In this e-weekly:
-BEST PARISH PRACTICE is a section of the e-weekly (see below)
-Funniest Headlines (A bit of humor…)
- Living Simply ("Helpful Hints of Life")
-BEST PARISH PRACTICE is a section of the e-weekly (see below)
-Funniest Headlines (A bit of humor…)
- Living Simply ("Helpful Hints of Life")
Catholic Good News
Receiving the Gospel, Serving God and Neighbor
SILENCE-Inside and Outside
"When he broke open the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven
for about half an hour." Revelation 8:1
Receiving the Gospel, Serving God and Neighbor
SILENCE-Inside and Outside
"When he broke open the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven
for about half an hour." Revelation 8:1
Dear friends in Christ Jesus,
On the subject of Lent, the Pope indicated that "it should also be a time to abstain from words and images, because we have need of a little silence. We need to create a space free from the constant bombardment of images, ... a silent space for ourselves, without images, in order to open our hearts to the true image, the true Word".
We live in such a noisy world: car radio; music while on hold; talking here and there; our own minds racing with worries, deadlines, and more…it is no wonder people wonder where God is or even if He exists at all.
"In the eternal silences of the Holy Trinity, God spoke one Word, and He had nothing more to say."
The one Word is JESUS CHRIST! Yet God still communicates with us through the silence. Yet, we must bring about silence inside and outside ourselves that we might be able to listen. St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta offers:
"If we really want to pray, we must first learn to listen, for in the silence of the heart, God speaks. Jesus spent thirty years out of thirty-three in silence, began His public life by spending forty days in silence, and often retired alone to spend the night on a mountain in silence. He who spoke with authority, now spends His earthly life in silence. Let us adore Jesus in His Eucharistic silence!
Yes, Jesus is always waiting for us in silence. In that silence He will listen to us, there He will speak to our soul, and there we will hear His voice. Interior silence is very difficult, but we must make the effort. In silence we will find new energy and true unity. The energy of God will be ours to do all things well. We will find the true unity of our thoughts with His thoughts, the unity of our prayers with His prayers, the unity of our actions with His actions, and the unity of our life with His life."
Why wait until the next time you go to Adoration, enter the inner silence of prayer now to find true unity with HIM!
Peace and prayers in Jesus through Mary, loved by Saint Joseph,
Father Robert
P.S. This coming Sunday is the 5th Sunday of Ordinary Time. The readings can be found at: Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB
P.S.S. Please look to the end of the e-weekly for Reflections and Questions on the Sunday Readings.
On the subject of Lent, the Pope indicated that "it should also be a time to abstain from words and images, because we have need of a little silence. We need to create a space free from the constant bombardment of images, ... a silent space for ourselves, without images, in order to open our hearts to the true image, the true Word".
We live in such a noisy world: car radio; music while on hold; talking here and there; our own minds racing with worries, deadlines, and more…it is no wonder people wonder where God is or even if He exists at all.
"In the eternal silences of the Holy Trinity, God spoke one Word, and He had nothing more to say."
The one Word is JESUS CHRIST! Yet God still communicates with us through the silence. Yet, we must bring about silence inside and outside ourselves that we might be able to listen. St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta offers:
"If we really want to pray, we must first learn to listen, for in the silence of the heart, God speaks. Jesus spent thirty years out of thirty-three in silence, began His public life by spending forty days in silence, and often retired alone to spend the night on a mountain in silence. He who spoke with authority, now spends His earthly life in silence. Let us adore Jesus in His Eucharistic silence!
Yes, Jesus is always waiting for us in silence. In that silence He will listen to us, there He will speak to our soul, and there we will hear His voice. Interior silence is very difficult, but we must make the effort. In silence we will find new energy and true unity. The energy of God will be ours to do all things well. We will find the true unity of our thoughts with His thoughts, the unity of our prayers with His prayers, the unity of our actions with His actions, and the unity of our life with His life."
Why wait until the next time you go to Adoration, enter the inner silence of prayer now to find true unity with HIM!
Peace and prayers in Jesus through Mary, loved by Saint Joseph,
Father Robert
P.S. This coming Sunday is the 5th Sunday of Ordinary Time. The readings can be found at: Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB
P.S.S. Please look to the end of the e-weekly for Reflections and Questions on the Sunday Readings.
THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
265. What place does Confirmation have in the divine plan of salvation? (Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1285-1288, 1315)
a) there is nothing connected with it in the Old Testament
b) Old Testament prophets announced the Spirit on the Messiah
c) the Holy Spirit was just for the Apostles
d) none of the above
266. Why is this sacrament called Chrismation or Confirmation? (CCC 1289)
a) because it is an anointing with chrism
b) because it is the confirming of baptismal grace
c) because it is strengthens baptismal grace
d) all of the above
267. What is the essential rite of Confirmation? (CCC 1290-1301, 1318, 1320-1321)
a) choosing a Confirmation name
b) having the perfect sponsor
c) “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”
d) speaking in tongues while being prayed over
265. What place does Confirmation have in the divine plan of salvation? (Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1285-1288, 1315)
a) there is nothing connected with it in the Old Testament
b) Old Testament prophets announced the Spirit on the Messiah
c) the Holy Spirit was just for the Apostles
d) none of the above
266. Why is this sacrament called Chrismation or Confirmation? (CCC 1289)
a) because it is an anointing with chrism
b) because it is the confirming of baptismal grace
c) because it is strengthens baptismal grace
d) all of the above
267. What is the essential rite of Confirmation? (CCC 1290-1301, 1318, 1320-1321)
a) choosing a Confirmation name
b) having the perfect sponsor
c) “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”
d) speaking in tongues while being prayed over
Catholic Term
silence (from Latin silere "to be still, noiseless")
- in spiritual terms, the conscious effort to communicate with God or the invisible world of faith
[It is, therefore, not the mere absence of sound or physical stillness, except as wither a precondition for recollection of spirit or the perceptible effect of being recollected.]
Listening to the voice of the Lord "requires an atmosphere of silence. For this reason the seminary offers time and space to daily prayer; it pays great attention to liturgy, to meditation on the Word of God and to Eucharistic adoration. At the same time, it asks you to dedicate long hours to study: by praying and studying, you can create within yourselves the man of God that you must become and that people expect a priest to be"
(Pope Benedict XVI to seminarians, Feb. 2, 2008).
silence (from Latin silere "to be still, noiseless")
- in spiritual terms, the conscious effort to communicate with God or the invisible world of faith
[It is, therefore, not the mere absence of sound or physical stillness, except as wither a precondition for recollection of spirit or the perceptible effect of being recollected.]
Listening to the voice of the Lord "requires an atmosphere of silence. For this reason the seminary offers time and space to daily prayer; it pays great attention to liturgy, to meditation on the Word of God and to Eucharistic adoration. At the same time, it asks you to dedicate long hours to study: by praying and studying, you can create within yourselves the man of God that you must become and that people expect a priest to be"
(Pope Benedict XVI to seminarians, Feb. 2, 2008).
"Helpful Hints of Life"
Theresa A. Thomas
Living Simply
Living Simply
I once was visiting a beautiful home, finely furnished with exquisite furniture, lovely artwork and impeccable décor. However, the heavy draperies around the windows blocked most of the natural light in the rooms, and left an atmosphere of heaviness and, quite frankly, suffocation. Although the home was beautiful I couldn't wait to leave and enjoy the freshness and plainness of the light and air outside.
I can't help but think, as we enter into this season of Lent, about the "heaviness," the complications of everyday life, that have the potential to snuff out the fresh light and air of Christ in our lives.
What am I talking about? I'm talking about living simply. Obviously Lent is a time for penance, reflection, renewal. It's a time for introspection and consideration of things eternal. What I'm proposing this Lent is paring down life, getting rid of the 'heavy draperies' so that things eternal can shine into our daily thoughts and lives.
How can simplicity of life be accomplished? I'm going to offer a formula set forth by philosopher and professor Peter Kreeft in his classic 1990 book, Making Choices: Practical Wisdom for Everyday Moral Decisions. (It's rated a full five stars on Amazon.com. Buy it there or at your local Catholic bookstore. I promise you won't be disappointed.)
First, attain mastery over time. The clock should not be our god. It is true we need to watch the clock to make it to work, keep our dentist appointments, and get to Mass on time. However, American society is too focused on schedules. Take time to get at eye level with your child and really listen. Make time for 'date night' with your mate. Do one thing at a time. Do not worry about work when you are home with your family or your home projects when you are at work. Think about the one thing you are currently doing and do it well. (Kreeft bluntly tells his readers to stop "octopussing" — trying to do eight things at once. I might add that some of us are likely even "jellyfishing." Did you know some jellyfish have hundreds of tentacles?) Slow down and here's the biggie: pray... without watching a clock. God is the creator of time, reminds Kreeft. God can multiply time, but first we must offer our time to Him. And it is good to remember that God cannot be outdone in generosity. He will take our sacrifice and bless us a thousand fold. A good place to start this Lent is going to Confession and attending other Catholic devotions such as Eucharistic Adoration or Stations of the Cross. Like the Nike commercial advocates, "Just do it."
Second, live more naturally. Go to bed earlier and get up earlier, following nature's cycle of darkness and light. Kreeft says this aids in simplicity because the things people do in the morning are usually simple things — walking, praying, and tidying up. And the things people do in the evening or more complicating (or time-wasting) — busywork, attending parties, watching television. Spend more time outdoors (yes, even in the winter!) Breathe in the fresh air. And take walks frequently. Kreeft writes, "[When you walk] you will begin to recapture the natural rhythms of the body...It attunes us with the earth and air...It is a symbol of life, the road to eternity... And it gives us an opportunity to think."
Third, recognize that often less is more. Don't just give up sweets this Lent. Take less food. Chew it slowly. Savor its flavor deliberately. Enjoy it more. We've all seen women who have overdone it in the jewelry and make-up departments. They have baubles and beads on every limb, and layers of gold or silver around their necks. Heavy eye shadow and lip color emphasizes their faces. Who can deny that this actually detracts from a woman's natural beauty? Contrast that image with simple cleanliness and light makeup, a plain cross necklace and a pair of simple earrings on a female. One young woman I knew in college gave up make-up for Lent. That's probably considered radical in our American culture, and I don't know very many women who would do that for forty whole days, but it is a good idea to eliminate extra things. Less truly is often more.
Fourth, decrease expenses. We don't need half of what we want anyway. Love of money is the root of all evil. See what you can do without.
Fifth, embrace silence. Kreeft calls silence "the unknown power source...the great untapped resource." He says that silence is more, not less than noise. Cultivate inner silence by eliminating outer noise. Turn off the television. Skip the radio in the car. Listen more. Talk less. God speaks to us all the time, but often with the cacophonic sounds intruding into our lives we just don't hear Him.
Simplifying life truly is like pulling back or even taking down thick draperies in a stuffy, dark room. In removing the fabric that blocks luminosity we will find more light, more freshness, and quite likely more room for God.
Theresa Thomas, a freelance writer and columnist for Today's Catholic resides in northern Indiana with her husband David and their nine children. She has been home schooling since 1994
"Contemplative prayer is silence, the "symbol of the world to come" or "silent love." Words in this kind of prayer are not speeches; they are like kindling that feeds the fire of love. In this silence, unbearable to the "outer" man, the Father speaks to us his incarnate Word, who suffered, died, and rose; in this silence the Spirit of adoption enables us to share in the prayer of Jesus."
-Catechism of the Catholic Church #2717
Catholic Answers is an apostolate dedicated to serving Christ by bringing the fullness of Catholic truth to the world. It helps Catholics and everyone better understand the Catholic Faith, and directly answers challenges and questions.
BEST PARISH PRACTICES
BULLETINS FROM SURROUNDING PARISHES
Post bulletins from surrounding parishes in your church vestibule or gathering space.
BENEFITS:
Making available bulletins from nearby parishes blesses your parish in many ways. It helps keep you informed of the prayer, work, and news of nearby Catholics. It offers their Mass times/Confession schedule, if parishioners cannot make your parish's. It gives a broader Church perspective to let parishioners see that Catholicism is bigger than 'my parish.' It can give good ideas to your parish and parishioners.
HOW?
Ask your Parish Priest if this is okay to do. The parish can then contact nearby parishes to send their bulletins via e-mail or direct one to them online. Then they can be printed out (or nearby parish may mail them to you) [even just one to read is enough] and placed in the church vestibule or gathering area and people can be made aware of their presence for reading and edification.
Sr. Nathalie Becquart (third from left) poses with Pope Francis and others during the youth synod in 2018.
(photo: Daniel Ibanez/CNA / EWTN)
(photo: Daniel Ibanez/CNA / EWTN)
VATICAN CITY— Pope Francis Saturday appointed a Spanish priest and a French religious sister as under-secretaries of the Synod of Bishops.
It is the first time a woman has held a position of this level within the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
Fr. Luis Marín de San Martín and Sr. Nathalie Becquart will replace Bishop Fabio Fabene, who was named secretary of the Congregation for the Causes of the Saints in January.
Working with and under secretary general Bishop Mario Grech, Fr. Marín and Sr. Becquart will prepare the Vatican’s forthcoming synod on synodality, scheduled for October 2022.
In an interview with Vatican News, Bishop Grech said in this position, Sr. Becquart will vote in future synods alongside other voting members, who are bishops, priests, and some religious men.
During the 2018 youth synod, some people asked why religious and consecrated women could not vote on the synod’s final document.
According to the canonical norms governing synods of bishops, only clerics - that is deacons, priests, or bishops - can be voting members.
Bishop Grech noted Feb. 6 that “during the last Synods, numerous synodal fathers emphasized the need that the entire Church reflect on the place and role of women within the Church.”
“Even Pope Francis highlighted several times the importance that women be more involved in the processes of discernment and decision making in the Church,” he said. “Already in the last synods, the number of women participating as experts or auditors increased. With the appointment of Sr Nathalie Becquart, and the possibility that she will participate with the right to vote, a door has been open,” Grech stated. “We will then see what other steps could be taken in the future.”
Sr. Nathalie Becquart, 51, has been a member of the Congregation of Xavieres since 1995.
She has been one of five consultors, four of whom are women, to the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops, since 2019.
Because of her extensive background in youth ministry, Sr. Becquart was involved in the preparation for the Synod of Bishops on young people, faith, and vocational discernment in 2018, was general coordinator of a pre-synod meeting, and took part as an auditor. She was the director of the French bishops’ national service for the evangelization of young people and for vocations from 2012 to 2018.
Fr. Marín, 59, is from Madrid, Spain, and a priest of the Order of St. Augustine. He is an assistant general and archivist general of the Augustinians, based out of the order’s general curia in Rome, which is located just outside St. Peter’s Square in Rome.
He is also president of the Institutum Spiritualitatis Augustinianae.
A professor of theology, Fr. Marín has taught at a university and several Augustinian centers in Spain. He has also been a seminary formator, provincial counselor, and prior of a monastery.
As under-secretary of the Synod of Bishops, Fr. Marín will become the titular bishop of the see of Suliana.
Bishop Grech said Fr. Marín “has a vast experience in accompanying communities in decision making processes and his knowledge of the Second Vatican Council will be precious so that the roots of the synodal way remain always present.” He also noted that the appointment of Fr. Marín and Sr. Becquart will “undoubtedly” lead to other changes in the structure of the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
“I would like that the three of us, and all of the staff of the Synod Secretariat, work out of the same spirit of collaboration and experience a new style of ‘synodal’ leadership,” he said, “a leadership of service that is less clerical and hierarchical, that allows participation and co-responsibility without at the same time abdicating the responsibilities entrusted to them.”
It is the first time a woman has held a position of this level within the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
Fr. Luis Marín de San Martín and Sr. Nathalie Becquart will replace Bishop Fabio Fabene, who was named secretary of the Congregation for the Causes of the Saints in January.
Working with and under secretary general Bishop Mario Grech, Fr. Marín and Sr. Becquart will prepare the Vatican’s forthcoming synod on synodality, scheduled for October 2022.
In an interview with Vatican News, Bishop Grech said in this position, Sr. Becquart will vote in future synods alongside other voting members, who are bishops, priests, and some religious men.
During the 2018 youth synod, some people asked why religious and consecrated women could not vote on the synod’s final document.
According to the canonical norms governing synods of bishops, only clerics - that is deacons, priests, or bishops - can be voting members.
Bishop Grech noted Feb. 6 that “during the last Synods, numerous synodal fathers emphasized the need that the entire Church reflect on the place and role of women within the Church.”
“Even Pope Francis highlighted several times the importance that women be more involved in the processes of discernment and decision making in the Church,” he said. “Already in the last synods, the number of women participating as experts or auditors increased. With the appointment of Sr Nathalie Becquart, and the possibility that she will participate with the right to vote, a door has been open,” Grech stated. “We will then see what other steps could be taken in the future.”
Sr. Nathalie Becquart, 51, has been a member of the Congregation of Xavieres since 1995.
She has been one of five consultors, four of whom are women, to the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops, since 2019.
Because of her extensive background in youth ministry, Sr. Becquart was involved in the preparation for the Synod of Bishops on young people, faith, and vocational discernment in 2018, was general coordinator of a pre-synod meeting, and took part as an auditor. She was the director of the French bishops’ national service for the evangelization of young people and for vocations from 2012 to 2018.
Fr. Marín, 59, is from Madrid, Spain, and a priest of the Order of St. Augustine. He is an assistant general and archivist general of the Augustinians, based out of the order’s general curia in Rome, which is located just outside St. Peter’s Square in Rome.
He is also president of the Institutum Spiritualitatis Augustinianae.
A professor of theology, Fr. Marín has taught at a university and several Augustinian centers in Spain. He has also been a seminary formator, provincial counselor, and prior of a monastery.
As under-secretary of the Synod of Bishops, Fr. Marín will become the titular bishop of the see of Suliana.
Bishop Grech said Fr. Marín “has a vast experience in accompanying communities in decision making processes and his knowledge of the Second Vatican Council will be precious so that the roots of the synodal way remain always present.” He also noted that the appointment of Fr. Marín and Sr. Becquart will “undoubtedly” lead to other changes in the structure of the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops.
“I would like that the three of us, and all of the staff of the Synod Secretariat, work out of the same spirit of collaboration and experience a new style of ‘synodal’ leadership,” he said, “a leadership of service that is less clerical and hierarchical, that allows participation and co-responsibility without at the same time abdicating the responsibilities entrusted to them.”
Sister André Randon, France 3 Provence-Alpes Côte d'Azur, YouTubeDaughter of Charity Sister André Randon just turned 116.
She is the oldest person in Europe and the second-oldest person in the world. 117-year-old Japanese woman Kane Tanaka is the only person to surpass her in age.
Born Lucile Randon on Feb. 11, 1904, Sr. André converted to Catholicism at age 19. At age 25, she began caring for elderly and orphans at a French hospital. She later entered the Daughters of Charity at age 40.
Although she joined the convent late in life, her vocation has lasted for 76 years!
Sr. André moved in 2009 to Sainte-Catherine Labouré retirement home in Toulon, France, where she spent her 116th birthday with family and friends.
Born Lucile Randon on Feb. 11, 1904, Sr. André converted to Catholicism at age 19. At age 25, she began caring for elderly and orphans at a French hospital. She later entered the Daughters of Charity at age 40.
Although she joined the convent late in life, her vocation has lasted for 76 years!
Sr. André moved in 2009 to Sainte-Catherine Labouré retirement home in Toulon, France, where she spent her 116th birthday with family and friends.
Sister André Randon, Vatican NewsAdditionally, for her 115th birthday, Pope Francis sent her a personal letter, along with a blessed Rosary.
Sr. Andre’s SecretHer secret recipe for happiness?
“Pray and drink a cup of chocolate every day.”
She also said her “daily happiness is being able to go and pray.”
Although blind and in a wheelchair, Sr. André never loses her sense of humor and always asks for prayers, saying that she “hopes God won’t be too slow to let her wait any longer…”
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http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/despite-grave-problems-the-lord-will-never-abandon-his-church
“Pray and drink a cup of chocolate every day.”
She also said her “daily happiness is being able to go and pray.”
Although blind and in a wheelchair, Sr. André never loses her sense of humor and always asks for prayers, saying that she “hopes God won’t be too slow to let her wait any longer…”
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http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/despite-grave-problems-the-lord-will-never-abandon-his-church
Despite Grave Problems, the Lord Will Never Abandon His Church - ncregister.com
THE EDITORS What to Expect From the Vatican Summit? CARDINAL WILFRID NAPIER Love, Care and Justice Must Be Paramount: MARIE COLLINS Plea for Commitment and Transparency
www.ncregister.com
THE EDITORS What to Expect From the Vatican Summit? CARDINAL WILFRID NAPIER Love, Care and Justice Must Be Paramount: MARIE COLLINS Plea for Commitment and Transparency
www.ncregister.com
The home of Nazareth is the school where we begin to understand the life of Jesus - the school of the Gospel. First, then, a lesson of silence. May esteem for silence, that admirable and indispensable condition of mind, revive in us. . . A lesson on family life. -Catechism of the Catholic Church #533
A bit of humor…
Some Thoughts:
-Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
-Don't trust atoms, they make up everything.
- We live in an age where mentioning you read a book seems a little bit like you're showing off.
- I just let my mind wander, and it didn't come back.
- If it ain't broke, I haven't borrowed it yet.
THE YEAR'S BEST [actual] HEADLINES
Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says
[No, really?]
Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
[Now that's taking things a bit far!]
Miners Refuse to Work after Death
[No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so!]
Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant
[Well if nothing else works!]
War Dims Hope for Peace
[I can see where it might have that effect!]
If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile
[Tell me some more of your deep thoughts.]
Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures
[We need more evidence before you go jumping to conclusions!]
-Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
-Don't trust atoms, they make up everything.
- We live in an age where mentioning you read a book seems a little bit like you're showing off.
- I just let my mind wander, and it didn't come back.
- If it ain't broke, I haven't borrowed it yet.
THE YEAR'S BEST [actual] HEADLINES
Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says
[No, really?]
Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
[Now that's taking things a bit far!]
Miners Refuse to Work after Death
[No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so!]
Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant
[Well if nothing else works!]
War Dims Hope for Peace
[I can see where it might have that effect!]
If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile
[Tell me some more of your deep thoughts.]
Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures
[We need more evidence before you go jumping to conclusions!]
A Prayer for Silence
Lady, Queen of Heaven,
pray me into solitude and silence and unity,
that all my ways may be immaculate in God.
Let me be content with whatever darkness surrounds me,
finding Him always by me, in His mercy.
Let me keep silence in this world,
except in so far as God wills and in the way he wills it.
Amen.
-Thomas Merton
[This is a weekly electronic newsletter from Father Robert, the Pastor of St. Mary Parish and St. Sebastian Parish. This will be sent out weekly. Please recommend this to individuals you think might be interested. Any suggestions or comments are welcomed, or if you wish to no longer receive this please e-mail: Roman.Catholic.Good.News@gmail.com]
Homily from Ash Wednesday
[SILENT PAUSE FOR ABOUT 15-20 SECONDS]
In the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
Silence…it can be a scary place. Whether it's in an elevator with someone else you're wondering if you need to say something to break the silence, or you're at the stoplight and you have time before it changes, the silence of a car trip, or whether it's at Mass at some point before or after, there is silence in our lives.
However, most of us are uncomfortable with silence. We think we have to fill it say with some words, turn on the radio, or think of something to occupy the time as if it is wasted in silence. Even the short silence that I had before this I heard somebody whispering I saw people looking around. We don't know what to do with silence, but it is to the silence that we must go to during this Lenten season. We must find that which is to be found therein, more importantly Whois to be found in the silence.
In the silence in the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
That one Word is Jesus…Jesus…Jesus. He who spends Himself in silence…The silence of the Eucharist…The silence of the 40 days in the desert. The silence of the one who does not speak in the Sacred Scriptures, who is silent until someone speaks them in a word of proclamation.
Silence is where you and I must go these 40 days. Silence must be the place that we strive to penetrate. It will take courage; it will take faith, but if we do, dear brothers and sisters, we will find Jesus; we will find conversion; we will leave our selfish selves to become the generous givers to God and neighbor and then we will no longer fear the silence, (or any one or anything.)
"Today a great silence reigns on earth, a great silence and a great stillness. A great silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. . . He has gone to search for Adam, our first father, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow Adam in his bonds and Eve, captive with him - He who is both their God and the son of Eve. . . "I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. . . I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #635
Lady, Queen of Heaven,
pray me into solitude and silence and unity,
that all my ways may be immaculate in God.
Let me be content with whatever darkness surrounds me,
finding Him always by me, in His mercy.
Let me keep silence in this world,
except in so far as God wills and in the way he wills it.
Amen.
-Thomas Merton
[This is a weekly electronic newsletter from Father Robert, the Pastor of St. Mary Parish and St. Sebastian Parish. This will be sent out weekly. Please recommend this to individuals you think might be interested. Any suggestions or comments are welcomed, or if you wish to no longer receive this please e-mail: Roman.Catholic.Good.News@gmail.com]
Homily from Ash Wednesday
[SILENT PAUSE FOR ABOUT 15-20 SECONDS]
In the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
Silence…it can be a scary place. Whether it's in an elevator with someone else you're wondering if you need to say something to break the silence, or you're at the stoplight and you have time before it changes, the silence of a car trip, or whether it's at Mass at some point before or after, there is silence in our lives.
However, most of us are uncomfortable with silence. We think we have to fill it say with some words, turn on the radio, or think of something to occupy the time as if it is wasted in silence. Even the short silence that I had before this I heard somebody whispering I saw people looking around. We don't know what to do with silence, but it is to the silence that we must go to during this Lenten season. We must find that which is to be found therein, more importantly Whois to be found in the silence.
In the silence in the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
That one Word is Jesus…Jesus…Jesus. He who spends Himself in silence…The silence of the Eucharist…The silence of the 40 days in the desert. The silence of the one who does not speak in the Sacred Scriptures, who is silent until someone speaks them in a word of proclamation.
Silence is where you and I must go these 40 days. Silence must be the place that we strive to penetrate. It will take courage; it will take faith, but if we do, dear brothers and sisters, we will find Jesus; we will find conversion; we will leave our selfish selves to become the generous givers to God and neighbor and then we will no longer fear the silence, (or any one or anything.)
"Today a great silence reigns on earth, a great silence and a great stillness. A great silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. . . He has gone to search for Adam, our first father, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow Adam in his bonds and Eve, captive with him - He who is both their God and the son of Eve. . . "I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. . . I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #635
A Prayer for Silence
Lady, Queen of Heaven,
pray me into solitude and silence and unity,
that all my ways may be immaculate in God.
Let me be content with whatever darkness surrounds me,
finding Him always by me, in His mercy.
Let me keep silence in this world,
except in so far as God wills and in the way he wills it.
Amen.
-Thomas Merton
[This is a weekly electronic newsletter from Father Robert, the Pastor of St. Mary Parish and St. Sebastian Parish. This will be sent out weekly. Please recommend this to individuals you think might be interested. Any suggestions or comments are welcomed, or if you wish to no longer receive this please e-mail: Roman.Catholic.Good.News@gmail.com]
Homily from Ash Wednesday
[SILENT PAUSE FOR ABOUT 15-20 SECONDS]
In the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
Silence…it can be a scary place. Whether it's in an elevator with someone else you're wondering if you need to say something to break the silence, or you're at the stoplight and you have time before it changes, the silence of a car trip, or whether it's at Mass at some point before or after, there is silence in our lives.
However, most of us are uncomfortable with silence. We think we have to fill it say with some words, turn on the radio, or think of something to occupy the time as if it is wasted in silence. Even the short silence that I had before this I heard somebody whispering I saw people looking around. We don't know what to do with silence, but it is to the silence that we must go to during this Lenten season. We must find that which is to be found therein, more importantly Who is to be found in the silence.
In the silence in the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
That one Word is Jesus…Jesus…Jesus. He who spends Himself in silence…The silence of the Eucharist…The silence of the 40 days in the desert. The silence of the one who does not speak in the Sacred Scriptures, who is silent until someone speaks them in a word of proclamation.
Silence is where you and I must go these 40 days. Silence must be the place that we strive to penetrate. It will take courage; it will take faith, but if we do, dear brothers and sisters, we will find Jesus; we will find conversion; we will leave our selfish selves to become the generous givers to God and neighbor and then we will no longer fear the silence, (or any one or anything.)
"Today a great silence reigns on earth, a great silence and a great stillness. A great silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. . . He has gone to search for Adam, our first father, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow Adam in his bonds and Eve, captive with him - He who is both their God and the son of Eve. . . "I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. . . I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #635
+JMJ+
SUNDAY MASS READINGS AND QUESTIONS
for Self-Reflection, Couples or Family Discussion
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sunday, February 7, 2021
The First Reading - Job 7:1-4, 6-7
Job spoke, saying: Is not man’s life on earth a drudgery? Are not his days those of hirelings? He is a slave who longs for the shade, a hireling who waits for his wages. So I have been assigned months of misery, and troubled nights have been allotted to me. If in bed I say, “When shall I arise?” then the night drags on; I am filled with restlessness until the dawn. My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle; they come to an end without hope. Remember that my life is like the wind; I shall not see happiness again.
Reflection
The background of the story of Job is this: Job, a pious and blameless man, is perfectly happy and contented. Satan implies to the angels of God’s court that Job’s virtue is not genuine. So, God permits Job to be tested. Blow after blow falls upon Job, depriving him of his possessions and his children. But Job remains faithful, and then is attacked personally; he becomes gravely ill and disfigured. However, he accepts with resignation the physical evil which God sends him, just as he had previously accepted the contentment he enjoyed. Such is Job’s faith that Satan is defeated. But Job’s suffering is so great that he utters a cry of lament (not of despair) when his friends try to console him. Job’s friends consider his suffering to be a punishment for sin, which was the common view at the time, but Job insists that he is blameless. The friends invite him to recognize his fault and beg God’s forgiveness. Although not claiming to be completely free from sin, Job maintains that the suffering is far greater than his faults deserve. Although he knows that God is just, he doesn’t understand why God is sending him all these sufferings. Eventually it is learned that God sends evils and sufferings not only to punish people; their primary purpose is to purify man of his faults and prevent him from committing worse sins.
Adults - Do you reach out to the Lord when you suffer?
Teens - Sometimes it can seem like God is unaware of our sufferings. This is certainly not the case. Remember to talk to the Lord always - even when you are facing trials.
Kids - How does God help us in times of suffering?
Responsorial- Psalm 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted..
Praise the LORD, for he is good;
sing praise to our God, for he is gracious;
it is fitting to praise him.
The LORD rebuilds Jerusalem;
the dispersed of Israel he gathers.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.
He tells the number of the stars;
he calls each by name.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
to his wisdom there is no limit.
The LORD sustains the lowly;
the wicked he casts to the ground.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
Reflection
Remember that the Lord is with you always, even in your trials. How has God healed your heart?
The Second Reading- 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23
Brothers and sisters: If I preach the gospel, this is no reason for me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it! If I do so willingly, I have a recompense, but if unwillingly, then I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What then is my recompense? That, when I preach, I offer the gospel free of charge so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. Although I am free in regard to all, I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible. To the weak I became weak, to win over the weak. I have become all things to all, to save at least some. All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it.
Reflection - The Council of Jerusalem, which took place around A.D. 48-50, had written to the Christians of Antioch, Syria and Cilicia telling them to abstain from food which had been sacrificed to idols (Acts 15:23-29). When Saint Paul was preaching in Corinth two years later, he may not have said anything on the subject, given the very pagan environment of the area – much different from Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. If the faithful at Corinth had to avoid meat of this kind, they would have had to isolate themselves from their fellow citizens. In replying to this question Saint Paul first explains the general principles that apply: They may eat meat of this type, for idols have no real existence, but sometimes charity requires that they abstain from it; if it was thought that it would lead a new convert back to paganism for example by corrupting the conscience. Paul then illustrates what he says by telling what he himself does. It is from this illustration that our reading comes.
-How can you live your life so as not to corrupt the conscience of others?
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 1:29-39
On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them. When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons. The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him. Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. Simon and those who were with him pursued him and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” So he went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.
Reflection Jesus is early in His public ministry. He has begun to gather His disciples around him and He has gone to Capernaum and has taught in the synagogue where He astonished all present with His teaching: He teaches like one in authority, not like the scribes (He says “I 4 say to you,” not “the law says”). He speaks of what He knows and testifies to what He has seen (John 3:11). He does, and then preaches, unlike those who teach but do not do (Matthew 23:1-5). While at the synagogue, Jesus also heals a man who is possessed by an evil spirit. In doing this He gives the residents of Capernaum a very clear sign that God’s salvation has come: By overcoming the evil one, Jesus shows that He is the messiah, the savior, one more powerful than demons. Our reading for today immediately follows this event.
Adults - Jesus goes off to a deserted place to pray. Do we make time for silence in our lives to hear God?
Teens - Jesus spends much time in prayer. How can we follow His example?
Kids - Do you have a set daily prayer time? If not, think of a time you can spend with the Lord every day!
LIVING THE WORD OF GOD THIS WEEK! - This is the good news Christ brought to our world. This is the meaning of Christianity; this is why we are Christians. We are members of Christ's kingdom on earth, so that when our life here ends we shall be members of his everlasting heavenly kingdom. Yet, with all of this knowledge and with the example of the thousands and millions of saints who have lived according to this knowledge over the past nineteen hundred years and more, and who are now enjoying the reward Christianity promised them, how active and how effective is our Christian faith in our daily thoughts and deeds? In my daily dealings with my fellowmen would I be picked out as a Christian? Do I, by my words and deeds, prove to those with whom I live and work that I am convinced there is a future life after death, that reaching that life is the most important thing in this world for me, and that it is through living my short earthly life as a true Christian that I can earn that eternal life?
THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
265. What place does Confirmation have in the divine plan of salvation? b) Old Testament prophets announced the Spirit on the Messiah
In the Old Testament the prophets announced that the Spirit of the Lord would rest on the awaited Messiah and on the entire messianic people. The whole life and mission of Jesus were carried out in total communion with the Holy Spirit. The apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and proclaimed “the great works of God” (Acts 2:11). They gave the gift of the same Spirit to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands. Down through the centuries, the Church has continued to live by the Spirit and to impart him to her children.
266. Why is this sacrament called Chrismation or Confirmation? d) all of the above
It is called Chrismation (in the Eastern Churches: Anointing with holy myron or chrism) because the essential rite of the sacrament is anointing with chrism. It is called Confirmation because it confirms and strengthens baptismal grace.
267. What is the essential rite of Confirmation? c) “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”
The essential rite of Confirmation is the anointing with Sacred Chrism (oil mixed with balsam and consecrated by the bishop), which is done by the laying on of the hand of the minister who pronounces the sacramental words proper to the rite. In the West this anointing is done on the forehead of the baptized with the words, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”. In the Eastern Churches of the Byzantine rite this anointing is also done on other parts of the body with the words, “The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit”.
Lady, Queen of Heaven,
pray me into solitude and silence and unity,
that all my ways may be immaculate in God.
Let me be content with whatever darkness surrounds me,
finding Him always by me, in His mercy.
Let me keep silence in this world,
except in so far as God wills and in the way he wills it.
Amen.
-Thomas Merton
[This is a weekly electronic newsletter from Father Robert, the Pastor of St. Mary Parish and St. Sebastian Parish. This will be sent out weekly. Please recommend this to individuals you think might be interested. Any suggestions or comments are welcomed, or if you wish to no longer receive this please e-mail: Roman.Catholic.Good.News@gmail.com]
Homily from Ash Wednesday
[SILENT PAUSE FOR ABOUT 15-20 SECONDS]
In the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
Silence…it can be a scary place. Whether it's in an elevator with someone else you're wondering if you need to say something to break the silence, or you're at the stoplight and you have time before it changes, the silence of a car trip, or whether it's at Mass at some point before or after, there is silence in our lives.
However, most of us are uncomfortable with silence. We think we have to fill it say with some words, turn on the radio, or think of something to occupy the time as if it is wasted in silence. Even the short silence that I had before this I heard somebody whispering I saw people looking around. We don't know what to do with silence, but it is to the silence that we must go to during this Lenten season. We must find that which is to be found therein, more importantly Who is to be found in the silence.
In the silence in the eternal silences of the Trinity God spoke one Word and He had nothing more to say.
That one Word is Jesus…Jesus…Jesus. He who spends Himself in silence…The silence of the Eucharist…The silence of the 40 days in the desert. The silence of the one who does not speak in the Sacred Scriptures, who is silent until someone speaks them in a word of proclamation.
Silence is where you and I must go these 40 days. Silence must be the place that we strive to penetrate. It will take courage; it will take faith, but if we do, dear brothers and sisters, we will find Jesus; we will find conversion; we will leave our selfish selves to become the generous givers to God and neighbor and then we will no longer fear the silence, (or any one or anything.)
"Today a great silence reigns on earth, a great silence and a great stillness. A great silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. . . He has gone to search for Adam, our first father, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow Adam in his bonds and Eve, captive with him - He who is both their God and the son of Eve. . . "I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. . . I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #635
+JMJ+
SUNDAY MASS READINGS AND QUESTIONS
for Self-Reflection, Couples or Family Discussion
5th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sunday, February 7, 2021
The First Reading - Job 7:1-4, 6-7
Job spoke, saying: Is not man’s life on earth a drudgery? Are not his days those of hirelings? He is a slave who longs for the shade, a hireling who waits for his wages. So I have been assigned months of misery, and troubled nights have been allotted to me. If in bed I say, “When shall I arise?” then the night drags on; I am filled with restlessness until the dawn. My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle; they come to an end without hope. Remember that my life is like the wind; I shall not see happiness again.
Reflection
The background of the story of Job is this: Job, a pious and blameless man, is perfectly happy and contented. Satan implies to the angels of God’s court that Job’s virtue is not genuine. So, God permits Job to be tested. Blow after blow falls upon Job, depriving him of his possessions and his children. But Job remains faithful, and then is attacked personally; he becomes gravely ill and disfigured. However, he accepts with resignation the physical evil which God sends him, just as he had previously accepted the contentment he enjoyed. Such is Job’s faith that Satan is defeated. But Job’s suffering is so great that he utters a cry of lament (not of despair) when his friends try to console him. Job’s friends consider his suffering to be a punishment for sin, which was the common view at the time, but Job insists that he is blameless. The friends invite him to recognize his fault and beg God’s forgiveness. Although not claiming to be completely free from sin, Job maintains that the suffering is far greater than his faults deserve. Although he knows that God is just, he doesn’t understand why God is sending him all these sufferings. Eventually it is learned that God sends evils and sufferings not only to punish people; their primary purpose is to purify man of his faults and prevent him from committing worse sins.
Adults - Do you reach out to the Lord when you suffer?
Teens - Sometimes it can seem like God is unaware of our sufferings. This is certainly not the case. Remember to talk to the Lord always - even when you are facing trials.
Kids - How does God help us in times of suffering?
Responsorial- Psalm 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted..
Praise the LORD, for he is good;
sing praise to our God, for he is gracious;
it is fitting to praise him.
The LORD rebuilds Jerusalem;
the dispersed of Israel he gathers.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.
He tells the number of the stars;
he calls each by name.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
to his wisdom there is no limit.
The LORD sustains the lowly;
the wicked he casts to the ground.
R. Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.
Reflection
Remember that the Lord is with you always, even in your trials. How has God healed your heart?
The Second Reading- 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23
Brothers and sisters: If I preach the gospel, this is no reason for me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it! If I do so willingly, I have a recompense, but if unwillingly, then I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What then is my recompense? That, when I preach, I offer the gospel free of charge so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. Although I am free in regard to all, I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible. To the weak I became weak, to win over the weak. I have become all things to all, to save at least some. All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it.
Reflection - The Council of Jerusalem, which took place around A.D. 48-50, had written to the Christians of Antioch, Syria and Cilicia telling them to abstain from food which had been sacrificed to idols (Acts 15:23-29). When Saint Paul was preaching in Corinth two years later, he may not have said anything on the subject, given the very pagan environment of the area – much different from Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. If the faithful at Corinth had to avoid meat of this kind, they would have had to isolate themselves from their fellow citizens. In replying to this question Saint Paul first explains the general principles that apply: They may eat meat of this type, for idols have no real existence, but sometimes charity requires that they abstain from it; if it was thought that it would lead a new convert back to paganism for example by corrupting the conscience. Paul then illustrates what he says by telling what he himself does. It is from this illustration that our reading comes.
-How can you live your life so as not to corrupt the conscience of others?
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 1:29-39
On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them. When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons. The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him. Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. Simon and those who were with him pursued him and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” So he went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.
Reflection Jesus is early in His public ministry. He has begun to gather His disciples around him and He has gone to Capernaum and has taught in the synagogue where He astonished all present with His teaching: He teaches like one in authority, not like the scribes (He says “I 4 say to you,” not “the law says”). He speaks of what He knows and testifies to what He has seen (John 3:11). He does, and then preaches, unlike those who teach but do not do (Matthew 23:1-5). While at the synagogue, Jesus also heals a man who is possessed by an evil spirit. In doing this He gives the residents of Capernaum a very clear sign that God’s salvation has come: By overcoming the evil one, Jesus shows that He is the messiah, the savior, one more powerful than demons. Our reading for today immediately follows this event.
Adults - Jesus goes off to a deserted place to pray. Do we make time for silence in our lives to hear God?
Teens - Jesus spends much time in prayer. How can we follow His example?
Kids - Do you have a set daily prayer time? If not, think of a time you can spend with the Lord every day!
LIVING THE WORD OF GOD THIS WEEK! - This is the good news Christ brought to our world. This is the meaning of Christianity; this is why we are Christians. We are members of Christ's kingdom on earth, so that when our life here ends we shall be members of his everlasting heavenly kingdom. Yet, with all of this knowledge and with the example of the thousands and millions of saints who have lived according to this knowledge over the past nineteen hundred years and more, and who are now enjoying the reward Christianity promised them, how active and how effective is our Christian faith in our daily thoughts and deeds? In my daily dealings with my fellowmen would I be picked out as a Christian? Do I, by my words and deeds, prove to those with whom I live and work that I am convinced there is a future life after death, that reaching that life is the most important thing in this world for me, and that it is through living my short earthly life as a true Christian that I can earn that eternal life?
THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
265. What place does Confirmation have in the divine plan of salvation? b) Old Testament prophets announced the Spirit on the Messiah
In the Old Testament the prophets announced that the Spirit of the Lord would rest on the awaited Messiah and on the entire messianic people. The whole life and mission of Jesus were carried out in total communion with the Holy Spirit. The apostles received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and proclaimed “the great works of God” (Acts 2:11). They gave the gift of the same Spirit to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands. Down through the centuries, the Church has continued to live by the Spirit and to impart him to her children.
266. Why is this sacrament called Chrismation or Confirmation? d) all of the above
It is called Chrismation (in the Eastern Churches: Anointing with holy myron or chrism) because the essential rite of the sacrament is anointing with chrism. It is called Confirmation because it confirms and strengthens baptismal grace.
267. What is the essential rite of Confirmation? c) “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”
The essential rite of Confirmation is the anointing with Sacred Chrism (oil mixed with balsam and consecrated by the bishop), which is done by the laying on of the hand of the minister who pronounces the sacramental words proper to the rite. In the West this anointing is done on the forehead of the baptized with the words, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit”. In the Eastern Churches of the Byzantine rite this anointing is also done on other parts of the body with the words, “The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit”.
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