World at Prayer blog
Reflections of Family and Faith
"The family that prays together stays together." - Venerable Patrick Peyton
Easter season | Learn more about our faith
Dear Friends, Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen indeed! Alleluia! What a joy to keep experiencing the Risen Lord all around us this week, and realize that during the Octave of Easter all creation is charged with the 'Grandeur of God,' as Hopkins put it.
Share
Imagine what Lazarus is experiencing, brought back to life by Jesus from four days in the tomb. What overflowing gratitude must have filled his whole being. Now, with Jesus in their home in Bethany, what is he thinking as he sees how the presence of Jesus fill not only his heart, but Mary’s heart, filled with joy and gratitude for restoring her brother to life, as well as restoring her soul to grace.
Share
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.
One sunny day in September 1972, a plainly dressed man stood on a street corner in downtown Chicago. As pedestrians hurried by, he would solemnly lift his right arm, point to a passing stranger nearby, and loudly repeat one single word: GUILTY! Then he stood quietly for a minute. Then again, he raised his arm, pointed to another stranger, and again pronounced the one word: GUILTY!
Share
Friends, all Lent is divided into two parts. The message running throughout the first three-and one-half weeks is a call to Gospel conversion, through prayer, fasting and almsgiving, through mutual forgiveness, love of enemies, a call to lead holy lives. The emphasis is on the ethical and moral. The failure of the workers in the vineyard, the call to treat others as we would like to be treated, are central. The Gospel readings are from Matthew, Mark, and Luke. By the midpoint of Lent, we all realize that we can not do this alone.
Share
In 1973, Tony Orlando recorded the song, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon ‘Round The Old Oak Tree.” It became the number one hit record for the year, became Tony Orlando’s theme song and grew into an American anthem of hope and homecoming. We have used it (and its yellow ribbon symbol) to welcome home soldiers, POW’s, MIA’s, Iran hostages, and lost children.
Share
O Mary, Mother of God, and our Mother, in this hour of violence and war we come to implore your help. You are truly our Mother, you love us, and you know us: nothing that we care about is hidden from you. Mother of mercy, often we have experienced your maternal tenderness along with your warm presence filling us with peace. We beg you to guide us always to Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Share