Why Catholics Pray the Rosary
Today is October 7, Feast of the Holy Rosary, a fitting day to think about this devotion. Where did the Rosary come from? It’s not in the Bible. St. Paul tells us to sing hymns and offer prayers for leaders, but says nothing about praying these prayer beads. According to a legend, the Rosary began […]
Retreat in Africa
Originally I was invited to give an eight-day preached retreat to our Sisters in Africa. However, my visit lengthened so I could also speak to different groups: our Associates, novices, and temporary professed Sisters. For the retreat I chose the theme Pillars of Religious Life. Each day I presented two talks on a topic fundamental […]
African Safari
One day Sisters Mary Christine and Teopista took me on a safari in Nairobi National Park. This park is the only national park within a city. As we drove along the dusty roads though flat grasslands, the city skyline was visible in the background. Vincent, our driver, helped us spot animals and informed us about […]
SNDs in Africa
During the three weeks I was in Africa, I became acquainted with our Sisters in Kenya and Tanzania. They are grateful to the Sisters from other countries who established their delegation. A poster of those missionaries seen above is displayed in their convents and schools. Among them is Sister Annete Adams from Chardon, who served […]
African Meals
I’m often asked how the food was in Africa. It was very palatable, not spicy at all. Because the Sisters operate farms where they grow their own crops, the food is fresh and free from chemicals. They also raise their own animals. Breakfast was eggs, cheese, pancakes, yogurt, sausage, peanut butter on bread. Chapati (chewy, […]
African Masses
Africans celebrate the Eucharist with enthusiasm. Music is accompanied by instruments, clapping, whistles, and whoops. Although our convent Masses in Africa were normal length, our Sunday Mass at humongous St. Veronica Church lasted two hours because of the many hymns the choir sang and the processions. (At the offertory, people brought up things for the […]
Introduction to Visit to Africa
Since I arrived home from three weeks in Eastern Africa, many have asked me about my visit to our Notre Dame Sisters there. In the next several blog posts, I will present highlights and details of my time. For now, here is some basic information: How long did it take to get there? 2 ½ […]
Everyday Ways to Boost Mental and Emotional Wellness
Providentially, Scott Sanders offered to provide a guest blog post to cover one of the weeks I will be in Africa. I hope you find it helpful. Busy parents, parish volunteers, and professionals carrying family responsibilities often work hard to live their faith while running low on emotional bandwidth. The tension is real. Prayer and […]
Lessons from Trees
Trees have been on my mind, especially as I take my daily walk along our forest, hoping the black bear isn’t lurking there! I thought of writing a post about trees and then discovered I had written one years ago. So here it is again slightly adapted. I said to the almond tree, “Sister, speak […]
Advice for Those Grieving Lost Spouses
During August I will be with the Sisters of Notre Dame in Africa. So, instead of a post from me this week, here is a guest post written by Patricia Sarmiento. I hope if you are grieving your marriage partner you personally find these words helpful. Maybe you can refer it to someone else who […]