Thursday, 24 May 2018

A Battle for the Faith Two Short Stories - Theresa Linden and John Paul Wohlscheid

A Battle for the Faith:
Two Short Stories
Theresa Linden
John Paul Wohlscheid
ISBN 9781311212504
ASIN B019QTQIH4


 I make no bones about being a huge fan of Theresa Linden's writings. I have read these two short stories a few times now. I read them first right after reading her novel Roland West, Loner. And this volume served as my introduction to the writings of John Paul Wohlscheid, and I do plan on reading more of his works soon. You cannot beat the price on the eBook edition of this set of two short stories. The stories are:

 A Matter of Silence By Theresa Linden 
A Matter of Action by John Paul Wohlscheid

 In the introduction Andrew L. Smith states: 
"While I readily admit that many things in life bring me great pleasure and delight - God and family being at the top of that list - I find extreme pleasure in fantasy literature, such as Lord of the Rings and The Narnia Chronicles, as well as in seeing my former students do well in life and in academic pursuits. These latter two elements are combined in the work of my former student John Paul Wohlscheid, along with his friend Theresa Linden, in their stories "A Matter of Silence" and "A Matter of Action", which combine to form their exciting tale A Battle for the Faith. 
One of the things that makes a story outstanding is that it depicts longstanding and eternal struggles in new and exciting ways. This is what Linden and Wohlscheid have done."
And I completely agree. The first story is about the sin of omission. The leaders of the people were not strong in standing against an approaching evil, and by the time they would stand it led to war. Lodir the leader of one of the tribes states: 
"May you be blessed with leaders who refuse to remain silent in the face of evil. Fight well, my friend. The Fathers gaze down upon you with joy."
And so the torch is passed. But only after the silence of good men had caused much harm. The second story continues shortly after the first. There is a slight difference in feel as the authorship changes. In the second story Bortamen implores:
""I am asking for this holy war because we are not just fighting a battle against a mortal enemy of this world. It is far more than that. We are fighting a spiritual battle against unseen forces that are just as important and just as deadly as any mortal enemy. Unless we rise to this challenge now, we will have no hope of defeating defeating the evil that faces us at a later date. Our Fathers, who passed the Faith on to us, died and suffered great torment to protect and spread that Faith. How can we, who have the fullness of that Faith, fail to do the same? My people and the Dawn People have already shed our blood to protect that Faith. All I ask is for your help, your aid and your prayers. Together, united in Faith, there is no one who can defeat us, but separated into many different factions, we will be slaughtered like sheep."
He is trying to rouse the council from the city of virtue to action. The two stories are really one. And to be honest I would love to see more set in this place and time. They fit very well together; and are a very enjoyable read. In some ways it read like a cross between a tale of William Wallace and some of the battles in C.S. Lewis's Narnia. A couple of great short stories available for an excellent price so why not check them out.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by Theresa Linden:
Tortured Soul
...

Chasing Liberty Series:
01 Chasing Liberty
02 Testing Liberty
03 Fight For Liberty
Bound to find Freedom - Short Story
...

West brothers Series:
Roland West Loner
Life-Changing Love
Battle for His Soul
Standing Strong
Roland West Outcast
Fire Starters
...
...

Armour of God Series:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Boot of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
…

Armor of God Series Second Edition:

Other Books:
A Symbol of Hope - Short Story
A Battle for the Faith (with John Paul Wohlscheid)
...

Books contributed to:
Image and Likeness: Literary Reflections on the Theology of the Body
Secrets: Visible & Invisible 7 Amazing Stories - Catholic Teen Books
Gifts Visible & Invisible 8 Christmas Stories for Teens
Treasures: Visible & Invisible 8 Stories for Teens
...


 Books by John Paul Wohlscheid:
Letters Home
Fire in the Night
A Battle for the Faith
Church Triumphant

 Benny Cahill Series:
Don't Look a Gift Horse in the Mouth
Trouble is My Client

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Wednesday, 23 May 2018

The Story of Knock - Alice Curtayne

The Story of Knock
Alice Curtayne
Scapular Press (1956)


I have become fascinated with the writings of Alice Curtayne. I first encountered the writings of Alice Curtayne through her book Twenty Tales of Irish Saints, I was immediately captivated by her writing style and her style as a hagiographer. Not since working through all the works of J.F. Powers for an independent reading course have I been so desperate to build a complete collection of an authors works. Only two of her books are still in print in North America, and many never had imprinting's here. Finding her books has not been easy. I have been scouring online libraries and book stores trying to track them down. And that was after trying to get them through inter library loans. I have been able to track down 10 of her works to date and have read 6 of them. And of those 6 I have read each of them at least twice through. But each time I lay my hands on one I am grateful for it. And this one is no exception to that rule.

 This volume is a little history of the Our Lady of Knock apparitions, the devotion to Knock, and the shrine. There are 16 pages of text, in a little booklet style track. The print is very small to allow for the compact nature. The original cost of this booklet was $0.25 when it was printed in 1956 and I paid almost 100 times that in order to track it down, and it was worth every penny. There are a number of black and white photos interspersed with the text some half page some full page. The cover does not even contain the authors name. 

 Being of Irish Catholic descent I have had a knowledge of and devotion to our Lady of Knock since high school. But I did not know much about the apparition or devotion before reading this booklet. There is so much information in such a small volume. I read this through twice, and then read it again with my son, who is 10. We both loved the booklet and want to read more about Knock because of this booklet. 

 Curtayne does an amazing job of presenting the history of the appearance and also analyzing it. She is impartial in weighing the arguments and presenting the facts. This is a wonderful little booklet. I wish it was still in print or available as an eBook there are so many I would recommend this book to. As mentioned laying your hands upon Alice's works, especially in North America is not an easy task, but everything I have read is excellent. This booklet is wonderful, it was worth tracking down and if you can lay your hands on it I give it top marks. 

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!






Books and Booklets by Alice Curtayne:
A Recall to Dante
Francis Ledwidge: A Life of the Poet
Lough Derg: St. Patrick's Purgatory
Patrick Sarsfield
Saint Anthony of Padua
St. Bernard Doctor of The Church 1933

Books Edited by Alice Curtayne:
The Complete works of Francis Ledwidge
...

Books Translated by Alice Curtayne:
Labours in the Vineyard by Giovanni Papin
...

Books Contributed to by Alice Curtayne:
...
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Tuesday, 22 May 2018

Fight for Liberty - Theresa Linden - Chasing Liberty Book 3

Fight for Liberty
Chasing Liberty Book 3
Theresa Linden
Silver Fire Publishing
ISBN 9780996816885
eISBN 9781311608383
ASIN B01H9EC6IS


 I discovered the writings of Theresa Linden about a year ago. In that time I have read 10 novels, or published short stories and 2 anthologies that she has contributed to. Each and every piece I have read by her is excellent. All of her novels I have read have garnered a 5/5 stars. In an earlier review I compared Linden's writings to those of Madeleine L'Engle and Lois Lowry. I stated: "If we were to do a direct comparison between L'Engle and Linden then the Chasing Liberty Series would be the Kairos series and the West Brothers would be the Chronos series. And in many ways Liberty reminds me of Meg Murry in many ways, but in a much more dystopian future. And if we were to compare Chasing Liberty to Lois Lowry's writings it is much like The Giver, except with a clear-cut Christian under pinning. And from what I have read both series are wonderfully written." And after reading this third novel in this trilogy I would insist that even more so. This is an excellent conclusion to the trilogy, and an incredible read. 

 This book is dystopian with out being depressing. It deals with many questions around freedom, what it means to really be free. It should also serve as a startling wake up call for us today. I loved the discover of history in this book, both by Liberty, but also by Dr. Supero, once one of the regimen's most favored sons, he has fallen far, but in that fall has also started asking some questions. He started research to prove that the regime was good for people, and the population controls made sense. But his eyes are opened as he gains access to locked files and secret agenda's. 

 One of the greatest strengths of Linden's writing is the characters. The characters in this book, this series are amazing. From Liberty a young woman who is learning what true freedom is, and what we should be willing to sacrifice for true freedom. We also have Dedrick, a young man who has risked his life saving and serving others for almost 4 years, who is in love with Liberty, and is very conflicted by her desire to join the Mosheh. Then we have Dr. Supero a many who has lost almost everything he believes in. he saved his life but is now being blackmailed and controlled in ways he does not appreciate or understand. 

 This book is a first-rate read and part of a brilliant series. It has amazing characters, a fast paced plot, and a very intriguing and sobering story. But it will leave you hoping that the story continues in some fashion. Maybe another series, an off-shoot stories, or short stories. Something so that readers can return to this world and find out how it changes after these events. This book is a great read for early teens through to adult readers. Linden has become one of my all time favorite authors this series and the West brothers Series are masterfully written! And I recommend it and the whole series to all who are looking for a great read!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by Theresa Linden:
Tortured Soul
...

Chasing Liberty Series:
01 Chasing Liberty
02 Testing Liberty
03 Fight For Liberty
Bound to find Freedom - Short Story
...

West brothers Series:
Roland West Loner
Life-Changing Love
Battle for His Soul
Standing Strong
Roland West Outcast
Fire Starters
...
...

Armour of God Series:
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Boot of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit
…

Armor of God Series Second Edition:

Other Books:
A Symbol of Hope - Short Story
A Battle for the Faith (with John Paul Wohlscheid)
...

Books contributed to:
Image and Likeness: Literary Reflections on the Theology of the Body
Secrets: Visible & Invisible 7 Amazing Stories - Catholic Teen Books
Gifts Visible & Invisible 8 Christmas Stories for Teens
Treasures: Visible & Invisible 8 Stories for Teens
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Monday, 21 May 2018

Prayer of the Day An Altar Servers Prayer


Altar Servers Prayer

To be Christ's page at the altar,
To serve Him freely there,
Where even angels falter,
Bowed low in reverent prayer.
To touch the throne most holy,
To hand the gifts for the feast.
To see Him meekly, lowly,
Descend at the word of the priest.
To hear man's poor petition,
To sound the silvery bell,
When he in sweet submission,
Comes down with us to dwell.
No grander mission surely
Could saints or men enjoy:
No heart should love more purely,
Than yours who serve with joy.
God bless you child forever,
And keep you in his care.
And guard you that you never
Belie the robes you wear.
For white bespeaks untainted
A heart both tried and true:
And red tells love the sainted
And holy martyrs knew.
Throughout your life, then, endeavor
God's graces to do right;
And be in heart forever
God's witness and God's knight


I came across this prayer in the documentation that was handed over when i took over altar server formation. There was a prayer booklet created at our parish for altar servers many years ago. I really like this prayer and wanted to share it. I wonder if this prayer is part of the reason our parish switched from black to red cassocks for the younger alter servers. And will share others as time goes on. With a hat tip to the Canadian Rosary Brigade. Below is a picture of another prayer we have up in the sacristy. 




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Sunday, 20 May 2018

Pentecost Sunday 2018 A Reflection

Pentecost Sunday 2018

 The readings for this weekend's mass are:

 First Reading Acts 2:1-11
Responsorial Psalm 104: 1, 24, 29-21, 34 Response 30
Second Reading 1Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13 or Galatians 5: 16-25
Gospel John 20:19-23 or John 15: 26,27 16:12-15

 I believe this celebration is one that does not get the focus that it should. Aside from Christmas, and Easter this is one of the most important events in the history of the Church. At Pentecost the followers of Jesus were touched by the Holy Spirit. And a new day in the church began. The disciples were energized and began preaching. And People heard them in their own language. I have done many studies on the Gifts of the Spirit; from both Catholic sources and evangelical. I have lead bible studies on the gifts and fruits of the spirit going back 30 years to my time at Queen's and 20 years ago at the University of Waterloo. 

 A few weeks ago, at church a friend at church invited me to a different Parish for a Life in the Spirit group. I had done that course on a vocations weekend over 30 years ago. There is nothing so divisive as interpretations of spiritual gifts and their use today. In Catholic, evangelical, and mainline protestant churches. The debate over what the Holy Spirit can and does do today is nearly endless. I have seen incredible things at Steubenville, at Promise Keepers, and in small groups on university campus. I have seen healings, and also others wait 30 years and are still hopeful for healing. 

 This Sunday we are reminded that we are anointed with the Holy Spirit at baptism, confirmation, and during the sacrament of Holy Orders. The Same spirit that performed miracles in the bible, is accessible to us today. I am thankful that I am a member of the Catholic Church that is open to miracles but does not believe they are required. I am thankful that Catholic church is open to the modern use of the gifts of the spirit but does not expect that everyone will speak in tongues. I am thankful we celebrate Pentecost and remember what has happened before, and what can happen again.

 And I pray come Holy Spirit come!


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Saturday, 19 May 2018

Prayer to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

Prayer to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

 Blessed Pier Giorgio, you taught me how to lead
an unselfish life and to keep those who suffer
close to my heart. You had good times with your
friends and you really enjoyed sports. But you
always kept God and love and kindness to others 
as your highest priorities.

Help me when I try to imitate you and I
Stumble. Help me when I lose my grip in trying
to climb always closer to God.

I want to be an apostle of Jesus just like you.
Amen.

 This past year I read two books about Pier Giorgio, both were excellent reads and inspired me. This Prayer comes from this book in the Encounter the Saints Series:

 Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati 
Journey to the Summit
Encounter the Saints Series Book 18
Susan Helen Wallace 
Ray Morelli (Illustrator)
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819811653


The Other was this one:

Blessed Pier Giorgio FrassatiAn Ordinary Christian
Maria Amata Di Lorenzo
Robert Ventresca (Translator)
Pauline Books and Media
ISBN 9780819811622


I highly recommend both books and praying this prayer!

Book about Pier Giorgio Frassati:


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Friday, 18 May 2018

Prayer of the Day Saint Padre Pio Prayer when Blue

Padre Pio Prayer when Blue

Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have you present so that I do not forget you. You know how easily I abandon you.
Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak, and I need your strength, so that I may not fall so often.
Stay with me, Lord, for you are my life, and without you, I am without fervor.
Stay with me, Lord, for you are my light, and without you, I am in darkness.
Stay with me, Lord, to show me your will.
Stay with me, Lord, so that I hear your voice and follow you.
Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love you very much, and always be in your company.
Stay with me, Lord, if you wish me to be faithful to you.
Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is, I want it to be a place of consolation for you, a nest of love.?Amen.

~St. Pio of Pietrelcina


 I have a number of friends who have struggled with depression, and even had my own blue seasons. I keep coming cross variations on this prayer from numerous sources. This one come from Aleteia.
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