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Got questions about life? Everyone should have the chance to explore the Christian faith, ask questions, and share their point of view.
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Amazed at the work of the Holy Spirit in our parish, we’re convinced that God is leading us into a time of formation, becoming missionary disciples necessary for the transformation of life and culture.
WITNESS
Only love is credible. The Church from the beginning stood out because of the love that they had for their contemporaries.
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Who is Saint Anthony of Egypt?
The life of Anthony will remind many people of Saint Francis of Assisi. At 20, Anthony was so moved by the Gospel message, “Go, sell what you have, and give to [the] poor” (Mark 10:21b), that he actually did just that with his large inheritance. He is different from Francis in that most of Anthony’s life was spent in solitude. He saw the world completely covered with snares, and gave the Church and the world the witness of solitary asceticism, great personal mortification and prayer. But no saint is anti-social, and Anthony drew many people to himself for spiritual healing and guidance. At 54, he responded to many requests and founded a sort of monastery of scattered cells.
At 60, he hoped to be a martyr in the renewed Roman persecution of 311, fearlessly exposing himself to danger while giving moral and material support to those in prison. At 88, he was fighting the Arian heresy, that massive trauma from which it took the Church centuries to recover.
Anthony is associated in art with a T-shaped cross, a pig and a book. The pig and the cross are symbols of his valiant warfare with the devil—the cross his constant means of power over evil spirits, the pig a symbol of the devil himself. The book recalls his preference for “the book of nature” over the printed word. Anthony died in solitude at age 105.
Reflection
In an age that smiles at the notion of devils and angels, a person known for having power over evil spirits must at least make us pause. And in a day when people speak of life as a “rat race,” one who devotes a whole life to solitude and prayer points to an essential of the Christian life in all ages. Anthony’s hermit life reminds us of the absoluteness of our break with sin and the totality of our commitment to Christ. Even in God’s good world, there is another world whose false values constantly tempt us.
![Who is Saint Anthony of Egypt?
The life of Anthony will remind many people of Saint Francis of Assisi. At 20, Anthony was so moved by the Gospel message, “Go, sell what you have, and give to [the] poor” (Mark 10:21b), that he actually did just that with his large inheritance. He is different from Francis in that most of Anthony’s life was spent in solitude. He saw the world completely covered with snares, and gave the Church and the world the witness of solitary asceticism, great personal mortification and prayer. But no saint is anti-social, and Anthony drew many people to himself for spiritual healing and guidance. At 54, he responded to many requests and founded a sort of monastery of scattered cells.
At 60, he hoped to be a martyr in the renewed Roman persecution of 311, fearlessly exposing himself to danger while giving moral and material support to those in prison. At 88, he was fighting the Arian heresy, that massive trauma from which it took the Church centuries to recover.
Anthony is associated in art with a T-shaped cross, a pig and a book. The pig and the cross are symbols of his valiant warfare with the devil—the cross his constant means of power over evil spirits, the pig a symbol of the devil himself. The book recalls his preference for “the book of nature” over the printed word. Anthony died in solitude at age 105.
Reflection
In an age that smiles at the notion of devils and angels, a person known for having power over evil spirits must at least make us pause. And in a day when people speak of life as a “rat race,” one who devotes a whole life to solitude and prayer points to an essential of the Christian life in all ages. Anthony’s hermit life reminds us of the absoluteness of our break with sin and the totality of our commitment to Christ. Even in God’s good world, there is another world whose false values constantly tempt us.](https://olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/wp-content/plugins/custom-facebook-feed-pro/assets/img/placeholder.png)
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Let us be in prayer - Day 2 of the 9 Days for Life Novena
May each person suffering from participation in abortion find forgiveness, hope, and healing in Christ.
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be
Reflection:
Countless children’s lives have been ended by abortion, and countless parents and family members suffer guilt, grief, and regret—often in silence. Yet God’s greatest desire is to forgive. No matter how far we have each strayed from His side, He says to us, “Don’t be afraid. Draw close to my heart.” Be assured that it is never too late to seek God's forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Consider the parable of the Prodigal Son. After repenting of sinning against his father, he returns from far away to seek forgiveness and work as a servant. But his father sees him approaching, runs to warmly embrace him, and hosts a banquet to celebrate his return. So, too, does God welcome all His children who come to Him in the Sacrament of Reconciliation with contrite hearts, no matter how serious the sin. Let us turn confidently to Our Lord, Who is love and mercy.
Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)
-Abstain from meat today.
-Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for today's intention.
-Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.
One Step Further:
If a friend confided in you that she had an abortion, would you be able to listen and respond in a way that brings her closer to forgiveness and healing? Learn how in "How to Talk to a Friend Who’s Had an Abortion" www.usccb.org/.../how-talk-friend-whos-had-abortion
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Change a Family's Life; Support OLM's Mission Trip to Guatemala
This February, a dedicated team from Our Lady of Mercy, including Fr. Frank, will embark on a mission trip to Guatemala to bring hope and transformation to families in need. Your generous donation can help make this life-changing mission possible.
In Guatemala, many families live in precarious conditions—makeshift shelters made of cornstalks, wood scraps, metal, or cardboard. These structures lack basic safety and hygiene. Families cook and sleep in the same cramped space, often on dirt floors, surrounded by unhealthy and insecure conditions.
The OLM mission team of adults will build safe, sustainable homes for these families. These new homes will have cinderblock walls, cement and tile floors, an outdoor covered kitchen with a stove, windows and doors that lock, a bathroom with a shower and toilet, and electricity. Your support will provide families with not just shelter but also security, dignity, and a new beginning.
By donating, you partner with the OLM team to provide families with a foundation for a better, healthier future. You have the power to change lives and offer hope where it’s needed most.
Ready to make a difference?
Donate online at this link and selecting “Missions” (Parish Collection for International/Domestic Mission). www.osvhub.com/olmercy/giving/funds
Drop off cash or a check made out to Our Lady of Mercy, with “Guatemala Mission Trip” in the memo line.
For more information, contact:
Gerri Frey at gerrifrey@gmail.com or 630-251-5221
Geri Capulong at gericapulong@gmail.com or 847-890-3891
Your generosity can transform lives. Together, let’s build homes and hope for those who need it most. Thank you!
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