfilled. The wild one, the one that I said outrageously without inhibition, before I was aware of such a thing as comfort zone or fear or limitations: competing on The Amazing Race with my Dad. I saw an advertisement encouraging people to apply for the upcoming season and I thought, why not? A Hope for Evangelization I was fearless about applying but only because God had planted seeds in my heart through the previous Australian season. In that season, a team of religious sisters from the Missionaries of God’s Love were competing. During their time on the race, they were so bold in their faith and even once stopped their race to pray for healing over the de-militarized zone in between the border of South and North Korea. They did this knowing that a few seconds can cost them the whole race! Another team I loved were a husband and wife duo who reminded me that our children are a source of inspiration to reach greater heights and in turn we inspire them to dream big with the Lord! So on the final day of submissions, I grabbed my camera and approached my dad. “We are going to film an audition video for the Amazing Race” I told him, and pressed record. Throughout the whole selection process, my dad was in disbelief. “I have better chances of winning the lottery than getting casted for the Amazing Race.” As we progressed along the selection process, my Dad still remained unconvinced. "There are so many people being interviewed for the season, let’s just go for the ride." Until one day, we were sitting in front of the executive producers of the show via Zoom. This was when we realized how close we actually were. Hope in the Wait I had been praying for my childhood dream to come true. But when a few weeks passed after the final interviews and we hadn’t heard from the casting team, my prayer changed to, “Lord, if this is not Your will, please remove the desire from my heart. I do not want to be heartbroken. Please give me the grace to accept that whatever is on the other side of this as part of your plan." The day after that prayer, I got a phone call from the casting team. "A team is no longer able to compete in the race. Are you and your dad still available?” It felt like the Lord was ensuring that my intentions were aligned with His. Not that He needed the clarity, but I did. And We're Off I packed my bags. I brought the essentials: my Rosary, the BIS journaling Bible, and my miraculous medal. When I left home, I said goodbye to my husband and children with an unshakeable sense of peace. This is how I knew that the journey we were about to embark on was God’s plan for my life. This sense of peace was a reassurance that God had His hand over this very season. This peace—the peace that I often misplace as I go about my daily life—was so profound that it could only be pointed to the Lord and His peace that surpasses all understanding. In our first leg of the race, Dad and I were in danger of elimination. Serving a penalty on the mat isn’t usually positive in The Amazing Race context but our Faith teaches us to wait not in desperation but in hope. Trusting that whether we went home that day or got to keep racing, God has a plan on the other side of it. Thankfully our journey wasn’t finished yet. Racing for Opportunities Throughout the race, we prayed for opportunities to shine God’s light, to have opportunities to be counter-cultural in a competition by helping others, and for the grace to hold on to our virtues especially when the competition got tough. Dad and I loved praying the Litany of Trust, together and sometimes individually. Looking back now, I can truly say that our strongest days racing were the ones we began holding hands in prayer and ended with thanksgiving to the Lord. As the race progressed and competition got tougher, it became difficult to get further when our intention was to remain true to our virtues and abiding by the race rules. One sunny day on a beach in beautiful Queensland Australia, we were the last team to check in and we were eliminated from the race. It was bittersweet as I realized that my childhood dream came to an end but my grown up dream of a family with my husband is waiting for me to come home. A Final Consolation As a reassurance from God that this season of my life and the way the race unfolded was a part of His plan, the doors of our final hotel opened to face beautiful doors of a Catholic cathedral. We were in the state of Queensland, very far from our home state of Victoria and also far away from the restrictions and church lockdown that was brought by the pandemic. The day before I went home to my family and the lockdown that awaited in my home state, I was able to meet Jesus in Reconciliation and Eucharist in person. My dad and I received Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time in six months, and that may have been just the most extravagant consolation for my then-wounded heart. What followed were a few long months of grieving the end of our race journey and processing the shift in my life. Competing in the race was the final fulfillment of all my childhood dreams. Finishing my time on the race it was like fully closing the childhood chapters in my book of life and now with thanksgiving, I get to fully step into what the Lord has planned for me in adulthood. Nothing is Too Marvelous for the Lord The Lord is so extravagant. His plans for us are so great and nothing is too marvelous for Him! He remembers the details—even childhood dreams that we forget as adults. What are your childhood dreams? Bring them to the Lord once again today!   [bctt tweet="The Amazing Race + God's Amazing Grace #BISblog //" via="no"]   Jobelle Collier and her husband, Alan, are raising two girls in country Victoria, Australia. Together, they seek to grow in God's call to a life lived to the full. In 2020, Jobelle got to live out her childhood dream of competing in the Amazing Race with her dad.

Every year around around this time, I long to slow down, create space, quiet my heart, and find rest. Perhaps I am weary from the toll of this chaotic world. Perhaps I need to step back from the whirlwind of everyday life and realign my priorities. Perhaps my soul is ready to once again enter into the season of Advent—the season of prayer and penance, waiting and watching for the coming of Jesus. Advent is the perfect liturgical season for my longing. I wait for the light and warmth of Christ to illuminate the darkness of the world, which can weigh so heavily on my heart. For just as the dawn comes after the long, dark hours of night, Jesus comes to bring light and love, to dwell among us. By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. // Luke 1:78-79 Perhaps you experience this longing, too? Advent Invites Us In Advent ushers in a new liturgical year, a new opportunity to return to the Lord. Advent invites us to encounter Christ in the simple manger in Bethlehem. It encourages us to recreate that manger scene in our own hearts, putting Christ at the center of our lives once again. But a Christ-centered Advent does not magically happen. Nor does slowing down and creating space. In order to truly experience the quiet, peaceful Advent that our hearts desire, we must be intentional. We must become still enough to set our gaze on the horizon and to wait and watch for the coming of Jesus. We need to remove anything that hinders our ability to remain in the quiet, especially as the holiday hype tempts us away from the real reason for the season.   6 Ways to Prepare for a Quiet Advent Now How do we experience Advent like we truly want to this year? Below are six ways to prepare for a quiet Advent season starting now: 1. Center on Christ The most necessary aspect of the Advent season is prayer. How do we want to pray this Advent? How do we want to grow in our worship of the newborn King? Do we want to: Use lectio divina to pray with the daily Gospel? Meditate more deeply on the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary? Find one or two days during the week to attend Mass? Additionally, Found: An Advent Devotional is a beautiful way to help focus our prayer this season, as it is purely fixed on the coming of Jesus in the manger. Each week is focused on different groups that were invited to the manger in Bethlehem, and it reminds us that we are invited, too. 2. Stay Rooted in Tradition There are many rich liturgical traditions throughout the Advent season. One temptation can be to think we have to do them all. This can lead to overwhelm or busyness, and can distract us from our real desire for quiet and peace. May I suggest a simple plan? Set up an Advent Wreath to gather around for prayer. Pick two or three favorite feast days to celebrate. Consider only what is most meaningful to you personally or as a family. 3. Tackle To-Dos Often, we do not begin our Christmas to-dos until the Advent season. This creates unnecessary tension in our hearts, because our desire for quiet is confronted with a busy to-do list that seems impossible to complete in such a short amount of time. This year, let’s try something new. From now until the first Sunday of Advent, let’s work on accomplishing some (if not most) of our Christmas to-dos: Order Christmas cards Update address list Buy stamps and wrapping paper Make and freeze cookie dough Finish Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving 4. Steward the Schedule During Advent, there are many events vying for our attention: choir concerts, pageants, ugly sweater parties, and family obligations. If we say yes to it all, our schedule will not correspond with our heart’s desire for peace and quiet this Advent. So let’s consider a few helpful reminders when stewarding our Advent schedule: We don’t have to do it all. Focus on what is necessary; not what feels impossible. Do what will support our decision to have a quiet, prayerful Advent. Create space for wonder, awe, coziness, and togetherness. 5. Simplify Decor If we desire for all to be calm in our souls and in our schedules this Advent, we need that same quiet, restful, prayerful theme to be reflected in our living spaces. So, keep Christmas decor simple this year. Prominently display a Nativity scene. Wait to decorate the Christmas tree until Gaudete Sunday. Avoid too many Christmas tchotchkes, which can clutter our spaces, minds, and hearts. Incorporate seasonal touches (that can remain throughout winter) such as: Cozy blankets and throw pillows Quiet instrumental or sacred music Candles Cinnamon, orange, and clove scents 6. Practice Penance The penitential aspect of Advent has been somewhat forgotten, but a few liturgical customs remain that hint at the anticipatory penitence of Advent. For one, the color violet symbolizes penance and preparation. In addition, the Gloria is not sung at Mass during Advent. As in Lent, we consider Advent a season of preparation before a great feast, and this may include fasting. As we create a quiet Advent, incorporating some penance into the season supports the quiet simplicity we desire. Here are a few ways to embrace the penitential this Advent: Go to Confession once or twice before Christmas. Fast from social media. Abstain from Christmas cookies, peppermint mochas, and other treats. Look into abiding by the Ember Days of Advent. Be Present to the Advent Moment As we look ahead to Advent, let us acknowledge our longing to slow down, create space, quiet the heart, and find rest in Christ. Let us lean into Jesus’ invitation to pray and prepare, to wait and watch. Together, let’s prepare now for a quiet Advent so we can truly enter into the season of joyful anticipation for Christ’s coming this Christmas.   [bctt tweet="6 Ways to Prepare a Quiet Advent NOW #BISblog // " via="no"] HIS WORD CHANGES LIVES God is speaking to you through His Word. In this personal study, you will learn to hear God's voice by reading slowly and praying deeply. BEGIN THE JOURNEY

For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood. // Mark 12:44 Love this from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

Halloween and All Saints' Day are behind us. Thanksgiving and Advent are imminent. And Christmas and New Year’s Eve are only a few weeks behind. While this time of year is certainly festive with songs promoting peace and joy ringing through the airwaves, it is also a time when it is easy to be swept up in busy-ness, tasks, and even family drama. It can become a time that is anything but peaceful. To help prepare myself to make it through this incredible season with love and virtue ruling in my heart, I turn the Saints and their quotes about peace to refer back to when I find myself losing it. False Impressions of Peace There exists an incredibly common misunderstanding about peace. Too often we fall for the idea that in order to find peace and maintain it, we have to reach a certain goal or place in our lives. It can be as simple as “when grad school ends,” “when summer is over and the kids are back in school,” or “as soon as I get this promotion.” We have all bought into the lie that experiencing peace is opposed to facing adversity. But as Christians, that is actually the exact opposite of what Christ taught—in fact, He assures us that we will always have tribulation (see John 16:33)! Yet, in that same verse, our Shepherd says, “I have said this to you, that in me you may have peace.” Jesus came so that we would have His peace in the midst of our hardships; peace that the world cannot give (see John 14:27). Saint Quotes About Peace The Saints are saints because they were able to find this peace. No matter what hardship they faced, they remained masters of their inner selves ... undisturbed and unprovoked. This does not mean they were not sometimes angry, heartbroken, or down-trodden. It means that they chose to take all those things, surrender them to God, and exchange them for His peace. They understood the truth that peace is not some destination to be reached, but instead, a manner of traveling through life. Christ came to give us this peace, and the Saints are full of advice in how to “find” it. On Ways to Achieve Peace “The tree that is beside running water is fresher and gives more fruit.” // Saint Teresa of Avila This running water is the living water of Jesus. Spend intentional time in prayer—even just for a few dedicated minutes—will bring more peace to your day. “Come to Christ where all is love.” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Many times when we are lacking peace, it is because we ourselves have not experienced true love from people that day. We are made to be loved! "Peace is not just the absence of war. Like a cathedral, peace must be constructed patiently and with unshakable faith.” // Pope Saint John Paul II Do not rush the process of peace, or condemn yourself for not being perfect at it right away! That will bring about the opposite of peace! “Let us go forward in peace, our eyes upon heaven, the only one goal of our labors.” // Saint Therese of Lisieux In other words, if we can remember what is really important and focus on the reward of Heaven, we will find greater peace in that situation. So maybe learning more about Heaven and what Heaven will be like would be helpful! “Our souls may lose their peace and even disturb other people’s, if we are always criticizing trivial actions—which are often not real defects at all, but we construed them wrongly through our ignorance of their motives.” // Saint Teresa of Avila Essentially, we become upset when we make assumptions about other people and why they are doing what they are doing. If we do not assume, and refuse to judge their motives, and are content with the fact that we do not need to know, we will have more inner peace in the day-to-day. “Go to the tabernacle in spirit when you are not able to do so physically!” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Easy enough and super effective! “If you want to make peace, you don’t talk to your friends. You talk to your enemies.” // Saint Teresa of Calcutta Even if we are not gossiping when speaking to our friends, it often does very little to improve a situation other than to bring about some fleeting momentary relief. If we talk with our enemy—not even necessarily in a hashing-it-out sort of way—in an authentic, open way in which we are honestly attempting to love them, over time our opinions about our “enemy” can change. “Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and in a calm spirit. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.” // Saint Francis de Sales Stop the rush! And maybe make time to read the Introduction to the Devout Life by this great spiritual master. “Don’t be so engrossed in the activities of Martha that you forget the silence and surrender of Mary. May the Virgin who reconciles both duties so well be your model and inspiration.” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina More simple advice. Fly to Mary for all your needs! “Opting for peace does not mean a passive acquiescence to evil or compromise of principle. It demands an active struggle against hatred, oppression and disunity, but not by using methods of violence. Building peace requires creative and courageous action.” // Pope Saint John Paul II It is good to be disturbed by injustice, but violence (even aggressiveness or virtue signaling on social media) is never going to bring us peace. Rather, we go to the Creator in prayer and seek a creative and courageous solution. “You pay God a compliment by asking great things of him.” // Saint Teresa of Avila Ask Him for the peace the world cannot give, especially in the midst of your greatest difficulties! “Pray, Hope, and don’t worry. Worry is useless.” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Did you know that you can reject worry? When you feel it creeping in, say in your heart, mind, or even audibly, “I reject you, spirit of worry, in the Name of Jesus. Holy Spirit, fill me with all good things.” “If certain thoughts bother you, it is the devil who causes you to worry, and not God….” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina Once again, verbal rejection in the moment is powerful! When We Need Comfort, Strength, + Encouragement “Am I not here, I, who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not the source of your joy? Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, in the crossing of my arms? Do you need anything more? Let nothing else worry you, disturb you.” // Our Lady of Guadalupe A quote that always brings me reassurance. I imagine myself in Our Lady’s arms and wrapped within her cloak. "Even if the world were to capsize, if everything were to become dark, hazy, tumultuous, God would still be with us.” // Saint Pio of Pietrelcina The better understanding we can gain of God’s limitless love and power and the more we increase our trust in Him, the more comforting the idea of God “always being there” becomes. “May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.” // Saint Teresa of Avila A prayer for each of us, from the great Doctor of the Church, who herself experienced the dark night of the soul. “The everlasting God has in His wisdom foreseen from eternity the cross that He now presents to you as a gift from His inmost heart. This cross He now sends you He has considered with His all-knowing eyes, understood with His divine mind, tested with His wise justice, warmed with loving arms and weighed with His own hands to see that it be not one inch too large and not one ounce too heavy for you. He has blessed it with His holy Name, anointed it with His consolation, taken one last glance at you and your courage, and then sent it to you from heaven, a special greeting from God to you, an alms of the all-merciful love of God.” // Saint Frances de Sales This visualization exercise from Saint Frances is one that almost always brings me to tears when I meditate upon Jesus doing so with my crosses! The Effect of Our Peace on the World Striving for authentic peace is a mark of a true Christian seeking holiness, as ultimately it is a testament to our belief in the Gospel: that Christ can and has conquered anything and everything! And while securing this peace is certainly beneficial for our own lives and homes, it can have a wider effect than we may ever realize… “Acquire interior peace and a multitude will find salvation through you.” // Saint Seraphim of Sarov A multitude! What are your favorite Saint quotes about peace?!   [bctt tweet="Saint Quotes for When You Need Peace #BISblog //" via="no"]

As a 20-something unmarried gal, I pretty much have full reign over my daily schedule including how and when I pray. This state of life brought about a sweet season of spontaneity with the Lord, but did not inspire a lot of consistency on my part. I found myself falling asleep while trying to pray at night, or only being able to stop by the chapel for five minutes and calling that encounter sufficient for the day. Feeling the gentle invitation to go deeper and make connecting with Him a daily priority, I felt called to set aside time for daily prayer in the morning. The Bible, especially the Psalms, point towards morning prayer in particularly poignant ways: For to you I will pray Lord; in the morning you will hear my voice; in the morning I will plead before you and wait. // Psalm 5:3-4 My alarm goes off at 5:30 a.m. on weekdays. As a non-morning person, this comes much too early for my liking most of the time. I began attempting my new morning routine in earnest, but was immediately confronted by my own weaknesses. I hit the snooze button one too many times and even found myself dozing when trying to pray. Using Your 5 Senses in Morning Prayer As Catholics, we are blessed to have numerous examples of prayer and sacrament that engage our physical senses to draw us to God. For me, the key to being successful (i.e. not falling back to sleep and really connecting with the Lord in the mornings) came from creating habits in my morning prayer that engage all five of my senses. Prayer Feels Like One of the biggest game changers when it came to making time for daily prayer was setting aside a place. My place is an arm chair in the corner of my bedroom. It’s comfy, large enough to curl up, and has a big basket of blankets right beside it. For me, prayer feels like sitting down in my chair and wrapping up in a blanket. I’m instantly comfortable, relaxed, and ready to be with the Lord. Even if you don’t have a space specifically designed for prayer in your home, make sure you get out of bed and move to a different part of the house. Whether it’s the couch or kitchen table, physically moving yourself to a new location ensures you are more alert. Head to the same place each morning and eventually your brain will connect the habit, recognizing that spot as the place you pray. Prayer Sounds Like When engaging in mental prayer, I definitely recognize the importance of silence. It is important to give the Lord room to speak in our hearts. However, first thing in the morning, it is easy to let our minds drift or doze, especially if we're praying silently. Whenever I find myself getting off track, I start talking to Him audibly. This forces me to focus on what I am trying to relate to Him and ensures I’m really having a conversation with the Lord (as opposed to just thinking about my problems). Prayer Tastes Like Every morning before I begin in prayer, I make a brief pit stop in the kitchen to visit my Keurig. I’m not a coffee gal, but as an avid tea drinker, starting the day off with a London Fog (a heavenly combo of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup) always puts me in a good mood. I like to make my drink before I settle into to prayer for two reasons: The time it takes to make it ensures I’m even slightly more awake then I normally would be if I went straight into prayer. Caffeine. Sipping throughout prayer helps me to wake up and focus more clearly, sooner than if I was just rubbing sleep out of my eyes. There’s just something sweet about chatting with the Lord over a warm beverage like you would any friend. Consider having your morning tea (or coffee) with Jesus. Prayer Looks Like When my mind wanders in mental prayer, sometimes it is just a flitting distraction that comes and goes, and sometimes it is enough to get me really off course. When this happens, it can be helpful to have visual cues in your line of sight that can help direct your attention back to the Lord. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, it can be as simple as a prayer card you keep in your journal or a crucifix in your room. Having something to look at when you’re distracted is a gentle reminder to get back to what you’re there for: connecting with the Lord. Prayer Smells Like One of the most powerful senses we have as humans is our smell. Whether it is the smell of freshly cut grass that brings us back to summer nights or chocolate chip cookies that make us feel at home, smell can transport us instantly. For me, prayer smells like a very specific scented candle. I light the same candle each morning when I go to pray. It is a candle I only use when I'm praying, and I’m careful not to light it at any other point in the day. It is just another way to ensure there is a physical cue that reminds me to enter in. This can be any scent you want (I personally love the smell of incense and my prayer candle smells just like it!) And as an added bonus, the warm glow of my prayer candle reminds me of the candle that burns next to each tabernacle. Outside the tabernacle it signals to us the Lord’s presence within, and I love looking at my candle in the morning and being reminded of the Lord’s presence with me there. How Do You Engage Your Senses in Prayer? Prayer may feel, sound, taste, look or smell different for your personal morning routine, but hopefully by engaging your senses in new ways you will be able to connect more deeply with the One who can’t wait to converse with you.   [bctt tweet="Morning Prayer + Our 5 Senses #BISblog //" via="no"]   Shelby Hennen is a young professional who hails from the Midwestern metropolis of Kansas City, MO. She loves a good book, a good chat with a friend, and a good taco joint.

We have our favorite sins: those sins we find ourselves confessing over and over again. Those sins that always seem to make an appearance, despite our greatest efforts at overcoming them. We have those sins which we naturally tend toward, and consequently, are the sins which we strive the most to overcome. “I’m gonna read a book about purity so I can overcome my sins of lust.” “I’m gonna pray the Litany of Humility everyday to overcome my sins of pride.” “I’m gonna fast from all condiments, add ons, and all drinks except soda so I can overcome my sins of gluttony.” “I’m gonna tithe 15% instead of 10% so I can overcome my sins of greed.” “I’m gonna pray a rosary everyday for the people who irritate me so I can overcome my sins of impatience and frustration.” We’ve all been there. Trying to Muscle Our Way to Holiness While these efforts are noble, we can think we are experts at thinking of ways to muscle our path to virtue. “If only I do _______ then I can make myself holy. If only I do _______ then I can become the kind of person I am meant to be. If I only work hard enough, I can achieve perfection. And then I wind up again in the confessional, even more frustrated than before. We Are Not Alone We are fallen individuals. We easily fall prey to temptation. Even the strongest of us is not able to stand in the face of sin and always turn our back. Like so many aspects of our human lives, we try to go at it alone, and yet we cannot do it alone. The good news is: we aren’t alone. God desires to give us the graces we need in order to overcome sin. You want to become a better person and avoid sin more in your life? Great. The secret is to stop striving so hard and rather surrender it to God. Pray for God’s grace to present in your areas of weakness. Practice remembering His presence when you find yourself in a near occasion of sin. Ask for His assistance when you feel yourself starting to fall. Ask for Help Maybe it’s a humility problem, but as humans, we want to do it all ourselves. It is so hard for us to ask for help. But that’s exactly what the Lord wants to hear. He doesn’t expect you to be able to do it alone! He just wants you to surrender it to Him to help. You are imperfect, and your greatest efforts can’t change that. But we do have a perfect God, who is readily available to give you the grace to transform you into Himself. Our only task is to keep moving forward in steady surrender. Stop striving and start surrendering.   [bctt tweet="Stop Striving and Start Surrendering #BISblog //" via="no"]   Gracie Tillman lives in Colorado as a missionary. She is passionate about hiking, music, quality time with friends and family, and all things involving pasta.

Now that November has arrived, our attention turns to the approaching holidays. We began to make lists and plans, bake treats and ideas for gatherings, and renew our commitment to preparation and prayer. Even before December arrives, Advent begins, and you might be considering how you want to pray through this liturgical season this year. For me, Advent is such a special spiritual time that I guard my prayer time fiercely. There are so many beautiful Advent traditions and prayers. I'm drawn toward many of them; however, I know that I cannot complete them all. So I have to pray about what the Lord is asking of me and I must decide how I am going to spend my prayer time as we await the coming of the Messiah. Maybe you're the same. Questions You May Have about And Hay Became Holy While I would highly suggest incorporating this year's devotional from Blessed is She, And Hay Become Holy, into your Advent prayer rhythm, I understand that you may have questions or hesitancies before committing. There's plenty of space for questions so I thought I could answer some here (and I'd love if you asked some in the comments, too!). Is this devotional just for young moms? No. Just like our daily devotionals, the Advent devotional is written with all Catholic women in mind. In it, you will find prayers and stories that speak to women across generations, cultures, vocations, and lived experiences. It is our deep desire to give you a devotional that speaks to your heart, no matter who you are or where you are at in life. How can I know if I'll resonate with the theme? Perhaps you're wondering if the theme of the Advent devotional will speak to you in this season. What if it's a topic that misses the mark for you right now? Great news: the theme of And Hay Became Holy is the manger scene. In terms of preparation for Christmas, there's not a much more specific focus one could have. Throughout Advent, we will spend time with various characters surrounding the manger scene and what they teach us about coming to worship the Newborn King. This theme is for you. Is it worth the money? Cost is, of course, always a factor, and perhaps more than ever this year. We think the investment in your own spiritual formation during Advent will pay dividends as it bears fruit in your life. However, if the cost is prohibitive, please know that we offer a digital download of the devotional. I never finish these kinds of things. What if this is no different? Are you someone who starts a task or practice with vigor only to wane after a few days or weeks? Maybe you have tried an Advent devotional before and you can never seem to keep up or finish. We get it, and we wanted to give you the freedom to fit this in the context of your life circumstances. The devotional gives you lots of space to "catch up" if you miss a few days without feeling overwhelmed. I always miss a day or three during Advent, but the way the BIS Advent devotionals are structured doesn't leave me feeling discouraged or behind. Rather, I am able to jump right back in and still find a fruitful rhythm of prayer. I'm already using a devotional from someone else. Should I consider yours? There are so many beautiful resources for Advent available! What a gift. We encourage you to first ask the Lord if there is a specific direction in which He is calling you. In And Hay Became Holy, you will receive a variety of prompts that will draw your heart toward God. We will pray with Scripture, meditate on prayerfully-curated questions, practice visio divina (prayer with sacred art), and receive guidance from the tradition of the Church for our contemplation. We believe that this devotional will engage our senses, our minds, and our hearts. We would love to pray through Advent with you. What questions do you have about And Hay Became Holy? Let us know below!   [bctt tweet="You're Thinking About Getting the BIS Advent Devotional, But... #BISblog //" via="no"]

You shall love your neighbor as yourself. // Mark 12:31 Love this from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper