In His goodness, God has turned the shame I carried all my life into His fame. He has made me into a survivor with a purpose: to let men and women everywhere know that no matter what they have gone through, healing is available and possible to all God’s children. I can finally say that I am thankful for my scars. Of course, it wasn’t always this way. It took me years to understand and realize how shame was hijacking my happiness and stealing my joy. Jesus invites you to bring the things you are most ashamed of into His healing light and His love. He gave this power to His priests through His Church in the Sacrament of Confession (see John 20:23). Jesus is longing to show you His merciful love, especially in those dark places where shame has taken root. As a trauma survivor, the biggest problem I see with this type of toxic shame is that most of us don’t know that it doesn’t come from God. Shame comes from the evil one who hates all God’s children and would do just about anything to keep us away from God and from experiencing His love and mercy. Guilt Versus Shame There is also a great misunderstanding that needs to be clarified. That is the belief that guilt and shame are the same. The biggest difference is that guilt needs to be forgiven and shame needs to be healed. Guilt is inspired by God through a well-formed conscience. Guilt is remorse for having committed some offense or wrong, real or imagined. Guilt is able to separate the act from the person. We shouldn't feel any less of a person for sinning, for we know that we are imperfect. We are weak and in need of God’s grace to avoid sin. The second, which is so often confused with guilt, is shame. Shame finds its roots in Satan, for he was the one who first tempted our first parents to sin and to this day he continues to shame us every time we sin. Shame tells us we are unforgivable and unlovable. Shame also tells us that everyone would be ashamed of us if they knew of our deep wounds from sin. Shame makes us hide not only from God but also from our brothers and sisters in Christ. The Destruction Caused by Shame Shame is a powerful, sometimes debilitating emotion that can cause us to withdraw from others. From my own experience, shame is what kept me from talking about the abuse I suffered as a little girl and finding the help I so desperately needed. Shame is also what led me to believe that God didn’t love me and that I would never find happiness. This belief led me to think that I didn’t deserve to be happy. Finally, in my late-20s, I began to realize how I was sabotaging my own happiness by being drawn to people who would hurt me. Most of us have been deeply scarred by shame. Some more than others. Shame can also lead to some devastating self-destructive behavior, such as self-pity, self-hatred, lack of self-confidence, and so on. This toxic shame becomes the lies we carry around with us everywhere we go, and it creeps into every relationship we have with other people. Consequently, these lies become chains. These chains can then separate us from the love of Christ. Christ Can Heal His Children The good news is that, with God’s grace, we can learn how to let go of this type of toxic shame. Our God is a God of restoration and He desires to show us how to replace these lies of shame with His truth and mercy. All we need to do is sincerely turn to Him in prayer. How do we get these truths to go from our heads to our hearts? As with everything, we look to Scripture for our answer. The Apostle Paul talks a lot about the power of prayer. In Ephesians 1:17, he says that he prays “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of him.” The spirit of wisdom is one that gives us insight. The gift of revelation will help you see like never before—the truth will be unveiled. By praying that God would give us the gift of wisdom and revelation, we are essentially asking God that all His truth about who He is and who we are in relation to Him will move from our heads and into our hearts. Be patient with yourself, since this will most likely take time and practice. Nothing Can Separate Us from the Love of Christ For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, can separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. // Romans 8:38-39 Our wounds and past sins do not separate us from the love God the Father has for us. But, if we allow it, our past can become an obstacle in our love for Him. Once you welcome God into those deep wounds and ask Him to remove the toxic shame you have been carrying, you will then begin to feel free to accept the love and healing He has for you. At this point shame will no longer hold you captive. I don’t pretend to know what type of shame you are carrying. One thing I know for sure is that you matter. Your story matters. Your wounds matter. God wants to come into those places in your heart that shame has taken root and uproot those nasty lies caused by shame. It is helpful to remember that sometimes our hearts are broken by sinning against Our Lord, ourselves, and others. In His endless mercy and through the Sacrament of Confession, the good Lord brings forgiveness to our broken hearts. Open your hearts wide and be ready to receive it! Dear Lord, teach me how to let go of any toxic shame I have been holding on to. Help me to trust in your endless love and mercy. Amen!   [bctt tweet="The Problem with Toxic Shame #BISblog //" via="no"]

When I hear the words “Theology of the Body” (TOB) I think almost instantly of Pope Saint John Paul II as well as people who have devoted their lives to making this great treasure of the Church more accessible. I think of the books I have read on the topic and the conversations which have been sparked because of it. While the Theology of the Body can sometimes be mistaken as what the Church tells us we “can’t” do when it comes to sex, the goal of TOB is to help us understand how our bodies reveal God Himself. It isn’t just for married couples. Books about the Theology of the Body The Theology of the Body teaches us what it means to be human and points to our ultimate vocation: a vocation of love. The book list below will explain how. In The Words of JPII Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body by John Paul II, translated by Michael Waldstein The great work of John Paul II himself must be included at the top of any list about the Theology of the Body. This is the pope who delivered one-hundred and twenty-nine papal audiences on the topic, taking him five years to complete. In these addresses, he spoke about Christ’s spousal love for the Church and how this very real and genuine love is actualized through human relationships and through our gift of self. It’s Not Just About Sex These Beautiful Bones: An Everyday Theology of the Body by Emily Stimpson Chapman For ten years, I’ve been waiting for someone to write a book about the theology of the body that wasn’t just about sex. Emily explains why she wrote These Beautiful Bones, a book that speaks to the beauty of the Theology of the Body beyond the bedroom. In the words of Dr. Scott Hahn, Emily “uses the sacramental lens of the liturgy to explore a wide range of activities in daily life. Whether it’s your eating habits or clothing styles, the dignity of hard work or the pitfalls of pop culture, you will find in this book lots of graceful guidance in living out the physical side of being spiritual.” As she points out, the Theology of the Body is about treating both ourselves and others around us with love and respect, recognizing that they too are made in the image and likeness of God. “Magna res est amor!” // “A great thing is love!” Marriage: The Mystery of Faithful Love by Dietrich Von Hildebrand While he doesn’t focus specifically on the words “Theology of the Body,” Von Hildebrand does write about the role of love within marriage and provides an understanding for why God chose marriage as a symbol for His relationship with us. In less than 100 pages, he shares the right motive for marrying, the difference between marriage’s meaning and its purpose, how marriage reveals God’s love for us, and so much more! He writes that marriage is used as a symbol for God’s love for us: because marriage is the closest and most intimate of all earthly unions in which more than in any other, one person gives himself to another without reserve…in love the partner we love Christ simultaneously. In the beloved, we love Christ. My “Three Stages” For Couples Looking back, I think of three different “stages” of books about the Theology of the Body that my husband and I read throughout our relationship. First Stage Theology of the Body for Beginners: Rediscovering the Meaning of Life, Love, Sex, and Gender by Christopher West I consider this one to be “first stage” because we each read it individually while we were single, and then together when we were dating. It is a wonderful entry-stage book that really takes you into a deep, Catholic understanding of sexuality. In these pages, Christopher West provides the foundation for better understanding Saint John Paul II’s teaching on the Theology of the Body. It also helped my husband and I come to a greater appreciation of one another, to better understand what we were created for, and to deepen our gratitude for the Church and why she teaches what she does. Second Stage Good News about Sex & Marriage: Answers To Your Honest Questions About Catholic Teaching by Christopher West In Archbishop Charles Chaput’s foreword of this book he writes, “...it’s not a theoretical work, nor a textbook. Rather, it’s a source of practical nourishment, because it continually shows that dealing honestly with issues of sex and marriage brings us face-to-face with the whole Gospel message and the meaning of our lives.” My husband and I read this during our engagement and I loved how comprehensive the topics were. Chapters include a focus on: Church Authority Chastity Outside of Marriage Chastity Within Marriage Reproductive Technologies Same-Sex Attraction and more One of my favorite aspects is the Q&A format of the book. I appreciate how honest the questions are and how thoroughly each is addressed. Questions include why there is a widespread misunderstanding that the “Church is down on sex” as well as questions regarding what the Church teaches when it comes to oral and anal sex, masturbation, impotency, and infertility within marriage. Third Stage Holy Sex!: A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving by Gregory K. Popcak, Ph. D. Now we arrive at the “stage three” TOB book that my husband and I read together during our engagement and it’s one I recommend waiting to read with your significant other until then. Despite the fact that this book remains faithful to Church teaching in regards to sexual union, Popcak goes into great detail about it. And while the book offers helpful questionnaires and quizzes, it is probably best to wait until engagement before diving into those deep and intimate questions together. Beyond the questionnaires and quizzes, this book shares real life testimonies from couples who talk about their own experience of sexual intimacy. Stories which include feelings of shame and/or fear of vulnerability, and how they found healing from their past and grew in trust of their spouse and their spouse’ intentions. This book provides the answers for so many questions you might be afraid to ask. What Books about the Theology of the Body Do You Love? I hope that through one or more of these books, you will come to find a deeper and more full understanding of who God created you to be and how He created you to love. What is your favorite book on the Theology of the Body?   [bctt tweet="Best Books about the Theology of the Body #BISblog //" via="no"]

I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. // John 13:34 Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

While hanging on the Cross and obtaining our salvation, our gracious Lord made the effort to turn our attention toward His Mother. In addition, He instructed her to behold His disciples as her own sons and daughters. While He is her first born, all of mankind is her second born. Christ commanded the fostering of this relationship from the Cross because there is a tie within it to the graces of salvation. As always, Mary was obedient to her Son. Viewing all of humanity as her beloved children, the Blessed Virgin is a perfect mother. She loves, supports, and encourages her children, respecting their free will, but also beckoning them towards all that is good, true, and beautiful: namely, her Son. Approved Marian Apparitions throughout the World Throughout Church history, numerous reports of Mary’s appearance under miraculous circumstances have been made. These claims are never taken lightly by the Church and are scrutinized under heavy investigation. Only twenty-six have been given approval by Church hierarchy, and a distinct pattern can be seen in each of the appearances. Mary always lovingly assures us of her love and care for us, and beckons us towards repentance and greater communion with Jesus. Often she requests the building of a church to be built upon that location, while also imploring an increase in prayer, fasting, and sacrifice. No matter the time or place of the apparition, Mary’s message is universal—a truth made abundantly more clear by the fact that she has appeared to people throughout the centuries and all around the globe! In Africa In all of Africa, only one apparition has been granted approval by the Holy See; the appearance of Our Lady of Kibeho who referred to herself as “Mother of the Word.” Our Lady of Kibeho On November 28th, 1981, Our Lady appeared to sixteen year old Alphonsine Mumureke outside the Catholic high school she attended in Kibeho, Rwanda. With great faith, Alphonsine immediately knew the heavenly identity of the beautiful woman and listened attentively. Mary’s message was a request for repentance and conversion in order to avoid a coming war, but no one believed Alphonsine’s claims. As a sub-par student from a murky region with ties to the practice of magic, many believed it an attempt to garnish personal attention. Humbly, Alphonsine requested that Our Lady would appear to other students in order to make her message more widely accepted. Mary responded affirmatively. On January 12th, 1982, thirteen year old Nathalie Mukamazimpaka witnessed an apparition of Mary in the same vicinity as Alphonsine. To her, Mary echoed the call for redemptive suffering and unceasing prayer. Then, on March 2nd, 1982, Marie Claire Mukangango–a fellow student who had been staunchly unbelieving–was also granted an apparition. Through her, Mary called for more repentance and emphasized devotion to the Rosary and the Seven Sorrows of Mary. Our Lady of Kibeho appeared to the three girls multiple times, with Alphonsine’s visions being the most numerous and lasting until November 28th, 1989. All three girls reported seeing visions of the impending destruction and violence that could be prevented by mass repentance. In 1994, Rwanda fell into civil war and nearly a million people lost their lives to the Rwandian Genocide. After a thorough investigation, Bishop Augustin Misago of Gikongoro approved the apparitions on June 29th, 2001. In Asia Like Africa, Asia has only one approved Marian apparition. Of all the apparitions supported by the bishops, Our Lady of Akita is the only one in which Mary appears in a non-traditional way. Our Lady of Akita In 1973, over the course of four months, Our Lady appeared three times to a middle-aged Buddhist convert who was completing her novitiate with the Institute of the Handmaids of the Holy Eucharist. Though completely deaf, Sister Agnes Sasagawa heard the Virgin Mary speak and was healed. Mary instructed that the inclusion of the word, “truly” be added to a Eucharistic prayer that had been penned by the current bishop. She emphasized obedience and the practice of praying for the Pope, bishops and priests. She warned of a great chastisement and reminded of the Second Coming. A unique aspect to this apparition is that Mary spoke to Sister Agnes via a wooden statue of herself. This statue reportedly bled, wept (101 times over the course of eight years), and perspired in congruence with her messages. The sculptor also declared that the expression on Mary’s face post-apparition was not the same as the one he had originally fashioned. After eleven years of investigation, the apparition of Our Lady of Akita was approved by Most Revered John Shojiro Ito, Bishop of Niigata on April 22nd, 1984.     In Europe Of all the continents, Europe has the most approved apparitions by both local bishops and the Holy See. Eighteen in total, this is likely due to proximity. Since these apparitions take place over the course of many centuries, and the ease of modern travel and communication has not always been available, it is logical to see how these countries were able to more easily communicate with the Vatican than those scattered throughout the globe. Thus, some of the most popular Marian devotions have arisen from these countries (Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, etc.). Due to their widespread popularity, lesser known apparitions from the continent are highlighted below. Our Lady of the Golden Heart At the end of November 1932, Our Lady appeared various times to two sets of siblings in Beauraing, Belgium asking for the conversion of sinners. Over the course of thirty-five days, siblings Fernande, Gilberte, and Albert Voisin, along with their friends Andree and Gilberte Degeimbre reported that she, dressed all in white and claiming to be the Immaculate Conception, appeared to them a total of thirty-three times. In one of her last visits to the children, she revealed to them her heart, which was golden in color. Sixteen years later, Andre Marie Charue, Bishop of Namur, finished the evaluation process and officially approved the apparition on July 2nd, 1949. Our Lady of Siluva The first widely-known apparition in Europe took place in this small Lithuanian village. As a result of the Protestant Reformation, the people of Siluva slowly succumbed to Calvinist belief and abandoned their Catholic Faith. Weeping profusely and holding her infant Son, Mary appeared to four children who were playing and watching over their family flocks. Donned in white and blue, her brown hair loose and flowing, she said nothing to the children. She only turned to them in her great sorrow. The children were chastised by some for their tale, but their persistence and unwillingness to abandon their story eventually won over the people. The entire village returned to their Catholic Faith. This apparition was approved by Pope Pius VI on Aug 17th, 1775 (a couple of centuries later). Our Lady of Lezajsk In 1578, a Polish woodcutter, Thomas Michalek, received two visions of the Blessed Virgin while he was working in the forest. During her first visit, Our Lady requested a church be built at the site to honor her Son and promised to pour out graces to those who visited faithfully. Mary returned a second time because Thomas told no one of her first visit. At her persistence, Thomas obeyed. A little over a century later, the apparition was officially approved by both the local bishop (Henryk Firlej, Bishop of Przemysl on July 2nd, 1724) and the Vatican (Pope Benedict XIV on September 8th, 1752). In North America Our Lady of Guadalupe One of the most popular Marian apparitions took place in Guadalupe, Mexico when Our Lady appeared to Juan Diego on Mount Tepeyacac dressed as an Aztec princess. She requested the construction of a church at the site, which was granted after her provision of a miracle. One of the most important aspects of this apparition was the immense healing it brought to the region. The brutality of the Spanish Conquistadors had left deep wounds among the natives. Most rejected the Catholic religion which had been forced upon them. However, after this apparition in which she appeared dressed as one of them, millions of people converted with their whole hearts. Over the course of ten years, nine million people in total became Catholic which transformed the entire culture of Mexico. Twenty-four years after the appearance, Archbishop Alonso de Montúfar gave his official approval of this miraculous appearance of Mary. Our Lady of Good Help Just four years after the appearance of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes, France, Our Lady appeared to a Belgium immigrant to the United States in October of 1859 a total of three times. Referring to herself as “Queen of Heaven,” she instructed Adele Brise to evangelize and catechize the children in the surrounding areas of (modern day) Champion, Wisconsin—still somewhat unsettled—that they would know what was necessary for their own salvation. Though the task seemed daunting, Mary assured Adele, “Go and fear nothing. I will help you.” Adele obeyed, traveling on foot a radius of fifty miles regularly to accomplish this task. Her father built a chapel over the site, which remains as the national shrine. This apparition was recently granted episcopal approval on December 8th, 2010 by Bishop David L. Ricken of Green Bay, Wisconsin. In Central America The only approved Marian apparition took place in Nicaragua in 1980. Our Lady of Cuapa Forty years ago, Our Lady illuminated light from a statue as a sacristan, Bernardo Martinez, worked alone within his parish. This experience moved him to personal conversion as he examined his conscience. He made a public apology for divisions he had caused among the people in his small village of 5,000. Mary then appeared to Bernardo a handful of times after this. First, while fishing and praying the Rosary, Bernardo witnessed flashes of lightning before the Blessed Virgin appeared on a white cloud, affirming that she was the mother of Jesus. A second time, while dreaming, he saw different groups of people in stages of holiness, either in Heaven or moving towards it, all of whom were holding rosaries. Another time, Our Lady appeared as a seven-year-old child. At each appearance, her message was the same. She desired the prayerful, deliberate repetition of the Rosary in order to bring about personal conversion and stop destruction within the world. The fourth time she appeared, she wept because of the staunch, unmoved hearts of the people who would not believe Bernardo. She told him that she would appear no more, but to be assured that she is always with us and to never be troubled. Only two years later this apparition was approved by Bishop Pablo Antonio Vega Mantilla of Juigalpa, as well as Bishop Bosco M. Vivas Robelo, Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Managua. In South America Our Lady of Good Success Venerable Mother Mariana de Jesus Torres witnessed multiple heavenly visitors and was a recipient of the stigmata in addition to her reception of Our Lady of Good Success. Over the course of forty years, Our Lady appeared to Mother Mariana a total of four times. On her first visit (February 2nd, 1594), she appeared with comfort and assurance for the abbess who was imploring heavenly assistance for the state of her convent, as well as the world. The Blessed Virgin spoke of being the Queen of Victories, her eloquence planting trust in heart, and insisted she would see the sisters through every difficulty they faced. Throughout the decades, she prophesied of many things to come, including the declaration of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, local events in Ecuador like the election and martyrdom of a truly Christian president, and a decline of faith among the people around the world including priests and religious. Often she appeared holding the infant Jesus whom she would place in Mother Mariana’s arms to adore. This apparition was approved on February 2nd, 1611 by Bishop Salvador de Riber before the final appearance occurred on December 8th, 1634. Reconciler of People and Nations On the feast of the Annunciation in 1976, Our Lady appeared to Maria Esperanza, a mother of seven, in Betania, Venezuela. The property had been prayerfully purchased by Maria and her family as she had been promised by God that great things would come to pass on the land. In this visit, Our Lady revealed her desire to be known as “Reconciler of People and Nations,” that people would be drawn to conversion and reconciliation to God through her. The site immediately became a place of devotion, and numerous people testified to miraculous things occurring (heavenly singing, throngs of flowers springing forth, and movements of the sun to name a few). However, Maria remained the only visionary. Then, on that same date in 1984, a group apparition occurred in which over 108 people clearly saw the Virgin Mary at the site. After three years of interviews and investigation, Bishop Pio Bello Ricardo approved the apparitions on November 21st, 1987. The final apparition occurred in 1990. Our Lady of the Rosary Of all the Marian Apparitions, there is only one-approved apparition that is ongoing and taking place to this day. Beginning on September 25th, 1983 in San Nicolas, Argentina, Our Lady appeared to Gladys Quiroga de Motta, a middle-aged woman with almost no formal education, thousands of times. Dressed in blue and holding the infant Jesus, Our Lady called for the conversion of sinners and the prayerful recitation of the Rosary. She often gave Gladys Scripture passages with which to pray, and warned of impending world dangers should conversion be rejected. She implored the faithful to remember that these are “Advent times,” and the Second Coming is fast approaching. Though ongoing, the bishops serving over the decades could not deny the fruits born of these supposed apparitions. After thorough investigation, Bishop Hector Cardelli of San Nicolas declared that the apparitions are “supernatural” and “worthy of belief” in 2016. From “Eva” to “Ave” // Mother of All the Living In the original Hebrew, Adam names Woman, “Eva” as she is the “mother of all the living.” In many ways our faith assures us that Mary is “New Eve,” the supernatural mother of all the living. These apparitions of Our Lady around the globe and throughout the centuries are no exception. Her message—no matter the time or place—is the same for all her children: personal conversion. Though sin came into the world through Eva, Mary’s love and faithfulness allows for great transformation and conversion. With the sin of “Eva” amended, we find eternal life and sing forever, “Ave” in gratitude to Our Redeemer and His Mother. What are some of your favorite approved Marian apparitions from around the world? Let us know in the comments below!   [bctt tweet="Marian Apparitions from Around the World #BISblog //" via="no"] MARY SHOWS US THE WAY Just as a mother might pass on a beloved family tradition to her daughters, Mary shares the recipe for growing in virtue with us. This study on Mary's Virtues will breathe new life into your everyday, beginning right in Mary's home. GET HOME STUDY

As the academic year comes to a close, it can feel like we are on the cusp of something new, long after we find ourselves counting down the days until summer vacation. New seasons, opportunities, jobs, relationships, and responsibilities call us into scenarios we may have never imagined, or perhaps, have dreamt about for years. Catholic Prayers for New Beginnings Wherever you find yourself on the spectrum of new beginnings, I pray that these words of blessing during times of change, breathe life into your season. A Prayer for a New Season Dear Heavenly Father, please be with me, I pray, as I move on from the old to the new. The joy, memories, and hardships of the last season of my life are behind me. Help me to leave them there, Lord, and not carry them with me into this new season. Help me to let go of all hurts, anger, and grudges, and see all people as the blessing they are, Your children. Thank You, Lord, for this opportunity to begin this new adventure with You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. (source) Blessing for a New Home O heavenly Father, Almighty God, we humbly beseech Thee to bless and sanctify this house and all who dwell therein and everything else in it, and do Thou vouchsafe to fill it with all good things; grant to them, O Lord, the abundance of heavenly blessings and from the richness of the earth every substance necessary for life, and finally direct their desires to the fruits of Thy mercy. At our entrance, therefore, deign to bless and sanctify this house as Thou didst deign to bless the house of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob; and may the angels of Thy light, dwelling within the walk of this house, protect it and those who dwell therein. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Translated by Most Reverend J. H. Schlarman Bishop of Peoria) Prayer for a New Job Blessed St. Joseph, your task as a guardian of the Redeemer and a protector of Virgin Mary made you the head of the Holy Family and the administrator of its material possessions. Today, I am also looking for work, and I am calling on you, as a powerful mediator who, with the help of your spouse, defend me before your Son, to help me find a way to live off the fruits of my work. Teach me how to be active in my search, open to new opportunities, honest in my relations, reasonable in my demands, determined in fulfilling all of my obligations. St. Joseph of Good Hope, pray for me, protect me, guide me and keep my hopes up. Amen. (source) Novena for New Friendship Opening Prayer // Holy God, Mighty God, Benevolent Creator and Lover of All Life, I praise You and I Glorify You! Your beloved Son has called me “friend!” As I quietly come to You to contemplate the great gift of His gracious friendship to me, please calm my mind and still my body. Bring me to a deep awareness, O My Father in Heaven, of Your presence to me right here, right now . . . . above me, below me, behind me, before me, around me, beside me, within me. I lovingly thank You for Your infinite goodness to me, in particularly today in the gifts of Jesus’s friendship with me, and what an example He has given to me for my friendship with others. I thank you for the examples the Saints have given me in the ways and blessings of holy friendship. I ask You to grant me the gift of holy friendships in my life, with individuals who will walk faithfully side by side and arm in arm with me, back to You, as we travel our pilgrim journeys on this earth together. Amen. (source) Morning Prayer // Prayer for a New Day Gracious God, Thank you for the gift of today. Refresh me. Invite me to discover your presence In each person that I meet And every event that I encounter. Teach me when to speak and when to listen When to ponder and when to share. In moments of challenge and decision Attune my heart to the whisperings of your Wisdom. As I undertake ordinary and unnoticed tasks, Gift me with simple joy. When my day goes well, may I rejoice. When it grows difficult, surprise me with New possibilities. When life is overwhelming, call me to Sabbath moments To restore your Peace and Harmony. May my living today reveal your Goodness. (source) Prayer for a Newborn/Newly Adopted Baby God, our Creator, cherish this child. Jesus, our Savior; protect him/her. Holy Spirit, our comforter, strengthen him/her. or: Source of all blessings, protector of infants, look with favor on this child, N. Hold him/her gently in your hands. When he/she is reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, bring him/her into the Church, there to share in your kingdom and with us to bless your name forever. We ask this through Christ our Lord. R/. Amen The parents trace the sign of the cross on the child's forehead. N., may the Lord Jesus, who loved children, bless you and keep you in his love, now and forever. R/. Amen (source) Pope Francis’ Springtime Prayer for Farmers Eternal Father, maker of heaven and earth, we bless you and give you glory. Bless this seed, and make it fruitful. Look upon our work this season, and grant that the seeds we plant will produce plentiful crops, providing work and food for many. In your love, give us favorable weather throughout this growing season. Make us truly grateful for all our gifts, and willing to share our goods and talents with others, especially those without adequate food. All praise and glory are yours, Almighty Father, through your son Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. What season do you find yourself beginning at this time? What fruit might the Lord be cultivating in you?   [bctt tweet="Catholic Prayers for New Beginnings #BISblog //" via="no"]

Jesus said:“My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. // John 10:27 Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

My husband and I were only four months into our marriage when we suffered our first miscarriage. We had so many hopes and so much excitement. After one week of joy, the bleeding began. As I navigated this brand new season of grief in my life–one that involved death in my own body–I clung to the words a priest-friend sent me when he heard the news of our loss. He wrote, “You are a mother… the tiny life is with God now and will forever call you ‘mother.’” These words held me, as I longed to hold my child. From Now On, Always a Mother Although my baby was no longer alive, the gift of motherhood which had been given to me was not taken away. Instead, my new, motherly heart remained. My body and mind also testified to this truth. So much so that, on the one year anniversary, I began to grieve subconsciously! I had not yet realized that the day of this first loss had been carved in my memory. My body knew it was time to grieve even without me having to reach for my calendar. Mothers do not forget. We remember the losses, the milestones, the little things. This is why, often, Mother’s Day can be filled both with joys and with sorrows. Because we both mother and we grieve. My First Mother’s Day In the months after this first miscarriage, Mother’s Day crept around. I remember fearing this day and wishing we could just skip it all together. A dear friend, who also knew the pain of pregnancy loss, sent my husband a monetary gift. She asked that he buy me flowers on her behalf for Mother’s Day. I had no idea about this beautiful, thoughtful gesture until the day I was dreading finally came. Then, in waltzed my husband with two gigantic bouquets of flowers, one bunch from him and one from my friend. We danced and we rejoiced as he recognized me as a mother; the mother of our unborn baby now with Jesus. I was expecting a day full of pain and grief. But instead, my heart was turned upwards to think of Heaven and so I was in turn filled with joy and gratitude. The reality of our circumstance and the suffering of miscarriage could not change what had already come into existence. The soul of our baby continues to exist even after death. Truly, therefore, I was still a mother. I will always be the mother of these two souls whom I pray to one day meet in Heaven when I also meet Him face to face, and also His Mother. For many of us, Mother’s Day is not a “cut and dry” happy day of bliss or solely one of sorrow. It might even look differently each year–one happier than the next or some filled with more sorrow than anticipated.     The Heart of Mary Perhaps it would do us good, sisters, to see that our Mother’s Day–and our identity as mothers– is more like Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart: covered both with flowers and a sword. There is beauty, there is gratitude, there is love overflowing from our motherly hearts. But there is also profound grief. This cannot be done away with; rather, we must learn to embrace it. The grief is, in fact, a sign that we have loved. [bctt tweet="There is beauty and love overflowing from our motherly hearts. But there is also profound grief. This cannot be done away with; rather, we must learn to embrace it. The grief is, in fact, a sign that we have loved. #BISblog //" via="no"] Whether a mother has lost her child through miscarriage, still-birth, a horrible illness in the early years of life, an accident in adolescence, through a violent crime or death in the stillness of the night, a sword has pierced her heart and she can never be the same. This does not mean that she will never know profound joy again. It means that her joys will taste sweeter because the grief and suffering have made way for a more attuned heart, a more refined sight. And she will see that life is not made unbearable by the loved ones we have lost and now grieve for. But instead, our lives are made all the more full and beautiful because we have made space for others and have grown to love in a way that is stronger than death (see Song of Solomon 8:6). We love our children and death cannot stop our love. Our lives are turned upside down, yes, but from the other side, we gain new vision and a new heart–one more like Hers. She was the perfect mother who did not love her Son until the Cross but loved Him all the way through death and into the Resurrection. She never stopped loving. How Can I Celebrate Mother’s Day? As we gather with our families or simply celebrate at home with our spouse, take a moment this Mother’s Day to give thanks. Remember that even if the day may bring heartache or difficult memories, it is because of one reason: you were entrusted with a life; one that, from the moment of its creation, will no longer cease to exist even after death. Recognizing the magnitude of this gift allows us to bow in awe of the Lord’s goodness, even in our grief. I invite you, sister, if your Mother’s Day is also marred in its beauty, to turn to Our Lady, especially on this day. Allow her Immaculate Heart to console you. Take time to pray a Rosary or make a shorter prayer of devotion to her Sorrows. Lastly, if there is a woman in your life whom you know also struggles on Mother’s Day because of her own story of grief, perhaps you may go out of your way to pay her a holy visit, bring her some flowers, send her a sweet gift, or simply write her a message. Remind her that she is still a mother, despite her loss. Her grief is the evidence that she has loved and still does. How will you celebrate this Mother’s Day together with our Mother Mary?   [bctt tweet="To Mother and to Grieve #BISblog //" via="no"] MARY SHOWS US THE WAY Just as a mother might pass on a beloved family tradition to her daughters, Mary shares the recipe for growing in virtue with us. This study on Mary's Virtues will breathe new life into your everyday, beginning right in Mary's home. GET HOME STUDY

Stress is a normal part of life. It can be difficult to manage it, but thankfully there are many verses from the Bible that offer guidance on how to deal with stress and related issues. Scripture Verses to Pray When You're Stressed You might not associate stress with the Bible, but the Word actually contains plenty of examples of people dealing with it. “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” // Exodus 14:14 This Bible verse tells us that even when things seem difficult, God is on our side and will help us through whatever challenges come our way. “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fall.” //Psalm 55:22 When we have stressors weighing us down, it can seem like everything is falling apart around us. This Scripture verse reminds us that God is always there to help us and that we can put our trust in Him. “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” //Psalm 27:1 This verse reminds us that no matter what stressors come into our lives, God will always be with us. We can find strength in Him during difficult times. “Be still, and know that I am God.” //Psalm 46:11 This verse is about learning how to find peace in the midst of stress. When we are feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to take a step back and just breathe. This verse reminds us that God is always with us and that we can find solace in Him. “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden light.” //Matthew 11:28-30 This verse is about Jesus offering us rest. When we are stressed out, it can be difficult to find peace. This verse reminds us that Jesus is there for us and offers us the peace that we need. “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.” //Matthew 6:34 This verse tells us not to stress about tomorrow, because worrying will not help anything. We should focus on today instead of getting stressed out over the future. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” //John 14:27 In this verse, John is telling us that Jesus is our peace. When stressors are weighing us down, we can find calmness in knowing that God gives us His own peace of mind and serenity to get through whatever challenges come our way. “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?” //Romans 8:32 This verse reminds us that God loves and cares for His children. We can put our stress in perspective, knowing that whatever happens to us, we are always loved by Him. “Be anxious about nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” //Philippians 4:6 This Bible verse tells us that instead of worrying over what could happen or fearing the future, it's better just to pray about issues as they come up because praying helps relieve stress. Struggling with Stress Stress can be a debilitating feeling that keeps us from being our best selves. When stress becomes overwhelming, these Bible verses (and others) can help you find peace and serenity again. With the right perspective on stress through praying or seeking out God, we may be able to make stress less of an issue for ourselves. It’s worth noting that, for some, stress can lead to unhealthy addictions and substance abuse. Both a strong faith and professional treatment can help you heal. Remembering that God is always with us can be a tremendous source of comfort and hope. What's your favorite Scripture verse to pray when you're stressed?   Heidi Bitsoli has been a content writer with Sunshine Behavioral Health since 2019, where she researches and writes articles, guides, and blog posts on mental health and addiction. Prior to that, she wrote extensively on health, medicine, business, and human interest topics for a variety of clients. Her writings have appeared in numerous university publications, magazines, newspapers, and websites. She has a degree in English from Lake Superior State University in northern Michigan. A lifelong lover of learning, she enjoys researching and writing about the complexities of mental health.
   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

Coffee and conversation: both blessings to behold. Together, they can create community. I recall such good conversations over coffee in college: with my favorite English professor, with my sister and dear friend (scones included, of course!), and with our Bible study group. There’s something about gathering for a warm cuppa that creates warm conversation. Crucial Conversations My favorite coffee-and-conversation memory is with my grandpa. He loved coffee, too. We would leisurely chat about current events, history tidbits, and family lore, one sip at a time. It wasn’t just grabbing a cup of coffee together. It was cultivating meaningful memories. How important it is to take time for good conversation with family, friends, and co-workers alike, especially in our current times. We should take time to check in with colleagues amid hectic deadlines or text or call a friend to chat. We should have that blessed conversation with a loved one who needs some quality time, discussing ancestral history and other interesting topics of mutual interest. That time is precious, for you will uncover knowledge about the other person—and yourself—and maybe even gain greater understanding of family dynamics and heirlooms alike. Presence and Prioritizing Relationships As Saint Francis de Sales put it: To take the air, to go for a stroll, to enjoy a friendly chat, … are such honest diversions that the only thing needed to utilize them well is simple prudence, which gives to all things their rank, time, place and measure. I think what this eminent Saint and Doctor of the Church means is that “a friendly chat” should be enjoyed because of the company it includes. Prudence aids us in discerning who most needs that time of conversation on any given day, time, and place. Perhaps some need all three, as “The Gentleman Saint” noted: fresh air, a stroll, and a good chat. Pray that you can know who that is and respond accordingly. Good conversation may seem like a simple thing but it is truly a necessary part of Christian life. Faith and fellowship go hand in hand. Through speech, we can help others work out a problem or what is causing them to worry or focus on what brings them joy... and everything in between. Cultivating Consistent Chats Practically, how can we add more chats into a life, with or without coffee? Set a time and place. Have a favorite coffee shop? Text a friend and meet. Need to meal plan? Invite your sister who needs to do so, too, and plan together. Have to get your walk in? Call a companion and set out. In need of more family time? Schedule a Sunday dinner for a good meal and, most of all, conversation. Bring a Bible or book or quote of the day. Delve into Scripture while you enjoy your favorite cold brew, latte, or mocha with friends, neighbors, or church group. Or talk about a good read. What speaks to you and where you all are in your life circumstances? What Saint quote inspires you of late? Insights will abound as the conversation flows. Discern what to discuss. What is a topic this person needs to discuss? Pray about it beforehand. Is it a fun diversion, like paint colors or decorating ideas or the latest must-try recipe or must-see show or movie? Or it is something more serious: heartfelt advice on a subject of concern? Sometimes it could and should mean praying together. Also, think of questions you’d like to ask. Maybe you’ve always wanted to know the story behind cherished religious art in your grandparents’ home. Why do they love it? Maybe it’s why you love it, too. Is there a story about a relative that is worthy of retelling? Could the other person offer a new perspective or needed advice to you? Delve deep and you will be blessed. Most of all, focus on the company. As Pope Saint John Paul II put it in his “Letter to Women”: women acknowledge the person, because they see persons with their hearts. Whether you are chatting over coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, or walking and talking out on your favorite jaunt, or at your kitchen table enjoying a homemade meal or treat, whether with friends or family, the persons before you are of supreme importance. God’s daughters or sons are in front of you and need your time and attention at that moment. That knowledge transforms a simple chat into something truly blessed. What's your favorite way to cultivate conversation and community? What challenges have you faced in your efforts to do so?   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.
   [bctt tweet="Go Ahead, Take the Time for Talking #BISblog //" via="no"]

“Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” // John 21:16 Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

Tolkien’s short but poignant work "Leaf by Niggle" offers fascinating insights into the intersection of our personal and professional lives. Niggle’s vocation involves painting leaves. But he battles against his own inertia as various chores and inconveniences keep him from finishing the painting to his satisfaction. When Niggle passes from this life, he discovers that the leaves he was painting are, in fact, embedded in lush forests, mountains and streams of Heaven. Tolkien's theory of vocation concludes fittingly: a worthy vocation contributes not only to financial well-being but ultimately to new creation. How might this change the way we see our work as spiritual calling? The Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker The feast of Saint Joseph the Worker is a powerful reminder of the real purpose of our work. In response to “May Day,” Pope Pius XII instituted the feast in the 1950s to encourage devotion to Saint Joseph, in whom he saw a perfect model for dignifying human work. When God created Adam and Eve, He made them imago dei (in the image of God). Being image-bearers means reflecting what God is like. Throughout the creation account, we see God at work: cultivating, creating, caring, and forming. When Adam sinned, the ground was cursed. But it was a curse eventually seasoned with grace. Our carnal nature looks to work to fulfill us but grace rescues us from the logic of profit, from the fever of consuming. Grace allows work to form us, mold us, and mature us. Grace fuels communal love. By cultivating the garden, Adam fed and clothed his family. The produce of the land was to be shared with the poor, the orphan, and the widow. From Saint Joseph, we learn how the ultimate act of our labor is love. And love gives, it suffers, it sanctifies work. The Dignity of Labor Labor Day is a much-needed break from what we refer to as our "jobs." We take time to recuperate and recreate. We sleep a little longer. And while that is all good, for Christians, Labor Day invites us to deepen our understanding of labor in light of the Gospel. Work has changed considerably since the Industrial Revolution. With much advancement in technology, it is no secret that the next generation describes a time when machines will completely take over man’s brains... possibly also their hands. Man will act as a substitute machine and life will be no more than humanoid... unless we know what man (woman) is... unless we know where the dignity of our work comes from. During World War II, the future Pope Saint John Paul II worked in a limestone quarry. In his poem titled “The Quarry” he speaks deeply of his anguish, his daily struggles, and how the temptation to give in to anger, resentment, and despair lurks within our workplaces each day. By the sweat of his brow and tears down his cheeks, this heroic worker taught us why we labor and where our dignity comes from: not in the size of our paychecks or the weight of our accolades, but simply as children of God. The dignity of our labor flows from our innate humanness, from the command of God to join Him in His creative endeavors. In his encyclical Laborem Exercens (On Human Work) he wrote: …the basis for determining the value of human work is not primarily the kind of work being done but the fact that the one who is doing it is a person… Think about how many people worldwide are victims of slave labor or trapped under work that enslaves? How many have turned this great gift into a seductive and merciless idol? The Heart of Our Labor In choosing Saint Joseph as the patron Saint of workers, the Church draws us to the heart of our labor. It is never self-serving or self-protecting. It is always outpouring and overflowing. Work united to Christ is redemptive (see CCC 2427) and Saint Joseph shows us how. The humble carpenter of Nazareth was dedicated, not addicted. He did not seek an identity through his work. He was not a workaholic. He sweated, got dirty, and even experienced tedium at times; but because He was in communion with Christ, His work became an expression of worship, a channel of love, and a window through which the Light of the World could shine. When Mundane is Meaningful A close friend recently gave birth to twins. Her typical day now includes waking up at dawn, diapering and feeding one child while clothing another, doing loads of laundry, cooking and putting the kids to bed all before plunging into bed herself, exhausted. Beneath that exhaustion is deep lament. She gave up a high paying job. Her work now is difficult and repetitive and, in some ways, unrewarding. She lives in a cycle of mundane tasks. She feels trapped. She suffers silently. Perhaps you are in a place where the word "ordinary" immediately indicates purposelessness, a sense of being undone? Perhaps work for you feels like punishment, something you cannot escape, a necessary evil you must endure to gain something you desire? In her book, Glimpses of Grace, Gloria Furman writes, “Theology is for homemakers who need to know who God is, who they are, and what this mundane life is all about.” Isn’t our biggest fear as homemakers found in feelings of not being relevant? We need faith like Saint Joseph to trust that God doesn’t merely “know what’s best for us,” but that He is what’s best for us no matter what our circumstances are. The One for Whom We Work God is present as we unload the dishwasher or balance the budget. God sees little things like changing diapers or cooking meals. God uses our hands, our feet, and our homes as spheres of His influence. God chisels us through ordinary moments to conform us into Christ likeness. We exist in the "already, but not yet" time in God's redemptive history. We desperately need the Holy Spirit to see with new eyes and hearts for the monotonous aspects of our daily work. We need new vision to embrace work not just as a means for money, but as a mission to ask: In my daily interaction with my work, how can I emerge a better person? How can I become more attentive to my family, my next door neighbor? In Christ Alone Isn’t it remarkable that there are no written words about the daily ins-and-outs of Saint Joseph’s carpentry business? Yet we know that Saint Joseph was a good steward of the earth, family, and neighbor. He sacrificed. He persevered. He labored in love. Together with Mary, he shared a single common center of attention: Christ. Outside of Christ all our impressive labors, careers, bank accounts, reputations, and legacies are grand nothings. But in Christ, even the most tedious toil is reversed and redeemed. In Christ, there is hope for those who are unrecognized, those battling daily chores, those abused at work, those for whom no room is given for advancement or opportunity to learn. In Christ alone is true rest. And while we, with creation, groan for a world that’s coming, we live in the knowledge that we don’t have to labor and overcome by our own strength. What Niggle discovered after his life, we discover now: that Christ has redeemed work for all humanity. He is alive and making all things new. In His Resurrection we can live in the eternal now. We can turn to Saint Joseph, under whose patronage and intercession we are being renewed, being made a "new creation."   [bctt tweet="Saint Joseph the Worker + the Meaningful Mundane #BISblog //" via="no"]   This post contains affiliate links. Thanks so much for supporting the ministry of Blessed is She!

"I'm afraid of making the wrong decision." "I just don't know what God wants me to do." "Which way is God's will for me? And what happens if I 'miss it'?" If you're striving to live a life for and with the Lord, chances are you have thought or expressed similar sentiments. It is a common question in the Christian life: what does God want? And in our eagerness to obey Him and our sincere desire to serve Him, we can find ourselves rather stuck when facing any sort of decision. We fear that we will lose relationship with the Lord if we choose a lesser good, or that we will "miss" our mission, or that God will be disappointed if we choose the "wrong" breakfast. The Trap of Stuck-ness Saint Francis de Sales often wrote about a sly tactic of the devil. He expressed that a soul in love with God may often be tempted to be so overly-concerned with the aforementioned questions that it remains paralyzed. C.S. Lewis often quipped that the enemy has no need to make the faithful Christian "evil," just to keep them busy and preoccupied with good things. Mother Angelica was fond of bluntly reminding us that God's will is to choose the good and embrace the present moment. Those holy men and women who have gone before us understood what it means to live confidently in the merciful love of Jesus. They also understood the virtue of prudence. An Underrated Cardinal Virtue The Catechism of the Catholic Church 1806 states: Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it... It is not to be confused with timidity or fear, nor with duplicity or dissimulation. It is called auriga virtutum (the charioteer of the virtues); it guides the other virtues by setting rule and measure. Prudence is the "charioteer of the virtues" and we are offered this virtue through our Baptism and life in grace. It is what helps us not only discern what is morally right and what the Lord is calling us to in a given circumstance, it also helps us move forward in confidence and trust. So how can we learn more about this secret-weapon virtue, and how can we come to live it? A Treatise on Prudence When I first saw that Fr. Gregory Pine, OP was releasing a book with OSV about prudence, I was thrilled because I always benefit from his commentary on Pints with Aquinas. I appreciate his clear mastery of Thomistic philosophy which he presents covered with a flood of spiritual wisdom and encouragement. He's a teacher, and I always learn from him. This book arrived at the perfect time—one in which my husband and I are discerning a few major life decisions and navigating challenging circumstances. I was tempted toward stuck-ness. As I read through this book, I found myself reading section after section aloud to my husband. Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly has already born great fruit in our conversations and hearts. Academic and Approachable Prudence brings the heat when it comes to theology and philosophy. I loved the deep dive Fr. Gregory takes to explain what prudence is and what it is not. He examines freedom, intellect and will, and conscience. He clearly defines terms that can be easily misunderstood or misconstrued. He walks us through the assent our souls take to the good when we choose the good (even in seemingly obvious situations like not cheating on a test). It is a fascinating breakdown of the movement of grace in our souls. He purely teaches what the Church teaches, which, as you can imagine, is a great wealth of grace. But Father does not leave us simply with an academic exploration of the virtue, for the virtue itself is meant to motivate us toward holy action. And he helps with the concrete application. Alongside the insightful information about the virtue, Father provides charts that help us understand the movements of the human intellect and will and the process of prudence. He treats the human condition with both honesty and compassion, and masterfully points out our potential pitfalls when exercising prudence. The entire book is an invitation into prayer and self-reflection with God. Each chapter is titled as a question—one we should be asking ourselves when facing a decision. We are called to apply the wisdom of the Word, the Church, and the Saints to our own lives. Father points us directly to the One Who does "direct our paths" (see Proverbs 3:6). Each chapter ends with questions for reflection that assist us in applying the material to our own lives. First-Hand Fruit As I read through Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly, I noticed something: it drove me to prayer. After reading a section that stretched my mind and gifted me new understanding, I would immediately desire to talk to God about it in relation to those areas in which I am in particular need of prudence. This book has not remained stagnant in my life but has helped me put words to doubts, clarity to confusion, and confidence to uncertainty. We are all in great need of prudence, and this 166-page book from Father Gregory provides the path. Have you read this book yet? Are you in need of some direction in this aspect of your soul?   [bctt tweet="BIS Reads // Prudence by Fr. Gregory Pine, OP #BISblog //" via="no"]

Have you ever heard of a rule of life? It’s a rhythm that sets the tone and pace of your days to keep your heart and calendar aligned with your priorities. Without a plan I’ve found it’s difficult to keep the “one thing” the main thing (see Luke 10:22). I can so easily get swept away by busyness (or boredom) and fail to do the things that both mean the most to me and make for a beautiful life. If you, too, desire more fruitful days and a more peaceful mind, let me introduce you to the genius (and gorgeous) little book that helped me to make a rule and follow its rhythm all year long. Why Praying + Planning is Better than Just Planning I used to be a person that made lists and scrawled notes haphazardly: in the Notes app in my phone, my prayer journal, scraps of paper, and text messages to myself (yes, really). I knew I needed to organize my thoughts and life, but simply getting them down wasn’t enough. I needed a single place to design my schedule, make to-do lists, and keep myself accountable to the things the Lord was asking me to do. You see, it wasn’t only my work and domestic duties that needed organization, but my spiritual life, too. Enter the Blessed is She liturgical planner to solve all of my scattered ways. This year, a good and holy priest friend recommended that I make a desert day every month, so I turned to my planner to mark off one Saturday a month. With the date set (in pen!), I’ve been able to commit to going into the desert–or, in my case, a Poor Clare monastery–to spend the day with Jesus in silence and the Blessed Sacrament. Similarly, for the past few years I attempted to go to Confession once a week. But without any planning or preparation, it ended up being every couple of weeks at best. Not anymore. Every Friday, I schedule in receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation right after daily Mass. Not only have I been able to make a plan for my prayer life, the planner itself has become a part of my prayer life. Because in addition to discerning and jotting down my daily and monthly commitments, I am inspired by the Scripture verses and Saint quotes on every page and the prayer prompt each month allows me to move from my head to my heart. [elementor-template id="678606"] He Thirsts for You // The 2022-2023 Catholic Planner This year’s Blessed is She liturgical planner is really an expression of my heart’s devotion. Every year, we pray and ask the Lord His desires, His hopes for Blessed is She–and for me. At a revival night in Milwaukee last June, the Lord spoke a life-changing grace into my heart about water. A deep and living word that fueled my prayer for months. I suddenly became aware of the stream of water flowing through the story of salvation, from Genesis to Revelation. Water was everywhere! And water communicated the overflowing healing love and mercy of God and quenched the deepest desires of my seemingly insatiable heart. The profoundly beautiful image of water flowing from the temple in Ezekiel 47 captured my imagination in prayer and from it, the RISE retreat was birthed. That Living Water became the inspiration for and understanding of the Spirit’s movement in and through Blessed is She. As I brought my own thirst to Jesus in prayer, I discovered the depths of His thirst for me, for all of us. From the Cross, Jesus cried out, “I thirst” and in that desperate plea He was calling out for the love of every single human soul, of your soul. Hence, the name of this year’s planner: He Thirsts for You. It is my hope that every hand-selected Scripture, every wise word from one of our Saintly brothers and sisters would saturate the soil of your heart and nourish even the hardest or most barren places. That you would spend time with Jesus every month sharing this deep thirst within with Him, and satisfy His eternal thirst for you. Don’t simply use this planner to schedule your days, pray with this planner to change your life. A Size for Every Scenario We’ve designed the original big, versatile mini, and stylish perfect-bound planner to fit any lifestyle, but the heart of each remains the same–to help you to encounter the Living Water and satisfy the thirst of the One Who made you and saves you. 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

I tossed and turned in bed, feeling awfully discouraged and a bit numb. Intellectually, I knew the Lord was there, but my heart told me differently. He seemed woefully distant and my heart felt completely alone–especially here in the dark of night. Yet instead of ignoring or simply wallowing in the feeling as I had done a thousand times before, I directed it to Him. “Lord, where are you?” my heart called dejectedly. No earth-shattering answer immediately came to me, no booming voice rang through the night; but as I fought against insomnia, I became aware of a song floating through my mind. It was a hymn from my youth–a rather annoying hymn, I thought irritably. “I will bless the Lord Who gives me counsel / Who even at night instructs my heart.” The lyrics broke through my mood and struck a chord. Who even at night is right here. The Lord was listening. And He was telling me–specifically, in a way He knew I’d recognize–that He was right here with me. Closer than my own breath. Are We Really Alone? In my experience, believing we are alone is the most convincing lie that Satan likes to tell, and fear is the biggest way he tries to trap us and keep us from growing in relationship with God. We fear facing our wounds, memories, sin, and shame. We fear discerning a decision or making the wrong decision. We think we are the only one who have not connected deeply with a faith community, the only one who struggles with prayer, the only one who feels angry at or forgotten by the Lord, or the only one who can’t seem to hear God’s voice. My grace-filled moment of encounter with the Lord that one night, along with many other small moments, have become irrefutable evidence against these lies. These graces have continually revealed God’s relentless pursuit of me as His beloved–even in moments I don’t necessarily feel it or believe it. Nothing has clarified and reinforced this absolute truth more intimately than the 8 weeks I spent journeying through The Well Mentorship Program in August of 2020 with some dear friends from the Blessed is She team. Since then, I have had the privilege of helping guide more than 80 women along the same journey of encounter to discover how fervently and personally God is pursuing their own hearts. Through the Well, I’ve watched countless women experience healing and freedom from these same lies and fears as they are exposed to God’s light. I’ve witnessed women’s hearts and souls gain new spiritual sight through undeniable, personal experiences of God’s lasting truth and particular love for them. It has been the most incredible gift to my heart to not only experience this freedom for myself, but watch other women discover the same–and it’s a gift I cannot help but desire for every single woman in the entire world. What is The Well? The Well is an 8-week online program dedicated to leading you through an intentional, personalized encounter with the Living God. The Well helps to dismantle your misconceptions about God, prayer, and your own identity and worth–rebuilding a firm foundation of real intimacy, personal connection in prayer, and authentic identity. This happens in several ways through: the guidance of your mentor intentional community the wisdom of the Saints the Catechism and Church documents, and your own experience in the weekly Prayer Practices. The Well is not just another self-help program; it’s truly about transformational intimacy + identity with the Lord! Who is the Well for? The Well Mentorship is for any woman age 18+ who desires to grow in relationship with God. The Holy Spirit knits together each small group with divine wisdom and detail. Hundreds of women of all ages, stages, and vocations have participated in The Well, made lifelong friends, and had their lives completely transformed! You can read some of their incredible testimonies below. What’s the Format Like? When you sign up for your particular date and time option, you’ll first get a confirmation email. Once your section of ten women is full, your facilitator will send you a welcome email with a schedule, session Zoom link, and calendar link to sign up for your 30-minute one-on-one mentorship call with your facilitator! More specifics: There are 8 online sessions total, 1 per week (you might take a short break if there’s a holiday!). Live sessions are on Zoom, last 1 hour and 45 minutes, and are recorded for individual use. You’ll receive a special workbook to store up your takeaways and refer back to after The Well. Sessions include small group sharing, mentor feedback, Scripture time, teaching, and guided prayer. There’s a Prayer Practice every week to help you personally experience what you’ve learned. You’ll have access to a private online group to connect with your small group throughout the week, plus a prayer partner as an extra layer of community! Who are the Facilitators? Your facilitators are women of deep prayer and discernment with gifts of guidance and mentorship. With God’s grace, we do our best every day to really practice what we preach, and help you discern what God thinks is best for you, not just what we think is best! Beth Davis is the creator and mastermind of The Well Mentorship! She speaks, writes, and leads retreats about Jesus, and is especially passionate about teaching women how to develop an intimate relationship with the Lord. She has over 15 years of experience guiding and mentoring women in youth ministry and as the Director of Ministry Advancement for Blessed is She. Claire Dwyer has a deep love of learning about the Catholic Faith, and she loves to share that wealth of knowledge with other women to help transform their lives through practical teaching and profound insights. She is a devoted wife and mom of six, celebrated author of This Present Paradise, and editor for spiritualdirection.com. Megan Hjelmstad has a huge heart for helping women discover and live out of their authentic identity as God’s beloved. She’s a wife, mom, writer, and speaker who loves to connect on a heart level with women. Megan has spent the past 15 years leading, guiding, and mentoring souls as an Army officer, women’s ministry leader, and Blessed is She team member. What Women Say About the Well Not only have I had my prayer life transformed through The Well, but countless other women have found deeper relationship with the Lord and more authentic community, too. Here's what they have to say. "The Well was just what I needed to begin again. It gave me structure while encouraging intimate conversations with our Lord. I loved the wisdom/advice Beth (and the Holy Spirit) would offer during the small group and learned so much from hearing her responses to the other women in our group. It was a beautiful experience and I would highly recommend it." // "Honestly, I'm convinced I'll be unpacking the graces for years to come. In a particular way my heart was especially docile, just in a very exhausted, vulnerable place, and so much of the Well spoke right into that. I do also think that the steady encouragement, the accountability of a group, and teachings that are clear and convicted were indispensable." // "Where to begin?! Besides learning a lot about our faith I literally felt bonds of pain hurt fear loosen via the prayer and practice. I cried a lot ! But as I learned from Megan these were tears of consolation. The truth that God loves me overwhelms me in such a way I don’t want to ever stray away. It was an incredible journey for me." // "I loved the authentic community that formed, and the graces from God our leader nudged us to acknowledge and accept. Wherever I was day-to-day, I felt like I could bring my authentic self to this group of women without judgement and be received with love and compassion." Ready to dive in with the Lord? We can't wait to pray with you.   [bctt tweet="Meet Him at the Well #BISblog //" via="no"]

There are certain biblical characters who, without great detail and explanation of their lives, have captivated me through the written Word. One such holy man is Ananias. There are a few different Ananias’s mentioned throughout Scripture of varying degrees of holiness. I'm referring to the Ananias of Acts 9. Who Was Ananias? Ananias was a disciple of Jesus who lived in Damascus during the time of the persecution of Saul. Around the same time of Saul’s dramatic conversion experience, the Lord came to Ananias and informed him that he must seek out Saul and visit the Christian persecutor so that Ananias may give him back his sight. The Lord told Ananias that He told Saul in a dream that Ananias would do so. Ananias, after asking a few clarifying questions of God, did as God commanded him and restored Saul’s sight. Ananias of Damascus is only mentioned in this one chapter. And yet I believe there are volumes to be learned from his example. I believe that Ananias demonstrates the perfect model of anyone in ministry and service, and I believe he does this through his: docility, courage, and humility. Docility Ananias was open and receptive to the promptings of God in his life. When he heard the Lord calling him, Ananias responded with the genuine and surrendering response made so famous by Samuel: “Here I am, Lord.” Only someone who is docile to the Holy Spirit is able to discern the Lord’s call in this busy life and able to respond with such promptness and openness. Within ministry, I believe that docility and openness to the Lord is one of the greatest virtues we can foster. After all, our goal in ministry is to bring others to Jesus and not to ourselves. If we are not listening to His Word, letting Him speak through us, and giving the Spirit the space to work, then we are not truly bringing Jesus to other people. Courage Ananias was undoubtedly courageous. Earlier in the book of Acts, we learn that Saul was well-known for brutally persecuting the Christians of his time. At the beginning of Acts 9 we read that the very reason that Saul was traveling to Damascus was to do just that: persecute the Christians of the land. Saul was infamous among the Christians as someone to avoid. And yet, it is to this man—a man who could have easily killed Ananias—that the Lord called Ananias to minister. Ananias expressed his fear to the Lord in going to see Saul: Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to thy saints at Jerusalem… // Acts 9:13 And yet, when the Lord asked him to do this thing, Ananias did it. He trusted in the Lord, knowing that He would never leave him or let him down. To do this would require great courage on the part of Ananias. In ministry, we are going to be called to minister to those who disagree with us, who shame us, who make a bad name of us, and who even hurt us. But like Ananias, we can trust that where the Lord leads He also goes with. He will not leave us alone in the frightening and dangerous situations, but can bring great good out of it. We need only be courageous and trust Him. Humility Ananias is only mentioned in this one chapter of Acts of the Apostles. He performs the miracle of giving Saul back his sight. One miracle in one man’s life. And yet it begs the question: if Ananias had not been open to the Lord’s will, would we be missing a Saint that is as influential to all of Christianity as that of the great Saint Paul? Ananias’s service and renown might not seem that great, but without him, where would we be? Similarly, we never know who it is that we might encounter in our ministry. Maybe it is not our calling to become a world-famous preacher or evangelist (it most likely isn’t). But we never know what our small actions might, in turn, put in to action. If we can be humble enough to do our small parts well, then we can trust the Lord to turn everything in to His plan from there. As Mother Theresa so aptly put it, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” Learning Lowly Leadership Ananias is an underrated figure in the Bible. But I think we can all agree that, upon closer inspection, he has a lot to teach us. Without people like him all along the way, we wouldn’t be where we are now. I pray that you embrace an Ananias spirit in your ministry, and even in your daily life. You might only end up being mentioned once or twice, and you might never know who you make an impact on. That’s ok. Answer the call anyway. “Here I am, Lord.”   Gracie Muraski lives as a missionary in the beautiful Colorado mountains with her husband. She is passionate about writing, spreading the love of God, building friendships, and anything involving pasta. 
   [bctt tweet="An Ananias Spirit (+ Why Ministry Needs It) #BISblog //" via="no"]

O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You. Let His word dwell in us richly, sisters. Download your F R E E wallpapers right here --->>> Phone wallpaper Desktop wallpaper

Every Divine Mercy Sunday, I am filled with gratitude for the Gospel that is read at Mass. I have always deeply loved the Apostle Thomas. His exclamation to the other eleven (see John 11:26) after they questioned Jesus’ willingness to return to Judea where He had almost been stoned to death, paired with Thomas’ bold prayers in the Resurrection account (see John 20:24,28) won me over. My fondness for Thomas is also due to the fact that I identify with him. What’s There to Say about Thomas? He was devoted. He was maybe a bit fiery in his statements and quick to show his passion, but a chicken when it came down to the moment of standing by Christ on the Cross. During the first years of my conversion, I was on fire. I wanted to serve the Lord for the rest of my life–but it was my way or the highway! My prayers were often filled with great desires and big proclamations but I fell short when it came to fleeing from sin and bowing low in humility or handing over my plans to the Lord and trusting Him. When I think of Thomas, who had been more or less faithful to the similar degree of the others and yet was not accounted for when Jesus showed up to the party, I can almost feel the sting! I can understand and empathize with his prayer made in passion; he also likely felt sadness as his friends were blessed with Christ’s presence once more but he somehow missed the call. Why them and not me? Jesus Showed Up... But Where was Thomas? After the massive, history-changing, divine life-restoring ordeal of the Cross, the disciples–most of whom did not yet understand the immense mercy that had just been poured out on the whole world–met in fear, locked away somewhere (see John 20:19). Thomas was out and about. Maybe he was “hangry” and went out for a bite to eat or really needed to get some fresh air after being locked up in that room all day. All we know is that Thomas missed it. The Risen Lord showed up and he was not there. I know how much I would have stomped my feet and pouted if Jesus would have come into that room without me being there! Thomas then makes the bold statement: Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe. // John 20:24 It was a request and a prayer as much as it was a glaring declaration. Was Thomas just being stubborn or entitled? Could he really be so incredulous after seeing so many miracles? Could he doubt, even now, after hearing the declaration of truth made by his brothers: “We have seen the Lord!” (John 20:24). These very same brothers who were once filled with fear now confirmed the proclamation of the Magdalene (see John 20:18). I wonder if there was not more to this request. What was Thomas Really Seeking? I do not think Thomas was demanding a sign for the sign’s sake. I believe he was really seeking intimacy; demanding to be remembered, to be seen. His act of faith, “My Lord and my God!” arose immediately after Jesus came in their midst and addressed to Thomas a unique invitation. Our Lord used almost word for word the tri-fold prayer Thomas made just a week before (see John 20:27). The Gospel account does not relate that Thomas actually put his hands in the side of Christ, although the Carvaggio depiction is beautiful. One could infer, then, that Thomas’ act of profound faith came as a result of an experience. In that moment–in that exchange of words and silence–Thomas knew that Jesus knew him, saw him, heard his prayer and remembered him. What are We Seeking? This Divine Mercy Sunday, as we hear about the message of Our Lord to the polish Saint, Faustina, let us put ourselves in Thomas’ shoes (well, more like sandals). What would we demand of Jesus in order to believe that He is truly alive and well? Would it be about seeing Him and placing our hands in His wounds? Or, rather, would it be to know that He has heard every prayer we have ever prayed and that He has not forgotten about us? That one prayer that you have not even managed to say out loud but have kept as a hidden thought in your heart? He knows it and He remembers. Return to the rooms of fear, betrayal, and distrust in your life. Go to those places where you feel that the Lord has forgotten you, does not care for you, or does not know you in your depths. Go there and ask Jesus, Risen and Glorious in His Wounds, to speak to you the very same words of intimacy and invitation that He made to Thomas. From Doubt to Faith on this Divine Mercy Feast Thomas was dubbed “doubtful” but, in fact, he was filled with faith after this encounter with “Love and Mercy Itself” (Diary of St. Faustina, 1074). As we welcome Our Risen Lord into these places in our hearts, may we be ready to be astounded and to be transformed by His mercy. When we speak of mercy, we speak of a help that cannot be earned but is generously given; a gesture that is extravagant in its fruit and expansive in its scope. It is also immensely personal. The Lord, Who is all “tenderness and compassion” (see Joel 2:13), full of mercy and endless love, sees you. He knows you. May this encounter with the Risen Lord free us more deeply and bring us to greater faith. I invite you to take time this weekend to pray with this Gospel and discover the ways in which the Lord abounds in mercy towards you. Perhaps you may even consider availing yourself of the plenary indulgence that has become bound with this holy day. Take in all of His mercy today and always–it is for you!   [bctt tweet="On Thomas + Divine Mercy #BISblog //" via="no"]