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Villa Florencia
Villa | 3 bedrooms | sleeps 6
|Key Info
Beautiful Villa Florencia is the perfect relaxing environment for your holiday. An easy drive to Palamos, Calonge, S'Agaro & St Feliu and a short distance to Begur, Aguablava, Llafranc & Calella. The perfect get away from it all property, country views, peaceful surroundings with the beach a short drive away.
Viscondado de Cabanyes is a prestigious series of villas set upon a hillside just outside Calonge overlooking the Gavarres where you can walk, cycle or just take in the scenery. All the villas have been stylishly architecturally designed and we are lucky to have space around us with plenty of beautiful scenery. Our villa is at the end of a quiet cul de sac on level ground, some of the villas in Cabanyes have very steep drives.
The peace of Cabanyes after a busy day on the beach is fantastic and the garden is the highlight of the property with its views of the Gavarres and is very restful. The garden has sun from first thing in the morning until sunset so is perfect for evening barbecues.
|Sleeps up to 6, 3 bedrooms
|Nearest beach
|Saint Antoni de Calonge 4 km
|Car essential
|Nearest Amenities
|1 km
|Nearest travel links
|Nearest airport: Girona Airport 35 km, Nearest railway: Caldes de Malavella 20 km
|Family friendly
|Great for children of all ages, Suitable for people with restricted mobility
|No pets allowed, No smoking at this property
Features and Facilities
|Log fire, Internet access, DVD player
|Central heating, TV, CD player, Pool or snooker table, Table tennis, Safe, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi available
|Kettle, Toaster, Iron, Hair dryer
|Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Washing machine
|3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms of which 2 Family bathrooms
|Single beds (4), Double beds (1), Cots (1), Dining seats for 6, Lounge seats for 6
|Linen provided, Towels provided, High chair
|Balcony or terrace, Private garden, BBQ
|Further details indoors
The villa is open plan downstairs creating a good flow, the kitchen is well situated with a door leading outside. The lounge leads onto a large sun room where you can catch the sun from morning to evening, with views over the garden and the Gavarres.
Steps lead down to a terrace for dining or sitting overlooking the beautiful garden. The villa is set in a three quarters of an acre garden with panoramic views of the beautiful Gavarres hills.
The house is well equipped with all modern facilities. We fitted a new washing machine, oven & hob in 2013 in the kitchen. The lounge has a new satellite TV, DVDs, PS2 and games, Woodburner, and comfortable curved sofa to reflect the curved tower room. Plenty of books, children's toys, dvds, leaflets and information on what to do - from activities to restaurants. Wifi and a printer is provided. Central heating was fitted in 2014, making the house really comfortable for late breaks or even skiing an hour and a half away.
Upstairs the bedrooms with quality Designers Guild & Christy linens: king-size tower bedroom with new king-size sprung bed, views to Gavarres and opening onto a large terrace with table and chairs for morning coffee or evening drinks! The double or twin room also opens on to this. Both rooms have ceiling fans. The children's room is equipped with new bunk bed and we have a travel cot, new Graco bassinet and high chair too, there is a portable fan here.
The brand new bathroom was refitted in 2013 and has a new powerful overhead shower with screen, in the full size bath and modern features.
|Further details outdoors
The garden is great for children, while the adults have plenty of comfortable loungers for sunbathing, and seating; outside table and chairs, Weber BBQ. The pool is large, 8m x 4 with a shallow end with Roman Steps and a seating and sunbathing area around the pool, to enjoy the views.
Outside toys, pool / table tennis table, inflatables for beach, parasol, shade, boules, basketball, swingball, scooter for beach. passeig.
"Thank you for a lovely week in your wonderful house and beautiful garden! The weather was perfect and we could not have had a better break to recharge our batteries. Lynda and Marcel Oct 2013
"Thank you we had a really enjoyable week - we had everything we needed in the villa - appreciated the cookery books! Teenagers loved the water park. Beautiful beaches as advertised. Overall a great spot with lots to explore. Information files in the villa very useful for quickly identifying places of interest." Sept 1 2012
" Lovely stay. Stunning views over mountains from the terrace, which we enjoyed every evening. The villa has a beautiful garden and plenty of home essentials to make you feel at home. Would recommend all the beaches around, which are all great for the kids. Great stay". Aug 18 2012
The Catalunia region
This part of the Costa Brava is a beautiful, rugged, unique part of Spain, with its own character and language. The area attracts visitors from all over Spain and Europe who head here to enjoy the food, history, culture, scenery - sandy beaches and pine clad coves; near the Mediterranean with it's easy access and temperate climate.
The Cami de Ronda is a coastal path that winds through pine coves, past beautiful beaches & the twinkling Mediterranean, from S'Agaro in the South to Begur north of the region.
The Dali museum in Figueras and the Dali triangle is easily reached from Calonge, whilst the Picasso & Science museums, Park Guill, Sagrada Familia and Aquarium in Barcelona is an hour and ten minutes away on the train from the station at Caldes ( an easy 20 minute drive with free parking ).
kiing in Volter 2000 Camprodon is 1 hour and a half away.
Viscondado de Cabanyes is set amongst the Gavarres range of hills, so it is a peaceful spot but only a short drive - ten minutes away from the beaches and night-life or Tapas bars and restaurants of the Costa Brava - totally unspoilt by tacky tourism, this area is famed for it's culture in nearby Palamos and medieval Calonge, and further afield - 10 km to the harbours and beaches of Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell.
A five minute drive takes you to the busier town nearby for some night-life at Platja d'Aro or Saint Antoni de Calonge and the waterpark Aquadiver or the many children's activities on the sandy beaches nearby. Great restaurants, bars, shopping in Girona the lovely Rjojan and Penedes wine, and of course the Golf, PGA Catalunya and many other courses are nearby.
Great for cycling, we have plenty of information in the villa with the cycle routes, maps and books of the area.
Availability Your dates are available
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16 Jun 2012
"Luxurious, relaxing and spacious"
We travelled with our 18 month old and our 4 year old. After a drive from Barcelona, during which we got a little lost, we called the property managers Ron and Doreen, to say we were nearly there. Ron immediately drove to meet us and direct us to the villa. Throughout, we saw little of Ron and Doreen, but we always knew that if we had any questions or problems, they would be available.
The villa is set overlooking a beautiful valley of woodland. It is set in a large private garden and has a great conservatory and patio on which to relax. The beach is a short car journey away (5 mins). The town of Calonge is even closer.
There's a few sets of steps in the villa and the garden, so it might not be advisable for those just learning to walk. Overall though, it's a lovely place.
15 Jun 2012
"Beautiful villa"
We stayed at the Villa Florencia in June 2012 with our two young children. It was a beautiful villa, with great views. Really well equipped with everything we needed. It was a great place to explore the beautiful Costa Brava coast and villages.
Thankyou! We try to think of everything that you may need for families with young children and we are so glad that you enjoyed your stay, the nearby beaches and relaxing environment help!
7 Sep 2011
"what a fantastic holiday!"
We stayed here for 2 weeks, an extended family of 2 young children, 2 adults and 2 grandparents - and there was something for everyone. The villa was superb -comfortable, clean, tidy and very well equipped. It was an ideal base to explore the area, which we know very well. We visited local markets, beaches, restaurants, and had a day trip by train to Barcelona. The weather was glorious, and we all had a thoroughly enjoyable holiday. We would certainly recommend this lovely villa, and would have no hesitation in staying there again.
Thank you for your kind review, we are so glad that you enjoyed your holiday and stay at Villa Florencia. We love the villa's proximity to the sea but peaceful location - perfect for exploring the area and are also pleased that you found the Villa well equipped and comfortable.
8 Jun 2011
"Lovely villa with great views"
We had a lovely stay in May 2011. The villa is beautiful,well equipped & with very comfortable beds, nice linen etc.
In a peaceful location but plrenty to do in the area with nearby walks, beaches & restaurants.
A great base for all times of the year, we hope to return to explore some of the lovely walks in the area & maybe visit Barcelona for the day which is very accessible by train.
The owners & managing agents were very helpful but not intrusive, plenty of information available & maps & books of the area at the villa for our use.
Recommend Le Refuge de Pescadors for lunch.
Thankyou for your kind review. We furnished the villa with comfort in mind and the beds, linens, towels are all very good quality - Zara, Christy, Next .. with a lovely new kingsize sprung bed in the tower bedroom. Villa Florencia is in a tranquil spot and we are so glad you enjoyed your stay visiting the nearby beaches and villages.
This advert is created and maintained by the advertiser; we can only publish adverts in good faith as we don't own, manage or inspect any of the properties. We advise you to familiarise yourself with our terms of use.
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Calendar last updated:11 Nov 2014
Based in United Kingdom
- English
- French
Payment accepted
Paypal accepted
Credit cards accepted
- Landline
- 441202701082
- Mobile
- +44(0)7799664235
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ZBrusher Energise, flutters his way to the Top Row. Great work! His piece is featured inside the Fria Ligan paper RPG "Mutant: Year Zero" game trailer. Check out the Fria Ligan website for more about their products and games. Be sure to visit ZClassroom to learn more about enhancing the surface of your models with features like Noisemaker.
Archive for the 'Industry' Category
Page 4 of 42
Assassins Creed Unity hit the floor at E3 and immediately set the tone for revolution. The title is being hailed as "too much" for current consoles to handle and boasts a multi-player co-op experience set during the French Revolution. Vive la revolution! The trailer looks impeccable and the potential to work with up to 4 friends in a co-op mode have this blogger chomping at the bit! Be sure to learn more about how ZBrush is being used in industry by vising our ZBrush Stories pages.
By now, it's clear the quality of games at E3 2014 has left us a little more than breathless. It's getting harder and harder to get any work done around here!
The team at Digital Domain nailed this trailer for Rise Of The Tomb Raider and left the crowd in awe at the Microsoft Press Conference. Microsoft is aiming for a 2015 arrival on the Xbox One and we can hardly wait to play it. The game is being produced by the Square Enix subsidiary Crystal Dynamics. For now, we're just satisfied to take in the lush details and daydream away an afternoon in anticipation of the next chapter in the Laura Croft saga. Find out more more about Digital Domain and their other projects here.
With the excitement of the Electronic Entertainment Expo aka, E3 in the air, we've decided to take a closer look at the business of video games. With the dawn of the latest hardware comes increased graphics capability. What does that mean? More details! Where there's more details, you're sure to find more ZBrush. We'll highlight how ZBrush is playing a role in bringing your favorite next gen titles to life, while at the same time giving you the "lowdown" on the hottest new games being unveiled at the conference. Mirror's Edge carried with it a serious fan following. It's no wonder that EA Digital Illusions CE (DICE) is bringing the franchise back for a second helping. Be sure to check out this behind the scenes, "making of" with the talented men and women at DICE for a glimpse of ZBrush in action. Here's to the team that keeps us living on the edge!
ZBrusher Globy hits full stride with this ZBSee post. Check out a user gallery that's sure to have you running for your stylus to keep up! There's a collection of traditionally inspired works and even a rendition of jolly old Saint Nick inside! Be sure to visit our Pixologic Download Center for an incredible collection of plugins and downloadable resources.
Materials, render passes and concept illustration are the name of the game inside ZBSee artist TomatoVFX's thread. Adding to the already impressive breakdowns and information is a collection of cloth draping brushes. Be sure to download these great resources today. Look inside the TomatoVFX user gallery for even more digital sculpting goodies. If it's resources you need, don't delay! Visit the ZBrush download center for everything from materials, alphas, plugins and a whole lot more.
The annual CG Student Awards have been conferred. This year's entries were nothing short of mind blowing. Alas, there's got to be a winner in each category. Be sure to visit the CG Student Awards website for a closer look at this year's champs! We are so excited to see this new flock of ZBrushers showcasing their skills on the global stage. Good luck and happy ZBrushing until next year!
Stop-motion film making is a demanding art form. From the creation of "physical" sets and characters to the painstaking capture of movement, every scene demands attention to detail. The "Feast In A Fallen City" takes the time honored tradition of stop-motion film-making and gives it a jolt of modern technology. Using ZBrush and 3D printing technology to realize his designs, director Aron Bothman, a student at the California Institute of the Arts, took full advantage of everybody's favorite "digital clay" while bringing his tale to life. Be sure to watch the "making of video" for a behind the scenes look at how it all came together.
Handling the finer details looks to be ZBSee member pharrisgenois' strong suit. It's early in pharrisgenois' ZBSee posting career but by the look of it, we can expect to see some cool work going forward. There's a couple of breakdowns on generating everything from an armoured chest plate to a tattered shawl. You can generate your own armour by utilizing features like masking, extractions, Dynamesh and ZRemesher. Look inside ZClassroom to find video tutorials guaranteed to leave you inspired.
ZBSee artist, Itay Schlesinger sounds off his arrival by blowing a steam whistle for his latest digital clay contributions. Visit his user gallery to see everything from a medieval inspired chess set to a swashbuckling dog.

subset: commoncrawl


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Contra 4 has really undergone some serious changes for its Japanese release and it's getting less manly by the moment. In fact, these people promoting the game don't seem to have a single chest hair. There's nary a headband in sight. Those muscles are absolutely pitiful. What have you done, Konami? This is the last straw! Someone needs to draw mustaches on these girls and maybe whip up a couple of protein shakes immediately.
Where's Nintendo Power? They know what Contra is really all about: pure, undiluted beefcakery. Accept no substitute.
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About CR
Contact Us
Mrs. Patti Murphy Dohn recently retired after 33 years of service as Campus Minister and Religion teacher at The John Carroll School in Bel Air, MD. Committed to making a difference in the lives of our youth and their families, she served the school community since 1981.
Patti was awarded the Medal of Honor in Youth and Young Adult Ministry by the Archdiocese of Baltimore in 2012.
Patti Murphy Dohn continues her service to the Archdiocese on the Screening Board for the Office of Vocations. She was previously a board member for the Msgr. O'Dwyer Retreat House in Sparks, MD. and St. Margaret School in Bel Air.
Along with writing for "The Catholic Review," Patti is a member of the Catholic Press Association, as well as the Catholic Writers Guild and the Associated Church Press.
Patti Murphy Dohn is available for speaking engagements and retreat work.
She can be reached at: email@example.com
Twitter: @JCSMinistry
God is good!! All the time!!
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Joe, it's very well said. I couldn't agree more.
Lisa's questions are fair and need to be addressed. The headlines news about the sexual abuse is almost like on daily basis. You can't just ignore it because you don't like hearing people talking about it. We Catholics need to face this issue, it is really out there.
As a practicing and faith-filled Catholic, I watched this and felt both uplifted and a bit off-put. The community and religious were well-spoken and quite genuine. The altar server was remarkably wise, confident and not at all self-conscious. There was no public relations agenda nor apparent self-promotion nor defensive reaction to impertinence. I share this author's resistance to laud the piece. It left, even me, a senior citizen lay minister, with a sense that these young people were different, odd, in fact. Of course, they are special but I was slightly influenced to doubt their choice. It didn't help that the promo for the following "This is Life" focused on Salt Lake City's drug addiction problem among Latter Day Saints. The lingering message that faith in God is for the strange and marginalized even in the face of contrary reporting. Thank God and faith-filled communities for refusing to be cowards.
O Lord that lends me life,
Lend me a heart replete with thankfulness.
—William Shakespeare
Last year I featured a "Countdown to Thanksgiving" with prayers, meditations, and music for this season of gratitude.
Today I am sharing the best of that series with a selection of special prayers for you to use when choosing the perfect blessing for your family's Thanksgiving dinner.
Blessing 1:
Loving God,
We gather in prayer on this Thanksgiving Day to acknowledge with grateful hearts our many gifts and blessings.
Thank You for the overflowing goodness of Your love for us as seen both on and around this table.
Bless all who made it possible for us to share this meal, especially those who cooked and baked and all those who work the land, farmers and harvesters of this bounty.
Bless us as we share from their labors.
Bless each of us gathered at this table. Help us to grow in love for one another.
Bless all those who are in need and help us care for them as generously as You care for us.
As we gather we remember too those who have gone before us who rejoice in Your glorious presence with the angels and the saints.
May we always remember them and honor their memories with love.
With gratitude in our hearts for all blessings big and small, we pray in Jesus' name.
Blessing 2 from the Sisters of Saint Francis:
Thanksgiving Day Dinner Blessing:
Bless this food we have before us, O God.
Let it provide the nourishment we need.
Bless this family and our friends gathered around this table.
Let us be nourished by our love and care for one another.
Bless those who have less than we have.
Let our eyes be open to their needs.
Bless us as we bless your holy name on this day of thanksgiving.
Let us praise and thank you always in Jesus' name.
Blessing 3: For families with young children and persons with disabilities:
This litany also comes from the Sisters of Saint Francis who have wonderful prayer resources on their website. The repetition of the words "We thank you" is easy for children. Additional mention of gifts and blessings can be added after the ones suggested here.
Litany of Thanksgiving:
For the gift of life: We thank you.
For the gift of family: We thank you.
For the gift of this food: We thank you.
For our friends: We thank you.
For laughter: We thank you.
For our safety: We thank you.
For our shelter: We thank you.
For the gift of love: We thank you.
For the abundance of your love, O God: We thank you.
Luann comic by Greg Evans
Blessing 4: For families who mourn and grieve the loss of a loved one this Thanksgiving:
Light a candle at your table as you offer up this prayer-poem:
A Thanksgiving Prayer for Grieving Families:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please join our family on this Thanksgiving day,
And bless each one as we sit down to pray.
As we remember those who have joined You above
So dearly missed and deeply loved.
Please provide us strength on this Thanksgiving Day:
Bless us with memories of those faraway.
Please grant patience to family and friends as we grieve
And help us reach out to others who are bereaved.
We give thanks to You on this Thanksgiving day:
For Your presence in our lives each and every day,
For Your comfort, guidance, and never-ending love,
And for taking care of our loved ones in Heaven above.
As we light this candle on this Thanksgiving day,
And it glows in memory of those in Heaven today:
May their lights always shine down on us and give us light,
And may we feel their presence along with Yours tonight.
May the peace and tranquility of this Thanksgiving day
Be an everlasting light within each of us along the way.
Let's bow our heads and give our Thanks to God above
For our blessings, whether on earth or in Heaven above.
Drawing by Allen Bryant
Read my reflections on the difficulties presented by the holidays for families who are struggling with grief, serious illness, family disharmony, or loneliness in "God is in the clouds at Thanksgiving."
Blessing 5:
A Thanksgiving Day Prayer:
Lord, so often times, as any other day,
When we sit down to our meal and pray,
We hurry along and make fast the blessing
Thanks, Amen. Now please pass the dressing.
We're slaves to the olfactory overload.
We must rush our prayer before the food gets cold.
But Lord, I'd like to take a few minute more
To really give thanks to what I'm thankful for:
For my family, my health, a nice soft bed,
My friends, my freedom, a roof over my head.
I'm thankful right now to be surrounded by those
Whose lives touch me more than they'll ever possibly know.
Thankful Lord, that You've blessed me beyond measure.
Thankful that in my heart lives life's greatest treasure.
That You, dear Jesus, reside in that place
And I'm ever so grateful for Your unending grace.
So please, heavenly Father, bless this food You've provided
And bless each and every person invited.
By: Scott Wesemann
Thanksgiving by Joe Heller
Blessing 6:
Lord, we thank you
for the goodness of our people
and for the spirit of justice
that fills this nation.
We thank you for the beauty and fullness of the
land and the challenge of the cities.
We thank you for our work and our rest,
for one another, and for our homes.
We thank you, Lord:
accept our thanksgiving on this day.
We pray and give thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord.
--Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers
Blessing 7:
Help Me Thanksgiving Day Prayer
O God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.
--Samuel F. Pugh
Thanksgiving Prayer for Travelers:
Prayer For Safe Travel:
O God, our heavenly Father, whose glory fills the whole creation,
and whose presence we find wherever we go:
Preserve those who travel;
surround them with your loving care;
protect them from every danger;
and bring them in safety to their journey's end;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
God's richest blessings to you and your family!!
November 25, 2014 11:15
By Patti Murphy Dohn
November 19, 2014 12:09
By Patti Murphy Dohn
I got an email yesterday from the senior publicist for CNN's Lisa Ling, former co-host of ABC's "The View," inviting me to preview the last program in her documentary series "This is Life." This investigative program, which highlights "ordinary people with extraordinary lives," airs Sunday evenings at 10 pm ET/PT.
Last week was Vocation Awareness Week and I had just featured a look at religious life and Holy Orders in "God is in the Clouds," so I was intrigued.
The CNN website is widely promoting this Sunday's episode:
"Lisa Ling goes inside a Michigan town to uncover why so many men there -- including twin brothers -- are drawn to the priesthood."
Other plugs for this episode on the series homepage include yesterday's article "Confessions of a Catholic priest" by America editor at large Fr. James Martin, SJ:
"Would you sign up for a job that requires celibacy and sometimes evokes public scrutiny? One Jesuit father explains why he became a priest and reveals the ups and downs of his profession." --CNN
Reflections on previewing this program:
I watched "Called to the Collar" last night and spent a lot of time afterwards pondering the "investigative" slant of this particular program, the last of this year's series. There was much that was done extremely well with regard to understanding vocations to the priesthood and high interest in seminary in the Diocese of Lansing, but something wasn't sitting well with me. It all started at the beginning....
Lisa Lings's opening lines while driving her car set the stage:
"Catholicism is one of the biggest religions in the world, but news of scandal in the Catholic Church involving priests has been virtually inescapable over the last decade. As a result, people espousing strong faith have been on the decline...
I'm heading to a rural patch in Michigan where Catholicism is thriving and where priests are considered cool."
"Called to the Collar" takes us to the Village of Fowler, Michigan, a rural farming community of just over 1200 residents in the Diocese of Lansing. There we meet a family with deep roots in dairy farming with sons who have been called by God to the priesthood.
Identical twins Gary and Todd Koenigsknecht, now age 26, were both ordained to the priesthood in June. Interviewed at their family home on the dairy farm, as well as at their respective first parish assignments, both men tell the story of their call to the priesthood and the discernment process that followed. They share about the many joys they have experienced in their first parish assignments, received just six weeks earlier, as well as the challenges they face due to their young age and being new to the job.
Fr. Gary explains the privilege,
"Just as a father is called to provide for his children, my duty then is to help my people grow in holiness and to put their needs before my own."
Fr. Todd speaks of their ordination day this past June:
"It's hard to put into words... It was one of the most powerful,and joyful moments of my life and I couldn't stop smiling the entire day."
Father John Linden, Vocations Director for the Lansing Diocese, can't resist a playful moment after the ordination Mass of Father Todd, left, and Father Gary Koenigsknecht, as he holds a chasuble up to their 19-year-old brother, Lee, who just finished his first year of seminary. (Photo: Christina Capecchi / The Visitor)
Lisa Ling follows Fathers Gary and Todd as they minister to their new parishes. Tune in on Sunday night at 10 pm to see them celebrate Mass, baptize new members, visit the area hospital to anoint a woman suffering from liver disease as she awaits a transplant, reflect on loneliness (Fr. Gary: "A wise priest once told me: When you feel the loneliness, don't run away from it, turn it over to Jesus and see what he does."), and look back on hearing their first confessions, answering whether it's difficult to be nonjudgmental.
Those you will meet in "Called to the Collar:"
Meet the twins' parents, Agnes and Brian Koenigsknecht, who speak of their support for their sons' calling and quickly dismiss the question about not having grandchildren by explaining that "not everyone is called to marriage." It's good to note that the Koenigsknechts actually have ten children.
Agnes belongs to a support group for the mothers of seminarians. You will meet these women who explain that unless you have a son in the seminary you can't understand the challenges faced by both the sons and their families... Learn how they react to people who regularly remind them that they won't be grandmothers, and to those who are negative about the notion of priesthood as a vocation, as these proud Moms discuss the critical need to pray for their sons as they journey through the seminary years.
A focus on their tiny hometown of Fowler, which includes one restaurant, two bridal shops, and a Catholic book-gift shop, reveals a largely Catholic, very faithful population. The owner of the Catholic shop shares that the local youth are "on fire for their faith." Asked about vocations to the priesthood, she replied without hesitation, "I would love to have a son that's a priest. That's every mothers dream in this community."
We meet the twins' Uncle Bill--Fr. William Koenigsknecht--and their younger brother Lee, age 19, who is discerning his vocation at this time. Speaking of being inspired by his older brothers, Lee explains, "They want to share God's love... I want to be able to do the same amount of good." Now in his second year of seminary at University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, Lee speaks of homesickness during the first semester and how he overcame those feelings and adjusted to seminary life. He also addresses the issue of celibacy and not dating, especially when his seminary is located on a coed campus and women attend his college classes.
Meet the local pastor, Fr. Dennis Howard of Most Holy Trinity Church who has served the Catholic community for seven years. Asked why Catholicism is flourishing in Fowler,
"It's deeply rooted in the community. It is amazing how many people are really committed to preserving the faith and passing it on to their children."
Regarding vocations to the priesthood and four of his youth who are in discernment, Fr. Dennis reflected, "I think our job as parishes is to create an openness in the young people... Is this something God may be calling you to? We are aggressively trying to evangelize our young people. We provide lots of opportunities for them to encounter the Lord Jesus."
Watch this involved pastor playing volleyball and barbecuing with his youth group:
"Food is a great evangelization tool."
Meet 14-year old Charlie who has been an altar server since age 9. When asked if he has ever considered becoming a priest, Charlie smiled and said, "I'm open to it."
Lisa Ling presses on, "Has the Lord spoken to you?" to which Charlie eloquently responded, "I pray about it, asking the Lord what He wants me to be, but I haven't heard an answer yet, but you just keep on praying."
Rev. Mathias Thelen, faculty member at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit, with parishioners at Queen of Miraculous Medal Catholic Church (Photo: Citizen Patriot file photo)
Meet 32-year old Fr. Matthias Thelen, a former sports star who had lots of girlfriends during his high school days, whose life changed when he started going to youth group:
"I started hearing the Gospel for the first time in a way that I could understand it. My heart started to grow in love with Jesus in a way that it had never had before."
Matthias entered the seminary "right after the scandals broke in the Church" as he wanted to "proclaim God in a world that is hurting."
He reflects on celibacy, the joys of the priesthood, and his new assignment at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit where he now works with spiritual formation and mentoring the next generation of priests.
Bishop Earl Boyea, fifth Bishop of Lansing
Photo: Diocese of Lansing
Meet Bishop Earl Boyea of the Diocese of Lansing, Michigan. The number of seminarians in his diocese has doubled over the last decade, with an average of almost thirty each year.
Listen to his responses when questioned about the priest abuse scandal and asked if mandatory celibacy has anything to do with what happened.
Lisa Ling noted to the bishop that there had been an accusation against a priest from Lansing, to which the bishop could not comment due to the nature of the investigation.
Bear in mind, it is not until the end of the show at the closing production credits that a written clarification notes that the Lansing priest in question was exonerated at the end of the investigation. Too bad most people will change the channel and miss seeing that update.
Photo: Catching Time Films
The program concludes:
The program concludes with Lisa Ling sharing a beer with seminarians at O'Berg's, the seminary pub. One of them told her, "The world needs priests that love Jesus, that love the people, so I want to be one of those guys that can do that."
Ling's final notes are actually pretty positive and upbeat.
She admits that it's "a radical decision to become a priest" and that she "really admires all these young men who want to change the perception of what it means to be a priest.... This is a brotherhood and, while they're young, despite feeling the weight of societal pressure, this life brings them overwhelming joy, and they're exactly where they want to be."
My perspective:
This program presents the increase in vocations to the priesthood and seminary enrollment in the Diocese of Lansing, highlighting the daily life, ministry, and family of several men.
These scenes were very well done. I'm sure they will be informative to those who tune in on Sunday, especially interested non-Catholics.
But I mentioned at the beginning that something didn't sit well with me....
My main concern about this program is the recurring theme that questions why a man would choose priesthood when there is the "stigma" caused by the priest abuse scandal. I suppose the investigative nature of the series chose this slant in order to increase public interest. They are in the rating business, yes?
Some of the following lines were used by Lisa Ling in reference to the seminary and priesthood while interviewing the men featured in "Called to the Collar:"
"....considering an occupation plagued by controversy."
"To find out who in the face of church scandal would choose the priesthood..."
"Much of the world now views the clergy with skepticism..."
"Large percentage that say priests are synonymous with abusers..."
Personally, I detest the unending negativity of the secular media surrounding the men who serve in the priesthood and who have been victimized by this negative perceptive over the past decade. The abuse scandal, as horrific and evil as it is, was perpetrated and covered up by a tiny percentage of Catholic clergy. The rest of the clergy and our seminarians continue to suffer from this horrible image portrayed by those who wish to bring the Church down. It appalls me. Lest we forget, other communities too have suffered similar crises. Reprehensible as this abuse has been, we must defend and support our priests, most of whom are good and holy servants of God and His Church.
A different slant?
After working with youth for almost forty years in parish religious education programs and as Campus Minister at John Carroll, I would have been more interested in exploring the deep faith and high vocations rate of this community in light of a contemporary culture that is largely unchurched, where many families who claim to be "Catholic" don't attend Mass except for "CEO" --Christmas, Easter, and other occasions such as funerals. That particular focus is worthy of an investigation and would share the joy of religious vocations and priesthood with others who might be inspired to return actively to their faith.
But I guess that slant wouldn't boost ratings.....
Input from the Diocese of Lansing:
I called the Diocese of Lansing to get their input on this documentary and found that Bishop Boyea is still in Baltimore for post-USCCB committee meetings. His assistant Julie was lovely and connected me with their Office of Vocations.
Fr. John Linden, Lansing's Director of Vocations and Seminarians, called me back while driving to St. John Vianney College Seminary at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Fr. John Linden, Director of Vocations and Seminarians, Diocese of Lansing (Photo: Diocese of Lansing)
Giving the background, Fr. Linden explained that the producer of "This is Life" had gotten in touch with the diocese early on about doing this segment in the Lansing area and explained their hope to focus on the high numbers of priestly vocations, highlighting the Koenigsknecht family. Citing an article done in June by "The New York Times" on the twins' ordinations, Fr. Linden was optimistic about this segment on CNN. "The New York Times did a fantastic job... We thought this was a good opportunity and that Lisa Ling would do something along those lines."
Referring to the documentary's recurring questions regarding the abuse scandal, Fr. Linden explained that during filming those questions kept coming up, and the priests and seminarians who were interviewed tried to eventually lead the conversation away from this topic, but found that they couldn't get away from it.
Fr. Linden further explained that though the topic of clergy abuse was brought up in each of the interviews done for "Called to the Collar," it is his hope that Ling's program will "open the door for people who are searching for answers and who might take another look to the Church and see why someone might seek out the Catholic faith."
He continued, "Tragically, this type of abuse is nowhere near exclusive to the Catholic Church. It has impacted virtually all other faith communities. It's a cultural problem which pervades all faiths and institutions.... On the other hand, we pray that viewers will see the young men featured in this program and be inspired by their faithful witness."
The bottom line:
I'm praying along with Fr. Linden that viewers might be inspired by the ministry and youthful enthusiasm of the men interviewed and become more active in their faith.
Watch and see what you think:
Email and let me know your thoughts: email@example.com
Check out the trailer of "Called to the Collar:"
"Lisa takes you into the world of the priesthood. Rebuilding a religion - one priest at a time. This is Life with Lisa Ling Sunday 11/16 at 10pm ET/PT."
November 14, 2014 10:36
By Patti Murphy Dohn
The Archdiocese of Baltimore was established on November 6, 1789.
In this 225th anniversary year, we are celebrating with special events and lots of historic memories.;
Last Sunday, a special anniversary Mass was celebrated by Archbishop William E. Lori at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen to mark this festive occasion.
Check out the 225th anniversary slideshow from the Archdiocese of Baltimore here.
Join us for a video pilgrimage of historic sites:
Perhaps you will be inspired to visit the following historic landmarks in person.
1. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary:
Have you been to America's First Cathedral?
Enjoy this one-minute video:
Want to read about the historic visit of Mother Teresa to the Baltimore Basilica?
Photos and story included here in "God is in the Clouds."
2. The Cathedral of Mary Our Queen:
Enjoy this one-minute video:
Read more here about Cardinal Lawrence Shehan, the 12th Archbishop of Baltimore, whose ministry centered on key events held at this beautiful cathedral, including his 1984 Funeral Mass.
3. Hike Catholic Baltimore's Main Street: Charles Street:
This two-and-a half minute video-walk down Memory Lane includes: Homewood Museum, home of Charles Carroll of Homewood; the location of the old O'Neill's Department Store, Homewood House at Johns Hopkins University, the Baltimore Museum of Art,
4. St. Mary's Seminary and University: http://www.stmarys.edu/
Visit America's first seminary in this one-minute video.
Read more in Elizabeth Lowe's "A day in the life at St. Mary's Seminary and University"
Includes a wonderful 52-photo slideshow by Catholic Review Staff Photographer Tom McCarthy Jr.
5. The first and only papal visit to the Archdiocese of Baltimore:
Were you present at one of the most historic moments ever in Baltimore Church history: the 1995 visit of Pope St. John Paul II?
What a great memory recaptured here in this one-and-a half minute video:
Read more about that historic day with more photos here in God is in the Clouds.
6. The Catholic Review produced this 5-minute overview of "Two Days in the Life of the Archdiocese of Baltimore."
Staff Photographer Tom McCarthy Jr. logged 40 hours and travelled 530 miles from sunrise October 1 to sunset October 2 to capture a vast myriad of the activities occurring all over our Premier See.
To read more about the places and activities included in the video, read here.
7. The National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes at Mount St. Mary's Seminary and University:
We hope you have enjoyed this video-pilgrimage and will take the opportunity to visit some of our landmark locations in the Archdiocese of Baltimore during your family's next free weekend or vacation.
There's so much to see in your Premier See.
God is good... All the time!!
November 10, 2014 11:39
By Patti Murphy Dohn
A series on grief and mourning for the month of November:
Hannah Mackensie Kriss, John Carroll Class of 2012
One of the most unnatural things in this world is for a parent to bury their child. Chuck and Lisa Kriss of Forest Hill can attest to this with great sadness.
Their youngest daughter, Hannah Mackensie Kriss was just 18 years old when she died in a three-car accident in Joppa two months after her 2012 graduation from The John Carroll School. A competitive hip-hop dancer and cheerleader, Hannah was also a coach at VIP Athletics, formerly known as Vipers All-Star Cheer and Dance.
Lighting up the hallways and classrooms at John Carroll with her huge smile, Hannah was well-loved by her teachers and her huge group of classmates. I had known Hannah and her family for many years. Her older brother went to school with my son since their preschool days at nearby St. Margaret School.
Photo from the Kriss Family
Hannah's Mom, Lisa Kriss, shared about the beauty of her beloved youngest daughter.
"Hannah lived her life to the fullest. She felt that her calling was to help others at all times. We believed she was secure within herself throughout her life. Hannah was a cheerleader and phenomenal dancer/performer. The stage was her second home."
Sadly, Hannah's beautiful smile was to become a beautiful memory. Just five weeks after celebrating her festive Fourth of July birthday, Hannah died tragically in that horrific car accident.
Lisa and Chuck spoke about August 14, 2012:
"Hannah wasn't feeling well, so she called out of work that day and went to visit a friend. We found out about the car accident that afternoon."
Helpful expressions of concern:
Chuck and Lisa Kriss share what helped their family deal with this unimaginable loss:
1. Smile:
"Show warmth and care in your eyes and your smile. Try to share the pain through your eyes. Words are NOT needed."
2. Food:
"Immediately our community responded with food. That was comforting to our family. It allowed us to not worry about the next meal. We found a large need to just be together. Lots of tears, anger, frustration, we were allowed to let it all out, together."
3. Show up:
"Many people appeared to support us. We filled the big church, standing room only, at Hannah's memorial mass. Her high school's football team came as a unit. Powerful presence. Support. Love."
4. Clergy care:
"Father Mike ( Msgr. Michael Schleupner) at St. Margaret Church was most helpful with his presence, his demeanor, his support. He is still a source of comfort for us, every weekend in Church. We look for Father Mike. We know he is ALWAYS available for us."
5. Talk:
"Even though it was definitely painful and we cried, we wanted people to talk about Hannah and remind us what a good old soul she was in life."
6. Cards and Mass cards:
"(These acknowledgements)... help you know that you are thought of and prayed for."
7. The Hannah Kriss Foundation:
"We started "The Hannah Kriss Foundation" in response to all of the donations that poured in. We did not want the money to be spent on flowers, rather we wanted to find a way to help others, by paying it forward. We have supported the middle school retreat program at St. Margaret School for the past two years. We funded Net Ministries to provide the annual retreats for the sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. We will continue to do so. We also provide scholarships to cheerleaders/dancers at Vipers, which was where Hannah danced and cheered.
"In order to fund the Foundation, we have an annual walk/race in May. It is refreshing to have everyone come together, family, friends, community members. We are always surprised each year with a new person whom Hannah had influence over that we did not know about before.
"We are constantly looking for other opportunities to pay it forward. That is our Hannah..."
What was NOT helpful?
Lisa and Chuck share: "Grief is such a personal thing."
1. No one should ever say, "This shall pass." It does not pass. You learn to live your life differently. Your grief will be with you forever.
2. If you have not lost a child, don't say you understand: You do not know the pain.
3. Don't ask, "What can I do?" If you don't know, don't ask.
4. Don't assume that all is ever well. Life is forever changed.
5. Don't think there is a mourning period, then it's over.
"We feel pain everyday-at odd times-and have learned to say to ourselves "don't go there, get it together."
After the post-funeral luncheon on August 18, 2012, an open-microphone wake service was held at St. Mary Magdalen Mission so that all the young people who knew Hannah through school or the dance/cheer programs could express their memories and process their grief together. (Photo by Patti Murphy Dohn)
Lisa and Chuck's advice to those who are newly grieving:
2. Be alone--or be with someone--when needed.
3. Do WHATEVER it takes to find your center.
"In our family, Hannah's older sister became a nurse and a yoga instructor-she helps others at all times. Hannah's older brother is becoming a nurse-he has found his calling. Hannah's younger brother has been active in peer ministry and as a peer educator at Calvert Hall. He will attend Mount Saint Mary's University in the Fall of 2015."
5. Seek solace-anywhere you can.
"Find PEACE for yourself."
6. Change up your life:
"Live to please others. Find grace in GOD."
7. Talk to others, as you are comfortable.
8. Talk about your loved one.
"Others will "tiptoe" around you because they don't want you to get upset. I want to talk about Hannah. I constantly reference her--so no one forgets. I remember, so I want everyone else to remember her."
8. Don't worry about "giving away" the items that belonged (to your loved one).... Keep them as long as you want.
"When the Hurricane Sandy struck in New Jersey and our community was taking clothes to those who lost everything, we gathered all of Hannah's clothes, and a friend delivered them to the needy community. That helped us to know that Hannah was still helping others.
"It will never get easy. I am still finding items that I forgot I had saved...such as cards and pictures that Hannah made for us. I still cry everyday."
9. Talk to your loved one:
"Do it aloud, or in your mind, or while doing chores. You are totally sane. Talking is comfort."
Graduation day at John Carroll: June 2, 2012
Lisa and Chuck's advice to those who want to help someone who is grief:
2. Pray with them.
3. Don't stop offering to be with them, even if they are NOT ready yet.
"Don't forget them."
4. Don't act like life is normal:
"It is not normal and will never be normal again... A piece is missing. Acknowledge that loss and be upfront and honest. Tell them you don't know how they feel, but you will always be available."
5. Be patient with them.
6. If you find a picture of their loved one, among your own pictures, share it:
"One of my favorite pictures of Hannah came from a stranger who knew it would bring us comfort. Hannah was cheering at a high school football game, smiling up at heaven."
7. Random acts of kindness are priceless-pay it forward always.
8. Silence and forgetting about the death are WRONG.
The Kriss Family gathers to pray and remember at Hannah's final resting place
(Photo from Andrew Kriss)
"Think of your child, then, not as dead, but as living; not as a flower that has withered, but as one that is transplanted, and touched by a Divine hand, is blooming in richer colors."
--Richard Hooker (1554–1600), Anglican theologian
How faith helped the Kriss Family during their pain and sorrow?
Lisa and Chuck share:
"Our faith has saved us. We did not realize how much we needed help from our Church-daily through prayer and weekly through Mass.
"We know our Hannah's life had purpose. She has saved us all. We all live differently now because of Hannah."
On regrets:
"Yes, it should not have taken her passing to make us live our lives differently. We believe with all our hearts that we will be reunited again some day.
"We believe that Hannah is with God. She is an angel who helps God and others at all times... Hannah helps us too. We all talk to her and to God.
"God has a plan for all of us. We need to find our purpose and live each day with that in mind. We know God is Good."
On other family deaths:
"In January 2009, Hannah's grandfather, my Dad, died of a heart attack. Then in June 2012, Hannah's godmother, Chuck's aunt, died of cancer, just two months before Hannah's death. We believe these two untimely deaths were preparation for what happened to Hannah. We believe these two were with Hannah to help her transition to heaven.
"We also needed to go through that grieving process so we were better prepared for Hannah's passing."
On remembering:
"Having a whole school community pray for Hannah is comforting. Annual All Soul's Day Masses at John Carroll are hard, but necessary."
Looking for signs of comfort:
Lisa shares: "Everyday, we look for signs, as we know Hannah is with us... a shooting star, a feather, numbers, songs.
"I recall one particular day when I was having a horrible day... I could not stop crying, and I needed to put on my game face for work. I was driving along the beltway and turned on the radio to get the weather report since snow was in the forecast.
"Immediately a song came on that was the "calming" song of Hannah's cheer team before they took the floor to perform. I cried even harder, but smiled even more. She was communicating with me through song, I just know it."
After the post-funeral luncheon and open microphone wake service for young people was held at St. Mary Magdalen Mission on August 18, 2012, there was a memorial launching of Chinese lanterns. (Photos by Patti Murphy Dohn)
"Memories with Hannah"
Video tribute by Adam Lazoff, Kelly McCormick, Callie Hentz, and Jackie Mooney, John Carroll Class of 2012
November 06, 2014 02:01
By Patti Murphy Dohn
"Nothing is more practical than finding God, than falling in Love in a quite absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you do with your evenings, how you spend your weekends, what you read, whom you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with joy and gratitude. Fall in Love, stay in love, and it will decide everything."
~Very Rev. Pedro Arrupe, SJ (1907-1991), the 28th Superior General of the Society of Jesus
November 2-8, 2014 marks National Vocation Awareness Week here in the United States. Sponsored by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops since 1976, this annual celebration focuses on promoting "vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations."
As a huge proponent of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, as well as a member of the Screening Board for Archdiocese of Baltimore's Office of Vocations, I have always been an advocate for those discerning God's will for their lives. Religious sisters, brothers, and priests have been a huge part of my lifelong faith journey.
Today I feature a look at vocational discernment with three persons who have committed their lives to the service of God and His Church.
Rev. James Martin, SJ
"Mwamini Mungu si mtovu." (Who trusts in God lacks nothing.)
--Swahili Proverb
Fr. James Martin, SJ is a familiar name in many Catholic households. He is a Jesuit priest, editor at large of America magazine and the author of numerous essays and books, including "Jesus: A Pilgrimage," "My Life with the Saints" and "Becoming Who You Are."
After graduating from Penn's Wharton School of Business in 1982 and working for six years in corporate finance for General Electric, Jim entered the Jesuit novitiate on August 28, 1988. The journey toward final profession included many steps and milestones, three of which were: profession of First Vows on August 19, 1990, his ordination to the priesthood on June 13, 1999, and professing Final Vows on All Saints Day, November 1, 2009. In Fr. Martin's words, "Jesuit formation is pretty long!"
Why the Jesuits?
Fr. Martin shares:
"I didn't know much about the Jesuits and had also considered the diocesan clergy as well. My first "pull" was to the priesthood, not religious life, since I didn't know much about religious life at all. But once I met the Jesuits I felt that I had found what I was looking for. They just "clicked" with me. Their open-minded and world-affirming spirituality seemed to make so much sense."
What are the joys of religious life?
"Countless! For me, being a religious and being a priest means not only deepening my own relationship with God, but helping others deepen theirs. That's my greatest joy: helping others see God's presence in their lives."
Fr. Martin's advice to young people discerning their vocation:
"Trust your deepest desires. That attraction you feel to your vocation or to a particular way of life, whatever it is, is God's calling you."
On his ministry in Nairobi:
"The most exciting, satisfying and fulfilling apostolate in my time as a Jesuit was working with the Jesuit Refugee Service in Nairobi, Kenya. I was there for two years, as part of my Jesuit training, helping East African refugees start small business. I couldn't believe how much fun it was, or how fulfilling it was. There is nothing like working with the materially poor. God is so close to them, and by being with them you feel closer to God yourself."
Read more about Fr. Martin's time in Nairobi in his 1999 book "This Our Exile: A Spiritual Journey with the Refugees of East Africa."
Orbis Books writes
Seamlessly combining spiritual writing, reportage, travel narrative, humor, and recent history, bestselling author James Martin recalls his time as a young Jesuit working with the refugees in the slums of Nairobi, Kenya. Drawing on his previous experience in the business world, he imagined that he had much to teach the refugees. But they would end up teaching him much more about life, about survival and faith, and about love and friendship.
With stories that are by turns frankly incredible, darkly comic, inspirational, tragic, and always provocative, this compelling work is a wonderfully realized tribute to our shared humanity."
Ministry with the Jesuit Refugee Service (1992-1994):
Photos and captions from Fr. James Martin, SJ:
"Adjudicating a dispute between a Rwandese women's sewing cooperative sponsored by Jesuit Refugee Service/East Africa (the Splendid Tailoring Shop and School) and their landlord. We're in the Riruta neighborhood in Nairobi. Gauddy Ruzage, whose story is told in "This Our Exile," is in the orange print dress. You can see that Gauddy was not happy with her landlord that day. Their shop was above Ray's Butchery."
"With Cesaire Mukamwiza Kanjoui, a Rwandese refugee (and former nurse) who made lovely necklaces and bracelets that we sold in the Mikono Centre, in the Kangemi section of Nairobi. We're sitting on the porch of the Mikono Centre, where the refugees used to congregate. The signs in the window (announcements of coming events) were always written in five languages: English, French, Swahili, Kinyarwanda and Luganda." (The story of Mikono Centre is told in "This Our Exile.") Photo: Michael Coyne/JRS
"With the staff of the Mikono Center, the JRS income-generating office and shop, in Nairobi, near St. Joseph the Worker Church. Patricia Njeri, Virginia Gatonye, Michael Schopf, SJ, and a visiting Loretto Sister. That sign was carved by a Mozambiquan refugee named Tom Peter Zuze."
Sister Philip Joseph Davis, OP
"Always keep in mind that God wants Mount de Sales Academy. The evidence is all around you. He has helped us thus far, and will continue to do so if we believe in our hearts, minds and souls that God will provide. Whatever He wants will happen. If He doesn't want it, we don't want it either. We are happy only to the extent that we do His will. If we impede His will, He will always bring good out of our mistakes."
--Sister Philip Joseph Davis, OP speaks of her dreams for Mount de Sales Academy during her farewell in June
One of the many joys of my service on the Screening Board for Archdiocese of Baltimore's Office of Vocations was working with the beautiful and inspiring Dominican, Sister Philip Joseph Davis, OP.
The former Director of Academy Advancement at Mount de Sales Academy, she was one of three sisters who arrived to administrate the school in 1985, starting what Fr. Michael Roach, pastor of St. Bartholomew Church in Manchester, called the "Dominican Renaissance."
A daughter of Nashville:
Three months after her graduation from St. Cecelia Academy in Nashville, the former Miss Davis joined the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecelia, professing her first vows two years later on the Feast of St. Anthony, June 13, 1964. Sister Philip taught first grade at a Nashville parochial school before returning to her high school alma mater to teach Religion and serve as Guidance Counselor until 1984.
Welcome to Baltimore:
When Sister Philip arrived at Mount de Sales Academy the following school year, enrollment was 180 girls. She was named principal, serving from 1986-1988, while increasing enrollment and overseeing renovations and updates in the aged facility.
After four years back in Nashville, Sister Philip returned to MDSA in 1992, working primarily as Director of Academy Advancement. Among the major projects she spearheaded were a new gym which was dedicated by Cardinal Keeler in 1998, the restoration of Alumnae Hall in 2001, the new convent in 2011, and new turf fields in 2013.
Honoring Sister Philip's ministry:
Mount de Sales held a festive celebration this past June 1 which included a tribute in honor of Sister Philip's Golden Jubilee. The St. Joseph Fund for the Performing Arts was established by the school in honor of her many years of service.
Four days later, the students and faculty gathered with area friends to bid farewell to Sister Philip as she finished her ministry in Maryland. She was lauded as "a pioneer, visionary, and role model of faith." Sister's new assignment will be to create a perpetual adoration chapel at her congregation's Aquinas College back home in Nashville.
Read more about Sister Philip's ministry in the latest edition of "Cupola," the magazine of Mount de Sales Academy.
Why the Dominicans?
"I was born in Nashville Tennessee so it was a natural to be in my own diocese. I had a choice of two congregations in the Nashville area: The Mercy Sisters (RSM) and the Dominican Sisters (OP). My father and mother and all of their families had been educated by the Mercy Sisters. When it came time for their children to be educated, my mother wanted us to be educated by the Dominican Sisters because she thought they were the best educators. When they opened a grade school in the west end of Nashville she placed most of us there. My three older brothers did not want to change schools so they remained at the Cathedral School.
When I was ready to enter at 17 years of age, I had been taught by the Dominican Sisters for 12 years, and also I loved their white habit. I did not want to spend my entire life in black. That is literally true of my thinking at age 17."
"The greatest joy is giving your life totally to God. When I entered I really didn't think of teaching or being in some form of education. All I wanted to do was consecrate my entire life to God. The teaching aspect was secondary and not really a consideration for me."
Sister Philip's advice to young people discerning their vocation:
"My advice to those trying to discern their vocation, whether it be to married, religious or single life, is to PRAY. Attend Mass daily and receive Communion, the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. Ask Him, "What do you want me to do for you?" We have to ask God what He wants and He'll show us the way.
Also, the Rosary is the other daily exercise that is so important in discerning one's vocation. The Rosary, in a certain sense, "tills" the soil (soul) and prepares it to receive the Word of God to go forth and do whatever He wants. A good time to pray five mysteries of the Rosary is while driving in their car. Jesus and Mary will point out the way."
On the joys of teaching:
"I would have to say teaching because you are basically handing on the faith no matter what you teach. Certainly, most importantly, when we actually teach the faith, but all subjects can be seen through the "Eyes of God."
"To contemplate and to give to others the fruits of our contemplation"
--Dominican motto
Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Aquinas College:
Sister Philip is back in Nashville now, working at her congregation's school of higher education, Aquinas College. The former campus Carriage House was renovated for use as the only chapel in the Diocese of Nashville offering perpetual adoration.
Corpus Christi Adoration Chapel
Bishop David R. Choby was on campus on October 22 to preside at the dedication of the Corpus Christi Adoration Chapel. Sister Philip was filled with joy as she spoke of the new chapel, noting that it opened ond the first feast day of Pope Saint John Paul II as a saint. He spoke often of deep devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
Read about this historic chapel dedication day here.
The Cardinal Newman Society highlighted this event in their Catholic Education Daily:
Read "Aquinas College 'Furthers Catholic Mission' with Dedication of New Adoration Chapel" here.
Watch a slideshow of photos from the dedication of the Corpus Christi Chapel here.
Want to pray from a distance before the Blessed Sacrament at the Corpus Christi Adoration Chapel?
Click here to join in via their live webcam.
Enjoy these photos:
Taken during Sister Philip's Golden Jubilee celebration and festivities held the weekend of June 22 at the Dominican Motherhouse in Nashville:
Sister Philip Joseph (right) with Cardinal Edwin O'Brien, Archbishop Emeritus of Baltimore and Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, and three young Dominican Sisters, all graduates of Mount de Sales Academy: (from left) Sister Anna Margaret Smith, OP, Sister Mary Caroline Ames, OP, and Sister Grace Dominic Hargadon, OP.
Sister Philip Joseph with Cardinal Edwin O'Brien;
Celebrating with Sister Philip at the dinner the night before her Jubilee Mass: Father Jerry Francik, pastor of St. Mark Church, Fallston, and Father William P. Foley, Director of Pastoral Care for Retired Priests
Sister Philip with Father Michael Roach, pastor of St. Bartholomew Church and past-President of the Mount de Sales Board of Trustees;
Sister Philip was the youngest of the nine Davis children; Seen here with her five living siblings (from left): Helen Davis Alexander, Alphonse Davis, Sister Philip, Francis Davis, Robert Davis, and Jane Davis Manning.
The three eldest siblings, Mary Jo Davis Levine, Philip Davis, and John Davis, have passed on to Eternal Life.
John Carroll Patriot legacy:
Deacon Martin J. Perry ministers at his lifelong parish of St. Mark Church in Fallston and is a graduate of The John Carroll School, as is his wife Natalie.
They passed the JC legacy onto their four children:
Amy Perry Nash, Class of 2005, and her husband Joseph Nash '04, are the proud parents of Audrey and Austin;
Laura Perry graduated in 2007;
and twin brothers, Sean and Vincent, are part of the JC Class of 2012.
In actuality, being a Patriot was always in Marty's blood. His Dad, Joseph, was the longtime Director of Guidance. Joe Perry and his wife Kathleen, Marty's Mom, raised twelve children and seven foster children, and sent most of them to John Carroll.
Hearing God's call:
Marty heard God's voice and discerned a calling to serve God and the Church as a deacon, and started his formal instruction in the Fall of 2000. He was ordained by Cardinal William Keeler on May 17, 2003.
He was grateful to be placed at his home parish of St. Mark in Fallston, where he has served since his ordination.
Deacon Perry explains, "Although permanent deacons serve at the discretion of their bishop, since I had a young family--my kids were 16,14,and 10 when I was ordained-- I requested my home parish of St. Mark, Fallston, so as to minimize disruption to my family. I was happy to find out, just a few weeks prior to ordination, that my request was granted."
On the joys of being a deacon:
"There are so many...
Walking with grieving families and aiding their understanding and acceptance of loved one's passing during wake services and funerals;
Hearing affirmation of the Holy Spirit's work as parishioners respond with grateful appreciation to a Sunday homily;
And even more so when a visit to a dying man and his family affords an opportunity for healing grace when they ask the challenging questions "Where is God in all of this?"
Preaching for the elderly residents at St. Martin's Home of the Little Sisters of the Poor--all the while realizing that their lives - lived in humble submission to God's will as they approach the end of their time on Earth - speak more eloquently than I ever could on what it means to walk with Christ....
And of course, assisting our priests at the Altar, and participating in a small way in their shared sacrifice expressed both in Sacrament and in their total gift of self for the people of God...
And in the aid and encouragement of my wife, who so humbly encourages me to say 'yes' when she knows that I am needed, and to occasionally say 'no' when more balance is needed."
Deacon Marty Perry with his wife Natalie
Deacon Perry's advice to young people discerning their vocation:
"Trust your heart and spend time before the Blessed Sacrament in simple, quiet anticipation of whispered guidance."
The joys of the married diaconate:
"Being a husband, father, grandfather, and permanent deacon has provided many challenges and many particularly joyful rewards. I have experienced the immense joys of bringing my own grandchildren into the embrace of Christ through Baptism."
Joy that knows no end: Deacon Marty Perry had just baptized his grandson, Austin Nash; This is one of Marty's all-time favorite ministry photos. We can surely see why...
"I have helped young couples better understand the Sacrament of Marriage and witness their vows. This includes young people that we have known from the time they were children through our own children.
Also, having the neighbor kids down the street affectionately refer to me around home as "Deacon Daddy."
Deacon Marty and Natalie with grandchildren Audrey and Austin at the beach
The Perry Crew: Marty and Natalie's four children and two grandchildren; two girlfriends and one boyfriend at the beach; The only one missing is son-in-law Joe who was deployed at the time with the Air Force.
Do you know someone discerning a vocation to the priesthood, religious life, or diaconate?
Pray for and with them:
Prayer to know one's vocation:
Lord, my God and my loving Father, you have made me to know you, to love you, to serve you, and thereby to find and to fulfill my deepest longings. I know that you are in all things, and that every path can lead me to you. But of them all, there is one especially by which you want me to come to you. Since I will do what you want of me, I pray you, send your Holy Spirit to me: into my mind, to show me what you want of me; into my heart, to give me the determination to do it, and to do it with all my love, with all my mind, and with all of my strength righ to the end. Jesus, I trust in you.
November 04, 2014 02:09
By Patti Murphy Dohn
Image credit
"The great and sad mistake of many people...is to imagine that those whom death has taken, leave us.
They do not leave us. They remain!
Where are they? In the darkness?
Oh, no! It is we who are in darkness.
We do not see them, but they see us.
Their eyes, radiant with glory, are fixed upon our eyes...Oh, infinite consolation!
Though invisible to us, our dead are not absent...
They are living near us, transfigured...into light, into power, into love."
--Karl Rahner, SJ (1904-1984)
With the arrival of November, we realize anew how quickly time does go by. Before we know it, the holidays will here again. Such is the cycle of life.
From the day we are born, we are on the journey Home toward our everlasting life in Heaven. We try to live our lives as people of faith and hope.
"There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.A time to give birth, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant.
--Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
November prayer intentions:
The first two days of November offer us times to pray and remember with the Solemnity of All Saints (November 1) and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls Day on November 2). And as we know, the entire month of November is a special time to focus on remembering those who have gone before us.
For some people, it is not easy to remember their loved ones without experiencing anew that overwhelming sense of grief and mourning.
Crisis ministry:
In an interview with The Catholic Review in 2012, I told then-Social Media Specialist Matt Palmer,
"It seems that crisis ministry has become my calling within a calling."
During my many years at The John Carroll School, I was often called upon to "walk" with families who were in crisis-mode and in need of pastoral care. Many members of the school community still turn to me now in my retirement when they are in need, or call and text when they become aware of another family who is in crisis.
It is always a humbling privilege to be there for families who are going through their darkest days, experiencing worry, fear, grief, sorrow, and a flood of other emotions.
Three summers ago, while I was in Florida for five weeks, three deaths occurred within JC families. It was important that I found new ways of ministering to the needs of my students and their families from across that distance. Creative uses of social media, along with phone calls, texting, and the use of Facetime and instant messaging became my lifelines with these families. Networking with our parish priests and youth ministers across the miles made this long-distance ministry work while I was out of town.
In actuality, this blog came about in 2012 as a result of this work ministering to families who were suffering. I call my blog "God is in the Clouds" as I write about life, faith, and Church history with a focus on God's presence with each one of us on our life journey.
As many of you know, I have always declared:
In good times and in bad, God is good... All the time!!
Part 1 in a series on grief and mourning:
During this coming month of November, I will share with you reflections from people of all ages and backgrounds on how they have experienced grief and healing from the loss of a loved one. Included will be advice and wisdom on what has helped and what was not so helpful.
Just as the circumstances of one's death are so different, so too are the ways that persons experience the death of a loved one. There are no rules and "normals" when it comes to grief. Each individual person must determine what is best for him or her. But it does help to hear about what others have gone through and how they learned to heal their hearts.
As those in grief have found, life goes on around us even when they are experiencing deep sadness and sorrow. It is my hope and prayer that this November series on grief and mourning can offer helpful insights for both those who have lost loved ones, as well as those who are trying to support others who are experiencing loss.
This series will include entries on the loss of:
--Babies and young children;
--Adult children;
--Siblings and dear friends;
--Loss due to suicide.
--Loss stemming from non-death circumstances.
Want to share your experiences?
If you would like to join in and offer your personal input on your experiences of grief and mourning, please email me at:
I will then share with you a series of questions for you to reflect upon before sending back your comments.
You might offer an insight or piece of advice that would help another person. That's my hope for this series.
"You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."
--St. Augustine, "Confessions"
October 30, 2014 12:02
By Patti Murphy Dohn
Timing is everything...
Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Jude, patron in cases of despair and desperation. And I just had a wonderful and spontaneous visit yesterday to a South Florida church named for this very popular saint.
The Village of Tequesta:
My husband and I took a drive north on Monday morning from Singer Island, Palm Beach, Florida to register one of our cars at the Department of Motor Vehicles, located across the county line in Hobe Sound. As we approached Martin County, we passed through the areas of Juno Beach, Jupiter, and Tequesta.
The Village of Tequesta, the northernmost municipality in South Florida, is a tiny 2.2 square mile section of land and water in Palm Beach County. According to 2013 census updates, its population is listed at just over 5800.
Tequesta's Catholics gather to worship at St. Jude Church, the most northern parish in the Diocese of Palm Beach, located at 204 U.S. Highway One. This beautiful church caught my attention as we drove by, its towering cross over the large church seen for quite a distance. Beckoning us in, and beautifully landscaped with palm trees and native flowers, my husband assured me that we would stop by on our way back from the DMV so I could check it out.
Catholicism in Tequesta:
Founded as the Jupiter Catholic Mission Church in 1957 when Tequesta was founded, the first Mass was celebrated in a local hall. Four and a half years later, the Village of Tequesta annexed fifteen acres for the building of the new Catholic church.
Built in less than seven months from the groundbreaking on May 27, 1962, the 500-seat church would be dedicated by Bishop Coleman Carroll, the Bishop of Miami, on December 16.
Bishop Carroll was appointed the first Bishop of Miami when the diocese was founded in 1958, becoming archbishop in 1968 when the diocese was elevated to archdiocese by Pope Paul VI, and serving until his death in 1977. The Diocese of Palm Beach was not established until 1984.
Adding a parish center in 1980, the parish underwent a huge renovation project in the early 1990s to enlarge the church to seat 1200 parishioners, and to add new parish offices and a rectory. Bishop Joseph Keith Symons, the second Bishop of Palm Beach (1990-1998), dedicated these new structures on the Eve of All Saints, 1993.
In August of 2003, the first inter-parochial elementary school, serving the families of St. Jude's and five other northern Palm Beach parishes, was opened. All Saints Catholic School is located in nearby Jupiter and has students in pre-school through grade 8.
St. Jude Church:
Today the church, with its beautiful towering cross, stands as a sign of welcome to those travelling up and down the main route.
So too was Tom Lehman, the parish's Facilities Manager, who greeted me while outside supervising a landscaping project, and showed me which door was unlocked for my self-guided tour.
The beautiful chapel is located at the front of the church. The chapel's congregation can look into the huge church through glass partitions directly behind the altar. It's a wonderful arrangement with the altars back to back, the main church's tabernacle visible from the chapel (as seen in the photo above), and a sense of unity from all locations.
Entering the main church, you are drawn in to the beauty of the enormous stained glass windows over the main altar and surrounding the entire worship space.
Mysteries of the Rosary and Stations of the Cross are illustrated in colorful splendor.
I love this beautiful entrance....
Such beauty!!
In the rear of the main church are prie-dieux before small altars in honor of Our Lady, St. Joseph, St. Maximilian Kolbe, along with candles for special intentions near a Divine Mercy image of Our Lord. A papal blessing from Pope Benedict XVI is displayed nearby in honor of the parish's fiftieth anniversary in 2007 on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.
The parish is very supportive of its young families, with lots of ministries available to meet their needs and two large "Family Rooms" for use during Mass.
More stained glass windows close up:
Behind the church:
Located behind the church is a beautiful, landscaped plaza with benches in the shade providing a peaceful setting for prayer or socializing. Statues and areas for meditation are arranged in this park-like setting.
In memory of the pre-born:
Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for a return to the untrue of life in our world. Amen.
"I will spend my Heaven doing good in earth.
My mission is to make God known and loved.
After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses."
--St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower
At the center of the parish plaza is an incredible statue of our Lord's crucifixion with Blessed Mother and John the Apostle gazing up at Him. It is easy to imagine the Stations of the Cross ending in this courtyard-like area.
Many blessings on this Feast of St. Jude to our new friends at St. Jude Church!!
Did you know about the beautiful basilica in Key West?
Check it out...
Want to read about another beautiful Florida church?
Check out my article on Catholicism in the Florida Keys, with a special focus on the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West.
The oldest parish in South Florida, this congregation traces its roots back to the sixteenth century when Florida was a Spanish territory, and Key West, known then as Cayo Hueso ("Island of Bones"), was under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Havana, Cuba.
This tropical church was just raised to the status of minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012.
Check out 25 of the photos I took while vacationing last year in the Keys during Easter Week.
Read more here.
October 28, 2014 01:34
By Patti Murphy Dohn
"Roads are simply no longer communication routes; they have become places where we spend a great part of our lives." --Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road
Have you ever been the victim of road rage? Have you caused road rage?
Does heavy traffic become an occasion of bad language?
Do you shake your head when witnessing the bad driving habits of motorists who share the road with you?
"We know that as a consequence of transgressions and negligence, 1.2 million people die each year on the roads... That's a sad reality, and at the same time, a great challenge for society and the church."
--Cardinal Renato Martino, Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People
Car accidents have long been the leading cause of death among young people. Every time we turn on the news we hear of yet another person who lost their life in a car accident. Even Pope Francis's family has been in mourning due to tragedy on the road. The wife and two young children of his nephew were killed in a crash this August in Argentina.
Did you know that the Vatican published "Guidelines for the Pastoral Care of the Road" in 2007?
Issued by the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, the 59-page document urges prayer for safe traveling, including the recitation of the rosary, and provides a section modeled off the biblical Ten Commandments.
The "Drivers' Ten Commandments:"
1. You shall not kill.
2. The road shall be for you a means of communion between people and not of mortal harm.
3. Courtesy, uprightness and prudence will help you deal with unforeseen events.
4. Be charitable and help your neighbor in need, especially victims of accidents.
5. Cars shall not be for you an expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin.
6. Charitably convince the young and not so young not to drive when they are not in a fitting condition to do so.
7. Support the families of accident victims.
8. Bring guilty motorists and their victims together, at the appropriate time, so that they can undergo the freedom of forgiveness.
9. On the road, protect those who are more vulnerable.
10. Behave responsibly in relation to others.
Safety first:
Perhaps reading over this set of "Ten Commandments" with our families will provide opportunities for good discussion, as well as reflection on personal practices and attitudes. May these opportunities lead to better habits on the road and peace of mind while traveling.
October 23, 2014 09:26
By Patti Murphy Dohn
"When we look to this great Pope, this courageous Christian, this tireless apostle, we cannot but say in the sight of God a word as simple as it is heartfelt and important: thanks! Thank you, our dear and beloved Pope Paul VI! Thank you for your humble and prophetic witness of love for Christ and his Church!"
--from the October 19, 2014 homily of Pope Francis at the Closing Mass of the Extraordinary Synod on the Family and the Beatification of Pope Paul VI
Pope Paul VI canonized saints on twenty-one occasions between 1964 and 1977; Included were:
**St. Julie Billiart (1751-1816), the founder of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur;
**St. Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton, (1774 - 1821), the first native-born American saint who established the first Catholic school in the U.S., as well as the Sisters of Charity; and
**St. John Nepomucene Neumann, C.Ss.R. (1811 – 1860), Redemptorist and fourth Bishop of Philadelphia, who became the first American bishop to be canonized.
My first canonization:
The first Vatican ceremony that I distinctly remember watching was the canonization of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774–1821) held on September 14, 1975. Pope Paul VI presided on the telecast broadcasted on our twelve-inch black and white kitchen television. The English-language commentator, pre-Archbishop Foley, translated quietly in the background. I was especially interested since Mother Seton was the first American-born Catholic saint, and she worked so closely with our nation's first bishop, John Carroll, in creating the first Catholic school system.
Yesterday that same presiding pontiff was beatified by Pope Francis at the closing Mass for the 2014 Extraordinary Synod on the Family, following a certified Vatican miracle attributed to his intercession. A California boy, whom doctors predicted would be born with serious birth defects, was born healthy and is now a teenager. His identity has been kept confidential due to his parents' request. Canonization to sainthood requires a second certified miracle.
This ceremony marked the third pope from the twentieth century that the Holy Father has elevated in the past six months. Pope Francis canonized Pope St. John Paul II and Pope St. John XXIII on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 20, 2014.
Notably, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was in attendance for both occasions.
Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Closing Mass of the Extraordinary Synod on the Family and the Beatification of Pope Paul VI: (Photo: Gregorio Borgia/Associated Press)
"In his personal journal, the great helmsman of the Council wrote, at the conclusion of its final session: "Perhaps the Lord has called me and preserved me for this service not because I am particularly fit for it, or so that I can govern and rescue the Church from her present difficulties, but so that I can suffer something for the Church, and in that way it will be clear that he, and no other, is her guide and saviour" (P. Macchi, Paolo VI nella sua parola, Brescia, 2001, pp. 120-121). In this humility the grandeur of Blessed Paul VI shines forth: before the advent of a secularized and hostile society, he could hold fast, with farsightedness and wisdom – and at times alone – to the helm of the barque of Peter, while never losing his joy and his trust in the Lord."
"Paul VI truly "rendered to God what is God's" by devoting his whole life to the "sacred, solemn and grave task of continuing in history and extending on earth the mission of Christ" (Homily for the Rite of Coronation: Insegnamenti I, (1963), 26), loving the Church and leading her so that she might be "a loving mother of the whole human family and at the same time the minister of its salvation" (Encyclical Letter Ecclesiam Suam, Prologue)."
--Homily of Pope Francis at Closing Mass of the Extraordinary Synod on the Family and Beatification of Pope Paul VI on October 19, 2014
Quick facts on Pope Paul VI:
Born Giovanni Battista Montini on September 26, 1879 in northern Italy, the future Pope Paul VI was ordained to the priesthood in 1920. He became Archbishop of Milan in 1954 and was elected to the pontificate on June 21, 1963.
He reconvened and presided over the last three sessions of the Second Vatican Council (1963-1965) and led the implementation of the conciliar reforms. He is also remembered as an advocate for building world peace, a champion for social justice issues, and for advancing ecumenical relationships.
Pope Paul VI went Home to our Lord at age 80 on August 6, 1978 while at Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence. His feast day has been observed annually on his birthday, September 26.
Pope Paul VI (Pontificate: 1963-1978)
Shown after his June 21, 1963 election, the former Cardinal Montini chose his pontifical name to reflect his apostolic focus on spreading the Gospel throughout the world. (AP Photo/Luigi Felici)
News footage in Italian from the 1963 conclave and election of Pope Paul VI:
Alfredo Cardinal Ottaviani, Proto-Deacon and Secretary of the Holy Office, placed the tiara crown on the head of Pope Paul VI during the June 30, 1963 coronation ceremony, held nine days after his election, at St. Peter's Square. (AP Photo/Luigi Felici)
Weighing ten pounds, the tiara was last worn by Paul VI on November 13, 1963, who laid it on the altar of St. Peter's Basilica following Mass with the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council "in response to the many grave words spoken in this Ecumenical Council on the misery and hunger in the modern world."
Cardinal Francis Spellman, Archbishop of New York, requested that the tiara be sent to the U.S. Catholic Church, which Pope Paul VI granted in 1968 in recognition of the generosity of the American people to the hungry and dispossessed peoples of the world. It has been on permanent display in the Crypt Chapel of the The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception since February 6, 1968. The National Shrine contributes to the Holy Father's fund for the poor each year.
Paul VI after his coronation on June 30, 1963.
The Pilgrim Pope:
When Pope Paul VI took the very first trip in an aircraft for a pontiff, longtime Vatican photographer Arturo Mari was with him.
Paul journeyed to Jordan and Israel from January 4 - 6, 1964, for the first papal pilgrimage to the Holy Land, also marking the first time that a pontiff had left Italy in more than a century.
Later travel included:
**Lebanon and India in December 1964,
**the United Nations and New York in October 1965,
**the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugual in May 1967,
**Turkey in July 1967,
**Colombia and Bermuda in August 1968,
**Switzerland in June 1969,
**Uganda in July-August 1969,
**Iran, Pakistan, the Philippines, Samoan Islands, Australia, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka in November-December 1970.
Ending nearly 1000 years of negative relations between Catholics and Orthodox Christians, Pope Paul VI met with Orthodox leader, Patriarch Athenagoras I of Constantinople, on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. (AP file photo)
Pope Paul VI with Patriarch Athenagoras I of Constantinople in Jerusalem:
Their historic meeting took place on Jan. 8, 1964, on the Mount of Olives in a part of Jerusalem that was controlled by Jordan at the time, marking the first meeting since the East-West Schism of 1054.
Pope Paul VI travels through the crowd estimated at 200,000 on a portable throne in St. Peter's Square on March 29, 1964.
(AP Photo/Jim Pringle)
Pope Paul VI met with President Lyndon B. Johnson before his address at the United Nations headquarters. (AP file photo)
He met with four U.S. presidents during his 15-year pontificate: John F. Kennedy (1963), Lyndon Johnson (1965, 1967), Richard Nixon (1969, 1970), and Gerald Ford (1975).
"No more war, never again war. Peace, it is peace that must guide the destinies of people and of all mankind."
--Pope Paul VI addressing the United Nations, October 4, 1965 (CNS photo/Yutaka Nagata)
Pope Paul VI celebrated the first pontifical Mass on U.S. soil at the Yankee Stadium on October 4, 1965.
Pope Paul VI closing the final session of the Second Vatican Council on December 7, 1965. (AP file photo)
Jacqueline Kennedy, widow of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, meets with Pope Paul VI on January 31, 1966 at the Vatican.
"When we fight poverty and oppose the unfair conditions of the present, we are not just promoting human well being; we are also furthering man's spiritual and moral development, and hence we are benefiting the whole human race." --Pope Paul VI
Caritas International, founded in 1954, became one of the largest aid and development agencies in the world:
Here Pope Paul VI blesses aid for floods in 1966 in Italy.Photo: Caritas International
"For peace is not simply the absence of warfare, based on a precarious balance of power; it is fashioned by efforts directed day after day toward the establishment of the ordered universe willed by God, with a more perfect form of justice among men."
--Pope Paul VI
Pope Paul VI met at Fatima with last surviving visionary, Sister Lucy, on May 13, 1967, the fiftieth anniversary of the apparitions at Fatima. She offered the Holy Father a pall that she had made.
Pope Paul VI bestows the ring on the newly-created Cardinal Karol Wojtyla on June 26, 1967. (Photo: Sygma-Corbis)
Island paradise:
Blessed Pope Paul VI had a brief three-hour layover at the Hamilton, Bermuda airport on Saturday, August 24, 1968. He was on his way home to the Vatican after attending the 39th International Eucharistic Congress in Bogotá, Columbia.
"How strange it would have seemed until recently that the Successor of St. Peter would find sufficient a few hours to cross broad continents and mighty seas, and visit distant lands whose very existence was unknown to the first Pope! Yet such journeys are but the continuation into this century of the apostolic wanderings of the first who held the high office of representing Christ for men of all continents and races.
...We are well pleased that Our return journey from the Eucharistic Congress at Bogotá permits Us to visit, though it be for a few brief moments only, these islands so justly famed for their beauty, and so find Ourself among you and greet you all.
May God bless all of you who have come to meet Us. May He bless your homes and all whom you hold dear. And before We leave these islands of the Atlantic, so distant on the map, yet so close to Our heart, We lovingly impart Our special blessing to you and to your spiritual and temporal leaders, praying that God may abundantly bestow on Bermuda the blessings of true peace and prosperity."
--Excerpt from the brief, seven-sentence address of Pope Paul VI to the people of Bermuda at the Hamilton Airport
Pope Paul VI in Bermuda, with Lord Martonmere, Governor General of Bermuda (left), and the Bishop of Bermuda Bernard J. Murphy (right) (Photo: Bermuda Online)
Assassination attempt:
Immediately after Pope Paul VI arrived in the Philippines, disembarked and kissed the ground in Manila on November 27, 1970, the Holy Father was enveloped by the crowd who came to greet him. Almost immediately a man dressed in cassock as a priest, with a crucifix in one hand, approached and stabbed the pope twice in the chest with a dagger. The Holy Father's private secretary, Msgr. Pasquale Macci (C), pushed away the assailant (right), identified as 35-year old Benjamin Mendoza y Amor. Originally from La Paz, Bolivia, Mendoza was a painter living the Philippines.
Pope Paul VI, who is seen partially at the left, was accompanied by Philippine President, Ferdinand Marcos, of whom Mendoza referred, "But when I pulled out the knife President Marcos stopped me. I was amazed when he hit me with his hand. It was a karate blow and terribly painful. The President was so strong, so powerful. I couldn't believe the pain." (UPI Photo/Files)
This averted tragedy provided the relic, part of his blood stained vest, which was presented and placed on display in its reliquary for yesterday's beatification.
Pope Paul VI with Patriarch Albino Luciani, the future Pope John Paul I, during his March, 1972 pastoral visit to Venice. (Photo: CNS/ Giancarlo Giuliani)
It has been written that the Holy Father "publicly placed his red stole around Luciani's shoulders, a gesture many interpreted as a sign that Paul wanted the patriarch of Venice to be his successor. The next year, Paul named Luciani to the College of Cardinals."
Luciani would serve as Patriarch of Venice from 1969 until his election as the next pontiff in 1978.
The historic 80-minute meeting of Pope Paul VI with Golda Meir at the Vatican, January 15, 1973 was the first audience granted to an Israeli Prime Minister.
(Photo: Archives Department of the UWM Libraries)
Pope Paul VI elevated Patriarch Albino Luciani to the College of Cardinals at the March 5, 1973 consistory. (Photo: Catholic Voice)
An undated photo of Pope Paul VI (263rd pope) with Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (future 266th pope) --(CNS file photo)
"Gaudete in Domino:"
May 9, 1975 apostolic exhortation of Pope Paul VI on Christian joy:
"But how can we ignore the additional fact that joy is always imperfect, fragile and threatened? By a strange paradox, the consciousness of that which, beyond all passing pleasure, would constitute true happiness, also includes the certainty that there is no perfect happiness. The experience of finiteness, felt by each generation in its turn, obliges one to acknowledge and to plumb the immense gap that always exists between reality and the desire for the infinite."
October 20, 2014 11:58
By Patti Murphy Dohn


text:
ColdFusion makes it very easy to use Hibernate out-of-box. This presentation takes you through the more complex features in the CF9 Hibernate integration. This session covers advanced topics in CF9 Hibernate implementation, including event handling, advanced object mapping, Hibernate session management, caching, creating a base persistent object, and more.
Bob Silverberg has been developing web applications with ColdFusion for ten years. Whether you're an object oriented developer or not, you can still use CF9 ORM as long as you know what an object is, and a little bit of cfcs. If you already know how to use Hibernate, this video will show you how to use its advanced features with CF9.
For an introduction to using Hibernate with CF9, see Getting Started with CF9 Hibernate (ORM) Integration.
Bob, along with Mark Mandel, the author of Transfer ORM, will be delivering a comprehensive two-day hands-on workshop called Developing Applications with ColdFusion 9 Object Relational Mapping on April 20-21, 2010 in Minneapolis, MN.
The workshop will cover what you need to know to get up and running using ColdFusion 9's ORM features in your next project. Through interactive learning and hands-on labs, we'll start with the basics, continuing through building two complete working applications. Along the way we'll discuss best practices and potential pitfalls of this powerful new technology. The majority of the class will be spent with you writing code on your own workstation, so not only will you absorb more through "learning by doing", but you'll also go home with plenty of working code examples that you can bring into your future projects. Click here for more details.