Author: Brian O'Curran

Mary: A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother

Join us for Mary: A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother, an inspiring eight-session study led by renowned Catholic author and theologian Dr. Edward Sri. Filmed on location in the Holy Land, this program takes participants on a spiritual pilgrimage through the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, exploring her joys, sorrows, and unique role in God’s plan of salvation.

This study is designed for Catholic men who desire a deeper understanding of Scripture, a stronger relationship with Christ, and a greater appreciation for the Blessed Mother’s role in God’s plan.

Program Details

• Begins: Saturday, July 25, Session 2 (see below)
• Time: 9:00 AM
• Location: Aquinas Room, St. Clement of Rome
• Duration: 8 Sessions
• Workbook Donation: $25
• No previous Bible study experience is necessary

Here’s a version that would work well as a parish or COR website post:

Session Two: The Annunciation – Mary’s “Yes” to God, July 25

In our second COR Marian study, we reflected on one of the most beautiful moments in Scripture: the Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38), when the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she had been chosen to be the Mother of Jesus.

Together we explored the meaning behind Gabriel’s remarkable greeting, “Hail, full of grace,” and why the Church recognizes these words as revealing Mary’s unique role in God’s plan of salvation. We also examined the biblical foundations of the Immaculate Conception and how Mary’s life had been specially prepared for her mission.

Our discussion connected the Annunciation with key Old Testament figures such as Moses and Gideon, showing that, like them, Mary was called to an extraordinary mission with the assurance that “the Lord is with you.” Unlike many who were overwhelmed by fear, Mary responded with faith, trust, and humble obedience.

We also looked at how Gabriel’s announcement fulfilled God’s ancient promise to King David that the Messiah would reign forever. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Mary would become the Mother of the Son of God, bringing God’s plan of redemption into the world.

The session concluded by reflecting on Mary’s response:

“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

Mary’s “fiat”—her wholehearted “yes” to God—remains a model for every Christian. Her example challenges each of us to ask whether we are willing to trust God’s plan above our own and to live each day as faithful servants of the Lord.

As a practical takeaway, the men were encouraged to spend time this week asking God where He is calling them to greater trust and obedience—in their families, work, friendships, and spiritual lives—and to respond with the same faith and generosity that Mary demonstrated.

Session Three: The Visitation – Mary’s Faith in Action, August 22

In our third COR Marian study, we reflected on the Visitation (Luke 1:39–56), when Mary traveled “with haste” to visit her cousin Elizabeth after the Annunciation. This journey reveals Mary’s deep faith, humility, and desire to serve others, even as she carried the Son of God within her.

As Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, greeted Mary with the words, “Blessed are you among women” and “the mother of my Lord,” we explored why these titles are so significant. Rooted in the Old Testament, they reveal Mary as the new Queen Mother in the Kingdom of God and the most honored woman in salvation history.

We also examined the striking parallels between Mary’s journey and the Old Testament Ark of the Covenant. Just as the Ark carried God’s presence to His people, Mary carried Jesus—the true presence of God—to Elizabeth. Luke intentionally draws these connections to show that Mary is the New Ark of the Covenant, bearing within her the fulfillment of God’s promises.

The heart of the session centered on Mary’s beautiful hymn of praise, the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55). Rather than drawing attention to herself, Mary glorifies God for His mercy, faithfulness, and love for the humble. Her prayer reminds us that God lifts up the lowly, keeps His promises, and invites each of us to trust in His providence.

The evening concluded by challenging the men to imitate Mary’s example—to respond quickly when God calls, to serve others with humility, and to make praise and gratitude a daily part of their lives. Like Mary, we are called to bring Christ to those around us through our words, actions, and faithful witness.

What You’ll Gain

• A deeper understanding of Mary in Scripture
• Answers to common questions about Marian devotion
• Greater confidence explaining Catholic teaching
• Stronger prayer life and relationship with Christ
• Fellowship with other Catholic men

Through Scripture, engaging video presentations, and group discussion, participants will discover how Mary reveals God’s plan for humanity and continues to lead believers closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. Topics include the Annunciation, the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, the Finding of Jesus in the Temple, and Mary’s heavenly glory.

As we come to know Mary more deeply, we come to know Jesus more fully. This study will help participants develop a closer relationship with the Blessed Mother, strengthen their faith, and grow in their daily walk with Christ.

“The better we know Mary, the better we will know her Son.”

Mary’s only recorded instruction to us in Sacred Scripture is, “Do whatever He tells you.” Those words summarize her entire mission: to lead souls to Jesus Christ.

A participant workbook is available for this study and is highly recommended. To help offset the cost of materials, we ask for a $25 donation. To reserve your workbook and make your donation, click here.

Whether you already have a strong devotion to Our Lady or are just beginning to understand her place in salvation history, this study offers a unique opportunity to encounter Christ through the eyes of His Blessed Mother. We invite you to join us as we walk with Mary and draw closer to her Son.

Our first session in this series will be on Saturday, June 27, 9 am in the Saint Thomas Aquinas Room at St Clement of Rome Catholic Church in Romeo, MI.

Cor is just getting started at St. Clement of Rome Parish in Romeo, Michigan. Cor is a fraternity of Catholic men who desire to grow stronger in faith, virtue, and brotherhood. In a world that often pulls men in a hundred different directions, Cor offers a place to slow down, speak honestly, and encourage one another to live as authentic Catholic men—as husbands, fathers, sons, and leaders—rooted in Christ and His Church.

Through prayer, meaningful discussion, and real fellowship, Cor helps men deepen their relationship with God while forming genuine bonds with other men who are striving for the same goal: holiness. If you’re looking for more than a surface-level men’s group—if you want faith that is lived, challenged, and supported—Cor may be for you. If you’re interested in growing in your faith and walking this journey alongside other committed Catholic men, please fill out the form below and join us.

Our first Cor gathering at St. Clement of Rome was a tremendous blessing and an encouraging sign of what is to come. Nearly 20 men came together in fraternity to pray, reflect, and speak honestly about where they are in their spiritual lives. The discussion was thoughtful, respectful, and deeply constructive—exactly the kind of authentic encounter Cor is meant to foster.

Fr. Vito led us through several key themes of Advent, helping ground our conversation in the Church’s call to watchfulness, repentance, and hopeful expectation as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. His guidance set a strong spiritual foundation and reminded us that Cor is not about having all the answers, but about intentionally turning our hearts toward the Lord together.

The morning also included simple fellowship over coffee and donuts, reinforcing the brotherhood that lies at the heart of Cor. By the end of the meeting, there was a shared sense of purpose and enthusiasm, and the group unanimously agreed to continue the journey by meeting again in January.

We are grateful to everyone who attended and took part in this first step. Cor at St. Clement of Rome is off to a strong start, and we look forward to growing together in faith, virtue, and fraternity in the months ahead.

Would you like to be kept up to date on future events and activities? Please use the form below. We’re starting a new Cor-only distribution list. We had several guys attend who aren’t Knights and from other parishes.

A live action shot!

Click here to go to the main Cor info page.

It was another banner year for kids getting to talk directly to the Big Guy. No, not that Big Guy… Santa. A big thanks to everyone who helped out today and, of course, a huge thanks to Santa for taking time out at this very busy time of year. The guy is a real giver.

Please Note: If your child is included below and, for whatever reason, you’d like to have the picture taken down, please use the “Contact Us” form on this site. We’ll remove it immediately.

Please help us make this COR Program meaningful to you. Take 2 minutes and answer the following questions. Below, we ask for your name, email, and phone number. We are building a distribution list to keep men informed about the logistics and details of this particular program. You will NOT receive emails on any other topics. Additionally, if you provide your phone number, you’ll be added to an occasional robocall and SMS message list.

Please note that your Email and Phone number are not required fields. However, having this information will enable us to stay in contact with you. Your information is private; it will not be sold or shared with anyone.

If you have any questions about COR, this survey or any topic on this website, please get in touch with Brian O’Curran using the “Contact Us” form above.

Strengthen Your Faith • Build Brotherhood • Encounter Christ

Next Meeting Mary: A Biblical Walk with the Blessed Mother	Saturday, July 25th, Session 2 Saturday, August 22, Session 3 Details Here
Cor Main Page for St Clement	You Have Found It! 😎
Cor Communication Opt-in	Here (Stay Informed)
Cor Survey	Here (Help Us Chart a Course)
First Meeting Recap	Here
Second Meeting, Prep for Lent	Here (Relive the Magic)
Cor Facebook Page	Here (Follow Us)

Why Men Need to Grow in Faith—Together

In today’s world, it’s easy for men to feel isolated, distracted, and pulled in too many directions. Yet, as Catholic men, we are called to lead—with courage, integrity, and faith. Growth in our relationship with Christ doesn’t happen alone; it happens when we walk with other men who challenge and encourage us to live out our faith in daily life. Being part of a brotherhood rooted in prayer and truth helps us become better husbands, fathers, and disciples. The COR program is designed to strengthen men in their spiritual lives and to build the kind of authentic fraternity that every man needs to stand firm in his Catholic faith.

What is Cor?

COR — Latin for “heart” — is a men’s faith initiative from the Knights of Columbus. It’s a place for Catholic men to encounter Christ, deepen their faith, and grow in authentic brotherhood. Each gathering includes prayer, reflection, and open conversation that connects faith to everyday life — at home, at work, and in our parish community.

Why Cor at St. Clement?

Our pastor, Fr. Chris, has invited the Knights of Columbus to launch COR here at St. Clement. This ministry is open to all men of the parish — Knights and non-Knights alike — who desire to grow in faith and friendship.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17

Our Next Meeting:

📅 Saturday, JULY 25th
🕘 9:00 – 10:30 AM
📍 St. Clement of Rome, Aquanis Room

Have Your Say

We’re shaping the future of COR at our parish, and we’d love your input. Please take our short 2-minute survey to share your preferences and interests.

Please follow us on Facebook, COR at St Clement of Rome, click the image below.

A Special Visit to St. Clement of Rome
Join us for a Sacred Heart Holy Hour
Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Welcome the Sacred Heart Icon

Our Knights of Columbus Council is honored to host the Sacred Heart of Jesus Pilgrim Icon, part of a worldwide program that has touched the lives of over 23 million faithful since 1979. This sacred icon, blessed by Pope Francis, features a reproduction of Pompeo Batoni’s renowned 1767 painting of the Sacred Heart, which is venerated at the Church of the Gesù in Rome.

The Sacred Heart represents God’s boundless and passionate love for mankind and symbolizes the long-suffering love and compassion of Christ’s heart toward humanity. This devotion, rooted in the mystical revelations to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque between 1673 and 1675, continues to inspire Catholics worldwide to grow closer to Jesus through His Sacred Heart.

Join Us in Prayer

All parishioners, families, and friends are warmly invited to attend this special Sacred Heart Holy Hour on Monday evening. Come and experience the peace, mercy, and abundant love that flows from the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Let us gather as a parish family to honor Christ’s heart, which beats with infinite love for each of us.

Sacred Heart Holy Hour Program
Monday, September 29, 2025 – 6:00 PM In the Day Chapel

Our special Sacred Heart Holy Hour will include:

• Scripture Readings from the Word of God
• Reflections from Pope Francis on the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• The Divine Mercy Chaplet
• Prayers to the Sacred Heart including traditional devotions
• Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Time for Silent Prayer and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

Enthrone the Sacred Heart in Your Home

Families are encouraged to enthrone the Sacred Heart in their homes by placing an image of the Sacred Heart in a place of honor and conducting a simple enthronement ceremony. This practice brings Christ’s love and protection directly into our domestic churches.

The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the most cherished and widespread Catholic devotions, emphasizing Jesus’ boundless love and mercy for humanity. It finds its roots in scripture and tradition, flourished in the medieval mystical era, and reached its current form through the revelations to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century.

History of the Devotion

• The concept has scriptural origins, including references to God’s love and Christ’s wounded heart.
• Early Christians and Church Fathers often meditated on Jesus’ Five Wounds; St. Gertrude the Great (13th century) had mystical experiences highlighting the Heart of Jesus.
• Formal devotion began to coalesce in the 17th century with St. John Eudes, who promoted the first feasts and prayers to the Sacred Heart.
• The devotion was universally established after Christ’s apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (1673–1675), whose confessor St. Claude de la Colombière helped spread devotion and consecration to the Sacred Heart.

Devotional Practices

• Feast Day: Celebrated on the Friday after the octave of Corpus Christi (usually in June), as requested by Christ in a vision to St. Margaret Mary.
• First Friday Devotions: Catholics are encouraged to receive Holy Communion and make reparations on the first Friday of every month in honor of Christ’s Heart.
• Holy Hour: Devotees spend an hour of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, often meditating on the sufferings and love of Christ.

Prayers and Litanies

• Consecration to the Sacred Heart: The act of offering oneself or one’s family to Jesus, trusting in His love and protection.
• Litany of the Sacred Heart: A series of invocations praising Jesus’ virtues and love, ending with petitions for mercy and grace.
• Novena to the Sacred Heart: A nine-day prayer for special intentions, often preceding the feast.

Theological Significance

• The Sacred Heart is a symbol of Jesus’ infinite charity, mercy, and the desire to draw souls to His redeeming love.
• Papal encyclicals (e.g., Miserentissimus Redemptor by Pope Pius XI) declare this devotion “the epitome of our religion,” encouraging universal participation and emphasizing acts of reparation for offenses against Christ.

Iconography

• Typically depicted as a flaming heart shining with divine light, wounded and encircled by the crown of thorns, surmounted by a cross—a visual summary of Christ’s loving sacrifice and passion.

The Twelve Promises of the Sacred Heart

Jesus promised St. Margaret Mary twelve special graces for those devoted to His Sacred Heart:

1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life
2. I will establish peace in their families
3. I will comfort them in their trials
4. I will be their secure refuge during life, and, above all, in death
5. I will bestow abundant blessings upon all their undertakings
6. Sinners shall find in my Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy
7. Lukewarm souls shall become fervent
8. Fervent souls shall quickly mount to high perfection
9. I will bless every place where a picture of my Heart shall be set up and honored
10. I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts
11. Those who shall promote this devotion shall have their names written in my Heart, never to be effaced
12. I promise you, in the excessive mercy of my Heart, that my all-powerful love will grant, to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance

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Act of Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

(Composed by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque)

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, to Thee I consecrate and offer up my person and my life, my actions, trials, and sufferings, that my entire being may henceforth only be employed in loving, honoring and glorifying Thee. This is my irrevocable will, to belong entirely to Thee, and to do all for Thy love, renouncing with my whole heart all that can displease Thee.

I take Thee, O Sacred Heart, for the sole object of my love, the protection of my life, the pledge of my salvation, the remedy of my frailty and inconstancy, the reparation for all the defects of my life, and my secure refuge at the hour of my death. Be Thou, O Most Merciful Heart, my justification before God Thy Father, and screen me from His anger which I have so justly merited. I fear all from my own weakness and malice, but placing my entire confidence in Thee, O Heart of Love, I hope all from Thine infinite Goodness.

Annihilate in me all that can displease or resist Thee. Imprint Thy pure love so deeply in my heart that I may never forget Thee or be separated from Thee.

I beseech Thee, through Thine infinite Goodness, grant that my name be engraved upon Thy Heart, for in this I place all my happiness and all my glory, to live and to die as one of Thy devoted servants.

Amen.

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Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.

Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.

God the Father of Heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Ghost,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God,
have mercy on us.

Heart of Jesus, Son of the Eternal Father,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, formed by the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mother,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, united substantially with the Word of God,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, of infinite majesty,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, holy temple of God,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, tabernacle of the Most High,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, house of God and gate of Heaven,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, glowing furnace of charity,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, vessel of justice and love,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, full of goodness and love,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, abyss of all virtues,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, most worthy of all praise,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, king and center of all hearts,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, in whom dwell all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, in whom the Father is well pleased,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, of whose fullness we have all received,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, desire of the everlasting hills,
have mercy on us.

Heart of Jesus, patient and rich in mercy,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, enriching all who invoke Thee,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, fountain of life and holiness,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, propitiation for our sins,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, saturated with insults,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, bruised for our offenses,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, obedient unto death,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, pierced with a lance,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, source of all consolation,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, our life and resurrection,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, our peace and reconciliation,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, victim for our sins,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, salvation of those who trust in Thee,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, hope of those who die in Thee,
have mercy on us.
Heart of Jesus, delight of all the Saints,
have mercy on us.

Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world,
have mercy on us.

Jesus, meek and humble of Heart,
make our hearts like unto Thine.

Let us pray:
Almighty and Eternal God, look upon the Heart of Thy beloved Son and upon the praise and satisfaction He offers Thee in the name of sinners; and grant that we may obtain forgiveness of our sins and the grace to serve Thee with all our hearts. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Prayer of Reparation to the Sacred Heart

O most holy Heart of Jesus, fountain of every blessing,
I adore You, I love You, and with lively sorrow for my sins
I offer You this poor heart of mine.
Make me humble, patient, pure, and wholly obedient to Your will.
Grant, Good Jesus, that I may live in You and for You.
Protect my loved ones, and give me the grace to do Your holy will.
Amen.

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Here is the full text of the traditional Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus prayer, commonly prayed over nine days seeking special graces:

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Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Most sweet Jesus,
whose Heart is the dwelling place of mercy and love,
I adore Thee and offer Thee my poor heart.

I repent with my whole heart for ever having offended Thee;
and I am deeply sorry for all my sins.

Make my heart a fit dwelling place for Thy love,
and a refuge of Thy glory.

Infuse into my heart a true spirit of sacrifice,
of love for Thee and for my neighbor;
and grant that I may never offend Thee more.

Assist me by Thy grace in all my needs,
in all my trials and sufferings of this life,
and may I love Thee more and more every day.

I consecrate to Thy Sacred Heart
my understanding, my will, and all my affections,
my thoughts, my words, and all my actions.

May my heart so closely unite with Thine
that I may never be separated from Thee.

O Heart of Jesus, fountain of life and holiness,
I place all my trust in Thee.

Grant me the grace
to be faithful to Thee until death,
and then to praise Thee in Heaven forever.

Amen.

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This novena is prayed for nine consecutive days, often with specific daily intentions, leading up to the Feast of the Sacred Heart or for personal petitions. It expresses adoration, contrition, consecration, and petition, drawing the soul into deeper union with Christ’s merciful love.

We are expanding the monthly Rosary in the Day Chapel to every week before the 10:30 am Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. At 10 am we will begin. Please join us. Of course, we encourage all parishioners to participate. Likewise, we encourage and are in need of weekly leaders for this devotion. Some of us Knights will get it started but, we’d very much like this to be a parishwide effort. If you would be willing to lead the recitation of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Day Chapel – contact Karrie Illner via email.

As Our Lady admonished the seers at Fatima, “Pray your Rosary every day.” We should listen to our Mother’s advice.

If you say the Rosary faithfully until death, I do assure you that, in spite of the gravity of your sins, you shall receive a never fading crown of glory. For even if you are now on the brink of damnation, even if you have one foot in hell, even if you have sold your soul to the devil…sooner or later you will be converted and will amend your life and save your soul. If—you say the Rosary devoutly every day of your life.

St. Louis de Montfort

If you would help us out by leading one Sunday, contact Karrie Illner via email. .

Below are the 15 Promises of the Virgin Mary to those who faithfully pray the Rosary:

• 1. To all those who shall pray my Rosary devoutly, I promise my special protection and great graces.
• 2. Those who shall persevere in the recitation of my Rosary will receive some special grace.
• 3. The Rosary will be a very powerful armor against hell; it will destroy vice, deliver from sin, and dispel heresy.
• 4. The Rosary will make virtue and good works flourish, and will obtain for souls the most abundant divine mercies. It will draw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities, and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means.
• 5. Those who trust themselves to me through the Rosary will not perish.
• 6. Whoever recites my Rosary devoutly reflecting on the mysteries, shall never be overwhelmed by misfortune. He will not experience the anger of God nor will he perish by an unprovided death. The sinner will be converted; the just will persevere in grace and merit eternal life.
• 7. Those truly devoted to my Rosary shall not die without the sacraments of the Church.
• 8. Those who are faithful to recite my Rosary shall have during their life and at their death the light of God and the plenitude of His graces and will share in the merits of the blessed.
• 9. I will deliver promptly from purgatory souls devoted to my Rosary.
• 10. True children of my Rosary will enjoy great glory in heaven.
• 11. By the recitation of the Rosary you shall obtain all that you ask of me.
• 12. To those who propagate my Rosary I promise aid in all their necessities.
• 13. I have obtained from my Son that all the members of the Rosary Confraternity shall have as their intercessors, in life and in death, the entire celestial court.
• 14. Those who recite my Rosary faithfully are my beloved children, the brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ.
• 15. Devotion to my Rosary is a special sign of predestination.

If you would help us out by leading one Sunday, contact Karrie Illner via email.

The teachings of the Catholic Church regarding the Rosary emphasize its significance as a powerful form of prayer, deeply rooted in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the mysteries of Christ.

Pope Leo XIII, in his encyclical Magnae Dei Matris (1892), highlights the Rosary as a means to contemplate the central mysteries of the Christian faith, including the Incarnation, the Passion, and the glory of Christ and Mary. He notes that through the Rosary, the faithful are brought closer to Mary, who is both the Mother of God and our Mother, allowing them to witness the unfolding of salvation history.

Pope John Paul II, in Rosarium Virginis Mariae (2002), describes the Rosary as a Christocentric prayer that invites the faithful to contemplate the beauty of Christ through the lens of Mary. He emphasizes that the Rosary is not only a Marian devotion but also a profound meditation on the Gospel, serving as a compendium of the faith3. The prayer is seen as a way to receive grace and deepen one’s relationship with Christ, facilitated by Mary’s intercession.

Furthermore, the Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy (2001) affirms the Rosary’s role as a biblically inspired prayer that encourages contemplation of the salvific events in Christ’s life, closely associated with Mary. It is characterized as a contemplative prayer that fosters a tranquil rhythm, allowing the faithful to meditate on the mysteries of the Lord’s life.

In summary, the Blessed Virgin Mary, through the teachings of the Church, encourages the faithful to pray the Rosary as a means of deepening their understanding of Christ’s life and mission, while also experiencing her maternal care and intercession. The Rosary serves as a spiritual journey that leads to a greater appreciation of the mysteries of faith and a closer relationship with both Christ and Mary.

If you would help us out by leading one Sunday, contact Karrie Illner via email. .

Chaplain’s Report – January 2024

We all do this at some level, right? When the new year comes, we make commitments or resolutions to change our life. We resolve to lose weight, to do something new, or any other hope or desire that we have. And, it is well documented now, that many of these resolutions come and go by the time February arrives.

Our renewal as Knights of Columbus is not tied to the change of a calendar, but rather to moments of sacredness Through water and fire, we are claimed by Jesus Christ in our baptism and then are confirmed and sealed in that faith through the Holy Spirit in our confirmation. In marriage, man and woman become one and they are changed. The sacrament of Reconciliation is a sacred moment to receive God’s forgiveness and absolution, where we are called over and over to be renewed and we recommit to our Gospel way of life. And our sacramental life is fulfilled at the altar of the Lord, where the Eucharist is the renewable sacrament of baptism, where we affirm that Christ is Lord with our reception of the Eucharist and our response of “Amen.”

As your chaplain and brother knight, I want to not only challenge you, but also accompany you in this year to grow in your relationship to Jesus Christ and His Church. The calendar that our worthy Grand Knight John Swan put together has already highlighted a few events that you can attend, but throughout this year, there will be other opportunities to personally enrich your faith. Br. Steve Kropp is committed to working with us at Capuchin Retreat Center to provide a day of pilgrimage to the Solanus Casey Center. During Lent, we will provide a meal and reflection on Wednesday evenings. I am committed to providing accessible opportunities, along with some unique ones, to grow deeper in your faith. This is something we’re called to do as Knights, as Catholics, and as brothers of Jesus Christ. It doesn’t have to be because it’s a new year, it can be just because we need to experience that renewal in ourselves.

At the time of Pentecost, Peter preached to the people about the glory of Jesus Christ and his promise of salvation. The first chapter of the Acts of the Apostles is St. Peter’s evangelization, after being filled with the Holy Spirit.

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the holy Spirit. For the promise is made to you and to your children and to all those far off, whomever the Lord our God will call.”

“Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”

With 2024 upon us, and it being another year where we need to remain close to God in the midst of everything that is happening in our world, we have the opportunity to not merely make a resolution but to be moved towards conversion once again. Personally, I am working this year to be more available to offer the sacraments in Arabic. Your goals don’t have to be as lofty, but they should stretch you and mold you into a better Catholic and a better man for the world.

Together, we can bring in the new year by building up the best versions of ourselves, united with Christ.

Sincerely Yours in Christ

Fr. Vito Martinez, OFM Cap.
Director – Capuchin Retreat Center
Chaplain, Council #7018

It’s safe to say, Santa does not disappoint. I think this year was busier than previous years. Thanks to Santa and all the parents who brought their kids. I heard a few ask for puppies… so, prepare for that!

Well, it’s official, we know how to throw a great party.