The attack on marriage is really an attack on the human person, and his dignity, for the devil seeks to pervert our true purpose, to pervert God's holy design. For many of us, we cannot march in protests or write dozens of letters or call numerous times to urge legislators to vote for the Truth. But one thing we can all do is pray and fast. We have designated one day each week to fast for these intentions:

1. That marriage may be preserved, promoted, and understood as God's plan for creation.

2. For all marriages that they may reflect the love of the Trinity.

3. For broken marriages that Christ bring healing and conversion to the spouses' souls.

4. For those who are married, for the sanctification of their marriage and their spouse. For those who are single, for their future spouse and vocation.


Thursday, January 31, 2019

February 1 Fast

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JMJ
"Whenever you give your wife advice always begin by telling her how much you love her. Nothing will persuade her so well to admit the wisdom of your words as the assurance that you are speaking with sincere affection." 
(Homily of St. John Chrysostom) 
When one enters into his vocation, he must confidently trust that God has given him the means- and spouse, as in the case of marriage- to grow in the virtues needed to achieve his purpose here on earth: sanctity. 

 Why then, does one bristle when fraternal correction or advice is offered by those who only desire their eternal happiness?  Maybe it is because of the natural embarrassment that is suffered when a hidden fault is highlighted.  Still, the deeper reason is that it strikes the entrenched pride which one pretends to deny still abides in his soul.  

 How quickly the fortress of defense is raised upon hearing unpleasant but truthful words! Truly, it matters not whether advice is given or correction is said with great tenderness for even the softest words are like tiny barbs to an overly sensitive soul.  Though difficult to accept these small humiliations, one must see these occasions with the eyes of faith, refusing to hold fast to his will and instead, see God's gentle admonishments and merciful will through the words of others. 

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