Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI

O God, true shepherd of all the faithful,
look with kindness on your servant Pope Benedict XVI,
whom you set as head and shepherd of Your Church.

We give you thanks for your grace at work in him 
as he had led us by word and example:
in his teaching, in his prayer and in his great love.

Grant him your strength in frailty, comfort in sorrow,
and serenity amid the trials of this world;
and guide your Church, built on the rock of Peter,
with the power of your Spirit as we continue on the path that leads to you.
Through Christ our Lord.   Amen. 

(from:http://usccb.org/about/leadership/holy-see/pope-benedict-xvi/papal-transition-2013-graphics-downloads.cfm)

Stations of the Cross

Stations of the Cross and Climate Change
To help Catholics enter into the season of Lent, the Holy Names Province of the Order of Friars Minor has produced a Stations of the Cross Reflection based on John Paul II's climate quotes. The Stations of the Cross with John Paul II: On the Path of Ecological Conversion, is a resource prepared especially for those who have a deep admiration and love for Blessed John Paul II. If you are one of those people, and if you want to continue to be inspired and challenged by his prophetic message, these Stations of the Cross are meant in a special way for you and your faith community. http://tiny.cc/un9rrw 

How do Catholics elect the Pope? - Busted Halo

Check out this short video from Busted Halo on how the Pope is elected.
How do Catholics elect the Pope? - Busted Halo

Valentine's Day

     "THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14: Whether your love style reflects the romance of Geoffrey Chaucer, the friendship of Finland or the devotion of three early Christian martyrs, be sure to do one thing: express your love—it’s Valentine’s Day!" 
     This is the 1st line from a Read the Spirit.com blog about Valentine's Day.  If you would like to read more click the following link and it will take you to the blog entry for today. http://www.readthespirit.com/religious-holidays-festivals/international-observance-show-love-on-valentines-day.html 

First Sunday of Lent, Year C

Reading 1: Deuteronomy 26:4-10; Reading 2: Romans 10:8-13; Gospel: Luke 4: 1-13
Adults: How willing are you to profess your faith in Jesus Christ openly to others?
Children: Would you be willing to say that you believe in Jesus if others made fun of you for it?

( from: http://rclblectionary.com/?p=223)

Pope Benedict XVI Resigns

(VATICAN CITY) — Pope Benedict XVI announced Monday he would resign Feb. 28 because he is simply too old to carry on. The following link will take you to the text of his announcement, delivered to cardinals gathered for a ceremony to name three new saints:  http://world.time.com/2013/02/11/text-of-popes-resignation-announcement/#ixzz2Kau4l7qy

Pope's Lenten Message: Compelling Relationship Between Faith and Charity

The Holy Father's Lenten Message for 2013 is entitled: Believing in Charity Calls Forth Charity: "We have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us," (1Jn 4:16).  

To see the text of Pope Benedict XVI's message go to http://www.zenit.org/article-36460?l=english