50 Ways Week 5

The 5th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical on the environment,  Laudato Si, is May 24.  Check out these activities (they begin May 16 - today) to learn more about the encyclical and caring for creation.

 

 St. Isidore is the patron of farmers.  You can learn about him here, and here is a link to the Catholic Rural Life website.

Looking for a film for this weekend?  Here are some suggestions.

May 14 is St. Matthias Day.   Matthias was chosen by the Apostles to take the place of Judas. You can learn more about him here and here.

Here are a few different Sunday resources for you to prepare for weekend Masses.

RCL Benzinger offers this resource, geared to families with school age children.



 

In the Church calendar, May 13 is set aside for Our Lady of Fatima. 
 You can learn more about the Fatima story here.   
Franciscan Media's Saint of the Day provides a succinct version here.

Formed.org, our free 24/7 faith formation resource, offers many films on Our Lady of Fatima.  You can find a list here.

Today's psalm is Psalm 145 for which the refrain is: 
 Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.  



We certainly consider ourselves friends of the Lord, but in what ways to we share the glorious splendor of God's kingdom with others?  This video talks about Catholic evangelization.

Father Michael Joncas, author of the hymn "On Eagle's Wings" has written a new hymn for our times: Shelter Me.  Here's an interview with him about it.  Listen here.



 

Have you checked out formed.org lately?  New programs are added frequently.

Looking for the answers to our Saintly Mothers quiz?  Find them here.

In this version, click on the pictures to learn more about each saint.

Where do you see God?   This short exercise helps us see God in unexpected ways.

Happy Mother's Day! 



Here is a blessing you can use at home with your mother:

God of abounding love, as a mother gives life and nourishment to her children, So, too, you watch over and care for your people.   We ask you to bless with your deep and all-encompassing care  all our mothers, those with us here today, those we hold in our hearts, and all women who have been nurturing examples of a mother’s love.

Strengthen them as Christian mothers so that they may always be examples of your love and peace. As they experience the joys and sorrows of motherhood,  we ask you to guide and comfort them. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth for all to see.
Grant that we, their sons and daughters and family members  may honor them always with a spirit of profound respect.   Amen.