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World at Prayer blog
Reflections of Family and Faith
"The family that prays together stays together." - Venerable Patrick Peyton
Holy lives of inspiration | Why pray?
Thomas Merton, a great Trappist monk, is one of those people whose life exemplifies how a seemingly isolated monastic existence could still become powerful for global connection and spiritual insight. He embodied the idea that deep contemplation could lead to profound engagement with the world’s struggles, rather than withdrawal from them. Through his spiritual insights, shared from his monastic setting, he influenced many spiritual seekers worldwide. He highlighted that true spiritual life involves connecting with God through our daily experiences, rather than separating from the world. In today’s Gospel reading, we have Jesus who had spent time preaching and feeding the crowds, sending his disciples off across the Lake while he took some time to pray, to be in communion with God the Father. No sooner had the disciples set off than a turbulent storm struck the sea of Galilee. They were gripped with fear for their lives despite being experienced fishermen. For Jesus, although he was not with them in the boat, he nonetheless was aware of their struggles. Prayer did not remove him from the disciples. While in prayer, he perceived their trouble and decided to come to their rescue.
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Father Peyton | Jim Caviezel | PRAY
PRAY: THE STORY OF PATRICK PEYTON, the inspiring and entertaining documentary on the life of Venerable Patrick Peyton, the priest who conquered Hollywood and originated the phrase "the family that prays together stays together," is coming to EWTN. The film airs live on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Before that, on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, PRAY producers Megan Harrington and Father David Guffey, C.S.C., join host Father Mitch Pacwa on EWTN Live to give a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film.
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Brief and contemporary inspiration focused on hope and family prayer will be delivered to your inbox! Articles include live video, written word, and links to resources that will lead you and your family deeper into faith.
Blessed Basil Moreau | Catholic
Did you know that January is "Holy Cross Heritage Month" here in the United States? The inaugural Holy Cross Heritage Month was launched last year by the Congregation of Holy Cross’ U.S. Province of Priests and Brothers to celebrate the incredible family of Holy Cross, a family of which Holy Cross Family Ministries is a proud member and an important part. From local parishes to missions and schools around the globe, the Congregation of Holy Cross has built an incredible legacy of faith, hope, and service over its nearly two-hundred-year history. But beyond the beautiful schools and universities (with some pretty outstanding football programs — Go Irish!), the vibrant parishes, and the diverse ministries serving the needy around the world, you might be wondering: what exactly is the Congregation of Holy Cross, and what is the story behind the heritage we’re celebrating?
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Learn more about our faith | Why pray?
Saint Brother André Bessette for me represents a towering witness to the efficacy and power of prayer. The efficacy of prayer arising from a wounded soul, of prayer confident of God’s Providence, of prayer offered for the good of others, of prayer leading to the salvation of souls, of prayer united to the heavenly family of Joseph, Mary and Jesus. Alfred Bessette’s family profoundly shaped his spirituality. Tragedy struck young Alfred, the future Brother André, early, with the death of his father when Alfred was just nine years old, followed by his sweet mother's passing three years later. Orphaned and alone, he experienced firsthand the pain of loss and vulnerability.
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Celebrating family life | Saint Andre Bessette | spiritual lessons
Caitlan Rangel shares lessons in humility learned from the example of St. André Bessette. I recently realized I had been listening to a lie: You can’t become a saint like this. You’re just a mom. As a woman who writes and reflects on how our vocation as parents leads us along the path of holiness, I was shocked that I could be so deceived. When I shared this with my confessor, he shepherded me back to the simple truth that my ego loves to forget. He said, “Caitlan, we are called to become little.” My ego is repulsed by humility—You can only become a saint if people know who you are. The hiddenness of your life isn’t doing real work for the Kingdom. You’re not doing enough.
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Father Peyton | family prayer | how to pray the rosary | rosary novena
Does your family need a miracle? Join our Novena for Father Peyton's intercession (January 9 to 17) for your family —celebrating the Anniversary of Venerable Patrick Peyton’s birth.
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