Holy Father on Christmas

From today's general audience with Pope Benedict XVI, we receive a beautiful insight into Christmas. This information comes from the VIS, Vatican Information services and the article can be found here online. Come, Lord Jesus.

THE CHILD JESUS MAKES THE LOVE OF GOD MANIFEST VATICAN CITY, 23 DEC 2009 (VIS) - In his general audience, celebrated this morning in the Paul VI Hall, the Pope focused his remarks on the subject of Christmas. At the beginning of his catechesis the Holy Father explained that "the Church's liturgical year did not initially develop on the basis of Christ's birth but on that of faith in His resurrection. Hence, the most ancient feast of Christianity is not Christmas but Easter. The resurrection of Christ is what founded the Christian faith, underpinned the announcement of the Gospel and brought the Church into being".

"The first person to make the clear affirmation that Jesus was born on 25 December was Hippolytus of Rome in his commentary on the Book of Daniel, written around the year 204", said the Pope.

"In the Christian world, the feast of Christmas assumed a distinct form in the fourth century when it took the place of the Roman feast of the 'Sol invictus', the sun unconquered. This highlighted the fact that the birth of Christ is the victory of the true light over the darkness of evil and sin. Yet the particular and intense spiritual atmosphere that now surrounds Christmas developed during the Middle Ages, thanks to St. Francis of Assisi who was profoundly enamoured of Jesus the man, of the God-with-us".

"This particular devotion to the mystery of the Incarnation was the origin of the famous Christmas celebration in Greccio. ... St. Francis with his nativity scene highlighted the defenceless love, humility and goodness of God, Who in the Incarnation of the Word shows Himself to mankind in order to teach them a new way to live and love".

The Pope then went on to recall the fact that the first biographer of St. Francis, Thomas of Celano, recounted how, "on that Christmas night, Francis was granted the grace of a marvellous vision. He saw, lying immobile in the manger, a small child Who was reawakened from sleep by the proximity of Francis himself".

"Thanks to St. Francis, Christian people are able to understand that at Christmas God truly became the 'Emmanuel', the God-with-us, from Whom no barrier or distance separates us. In that Child, God became so close to each of us ... that we can establish an intimate rapport of profound affection with Him, just as we do with a newborn child.

"In that Child", the Holy Father added, "God-Love becomes manifest: God comes unarmed and powerless, because He does not intend to conquer, so to say, from the outside; rather, He intends to be accepted by man in freedom. God becomes a defenceless child to overcome man's pride, violence and thirst for possession. In Jesus, God assumed this poor and disarming condition in order to triumph over us with love and lead us to our true identity".

"His being a Child likewise indicates to us that we can meet God and enjoy His presence", the Pope concluded. "People who have not understood the mystery of Christmas have not understood the decisive element of Christian existence: that those who do not accept Jesus with the heart of a child cannot enter the Kingdom of heaven. This is what St. Francis wished to tell the Christian world of his time and of all times, even unto today".AG/CHRISTMAS/... VIS 091223 (560)

Wrapping up December '09

I would like to send out a warm conrats to newly ordained Deacon Lucas Rossi. Yesterday, the Ordination Mass was beautiful and filled with joy. Bishop Jugis commented during his homily how in the second reading, Deacon Phillip was told by the angel to "go south." Phillip obeyed and ended up assisting a traveling Ethiopian eunuch in understanding a scroll of Isaiah. Then in the zeal of receiving the Truth, the eunuch exclaimed, "See , here is water! what is to prevent my being baptized?" (Acts 8:36). Lucas also obeyed the Lord's will in coming from the Diocese of Peoria in Illinois to Charlotte. As a Deacon, his role will be to proclaim the Word of the Lord, assist with Baptisms, Marriages, funerals, and public prayer, and assist in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Lucas brings a wonderful gift of Joy to the Diocese of Charlotte and to his ministry. As a transitional Deacon, Lucas may be ordained into the priesthood as early as this summer, so let's be sure to continue to keep him in our prayers. By the way, after the Mass, Lucas commented that he will be receiving instruction in how to offer the MEF. Take time to pray for Lucas, the Deacons of the Diocese of Charlotte, those in training to be Deacons, all of our Priests, and our seminarians. God is good.

Please remember that the next training session will be next Tuesday December 29th from 4:15 to 5:45 pm.

I have completed the 2-server training cards and will be distributing them out at the next two meetings.

The next Missa Cantata will be in March. Fr. Reid and Terese Rowe are still finalizing which date will be utilized, the Feast of St. Joseph or the Annunciation.

For those who are interested I'm posting a link to the 2010 Mass Calendar also known as the Liturgical Ordo. This Ordo is for the Old Rite (MEF) calendar and does not always match up with the Novus Ordo Calendar.

Come, Lord Jesus!

Finally a new post!

Practice is a go for today, December 14th, 2009. There's a new training schedule that's out. Please see the link on the sidebar. Please note the changes and I really tried to put it out with any mistakes this time so keep me honest and let me know if I messed up.

I've been working on the Mass Schedule for the rest of December and January and will have it out soon. Please comment if there are dates you can't serve.

The dedication on December 5th went very well! Griffin Walsh and Thomas Mathis served and did a great job. Will Borin helped make a replica of the completed Church that was put on display in the gym for the ceremony.

Great to see you folks helping out. See everyone in a few hours.

Fruit of Homework II

In addition to the previously posted essays, I would like to add some quotes from the other essays that add depth to the purpose of the assignment.

"One should stir within himself a desire to know and to be aware of all that is going on (at) the Altar...Most importantly, one must observe the silence and reverence of the Mass, and the great Mystery about to take place." J. Yellico

"Also, you may find it interesting to discover how many of the prayers had changed slightly in translation. Knowing the original prayers can deepen your understanding of where the prayers originated, as well as how they were meant to be said." D. Rabideau

"A good way to help you to participate would be to be like Jesus." N. Simms

"The MEF (is) not meant to be a burden for people. The Latin spoke throughout the Mass may confuse some greatly, and the unfamiliarity of the dignified rubrics may turn some away from the Extraordinary form - at first. However, if one sticks with it, the MEF (granted me) a great amount of incresaed appreciation, devotion, and reverence for the Sacrifice of our Lord." J. Bruck

"A second way (to fully participate) would be to spend time preparing oneself for the Mass, either in prayer or in meditative silence." B. Ostendorf.

The Fruit of Homework

Back in August, the servers were asked to write a 200 word essay.

"The essay should explain how you would instruct someone in ways to participate in the MEF. Write the essay for a fellow Catholic who may have been to one MEF and walked away unsure of how to act or participate in the Mass."

Below are two essays from the group that I believed best fulfilled this assignment:

The Latin Mass
Griffin Walsh

The Mass of the Ordinary Form and Extraordinary Form are the same. The amazing miracle happens, The Consecration (occurs) through the acts of the priest. The Mass of the Extraordinary Form may be difficult for people to go to because they think they need to know Latin to participate. It is not difficult to participate because the priest and acolytes speak all the prayers and words, but the congregation stays silent. This silence gives (me) more time to adore Christ then the other form of the Mass. Knowing when to stand, kneel, or sit you just follow the servers and the priest, but also people who attend the mass regularly will show you what to do.

Both Masses are different in many ways. As you will see the altar is set in different ways. The altar is set so the priest's back is facing the congregation. There is a crucifix and two candles on the altar behind prayer cards. The credence table is set to the right of the altar. You may see the priest wearing a hat at the beginning and ending of the mass, this hat is called a (biretta). Another big difference is the silence, but it is one of the best parts in the mass.

From being silent to all the differences, the Latin Mass will help you appreciate the ordinary form better than you ever have before.

MEF Participation
Thomas Mathis

The Mass in the Extraordinary Form can be very confusing for new attendants. Many are lost in the Latin or have trouble with the responses. For some it may just be the new set up at the altar. In this form of mass there are two key elements for participation, confidence in your abilities and being well studied. The second element is of importance because you have the knowledge of when things are going to happen, what they are, and what they mean. Secondly, you will be able to identify the parts of the mass where you need to respond. Confidence is another must. This will help you fully participate without you having second thoughts in your responses. I highly recommend you buying a 1962 missal. This tool gives you English translations and printed copies of the Latin that is being said during the mass. Lastly, there is a red book that St. Anne's offers during mass that can also be used as an aid to people who struggle with the Latin. I hope this has been a helpful guide in participating in the Mass in the Extraordinary Form.

Hero for Life Scholarship

H/T to Danielle Mathis for providing this information: "Hero for Life Award will grant a $2000.00 educational scholarship to the winning applicant whose service project best champions the unborn and/or respect for human life."

Click here for the official information page. http://www.rati.org/content/NewsEvents/HeroforLifeScholarship/tabid/80/Default.aspx

This is an excellent opportunity for our servers for many reasons. If you have ever thought about setting a goal to help save human lives or if you have been a "life-saver" by an means, please consider following up with this scholarship.

Photo Credit: Lunar Costic

Schedule Updates for November

Please check the blog links for updates to the Mass Schedule and Training Schedule. Please feel free to comment, email, or call with concerns or questions. I'm hoping that the Sanctuary will be somewhat completed on Monday. We will have training come rain or shine.

Thanks to everyone for their cooperation with the construction and the unforseen cancellations of training sessions.

Training Canceled Today (Friday October 23rd)

I'm back from the other side of the country, and our trip went well. Teresa did not seem to be bothered much with the flying except for not having a place to lay down when she wanted to take a nap.

Looking at everything that needs to be accomplished for our MEF servers, it's more prudent to cancel training today than to have it.

Please leave a comment, email, or call me to confirm that you have received this information. Please call or email other parents to ensure that everyone has this information.

Missa Cantata Officially Canceled

Greetings from Spokane, WA! So, I've been emailing with Fr. Reid back and forth for the last few days. Yesterday evening, Fr. Reid called the ball and canceled the Missa Cantata on the 24th. The major rationale for the cancellation was the delay in getting the marble installed. Apparently there won't be a guarantee that the entire Sanctuary will be available, and while rubrics allow for flexibility in a Novus Ordo, there's specific requirements for a MEF where the entire Sanctuary needs to be accessible.

Fr. Reid has expressed deep regret in this decision, but he feels it's the most appropriate given the circumstances. We must trust in the reign of our Lord Jesus Christ and look forward to the next Missa Cantata which has yet to be rescheduled.

This news, while disappointing, is actually good news for a number of reasons:

1. We'll be able to train in a completed Sanctuary for the Low Mass and a future Missa Cantata without guess-work on how things might turn out.
2. We'll be able to schedule training sessions and rehearsals in advance, avoiding the confusion of last minute scheduling based on the availability of the Sanctuary and Fr. Reid.
3. We won't be rushing to get everything in order the day before the Missa Cantata.
4. The completed Sanctuary will truly provide the appropriate setting for the TLM with the completed altar, ambo, and altar rail.

I have to take a moment and thank the servers and their families for all of their work for the past few weeks. It was intense and short of one more training session to see how the Sanctuary would look and polish off some details, it was going to be a great Missa Cantata.

We will still have the training on Friday October 23rd from 4:15 to 5:45 pm as previously scheduled but will cancel the training on Monday October 26th.

Please note that while this blog will send posts out via emails, it is important to check the blog because emails can be deleted or overlooked and pertinent information may be missed. Posts will always be accessible on the blog.

New schedules will be out hopefully in the next few days. Please feel free to call or email me tomorrow.

Confirmation for tonight

I passed by St. Ann's and talked with the construction crew. The marble installation begins tomorrow! We might have some equipment to work around but we'll be okay. See everyone tonight at 6:15 pm.

Monday October 12th Rehearsal

Training is on for tonight. I'm heading over to 12:10 Mass and I'll run by St. Ann's to verify but even if the Sanctuary is not accessible due to the marble installation, we'll find a way to work with the Schola and with Fr. Reid if he's there.

Check back.

3 sessions left to go...

Great training session today. Even with construction still going on, we did well. Please note that our rehearsal with the Schola and possibly Fr. Reid will be in one week on October 12th from 6:15 to 8:00 pm. I will make the final decisions on positions this Friday (4:15 to 5:45 pm) at the end of training that day. I will be testing the four possible Ac's first thing on Friday and I'll also be testing for Tb #1 and Tb#2. The group present will vote on the top 2 Ac's and top 3 Tb's. I get to choose from there.

Current thoughts after todays training:
Th: Joseph Mack
Ac's: Brady O., David R., Ben B., Joseph B.
Bb: Luke Bruck or Griffin Walsh
Tb's: JP Mack, Sam Dehority, Joseph Yellico, Griffin Walsh, and whoever isn't an Ac.
Cb: Chase M, Nate S., or David R.

I need to thank Sam Dehority for being willing to serve at the last minute this past Saturday and step up as Ac1. Fr. Reid said things went well. I appreciate that kind of teamwork in our ministry.

Study hard...pray hard.

Photo credit: John Stephen Dwyer

Tighten up

It's time to buckle down. We have four training sessions left before the Missa Cantata, and three of them will happen over the next ten days. Due to the number of servers missing practices, (beyond their control), I'm waiting to see what happens for the Ac's and Tb's. Moreover, with the flu running around, I'm expecting for some last minute sickness. I'm hoping for full health going into the end of the month.

Here's my current thoughts on positions:
Thurifer: Joseph M. (Brady O. as alt)
Ac's: Brady O., David R., Ben B., Joseph B.
Bb: Luke Bruck
Tb's: JP M., Joseph Y, Griffin W., Nate S., and whoever isn't an Ac.
Cb: Chase M. (Corey A. as sub)

Please note that I will be gone from Oct 13th - Oct 20th and then working the 21st and 22nd. We'll have a practice on Friday October 23rd to finalize things so please don't miss that session. I can be reached, but we won't be having training during this time. This means that for this Missa Cantata, servers are going to need to practice at home a lot for their position and alternate positions.

If anyone can serve tomorrow night (Saturday Oct 3rd) at 6:30 pm with Thomas Mathis please let me know. I'll be working, but I'll get my messages regularly. Stay tuned.

Eucharistic Congress was Great!

It was good to see some of the servers and their families at the Congress this year. Awesome job to the Brucks in their role as servers for the Congress.

Witnessing the Blessed Sacrament being exposed for the city to see always renders my heart open to the glory of the Lord. Adoration, prayer, and the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist were plentiful all day Saturday and provided many opportunities to experience Christ, which the Holy Father, among others, recommends on a routine basis.

In the presence of numerous priests who call Him down from Heaven, seminarians studying to be priests, and the faithful of the Diocese, I found great consolation. (We still need more priests and seminarians so keep praying for them.) To experience the witness of our faith extending beyond the walls of our Charlotte parishes, opens my heart to the Catholics spread across the country and the world. The Congress helps make it real for me.

Friendships were renewed from across the Diocese with many traveling far to be a part of the Congress. It was good to see Lucas Rossi again. Many folks across the Diocese are looking forward to the Missa Cantata coming up.

St. Ann's Schola sang very well, and it will be another awesome Missa Cantata with their talents put to good use ministering for the Lord under the direction of Terese Rowe.

Channel 14 News did a small piece and that coverage can be viewed here.

Lastly, the entire hall seemed filled with people of all ages and from all cultures for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Isn't heaven going to be something like that? Tons of people loving God, worshipping Him, uniting with Him. It was good to be there and it was good to witness many from the across Diocese coming together to work for the Lord. It's part of what our group of servers from different parishes is about.

New Sanctuary is up and running!

Tonight we'll have the first MEF in the new Sanctuary. There's going to be a lot of guess work as to where items will be and how we will run the MEF, but it will all work out and glorify the Lord.

Now that we're finally in the new Sanctuary, I've been able to finalize the Mass and training schedules for October. Please visit the links to the side and get the dates in your calendars. Please note that there's a chunk of October where there will not be training as I'll be in Spokane, WA for a family wedding. Therefore there's a number of training sessions close together for the servers to get used to the Low Mass in the new Sanctuary and to prep for the Missa Cantata.

This week there will not be practice. It is my hope that everyone and their families can attend the Eucharistic Congress this weekend. For servers, it's a great opporunity to witness the Diocese worshipping and adoring the Lord in the Eucharist. Moreover, a Norvus Ordo Pontifical Mass is always worth witnessing. Before the Mass on Saturday, St. Ann's Schola which serves at the Missa Cantata, will sing at the Eucharistic Congress. Please support those who will be supporting us.

Photo Credit: Lauren Rupar

1st fall schedule edit

Thanks to Marla Walsh for catching that training session I mistakenly put on the 25th of September. As if I would take anyone away from the Eucharistic Congress! I moved it, so we'll see what happens.

One brick at a time...

Update: Tim Mack made it through surgery early this morning! He's recovering but still has some ground to make up. Thanks to Theresa Ostendorf for the updates.
Please also keep Thomas Mathis in your prayers as this past week he also under went surgery. He's recovering as well and will provide information as he can.

************On a personal note, I'd like to make sure that the rest of the servers take care of themselves and their families as we've had a breakout of surgeries. I will continue to pray for you all...especially considering that we have a Missa Cantata coming up. :)********************

I've updated the training and Mass schedule for this month. Please note the change from some Mondays. In order to be off later, I had to make some concessions. I am going to strongly encourage attendance as we'll be training for the new Sanctuary and the Missa Canata.

This Friday, we'll be training and helping out with the move into the new Church. PLEASE be available Saturday to help move items over as we'll be doing the first MEF Low Mass on Saturday at 6:30 pm. We will need your help, please. (You'll also be the first to see how the new Church will look.)

I've also completed the master server sheet for the Missa Cantata which answers most of the questions for the Missa Canata in the new Sanctuary. Individual server position sheets will be available shortly.

Please stay tuned and keep praying for those who are recovering.

Training cancelled for today...Labor Day

Due to any number of reasons we have to cancel training today. Schedules and info to be up tomorrow!

Please leave a comment, or call, or email to confirm that you know about today's cancellation.

Thanks!!!

We need prayers...

I recently received news that Tim Mack, the father of MEF servers, Chase, Joseph, and JP was admitted to the hospital this week. I called him today and received permission to put up some information. As of right now, Tim will be undergoing open heart surgery with a triple bypass for his heart on Tuesday September 8th. As Catholics, we know September 8th to be the Birth of Mary, Jesus' Mother. So I am asking that prayers, Holy Hours, rosaries, Masses, and whatever else can be offered for Tim be done.

In the mean time, Tim is receiving constant medications and waiting for Tuesday. Please feel free to bring cards and posters to this Monday's training session so we can get them sent to Tim.

In addition, the Goduti family also recently had a surgery this past month. I have not received permission or particulars, but suffice to say that prayers will be needed for them as well.

Last but not least, please bring all cards and items for Lucas' spiritual bouqet so that we can get that sent to him.

Mary, Mother of Hope, Queen of Angels, Ora pro nobis.

photo credit: fergal OP

Moving...maybe closer to you!

Beginning at 10:00 AM at 901 Brookrun Drive #1808 Charlotte, NC 28209 and going to 14406 Smith Road Charlotte, NC 28273, we'll make a total of 2 trips with the Penske truck and some vans. We'll have pizza for lunch and something else for dinner. Bring people...some can pack, some can carry, some can clean, and some can even babysit.

Call me for more info...and thanks in advance.

Homework?

Yes, there is homework for the servers to tuen for Tuesday August 18th's training session. Server are to write a 200 word essay. The essay should be typed and either emailed to me or printed and brought to Tuesday's training session.

The essay should explain how you would instruct someone in ways to participate in the MEF. Write the essay for a fellow Catholic who may have been to one MEF and walked away unsure of how to act or participate in the Mass.

Essays that are exceptional (well written, few to no grammatical errors, and convincing) will be posted on the blog. Enjoy.

Next Training Session: Monday August 10th

I look forward to Monday's training session.

Please remember to review the Canon using a 1962 missal (or one close to it). If you don't have a missal, you can view a rough version of the Canon online. Please remember to also bring your Missa Cantata work. Lastly, I remind the servers to bring cards and other prayers for Lucas' spiritual care package.

• Upcoming dates: August 17th training session has been moved to August 18th at 4:15pm.
• I need people to comment or email me with requests for Missa Cantata positions prior to this upcoming session.
• If anyone is willing to wash cassocks and surplice's, please let me know. Ours need it.
• I hope everyone who went to Discernment Day had a great time. We look forward to reports on Monday.

"August Happenings"

1. With so many of our servers attending Discernment Day, we are in need of other MEF servers to volunteer in assisting with set up for the Wednesday (Aug 5th) Benediction/Adoration. We have servers who can make it for the Mass, but we are in need for Benediction/Adoration. I will be working and so I cannot make it at that time.
2. My little family will be moving to a new house in a few weeks (Aug. 22nd). In order to make the move successful, I've had to move a training session from Monday August 17th Training session to Tuesday August 18th for the same time (4:15 to 6:00 pm).
3. Seminarian Lucas Rossi will not be attending any more training sessions due to schedule conflicts and he will be leaving his post at St. Ann's next week. I am asking all of the servers and their families to offer up prayers for Lucas and provide a card so we can gather them up for a spiritual care package for his last year in seminary.
4. We will begin work on the next Missa Cantata at the next training session. Servers are asked to bring their previous Missa Cantata work with them so we can jump start right back in it.
5. Early September will be the move in time for the new Church. Please be flexible with the schedule as we approach. We will be looking to help Mrs. Kuhn and Fr. Reid move items from the Sanctuary back into the new Church as well so stay tuned for more information.

Diocese of Charlotte Day of Discernment

The Diocese of Charlotte will be hosting a "Day of Discernment" for all high school and college boys interested in learning more about the vocation to the priesthood. It's a good day filled with fun, activities, meditation, and interaction with Bishop Jugis, seminarians (like Lucas Rossi who's been with us this summer), and priests.

This is not a day where if you attend you are expected to become a priest. It is a great opportunity to hang out and meet men who have answered God's call. Hearing God speak can be difficult. Listening to what the Lord is saying to you can be even more challenging. Finally, it's one thing to understand the Lord's will in your life; it's another to to follow it.

Here are the details:

• Wednesday August 5th 2009


• 10 am - 5pm


• St. Michael's Catholic Church, Gastonia


• Call 704-370-3327 to make your reservation.

For more information on the vocation to the priesthood in the Diocese of Charlotte:

• please talk with your pastor


• visit the Diocese of Charlotte website


• visit the Roman Catholic Vocations website

St. John Vianney, pray for us.

Photo Credit: Lawrence OP

Even the Holy Father takes vacations...

Welcome back everyone! We will be having training this afternoon Monday July 20th at 4:15PM. Please be sure to arrive on time. The St. Michael crowd will not be in attendance this week, but we still have work to do.

First off...I really changed the schedule for the end of July and August so that we could have coverage. Vacations are great, but I had to move things around to fill in holes and provide Lucas a chance to serve the MEF. PLEASE BE SURE TO CHECK THE SCHEDULE AS I MOVED A LOT OF PEOPLE AROUND.

I look forward to this evening.

Schedule Changes

There will not be a MEF this Saturday July 4th. If there's one next Saturday, July 11th, then we'll post that information.

Everyone should have a happy and SAFE 4th of July!

Back from a break

Sorry for delay in writing. I'm getting back into the swing of things. Please pray for my little family as we continue to search and follow God's will in finding a new home.

Check the updated Mass schedule. I've had to rearrange some folks due to sicknesses and other appeals. If this schedule doesn't work for you please let me know.

New Missa Cantata date is Saturday October 24th, the Vigil of the Feast of Christ the King!

More news to come.

Corpus Christi and more

This Sunday June 14th, all are invited to sit in the choir at the Novus Ordo 10:30 Mass. Here are your rubrics for that Mass:

• Be at St. Ann's by 10:00 AM. Dress in cassock and surplus. (If no cassock and surplus, dress in the white alb and cincture.) Per Fr. Reid's approval you will process up in pairs at the beginning of Mass. You will genuflect in pairs in front of the altar and then go to the liturgical choir. Your movements will be the same as the congregation, but be sure not to fidget as you will be an example for others. When it comes time for Communion, proceed to the Lateral Gospel side behind the acolytes kneeling on the step. Father will give you Communion and you are to return to the liturgical choir and kneel. At the end of Mass, you will process out under Fr. Reid's instructions. Then he will direct how you are to go about the actual Corpus Christi procession. He will need someone to ring the bells during the procession. I will not be there due to work, but my prayers will be there. All questions are to be directed to Lucas, the seminarian, and Fr. Reid.

This Monday June 15th we'll have a dinner party at the Borin's after the training session. (I know some may not be able to make it, but this was the only and best oppotunity to have it.) Please call each other and spread the word. Bring your swim suit...weather permitting. Families of the servers may attend. Families need to bring side dishes and deserts. Address and directions will be provided in the next day or two.

Due to sickness, we had Joseph and Benjamin Bruck step up and serve this past Wednesday. As a result, I rearranged the schedule a little to compensate so check it out. Thank you to those who couldn't make it which gave me notice beforehand to get the word out. Thanks to Debbie Mack for helping as I was at work at the time.

All are encouraged to pray the Corpus Christi novena in preparation for this weekend. Our ministry is to humble ourselves for Our Lord who humbles Himself by His Presence in the most Blessed Sacrament.

Sacred Heart of Jesus...have mercy on us.

Photo credit: Rrrodrigo

Training Recap 6/8/09

We'd like to welcome Lucas Rossi (going into his fourth year of seminary at Josephinum) to our parish for the summer. Having him at our training will provide a whole new perspective and we'll do well to use him as a resource.

The links to the schedules are final. Chase and Nate will go on Wednesday for both Adoration and the MEF. We'll pray for you guys.

As of right now we're looking to have the party on June 21st in the afternoon sometime at the Borin's unless anyone has any problem with having the party on Father's Day. Families are welcome and servers and families need to bring side dishes and desserts. Again, the date and time are not set. We are waiting for feedback.

Today we covered Adoration and two server training for the MEF. It went very well. Servers are reminded to pray together after the MEF. More detailed choir rubrics to come for many who are clamoring for it.

Be sure to get to the next practice as we apply a Salesian approach to the training and get back into increased prayer time during the training sessions.

photo credit: danielkedinger

Summer Schedule '09 (round 3)

Here's the latest. I will do one more round if needed. Remember, schedule is final after this Friday.

Summer '09 schedule Round 2

Check the sidebar for the new schedule I've re-worked based on the many requests. This schedule will not be final until this coming Friday, June 5th. Please be sure to contact me if you need help getting things worked out. Please check because I moved a lot of servers around.

Here's the practice schedule for the summer as well. As you can see, we're stepping back a bit with the training.

If anyone who's willing to host the servers and their families for a get-together/party please contact me.

Comments

Due to the lack of comments on the blog, I'm opening up the field so that anyone can comment. The catch is that I'll be moderating all comments before they're posted due to the nature of our young and innocent audience.

Comment away!

Proposed Summer Schedule

I've worked up a potential summer schedule. It's goal is to help the new servers get accustomed to serving at our Lord's altar. With one priest, about one MEF per week, and fifteen servers, everyone will get to serve two times this summer.

In July Fr. Reid will be making a trip for a few weeks and hopefully Fr. Kauth will come down to celebrate the MEF at St. Ann's. If this doesn't happen, we'll have to retool the schedule.

This shedule is not final. I'm asking that the servers and their parents go over it and let me know what won't work. This schedule will be finalized in one week, next Friday.

The training schedule should be out later today or this weekend. Thanks.

Post Missa Cantata - summer '09

Attending Mass today I realized that I will never approach the Liturgy in the same way after having spent a lot of time and research for the Missa Cantata. I hope that many of the servers and their families will feel the same way. It was a wonderful and mysterious experience, and much of the Novus Ordo makes a bit more sense to me. Here are some comments I received from folks who attended,

"God was wonderfully praised tonight." "It truly is the most beautiful thing this side of heaven, as described by Fr. Frederick Faber." "The Mass last night was absolutely beautiful."

Fr Reid was also very generous in his support and praise of the servers at the Missa Cantata.

Our goal is to serve the Lord and to point to God. So, I'd say that the servers did a great job in sticking to their ministry. We must continue our training to keep up skills for the Low Mass. A Mass is a Mass and we should put a lot of energy and preparation into every Mass served.

As for the summer, here's what's coming up in the immediate future:

• The Latin servers have been asked to be in the Corpus Christi procession at St. Ann's. This will occur on June 14th. More details will be made available as they come. All who can attend and serve are welcome.


• The next practice will be this Saturday, May 30th from 9 - 10:30 AM. If anyone can't attend Mass because the practice is too early, let me know and we'll change it to 10, but as for right now it'll be at 9 AM. I will hand out the proposed summer schedule at this practice. The new servers will be on it. The first new server will serve next Wednesday June 3rd.


• There will not be practice on Monday June 1st.


• There will be a Low Mass on Wednesday June 3rd.

More information to come.

Pic credit: Christopher M.

All Glory to God

Awesome job everyone!!! I got to spend a few minutes quickly going through some of the video of the Missa Cantata tonight. Everyone did so well. Fr. Reid was very pleased and joyous. Servers, as you continue to serve and glorify the Lord, more and more grace abounds for so many.

Parents, thank you for your support and efforts. Tonight would not have been possible without you.

I've got to work for the next three days, so no posts until Monday. No practice this coming Monday. I'll post the schedules next week for the summer. I'm very excited about bringing the Seraphim on board as we combine the groups.

Again, excellent job everyone.

T minus seven hours and a half hours...

The programs are at Fed Ex Office being printed now!!! I'm going to sleep for a few hours now.

I needed to clarify that the Seraphim not serving tonight don't have to be there until 6:15-6:30 pm. We'll hopefully have a small space in the front rows for the families of our servers. Some are asking why we have these seats reserved. First, there might be standing room only tonight...who knows how many are really going to show up. Second, I want all the servers and their families to get an upfront view of what's going on because they will be involved in it eventually. Third, because I can. :)

Last minute checklist:

• If serving, be there by 5:45 PM dressed and ready to go.
• Please be sure to eat well beforehand and bring snacks if necessary. I don't need servers fainting in the middle of this one.
• I will need assistance in the last half-hour because I have alot to do and I won't be able to direct traffic so I'm counting on the servers, families, and staff. (I've even called in Carol Kuhn.)
• Please prepare yourself with all of your soul. Family rosaries are a great way to do this. Meditation on Sacred Scripture that will be read is another good way.
• Last but not least, we've spent months preparing...it's in God's hands now...it'll be fine.

Dads and moms, I might need a camera operator, a choir helper, a first-aid go-to person, a babysitter and who knows what else...just in case anyone wants to help out. :)

Off the Cuff training time today

I will be meeting today with the Macks after the 6:00 pm Mass at St. Ann's to go over the changes at Communion. Anyone interested is more than welcome to go over some last minute details. We'll start once the Mass ends and finish up by 7:15pm. (There might be Seminarians there as well, but there's no guarantee.)

Missa Canata Home Stretch

Hello all,

Sorry for the major delays in posting. I'm moving on a lot of things. Here's the basics for right now:

• All servers meet at St. Ann's at 5:45pm to set up and go through a 20 minute run-through.
• There will not be any dinner or post-Mass happenings due to the need to simplify at this time. (Expect a party in the near future for all the hard work we've put in!)
• Due to the seminarians and priests attending, I'll need to have time to prepare them for their rubrics prior to the start of Mass, so I'll need help getting ready so that I have time for them.
• There has been a major change for Communion for Ac's, Th, and Bb. No changes for Tb's. More info on that later.
• Stay tuned today. More info to come.

Happy Mother's Day

A special thank you to all of the mothers of our servers. As Mary received Jesus, so did our mother's receive us. Let us thank the Lord for our mothers who, in doing God's will, guide, serve, teach, protect, love, pray, and sacrifice for the sake for us. So we pray for the mothers:

Debbie, Vicki, Shannon, Marla, Amber, Danielle, Amy, Amie, Theresa, Elizabeth, Lisette, and Kathy.

Ave María, grátia plena, Dóminus tecum; benedícta to in muliéribus, et benedíctus fructus ventris tui, Jesus. Sancta María, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatóribus, nunc et in hora mortis, nostræ. Amen.

Dig into the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass

There are many times during the Mass when I catch my mind wandering, and I realize that I need to focus on what's going on and why it's happening. I like to refer back to the testimony of Catalina of Bolivia on the Mass. Catalina is a visionary and a interlocutor, someone who receives messages from another and provides them to the public. In this case, Catalina claims to receive messages from our Blessed Mother.

While the Church has not formally recognized Catalina as a true visionary, in 2000, Fr. Daniel Gagnon of the Archdiocese of Mexico's Commission for the Doctrine of Faith has stated that,

"I DO NOT FIND ANYTHING AGAINST THE FAITH OR THE CUSTOMS OF THE CHURCH. IT IS NOT MY FUNCTION TO CONFIRM ITS SUPERNATURAL CHARACTER; NEVERTHELESS, I RECOMMEND IT FOR ITS SPIRITUAL INSPIRATION."

Because of the copyright I will link to the article, and I highly recommend this for the servers because it provides some spiritual insight into how they serve at the altar. Moreover Catalina takes a lot of the doctrine that we cover in the training and presents it in a new "light."

Let me know what you think.

Photo Credit: Martin Beek, Lawrence OP

Training Recap 5/8/09

Again...we had a great training session. This was an extra session where mostly Cherubim and some Seraphim showed up to put on some finishing touches for the run-through on Monday with Fr. Reid and the Schola.

Afterwards we went up to the cry room and worked on the testing for the Missa Cantata. The only official positions up to this point are the following:

• Luke Bruck - Boat Bearer (by the way, Luke deftly handled the Boat Bearer test receiving questions read aloud from the other servers. - afterwards many of the servers remarked that one day they'll want to be Boat Bearer when he becomes a thurifer.)
• Joseph Yellico - Torch Bearer
• Sam Dehority - Torch Bearer

Congrats to Seraphim Sam and Joseph Y. for making it through the testing with only having been to one or two Missa Cantata practices. Greaty job!

More on results from the other positions to come. Next training session is Monday May 11th. Seraphim go from 4:15 to 5:45 and finish out the Low Mass. Cherubim, Sam Dehority, and Joseph Yellico will go from 6 - 8 pm for the full Missa Cantata run through.

Keep it up everyone! All of the servers have been doing an awesome job studying, training, and serving the Lord. Thanks to all of the parents for their hard work in helping this ministry exist. Thanks to everyone for their prayers for our serving ministry. Without God we would not be here.

Training Recap - 5/4/09

Great afternoon for training today.

The Seraphim made it all the way to the Post Communion Prayers. Next Monday we'll finally finish out the Low Mass. Seraphim can expect their Low Mass test on May 18th. The results of that test will help determine the order of who begins serving with Fr. Reid and the other servers.

May 18th will also be the last day of the division of the two groups. No longer will we have Cherubim and Seraphim until the next newbie class comes in, which won't be until next year. Repeat: after May 18th all servers will be in one group which will usually meet from 4:15 to 5:45 pm on Mondays.

The Cherubim who showed up tonight along with some of the Seraphim took the Torch Bearer test, and the concensus was that it was difficult. 32 fill in the blank questions that were extremely picky comprised the test. The results showed that serving the Missa Cantata will be very demanding. Then we covered a lot of ground with a great run through of the Missa Cantata.

Upcoming events:

• This Friday, May 8th we'll have another Missa Cantata training session from 5 - 7 pm. The first half will be in the Sanctuary doing a Missa Cantata run-through. The second half will be testing which will occur in classrooms 1 and 2 upstairs. All Cherubim need to be there. Any Seraphim interested in serving as Torch Bearers need to be there as well.


• Monday May 11th the Seraphim who are not in the Missa Cantata will attend practice from 4:45 to 5:45. Then from 6 - 8 pm the rest of the servers will participate in a live rehearsal of the Missa Cantata. Terese and the schola as well as Fr. Reid will be in attendance for this rehearsal. We need to be on the ball for this which is why the tests will be this Friday.


• Monday May 18th practice will have the last separated practices with the Seraphim going from 4:15 to 6:15 pm. Cherubim will be there from 5:45 to 7:30 pm. Terese Rowe will be instructing again from 5:45 to 6:15pm, which is why the times are extended.


• Thursday May 21st 7:00 pm is the start time for the Missa Cantata. All servers (Cherubim and Seraphim) need to present no later than 6:15 pm dressed and ready to help out.

This is going to be an awesome Mass. Keep up the good work!

Pic Credit: Jim the Photographer

Missa Cantata News Flash

Here's the updates:

• For those who don't know, the Missa Cantata is scheduled for 7:00 pm May 21st at St. Ann's. All servers are expected to attend.
• Finished server cards have been emailed out to all families, please pick two positions and know them by the May 4th session. Know them so well you will impress the Lord.
• New Training session added for the Cherubim and those Seraphim who want to serve in the Missa Cantata on Friday May 8th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Missa Cantata position tests will be administered that day.
• May 11th training practice has altered times: Seraphim are normal from 4:15 to 5:45. Cherubim are from 6:00 to 8:00. Fr. Reid, Terese, and the schola will work with us to do a complete rehearsal for the Missa Cantata. Yes, it's important to be there.
• I need help with the program for the Missa Canata. Anyone interested can let me know asap.

This will be great as long as everyone is willing to put the finishing touches on and pray.

2nd Wednesday in Lent Low Mass Video (Part 5)

Training Recap - 4/27/09

I'd like to thank Terese Rowe for her efforts in teaching the servers how to sing the responses for the Missa Cantata. The servers did an excellent job. We're going to hopefully have one more session before the Missa Cantata.

Seraphim need to have the rest of the Low Mass covered for the next training session. Cherubim need to go over the Missa Cantata server cards that will be emailed out.

A recording of Monday's practice will be available online as soon as I figure out how to put it online. :)

Lot's more to come. Stay tuned.

Training Recap - 4/21/09

We had a great day at training. The Seraphim made it through the Canon with some hard-core discussion on the Eucharist, transubstantiation, and Sacred Scripture. They also have a good bit of homework as we approach the end of the first phase of training:

Seraphim Homework:

• Read John 1:1-18 before Monday April 27th.
• Read Ezekiel Chapter 36 before Monday April 27th.
• Complete the MEF Experience by May 20th, 2009 (I added the worksheet as a document on this site.)
• Study for the MEF test to be given before May 20th at a training session after April 27th.
• Be able to explain the Scriptural basis for the Sanctus for 10 extra credit points for the test with the two different sources of Scripture.

The Cherubim also worked hard on perfecting the Missa Cantata. Here is the latest info:

• During the Procession, Ac1 and Ac2 will both go to the altar with the Cb and reverence the altar. The Cb will put the Cross up, but the Ac's will go off-sides, wait for the MC and Celebrant, genuflect with them, and then head to the credence table.
• The Tb's will not flank each other in a diagonal fashion during the Canon when they kneel. They will form a straight line parallel with the altar.
• After the Celebrant receives Jesus, the line up at the altar for receiving Communion has changed...MC-Ac2-Cb-Ac1-Bb-Th. (Th brings paten over.)
• There are new rules for sitting in the choir...more info to come on that.
• Cherubim will also take a test on one of the training dates. The test will cover all material ever presented, especially rubrics and Latin for the Low Mass and the Missa Cantata.

Please remember to come to the Monday April 27th training session to learn to sing the responses with Terese Rowe. Please note that in the next few weeks, we will do a run-through with Fr. Reid and the schola for the Missa Cantata. Please note that not all servers will be granted permission to sit in the choir. It's a privilege for those who will respect their ministry. It's a privilege, not a right.

Thanks to all for their dedication and hard work.

Low Mass - 2nd Wednesday in Lent Part 4

Time to learn how to chant...

For months, we've been expecting the music director at St. Ann's, Terese Rowe, to come and teach the servers how to properly respond in the Missa Cantata. Things are moving forward on schedule and Terese will be coming to our training session on Monday April 27th. We'll have both groups meet from 5 - 7 pm.

As you know it's rare to have guests come to our training sessions. It's even more rare to have a guest who will assist in the training. Terese has spent a lot of time acquiring the appropriate resources and training the schola to musically pray for the Missa Cantata. In the city of Charlotte, she's the first to do this. From my information, in the Diocese of Charlotte, she's the first to utilize an all male schola for a Missa Cantata.

To put this experience in perspective, I offer this slideshow: the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter Our Lady of Guadaloupe Seminary on learning Gregorian chant. (h/t to Roman Catholic Vocations). This is well worth your time.

pic credit: Roman Catholic Vocations

Back to work

I hope everyone is enjoying the the Easter Octave. Tonight's MEF was great. Joseph and Luke Bruck did a good job serving and the Liturgy flowed smoothly. Now that the the Paschal season has begun, expect posts to continue regularly.

Jesus Christ is risen; Alleluia!

JP II - Salt and Light

Yesterday, April 2nd marked the fourth anniversary of the passing of John Paul II. Pope Benedict XVI's homily was reported on VIS and he capitalizes on the fervor and joy of the late pontiff's desire to spread the Word of God.

As disciples we are called to be the "salt of the earth*" and "the light of the world.*" As servers, we must serve the Lord in the Sanctuary and out in the world. Take a few moments to read the report and then take some time with your parents and family to discuss the late JP II's role in spreading the Gospel and what you can do to retain your saltiness and light.

*Suggested reading: Matthew 5: 13-14

JOHN PAUL II COMMUNICATED HOPE VATICAN CITY
3 APR 2009 (VIS) - In the Vatican Basilica at 6 p.m. yesterday, 2 April and fourth anniversary of the death of John Paul II, Benedict XVI presided at a Mass in commemoration of his predecessor. In his homily, Benedict XVI explained how John Paul II "remains alive in people's hearts, as is evident from the non-stop pilgrimage of the faithful to his tomb in the Vatican Grottoes".
Turning then to address young people he said: "Your presence brings to mind the enthusiasm John Paul II was able to infuse in the new generations. His memory is a stimulus for us all, as we gather in this basilica where he often celebrated the Eucharist, to allow ourselves to be illuminated and summoned by the Word of God". The Holy Father then considered the Gospel readings, highlighting the difficulties involved in being witnesses of Christ.
"Our thoughts", he said, "go to the beloved Servant of God Karol Wojtyla - John Paul II, who from his youth showed himself to be a bold and intrepid defender of Christ.
For His sake, he did not hesitate to spend all his energies in order to carry His light everywhere. He accepted no compromise when it came to proclaiming and defending His Truth. He never tired of spreading His love. From the beginning of his pontificate, right up to 2 April 2005, he was not afraid to proclaim, always and to everyone, that only Jesus is the true Liberator of man".
Benedict XVI also dwelt on the fruitfulness of John Paul II's pontificate. "We could say ... that he generated many sons and daughters in the faith", he affirmed, telling the young people present that they "ideally represent the ranks of young men and women who have participated in the twenty-three World Youth Days in various parts of the world. How many vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life, how many young families resolved to live the evangelical ideal and to tend towards sanctity are linked to the testimony and preaching of my venerated predecessor!" the Pope cried. "How many young men and women have converted to, or maintained, the Christian path, thanks to his prayers, his encouragement and the support of his example"!
"John Paul II was able to communicate a powerful message of hope, founded on faith in Jesus Christ Who is 'is the same yesterday, and today, and forever'. ... As an affectionate father and a careful teacher, he indicated sure and sound points of reference indispensable for everyone, especially for the young. And in his final hours and his death this new generation wished to show they had understood his teaching, gathering silently in prayer in St. Peter's Square and many other places around the world. Those young people were aware that his demise was a loss: 'their' Pope was dying, whom they considered as 'their father' in the faith".
"We cannot live without hope", insisted the Holy Father, "but we must be careful. In times such as these, given the cultural and social context in which we live, there is a risk of reducing Christian hope to an ideology, to group slogans, to exterior cladding. Nothing could be more opposite to Jesus' message! He does not want His disciples 'to recite' a role, even a role of hope. He wants them 'to be' hope, and they can be so only if they remain united to Him".
"If the words of Christ remain within us, then we will be able to propagate the flame of love that He lit upon the earth; we will be able to hold high the torch of faith and hope. ... This is the flame that Pope John Paul II left as his legacy. He gave it to me as his successor, and this evening I ideally consign it, once again, to you young people of Rome, that you may continue to be sentinels of the morning, watchful and joyful at this dawn of the third millennium".

A classic video presentation of JPII that's been floating around the blogosphere. Enjoy.

Palm Sunday MEF at St. Ann's

Fr. Reid will be celebrating Palm Sunday using the Mass of the Extraordinary Form on Saturday April 4th. Mass will begin at 6:30 PM. This is a great and rare opportunity for Charlotte and the servers would get to see the rubrics for the distribution of palms at the beginning.

Thanks goes out to the Chase and Joseph Mack for serving tomorrow.

"So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" (John 12:13)

Training Recap - 3/30

This past Monday, March 30th, the Seraphim moved forward into Lesson 2. Moving forward fast, on Monday April 6th we'll review Lessons 1 and 2 quickly and then we'll conquer Lesson 3 and start on Lesson 4.
Seraphim homework:

• Servers need to be able to recite the Prayers at the Foot of the Altar with the proper rubrics.
• Have practiced at home Lesson 2.
• Have reviewed Lesson 3 & 4 (to the end of the Canon).

The Cherubim spent a good bit of time learning the Liturgy of the Hours. We prayed Vespers and will continue to learn and work on those prayers. Then we spent time working on the Missa Cantata.

I have a tentative date with Terese Rowe for April 27th or May 4th to practice singing so please plan on being available those two sessions. Last but not least, a new Mass and training schedule was handed out. The schedule is available on the blog. More to come.

Second Wednesday in Lent Low Mass (Part 3)

Second Wednesday in Lent Low Mass Video #2

Diocese of Charlotte Youth Pilgrimage '09

The Diocese of Charlotte is once again offering the Lenten Youth Pilgrimage to Belmont Abbey. The official website provides good information. (Scroll down when you click the link.)

Here are the basics:

1. Sunday March 29th, 2009 from 12:30 to 6:15 pm at Belmont Abbey.

2. ***Eucharistic Exposition, Adoration, Procession, and Benediction*** (best reason to go)

3. Programs for parents and the young attendees.

4. Bishop Jugis, Abbot Placid Solari, and Seminarian Paul McNulty to talk.

5. Vespers Opportunity to praise the Lord with area youth.

I would like to see a 100% attendance to this Pilgrimage as it would be a huge blessing for anyone serving in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. "The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith." I'm looking for chaperones to assist, although I believe parents and families would benefit from attending as well.
Photo credit: http://www.goeucharist.com/

Second Wednesday in Lent Low Mass Video

With much difficulty, the Lord has finally allowed me to post this video. I hope the servers will benefit from it. Hopefully, I'll be able to upload the other parts of the Mass. I can only upload 8 minutes at a time. Enjoy.

Training Recap - St. Patrick's Day

We finally were able to have practice after the last two cancelled training sessions. The Seraphim had good numbers today with 5 out of 7 able to make it. We were finally able to work on the rubrics of Lesson #1, having spent over two months working on the Latin. Next session will see us conquering Lesson #2 and going through Lesson #3. Be prepared as each lesson will be more demanding in knowing where to move, when to move, and how to move.

Seraphim Homework:

1. Watch the videos on this blog to assist with being comfortable with Lesson #1.
2. Using the server cards and the little white book (How to serve Low Mass & Benediction) to review and know Lesson #2 and go over Lesson #3.
3. We had some Seraphim who were very competent with the Latin. Everyone needs to be comfortable with the first part of the Mass. Review it as much as you can. When it's time to actually serve, being comfortable with the first part will make a huge difference.
4. Go to the Wednesday MEF at St. Ann's. Experience what you are learning about.

The Cherubim had a poor turnout due to many factors. David R. made a cameo appearance for our first training session back on the Missa Cantata. With some more revisions to the cards, we breezed through a practice run. Highlights to changes will be posted later.

The Cherubim are encouraged to acquire a breviary, the Liturgy of the Hours, so that we can pray evening prayer at the training sessions. You can either get Christian Prayer, or if you're really motivated, you can get the four volume edition!

Our journaling prompt for this session was: God loves me. Sin can distance us from the Lord. Sometimes we have difficulty receiving love as a consequence of sin. Remember God loves you know matter what happens.

Next practice is March 30th at the regular times. See you there!

A note on Eucharistic Adoration

The Vatican Information Service (VIS) provides stories, reports, and statistics of the Vatican, especially on the Holy Father. Usually, the "mid-day addresses" are reported where the Holy Father provides instruction, re-caps of speeches he made, and catechesis through his Wednesday addresses. Many of these reports and stories provide valuable insight into the teaching of Holy Mother Church and a good number can deepen our faith and participation in the MEF.

This past friday Friday, VIS reported on the Holy Father's speech to "the plenary assembly of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, who have been meeting to consider the question of Eucharistic adoration."

"The doctrine of the transubstantiation of the bread and wine, and of the real presence, are a truth of faith, already evident in Holy Scripture and later confirmed by the Fathers of the Church", said Benedict XVI.

After then explaining that, "in the Eucharist, adoration must become union: union with the living Lord and with His mystical Body", the Pope recalled words he had pronounced at World Youth Day 2005 in the German city of Cologne: "God no longer simply stands before us as the One who is totally Other. He is within us, and we are in Him. His dynamic enters into us and then seeks to spread outwards to others until it fills the world, so that His love can truly become the dominant measure of the world.

"On that occasion", he added, "I also reminded young people that in the Eucharist we experience the fundamental transformation of violence into love, of death into life. This brings other changes in its wake".

The Pope highlighted the importance of a renewal of Eucharistic adoration. This, he said, "will only be possible through a greater awareness of the mystery in complete faithfulness to Sacred Tradition, and by enhancing liturgical life within our communities". In this context, he also expressed his appreciation at the fact that the plenary had examined the question of "the formation of all the People of God in the faith, with particular concern for seminarians, favouring their development in a spirit of authentic Eucharistic adoration".

"Recalling three penitential practices particularly dear to biblical and Christian tradition (prayer, almsgiving and fasting)", he concluded, "let us encourage one another to rediscover and practice fasting with renewed fervour, not only as a form of asceticism but also as a preparation for the Eucharist and as a spiritual weapon to fight against any disordered attachment to ourselves". "

In the Diocese of Charlotte, there are a number of pastors who have instituted Eucharistic Adoration. In the city of Charlotte, there's specific times for Adoration at most of the parishes including, but not limited to, St. Patrick's (Wednesday's), St. Michael's (Wednesday's), St. Ann's (Wednesday's) and there's 24 hour perpetual Adoration at St. Gabriel.

The Diocese of Charlotte Catholic News and Herald recently went to St. Ann's and reported on Eucharistic Adoration there. (.pdf version)

Everyone, especially servers, are encouraged to make the time to adore the Lord and allow Him to continuously convert your hearts so that you may be more united with Him and serve Him with the love He deserves.

Photo credit: Lawrence OP http://www.flickr.com/photos/paullew/

Going Public

With limited feedback, the decision for this blog is to go public. So here's how things will work:

• Anyone and everyone can see the blog.
• Anyone who is registered with Blogger can comment.
• All comments will be moderated before posting.

Those I talked with agreed that the resources this blog will provide would be beneficial to many in our Diocese and elsewhere. As long as the volume of comments are reasonable, I can ensure a safe environment for families, children, and those striving for holiness.

Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts, and thanks to everyone for their patience as the blog is continuously developed.

Low Mass Video Part 1

This is the video of the Epiphany Feria Mass. The sounds on this one weren't too bad. I'll improve my amateur video skills as well for the next Mass. The next parts will be loaded soon. They take a while. Enjoy and let me know what you think.




*update: The rest of the videos for this Mass will not be posted due to technical difficulties (I've always wanted to use that phrase meaningfully.) I was able to record a new MEF, without annoying sounds, that will be posted as soon it as it finishes uploading.

In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen.

Welcome to the St. Ann's MEF servers blog. Due to the large amount of information and resources necessary to instruct, educate, and catechize the young men serving at St. Ann's, a demand grew for a organized method of communication. This blog will serve as a supplement to the formation these young men receive.


The first test run of this blog will be a couple of questions posed to the parents of the servers:

• Right now, this blog will be only viewable to those invited. Comments made on posts will only be from invited members. Should the blog be available to the public?
• If the blog is available to the public, should only members be allowed to comment?

Fr. Reid will have the final say on everything, but input from the parents are crucial in making such decision.