Circular on Clarification Letter Regarding the Promotion of Devotion to God the Father

On two occasions the Episcopal Commission in Liturgy discussed the movement to promote devotion to God the Father.  The Commission is unanimous in commending the promoters for their zeal.

However, the Commission does not agree that there should be a liturgical feast in honor of God the Father.  Needless to say the day chosen by the group, which is the group, which is the Feast of the Transfiguration, is not consonant with the Liturgical norms.

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Holy Darkness

Friday is here again, and I didn't realize it until I looked at the calendar. I see this as a sign that I am enjoying what I am doing.

I am still in "solitude among people" but it has taken a new, entirely different meaning to me right now. One former classmate told me, "You're always alone!" 

Well I said, I am enjoying my solitude.

Then I paused for a while, and realized that maybe most of the time I am in solitude, but I am never alone. Yes, I am right, solitude has taken a new meaning to me. It's not dark in here anymore!

I have made a good bunch of friends this week, although I don't see them most of the day because of differences in schedule. My heart was just filled with happiness the moment I became aware that they are really my friends. I think you know how it feels when you just can't stop smiling.

I am not alone, knowing that my friends are just scattered around the campus.

But I just can't get along with some people who always wear their good frowning face. What have I done? To be honest, they cast darkness on my joy-filled heart. I hate it when my good mood is destroyed. I would just like to frown on them too. I just want to show them my disappointment.

Then I read The Imitation of Christ, and it was very fitting: You must be as ready to suffer as to rejoice (Book 3, Chapter 17). Then, I remember Mt 5:39 "Turn the other cheek" and immediately I received the "mandate" to be obedient to death, even if that death means death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). Lord, I will not disobey.

I am not alone. I might be in solitude most of the time, but that's a different thing. It's being alone with the Alone.

I am always at home, and alone with the Alone.

Little Mandate

I found the Little Mandate from the book Poustinia which I borrowed from a religious (consecrated) brother. I printed a copy of the Little Mandate and I posted it near the table where I do my school assignments, journaling and spiritual reading. It serves as a guide for me in living the life of Jesus wherever I am. I invite you to read the following with your heart and ask the Lord in your prayers how you could apply these in your life.

The Little Mandate by the Servant of God Catherine Doherty:

Arise — go! Sell all you possess. Give it directly, personally to the poor.

Take up My cross (their cross) and follow Me, going to the poor, being poor, being one with them, one with Me.

Little — be always little! Be simple, poor, childlike.

Preach the Gospel with your life — without compromise! Listen to the Spirit. He will lead you.

Do little things exceedingly well for love of Me.

Love... love... love, never counting the cost.

Go into the marketplace and stay with Me. Pray, fast. Pray always, fast.

Be hidden. Be a light to your neighbour’s feet. Go without fear into the depth of men’s hearts. I shall be with you.

Pray always. I will be your rest.

Br Simon of the Intercessors of the Lamb