Here is this week's installment of "Five Faith Friday" which contains five, faith-based things I found interesting and am sharing on Friday.
Which Picture I Found Powerful --
Not even a flood can stop these parishioners from going to Mass. As if the covid restrictions aren't bad enough (they are still at limited capacity - and maxed that out!), floodwaters took over the sanctuary of San Rafael Parish in the Philippines. It makes you reflect and ask yourself - what are you willing to do for Jesus?
What I'm Looking Forward To --
Hallowtide - the triduum of All Hallow's Eve (Halloween), All Hallow's Day (All Saint's Day), and All Soul's Day More specifically, I'm planning to take the family on All Soul's Day (Monday) to Church to pray the Our Father and the Apostle's Creed (this merits a plenary indulgence*) before heading to the cemetery to pray our daily rosary and additional prayers for the deceased. Every day from Nov 1 to Nov 8 that you devoutly visit a cemetery and pray while there grants a plenary indulgence applicable only to the souls in purgatory. I encourage everyone to do this. The souls in purgatory are often times forgotten and they need us.
*Note: All the usual conditions for indulgences need to be met
What Book I'm Reading --
"God's Smuggler" by Brother Andrew. The reviews don't lie. It has a 4.9 star rating out of 5 across 805 ratings on Amazon and it definitely lives up to the hype. It's a true story about a gentlemen who risked his life to bring the Bible to those parts of the world it was not allowed. He did it all through God's will as is seen many times throughout the book between his narrow escapes, clear direction provided to him, and graces provided. If you are looking for a fast read that is rooted in faith, give this one a go.
What I'm Reflecting On --
How sometimes the most simple of prayers can be the most powerful. To paint the picture for you, a gentlemen who was hard of hearing was sitting near me at Mass. His whispers were like my talking and his talking was like my yelling. God bless him. During the consecration I heard him repeat 3 simple words that constituted his prayer: "Jesus. Jesus. Jesus." Some people say longer, more elaborate prayers during the consecration, some people simply repeat the name of our Lord. Whatever approach you take, use this as your friendly reminder to ensure you are worshiping at Mass and not just watching and listening to the priest.
Which Article I Re-Read --
"The World's Worst Injustice" by Trent Horn. It compliments Bishop Schlert's letter extremely well. Both should be used by all individuals as they form their conscience. What is the world's worst injustice? Give the article a read... I don't want to give any spoilers.
BONUS: What I'm Reminding Myself --
Halloween is a Catholic holiday!!!
Have a wonderful weekend and may God bless you and your family!
David Yingling started his weekly “Five Faith Friday” emails when the Coronavirus forced an end to his in-person “Pints & Prayers” gatherings, which he describes as “Men striving to deepen their faith over a cold one.” He’s a member of St. Jane Frances de Chantal Parish in Easton.
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