"And so we use them for a kind of pleasure which can be called "fun." But it is not the creative kind of fun often connected with play; it is, rather, a shallow, distracting, greedy way of "having fun." And it is not by chance that it is that type of fun which can easily... Continue Reading →

Merciful God, We come to you on behalf of a broken people; we recognize that we are failing to care for and love your creation. We are both frightened by the things which might hurt us, and greedy for the pleasures of the world. Help us, we pray, to relax into the peace provided by... Continue Reading →

First reading and Psalm Deuteronomy 8:7-18 Psalm 96:1-9 Second reading 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Gospel Luke 17:11-19 Prayer: Gracious Lord, you who healed the ten of their leprosy, we pray that you would show us the same mercy and heal us of all of the ills that keep us from living lives which celebrate you, In... Continue Reading →

The Philokalia (Greek for Love of the Good) is a compilation of early Christian spirituality, particularly from the Eastern Church. This expansive work (four volumes each a few hundred pages) provides a basis for devotion for many within the Orthodox community. The various authors provide wonderful insight and wisdom on practically living out one's faith.... Continue Reading →

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice Philippians 4:4 1. I have observed many persons rejoicing, and saying one to another, "We have conquered; we have prevailed; the half of the fast is spent." But I exhort such persons not to rejoice on this account, that the half of the fast is... Continue Reading →

To James Hervey London, March 20, 1739 Dear Sir: The best return I can make for the kind freedom you use is to use the same to you. O may the God whom we serve sanctify it to us both and teach us the whole truth as it is in Jesus! You say you cannot... Continue Reading →

Born out of great personal tragedy "It Is Well with My Soul" has become a classic hymn of the Church, reminding us that even in our darkest hours we can rejoice in God. Horatio Spafford entered eternity Oct 16, 1888 When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,When sorrows like sea billows roll;Whatever my lot,... Continue Reading →

Acclaim To the Suffering ChristO Lord, You received affronts without number from Your blasphemers, yet each day You free captive souls from the grip of the ancient enemy. You did not avert Your face from the spittle of perfidy, yet You wash souls in saving waters. You accepted Your scourging without murmur, yet through your... Continue Reading →

First reading and Psalm Exodus 32:1-14 Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 Second reading Philippians 4:1-9 Gospel Matthew 22:1-14 Theme: We rejoice in the Lord always because of the great things for does for us. When we have sinned God has forgiven and instead of destroying us prepares a banquet for us. Prayer: O merciful Lord, while I... Continue Reading →

Thomas A Kempis' Imitation of Christ is true one of the greatest devotional books ever written. A perfect place to start for those unused to spiritual books and a work which one can come back to time and time again. The tile title truly sums up the book, Thomas calls the reader to focus on... Continue Reading →