Photina

Photina
n., An issue of water from the earth; a spring; a fountain. v.intr., To rise to the surface, ready to flow; to rise or surge from an inner source. v.tr., To pour forth. adj., In a satisfactory condition; right or proper. interj., Used to introduce a remark, resume a narrative, or fill a pause during conversation; used to express surprise.dictionary.com

Saturday, September 13, 2003

Today is the feast day of St. John Chrysostom, monk, bishop, and Doctor of the Church.

Some of his writing is available for online reading, including many of his letters, liturgical works, and sermons.

One of the works of St. John Chrysostom that I particularly like I have never been able to find the text of online: namely, his writing On Marriage and Family Life.

St. John Chrysostom, who wrote and preached in the mid to late 4th century, was a contemporary of St. Augustine. His name in Greek means "Golden mouth." He was given this name because of his eloquence in preaching. In this book, On Marriage and Family Life, St. John covers such things as the complementary roles of husband and wife, the place of Christian love in the home, how a wedding reception should be conducted with the glory of Christ in mind, and for those contemplating the married life, there is great wisdom in "How to Choose a Wife." A book that will enrich the home and provide much needed biblical guidance for family life.

posted by Heidi | 13.9.03

Friday, September 12, 2003

Today the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of the Holy Name of Mary.

An appropriate book for today is 100 Names of Mary: Stories and Prayers, by Anthony Chiffolo.

Mary, the Mother of Jesus, has come to be known by many names--from Advocate and Ark of the Covenant to Theotokos (God-Bearer) and Virgin of Tenderness--reflecting her many different qualities. This book is a beautiful tribute to Mary that explores these different devotional titles. Chiffolo provides "Her Story," a traditional prayer, and a new prayer for each of the 100 names. Readers also will find an inspiring new litany of Mary. 100 Names of Mary is a work of beauty, faith, and truth and will inspire all who meditate upon it.

posted by Heidi | 12.9.03

Thursday, September 11, 2003

Today is Patroit Day in the United States of America; the U.S. State Department had a September 11, 2001 Commemoration today.

Father Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R., released a book, The Cross at Ground Zero, dealing both with the events of September 11, 2001, and with the problem of pain and suffering in general.

"Millions of Americans gazed in disbelief as the magnificent World Trade Center buildings collapsed into piles of rubble on September 11, 2001. After the shock and horror wore off, the questions began.

"Where was God on 9/11?"

"How could this have happened?"

"Why did God allow such evil?"

And then, the daunting thought - Where will God be when I need Him?

"Father Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R., addresses all these questions in his new book, The Cross at Ground Zero. He reassures us that the iron cross found at the World Trade Center leads to the cross of Jesus, which stands at the center of all pain, all suffering, indeed all history. He explains that Jesus did not come to take away suffering; He came to sanctify suffering by His presence. He was at Ground Zero in the World Trade Center. He will be with you in your own personal Ground Zero, whether it is the death of a child, a cancer diagnosis, the loss of a job."

posted by Heidi | 11.9.03

Monday, September 08, 2003

Today is the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, that is, Mary's birthday.

In honor of this feast, I've selected Bishop Fulton Sheen's book, The World's First Love: Mary, Mother of God.

According to Christianbook.com:
"Sheen presents a moving, eloquent portrayal of Mary. Combining profound spirituality, history, and theology, Mary's whole life is lovingly portrayed in this never failing source of information, consolation and inspiration."

You can read an excerpt from the book or check out the table of contents.

posted by Heidi | 8.9.03