+JMJ+
In this e-weekly:- The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus ("Helpful Hints of Life")
- Things You Will Probably Never Hear Catholics Say… (Smiling Cat Section)
- The Eucharistic Revival Starts (News Section)
In this e-weekly:- The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus ("Helpful Hints of Life")
- Things You Will Probably Never Hear Catholics Say… (Smiling Cat Section)
- The Eucharistic Revival Starts (News Section)
Catholic Good News
Receiving the Gospel, Serving God and Neighbor
FIRST FRIDAYS
"But one of the soldiers with a spear opened his side,
and immediately there came out blood and water." -John 19:34
Receiving the Gospel, Serving God and Neighbor
FIRST FRIDAYS
"But one of the soldiers with a spear opened his side,
and immediately there came out blood and water." -John 19:34
Dear friends in Christ Jesus,
Friday, July 3rd marked the continuing of 9 consecutive FIRST FRIDAYS which our Lord asked through St. Margaret Mary that can be offered to His Sacred Heart for special graces and benefit to humanity, especially individuals.
12. The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour. –Jesus Christ
The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. God's love has been enfleshed in the human heart of Jesus, which we call His Sacred Heart because from it gushed "immediately blood and water. (John 19:34)" Holy Water in Baptism for the washing away of Original Sin and forgiveness of your sins and mine. Precious Blood to be drunk to eternal life or for us to be drenched in the Sacrament of Confession for the return to Baptismal innocence after personal sin.
Look at the website sections for more on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Look to "Helpful Hints of Life" for Jesus 12 Promises to those who have Devotion to His Sacred Heart. Receive Him, Who is only Love and Mercy, in the Sacraments of His Church!
Peace and prayers in Jesus through Mary, loved by Saint Joseph,
Father Robert
P.S. This coming Sunday is 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time-Time ordered for Christian Living. The readings can be found at: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/063024.cfm
Friday, July 3rd marked the continuing of 9 consecutive FIRST FRIDAYS which our Lord asked through St. Margaret Mary that can be offered to His Sacred Heart for special graces and benefit to humanity, especially individuals.
12. The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour. –Jesus Christ
The month of June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. God's love has been enfleshed in the human heart of Jesus, which we call His Sacred Heart because from it gushed "immediately blood and water. (John 19:34)" Holy Water in Baptism for the washing away of Original Sin and forgiveness of your sins and mine. Precious Blood to be drunk to eternal life or for us to be drenched in the Sacrament of Confession for the return to Baptismal innocence after personal sin.
Look at the website sections for more on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Look to "Helpful Hints of Life" for Jesus 12 Promises to those who have Devotion to His Sacred Heart. Receive Him, Who is only Love and Mercy, in the Sacraments of His Church!
Peace and prayers in Jesus through Mary, loved by Saint Joseph,
Father Robert
P.S. This coming Sunday is 13th Sunday of Ordinary Time-Time ordered for Christian Living. The readings can be found at: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/063024.cfm
P.S.S.S. Sunday Readings with Reflections and Questions at end of e-mail
devotion (Latin devotio "piety, zeal, devotion")
- act or disposition of the will to do promptly what concerns the worship and love of God
[Essential to devotion is readiness to do whatever gives honor to God, whether in public or private prayer (worship) or in doing the will of God (service). A person who is thus disposed is said to be devoted. His or her devotedness is ultimately rooted in a great love for God, which in spiritual theology is often called devotion.]
The Twelve Promises of Jesus
to those who honor His Sacred Heart
given to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state in life.
2. I will give peace in their families.
3. I will console them in all their troubles.
4. They shall find in My Heart an assured refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
5. I will pour abundant blessings on all their undertakings.
6. Sinners shall find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
7. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
8. Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection.
9. I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored.
10. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their name written in My Heart, and it shall never be effaced.
12. The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour.
"Jesus knew and loved us each and all during his life, his agony and his Passion, and gave himself up for each one of us: "The Son of God. . . loved me and gave himself for me." He has loved us all with a human heart. For this reason, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced by our sins and for our salvation, "is quite rightly considered the chief sign and symbol of that. . . love with which the divine Redeemer continually loves the eternal Father and all human beings" without exception. -Catechism of the Catholic Church #478
to those who honor His Sacred Heart
given to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state in life.
2. I will give peace in their families.
3. I will console them in all their troubles.
4. They shall find in My Heart an assured refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
5. I will pour abundant blessings on all their undertakings.
6. Sinners shall find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
7. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
8. Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection.
9. I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored.
10. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their name written in My Heart, and it shall never be effaced.
12. The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour.
"Jesus knew and loved us each and all during his life, his agony and his Passion, and gave himself up for each one of us: "The Son of God. . . loved me and gave himself for me." He has loved us all with a human heart. For this reason, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, pierced by our sins and for our salvation, "is quite rightly considered the chief sign and symbol of that. . . love with which the divine Redeemer continually loves the eternal Father and all human beings" without exception. -Catechism of the Catholic Church #478
For those traveling this summer and needing to get to the Holy Mass.
MASS TIMES AND CATHOLIC CHURCHES throughout the US
http://www.masstimes.org/
Simply type in the town you will be in. It also gives you the nearest church to you with the closest Mass Time.
https://thecatholictravelguide.com/
Great advice for Catholic travelers
In Catholic theology, a person is justified by faith and works acting together, which comes solely from God’s divine grace. Faith alone never obtains the grace of justification (Council of Trent, chapter 8, canon 9). Here and elsewhere, the Scriptures teach that justification is achieved only when “faith and works” act together. Faith is faith and works are works (James 2:18). They are distinct (mind and action), and yet must act together in order to receive God’s unmerited gift of justification. Further Reading: James 2
‘I want them to see the sacrificial Lamb of God who willingly laid down his life for us.’
L to R: ‘The Entombment’ and ‘Lamb of God,’ by Robert Armetta (photo: Courtesy of St. Edmund's Retreat and Robert Armetta)
Joseph Pronechen Features
June 23, 2024
Among the many ways the Eucharist is being highlighted and honored during the current Eucharistic Revival is through a major sacred art exhibit called “Do This in Memory of Me.” The juried show now being hosted at the Knights of Columbus’ Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center in New Haven, Connecticut, has 109 pieces of original sacred art from living artists chosen from more than 660 entries.
The museum became the main venue since the Seton Route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage began in New Haven, the home of Blessed Michael McGivney. Generous support for the show by the National Eucharistic Congress and the National Eucharistic Revival team included prizes for the top two artists.
Knowing the power of sacred art, St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute in Mystic, Connecticut, organized and curated the exhibition to draw people into a deep intimacy with Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist and into the mystery of Jesus’ Real Presence.
“It is being so well received that I started to realize that there's a world hungry out there for the sacred,” Dan DeLouise, the artist in residence at St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute, told the Register.
“We tried to give everybody a flavor of what traditional sacred art looks like, and even a smattering of some modern art with the sacred in it,” Deacon Fran Valliere, coordinator of St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute, told the Register. “But more so, we were interested in getting the public to recognize that the Eucharist, the liturgy, the Bible, doesn’t have to be found in 400 or 500 old Renaissance paintings and sculptures. They can look toward contemporary artists today and find just as valuable works by people who have learned their [traditional] method or have advanced on their methods.”
While traditional paintings predominate, the variety also includes watercolors, charcoals, reliefs and sculpture, even an abstract or two. Some are quite large, from a 4-foot sculpture of the Blessed Mother to some paintings stretching 6 feet across.
“We tried to keep the theme as Eucharistic as possible,” DeLouise explained, including “saints that were committed to the Eucharist.”
Deacon Valliere pointed out, “We want a lot of sacred artists to get their name out there. We truly want to promote sacred art because it really tells a story. It brings the Bible alive. It tells us not only about Jesus, but the saints. Many parts of Catholic theology come through in these artworks.”
He highlighted the effects sacred art can have on souls. Prior to the exhibit opening at the museum, at the reception and preview at Enders Island he recalled the reaction: “People seated or standing in front of some of the artworks for minutes on end, meditating and praying.”
“As long as the works get seen and people are moved in their hearts and realize a renewed passion for a Eucharistic Lord,” DeLouise said, “we’ve done our job.”
Call to Meditation
Top prize went to Robert Armetta for his oil painting titled, The Entombment. Measuring more than 6 feet wide, the life-size painting forms a pair with a Crucifixion painting, Lamb of God.
The founder and former director of the Long Island Academy of Fine Art, Armetta studied at the best art schools in the United States and Europe. “This turn or this focus on sacred art is something that is a recent development, although that's not entirely true, but it’s something that I’ve been more focused on as of late,” he told the Register.
In both paintings, there are wounds present, “but they’re not overly emphasized, and this was done deliberately,” he added.
The artist was interested in drawing people in to meditate: “I want them to see the sacrificial Lamb of God who willingly laid down his life for us. I want the viewer to meditate on this and ask, ‘Why?’ Sometimes, the gore can be a distraction and maybe even a roadblock for some to see Jesus resigned to his destiny. One approach is not better than the other; each depicts a distinct facet of a very complex reality. In the painting Entombment, my concern was I want the viewer to focus on the soon-to-be-resurrected Jesus, unencumbered by potentially distracting details.”
He would like his sacred art to do what the best of sacred art has always done: to move the heart of the viewer, redirect their gaze to Christ and what Jesus has done for them and what it means to them as children of God, whether or not they’re religious, whether in the church or outside of sacred spaces.
“There’s something really potent about the power of sacred art, because it reflects and points to the single most potent force there is, and that is God.” He hopes “that the spirit of God can move through these images and powerfully impact and change the lives of those who behold them, those who gaze upon these images. … And what higher calling can any artist have than to essentially use the gift that God has given them? To direct or redirect the hearts and the eyes of the people who see and experience what they do to the giver of that gift, back to God.”
Armetta shared a thought about winning: “This is what God has for me. Winning this award is just confirmation that I’m truly doing what I’ve been called to do.”
‘Visual Homilies’
Second prize went to Kate Capato for her 36-by-24 oil painting, The Woman at the Well. Capato has been painting professionally since 2010 and full time the last seven years. “I do primarily sacred art, mostly because I feel called to spread our Catholic faith through painting,” she told the Register.
A traditional artist whose studies include time in Florence, Italy, the Cradle of the Renaissance where its major artists lived at one time or another, Capato’s oil paintings include traditional subjects like the Annunciation, Christ the King and the Holy Family.
Capato explained how The Woman at the Well fits the theme of the whole exhibit. “That image resonated with the theme, too, because it shows that moment where the Woman at the Well recognizes Jesus. He’s saying to her, ‘I am what will quench your thirst.’ And so it’s her gaze of, ‘You’re him. You’re the Messiah.’ Seeing him physically in front of you, it’s more about the recognition of who he is before you that can tie us in Eucharistically as well. It may not be as explicit as the Last Supper, but it has that effect of recognizing God made flesh in Christ in that recognition moment; and also how, I believe, like many things, she has a foreshadowing of what’s to come. He talks about how he will be what satisfies her.”
Joseph Pronechen Features
June 23, 2024
Among the many ways the Eucharist is being highlighted and honored during the current Eucharistic Revival is through a major sacred art exhibit called “Do This in Memory of Me.” The juried show now being hosted at the Knights of Columbus’ Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center in New Haven, Connecticut, has 109 pieces of original sacred art from living artists chosen from more than 660 entries.
The museum became the main venue since the Seton Route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage began in New Haven, the home of Blessed Michael McGivney. Generous support for the show by the National Eucharistic Congress and the National Eucharistic Revival team included prizes for the top two artists.
Knowing the power of sacred art, St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute in Mystic, Connecticut, organized and curated the exhibition to draw people into a deep intimacy with Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist and into the mystery of Jesus’ Real Presence.
“It is being so well received that I started to realize that there's a world hungry out there for the sacred,” Dan DeLouise, the artist in residence at St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute, told the Register.
“We tried to give everybody a flavor of what traditional sacred art looks like, and even a smattering of some modern art with the sacred in it,” Deacon Fran Valliere, coordinator of St. Edmund’s Sacred Art Institute, told the Register. “But more so, we were interested in getting the public to recognize that the Eucharist, the liturgy, the Bible, doesn’t have to be found in 400 or 500 old Renaissance paintings and sculptures. They can look toward contemporary artists today and find just as valuable works by people who have learned their [traditional] method or have advanced on their methods.”
While traditional paintings predominate, the variety also includes watercolors, charcoals, reliefs and sculpture, even an abstract or two. Some are quite large, from a 4-foot sculpture of the Blessed Mother to some paintings stretching 6 feet across.
“We tried to keep the theme as Eucharistic as possible,” DeLouise explained, including “saints that were committed to the Eucharist.”
Deacon Valliere pointed out, “We want a lot of sacred artists to get their name out there. We truly want to promote sacred art because it really tells a story. It brings the Bible alive. It tells us not only about Jesus, but the saints. Many parts of Catholic theology come through in these artworks.”
He highlighted the effects sacred art can have on souls. Prior to the exhibit opening at the museum, at the reception and preview at Enders Island he recalled the reaction: “People seated or standing in front of some of the artworks for minutes on end, meditating and praying.”
“As long as the works get seen and people are moved in their hearts and realize a renewed passion for a Eucharistic Lord,” DeLouise said, “we’ve done our job.”
Call to Meditation
Top prize went to Robert Armetta for his oil painting titled, The Entombment. Measuring more than 6 feet wide, the life-size painting forms a pair with a Crucifixion painting, Lamb of God.
The founder and former director of the Long Island Academy of Fine Art, Armetta studied at the best art schools in the United States and Europe. “This turn or this focus on sacred art is something that is a recent development, although that's not entirely true, but it’s something that I’ve been more focused on as of late,” he told the Register.
In both paintings, there are wounds present, “but they’re not overly emphasized, and this was done deliberately,” he added.
The artist was interested in drawing people in to meditate: “I want them to see the sacrificial Lamb of God who willingly laid down his life for us. I want the viewer to meditate on this and ask, ‘Why?’ Sometimes, the gore can be a distraction and maybe even a roadblock for some to see Jesus resigned to his destiny. One approach is not better than the other; each depicts a distinct facet of a very complex reality. In the painting Entombment, my concern was I want the viewer to focus on the soon-to-be-resurrected Jesus, unencumbered by potentially distracting details.”
He would like his sacred art to do what the best of sacred art has always done: to move the heart of the viewer, redirect their gaze to Christ and what Jesus has done for them and what it means to them as children of God, whether or not they’re religious, whether in the church or outside of sacred spaces.
“There’s something really potent about the power of sacred art, because it reflects and points to the single most potent force there is, and that is God.” He hopes “that the spirit of God can move through these images and powerfully impact and change the lives of those who behold them, those who gaze upon these images. … And what higher calling can any artist have than to essentially use the gift that God has given them? To direct or redirect the hearts and the eyes of the people who see and experience what they do to the giver of that gift, back to God.”
Armetta shared a thought about winning: “This is what God has for me. Winning this award is just confirmation that I’m truly doing what I’ve been called to do.”
‘Visual Homilies’
Second prize went to Kate Capato for her 36-by-24 oil painting, The Woman at the Well. Capato has been painting professionally since 2010 and full time the last seven years. “I do primarily sacred art, mostly because I feel called to spread our Catholic faith through painting,” she told the Register.
A traditional artist whose studies include time in Florence, Italy, the Cradle of the Renaissance where its major artists lived at one time or another, Capato’s oil paintings include traditional subjects like the Annunciation, Christ the King and the Holy Family.
Capato explained how The Woman at the Well fits the theme of the whole exhibit. “That image resonated with the theme, too, because it shows that moment where the Woman at the Well recognizes Jesus. He’s saying to her, ‘I am what will quench your thirst.’ And so it’s her gaze of, ‘You’re him. You’re the Messiah.’ Seeing him physically in front of you, it’s more about the recognition of who he is before you that can tie us in Eucharistically as well. It may not be as explicit as the Last Supper, but it has that effect of recognizing God made flesh in Christ in that recognition moment; and also how, I believe, like many things, she has a foreshadowing of what’s to come. He talks about how he will be what satisfies her.”
‘The Woman at the Well,’ by Kate Capato(Photo: Courtesy of St. Edmund's Retreat and Kate Capato)
What does she hope the viewer’s reaction would be?
“I would hope that they relate to the Woman at the Well, which I think many people do, even just reading the Scripture,” she answered. “I would hope that this image helps them really put themselves in her place. God willing, they don’t have five other spouses like she did. But we do, in a sense, when we cling to something that is not of Christ — a different idol. So again, that is another reason to have her pour out that water. I hope that people recognize it and say, ‘Oh, what do I need to let go of to see Christ before me and receive … the water that will satisfy.’”
Her aim is “creating visual homilies,” referencing her studies at Florence’s
sacred art school. “It’s our duty to not just paint something, but to know the faith well and then pray with it. So I really feel it’s a mission, every work that I create, to really express whatever it is that the Lord has called me to for that individual work.”
Her process involves going to adoration, “and I’ll sketch things out there often,” she said, “or simply I’ll bring them up at Mass or say a Rosary with [the intention] of how the Lord will work through it and whoever seizes upon it, that they come closer to him. So really just continually giving it back to the Lord, to use how he would like for his kingdom.”
Kate Capato appeared on ‘Women of Grace’ on EWTN
‘It Is Beautiful’
Third-prize-winner Neal Hughes painted Agnus Dei, capturing the moment during Solemn Mass in the Tridentine Rite when the priest elevates the Host as deacons, subdeacons and altar servers watch in adoration. Although not having done much religious art previously, he chose this particular subject thinking of the Eucharist within the High Mass and Benediction with all the incense.
What does she hope the viewer’s reaction would be?
“I would hope that they relate to the Woman at the Well, which I think many people do, even just reading the Scripture,” she answered. “I would hope that this image helps them really put themselves in her place. God willing, they don’t have five other spouses like she did. But we do, in a sense, when we cling to something that is not of Christ — a different idol. So again, that is another reason to have her pour out that water. I hope that people recognize it and say, ‘Oh, what do I need to let go of to see Christ before me and receive … the water that will satisfy.’”
Her aim is “creating visual homilies,” referencing her studies at Florence’s
sacred art school. “It’s our duty to not just paint something, but to know the faith well and then pray with it. So I really feel it’s a mission, every work that I create, to really express whatever it is that the Lord has called me to for that individual work.”
Her process involves going to adoration, “and I’ll sketch things out there often,” she said, “or simply I’ll bring them up at Mass or say a Rosary with [the intention] of how the Lord will work through it and whoever seizes upon it, that they come closer to him. So really just continually giving it back to the Lord, to use how he would like for his kingdom.”
Kate Capato appeared on ‘Women of Grace’ on EWTN
‘It Is Beautiful’
Third-prize-winner Neal Hughes painted Agnus Dei, capturing the moment during Solemn Mass in the Tridentine Rite when the priest elevates the Host as deacons, subdeacons and altar servers watch in adoration. Although not having done much religious art previously, he chose this particular subject thinking of the Eucharist within the High Mass and Benediction with all the incense.
‘Agnus Dei,’ by Neal Hughes (Photo: Courtesy of St. Edmund's Retreat and Neal Hughes)
“Our faith does have a lot of beauty in it, the traditions, the more ceremonial aspects to the Mass,” he told the Register. “Hopefully it will inspire someone to look into that a little, because it is beautiful.” For this painting, he drew inspiration from beautiful churches — and an altar in particular.
Hughes was also inspired by attending Benediction growing up in southern New Jersey. “And I always like the beauty of the church itself,” he said. His family regularly attended a Miraculous Medal novena nearby where there was also Benediction and incense. “That’s what came to mind.”
Capato added, “I really feel like the Holy Spirit is inspiring the Church as a whole to bring more beauty back into our churches and to our homes. Beauty is essential.”
“Our faith does have a lot of beauty in it, the traditions, the more ceremonial aspects to the Mass,” he told the Register. “Hopefully it will inspire someone to look into that a little, because it is beautiful.” For this painting, he drew inspiration from beautiful churches — and an altar in particular.
Hughes was also inspired by attending Benediction growing up in southern New Jersey. “And I always like the beauty of the church itself,” he said. His family regularly attended a Miraculous Medal novena nearby where there was also Benediction and incense. “That’s what came to mind.”
Capato added, “I really feel like the Holy Spirit is inspiring the Church as a whole to bring more beauty back into our churches and to our homes. Beauty is essential.”
Honorable mentions, L to R: iconography, ‘Noli Me Tangere’ (Touch Me Not), by Jennifer Ward; and drawing, ‘A Mother’s Heart,’ by Mia Lang(Photo: Courtesy of St. Edmund's Retreat and Mia Lang and Jennifer Ward)
VIEW
The show runs at the McGivney Center through Aug. 25. And a small grouping of the exhibit’s artwork will be displayed at the Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
VIEW
The show runs at the McGivney Center through Aug. 25. And a small grouping of the exhibit’s artwork will be displayed at the Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
How Catholics Started the Hospital & University Systems in the So-Called “Dark” Ages
Did you know the Catholic Church started both the hospital and university systems?
In this week’s episode of The Catholic Talk Show, Ryan Scheel, Fr. Rich Pagano, and Ryan DellaCross discuss “7 Reasons the Dark Ages Weren’t Actually That Dark.”
In this portion of the podcast, the group explains the Catholic Church’s deep involvement in founding the hospital and university systems we know today.
- by ChurchPOP Editor - July 13, 2019
Did you know the Catholic Church started both the hospital and university systems?
In this week’s episode of The Catholic Talk Show, Ryan Scheel, Fr. Rich Pagano, and Ryan DellaCross discuss “7 Reasons the Dark Ages Weren’t Actually That Dark.”
In this portion of the podcast, the group explains the Catholic Church’s deep involvement in founding the hospital and university systems we know today.
THIS 95-YEAR-OLD CATHOLIC COUPLE DIED IN EACH OTHER'S ARMS...
San Diego, Calif. (EWTN News/CNA) - Few love stories can say that they began at the age of eight. But for Jeanette and Alexander Toczko, they couldn't have imagined life any other way.
What began as a childhood crush later bloomed into a deep, committed love – a love that would last throughout a war, five children, and seventy-five years of marriage.
“Their hearts beat as one from as long as I can remember,” said Aimee Toczko-Cushman, one of the couple's five children, according to the Daily Mail.
After meeting his future wife at the age of eight, Alexander Toczko married Jeanette in 1940 while he was enrolled in the U.S. Navy as a telegraph operator. Alexander was a devoted husband to his wife Jeanette, and as Catholics, he fondly carried a snapshot of Jeanette's First Holy Communion in his wallet.
The Toczko's settled in San Diego, California in 1971 where Alexander and Jeanette worked together, establishing their own fashion photography and advertising firm. Alexander had a passion for golf and sketching, and the couple loved to travel with each other.
They raised their five children in the San Diego area, and over the years became the proud grandparents of ten grandchildren.
This past June, the couple celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary. Alexander, a WWII veteran, was 95 and Jeanette was 96.
The couple's health had been declining over the months, especially after Alexander had taken a recent fall, breaking his hip.
“He was going fast,” their son, Richard Toczko, remembered.
Hospice care was brought to Jeanette and Alexander's home, so that they could share their own bed and stay close to each other in their final moments.
Remarkably, the inseparable couple had a dying wish that they often told their children – they both wanted to pass away together, in each other's arms and in their own bed.
Alexander was the first to go on June 17. Once Jeanette had been informed that her husband had died, she said, “See this is what you wanted. You died in my arms and I love you. I love you, wait for me, I'll be there soon.”
Jeanette died only hours after her husband on June 18.
“Even the hospice nurse said it was the most incredible thing to see the two of them taking those last breaths together,” Aimee Toczko-Cushman said.
“They both entered the pearly gates holding hands,” reflected their son, Richard Toczko.
A funeral mass was held for Alexander and Jeanette on June 29, a ceremony which commemorated both their lives and their 75th wedding anniversary. They were buried at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego.
" 1. Be especially attentive "to the content and unity of the whole Scripture". Different as the books which compose it may be, Scripture is a unity by reason of the unity of God's plan, of which Christ Jesus is the center and heart, open since his Passover.
The phrase "heart of Christ" can refer to Sacred Scripture, which makes known his heart, closed before the Passion, as the Scripture was obscure. But the Scripture has been opened since the Passion; since those who from then on have understood it, consider and discern in what way the prophecies must be interpreted." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #112
San Diego, Calif. (EWTN News/CNA) - Few love stories can say that they began at the age of eight. But for Jeanette and Alexander Toczko, they couldn't have imagined life any other way.
What began as a childhood crush later bloomed into a deep, committed love – a love that would last throughout a war, five children, and seventy-five years of marriage.
“Their hearts beat as one from as long as I can remember,” said Aimee Toczko-Cushman, one of the couple's five children, according to the Daily Mail.
After meeting his future wife at the age of eight, Alexander Toczko married Jeanette in 1940 while he was enrolled in the U.S. Navy as a telegraph operator. Alexander was a devoted husband to his wife Jeanette, and as Catholics, he fondly carried a snapshot of Jeanette's First Holy Communion in his wallet.
The Toczko's settled in San Diego, California in 1971 where Alexander and Jeanette worked together, establishing their own fashion photography and advertising firm. Alexander had a passion for golf and sketching, and the couple loved to travel with each other.
They raised their five children in the San Diego area, and over the years became the proud grandparents of ten grandchildren.
This past June, the couple celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary. Alexander, a WWII veteran, was 95 and Jeanette was 96.
The couple's health had been declining over the months, especially after Alexander had taken a recent fall, breaking his hip.
“He was going fast,” their son, Richard Toczko, remembered.
Hospice care was brought to Jeanette and Alexander's home, so that they could share their own bed and stay close to each other in their final moments.
Remarkably, the inseparable couple had a dying wish that they often told their children – they both wanted to pass away together, in each other's arms and in their own bed.
Alexander was the first to go on June 17. Once Jeanette had been informed that her husband had died, she said, “See this is what you wanted. You died in my arms and I love you. I love you, wait for me, I'll be there soon.”
Jeanette died only hours after her husband on June 18.
“Even the hospice nurse said it was the most incredible thing to see the two of them taking those last breaths together,” Aimee Toczko-Cushman said.
“They both entered the pearly gates holding hands,” reflected their son, Richard Toczko.
A funeral mass was held for Alexander and Jeanette on June 29, a ceremony which commemorated both their lives and their 75th wedding anniversary. They were buried at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego.
" 1. Be especially attentive "to the content and unity of the whole Scripture". Different as the books which compose it may be, Scripture is a unity by reason of the unity of God's plan, of which Christ Jesus is the center and heart, open since his Passover.
The phrase "heart of Christ" can refer to Sacred Scripture, which makes known his heart, closed before the Passion, as the Scripture was obscure. But the Scripture has been opened since the Passion; since those who from then on have understood it, consider and discern in what way the prophecies must be interpreted." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #112
A bit of humor…
Some Thoughts:
-“What's the name of your new dog?” “I don’t know. He won’t tell.”
-Daddy reads some bedtime stories to make little Jonny fall asleep. Half an hour later mommy opens quietly the door and asks: “And, is he asleep?” Little Jonny answers: “Yes, finally.”
50 Things You'll (probably) Never Hear Catholics Say16) Go ahead and ask me all your questions about Catholicism. I feel pretty confident that I can answer all of them.
17) There are too many people in the front pews at Mass.
18) I had my conversion through Religious Ed.
19) Birth Control or Natural Family Planning (NFP)? I haven’t really heard any strong opinions one way or the other.
20) Donuts after Mass AGAIN?!?!
21) The Catechism of the Catholic Church, that 2600 page book? Yeah, it's a pretty quick read. Totally beach material.
22) All that exorcism stuff doesn’t freak me out at all.
23) You're interested in celibacy, too?!!
24) G.K. Chesterton… He was Anglican, right?
25) I don't know who to pray to when I lose my stuff!
26) I never really get distracted during the Rosary either.
27) Latin Tridentine Mass and Novus Ordo are practically the same thing.
28) I, too, have a devotion to St. Willibald.
29) How ‘bout them Crusades?!
30) Mary who?
31) I just wish the Sisters of Life were more joyful.
32) I’m not at all self-conscious after Ash Wednesday Mass. Let’s go to the disco.
33) What marriage controversy?
34) I think St. Patrick would be proud of how we celebrate him.
35) I miss Limbo.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Several days ago as I left a meeting at our church, I desperately gave myself a personal TSA pat down.
I was looking for my keys. They were not in my pockets. A quick search in the meeting room revealed nothing.
Suddenly I realized, I must have left them in the car.
Frantically, I headed for the parking lot. My wife, Diane, has scolded me many times for leaving the keys in the ignition. My theory is the ignition is the best place not to lose them. Her theory is that the car will be stolen.
As I burst through the doors of the church, I came to a terrifying conclusion. Her theory was right. The parking lot was empty.
I immediately called the police, gave them my location, confessed that I had left my keys in the car and that it had been stolen.
Then I made the most difficult call of all, “Honey,” I stammered. I always call her “honey”in times like these. “I left my keys in the car, and it has been stolen.”
There was a period of silence. I thought the call had been dropped, but then I heard Diane’s voice. “Ken” she barked, “I dropped you off!”
Now it was my turn to be silent. Embarrassed, I said, “Well, can you please come and get me.”
Diane retorted, “I will, as soon as I can convince this policeman I have not stolen your car!”
Some Thoughts:
-“What's the name of your new dog?” “I don’t know. He won’t tell.”
-Daddy reads some bedtime stories to make little Jonny fall asleep. Half an hour later mommy opens quietly the door and asks: “And, is he asleep?” Little Jonny answers: “Yes, finally.”
50 Things You'll (probably) Never Hear Catholics Say16) Go ahead and ask me all your questions about Catholicism. I feel pretty confident that I can answer all of them.
17) There are too many people in the front pews at Mass.
18) I had my conversion through Religious Ed.
19) Birth Control or Natural Family Planning (NFP)? I haven’t really heard any strong opinions one way or the other.
20) Donuts after Mass AGAIN?!?!
21) The Catechism of the Catholic Church, that 2600 page book? Yeah, it's a pretty quick read. Totally beach material.
22) All that exorcism stuff doesn’t freak me out at all.
23) You're interested in celibacy, too?!!
24) G.K. Chesterton… He was Anglican, right?
25) I don't know who to pray to when I lose my stuff!
26) I never really get distracted during the Rosary either.
27) Latin Tridentine Mass and Novus Ordo are practically the same thing.
28) I, too, have a devotion to St. Willibald.
29) How ‘bout them Crusades?!
30) Mary who?
31) I just wish the Sisters of Life were more joyful.
32) I’m not at all self-conscious after Ash Wednesday Mass. Let’s go to the disco.
33) What marriage controversy?
34) I think St. Patrick would be proud of how we celebrate him.
35) I miss Limbo.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Several days ago as I left a meeting at our church, I desperately gave myself a personal TSA pat down.
I was looking for my keys. They were not in my pockets. A quick search in the meeting room revealed nothing.
Suddenly I realized, I must have left them in the car.
Frantically, I headed for the parking lot. My wife, Diane, has scolded me many times for leaving the keys in the ignition. My theory is the ignition is the best place not to lose them. Her theory is that the car will be stolen.
As I burst through the doors of the church, I came to a terrifying conclusion. Her theory was right. The parking lot was empty.
I immediately called the police, gave them my location, confessed that I had left my keys in the car and that it had been stolen.
Then I made the most difficult call of all, “Honey,” I stammered. I always call her “honey”in times like these. “I left my keys in the car, and it has been stolen.”
There was a period of silence. I thought the call had been dropped, but then I heard Diane’s voice. “Ken” she barked, “I dropped you off!”
Now it was my turn to be silent. Embarrassed, I said, “Well, can you please come and get me.”
Diane retorted, “I will, as soon as I can convince this policeman I have not stolen your car!”
Prayer to the Sacred Heart
0 Jesus! divine Savior, from whose Heart comes forth this bitter complaint, "I looked for one that would comfort me, and I found none," graciously accept the feeble consolation we offer You, and aid us so powerfully by your grace, that we may, for the time to come, shun more and more all that can displease You, and prove ourselves in everything, and everywhere, and forever Your most faithful and devoted servants. We ask it through Your Sacred Heart, O Lord, who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit one God, world without end. Amen.
0 Jesus! divine Savior, from whose Heart comes forth this bitter complaint, "I looked for one that would comfort me, and I found none," graciously accept the feeble consolation we offer You, and aid us so powerfully by your grace, that we may, for the time to come, shun more and more all that can displease You, and prove ourselves in everything, and everywhere, and forever Your most faithful and devoted servants. We ask it through Your Sacred Heart, O Lord, who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit one God, world without end. Amen.
"Christ is the light of humanity; and it is, accordingly, the heart-felt desire of this sacred Council, being gathered together in the Holy Spirit, that, by proclaiming his Gospel to every creature, it may bring to all men that light of Christ which shines out visibly from the Church." These words open the Second Vatican Council's Dogmatic Constitution on the Church. By choosing this starting point, the Council demonstrates that the article of faith about the Church depends entirely on the articles concerning Christ Jesus. The Church has no other light than Christ's; according to a favorite image of the Church Fathers, the Church is like the moon, all its light reflected from the sun." -Catechism of the Catholic Church #748
+JMJ+
SUNDAY BIBLICAL MASS READINGS AND QUESTIONS
for Self-Reflection, Couples or Family Discussion
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sunday, June 30th, 2024
The First Reading- Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24
God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, for justice is undying. For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who belong to his company experience it.
Reflection
It is mentioned several times in Scripture that death is the enemy of God. In today’s first reading, we hear that death is not part of the created order — that God did not create it, but that we invited it into the world through our cooperation with the devil, and that “they who belong to his company experience it.” Of course, we all experience it because we all sin at times in our life.
Adults -How can you actively fight against sin in your life?
Teens - What do you think the Wisdom reading means when it says, “they who belong to his [the devil’s] company experience it [death]”? If we are Christians and we reject the devil, why do we still suffer?
Kids - What does it mean to have eternal life?
Responsorial- Psalm 30: 2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear
and did not let my enemies rejoice over me.
O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld;
you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones,
and give thanks to his holy name.
For his anger lasts but a moment;
a lifetime, his good will.
At nightfall, weeping enters in,
but with the dawn, rejoicing.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me;
O LORD, be my helper.
You changed my mourning into dancing;
O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Reflection
-Get to know the book of Psalms a little better this week, and recite a Psalm of praise as a prayer of thanksgiving for the blessings in your life.
The Second Reading- 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
Brothers and sisters: As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also. For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.
Not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their needs, so that their abundance may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. As it is written: Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.
Reflection
The second reading speaks to Jesus’ great charity in becoming poor like us; vulnerable like us, so that we can be rich in grace and the Spirit. Jesus also looks to our material needs, and through our charitable efforts, continues to minister to the poor. We are called to share what we have so that no one should be without.
Try to increase your charitable giving this week - donate clothes or food to a local shelter.
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 5:21-43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, "My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live." He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, "If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured." Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who has touched my clothes?" But his disciples said to Jesus, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, 'Who touched me?'" And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth.
He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official's house arrived and said, "Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?" Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, "Do not be afraid; just have faith." He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, "Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep." And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child's father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum," which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
Reflection
The Gospel invites us to experience healings on several different levels through two stories sandwiched together. First we meet Jairus whose young daughter had died. He was very worried, and his household was grieving as only people who have lost a child can. While Jesus was on his way to their house, a woman who had become desperate in her suffering, touches his cloak fully expecting to be healed. She was! When Jesus questioned her, she fessed up, and he commended her for her faith. Jesus got to Jairus’ house and healed the young girl. From these two events, a woman with chronic illness was healed, a little girl was healed from death, her parents and their community were healed from grief. Wherever Jesus is, death has no power. He took death on himself and conquered it in the resurrection so that when that enemy shows up on our door, Jesus stands right with us to take our hands and say, “Arise.”
Adults -What has been your experience of death? What has been your experience of the Resurrection in times of suffering, illness, or grief?
Teens -The woman who had been ill for a long time had the gumption to touch Jesus — which was absolutely against the Jewish law — because she couldn’t take the pain anymore. What do you feel so strongly about that it makes you take action, even if you’re afraid to do it?
Kids - How does Jesus help us make the right choices in our lives?
LIVING THE WORD OF GOD THIS WEEK! – “If Today, let us say a fervent prayer of thanksgiving to God for the gift of active faith which he has given us and beg of him to keep that faith ever alive in our breasts. Let us think, too, of our fellowmen, our brothers in Christ, who are so busy with their worldly occupations and pleasures that they cannot find time to listen to his message. They are spiritually anemic and almost spiritually dead, but cannot push their way toward Christ through the throngs of earthly, worldly barricades which they have built about themselves. Our sincere prayers can help them to overcome these obstacles; frequently and fervently let us ask God to send them his efficacious grace so that these brothers in Christ will also be with him in heaven. -Excerpted from The Sunday Readings by Fr. Kevin O'Sullivan, O.F.M.
+JMJ+
SUNDAY BIBLICAL MASS READINGS AND QUESTIONS
for Self-Reflection, Couples or Family Discussion
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Sunday, June 30th, 2024
The First Reading- Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24
God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, for justice is undying. For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who belong to his company experience it.
Reflection
It is mentioned several times in Scripture that death is the enemy of God. In today’s first reading, we hear that death is not part of the created order — that God did not create it, but that we invited it into the world through our cooperation with the devil, and that “they who belong to his company experience it.” Of course, we all experience it because we all sin at times in our life.
Adults -How can you actively fight against sin in your life?
Teens - What do you think the Wisdom reading means when it says, “they who belong to his [the devil’s] company experience it [death]”? If we are Christians and we reject the devil, why do we still suffer?
Kids - What does it mean to have eternal life?
Responsorial- Psalm 30: 2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear
and did not let my enemies rejoice over me.
O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld;
you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones,
and give thanks to his holy name.
For his anger lasts but a moment;
a lifetime, his good will.
At nightfall, weeping enters in,
but with the dawn, rejoicing.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me;
O LORD, be my helper.
You changed my mourning into dancing;
O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Reflection
-Get to know the book of Psalms a little better this week, and recite a Psalm of praise as a prayer of thanksgiving for the blessings in your life.
The Second Reading- 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
Brothers and sisters: As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also. For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.
Not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their needs, so that their abundance may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. As it is written: Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.
Reflection
The second reading speaks to Jesus’ great charity in becoming poor like us; vulnerable like us, so that we can be rich in grace and the Spirit. Jesus also looks to our material needs, and through our charitable efforts, continues to minister to the poor. We are called to share what we have so that no one should be without.
Try to increase your charitable giving this week - donate clothes or food to a local shelter.
The Holy Gospel according to Mark 5:21-43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, "My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live." He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, "If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured." Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who has touched my clothes?" But his disciples said to Jesus, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, 'Who touched me?'" And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth.
He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official's house arrived and said, "Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?" Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, "Do not be afraid; just have faith." He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, "Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep." And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child's father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum," which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
Reflection
The Gospel invites us to experience healings on several different levels through two stories sandwiched together. First we meet Jairus whose young daughter had died. He was very worried, and his household was grieving as only people who have lost a child can. While Jesus was on his way to their house, a woman who had become desperate in her suffering, touches his cloak fully expecting to be healed. She was! When Jesus questioned her, she fessed up, and he commended her for her faith. Jesus got to Jairus’ house and healed the young girl. From these two events, a woman with chronic illness was healed, a little girl was healed from death, her parents and their community were healed from grief. Wherever Jesus is, death has no power. He took death on himself and conquered it in the resurrection so that when that enemy shows up on our door, Jesus stands right with us to take our hands and say, “Arise.”
Adults -What has been your experience of death? What has been your experience of the Resurrection in times of suffering, illness, or grief?
Teens -The woman who had been ill for a long time had the gumption to touch Jesus — which was absolutely against the Jewish law — because she couldn’t take the pain anymore. What do you feel so strongly about that it makes you take action, even if you’re afraid to do it?
Kids - How does Jesus help us make the right choices in our lives?
LIVING THE WORD OF GOD THIS WEEK! – “If Today, let us say a fervent prayer of thanksgiving to God for the gift of active faith which he has given us and beg of him to keep that faith ever alive in our breasts. Let us think, too, of our fellowmen, our brothers in Christ, who are so busy with their worldly occupations and pleasures that they cannot find time to listen to his message. They are spiritually anemic and almost spiritually dead, but cannot push their way toward Christ through the throngs of earthly, worldly barricades which they have built about themselves. Our sincere prayers can help them to overcome these obstacles; frequently and fervently let us ask God to send them his efficacious grace so that these brothers in Christ will also be with him in heaven. -Excerpted from The Sunday Readings by Fr. Kevin O'Sullivan, O.F.M.
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