random thoughts

*On Sunday Rocky and I visited the Cathedral of Mary our Queen in Baltimore. The last time we visited we were horrified. This time was better. Archbishops O’Brien and now Lori must have tightened things up. The Blessed Sacrament chapel was not dusty and the lights were on. We saw the new archbishop and Rocky spoke to him briefly while I wandered off to look at the chapels. I’m not sure what style the artwork and stained glass are; art deco revival perhaps but it was handsome. I prefer the basilica downtown or St. Alphonsus but I’m glad we went. Later we visited the Divine Mercy shrine. Poor old Father was desperately trying to get out of the church and back to the rectory. I got out of his way,asked him no dumb tourist questions and let him shuffle on. Later we ate at Roccos in Little Italy. I only have one word ---well two for Roccos: don’t go. Nuff said there.

 

*Father Rutler has the amazing story of a little known, saintly man here.

*This young woman’s post on her love of her chapel veil got 63 comments. That’s pretty interesting to me. I started collecting veils years ago and then one day I decided that if I meant what I was saying about honoring God, and giving Him homage that I would never give to any living person it was time to use my veils. Some women at church glared at me. I shrugged my shoulders because I don’t go to church looking for socializing anyway. Today, nobody glares and several women--young and old-- wear mantillas or snoods themselves. It has nothing to do with me of course, I think there is a hunger for rediscovering Catholic tradition.

*In your charity, please pray for these Syrian nuns.   


 

*I was not surprised by the whole business with the man who is the voice of Elmo from Sesame Street being accused of debauching a minor. Nor am I surprised that the accuser has recanted. The media has been very restrained concerning this story---that I find peculiar.




* The National Gallery in London, England has a foul insult to Our Lady on display.

Atonement for Neglecting to Honor Mary

Lord, forgive all reviling of Mary's name!
We beseech Thee, hear us!
Lord, forgive all contempt of her Immaculate Conception!
We beseech Thee, hear us!
Lord, forgive all coldness in the honoring of Mary!
We beseech Thee, hear us!
Lord, forgive all contempt of Mary's pictures! We beseech Thee, hear us!
Lord, forgive all neglect of the Holy Rosary!
We beseech Thee, hear us!
Lord, forgive all indifference to Mary's Motherly love!