tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48315492705294847542024-02-07T15:35:58.346-08:00Your Family Spiritual ConnectionJesseSPGhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08609711569724727631noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-87716030003018703952011-10-27T08:17:00.001-07:002011-10-27T08:43:49.432-07:002011 Nativity Sets Are In!All of our Nativity sets are in for the Advent and Christmas season. You can find some great deals on our large indoor and outdoor Nativity scenes. Like every year our Fontanini figurines and Nativity Sets are in and the collection is better than ever. Enhance your current Nativity scene or give the gift of a Fontanini Nativity set to a familily member or those newlyweds close to you. Take a look at our best deals on <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/indoor-nativity-scenes/2,1738.html">Nativity Sets </a>and for our best offers yet<a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2011-nativity-set-sale/2,2481.html"> click here</a>.<br /><br />Advent is approaching fast. Get prepared by shopping our <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/advent-wreaths/2,2370.html">Advent wreaths </a>and <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/advent-candles/2,2368.html">Advent candle </a>selections. A very popular item last year and again this year is our battery operated Advent candles. Keep your home and children safe from the fire of real candles and buy our battery operated Advent Candles. Also save from buying Advent candles in the years to come!<br /><br />St. Patrick's Guild has opened a sister store in the Mall of America called Irish Blessings. If your in the Twin City area check out the store at the Mall of America 101 N. Garden. Or shop their wide array of Irish Gifts, <a href="http://www.irishindeed.com/browse.cfm/claddagh-rings/2,625.html">Claddagh rings </a>and Irish Clothing at <a href="http://www.irishindeed.com/">www.irishindeed.com</a>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-72643428028785652902011-06-07T14:01:00.000-07:002011-06-07T14:11:18.253-07:00The New Third Edition of the Catholic Roman Missal available for Pre Order.Visit our website to pre order your new version or 3rd edition of the Roman Missal. With over six publishers to choose from you find just the right design and fit for your Church or Chapel. St. Patrick's Guild is offering competitive pricing on the the New Roman Missals that will be available in early October. Classic publishers like Catholic Book and Liturgical Press are offering several versions of the Roman Missal giving you a great selection to choose from. If you are interested in learning more about the 3rd Edition of the Roman Missal click here to view a video that explains what should be expected in the new version.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ncgaweb.com/webinar/Roman_Missal/lib/playback.html">Roman Missal Video</a><br /><br />Start shopping now online at St. Patrick's Guild for the New <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/new-3rd-ed.-roman-missals/2,2478.html">Roman Missal</a>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-31017718853217927572011-03-31T14:26:00.001-07:002011-03-31T14:47:42.843-07:00FREE First Communion Veil or Tie Clasp with $100 Purchase or MoreClick <a href="http://www.radiantretailapps.com/CustomerConnect/View.aspx/t_kpeWIXUECX1kFpC3cAbw/l0xQgTo4I0CFOowhYsArWw/13238/8373feacb9f123ff0454212bf514261d">here</a> to view our latest email promotion. As some of your families approach the Sacrament of First Communion we want to extend an exclusive offer so you can save as you shop for <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/first-communion-gifts/2,356.html">First Communion Gifts </a>and First Communion Apparel. Spend $100 at <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/">www.stpatricksguild.com</a> and you can receive a First Communion Veil or a First Communion Tie Clasp for FREE! Once you reach $100 in your shopping cart choose from 3 different veils and add one for free. Or if you would like a Gold Colored Cross Tie Clasp add that for free instead. This offer is only good thru Monday April 4th, 2011 so hurry and get your First Communion Shopping in this weekend and take advantage of this great offer.Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-75117539008982333102010-07-13T10:16:00.000-07:002010-07-13T10:24:58.101-07:00July Wine Sale at St. Patrick's Guild<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfYOzOKXK0P1JTsNKdqZDEpjaIiG6R6sepF4IYnHxQskvmPgFS8ZZTEwaI-k_nPFj4PkIc93YUwULjfoTy8fhns_yIh5Hw5VSfyci4crUqxfHd5XK0yB04_tq1apGXEAEW1qImTsdGZ-v/s1600/2010_july_sale_flyer.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493441144976608450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 439px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfYOzOKXK0P1JTsNKdqZDEpjaIiG6R6sepF4IYnHxQskvmPgFS8ZZTEwaI-k_nPFj4PkIc93YUwULjfoTy8fhns_yIh5Hw5VSfyci4crUqxfHd5XK0yB04_tq1apGXEAEW1qImTsdGZ-v/s400/2010_july_sale_flyer.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-43704910367693179452010-04-09T12:20:00.000-07:002010-04-09T12:31:10.318-07:00Spring Clergy Shirt Sale!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsL2H7o9Dx-WPettDElmb-9Cl3X32Oiv57roDK4Ds8c8gJMF3EPFpgkjRjLVX9ticM0ObUdkIHS_UE9ySOEJV6zPKOSDo8r-AROk7USGLtEzJ-9npuBHZLmySucIlQQxAqUiRGv2VoAyA/s1600/page0001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458221790511137026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLsL2H7o9Dx-WPettDElmb-9Cl3X32Oiv57roDK4Ds8c8gJMF3EPFpgkjRjLVX9ticM0ObUdkIHS_UE9ySOEJV6zPKOSDo8r-AROk7USGLtEzJ-9npuBHZLmySucIlQQxAqUiRGv2VoAyA/s400/page0001.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZKzj9_dQC79nXJuh11fvWdlAz3ELsRFDg9snvmPq6Ikr3Qzn0zNj_KKJwnUeMb_Z98z99OVEa0ScGm98Hwl5K_qbGBH47vj-lgEHgvhOlZQ3RjoeUHEG6V0aK5Tye5YbZdKoV7cBpohPj/s1600/page0001.jpg"></a>This Spring, St. Patrick's Guild would like to extend to you some special pricing on our most popular brands and styles of short sleeve clergy shirts. For the month of May, when you buy one, you get the second at half price! For more information, please give us a call at 1800-652-9767 or come in and visit us at 1554 Randolph Ave, St. Paul, MN.<br /><br /><div></div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-75381178922243398542010-04-09T11:40:00.000-07:002010-04-09T13:15:19.576-07:00What is a Deacon?The order of the Deacon has been an integral part of Church history since the very beginning of Christianity. Tradition has it that in the 1st century, seven men were selected and identified as the first deacons. According to <em>Acts 6</em>, these men were "Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Prochorus</span>, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Nicanor</span>, and Timon, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Parmenas</span>, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch". Most famous among the seven deacons was St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr who was killed in Jerusalem in 35 c.e. These men were to be servants and ministers to the Church and focus their energy on charitable work among the community. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5458226572206870226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 234px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuuuD5hN5fV1ArUG4hGDHQ4xBkV4IdX9QYcZgn4tknAeAPAMhvKWgIT1-GIC1Ea_E6RQpyeepQSdzdDGVKFVUh3tTMP-w6gRbW59x4IkSkprtpBzclzZlUvRt9kDF04P6Cxv9NbP2B1_z/s320/7deacons1.jpg" border="0" />Originally, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">deaconate</span> was meant to be a permanent position, but over the centuries, the office of the permanent deacon fell out of use. However, the tradition of transitional deacons continued unabated. The transitional <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">deaconate</span> is a step for all men preparing for the priesthood. Transitional deacons have the exact same responsibilities as a permanent deacon, but they only remain in the order of the deacon for about a year before their ordination as a priest. Vatican II (1962-1965) brought about a reinstating of the permanent <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">deaconate</span>. Today, there are about 13,000 permanent deacons of the Catholic Church in the United States.<br /><div></div><br /><div>So what exactly does a deacon do? According the the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the deacons mission is threefold. <em>"As ministers of Word, deacons proclaim the Gospel, preach, and teach in the name of the Church. As ministers of Sacrament, deacons baptize, lead the faithful in prayer, witness marriages, and conduct wake and funeral services As ministers of Charity, deacons are leaders in identifying the needs of others, then <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">marshalling</span> the Church's resources to meet those needs. Deacons are also dedicated to eliminating the injustices or inequities that cause such needs." </em>Unique to the order of the deacon is that the office is open to married men. Married men aged 35 or older are allowed to become deacons, while single men may enter the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">deaconate</span> at age 25. If a deacon's spouse precedes him in death, he is not allowed to remarry, and must then assume a celibate life. Most deacons also have jobs outside of the church which leaves them in a position that falls somewhere between lay person and clergy. It is a unique role within the Church, and ultimately very enriching for the Christian community.</div><div></div><div>On May 1st, 2010, the St. Paul Seminary will be holding a deacon ordination for their 3rd year Seminarians. For those interested in witnessing an ordination and supporting the future leaders of our church, the service takes place at 10 a.m. at the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Basilica</span> in Minneapolis.</div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-56389322151864003272010-03-26T14:13:00.000-07:002010-03-26T14:39:48.577-07:00Palm Sunday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLexo9jzS8v1ERpgbrKmkert9jLRuwzl2ti2DXcCmBk28j1FygdQqDXDUzhvYkTNSqaCtnK8uAIa10Mzw2u2khKc_bkKHeW3HIXxbLnVHubAmX0HtsK6TwI66cZTfsOmpH0avS-bIMWkXg/s1600/palmsunday2.jpg"><em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453058560451858546" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 184px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLexo9jzS8v1ERpgbrKmkert9jLRuwzl2ti2DXcCmBk28j1FygdQqDXDUzhvYkTNSqaCtnK8uAIa10Mzw2u2khKc_bkKHeW3HIXxbLnVHubAmX0HtsK6TwI66cZTfsOmpH0avS-bIMWkXg/s200/palmsunday2.jpg" border="0" /></em></a><em> The disciples went and did as Jesus had ordered them. They brought the donkey and the colt and laid their cloaks over them, and he sat upon them. The very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and strewed them on the road. The crowds preceded him and those following kept crying out and saying:<br />"Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest."</em><br />-Matthew 21: 6-9<br /><br />Palm Sunday, or Passion Sunday, is celebrated one week before Easter Sunday and marks the beginning of Holy Week. It celebrates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem as found in all 4 gospels. (Mark 11: 1-11, Matthew 21: 1-11, Luke 19: 28-44, and John 12: 12-19). Traditionally, churches distribute palms to their parishioners during Palm Sunday to symbolically mark Jesus' procession into Jerusalem. Often, the palms are tied into a cross shape, but not all churches follow this tradition. These palms have been blessed by the priest, and following the ceremony, they are often recollected and saved to be burned the following year to supply the Ashes for Ash Wednesday.<br /><br />Palm Sunday will be on March 28 this year.Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-29224603249097203092010-03-12T13:06:00.000-08:002010-03-12T13:52:00.439-08:00What is a Paschal Candle?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rBnXFjzu7omOSa02roLz42VVxrxF1gsWyCINrQu-RshDOjh9_FGBu3BFi36XgB_luA4id_pkBkaC4oBapLACwZYaX4Ofct2HB7SrCMNtQHQpIMzV_2FhheVPTrXA1f85JAv-hGcAoNkp/s1600-h/paschal+candle.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447865977489540818" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 226px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rBnXFjzu7omOSa02roLz42VVxrxF1gsWyCINrQu-RshDOjh9_FGBu3BFi36XgB_luA4id_pkBkaC4oBapLACwZYaX4Ofct2HB7SrCMNtQHQpIMzV_2FhheVPTrXA1f85JAv-hGcAoNkp/s320/paschal+candle.jpg" border="0" /></a>The tradition of the Paschal candle may go back as far as the 4th century. We find in the letters of St. Jerome a description of the custom and tradition surrounding the Paschal candle. The practice probably stems from the Lucernarium rite as well as an old Jewish tradition. In the early church, after the candle had been used on Easter Sunday, they would break the candle up into fragments and pass out the pieces to the faithful in the community. Starting in the 10th century, however, the Paschal candle began to have a more prominent position within churches. By the 12th century, they were inscribing the current year on the candle which is a practice that continues to this day.<br /><br />Paschal candles are the largest candles in the worship space. The candle will prominently feature a cross, and also displays the Greek letters alpha and omega to signify that God is the beginning and the end. The year is added as a reminder of God's immediate presence among the religious community. Five grains of incense (most often red) are embedded in the candle (sometimes encased in wax "nails") during the Easter Vigil to represent the five wounds of Jesus: one in each hand, one in each foot, and the spear thrust into his side.<br /><br />Every year during the Easter Vigil, a new Paschal candle is blessed. Each parish should have a new candle every year as a sign of each community's participation in the Easter mystery. The candle is lit for all religious services throughout the 50 days of the Easter season. For the remainder of the year, the candle may be lit for baptisms, funerals, or weddings.<br /><br />Check out some Paschal Candles at St. Patrick's Guild. Click <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,1787.html">here</a>.Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-6731895628026616532010-03-10T16:54:00.000-08:002010-03-10T17:29:25.414-08:00Dead Sea Scrolls at the Science Museum of Minnesota<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYzEsPIlE_WDlGylHUyVcSSumTiLLkuaI6_17DcUZwpNtC2gYoxFopJdo7rfqHIJDFqsb2eTIIPGS2S9cGntVXWD6JyX9Wvb9hWu8suxRlHDpIQ4p09SB0HugPe_0rbAr4v65_kn051r3/s1600-h/dead+sea+scroll.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447177955812456082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 247px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYzEsPIlE_WDlGylHUyVcSSumTiLLkuaI6_17DcUZwpNtC2gYoxFopJdo7rfqHIJDFqsb2eTIIPGS2S9cGntVXWD6JyX9Wvb9hWu8suxRlHDpIQ4p09SB0HugPe_0rbAr4v65_kn051r3/s320/dead+sea+scroll.jpg" border="0" /></a> For the first time ever, Minnesotans are getting a chance to view the legendary Dead Sea Scrolls. These documents, discovered between 1947 - 1956, are the oldest known copies of biblical texts dated from around 150 BCE to 70 CE. Discovered in caves by a young shepherd boy, they are generally attributed to a Jewish sect known as the Essenes. These documents are considered by many to be the most historically significant find of the 20th century, so this opportunity to see them first hand is remarkable. The exhibit will be open from March 12 - October 24, and there is an accompanying Omnitheatre movie.<br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447178035640114706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 249px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHS3SPyLDxsAjljMbAMrrBT2C_JuwnkwYknkMlbVHCFXe7bUAtkIcFeWNZwZgFJzeaKoukDPVghUtOaukDESZtw326oWFX2D-Tse6nKNecHj67wh6GmO6WLBHzbKLJveSjIlvo31Ou5Jbu/s320/dead+sea+scroll+3.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447182094343089522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 264px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvpXQZrACkD8FEVWDJ0ixaQrtWrsFdaK8M8_uKHIY28ElFWV6ImMcco9DXuRHOIOKYiqA8JnlJJlsWNVpIpwptWtfc2om2lNiujviBzQV6ObhUfZoVBMRZs7iDBuCt5C2iCOjXoId15nR/s320/dead+sea+scroll+2.jpg" border="0" />Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-66742733830478072562010-03-05T14:30:00.000-08:002010-03-05T14:51:32.634-08:00History of St. Patrick<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfz27OHd-ID67dJnSGwU5JnhQKu9YTbhfboS0evDgloLSEVUyX7FMzxuqfwQjTo-MRc7zaorZ6pZPq-0tJJlWjRCOO1B_Qy8wi_xEtmh_1cT9uEp0wM9I3iRhW9edgDPF1936vD-7cAlMX/s1600-h/patrick.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445285816907427394" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 226px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfz27OHd-ID67dJnSGwU5JnhQKu9YTbhfboS0evDgloLSEVUyX7FMzxuqfwQjTo-MRc7zaorZ6pZPq-0tJJlWjRCOO1B_Qy8wi_xEtmh_1cT9uEp0wM9I3iRhW9edgDPF1936vD-7cAlMX/s320/patrick.gif" border="0" /></a>With less than 2 weeks until St. Patrick's Day, now is the perfect time to take a look at one of the most well known saints - <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,47101.html">St. Patrick</a>, the patron saint of Ireland. Considering how loved and honored St. Patrick is, we know very little concrete facts about his life. It is thought that Patrick was born in 385 AD. He was born a Roman citizen in Britain (his Latin name was Magonius Sucatus Patricius). His grandfather was a priest (it was still common for priests to marry at this time), and his father was a deacon. However, most scholars believe that his father became a deacon for tax reasons, so there is no indication that Patrick was particularly religious at an early age.<br /><div><br /><div>When he was 16, he was captured by Irish raiders who were attacking his family estate, and he was sold into slavery in Ireland. During his 6 years of servitude working as a shepherd in County Mayo, he underwent a religious transformation. In 407, God came to Patrick in a dream and told him it was time for him to leave Ireland, so he walked 200 miles to the Irish coast and escaped by boat to Gaul. Although many like to believe that Patrick received his religious education in Britain, it was more likely that his education was received from monastic institutions in Gaul (modern day France). After 15 years of training, he was consecrated a bishop was was sent as a missionary to Ireland.</div><br /><div>Tradition has it that St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland, but this is not entirely true. Although he was the first successful missionary to Ireland, a man named Palladius went before him in 431. However, it is thought that he either died or went to Scotland, and there is no record of him in Ireland after 431.<br /></div><div>There are many popular legends surrounding St. Patrick (such as the story of him driving the snakes out of Ireland), but there is little historical evidence to support any of the iconic stories. Our only definite information comes from 2 Latin letters that are generally accepted to be written by Patrick. They are the "Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus" and "Declaration". It is in "Declaration" that Patrick provides a bit of autobiographical information. So, Patrick remains one of the most well known and yet mysterious Saints in the Catholic Church. A fascinating character, St. Patrick will remain a favorite of the Irish and Catholics around the world.</div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-38428905364864915262010-02-25T16:00:00.000-08:002010-02-25T17:45:18.769-08:00Stations of the CrossThe following is a collection of different artistic representations of the Stations of the Cross from around the world. From Poland, to the UK, to America, these pictures come together to tell the heartbreaking and inspiring story of Jesus' crucifixion. Although immensely different in style, each artistic rendition of the Stations of the Cross brings a new emotion and surprising element to the story. This is a unique collection of the Stations of the Cross that acts as a reminder of the far reaching impact Jesus has had upon humanity.<br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">First Station - Jesus is Condemned to Death </span><br /></div><div align="center"><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cMnWXIFKoXJvo-XfEIqlU2wJs2GvNCAMYqldNyaeQG3frCiyhuENmz9hBCh4b5zVJkSZxjd5hF45r453KgkGyKi2rWvOSrFmmoEyUvAzxkLxQ_yIZY9syH0hrlO0NOxau8bAlzrB9vmJ/s1600-h/1st+-+Grieshaber%27s+woodcuts+Polish+Stations.bmp"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353608249333474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 264px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2cMnWXIFKoXJvo-XfEIqlU2wJs2GvNCAMYqldNyaeQG3frCiyhuENmz9hBCh4b5zVJkSZxjd5hF45r453KgkGyKi2rWvOSrFmmoEyUvAzxkLxQ_yIZY9syH0hrlO0NOxau8bAlzrB9vmJ/s320/1st+-+Grieshaber%27s+woodcuts+Polish+Stations.bmp" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> Grieshaber's woodcuts Polish Stations</span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span>Second Station - Jesus Takes Up His Cross<br /></span><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2alAWDpRCPO5yTMYRLssCL7t4X6YbbYVi8k6lYZdRYf5rp3LR90VAnd695K7fhyWu9GnIp-M3XxXtXdjatSmtS3lWdXYVFxM3pThcv8YWnn_dG2ZcLjyiVysW2qbYUDwjpzxoyo1rnQ7/s1600-h/2nd+max+demoss.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353542102795714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 293px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2alAWDpRCPO5yTMYRLssCL7t4X6YbbYVi8k6lYZdRYf5rp3LR90VAnd695K7fhyWu9GnIp-M3XxXtXdjatSmtS3lWdXYVFxM3pThcv8YWnn_dG2ZcLjyiVysW2qbYUDwjpzxoyo1rnQ7/s320/2nd+max+demoss.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> By Max DeMoss</span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><br />Third Station - Jesus Falls a First Time Under the Cross </span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ltFAm4Fk-27GMFhS2oLRGD2lbxFsH4MuJwZgdRmQO2I0Kg_BksChk3QtTSVaa8pEVhWoeFwdZ5Fa8TAp3SIkdW3jH7iszc5xxo0rOT05U-fg30gpQvd6lHiT_ndEBx2kqzauvyay9ZuK/s1600-h/3rd+alan+joshua.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353488793382002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 254px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ltFAm4Fk-27GMFhS2oLRGD2lbxFsH4MuJwZgdRmQO2I0Kg_BksChk3QtTSVaa8pEVhWoeFwdZ5Fa8TAp3SIkdW3jH7iszc5xxo0rOT05U-fg30gpQvd6lHiT_ndEBx2kqzauvyay9ZuK/s320/3rd+alan+joshua.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> </span></div><span style="font-size:85%;">By Alan Joshua<br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Fourth Station - Jesus Meets His Afflicted Mother<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353902334315666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQg9zyiEJUhVWsj1axAJnakIy-HeMIwchPJkWfinmZ98Pn4wCNLjUovS2qB7XI6c-HQ-99Ekl3mqzBjwINUzUWrmTJNpi-TwT7aY0Dy0dLFPW4BfNivzkKLyuhVzRVDcBWGwlYCJY9EFX/s320/4th+adrian+wisznieski.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">By Gwyneth Lech<br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Fifth Station - Simon of Cyrene is Forced to Take Up the Cross </span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xNNX6BzGYOXyQcRNXl69EyYxl6yGm8jbqlMtECH7jB12xxzCLV_uGOOgespoUzStvu7TKTCJKmYAfIENGA6uJ1b1F4wf2nYQuBcjTnvOklABJBSUgRDTs6qeByrAvyN7FwHSiayelExU/s1600-h/5th+kirsten+malcolm+and+mark+prins.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353338555164450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 187px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xNNX6BzGYOXyQcRNXl69EyYxl6yGm8jbqlMtECH7jB12xxzCLV_uGOOgespoUzStvu7TKTCJKmYAfIENGA6uJ1b1F4wf2nYQuBcjTnvOklABJBSUgRDTs6qeByrAvyN7FwHSiayelExU/s320/5th+kirsten+malcolm+and+mark+prins.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;">By Kirsten Malcolm and Mark Prins</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br />Sixth Station - Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus<br /></span><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Oar3ZaHANq0UBwl2DVBVBfobnZBYxgDxA_9qPnXfsPrALFzrCSIfVVMZ7uhCdroZnEF7XWIRP8RpHsCs54GnQ8dOR0lM1ooFLuaU2grZ7FDAi8k49JnpCAWogXeueaR4p-7i9bhXZQOv/s1600-h/6th+Beverly+Carpenter.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353284291120594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Oar3ZaHANq0UBwl2DVBVBfobnZBYxgDxA_9qPnXfsPrALFzrCSIfVVMZ7uhCdroZnEF7XWIRP8RpHsCs54GnQ8dOR0lM1ooFLuaU2grZ7FDAi8k49JnpCAWogXeueaR4p-7i9bhXZQOv/s320/6th+Beverly+Carpenter.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;">By Beverly Carpenter</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br />Seventh Station - Jesus Falls a Second Time </span><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_vMvCO3hyMQ36zV9Rl9SEUDKGqiF0ihMdSGL6A8oC7mpwDFKOm-pmbwvtEZV4sbXhbYmqtC2VpGmMxg3gxkb5gWk2NmAX7WJQ9syjaRmTfwEJxqt9AtdYsOJAw7qBrixk4FHlvmdo2Rv/s1600-h/7th+chris+gollon.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353213504949250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 318px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_vMvCO3hyMQ36zV9Rl9SEUDKGqiF0ihMdSGL6A8oC7mpwDFKOm-pmbwvtEZV4sbXhbYmqtC2VpGmMxg3gxkb5gWk2NmAX7WJQ9syjaRmTfwEJxqt9AtdYsOJAw7qBrixk4FHlvmdo2Rv/s320/7th+chris+gollon.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:+0;">By Chris Gollon</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span>Eighth Station - Jesus Meets the Women of Jerusalem<br /></span><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTE9mjGl-yjjv6DMXPXXkJiJSWjKovbzt9vNiZoDC382vvzt-39U0bz1HduwfT-08Z53RlOfL-z1h6potJnJQ0FM_r-dSvNbMLU-hgOzV7noOw9Wru9dm81guKdJYEwtqO4t1H9SrHCWC/s1600-h/8th+david+O%27connell.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353160049130786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTE9mjGl-yjjv6DMXPXXkJiJSWjKovbzt9vNiZoDC382vvzt-39U0bz1HduwfT-08Z53RlOfL-z1h6potJnJQ0FM_r-dSvNbMLU-hgOzV7noOw9Wru9dm81guKdJYEwtqO4t1H9SrHCWC/s320/8th+david+O%27connell.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-size:85%;">By David O'Connell</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br />Ninth Station - Jesus Falls A Third Time<br /></span><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cbGvUZ8z8jMzEkRi7u-sqIaXCaew8OElFzoyuGES7bd5-ymdgVUbhgqxV-QkrNOqysVDG50yoY_Wmkj9bPxLy6vTIVsRr5MuloXCyLnIq7UDaQT9Lz7Jt8dOO9CW1JrepmVY8NlsVguG/s1600-h/9th+island+of+jeju.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353113425279746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0cbGvUZ8z8jMzEkRi7u-sqIaXCaew8OElFzoyuGES7bd5-ymdgVUbhgqxV-QkrNOqysVDG50yoY_Wmkj9bPxLy6vTIVsRr5MuloXCyLnIq7UDaQT9Lz7Jt8dOO9CW1JrepmVY8NlsVguG/s320/9th+island+of+jeju.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> From Jeju Island<br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Tenth Station - Jesus is Stripped of His Garments</span> </div></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442357243997450546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0SARUnVznHCEkQ7zA3JPzgR-CM-uLuB1_G0nSEyt_9VyB2_jD02JFY61ldncAjFD9JESdmLP1729BgjvczHLKUnjnLTsCELBy2F160-waKsbJtD168d26KQmOT93ZD9wVGd_-YpNHsCo/s320/10th+Chris+Gollon.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">By Chris Gollon</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Eleventh Station - Jesus is Nailed to the Cross</span><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGe1oqPZ6IVhX9Wlkbwhz_PuPHn4SLYI3-mQq1QRsRiF2BB4uPdivTnhdX9cf-aiEMxXZ7-0bbDVHpm6E3xXzGwsG28lNXNR9k1EeE8x2pQFiWbd1oHOc0M4ZdHWCx2CW9urL3nV2hRAb/s1600-h/11th+st+raphael+church.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442353009176594610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 223px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQGe1oqPZ6IVhX9Wlkbwhz_PuPHn4SLYI3-mQq1QRsRiF2BB4uPdivTnhdX9cf-aiEMxXZ7-0bbDVHpm6E3xXzGwsG28lNXNR9k1EeE8x2pQFiWbd1oHOc0M4ZdHWCx2CW9urL3nV2hRAb/s320/11th+st+raphael+church.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">From St. Raphael Church</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">Twelfth Station - Jesus Dies on the Cross </span><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKF5p956KhH07C9a4V8hvkfaZAouPZFdpCL_SoB7szOEztnIIElMmPpOmqImJXyuNHkZmcDZdd6eX5vy2V_BA2hJQRGi0Zj8dZUZvLkESWWaxwQs910-MPGxsRKLNYfWNM_HIHqNnEzek/s1600-h/12th+Mimmo+Paladino+are+in+the+Church+of+Santo+Volto+di+Ges%C3%B9+in+Rome.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442352940376283138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 293px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlKF5p956KhH07C9a4V8hvkfaZAouPZFdpCL_SoB7szOEztnIIElMmPpOmqImJXyuNHkZmcDZdd6eX5vy2V_BA2hJQRGi0Zj8dZUZvLkESWWaxwQs910-MPGxsRKLNYfWNM_HIHqNnEzek/s320/12th+Mimmo+Paladino+are+in+the+Church+of+Santo+Volto+di+Ges%C3%B9+in+Rome.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;">By Mimmo Paladino </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> </div></div></div></div></div><div><div></div><div></div><div>Thirteenth Station - The Body of Jesus is Placed in the Arms of His Mother<br /></span><br /></div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPeiqQS3DompgRNhkAq58O9L6NhIi3qjlMWuQt1YWn8phISRPxTXGNWXwKLB0FcvXB8BL9epD_X5Qx5C_DmtPYvuwTTOKMKn-hs25P5Ici_UaEdm9kQKwbbchxVAIJGhEzxu4tqEjlvYn/s1600-h/13th+Aubrey+Freeman.jpg"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442352875671463970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 314px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVPeiqQS3DompgRNhkAq58O9L6NhIi3qjlMWuQt1YWn8phISRPxTXGNWXwKLB0FcvXB8BL9epD_X5Qx5C_DmtPYvuwTTOKMKn-hs25P5Ici_UaEdm9kQKwbbchxVAIJGhEzxu4tqEjlvYn/s320/13th+Aubrey+Freeman.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"> </span></div><span style="font-size:85%;">By Aubrey Freeman<br /></span><div><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Fourteenth Station - Jesus is Laid in the Tomb</span><br /></span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442356244701650066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 158px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXzutxqNC2WBxywranvytGcT36G91SqYcwUpek3CJt1MOmUd2s4ny7tAs_vwFBJNTWBfhshr31JYD769v0oM0Mu6BDbUP28s1q4lEytkSkWTC8NMgGic5-UmTAvUZCc_eicuk2mkralu3/s320/14th+Sister+Mary+Grace+Thul.jpg" border="0" /> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /></div><p align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">By Sister Mary Grace Thul</span></p>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-82329063255885299802010-02-24T16:18:00.000-08:002010-02-24T17:25:25.184-08:00Catholics are Hilarious!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rTa5Vb1EBHMusBsK9ogDmK3N1g7FlrwgCz6GZswF6uJCs2qnyZxjBS_VTYf5fAlEf6wXKEYpBwF_Fhv96koaJmrDZC6Ghqk6IO9FKuI0AODimTGbB3UuM8wUy52cUREb356i7XW_8WO6/s1600-h/Nuns.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441985871030353602" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 196px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9rTa5Vb1EBHMusBsK9ogDmK3N1g7FlrwgCz6GZswF6uJCs2qnyZxjBS_VTYf5fAlEf6wXKEYpBwF_Fhv96koaJmrDZC6Ghqk6IO9FKuI0AODimTGbB3UuM8wUy52cUREb356i7XW_8WO6/s200/Nuns.bmp" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">A cop pulls</span></strong> over a car full of nuns. The cop says, "Sister, the speed limit on this highway is 55 mph. Why are you so slow?"<br /></span><div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Sister replies, "I saw a lot of signs that said 41, not 55."<br />The Cop says, "Sister, that's the name of the highway, not the speed limit."</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">"Silly me," the embarrassed nun says, "Thanks for letting me know. I'll be more careful."</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">But then the cop glances in the back seat where the other nuns are quaking with fear. He asks,</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">"Excuse me, Sister, what's wrong with your friends?"</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Sister says, "Oh, we just got off Highway 101." </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;"></span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">Q:</span></strong> What do you call a sleep walking Nun?</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">A:</span></strong> A Roamin' Catholic</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">Little Johnny</span></strong> opened the big family Bible with fascination, and looked through the old pages.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Suddenly, something fell out of the Bible. Little Johnny picked it up and looked. An old leaf from a tree had been pressed between the pages. "Momma, look what i found," he called out.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">"What have you got there, dear?" his mother asked.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">With astonishment in the young boy's voice, he answered: "I think it's Adam's swim suit!"</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">The children</span></strong> were lined up in the cafeteria of a Catholic elementary school for lunch. At the head of the table was a large pile of apples. There was a note posed by the fruit. "Take only one," it read. "God is watching."</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">At the other end of the line was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies. One child whispered to another, "Take all you want. God's watching the apples." </span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">Q</span>:</strong> How did the bishop make holy water?<br /><span style="color:#000066;"><strong>A</strong>:</span> He took some tap water and boiled the hell out of it.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">Did you know</span></strong> the apostles actually edited the Bible story about the woman caught in adultery because what really happened was quite awkward?</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">It seems Jesus was writing in the sand and said, "If anyone of you is without sin, you be the first to throw a stone."</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Suddenly, from out of nowhere, a rock came sailing in and whacked the poor woman in the head. Jesus stood up and with great exasperation</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">said, "Mother!"</span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441985467525978418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFIRnxaVNTq05ZJQ9xj8LK0NH3vwnqF43wX_oGEqcGExQX4KHUO_4nOv4gmwKEolQkh6xpUkopT5Sn9THTvao96pT6fHHi481Mxw2V5GchTvfhQChx52d4vZp7e_syTj2Mw-IRj31OTiu/s200/jesus-happy.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:78%;"><strong><span style="color:#000066;">A couple</span></strong> had two very mischievous little boys, ages eight and ten, who were always getting into trouble. The parents knew that if any</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">mischief occurred in their town their sons were probably involved.</span><br /><div><span style="font-size:78%;">The boys' mother heard that a monsignor in town had been successful in disciplining children, so she asked if he would speak with her boys. The monsignor agreed. The mother sent the eight year old in first.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">The monsignor, a huge man with a booming voice, sat the young boy down and asked him sternly, "Where is God?"</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">The boy's mouth dropped open, but he made no response. He just sat there with this mouth hanging open, wide-eyed. So the monsignor repeated the question in an even stronger tone, "Where is God?" Again the boy made no attempt to answer.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">So the monsignor raised his voice even more and shook his finger in the boy's face and bellowed, "WHERE IS GOD?"</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">The boy screamed and bolted from the room, ran directly home and dove into his closet clamming the door behind him.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">When his older brother found him, he asked, "What happened?"</span></div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">The younger brother, gasping for breath, replied, "We are in BIG trouble this time, dude. God is missing - and they think WE did it!"</span></div><br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:78%;color:#3333ff;">-For more HILARIOUS jokes, check out <em>The Book of Catholic Jokes </em>by Deacon Tom Sheridan</span></strong></div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-23567819988059412972010-01-27T15:30:00.000-08:002010-01-27T16:51:16.865-08:00St. Thomas Aquinas' Feast Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARL1bmEvmWdaPaQrMN5_tku5XDC-1Um9RE2ftlybmy4R0HpFzP3ELD9Gl5YAsk6Ddbfab9EDprrAzB-dTkdOOpHaU96i_FOYKv6VMRd9tt9ldighwAFm0h_sdU_ggrk9wVSdMmqIvj7gT/s1600-h/st-thomas-aquinas2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431586560411545394" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 156px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARL1bmEvmWdaPaQrMN5_tku5XDC-1Um9RE2ftlybmy4R0HpFzP3ELD9Gl5YAsk6Ddbfab9EDprrAzB-dTkdOOpHaU96i_FOYKv6VMRd9tt9ldighwAFm0h_sdU_ggrk9wVSdMmqIvj7gT/s200/st-thomas-aquinas2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div>January 28th is the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas. As one of the 33 Doctors of the Church, he is a remarkably influential figure who is viewed as the model teacher for those studying for the priesthood. As a great theologian and philosopher, he left behind some words of wisdom that are still incredibly relevant in today's world. As I was looking through some of his quotes, I found myself surprised by how much a 13th century priest could speak to me. Here are some of my favorite St. Thomas Aquinas quotes:</div><br /><div>-Faith has to do with things that are not seen and hope with things that are not at hand.<br />-Friendship is the source of the greatest pleasures, and without friends even the most agreeable pursuits become tedious. </div><div>-Good can exist without evil, whereas evil cannot exist without good.</div><div>-How can we live in harmony? First we need to know we are all madly in love with the same God.</div><div>-If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever. </div><div>-The things that we love tell us what we are. </div><div>-There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship. </div><div>-To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible. </div><div>-We can't have full knowledge all at once. We must start by believing; then afterwards we may be led on to master the evidence for ourselves. </div><div>-Wonder is the desire for knowledge. </div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-66990829612953304772010-01-15T12:04:00.000-08:002010-01-15T12:26:44.399-08:00Prayers for HaitiAfter the devastating earthquake in Haiti on Tuesday, our thoughts and prayers go out to those in need. Relief efforts are trying to save as many people from the 7.0 magnitude earthquake, but 100,000+ are feared dead. This is a truly tragic disaster, so please pray and help in whatever way you can. <br /><br />Our Lady of Perpetual Help is the patron saint of Haiti. In this time of grief, let us call upon her for help and comfort.<br /><br /><em>O Mother of Perpetual Help, thou art the dispenser of every grace that God grants us in our misery; it is for this cause that He hath made thee so powerful, so rich, so kind, that thou might assist us in our miseries. Come once more to my assistance, for I commend myself to thee. In thy hands I place my eternal salvation; to thee I entrust my soul. Enroll me among thy most faithful servants; take me under thy protection and it is enough for me: yes, for if thou protect me, I shall fear nothing. My dear Lady, obtain for me the forgiveness of my sins, love for Jesus, final perseverance and the grace to have recourse to thee at all times, O Mother of Perpetual Help.</em> <br /><br />Donations can be made to Haiti relief efforts through the Salvation Army <a href="http://blog.salvationarmyeds.org/?p=297">here</a>.Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-4355463356938951762010-01-13T15:31:00.000-08:002010-01-13T16:32:23.644-08:00Candlemas Celebration<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426386782507804962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiAeV0SK74LMZlXatvhyy9dQ2ea7W0EKc3GPUvW2SQ8Eqf4yiOJe7WetGSt5kChVlgU6yrEeJDEguzTCA8W5xD6VKQ4WglbZuDgxrU_-N7CAaGw20On66Mt24DUaMy7JN6RXFQLx4Mk-GC/s320/candlemas.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div>Candlemas (or the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord) is a Catholic celebration that falls on February 2. It is a remembrance of Jesus' presentation and purification in the Temple. According to Mosaic Law, a mother was to bring her son to the Temple 40 days after birth to be purified. During the ceremony, Mary received the Prophecy of Holy Simeon: </div><div><br /><em>And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother: Behold this child is set for the fall, and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted; And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.</em><br /></div><div>(Luke 2:34-35: )</div><div><br />The Feast of the Presentation is one of the most ancient feasts of the Christian Church. The first written reference can be found in the travel log of a 4th century nun named Egeria. Today, Candlemas is used as the time to bless candles to be used throughout the upcoming year. In a ceremony separate from mass, the priest blesses the beeswax candles with an aspergilium. Traditionally, parishes distribute some of these candles out to their parishioners. However, this tradition has somewhat fallen out of practice since Vatican II. </div><br /><div>Candlemas is a day to celebrate new things. Home celebrations include a family meal with crepes, pancakes and cakes, and all grain based foods. Light candles around the house, spend time with your family, and remember the Holy Family.</div><br /><div>Click <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,1529.html">here </a>for special Candlemas Candles.</div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-67607322410674324182009-12-31T07:40:00.000-08:002009-12-31T08:18:44.901-08:00Connect with the Vatican<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421434192674020578" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 218px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtSNQgUe_Vxi3qx63KiD9Eo0zeR5HoM7CRmazwtSaZOe5VNqt1eQGfEahAEiFa2P4pjrjGKyDmLNuolIyhi26Lv37PtqyAH_WPXYwaRG5ZD6c8Ckwnj8CdwBcC0GUXUIoGcbGnFRB75P_/s320/pope.jpg" border="0" />During the 21st century, the Vatican has become surprisingly internet savvy. During a time when communication has become increasingly dependent upon the internet, the Vatican has been keeping up with the trend by becoming part of various social networking sites and generally becoming more internet friendly. Whether it is on Facebook or YouTube, the Vatican is attempting to appeal to the younger generations. Here are some of the best websites to stay connected with the Vatican today:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/vatican">Official Vatican YouTube Page</a><br /><a href="http://music.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=music.singleplaylist&friendid=502108561&plid=1256850">Music from the Vatican's Playlist</a><br /><a href="http://www.vatican.va/phome_en.htm">Official Vatican Website</a><br /><a href="http://www.pope2you.net/">Vatican Pope2You Facebook Application</a><br /><br />To learn more about Pope Benedict XVI, check out the biography by John. L. Allen Jr.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,36089.html">Pope Benedict XVI Biography</a>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-24222361278147342802009-12-23T12:30:00.000-08:002009-12-23T12:41:21.483-08:00Christmas Prayer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3PfqGXff4X3JUMNkMjbwiFHpaR_kxpdc8H0q5YG6i6IiV9AGF0OeNznSoONrT3d9E8_950H5nz7XLWZMn6JPoiHhuZeq6fhnNXoDuUM3rKOD6m_Wn4dDnhk9jK_yTd84CgPpdsO5OzLV/s1600-h/Nativity+Pic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418534035203824418" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 254px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3PfqGXff4X3JUMNkMjbwiFHpaR_kxpdc8H0q5YG6i6IiV9AGF0OeNznSoONrT3d9E8_950H5nz7XLWZMn6JPoiHhuZeq6fhnNXoDuUM3rKOD6m_Wn4dDnhk9jK_yTd84CgPpdsO5OzLV/s320/Nativity+Pic.jpg" border="0" /></a>Christmas can be a hectic time for all of us. But it is important to remember what the season is really about. Let's remember Jesus this Christmas and the gifts that he gave us. This prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson is a great reminder of what Christmas is all about: <div><br /><div>Loving God,<br />Help us remember the birth of Jesus, </div><div>that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men.<br />Close the door of hate </div><div>and open the door of love all over the world. </div><div>Let kindness come with every gift </div><div>and good desires with every greeting.</div><div>Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings,</div><div>and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.<br />May the Christmas morning make us happy </div><div>to be thy children,</div><div>and Christmas evening bring us to our beds </div><div>with grateful thoughts, </div><div>forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.</div><br /><br /><div></div><div>I hope you have a Merry Christmas!!!</div><br /><div>And don't forget about our After Christmas Sale! Starting December 26th at 9:00 a.m. save a minimum of 50% on seasonal items. </div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-76967996960899033652009-12-16T14:17:00.000-08:002009-12-16T14:32:19.387-08:00After Christmas Sale!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIyIaFyK7O3XQetcZnpDLOc5lmtfJjXjTJy4vZy8jfn17RMSkjqdfLcHgSYFeMicm8JMF_8DuFOtv3W6K-SQlfFmtfDI9twOa-NFJSUFk26J-n7VlVYxq8BQcPahHrduka9OCrE0KA5C2/s1600-h/Santa.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415965363278585842" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 201px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 208px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIyIaFyK7O3XQetcZnpDLOc5lmtfJjXjTJy4vZy8jfn17RMSkjqdfLcHgSYFeMicm8JMF_8DuFOtv3W6K-SQlfFmtfDI9twOa-NFJSUFk26J-n7VlVYxq8BQcPahHrduka9OCrE0KA5C2/s320/Santa.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">Saturday, December 26th </span></strong><br /></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;">9:00 - 5:30</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#006600;"></span></strong><div align="left"><br />Our doors will be opening at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 26th for our <span style="font-size:130%;">60th Annual After Christmas Sale</span>. </div><div align="left"><br />Come experience the best deals in town on seasonal and Christmas items! </div><div align="left"><br />Unlike other religious stores, we choose to liquidate all of our Christmas merchandise after Christmas in order to bring you the best savings. </div><br />Save a minimum of <span style="font-size:130%;">50% off</span> during our famous after Christmas Sale! You won't find deals like this anywhere else in town.<br /><br />Come early for the best selections. But if you can't make it in that Saturday, don't worry, sale prices will continue into January!<br /><br />Come stock up on Christmas gifts and decorations for next year while saving tons of money!!Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-3138165864688444132009-12-02T14:21:00.000-08:002009-12-02T14:46:02.305-08:00Fun Nativity Sets for KidsWhen I was a kid, I always wanted to play with my Mom's Nativity set. It was a beautiful glass set from Italy, but because it was so fragile, I had to stay away from it. Nowadays, there are great Nativity sets made specifically for kids. The materials, design, and packaging make them very durable and fun. These sets are a great way to teach your children about the Nativity while making sure that nothing gets broken or damaged. I wish I had known about these when I was younger.<br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BMT9xFo_1QiqSqktCeiY9sonSQ8CvzpXeLE8gG6F7tGUzpCkr5T5cZ51GNgtU61NcF1kbpQqzJf2PhdlMpu7_0orzAnoxSH1a2lPYdJJK9ExBjuEeAsXMR9BNgT2_dqg7X7OxGwfLTpv/s1600-h/nativity+set+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410771856557179138" style="WIDTH: 272px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BMT9xFo_1QiqSqktCeiY9sonSQ8CvzpXeLE8gG6F7tGUzpCkr5T5cZ51GNgtU61NcF1kbpQqzJf2PhdlMpu7_0orzAnoxSH1a2lPYdJJK9ExBjuEeAsXMR9BNgT2_dqg7X7OxGwfLTpv/s320/nativity+set+1.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,49675.html">12 piece Nativity set with Stable</a></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410772329629863682" style="WIDTH: 241px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2xDTOeyDQbG1vAW537x_gaNWSc7obp0nr1ZaMI8r9M4y_ykDOeixcVmsRcchyBf2rQtQQIUwTrGqIu79PoqWKuFLZJiXOfS2fPrNSupI5YOMYczXZn9OE6m4d6mexqjv2i3LtDtoXANm/s320/nativity+set+2.jpg" border="0" /></p><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,48629.html">Musical Nativity Set in Bag</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNT2G4ltR_oURFS1B6fUWYLiLDnfk_FwVBRow_1OFfgUMgfRrXT5-zbajkKvzHfWcK4any62mFaqnK7G92iUJLVPX_eKqvxZoMd_dvGxXDbu0iCRBJZIwuaYv-QUmerDR9O_pDkXC7A3hO/s1600-h/nativity+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410772752250631506" style="WIDTH: 283px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 151px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNT2G4ltR_oURFS1B6fUWYLiLDnfk_FwVBRow_1OFfgUMgfRrXT5-zbajkKvzHfWcK4any62mFaqnK7G92iUJLVPX_eKqvxZoMd_dvGxXDbu0iCRBJZIwuaYv-QUmerDR9O_pDkXC7A3hO/s320/nativity+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,51086.html">17 Piece Plastic </a><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,51086.html">Nativity Set</a>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-33505603190748790582009-11-27T12:11:00.000-08:002009-11-27T14:24:58.344-08:00Christmas Music Favorites!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9wkGAoAiAuEzHz2zUqoEMSYPLMMHg6wroE0nKiWKS44J7_QKbkkcuVUo4wWhK8T88OpbVDDK2dMfWn0XxW736Utdt_dj_Fq13Z3O60SugJrOngaou3nv3sF26lX9tys0mvfiLaxyIUzK/s1600/star.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408912629208746114" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 230px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy9wkGAoAiAuEzHz2zUqoEMSYPLMMHg6wroE0nKiWKS44J7_QKbkkcuVUo4wWhK8T88OpbVDDK2dMfWn0XxW736Utdt_dj_Fq13Z3O60SugJrOngaou3nv3sF26lX9tys0mvfiLaxyIUzK/s320/star.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Now that Thanksgiving is over, it's time to break out the Christmas music! One of my new favorite Christmas <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">CDs</span> comes from St. Olaf Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. <strong><em>Behold That Star!</em></strong> blends the classic with the contemporary to create the ultimate 2 disc collection. The music is beautifully produced, and with 35 song choices, this may be the only Christmas collection you need all season!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>St. Olaf Church describes their collection as:</div><br /><div>"Enhanced by spoken poetry and the Christmas gospel of Luke, the story of the season comes to life through music and the spoken word. Vocal solos sung by St. Olaf’s lead cantors blend with the choral music of the Festival Choir. A wide variety of solo and accompanying instruments are played by instrumentalists who serve the liturgy of St. Olaf, such as trumpet, oboe, bass, violin, guitar, flute, percussion, and the Steinway piano and 67 rank Lively-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Fulcher</span> pipe organ housed at St. Olaf. All the stops of the organ are pulled out for the organ solo postlude Bring a Torch Jeannette Isabella!"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><em>Behold That Star! </em></strong>is the perfect way to bring Christ into your home this holiday season. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,9089.html">Click here</a> for more information.</div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-58655340356884870582009-11-25T15:42:00.000-08:002009-11-25T17:19:34.005-08:00History of the Crucifix<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKGeuW4i4Zs_EC4plWDwStt6eIbPVzy4TpBhszWwaujYKrJu505c8qO6X2k_d2UsL9NiM_PBwwareS4GjgLpLIPor-InddKCIbk7ALCkDGgtdMvsoBH90KvjeO_-CPYpTBifLFLEpLCQI/s1600/9918465%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408210260440547106" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 211px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKGeuW4i4Zs_EC4plWDwStt6eIbPVzy4TpBhszWwaujYKrJu505c8qO6X2k_d2UsL9NiM_PBwwareS4GjgLpLIPor-InddKCIbk7ALCkDGgtdMvsoBH90KvjeO_-CPYpTBifLFLEpLCQI/s320/9918465%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>One of the core symbols of Christianity is the crucifix or cross. The cross has a rich history and has undergone many transformations over the years. Today, there are nearly limitless interpretations found all around the world - from the San <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Domiano</span> to the St. Benedict Crucifix. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The crucifix was not a symbol commonly used in the early church. Before the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> century, more emphasis was placed symbols like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ichthys</span>, the lamb, or a dove. The cross symbol appears occasionally before the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span> century as is evidenced in the <em>Octavius</em> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Minucius</span> Felix. However, around the 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> century, the crucifix began appearing in much greater numbers throughout Rome. At this time, the corpus depicted a peaceful Jesus who was free from suffering. His head was raised and his eyes were open. The emphasis was on the divinity of Jesus and his immunity to death. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Beginning in the 13<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span>, the crucifix underwent a dramatic transformation. A suffering Christ replaced the serene Christ of the earlier centuries. This was a Christ who was experiencing intense pain and suffering. His head was bowed, his body was twisted in pain and was bleeding. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>During the Renaissance, the crucifix changed again. Similar to previous interpretations, artists showed this Jesus with his arms outstretched, head bowed, and eyes closed. The difference, however, was a lack of suffering. This <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">depiction</span> of the crucifixion combined the elements from all of the previous crucifixes, and is the form that remains the most popular today. </div><div> </div><div>If you're looking for a crucifix, come see our collection at St. Patrick's Guild <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,440.html">here</a>.</div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-30283870334812245882009-11-20T08:27:00.000-08:002009-11-20T09:01:00.252-08:00Catholic Fun Facts<em><strong>Total Number of Popes:</strong></em> <div><div>265</div><br /><div><em><strong>Most Common Name used by Popes:</strong></em></div><div>John - There have been 23 Pope Johns</div><br /><div><strong><em>Longest Reigning Pope:</em></strong></div><div>Pope Pius IX<br />1846-1878 (31 years, 7 months, 23 days)<a href="http://schoolnet.gov.mt/liceovassalli/mav/MAV%20Zones/Students/Essays/Pope%20John%20Paul%20II.jpg"></a></div><br /><div>Pope John Paul II comes in second place </div><div>1978-2005 (26 years, 5 months, 17 days)</div><br /><br /><div><strong><em></em></strong></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 199px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 152px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://schoolnet.gov.mt/liceovassalli/mav/MAV%20Zones/Students/Essays/Pope%20John%20Paul%20II.jpg" /><br /><br /><div><strong><em>Shortest Reigning Pope:</em></strong></div><div>Pope Urban VII</div><div>Sept. 15, 1590 - Sept. 27, 1590 (13 days)</div><br /><div><strong><em>Canonized Popes:</em></strong></div><div>76 Popes have been canonized saints - Pope John Paul II is currently in the beatification process and will most likely become the 77th canonized Pope.</div><br /><div><em><strong>Number of Catholic in America:</strong></em></div><div>As of 2005, there was an estimated 66.3 million Catholics in the United States. That is approximately 22% of the total population.</div><br /><div><em><strong>Number of Catholics Worldwide:</strong></em></div><div>According to the Vatican in 2005, there were 1.086 billion Catholics worldwide. </div><br /><div><em><strong>Countries with the most Catholics:</strong></em></div><div>Brazil, Mexico, and the United States</div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-55827103182850489832009-11-18T14:21:00.000-08:002009-11-18T14:38:45.965-08:00St. Nicholas Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpysiAbbTFq0GjmZx1ruaTT52FxW4O_rSopHkYO5c1Xr9YChQQcO0vNEe9f57lW_7sRgwGRHbWqabsXYGiDf122ZhfgOkfmrYgLA-1aRcTbezj0gH-DVnjCac7VqXww99iX-KFI7hmvqK/s1600/StNicholasIcon%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405576417640838994" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 252px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpysiAbbTFq0GjmZx1ruaTT52FxW4O_rSopHkYO5c1Xr9YChQQcO0vNEe9f57lW_7sRgwGRHbWqabsXYGiDf122ZhfgOkfmrYgLA-1aRcTbezj0gH-DVnjCac7VqXww99iX-KFI7hmvqK/s320/StNicholasIcon%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>St. Nicholas is one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. He is said to be the patron saint of more causes than any other saint, but is best known as the patron saint of children. He lived during the 3rd and 4th centuries, and he is especially remembered for his generosity and gift giving. On the night before St. Nicholas Day (Dec. 6), children put a shoe out, and St. Nick comes and fills the shoe with candy and gifts. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>St. Patrick's Guild is having a special children's event on Saturday Dec. 5th to celebrate St. Nicholas Day. From 11-3, St. Nick will be in our store to take pictures! Refreshments will be served, and there are special giveaways for all of the kids. Be sure to bring your camera!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-69533564428008466022009-11-11T14:17:00.001-08:002009-11-11T14:39:36.481-08:00Gift Ideas for the Sacraments<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbBk3Lk3hdaTZ3m_4S4I-rfj7PtiJhGRU1gVMEroL-vfCTfs19KoBVaGaDLTUPx6OG4ooo8hCJm7EsYA2n7BEqKc3ZyrvnPXq6tajGg4COUliit_4z3VjU7QMCGGMo6doc5YnJ39dl5Ev/s1600-h/rosary.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5402979143858928322" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 211px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbBk3Lk3hdaTZ3m_4S4I-rfj7PtiJhGRU1gVMEroL-vfCTfs19KoBVaGaDLTUPx6OG4ooo8hCJm7EsYA2n7BEqKc3ZyrvnPXq6tajGg4COUliit_4z3VjU7QMCGGMo6doc5YnJ39dl5Ev/s320/rosary.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>It can be hard to know what kind of gift to get for someone celebrating their First Communion or Baptism. After spending the last 5 years working with religious merchandise at St. Patrick's Guild, I've come to learn what some of the best gifts are for each of the sacraments. Here are a couple of gift ideas for the next time you are celebrating a sacrament.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Baptism: <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/4,9157.html">Crib Medals</a> are a beautiful baptismal gift. With an image of a guardian angel on them, these medals serve as protection for the new baby and are a gentle reminder of God throughout the day. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Penance: With a sacrament that is focused around reflection and prayer, <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,420.html">rosaries </a>are a perfect gift.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>First Communion: There are so many options for First Communion. <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,1692.html">Personalized items</a> with the child's name and First Communion date are a wonderful way to help them remember their very special day.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Confirmation: The most popular idea for Confirmation gifts are <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,1128.html">patron saint items</a>. Find out what the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">confirmant's</span> chosen Confirmation name is, and a saint medal or statue of their chosen saint is a great gift.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I hope these ideas help. There is so much more at the St. Patrick's Guild website if you want more options. </div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4831549270529484754.post-36470167173855820972009-11-05T15:56:00.000-08:002009-11-18T14:46:39.763-08:00Meaning of the Advent Wreath<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BaZ8y-rYkK7I8qWyui2uMuQS2DwJZ8N-yVC1s2AEt5koHZrikpxCKVpDW_atbFCUqfDESbkIydLtJyzruMQQY1Y_ZYBioaHYUqO8iB1PKVovAMQwFFvr8Q-aeX-d3QPddV7VN_AnP1x3/s1600-h/advent.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400782327750609490" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 211px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BaZ8y-rYkK7I8qWyui2uMuQS2DwJZ8N-yVC1s2AEt5koHZrikpxCKVpDW_atbFCUqfDESbkIydLtJyzruMQQY1Y_ZYBioaHYUqO8iB1PKVovAMQwFFvr8Q-aeX-d3QPddV7VN_AnP1x3/s320/advent.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The Advent Wreath is a Christmas tradition that we are all familiar with, but how much do we really know about this age old practice? Each year, your church and maybe your family bring out the Advent wreath, but what is the meaning behind it? </div><br /><div>Traditionally, an Advent wreath has 4 candles - 3 purple and 1 pink. These four candles represent the four weeks of Advent which is a time of penitence and preparation. Each Sunday during Advent, a new candle is lit as a reminder of the approaching birth of Jesus. Although may different names are given to the candles, the most traditional names are:</div><br /><div>1st candle (Purple) - Prophecy Candle (Hope)</div><br /><div>2nd candle (Purple) - Bethlehem Candle (Preparation)</div><br /><div>3rd candle (Pink) - Shepherd's Candle (Joy)</div><br /><div>4th candle (Purple) - Angel's Candle (Peace and Love)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>At times, a 5th candle is added. This white candle, or central candle, is lit on Christmas Day and is known as the Christ Candle. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Advent wreath comes in many different shapes and varieties, but traditionally it was made out of evergreens. This symbolizes continuous life and is a reminder of the life that Jesus brought us. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>If you are looking for an Advent wreath of your own, we have a beautiful selection you can choose from at St. Patrick's Guild. You can find wreaths, candles, and many other Advent and Christmas items <a href="http://www.stpatricksguild.com/browse.cfm/2,2370.html">here</a>. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10235102838917308311noreply@blogger.com0