No one reaches the kingdom of Heaven except through humility. -St. Augustine   When I think of the holiest people I know, “humble” is one of the first words I’d use to describe them. As you befriend the Saints and learn about the people they were and the lives they led, I think we’d all agree that a unifying characteristic in saintliness is humility. And of course, throughout the Bible, humility is exalted as a virtue to strive for, such as in Ephesians 4:2: “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Maybe it’s the fact that humility is so important on our path to holiness that it’s such a difficult virtue to cultivate. At least that’s been my experience. I often find myself praying to be more humble...and if I’m honest, what I really want is to just magically wake up one day a super humble person, rather than do the hard, soul-scrubbing work of getting there. I was in Confession about a year ago and was admitting my ongoing struggle with pride, vanity, and envy. I relayed how it feels like I never make any headway in any of those areas, despite praying about them often. The priest suggested I look up a prayer called the Litany of Humility and commit to praying it regularly. That suggestion forever impacted my walk with God. The Litany of Humility This prayer was composed by Rafael Cardinal Merry de Val, the Secretary of State for Pope Saint Pius X in 1863. It is a beautiful prayer that goes so much deeper than the simple, “Dear Jesus, please help me to be more humble,” that was my default at the time. At first glance, it is a hard prayer to pray. It hits right at the heart of so many of my insecurities that keep me tethered to pride, vanity, and often envy. The first few times I prayed through the Litany, I felt really confused and frustrated. In just the third line, you’re praying that Jesus delivers you from a desire of being loved! Aren’t we supposed to desire love?! The more I prayed the Litany, however, the more I came to understand the whole point of it. I think of another St. Augustine quote: “Our hearts are restless until they rest in You.” When we look for love, validation, admiration, honor, praise, and accolades from man and when we place our worth and value in those, we’re settling for a less-than existence than what we were created for. Because we were lovingly created by the God of the universe, nothing will satisfy our hearts except true communion with Him. To me, this is what the Litany of Humility is all about. It hits on so many areas that keep us tethered to the opinion of man which hinder us from full communion with God.     Praying the Litany of Humility If you, too, desire to grow in the virtue of humility (hello, probably everyone), here are three tips to incorporating this prayer into your regular routine! 1. Make it consistent. This is my top tip. Praying this Litany every single day has made the biggest impact on my walk with Jesus. Saying the words day-in and day-out has had a profound impact. I recommend a tool I like to call “stacking the habits” to get this done and make it consistent. The idea is simply to “stack” this prayer with something else you’re already doing on a regular basis. For instance, play an audio version of the prayer every morning as you brush your teeth. Or keep it written out in the Notes app and pray it out loud as you wait for your coffee to brew. Think through your day and find something you’re already doing consistently every single day, and add this prayer alongside a habit that already exists! 2. Pray throughout the day. To truly enter deeply into this prayer, consider praying it throughout the day, focusing on a couple lines each hour. There are 24 lines in the prayer, so you could focus on three lines per hour over an eight hour day! I like to pray the lines a few times throughout the hour, really absorbing and digesting the meaning of the words. 3. Pray throughout the month. This is another favorite way to pray this beautiful Litany! Focus on one line per day for about a month. You can meditate on Bible verses that coincide with the line, or ask God to show you specific areas in your life where you need to grow based around that line. For example, for the line that reads, “from the fear of being despised,” you might meditate on John 15:18-19: If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.   Writing Your Own Litany of Humility Another powerful way to pray this Litany is to pen your own with the original as your guide, or simply add on a few extra lines for areas you particularly struggle with. There is no rule against writing your own prayers; in fact, this can be a very profound way to take your prayer to a deeper level. Considering jotting down your own “litany of humility” in your journal or Notes app, making it personal to your own journey and struggles! Here’s an excerpt from one I wrote for myself: From the desire to “grow my following” ... deliver me, Jesus. From the fear of being taken for granted ... deliver me, Jesus. From the fear of having no time for myself … deliver me, Jesus. From the fear of what motherhood demands … deliver me, Jesus. From the fear of being irrelevant … deliver me, Jesus.   The Purpose of the Litany of Humility The point of this Litany, whether you pray the original or write your own, is to be delivered of our own selfish desires, reliance on self, distorted sense of self-importance, and fear of sacrificing our own comfort for the sake of another. To be delivered of such vices is to be on our way to living in the world but not “of” it. To be delivered of such vices is a crucial step on our journey of sanctification. Do you pray the Litany of Humility? Have a favorite quote from the Saints on the virtue of humility? Share in the comments and let’s all grow in this virtue together! [bctt tweet="How to Pray the Litany of Humility #BISblog //" via="no"] LITURGICAL PLANNERS Our Liturgical Planners are based on the Litany of Humility. Enter into prayer every day alongside this beautiful Litany. Order your days in His peace. GET YOUR PLANNER

Thus were the paths of those on earth made straight, and people learned what pleases you, and were saved by Wisdom. // Wisdom 9:18 Download these beautiful free wallpapers from Abigail Katherine Rose from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Remember, Members, you get this 8x10 digital download for free! Head to the shop for your download. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

One of the most blatant, destructive, and obvious evils attacking relationships today is pornography. In the United States alone, over 40 million people are sexually involved with the internet, meaning their capability to purely love in dating relationships and marriages is extremely damaged or seemingly beyond repair. In a world where pornography is ridiculously accessible, many of us striving to live virtuous lives have fallen. What starts as an accidental click on the computer when you’re 10 years old turns into a battle for your life and heart. And the hearts of people you’re in relationship with. Struggling with pornography in dating relationships can be extremely painful, messy, and destructive, whether it’s you or your significant other. While there’s never a formula for dealing with this in relationships, it’s necessary for both of you to be honest with yourselves and each other. As a woman who has personally struggled with this issue, mentors women through pornography addiction in themselves and their relationships, and has encountered porn addiction in her own dating world, I can testify that this issue hurts. It hurts you, it hurts anyone you’re dating, and above all, it hurts the Father who created your heart with so much more in mind. Ways to Combat Pornography Addiction So what’s a person who is trying to be faithful and virtuous to do with pornography in a dating relationship? Merely based on what I’ve seen in my ministry and my own life, the two absolutely crucial elements to handling pornography addiction in relationships are: honesty active fighting Honesty If you’re struggling, you’ve got to be up front about it. Unfortunately, there’s no set time in a relationship where you’re required to bring this up, so it’s left to your own discernment when you tell. However, I don't think it's ever too early to be honest. If this is a very present struggle, especially, the person you're dating needs to know so it can be evaluated whether or not dating is the best thing for both of you right now. Hiding the addiction or denying it are both unacceptable and will only make it more hurtful in the long run. However painful, terrifying, and embarrassing it can be to admit this issue to someone you’re dating, I can promise you your honesty is beyond worth it. Not only will your significant other be grateful, but you never know the fruits that can come from this conversation. The same goes for if your struggle is in the past. The reactions I’ve gotten from the men I’ve told about my past have all been extremely uplifting and healing. Don’t automatically assume that it’s going to go badly. If You're on the Receiving End... If you’re on the receiving end of this honesty, I want to let you know that you have permission to be hurt. It doesn’t mean the person telling you is terrible or dirty. It means the issue they’re telling you about is exactly what it is—destructive and distorted. You can be hurt by that without being ashamed of the person you care about. Responding in this conversation with forgiveness and compassion is priceless. Offer your hurt to Jesus, because He’s right there with you. Only He can provide the love you need to see through this. Active Fighting I cannot stress enough that there is a massive difference between someone who is being complacent in their addiction and someone who is bravely and actively fighting against it. You need to ask yourself, or your significant other, if real steps are being taken in the journey towards recovery. Accountability Accountability is a must. It’s very rare for significant others to be successful accountability partners while also deepening their dating relationship. Make sure you or the person you're dating has a honest, reliable, healthy accountability relationship with someone of the same gender. It’s rare that this is impossible to find. Filters One of the simplest aids in overcoming porn addiction (but also one of the hardest to actually motivate yourself or someone else to do) is getting rid of or seriously filtering the device that keeps you addicted. There is nothing ridiculous about getting filters and blocks placed on your computer or phone, or getting replacing the device temporarily with something without access. These are steps that show that you, or your significant other, is serious about overcoming this. Some journeys don’t require extreme measures, but I know a lot of people in recovery who would’ve gotten there sooner if the extreme measures had been taken. Self-Mastery Practices that help with gaining mastery over the body, like exercise and fasting, are also extremely helpful in overcoming porn addiction. Do you and your significant other both have a lifestyle that encourages a healthy body, therefore a healthy mind? This may seem like a superficial requirement, but it’s not about looking good. It’s about telling your body when it does and does not have permission to act on its urges. Prayer, Prayer, and More Prayer The most important thing in pursuing recovery is an active prayer life. Jesus desires our freedom more than we could ever comprehend, and He supplies the grace to chase it. Don’t focus your prayer on the issue of pornography—whether it’s you struggling, your significant other, or both of you. Rather, focus prayer on the Lord’s love and how to reflect that love more deeply. Pray for purity, bravery, perseverance, and hope. Receive His forgiveness in the confessional. Worship Him in Mass. The most valuable thing I learned through my own journey is that you can have every physical and mental aid in place to help you fight pornography. But none will work as they should without hope. Pornography Addiction is a Major Issue in a Dating Relationship Don’t be afraid to do what it takes to break this chain. And don’t be afraid to ask your significant other if they’re willing to do the same. If complacency is a problem in your relationship right now, don’t be afraid to give an ultimatum. You deserve to be in relationship with someone who refuses to give into addiction, who gets up and fights harder when they fall. For God first, for themselves, and for you. And someone deserves that exact same fight in you. No matter one's past with pornography, it’s never too late to give this battle all you’ve got. You Can Have a Happy, Healthy Relationship I absolutely have seen relationships bring out true and beautiful progress towards freedom. The common ingredient was always a deep, vulnerable honesty and a genuine commitment to fighting from all angles. Don’t be afraid to enter into this journey together if these elements are in place, and Jesus is calling. On the flip side, don’t be afraid to lovingly walk away if that commitment to freedom isn’t there yet. The Lord has a lot of experience in bringing new life out of something ending. Walking away from someone you care about is painful, but you cannot be the chief reason they fight. You can’t make someone fight who isn’t ready to yet, and you can’t make someone stick around while you remain complacent. Love means willing the good of the other, so genuinely pray about and discern if staying in the relationship or leaving will be most beneficial to both of you. Pornography can absolutely be a break-up worthy issue, but also isn’t always. Remember—however hard it can be to accept—that the final goal is not staying together no matter what, it’s doing God’s will and seeking the fullest life in Him. Whether that means staying together or leaving, the grace will be supplied. There is Hope! Finally, I promise you, there is hope for recovery. I know how much pain you might be in. But freedom is possible, for both of you, whether together or apart. As C.S. Lewis says in The Great Divorce: Lust is a poor, weak, whimpering, whispering thing compared with that richness and energy of desire which will arise when lust has been killed.   Your fullest heart is waiting in the hands of the One who is true Love. Don’t be afraid to do what it takes to receive it. [bctt tweet="Dating and Pornography Addiction #BISblog //" via="no"] Rachael Gieger is a Colorado native residing in Florida as she works towards her masters degree in theology at Ave Maria University. She is passionate about women’s ministry—especially to those struggling with sexual addiction—as well as llamas, dance parties, and anything by written by C.S. Lewis.

I live in Southern California which means I deal with traffic all the time. To make matters even more fun, I work in Los Angeles, but live in Orange County, so I’m typically on the freeway at least two hours a day. Sometimes longer. It doesn’t matter if I take the 110, the 405, the 605, the 5 or the 105. I will face traffic. And yes, we say “the” before every highway, thank you very much! Ways to Pray While Carpooling or Commuting Therefore, I have had to get pretty creative with my daily commute in order to make the most of it and to incorporate some prayer time. So, if you have a long commute or even a short one, here are some fun ways to make your commute intentional. SiriusXM Catholic Channel My new car came with Sirius radio for free and now I’m hooked. I think if my commute were nonexistent, I would let it go. But when you have a long drive, it is nice to listen to something that challenges your mind as you pray for no traffic. via GIPHY It’s also great to have radio hosts who talk about Catholic issues, theology, and content. Whether you turn on the Jen Fulweiler Show, Conversations with Cardinal Dolan, The Catholic Guy with Lino Rulli, or the Busted Halo Show, you will always hear interviews that make you think about the Catholic Faith in our world today. You'll hear interviews with intelligent, funny, and authentic sisters and brothers who are living their Faith in the world today. Audible Books There are so many fabulous Catholic and Christian books to read, but when you don’t have time to sit down with a book in hand, Audible Books are a gift from St. Frances de Sales (patron Saint of authors). Many of your favorite Catholic authors have recorded audio versions or their writings. Personally, I find theological audible books to be difficult to comprehend while facing Los Angeles traffic, but many inspirational books are fantastic in this format. via GIPHY This also works for books like 33 Days to Morning Glory or Advent and Lent devotionals. Sometimes carving in the time to read these books can be difficult but audio versions are a new inspiration as you grow in relationship with Christ. Music, Music, and More Music Singing praise and worship music is by far one of my favorite things to do in my car. However, when there is traffic, I don’t typically listen to worship music. Why, you ask? Because I tend to speed up when I love a song and raise one hands off the steering wheel in praise. When you are listening to a queen like Stephanie Grettzinger at full volume and singing along, raising your hands might not be safe. But it's necessary. It doesn’t have to be just praise and worship music. It can be classical music that inspires you to reflect on the Word you read in the morning. It could be chant (be careful with this style when your sleepy). It could even be Gospel music, or whatever allows you to shout praises to God on high. The point is, you will look strange and people will point. But God sees and hears your praise to Him and will bless you because of your praise. via GIPHY Audible Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, or Stations of the Cross Every day as I drive home from work, I turn on Spotify to A Rosary Companion and pray a Rosary for everyone I promised to pray for during my day. Typically, this means I’m praying for my students at USC, staff members, friends I called on my way to work, or family that I know is in need. There are days I sing along to the Divine Mercy Chaplet. During Lent, every Friday I listened to the Stations of the Cross podcast which allowed me to reflect on the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. All these beautiful traditions keep me centered in prayer but still able to concentrate on the road. via GIPHY Silence I know what you’re thinking… If you want me to fall asleep at the wheel, silence during traffic is the fastest way to closed eyes. Yes, I agree. Sometimes this is not the best idea, but sometimes you need to turn the volume down and clear your mind and talk to God. I typically don’t do this before the coffee has kicked in, but after a long day where a lot might be weighing on your heart and head, silence is truly golden. via GIPHY Podcasts via GIPHY I could have a different podcast for every day of the week, and who’s to say I don’t? Monday is typically Fr. Mike Schimdt’s homily for the students at UMD Catholic. Tuesdays are my girls Heather Khym, Sr. Miriam, and Michelle Benzinger of Abiding Together (Yes, I have my coffee in hand, girls). Wednesday I will either listen to Jenna Guizzar and Beth Davis with Blessed is She’s podcast The Gathering Place or to Teachable Tuesday (I put it face down and just listen to it while streaming it online. Don’t worry, I’m not watching and driving). Thursday is my Friday, so I often listen to our BIS sister Katie Prejean McGrady and her husband Tommy on their podcast The Electric Waffle. The list could go on and on. There are so many to listen to and if need something to erase the miles of your drive to work, pick up line, or soccer practice, give some Catholic podcasts a try. Talk Out Loud to God Now that there are speaker phones in almost every car, no one questions when someone is talking out loud in their car. No one needs to know that you’re talking to God out loud or if you're on the phone with your bestie. The reality is you are talking to your bestie, Jesus Christ, so be loud, cry, shout, whisper, vent, or just share what’s on your heart. No one will think you are crazy and even if they do, who cares?! God is listening and it’s the best place for a one-on-one conversation with Him. I Just Called to Say I Love You Every morning I start my day reading the readings of the day in my prayer room and asking God who I need to reach out to or offer up at daily Mass. On most days, God places specific people on my heart to pray for and reach out to on my commute. If the person is the east coast or central time, they get a call from me on my way to work. If they are on pacific time, I will call on my way home. I check in with them, leave a message if they don’t answer, and just ask them how they are doing and how I can pray for them. Most of the time we will pray together on the call. It never ceases to amaze me how God knows exactly who to call. Pray More Novenas I just recently realized I can listen to Pray More Novenas online and I have become so much better at starting and completing a novena. It is simple, actually. I put the Audible link on my calendar, and it alerts me during my drive to work. I just click the link without even looking down and listen to the novena while I drive. Try it—it is a game changer. How Do You Pray on Your Commute? Consider one or more of these suggestions and if you have other things you have done, please share them with us. God wants to accompany you in your care, so get in the carpool lane because you have a legitimate companion on your next commute! [bctt tweet="Ways to Pray While Carpooling/Commuting #BISblog //" username="socaltriciat"]

Everyone works. Animals work, humans work. But freedom can only be found in the work of a human because through it we become who we are meant to be. Human Work As An Expression Of Man’s Dignity In Laborem Exercens Pope St. John Paul II wrote specifically on human work. From the beginning, as we read in Genesis, man was placed on earth to order and subdue it. It is in his very nature. John Paul even describes work as something worthy of man—it expresses man’s dignity. He tells us about the ethical meaning of work, writing that: Work is a good thing for man-a good thing for his humanity-because through work man not only transforms nature, adapting it to his own needs, but he also achieves fulfilment as a human being and indeed, in a sense, becomes ‘more a human being.'   When one works, they are thinking of others. First, one may be thinking of their own family. But they should also consider the society they belong to, their country of origin, as well as their entire human family both present and those to come in the future. For as John Paul said, “he is the heir to the work of generations and at the same time a sharer in building the future of those who will come after him in the succession of history.” John Paul’s Experience Of Work The definition of “labor” means “expenditure of physical or mental effort especially when difficult or compulsory.'' Labor Day is a much appreciated day of rest from this physical and mental exertion. I appreciate that, while recognizing the good of work, John Paul does not diminish the hardship it entails. He notes that the bread man produces he does by the work of his hands and by the sweat of his brow. As he writes in Laborem Exercens, man works "in the midst of many tensions, conflicts and crises, which, in relationship with the reality of work, disturb the life of individual societies and also of all humanity." John Paul has shared with us about his first hand experience of this. Poetry Within The Quarry During World War II, Wojtyla experienced forced labor in a limestone quarry. He wrote about this in his poem titled “The Quarry”. Here he speaks of a man who, although deeply engrossed in an environment which would easily trigger one to feel anger and resentment, does not fall prey to despair. While this worker observed the blood, sweat, and tears around him, he kept his sight on Christ. John Paul wrote that rather then let evil corrode his soul, “the man has taken with him the world’s inner structure, where the greater the anger, the higher the explosion of love.” This quarry worker viewed the constant smashing of the hammer against stone as a meditation for chiseling away at his own imperfections in order to become a more perfect reflection of Christ. To be an explosion of His love. The Fruitfulness of the Work of the Laity Though I doubt that many of us reading this have experienced the manual labor of work in a quarry, this poem can be a reminder to us as we labor in our own work day, be this in the home or out in the world. Pope Paul VI wrote in Lumen Gentium that: the laity, dedicated to Christ and anointed by the Holy Spirit, are marvelously called and wonderfully prepared so that ever more abundant fruits of the Spirit may be produced in them. For all their works, prayers and apostolic endeavors, their ordinary married and family life, their daily occupations, their physical and mental relaxation, if carried out in the Spirit, and even the hardships of life, if patiently borne-all these become ‘spiritual sacrifices' acceptable to God through Jesus Christ...the laity consecrate the world itself to God.   One tangible way we can dedicate our day to Christ is by praying a daily offering. Though at times, we may find human work less of a joy and more of an invitation to embrace Jesus’ Cross, it is also a sign of hope, or as John Paul says, “a glimmer of new life,” for through it we participate in God’s divine plan. A Day Worthy of Rest Of course, the knowledge of the goodness of work should not keep us from enjoying the wonderful day of leisure that Labor Day offers us. After all, John Paul advises that we imitate God not only in working, but also in resting, especially on the Sabbath. He says that man’s work “cannot consist in the mere exercise of human strength in external action; it must leave room for man to prepare himself, by becoming more and more what in the will of God he ought to be.” Find rest today, in the confidence that by doing so you are preparing to be the person God has created you to be. [bctt tweet="The Dignity of Human Work #BISblog //" via="no"]

A bountiful rain you showered down, O God, upon your inheritance. // Psalm 68:9 Download these beautiful free wallpapers from Sarah Ann Design from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Remember, Members, you get this 8x10 digital download for free! Head to the shop for your download. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

Fall is right around the corner! And I don’t know about you, but the beginning of the autumn season reminds me of a “mini” new year. Of course, it feels like that because autumn ushers in a new academic year. What says “fresh start” better than opening a new notebook and writing in it with a newly-sharpened #2 pencil? While we all enjoy the slower pace of summer days, by the end of August, most of us are ready to refresh our rhythms of life, renew our commitments, and return to a more orderly way of life. Thankfully, the Church’s continuation of Ordinary Time into the autumn season helps us incorporate ways of keeping our spiritual routines steady and consistent. At the same time, a multitude of Catholic customs and traditions keep our faith life interesting and engaging. Liturgical Living Ideas for the Fall So how do we live liturgically during the ordinary days of autumn? Here are four ideas to help us fall into a beautiful rhythm of orderly, faith-filled autumn days. 1. Recommit to prayer. If summer’s lack of routine caused your prayer time to fall by the wayside, now is the time to start anew! Recommit to spending time with the Lord everyday. It’s okay if you have to start with a few minutes and grow from there. It is simply important to get back on track and work on consistency. 2. Learn something new. There is something in the crisp autumn air that reminds us of our love of learning. Whether you are still in school or it has been years since you stepped foot in a classroom, God invites us to continuously learn, grow, and discover within our Catholic Faith. So, this autumn dive into an aspect of Catholicism that you’re curious about: prayer, Scripture, the Saints, or Christian living. A Planner for a Faith-Filled Year A Happy Life Refresh your rhythms for the new season with the 2027 Catholic Liturgical Planner. Inspired by the Beatitudes, it makes room for prayer, gratitude, goals, habits, and the everyday details of a life centered on Jesus. Explore the 2027 Planner → Books I Recommend Here are a few books to ignite your desire to learn more about the Faith: Busy Lives & Restless Souls: How Prayer Can Help You Find the Missing Peace in Your Life by Becky Eldredge is for readers who feel like peace is missing in their lives. In this book, Becky unpacks the wisdom of St. Ignatius of Loyola in a fresh way and equips us with prayer tools that are accessible and practical within our daily routines. Becoming Women of the Word: How to Answer God’s Call With Purpose and Joy by Sarah Christmyer breathes new life into the stories of Old Testament women and makes their lives surprisingly relatable. Stories from Sarah’s faith journey as well as family and friends demonstrate how the same principles that turned ordinary women into faith-filled heroines are also true for us today. Catherine of Siena by Sigrid Undset presents a memorable portrait of one of the greatest female Saints of all time. Sigrid based this biography on primary sources, her experience living in Italy, and her personal understanding of the human heart. 3. Befriend the angels. In the autumn season, we celebrate the angels with two special feast days. The Feast of the Archangels is September 29. On this day, we honor three angels named in the Bible: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Michael is mentioned in Daniel 10:13-21 and 12:1, Jude 1:9, and Revelation 12:7-9 where he defeats Satan. In Luke 1:26-38, Gabriel greets Mary with “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you” and announces the birth of Jesus. Just prior to that, in Luke 1:8-20, Gabriel announces to Zachariah the birth of John the Baptist. Lastly, Raphael is named in Tobit 12:15. The Feast of the Guardian Angels is October 2. As Catholics, we believe that “beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life” (CCC 336). This fall, take time to read the Church’s teachings about the angels found in the Catechism 325-354. Or, begin praying the Angel of God prayer on a daily basis. This simple prayer invites our own Guardian Angel to be with us throughout the day, and helps us imagine his presence, guidance, and protection in our lives: Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.   4. Focus on gratitude. As we move into the month of November, it is important to intentionally slow down. The world around us wants to jump ahead to Christmas, while we still have a few more weeks of Ordinary Time before Advent begins. How to do it One way to stay present to the moments of this beautiful time of year—the natural season of autumn and the liturgical season of Ordinary Time—is to focus on gratitude. Here are a few ways to cultivate an attitude of gratitude this fall (and beyond): Keep a list // Every day, jot down one, three, or five things you are grateful for. Keep them in your Blessed is She planner in order to cultivate a daily gratitude habit. St. Ignatius of Loyola encouraged reviewing each day with gratitude, as part of his daily examen prayer. Say thank you // Send a thank-you note to someone who has blessed you practically or spiritually. Be specific in your words of gratitude. Pray the Scriptures // Find a Bible verse that exudes gratitude to the Lord for who He is and all that He does. Write it out, and post it prominently in your home. Pray it daily and make it personal. A Time of Renewal After the relaxed season of summer, we enter fall ready to refresh our routines and return to a more consistent schedule. The steady pace of Ordinary Time helps us in our pursuit of orderly days. It is a wonderful time to continue growing a regular prayer practice. Fall’s ordinary days also invite us to learn something new about our Faith, deepen our relationship with the angels, and cultivate a greater sense of gratitude in our lives. Of course, these ideas only begin the conversation of how to live liturgically during the ordinary days of autumn. Our rich Catholic Faith will always have us discovering new ways to live out our Faith in every season of life. How do you practice liturgical living during the ordinary days of autumn? This post contains affiliate links. Thanks so much for supporting Blessed is She!

My summer was going to be perfect. I landed an amazing summer job involving the great outdoors and working with kids—two of my favorite things. I was going to be working with some of my best friends within easy visiting distance of my boyfriend. Every day would be spent proclaiming the Gospel and I'd be getting paid for it. It was the perfect plan, and I couldn’t have been more excited. And then God’s plan came into action. A few weeks before departure for my job, I was playing in a soccer tournament for my college. I would never have suspected that one ugly play would completely ruin my well-laid plans for the next three months of my life. I remember the excruciating pain that flamed up in my ankle and the audible “pop” that everyone around me heard. Before I knew it, I was being carried off the field and rushed to the hospital. Diagnosis: multiple severed ligaments in my ankle. Recovery time: 8-12 weeks, if everything went perfectly. My eyes filled with tears as the doctor explained all the necessary rehab and physical therapy I would have to go through if I hoped to play soccer again. To say I was angry is an understatement. I had to turn down an amazing summer job opportunity. Suddenly I was faced with the reality of being home all summer. I had no job lined up. And how could I work on crutches? I was suddenly miles from most of my closest friends. My relationship quickly turned into a long-distance relationship. On top of that, I was forced to remain sedentary and still, unable to walk, drive, or go on long runs or exercise. 4 Truths to Remember When Life Doesn't Go as Planned My well-laid plans failed me. But that doesn’t mean my summer is a failure. After much thought, prayer, and counsel from Godly friends, I have been able to change my attitude and outlook. Here are some truths to pray on when it comes to life not going as you planned. 1. God has a plan, and that plan may not be the same as ours. As Christians, we are frequently reminded that God has a plan and a purpose for our lives. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse has brought me much comfort in times of uncertainty about the future. But after my injury, I was very disturbed as to how my plans were not what He wanted for me. After all, wasn’t I going to bring Him glory through my plans? Yes, but I quickly learned that I had put my summer plans completely into my own hands, without asking the Lord if it was truly His will. Proverbs 16:9 reminded me that, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” I planned my course, but the Lord established my steps. No matter how well we plan, we will always end up where the Lord wants us, even if it seems unfair or wrong at first. 2. Don’t try to fix things, just surrender and trust. When life seems to go not as planned, it can be tempting for us to try to take matters into our own hands and fix things. Upon arrival home for the summer, I started applying to every job under the sun. I was always met by denial due to the fact that, at that point, I still couldn’t walk on my ankle unaided. However, the Lord had a different plan for my summer. He didn’t want me continually forcing my way into the driving seat. Proverbs 3:5-6 says we must “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” I didn’t need to fix my summer, all I needed was to trust that He could fix it for me. I needed to surrender, something which is particularly hard for my control-freak nature. But it is only when we surrender our lives completely that He can start to work out His will in our lives. Let go and trust Him. 3. God will bring good out of what looks like a hopeless situation. In my eyes, there was a lie, and that was the lie that nothing good would happen in my summer due to my injury. It seemed like an eternity before God did bring good out of my injury, but truly, it was only a matter of a few weeks. God has opened-up opportunities for my summer that are greater than I could’ve planned for! Romans 8:28 says: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” No, my summer wasn't the picture-perfect summer I had envisioned. But it went in an extremely radical direction that could only have been uniquely designed by Him and for me! Whether it’s a horrifically sprained ankle or anything else, God can and will bring good out of a situation. 4. Don’t be afraid to go into the unplanned. I hate being out of control. The first day I got back home, with a swollen ankle and no idea of what the next three months would bring, I spent much of my day curled up in my bed. I felt alone and purposeless. I didn’t know what tomorrow would bring, and that scared me. But the truth is, no matter what tomorrow brings, we do not need to be afraid. We read in Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” No matter what the Lord has planned for you, and whether or not He has revealed His plan to you yet, you are not alone in the journey. We have no reason to fear. Rather, we should embrace the uncertainty, rejoicing in the truth that no matter what happens, the Lord is with us. His Ways are Higher These are the truths I reminded myself of daily throughout this summer. No, it wasn't easy. When your heart becomes troubled, I encourage you to return to these truths. Life doesn’t always go as we plan. This becomes an opportunity to trust in the Lord and His roadmap for our lives. I pray that you embrace the unplanned! Tell me about a time when your life didn't go as planned, but you saw the Lord's purpose in it all. [bctt tweet="Remember This When Life Doesn't Go as Planned #BISblog //" via="no"] Mary Grace Tillman, or Gracie, is a student, daughter, sister, friend, and full-time extrovert. If you don't find her on the nearest soccer field, she is probably lost down some country road with the windows down and tunes blaring. She loves to praise God through music and sports and she strives to live life to the fullest.

As I have grown in my faith, I have made close spiritual friendships with a wide variety of saints. Like many of you, I have my favorite spiritual besties who I rely on and talk with frequently. The parish I joined several years ago bears the name and patronage of Saints Monica and Augustine, one of the most famous mother-son duos in the Church. A small, diverse African American community located in eastern Detroit, my parish has helped me get to know and appreciate the unique lives of these two saints. An Unlikely Happy Ending On some level, many of us have at least heard of Saints Monica and Augustine. Augustine was born to an upper-class family around the year 354 in modern-day Algeria. His father Patricius was a pagan, who converted to Christianity on his deathbed. His mother Monica was a devout Christian and raised Augustine in the Faith. Despite the deep faith of his mother and his Christian upbringing, Augustine abandoned the Faith of his childhood and became a Manichean. Monica was utterly destroyed. But she never let go of the hope that someday her prodigal son would return to God. As a young man, Augustine began a long-term affair with a woman. They never married, and their relationship led to the birth of their son Adeodatus. In Latin, his name means “by God given” or “gift of God.” Augustine was a very intelligent man, and he eventually took a position teaching rhetoric in Milan. This experience led him to engage more frequently with Christian literature and other believers. Meanwhile, Monica unceasingly prayed for her son’s conversion. Perseverance in Prayer One hot summer day in 386, Augustine heard a childlike voice calling him to “take up and read.” He took this as a divine command, picked up the Bible, and opened to read the following: “... let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in promiscuity and licentiousness, not in rivalry and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.” // Romans 13:13-14 Augustine was cut to the heart. The conversion his mother prayed for all those years now began in great haste. By the next Easter Vigil, Augustine and his son were baptized by Saint Ambrose. Augustine's radical conversion led him to become one of the most profound spiritual teachers and bishops of Western Christianity. To this day, he is one of the most beloved and prolific writers and thinkers in the history of Catholicism. Lessons From Saints Monica and Augustine The story of Saints Monica and Augustine holds powerful, unique lessons for us. No matter where we are in life, and no matter what sins and shortcomings we wrestle with, there are special insights and lessons we can learn from this dynamic duo. Lessons From Saint Monica Saint Monica teaches us hope and persistence when situations look bleak. Hope The theological virtue of hope shines brightly in the life of Saint Monica. She hoped against all odds for her wayward son to return to the Lord. The virtue of hope is not wishful thinking for something you desire to happen. Rather, hope is all about who God is and who we are not. It helps us grow and develop a deeper trust in Jesus, which I imagine happened to Monica as she prayed for Augustine’s conversion. Persistence Monica was also a fierce woman who persisted in believing her son would convert. She never gave up, and she never stopped praying and fasting for him. More importantly, she never stopped loving Augustine, even when he lived a life contrary to the Gospel. Many of us have family members or friends away from Jesus or the Church. We wonder if our prayers make a difference and if we will see the day our loved one returns to the Lord. In these situations, Saint Monica reminds us to continue to persist in prayer and never give up. No one is too lost for the power of Jesus Christ to find them and bring them home. Lessons From Saint Augustine Saint Augustine teaches us two important lessons: the significance of a personal relationship with God and the reality that no person is too far gone for God. A Personal Relationship With God Augustine was raised in a devout Christian home, and he probably knew a lot about Jesus. But did he really know Him? It was not until he was an adult that he had a personal encounter with the Living God, which propelled a radical conversion. Living in an increasingly secular culture, it is important to keep in mind that people do not always come to the Faith through laws and rules, but through a personal encounter with God. This encounter leads them to a place of conversion, where the laws and rules can make more sense. No One is Too Far From God Before Augustine’s conversion, he lived many years away from the Lord. His story reminds us that no one is outside of the mercy and healing of Jesus Christ. There is no one whose sins are too great; there is no one who is too far from God. He can reach anyone with His love, because God sees and knows the depth of every human heart, and He has the power to transform every single one of us. Saints Monica and Augustine Lead the Way The lives of the Saints are a powerful example of what God can do in each of our lives. They were like us in many ways, with similar struggles, issues, joys, and dreams. What set them apart, and why we can follow their lead, is that they never gave up, even when their situation seemed impossible. Saints Monica and Augustine were no different. So, may we look to them for hope and encouragement. Do you have a devotion to one or both of these Saints? We would love to hear about their influence on your lives in the comments! [bctt tweet="Sts. Monica and Augustine: Lessons from One of the Most Famous Mother-Son Duos in the Church #BISblog //" username="amoderngrace"]

So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. Make straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be disjointed but healed. // Hebrews 12:12-13 Download these beautiful free wallpapers from Jazmin De Guzman from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Remember, Members, you get this 8x10 digital download for free! Head to the shop for your download. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

Sometimes, we’re the one that stays behind. Sometimes, we’re the one that leaves. Maybe we’re the one who remains while our loved one moves on. Or maybe we’re the one sailing into uncharted territory while those we love stay moored to shore. Regardless of how we find ourselves separated from our loved ones, the feeling of missing someone is one that we can all relate to. Separation, loneliness, and grief have touched all of our lives. Even Our Lord knew what it was like to need the comfort of His friends (Matthew 26:36-38)! Scripture Verses to Pray When You're Missing Someone When you inevitably find yourself in this situation, when your heart is heavy and you are in need of comfort, turn to the Lord! Look to His Word and know that you are not alone. In Times of Separation The first summer my kids went to stay with my in-laws for what they affectionately called “Camp GrammyGrandpa,” I missed them terribly! They were gone for a whole week and I wasn’t sure what to do without my little appendages hanging around all the time. Sometimes, though, we experience separations that are longer. There are business trips, deployments, kids leaving for college, and friends that move away. I’ve even suffered missing a friend who went back to work full-time after we had been stay-at-home moms together! When time or distance come between you and someone you love, it is good to pray for yourself and for the other person. Maybe you will find these gems from Scripture to be helpful. // “...for he said: 'May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are out of each other’s sight.'” Genesis 31:49 // “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.“ Hebrews 11:1 // “Be strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the Lord, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 // “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 // “For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:8 // “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27 In Times of Loneliness Some of the loneliest times of my life happened when I was missing not just someone, but something. I remember being a homesick college student who missed her family and her familiar surroundings. Then, as I transitioned out of my full-time job to stay home with my son, I missed my coworkers, my students, and frankly, life as I had known it. When you find yourself feeling lonely, try to spend some time with the Lord, reflecting on His Word for your life. // “Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 // “You are my salvation; do not cast me off; do not forsake me, God my savior! Even if my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will take me in.“ Psalm 27:10 // “Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God.“ Isaiah 40:1 // “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 In Times of Grief Whether we’ve known and loved someone well for decades, or have just felt the promise of life starting within our bodies, we grieve their passing. There is a finality we feel when we miss someone who has died, even though we know we hold the promise of eternal life in God, Our Father. Heaven can seem very far away for someone whose heart is hurting. Know, sisters, that we are not alone in our grief. Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus. The Saints, too, are no stranger to loss. Instead, cling to the hope offered to us by the Communion of Saints in Heaven and believe that you will see the one you love again. In the meantime, perhaps cling to these verses from Scripture, too. // “And Jesus wept.” John 11:35 // “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, [for] the old order has passed away.” Revelation 21:4 // “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way.” John 14:1-4 // “He will destroy death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from all faces. The reproach of his people he will remove from the whole earth; for the LORD has spoken.” Isaiah 25:8 // “So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” John 16:22 An Age-Old Blessing Last, but certainly not least is a blessing we can pray over our loved ones no matter how far away they are. It’s one that the Irish Blessing is based on and it dates back to the days of Moses. My family has prayed and sung it together for years and years. It always makes us feel closer to one another, despite being spread out all over the country and the world. May it bring you peace, as it has me. The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace! -Numbers 6:24-26   What Scripture verse gives you comfort when you are missing someone? [bctt tweet="Scripture Verses to Pray When You're Missing Someone #BISblog //" via="no"] This post contains affiliate links. Thanks so much for supporting Blessed is She! 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

There are multiple things I wish to impart to my children. I’m sure this is true of any mother. Primarily, my heart desires for each of them to personally know Jesus and follow Him throughout their life. That’s the main task I’ve been gifted as the mother of these beautiful, rambunctious souls: to get them to Heaven. There are specific disciplines that go along with this, of course. Things like teaching them how to pray, how to sacrifice, and how to lead others to Christ. The list goes on. I’d like my children to learn to play an instrument, have an appreciation for nature, and be avid readers. I do want my children to be valuable, contributing members of society, all the while recognizing that their ability to be such has absolutely zero reflection on their worth and dignity. Another Vital Skill As I’ve walked through some challenging times in my own life, however, my experiences have shown me that there is one vital skill needed for any life lived in relationship with others. It is something I find most people do not feel equipped to accomplish. Something they have never really learned: the ability to concretely forgive another person. Not as a construct. Not as a conceptual idea. But as a practical tool that accomplishes the reality of freeing you and cancelling all debts another may owe you. That is something else I desperately want to impart to my children—how to forgive. Jesus Calls Us to Forgive... (But How?) We must all recognize the reality that Jesus calls us, very distinctly, to forgive those that have wronged us. We pray the Our Father at every Mass asking that he would forgive us as we have forgiven those around us. In Matthew 7, we see that the measure we forgive will be the measure we are forgiven. These are quite pointed remarks that make me a little uncomfortable when I reflect on my own proclivities to extend forgiveness to those in my life that have hurt me. But recognizing the need for forgiveness in our own hearts is only the first step. While it is an incredibly important one, it must be followed with action. So how do we do this? How do we actively forgive someone? This is something I still struggle with in my life. It can be so much easier to hold onto bitterness and assert my own self-importance. Many may have heard the saying, “Lack of forgiveness is a poison you drink hoping the other person will die.” It truly costs our own self the most. Recognizing this, it is important to get practical. How to Forgive (for Real) At a specific point in my life, I began to really dive into the topic of forgiveness in order to gain the active skill to accomplish it. In doing so, I came to realize some misconceptions and realities regarding forgiveness that greatly aided me in moving forward to freedom. 1. Forgiveness is not the same thing as reconciliation. We often think that in order to forgive someone, we have to be restored in our relationship with them. There must be a meeting of parties, a communication of hurts, an apology, and a reconciliation between us. While this is an immense good and something we all ought desire, it is not necessary in the path of forgiveness. Forgiveness does not require both sides. You do not need an apology from someone to forgive them, and you do not have to communicate your forgiveness in order to accomplish it. We do not have to recommit to a relationship with someone in order to extend true forgiveness (certainly there are select encounters where this may be unsafe or inappropriate). Reconciliation takes two people. It takes an apology, an admission of wrongdoing. Forgiveness does not, it only takes you choosing to move forward with God’s grace. 2. Forgiveness does not mean what happened to you was okay. Forgiveness is not saying the wrongs done against you were just. It does not excuse what the person did, or indicate that they were in the right. Nor does it let them off the hook from God’s justice. We all will have to answer to the Lord for the wrongs we have done in this life. Instead, forgiveness stands in the truth that what happened to me was unfair, is unfair, and will always be unfair. Despite how I feel regarding the situation, I am choosing a new response to it. There is some area of your life that you lost unjustly. Recognize what you lost, and grieve it. Recognize that you were meant to have a safe and happy childhood, and you didn’t. You were meant to have committed relationships stand by you in the fire, and they left. You were meant to be protected from the abuse in your past, and you weren’t. God wanted better for you, and it didn’t happen. Grieve that. Because it is not okay. Recognize that forgiveness is a characteristic of the brave. It is not the easy way out, it is not giving up, it is not giving in. It is a strength that must be cultivated. 3. Forgiveness does not make you forget. It is a common saying that we ought to “forgive and forget.” But forgetting is not necessarily innate with forgiveness. We certainly don’t drift towards amnesia of the wrongs experienced in our lives. It is human to remember, even sometimes when we wish we could forget. However, a verse in Jeremiah challenged me to approach this reality with God’s perspective. Jeremiah 31:34 states, “. . .for I will forgive their iniquity and no longer remember their sin.” God no longer remembers our sins. He chooses to look on them no more. Forgiveness is a daily, volitional choice. It is responding to the grace that God gives us to even approach forgiveness in the first place, and discipling ourselves into no longer meditating on the wrongs done to us. You very well may have to choose, multiple times a day, to forgive the people who have hurt you. Deciding in those moments to remember their sins no more. To cancel all debts owed to you. To not let it control you. 4. Healing does not come with time. Healing comes with forgiveness and grace. This is another colloquial phrase that misinforms our culture: “Time heals all wounds.” That is simply false. People can, and often do, hold grudges for years. Healing only come when forgiveness happens with the aid of God’s grace. Now, it should be stated that some small infractions may heal with a little time and a little distance. We cannot function in emotional health if every time we are cut off in traffic we have a deep, overwhelming process of forgiveness. These are not the wounds I am referencing. I speak more to those deep wrongs, the ones that have shaped us, confused us, ingrained lies in our hearts, and cemented fear in our minds. Those must be dealt with, exposed, and healed. I would submit to you that forgiveness is an absolutely integral aspect of this process. Yes, that may take some time. But forgiveness is an act of the will, not a hope of progress in passivity. The Catechism states, “Now—and this is daunting—this outpouring of mercy cannot penetrate our hearts as long as we have not forgiven those who have trespassed against us” (CCC 2840). This will not innately happen over time. It will happen when we decide to forgive and heal--to receive that peace, love, and mercy that God is so ready to pour out on us. Learning to Forgive is a Process If forgiveness is something you are struggling with, I encourage you to pick up your Bible and meditate on the story of Joseph in Genesis. Joseph suffered grievous wrong at the hands of his own brothers, and walked through an incredible journey of forgiveness. His story shows that a heart willing to fight towards forgiveness experiences profound freedom and peace. He states to those that have greatly betrayed him, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20). May we find the same courage and freedom, and see the redemption God will lavish us with as we actively commit ourselves to the process of forgiveness. How do you strive to forgive despite the odds? [bctt tweet="How to Forgive (for Real) #BISblog //" via="no"] Sarah Scarbrough is a wife, mother of three, and registered nurse. A convert to the Church, she found her way home with the help of the early Church fathers, Saint Teresa of Avila, Chesterton, and Dorothy Day. She's committed to transparency and truth in living: we're all messes, striving for Heaven together.

For years, the only Catholic “art” on display in my home was a handful of crucifixes. My husband and I strategically hung them so one was always in view no matter where in the house you were. While we loved these beautiful pieces we had collected over the years, it was often all too easy to overlook them. As much as I cringe to admit it, they are so deeply familiar. They often don’t stop me in my tracks unless I’m very purposefully paying attention. A Beautiful and Faith-Filled Home I’m a very visual person, deeply affected by my surroundings and passionate about creating a comfortable, beautiful home. I’m sure many of you can say the same! When my husband expressed how much he wanted more Catholic art in our home a few years ago, I totally agreed with him on principle. But honestly, I was also a little reluctant. At that point, I had seen so few examples of religious art in home decor that didn’t stick out like a sore thumb, especially in a house like ours that has a pretty specific (white, bright, light, and airy) style. We were committed, though, so I decided to flip my reluctance on its head and turn this into a little design challenge. It's a Process Our first solution was a gallery wall that combined family photos, landscapes we’ve snapped, watercolor art, calligraphy prints, and a few 3-D religious items (crucifixes, a Rosary, and even a holy water font). It took a while to curate every piece, but when everything worked with—not against—our home’s aesthetic, it brought even more life and joy to our living room. We loved the results so much, we have brought the same strategy to other areas throughout our home, incorporating meaningful Catholic art seamlessly into our kitchen, our bedroom, and our son’s bedroom. How to Incorporate Religious Art Into Your Home (No Matter Your Style) I’d love to share a few of the tricks we’ve picked up, translated for a few different home styles! If your home is … Light and Airy Natural light makes your heart skip a beat and you’re forever opting for white paint and furniture? Me too. Religious art often comes in warm tones or heavy wood frames. But don’t be afraid to be picky in order to find the right pieces for your home. Swap out the frames on pre-framed pieces for slim white frames from Ikea, Target, or West Elm. White mats in all shapes and sizes are easy to find at stores like Hobby Lobby and Michael’s. We use mats for almost every framed item to give them more “breathing room.” If you find something special in a unique size or shape, Framebridge does incredible (and relatively affordable) custom framing for both paper and other items. Take the time to search for silver-toned icons, white ceramic statues, light-colored Rosaries, and artwork with the light and fresh feel you love. Images of Mary are a great place to start! Don’t miss: Romans 8 Scripture Poster Modern and Minimalist If your style errs on the minimalist side, you probably already pour lots of care and intention into each item you select for your home. Prioritize adding religious art to the areas where you need it most. Perhaps in your foyer, your kitchen, or beside your bed. For bold and impactful reminders, you can’t go wrong with modern-style calligraphy prints of prayers, quotes, or Scripture verses. Especially in a large scale, one bold piece may be all you need to make a statement and inspire more unceasing prayer. Don’t miss: Grace Before Meals Poster Cozy and Traditional If your space is the cozy kind that makes anyone feel welcome to curl up with a cup of coffee, prioritize religious art with a story behind it. Find a spot on your shelf for the statue of Our Lady that lived in your childhood bedroom. Hang a print of a painting that took your breath away on a pilgrimage above your mantle. Peruse Catholic bookstores and parish library sales for beautiful books that double as styling items when stacked on your shelf or coffee table. Don’t give in to the unspoken pressure to fill a space right away. Instead, take your time finding meaningful pieces that will open the doors to many sweet conversations. Don’t miss: Warm & Cozy Candle Colorful and Eclectic Be inspired by the universality of the Church and look to other countries and cultures for plenty of colorful inspiration. Along with keeping an eye out for beautiful pieces while traveling, many large cathedrals and basilicas carry pieces online (the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception’s shop, for example, is a great source of icons and artwork). Tuck Mexican prayer candles into cozy corners of your shelves, or opt for Providential Co.’s modern twist on them. Choose house plants and flowers for your home that have religious meanings. And of course, keep an eye out for colorful scenes in God’s creation that you can photograph and print. Social Print Studio can turn your photos into the coolest wood or metal prints. Don’t miss: Come Holy Spirit Digital Download Art Print It's an Adventure If you take your time collecting and styling, you will end up with a thoughtfully-curated collection that fits seamlessly with your style. And the hunt is almost sure to create its own stories and memories. How do you incorporate religious art into your home? Add your tips, ideas, and favorite sources in the comments below! [bctt tweet="Ideas for Incorporating Catholic Art into Your Home, No Matter Your Style #BISblog //" username="lisajanelkirk"]

Brothers and sisters: Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. // Hebrews 12:1-2 Download these beautiful free wallpapers from Brass and Mint from today's readings. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Remember, Members, you get this 8x10 digital download for free! Head to the shop for your download. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

The word "discernment" is like the word "vocation." We hear it and immediately think of the priesthood or religious life. We think discernment is something specific and set apart. We do this even though we know that God is calling all of us. Yes, we are all called to a life of holiness, and some of us live that out by taking specific vows. But discernment is not only about hearing God’s call in the “big picture” decisions of lives. It is a much broader practice of becoming attuned to God’s call as it manifests in our everyday lives. The word discernment itself means to “sift.” It’s a process of sifting through moments, interactions, and emotions like thousands of tiny grains of sand, looking for the flecks of gold that clue us in to God’s will for us. Emotions and Discernment It’s easy to recognize God’s call in our rightly-ordered feelings of passion, excitement, joy, and fulfillment. It’s like what everyone says about falling in love—you just know. More difficult and less enjoyable is learning to pay attention to our negative emotions. When these arise—and they arise in us all—we would rather set them aside or bury them. The last thing we want to do with our negative emotions is sit in the midst of them. This is why silence is so challenging for many of us. Using Negative Feelings in Discernment It can be a temptation to repress negative feelings, to chastise ourselves for even having them. Yet, if we choose to pay attention when these feelings strike, we may find that they are a great source of wisdom to us. They can teach us much about ourselves: our needs, our desires, our longings. As St. Augustine prayed, “Oh Lord, let me know myself; let me know you.” Here are five examples of ways to discern God’s whisper through our negative emotions. Envy Envy is a valuable tool because it speaks to us about our desires for ourselves. When we feel sadness at the good fortune of a friend, it is because we desire something of that for ourselves. Rather than fostering feelings of resentment towards those whom we envy, we should look inward and ask ourselves what it is that that we wish we had. To become attuned to our deepest desires is to become aware of the passions that God has placed within our hearts. Our talents and passions are gifts that God has given to us to live out the call for which he made us. The more we can embrace the way the Creator has made us, the more we can embody the vision of vocation articulated by St. Catherine of Siena: “Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire.” Aversion Strong feelings are good indicators that there is something important hiding underneath. When we experience particularly intense feelings of aversion, such as being “turned off” by certain types of people, these feelings often tell us more about ourselves than those whom we are tempted to avoid. When we experience a very strong emotion, we ought not simply react. Rather, it is a sign to pay attention! Instead of avoiding a person or situation that stirs up these feelings within us, we should ask ourselves why we feel this way. What provokes us to such strong emotions? When we close our ears uncritically or prematurely, we might miss a message God wants to speak to our hearts. If something provokes feelings this strong, it is likely a message that we deeply need to hear. Comparison When we compare ourselves to others, especially those whom we admire, we feel small. What do I have to offer the world compared to what they have already given? This is not the voice of the Lord. If we are faithfully following His call for us, then it is not up to us to judge the merits of our work. We cannot even know its impact or the plans He has for us. As St. Teresa of Calcutta said, “God does not call us to be successful, but faithful.” He asks for our five loaves and two fish. We are called to offer them, not to multiply them. If God is calling us to use our gifts, who are we to decide whether our impact is worthwhile? Overwhelm Feelings of overwhelm and anxiety are necessary reminders of our limitations. In the face of the many tasks that require our attention, these feelings prompt us to attend to our own neglected needs. These are needs we might otherwise choose to overlook. We must care for ourselves because we cannot serve from an empty vessel. In these moments, it helps to pause our work and simply choose joy. Have a cup of tea on the porch. Tickle your kids. Read your favorite blog or take a walk and listen to a podcast. Have a dance party. When we return to our work, the to-do list will be just as long, but we will not be the same. We will be refreshed and ready to tackle our important work with renewed energy and focus. Alienation The need to belong is among our deepest human needs. There is a great deal of vulnerability when we encounter a new community, whether it be after a move, changing parishes or jobs, or joining a ministry. Uncertainty, loneliness, fear that we will not be accepted can all be barriers to offering ourselves in relationship. Rather than focusing on the ways we feel unwelcome or withdrawing entirely, we can ask ourselves, "What do I have to give to this community?" When we shift our focus off of our own insecurities and onto filling the needs of others, we can encounter them with joy. The practice of hospitality itself makes us feel at home. Bringing (and Feeling) It All with Him God is present always, nearer to us than we are to ourselves. If we sit with the darkest parts of ourselves, our eyes will adjust, and we will begin to recognize that God sits there with us. When we invite God into the midst of our negative emotions, we can learn to see ourselves as He does, in the light of His mercy. If we do, we can grow in patience with ourselves, with our own humanity. Negative emotions are a part of the human experience. Even Jesus felt sadness and anger. Following in His footsteps does not mean stamping out these parts of ourselves, but faithfully sifting through them, holding on to what is of God, and letting the rest fall through our fingers. [bctt tweet="Using Negative Feelings in Discernment #BISblog //" username="sstephenson614"] Samantha Stephenson spends her days loving her husband, chasing after her children, and trying to find God in everything from diapers to dishes. A voracious consumer of books, blogs, and coffee, she holds degrees in theology and bioethics. You can find out more about her here.

Today marks the 20th anniversary of Pope St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Exhortation Redemptoris Custos: On the Person and Mission of Saint Joseph in the Life of Christ and of the Church. He has a lot to say about Joseph’s vocation as father and spouse to the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose Feast of the Assumption we celebrate today. John Paul fleshes out what it looks like to build a domestic church. He shows how the Holy Family modeled this. The Virtue of St. Joseph Because of his hiddenness and simplicity, Joseph is often overlooked. Matthew 1:19 shows this when Joseph learns that Mary is pregnant. We read that: Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly”. After the angel Gabriel appeared to him in the slumber of a dream, Joseph gave his own fiat to the Lord, just as Mary did and “when Joseph awoke, he did as the angel had commanded him and took his wife into his home. -Matthew 1:24   John Paul writes about how, after the angel appeared to St. Joseph, he took Mary in, embracing the mystery of her motherhood. In doing so, he exemplifies a purity and readiness of will, just like Mary’s. Joseph’s faith was united to that of Mary’s and he was obedient to God. In his masculinity and great self control, Joseph respected Mary’s call to give herself wholeheartedly to God. He knew that his vocation and path to Heaven was to love and care for Mary. He did this with great virtue and selflessness in his vocation as husband. St. Joseph’s Fatherhood St. Joseph served Jesus in his fatherhood. In his vocation as father, he gave his whole life to his family. Joseph raised Jesus. His life’s work provided for Jesus’ food, clothing, and education. Joseph brought sanctification to the Holy Family’s life though his daily work because it is through the work that we do that we become more human, and more dignified. Pope Pius IX declared Joseph the Patron of the Catholic Church. John Paul writes that: Besides trusting in Joseph’s sure protection, the Church also trusts in his noble example, which transcends all individual states of life and serves as a model for the entire Christian community, whatever the condition and duties of each of its members may be.   He urges us to look to St. Joseph as a model for each and every one of us, no matter our state in life. The Holy Family and the Domestic Church John Paul II said in Redemptoris Custos that: ...it is in the Holy Family, the original ‘Church in miniature (Ecclesia domestica), that every Christian family must be reflected. Through God’s mysterious design, it was in that family that the Son of God spent long years of a hidden life. It is therefore the prototype and example for all Christian families.   Mary and Joseph’s relationship was focused on Jesus. Their witness is one we can look to as we aim to better love those in our lives, be they our spouse, children, parents, siblings, friends or co-workers. It is through Mary and Joseph’s marriage that the spousal gift of self is realized. John Paul describes them as being the summit from where holiness spreads over all the earth and where we can learn to be a sanctuary of love. He writes: The essence and role of the family are in the final analysis specified by love. Hence the family has the mission to guard, reveal and communicate love, and this is a living reflection of and a real sharing in God’s love for humanity and the love of Christ the Lord for the Church His bride. Role of Singles, Married Couples, and Families Whether or not we are single or married, we are all part of a family, be it dysfunctional or not. All families are called to be an image of Christ’s love for the Church. If we are still living with our parents, we can strengthen this “Church in miniature” by practicing selflessness in a variety of ways. For example, by preparing a home-cooked meal for dinner and leading your family in grace, intentionally inviting a parent or sibling out for a coffee date, spending extra time tidying up the house, or simply being more present when someone in our family shares a story with us. If you are married, building up the domestic church can include starting you and your spouses’ day with prayer, planting your roots firmly in Jesus’ love and truth. It can mean being more attentive to your spouse’s needs and desires. Aim to serve them in this way, despite the inconvenience and uncomfortability it may call for (full disclosure: this is one I am far from perfecting). If you are blessed with children, building up the domestic church within your home could mean a daily family prayer time, keeping Christ at the center. There are so many small and simple ways in which you can live out the Church in your home. You can hang up religious art, place holy water fonts in your children’s rooms, volunteer as a family, and frequent the Sacraments. Resources for the Family If you are looking to cultivate the domestic church within your own home, here are a few resources to get you started. Books The Little Oratory - Bring the Eucharistic worship of the Mass into your home with this book! Learn how your family life can transform the world. Around the Year with the Von Trapp Family - Make your earthly home a reflection of our Eternal Home with the help of Maria von Trapp. She shares about her favorite Christian traditions, including songs, personal recipes, and games to celebrate both traditional and holy days. The Catholic All Year Compedium: Liturgical Living for Real Life - This book is written by one of Blessed is She’s very own writers, Kendra Tierney. She offers her ideas on how to incorporate the liturgical year into your family’s life. Pray With Me: Seven Simple Ways to Pray with Your Children - Former director of Children’s Ministry for the Apostleship of Prayer shares how to incorporate spontaneous prayer into your family’s everyday life through simple opportunities like hearing an ambulance siren or preparing for a test. Websites Teachingcatholickids.com - This online tool comes from Our Sunday Visitor. They provide free downloadable activities and weekly articles. Catholicicing.com - Here is your site for creating fun Catholic projects and crafts! The Holy Family as a Model for Our Families and Homes Regardless of your current state in life, Pope Francis wrote a beautiful and simple prayer which everyone can use to pray for the grace to live out the domestic church in their own family. [bctt tweet="How (+ Why) to Build Your Domestic Church #BISblog //" via="no"] This post contains affiliate links. Thanks so much for supporting Blessed is She!

As people, we want to be seen. We want to see how many “likes” we can get on Facebook. We want to have more followers on Instagram and the longest streak possible on Snapchat. Our desire is to flourish in our job or community. We want to reach our dreams and leave our print on the world. Yet, do we ever have enough? What if we turned our back on what our world tells us is important? What if we start finding our worth in who we are as an individual and who we are as a child of God? How would life look if we were unseen? Times of Feeling Unseen I remember feeling unseen in school. As a girl, I wanted to be in a relationship. I wanted to be recognized for the great person I thought I was. I wanted to look pretty and fit in. Once I started teaching, I wanted recognition. The plaques, the compliments, the gratitude for all the energy and love I put into treating each student as my own child. I wanted to be recognized for those times when I gave all of me at school and had nothing left to give my family once I got home from work. Becoming a mother was one of the best things that ever happened to me, yet it was also one of the hardest. Loving my child, patiently teaching him the ways of the world, playing with him, and disciplining him to show him how to be the best-version-of-himself has not come with trophies. Instead it has come with tireless effort and sleepless nights. Going from working full-time to staying at home with my sons has been the most unseen I ever have been. There's housework that never ends, meals that only a few people will eat without complaining, and the constant need of giving myself to help those in my family. Have I been given huge bouquets of flowers and free vacations for this endless work? No. Instead I have been given owies to kiss, boys to snuggle, a house that is clean enough, and family meals with giggles. We are Seen By God When I first stayed home, it was not easy for me. Instead I was questioning why I was home. Yes, I was taking care of my children, but it felt like something was missing. It felt like I should be doing more. As a teacher, you barely have time to go to the bathroom, let alone take time throughout the day to contemplate if you’re doing enough. Being at home is similar, but I found myself with sparse moments to have these feelings of wanting something more. I have been home for four years now and recently I was having these thoughts again about whether or not I was doing enough. Content in My Work While praying and trying to discern what I’m currently called to do, I randomly came across a book called Unseen by Sara Hagerty. It looked interesting, so I ordered it from the library. I soon forgot about it until it came. Little did I know this book was going to put my heart at peace once again. Once I started reading, I felt as though it was written specifically for me. All my feelings of unworthiness in the world’s eyes rested in the fact that, “We mattered before anyone else knew us, before we even had breath.” This hit me because here I was trying to make sense of if I was doing enough, when I was actually trying to fit in the world’s standard of “doing enough.” I felt unseen. It felt like the world kept going after I left the workforce and I got left behind. I felt the only person who acknowledge me in some way was my husband, and every once-in-a-while another family member or friend. In truth, God acknowledges me and wants me to continue my work as a stay-at-home-mom. Sara Hagerty says on page 41 of Unseen, “And God doesn’t stop thinking about us. He never stops looking at and into us. There is never a time when we are unseen by Him: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” (Psalm 139:7).” How to Live Unseen God sees us and wants us to live as though we are unseen. Does this mean we need to give away all our possessions and go live in a hut somewhere? Does it mean we need to get rid of cable TV and become a hermit? No. It means that there is gift that comes from being unseen in our world. Our world continues to give us the message that if we are not doing something big and grand then it doesn’t matter. That is the complete opposite of what we are called to do. Many times it’s the simple things in life that we are called to do in a grand way like: Giving your undivided attention to a family member. Washing the endless pile of dishes or doing the mountains of laundry without complaining. Cooking a meal that fills a hungry belly even though it’s not your favorite to eat. Writing a letter to someone you care about. Sharing a smile and being polite to the cashier at the grocery store. Not getting angry with someone who cut you off while driving. Lending a listening ear to that person who never lets you get a word in. Playing with that child that is often left to play on their own. Putting away the iPhone to enjoy the world and beauty around you. Saying, “Thank you,” to someone who has helped you in your life. Asking for forgiveness or praying for those that have offended you. Call or text someone that’s been on your mind, but you just haven’t made the time to contact. Being Unseen with Love Sara says, “Hidden servanthood is drudgery when we’re intent on the praise of others. And it’s also drudgery when we tell ourselves our desires for recognition and praise don’t matter. When we know we are seen by the one who created praise itself and He is the one who gives us a word of affirmation—when He notices us pouring ourselves out in secret—we realize that this is what we craved all along. The pits---whatever they may be for us in any given moment—are no longer awful. Being elbow-deep in soap suds and breakfast-sausage grease looks and feels different when we know God sees us there” (Page 51). If we do our everyday tasks that are unseen by the world, with great love, so many things will be possible. We can live a life that doesn’t make us question if we need to be more. We can live a life knowing that what we do is important and will lead us down the path where we are suppose to go. Being unseen may not feel normal. It may feel uncomfortable or even mundane. At times, it may feel as though we are all alone. But rest assured, it is in the unseen that we are brought to a better place. We are given the opportunity to rest in the Lord. It allows us to step outside the box and refocus on what truly matters in this life. We are all called to something bigger and better! For it is when we are unseen by the world, that we truly can see ourself and who we are. What we stand for and what we treasure. Do our treasures lie in the eyes of others and the world, or in the One who created us? [bctt tweet="When You're Feeling Unseen #BISblog //" via="no"] Ann Marschel works as a Billings Ovulation Method Instructor and for Learning MN when not caring for her boys at home. She loves being with her family, going for walks, and learning all she can about Jesus and women's health. You can find out more about her here.