Last week...

I'm in my final seven days. I've adjusted the date I'm leaving to probably the 5th, I've got some loose ends to tie up, I need to speak to the bishop before I go about WYD, there was some stuff that went down that was inappropriate, and then to Centrelink about getting set up. I should have done it today, but I keep putting it off, I really hate that music they play!

I got the nicest letter from my favourite priest the other day saying goodbye. I got a little teary, which was embarrassing in front of my friend and her family! He gave me a $30 iTunes card too, which was nice. I've been working on goodbye letters to the priests today. I drove me nuts! I decided to hand write them (despite my terrible handwriting!) on really nice paper, and I kept stuffing it up. I wasted so much paper, but it's a labour of love. So make sure it was straight I put my lamp under my glass desk and a piece of lined paper underneath the nice paper. It was very helpful. I also put a Catholic sticker on each. I'm pretty proud of how they ended up. Now I just have to finish the pictures...one and bit to go!

Christmas

Lunch time!

Well, I had an interesting Christmas. Mum and I visited the bat hospital up the coast. Mum is a wildlife carer, her latest passion is fruit bats, they are really cute and very social animals. I had a couple try to grab on to me for a hug, Mum had about three climbing up her arm at one point. I also got to sit with one of the resident cockatoos, he's partly bald, he doesn't even have a crest. Poor little guy had beak and feather disease. He's re-growing the feathers though, and he loves pats. He lays his little head on your lap and lets you stroke him. He's such a cutie!


I went to four Masses over Christmas, and sung at two. Both the midnight Masses. There was one at the Carmelite's for the nuns at 9pm. It was a bit improv, because it was just a little choir, my friend, her family and me. It was fun though. Midnight Mass was back up in the choir loft at the Cathedral. We had a really cheesy responsory psalm, sung by a woman who insists singing like an opera singer....a bad opera singer. My friend's sister started laughing, and I had to look down to recompose myself, thankfully I was up the back! Our amazing bishop brought up abortion, homosexuality and contraception during his homily. It was fun to watch the women in front squirm. The 6pm Mass was aweful, all the submarine Catholics emerged and the Cathedral was stuffed, I was lucky to get a pew, I saw the regular Catholics pushed to the side pews that are used for Confession.. It was a bit awkward being the only one not using a 'cheat sheet' for the responses. I just wish the Cathedral was usually that full. At the Christmas morning Mass the bishop told us about how their used to be more than one Mass on Christmas morning. I was glad to be up the front, my Mum, friend and I lead the responses and postures, which was kinda fun.

Yesterday I slept pretty much all day. I feel so refreshed!

Cat android

I'm glad to see Data is a cat person/android too ^_^

Merry Christmas!

I'm 50 minutes late >.>

I'm off to bed, but I'll tell you about my day tomorrow :D

New desktop...

Ruben's is my favourite artist. I love how every one of his paintings was an action scene, the movement is always so beautiful. I also really like his women, not very graceful, always a little chubby, but with beautiful curves. He was also Catholic, which is always a plus.

I've picked a new desktop, the Assumption.

I really love the look on John's face in particular. All the other Apostles are freaking out, but he just has an expression of silent awe, and I think acceptance... "Oh course the Lord would do that."

Pope pictures

I want to have a picture of the Pope for when I move, just coz I love him so much ^_^. I want a not-so-official-looking one, one where he looks happy. I was thinking this one.

Awww

Or maybe...

More packing...

I've all covered in dust and feeling slightly creeped out by how may spiders there are under my bed (one....that I can see >.>). I found some really cool pictures I drew, and most importantly my baptism certificate and some photos, just as proof that I'm Catholic I suppose.

God creating Adam

Random picture I did when I was living on my own a couple of years ago...it was actually a big jump forward in my technique.

My baptism certificate...the decoration is a little cheesy and modern, but it does say "fed with the body and blood of Christ', nothing watered down!

A lady who moved from my parish ages ago took this for me, I'm so blessed that she did, none of the other photos are this clear.

Christmas preparations

Today was busy, especially since I got up so late. I've been making chocolate, ginger and almond parcels for my friends and the priests. Wrapping them. Running out of wrapping paper. Finishing off the Next Generation series. Working on Fr Nicolas' going-away gift. Plotting my Mum's present and staring at my dress which still needs to be finished. This has been my most stressful Christmas and inbetween it all I've been vowing to be more organised next year.

However, most importantly, I've been making more time to pray. I've kinda sucked at it, not praying mornings most days and forgetting the Angelus at noon. This is the first year that I've really put effort into maintaining the 'little Lent' that Advent is supposed to be. It was only towards the end of Advent last year when I found out that it was supposed to be a solemn time, with that sense of waiting. Although, I can feel that wave society experiences this time of year which peaks at Christmas. While it's not a solemn feeling, I think it helps with that sense of the sacred when the world pauses during Christmas.

So...much...art!

I've been doing a lot of art lately. It's challenging when I have to do a lot at the same time. I did a picture of Our Lady for my friend's Mum who's looked after me a lot this year, she's my favourite advice giver ^_^ The other is for the bishop, my going-away present to him.

Baby-sitting

I'm baby-sitting my 20-year-old friend and her family this week, so you might not hear much from me.

I'm having such a fun time so far. They have five children....well, teenagers...and I really feel apart of the family. It's a bit chaotic at times, and the amount of times I've had to say "do the washing up!" in the first day alone is a bit dauntnig. It's been really interesting seeing a large Catholic family from the inside. On every wall there are pictures of Jesus and Our Lady, including a huge icon in the living room, and pro-life stickers everywhere. I've had to safe-guard my food in case they eat it. I'm fussy about breakfast and love my yogurt and fruit in the morning. Most of the day the boys are down the paddock or off on their motorbikes, so they aren't a problem.

I'd love to be a mother with lots of the children someday, and I think this week will test that desire. However, I prayed for my future husband seriously for the first time at Mass this morning. I've never done it before because I could never really see me having one for some reason. I kind of paused mid-prayer remembering this, but I thought "Well, Jesus will use my prayer for someone else if I don't have one."

So far it's been pretty easy, with only a few little arguments (my poor friend is such a stress head!) Now I just have to get my iPod back somehow!

2nd Rite of Reconcilation

I only recently found out that 2nd rite is not chronological >.> I always thought it had something to do with the liturgical year and how far along we were.

I really like 2nd rite, it's a nice way to mediate on the greater meaning of confession before the act itself, and I also like seeing a lot of priests in one place. We didn't have many parishioners last night, but it was still nice to have something in the cathedral. They also play elevator-style music of the Kyrie through the speakers, which is kind of hilarious.

This will probably be one of the last times I receive the sacrament of confession in this parish, which makes this one a little sad.

Merry Christmas from WoW

This looked very out of place >.>

Caroling

I went caroling for the first time the other day, I've never done it before. We went to a nursing home with some women front he local library and a number of young Catholics. My singing teacher played the piano, her mother; the violin and my other friend her guitar. We had not practiced at all, so we were just making it up as we went along, it made me a little nervous, and when I'm nervous the edges of my mouth (which unfornuately is what I'm usually using in these moments) starts to twitch, which adds embarrassment to the nerves!

I've never been to a nursing home without visiting a relative. I'm so bad at talking to old people because they're usually deaf or not-all-there and I really don't know what to say half the time lol! One of my friends works in a nursing home, so it was interesting to watch her interact, she's so gentle too. Mum says to just patter on to them. My friend's mum said it took her while to know what to do, it just seems to take practice really.

I'm glad I got to do a good deed this Christmas ^_^

Allelujia - Magnus Dominum

Ages ago, before I knew was Gregorian Chant was about, my Dad brought me "The best Gregorian Chant Album in the WOrld...ever". I listen to my iTunes on shuffle so it comes up occasionally. I just heard the Allelujia - Magnus Dominum. Wow! It's so beautiful, the way it flows reminds me of waves lapping on the shore. I found the score for it too.

It reminded me of how beauty draws us to the truth. Because I found it so beautiful, I had to look it up (or find the truth!) and traslate it. "Lord is great and greatly to be praised in the city of God in the holy mount." I know...Google translate :P I couldn't help but imagine it being sung in heaven, and desiring heaven that little bit more, so I think that's the goodness bit.

At the moment, I'm watching Mum being drawn to the Church by it's beauty. She even admitted today, in her own way, that she agrees with the Church's stance on women priests. I'm so overjoyed for her, I really hope this is the doorway that she steps through to find the goodness and truth within.

Three Weeks Left...

Wow! I feel nervous...It began yesterday when Mum brought home boxes for moving. It's gnawing in my stomach and I took me a while to get to sleep last night thinking about everything I have to do.

Vestal Morons:- Star Wars and the History of Vatican II

One of my friends shared this on facebook. It is hilarious and educational all at once. It disturbs me how perfect the analogies are too...almost like George Lucas wrote Star Wars as a metaphor for Vatican II...hmmm >.>

http://vestalmorons.wordpress.com/2011/12/04/star-wars-and-the-history-of-vatican-ii/

Going-away Gifts

I'm drawing some pictures for my two priests and bishop. They've done so much for me over the last few years that I just wanted to thank them. I think the letters that I write will take a few weeks to write.

For my bishop I'm doing a drawing of Christ the Priest in an Traditional Mass (maniple and all!). For my priest, the one who has been so supportive with the youth ministry, I'm doing a picture of St Augustine, because he did his master's thesis on him. It has been the most frustrating! His figure turned out too tall and the boarder has been difficult to finish, but I'm getting close. For my other priest I'm doing a picture of Our Lady holding Baby Jesus with the verse "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." Luke 2:13. I've been praying over them, but I need to pray a bit more frequently I think.

While I was looking for idea's for St Augustine's border I found this really good graph of crosses. They even have names.

Practice Pack

After that long weekend, and an 18 hour sleep, I've had a little practice packing the car. I should be able to fit eight 55L plastic boxes in the back, which is great because I thought it would be three or four at the most!

Here is my room, and all the stuff I have to pack up, Excuse the messiness >.>

The 1st Profession and Ordinations

Sunday is really a day of rest for me, particularly after the last few days! I’ll separate these into sections, because otherwise it’s a little complicated and long-winged (more-so than usual).

The 1st Profession

I was a little nervous before the Mass, but my choir director was the most out of all of us. Poor thing had to put up with me asking stupid questions. I watched the family of the sister-to-be come in from the parlour. I noticed a couple looked upset and even a little confused. They aren’t Catholic and I just tried to imagine how puzzled they must be about this woman who has so much potential sacrificing it all to God, marrying a Man they’d never seen and will never meet in this life.

Our choir

There were five priests concelebrating, with our youngest priest leading it. The Kyrie went well, the drones sounding good (even after my friend had to negotiate with one who tried to tell her what the traditional way usually was). I was one of only three sopranos who sung the responsorial psalm. I prayed to Jesus all the way through, in that wordless way where it comes as a soft cry from the heart, begging Him I wouldn’t stuff it up. Our Lord listened and granted me that favour, it sounded beautiful! Father asked the sister what she wished of the Church and she answered, I loved the great “thanks be to God” the congregation responds with. The main tenor, (who we had imported from Sydney) sung a different Alleluia and my friend shot him daggers. It turned out later he had made a legitimate accident.

My priest gave a passionate homily about technology and the need for the contemplative orders. Then the sister professed in the most joyful tone her desire. I nearly started crying, I really hope for that joy one day. Father then handed her the constitution of the Carmelite order and a small wooden cross through the little door on the sanctuary.

The O, Sanctissima sounded great with me out of it, although I almost felt like joining in because I still love the hymn. Our Ubi Caritas was great, especially with the very talented tenor singing parts.

Afterwards, I went with Mum and saw the sister in the parlour. I hadn’t been able to see her the whole Mass because of where I had been sitting, she was wearing a wreath of white flowers. They turned out to be real, and the smell was beautiful.

In-between Time

After morning tea I set off home to cook chocolate, almond and ginger parcels and a flourless chocolate cake for the ordinations. I went in for a quick Centrelink appointment  (with a very nice woman for once!) I then went downtown to find some new bling.

While there I ran into a friend, we had a great chat and this is really where I noticed the Holy Spirit moving. We had some awkwardness between us since WYD, which had been a kind of negative spiritual experience for both of us. She apologised for being angry with me and I apologised for how blunt I can be sometimes. We both forgave each other. To confront this I think was a big challenge for her because she is so gentle and kind and she hates conflict, but I really feel like the Holy Spirit filled her with courage (and how could He not? She so faithful to Him and Holy Mother Church and she had obviously prayed hard about it). He helped me forgive and apologise myself. It also gave her an opportunity to debrief about WYD, which I think she’d really needed to do.

After we caught up with some of the seminarians for lunch. I love watching them joke around with each other, they are truly like brothers, even across cultures. Many are Filipino, but our Australian and Australian-Polish ones joke and tease just as much.

Ordination

I was very lucky because I got to sit up the front for this one. We had all our cantors for this one, including a professional singer, who has done opera. She sung Ave Maria, hitting the high notes so clearly. I want that voice! I didn’t get teary for this Mass, I sat there making the occasional comment to a new friend of mine, who sings for the Traditional Latin Mass in Sydney. She told me about how the tradition of the corporals being wrapped around the hands of each priest, was from the old rite, and later, how they are given to the priests mothers who have them wrapped around their hands when buried so they can show God the great sacrifice they gave for Him.

Laying on of hands.

My favourite part was the Kiss of Peace, where all the priest go in for that group-hug, starting with the bishop. He couldn’t have looked prouder! One of the newly ordained really got into it, and laughs rang out from all over the Cathedral as he bear-hugged one of his closest brother priests.

I think I stood for most of those two hours, my legs ached, but I didn’t want to miss a moment. It was a bit awkward when our parish administrator thanked the choir and I was still standing, and most of the church could see me. I just resisted the temptation to wave.

Afterwards I ran into so many people I knew and I was on such a high. The Filipino community laid out a huge spread. I made sure get my first blessings, include in a group of my friends, there was about ten of us. It was a truly wonderful night, I only got home at 12, and I had to get up for the next morning at 6am for the first Masses.

First Masses

I ended up being dragged into singing for the earliest Mass. It wasn’t so bad, but I really didn’t care as much as the day before. My friend was helping direct, a lot of the music being the same as yesterday. The Kyrie was slightly stuffed up, but nobody really minded, herself included who gave us an ‘oh, well’ look.

I went to the next two, one down in the cathedral, the other half-an-hour away. I didn’t receive the Eucharist for either because of I was so tired and not in the right-mind for it. The next morning I had to get up for the Saturday morning Mass, celebrated by one of the new priests.

Again, the Holy Spirit moved. Mum got a blessing for the new priest. She really got up her courage, because she felt like she was intruding. She got a little teary, I tried not to as I prayed looking directly at the tabernacle and asking Jesus to watch over her specifically. She felt a little embarrassed as she needed help up, but I really feel it was the Holy Spirit sitting heavily on her shoulders. Mum has come to every Mass over the last few days. I’m so pleased. All the graces from the Mass no doubt have washed over her, and it always helps when the person you’re praying for is right there.

Institution of the Acolytes

Two of my friends from the seminary were instituted as acolytes at this morning’s Mass. Afterwards I got to speak to the bishop finally about quitting altar-serving. He was quietly supportive, especially as I said I’d like to an all-male sanctuary, but thanked me for my help, even saying that the girls are very good and ‘always show up with clean fingernails’.  Mum also spoke to him, he had trouble remembering her at first, but she re-introduced herself and mentioned she wasn’t Catholic. He told her not to worry at all and that she was more than welcome. I’d actually prayed that he would do that if she had to opportunity to speak to him! Once again, that beautiful Spirit of God, that Love of the Father and Son, has been rushing through our lives!

The bishop wanted me to take pictures, which was a little nerve-wracking, I always get nervous around him anyway, in case I say/do something utterly stupid. But despite my shaking hands, I got some good shots.This is my favourite.

Dress Update: Almost Finished!

Well, I'm almost finished. I spent the day at my friend's place getting her mothers advice (because even Mum was feeling lost!) and finishing it off.

It was interesting using another sewing machine. Their

machine was harder to set, but I really liked the pedal, it was a lot more sensitive, so when I needed to slow down, it really slowed down! I also managed to break their iron when I accidentally dropped it onto the stone around their fireplace. It's bottom actually cracked! I've decided they're getting a new one for Christmas.

It sucks I didn't get it finished for the big day tomorrow, but I already had a back-up dress, and I think I might be more comfortable in it anyway. Rather than worrying about whether my work will be judged or whether it's falling apart as I move around ;) A little more time to work on something is always a good thing.

Back panels

Bodice with straps

Close-up of the straps

Almost there!

Eve of The Ordinations and Profession

As I write it's a cold and rainy night (in the height of summer!) and I'm snuggled up in my bed. Today I spent nearly the whole day out of the house and in the Catholic community. I can really feel the excitement level rising! Priests, seminarians and lay people are beginning to arrive. One girl who has come up to fill a soloist role in our cathedral choir mentioned she recognised several Catholics, including a priest, on her flight alone.

Stress levels are rising too. Our choir director at the cathedral was very tense, hard not to be with all the divas around! One woman behind me wouldn't stop with the passive-aggressive comments, and the terrible singing (as if she was in her death-bed) in my ear. However, the real highlight was the arrival of our male cantor who practiced a communion verse, and did it so beautifully my skin broke out in goosebumps. It was a take on the Magnificant, but tailored for a male voice, and he was angelic! I was amazed that the four young people thee, including him, spent their time practicing and the over 50s wouldn't stop whinging. I really hope we stay like this as we get older so we can just get on with the worship of our Father and Creator, rather than turning it into an ego-fest!

My poor friend (and other choir director) is stressed as well. She keeps having nightmares about the choir going terribly wrong (always due to some people who don't turn up for practice). She's really been banging her head against a wall trying to deal with them. Tomorrow she's going to be asking for an explanation for why they weren't there for the final practice, which really stuffed us around because we couldn't practice the drone for the Kyrie. On top of all this the organ she's used to working with has broken last minute, so we may have to do a lot of it unaccompanied. Oh, pray for us, St Cecilia!

I really can't wait for tomorrow! I'm going to record the Masses and I'll see if I can put up the highlights. It should be spectacular!

New Marist Window

So, I'm going to Sunday morning Mass regularly at the Cathedral now. I watched the servers and felt a little sad, I must admit, that I wasn't up there helping, but I was glad it was an all-male sanctuary. I reminded myself that this was my little cross and I prayed briefly for their vocations.

Yesterday there was a big gathering of Marist brothers for a new window in the Cathedral celebrating there 100 years presence in the diocese. I know it's terrible, but I don't buy that the Marist brothers look after the poor anymore, the local school (which they own in conjunction with the parish) is private and very wealthy. A vast majority of the children there don't come to Mass on a Sunday, the Cathedral would be packed with a lot more young people than I see there on a Sunday, and I'm constantly hearing about how anti-Catholic many of them are, along with many of the teachers. The Marist brother who got up to present the window to the bishop spoke about helping the youth, and I just sat there and remembered how empty the youth group is, and how wealthy many of the youth who go there are.

I'm sorry, but wealthy children are not marginised!

Blessing the window.

At least blessing was beautiful, the prayer was quite vivid. When the bishop had done his thing, he and all the brothers sung Salve Regina, it sounded beautiful, especially with just male voices.

Afterwards, I caught up with my baptism/confirmation sponsor, who is one of the brothers. I didn't even know he was coming down. A couple of years ago he moved up to Emerald, after 13 years here, for some sort of missionary work. It turns out they're finished up there and he's moving down to Sydney as well, so hopefully I'll run into him again. He's a lovely man, with a very good heart, espeically for the poor.

That's the thing that makes me sad about the Marists, individually they are lovely people, but somehow as a group they've lost their way a bit. I don't see any refuges for the poor run by them, it's all business now. I must remember to pray for them, becasue they have the capacity to be such a good force, especially as the 'little brothers" of Mary.

Parish Family Picnic

One of our priests organises a parish family picnic regularly. Yesterday we went down to the beach. It was a small gathering, probably because of the weather, but it was fun, and we even had the local priest, who used to serve my parish show up, it was so good to see him again. He's from Nigeria originally, at first he had a little trouble with English, and I think the culture too, he mentioned how passionate the Nigerian people are about their faith. But he's such a friendly person and he seems to be settling in nicely.

Me and my friend's brother watching cricket.

A couple of people went down to the river in kayaks. Most of us went over and played cricket. I sat and watched with a friend and chatted because cricket is even more boring to play. My friend then set up a game of ultimate frisbee, I actually got up and played, mainly because I didn't want to have to exercise later. I'm glad I did, I forgot how fun sport can be, and my team actually won. I had problems catching, especially since my pants were loose >.>...but it was lots of fun. I actually have a blood-blister on my foot, so I think that's evidence! I was so exhausted last night I just collapsed into bed, and still didn't get up for 7am Mass, I really need to fix that!

Another St Francis de Sales Prayer

 It's so heartfelt ^.^

Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life;
rather, look to them with full hope that as they arise,
God, whose very own you are,
will lead you safely through all things;
and when you cannot stand it,
God will carry you in His arms.

Do not fear what may happen tomorrow;
the same understanding Father who cares for
you today will take care of you then and every day.

He will either shield you from suffering
or will give you unfailing strength to bear it.
Be at peace, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.

Awesome!

I love this Presbyterian church, it's good to see some loud and proud humour. They change it every week too. Maybe I should lobby our parish for a similar sign, but more Catholic orientated like "Transubstantiation - change we can believe in!" ( I stole that from here by the way)

Forbidden fruit creates many jams.

Near-final Practice

This is one our last practices before the ordination night. We're sounding pretty good. I was having problems with "Veni Creator Spiritus", but I feel a lot more confident in the choir, I just need to practice the Latin and placement of the words (it seems a little random sometimes).

The team

Altar Serving

I forgot to mention, my last day of altar serving was last Sunday. I was glad it was over, it really hit me that that was the last time, but I was happy to just be able to relax and take in the Mass in future. It was a bit of a disaster, we lost our priest a couple of minutes before Mass and we made a few other mistakes, and so I'm definitely not tempted to go back.

The priest in charge of training servers was very supportive too. I'm glad it ended so well. I'll continue to pray for the servers too, that this becomes a vocation for them

Litany of St Francis de Sales

I have two confirmation saints, coz I'm greedy and stuff...One is St Clare of Assisi, my Dad chose her name for me when I thought I was going to be Confirmed in the Catholic primary school I went to. The other is St Francis de Sales, patron of writers, and I love to write so i wanted him to look over me. My name is Francis Clare, at first it was going to be Clare Francis but I decided against it (I actually rang up my priest less than a week before my baptism to change it lol!). It was funny that night because I was the only one who chose a Confirmation name (all the other candidates were much older and probably didn't see it as necessary). Thankfully I was the first one called up so I probably didn't stick out too much. I chose both saints because my Dad and I had been having a fight just up to a couple of weeks before my baptism, he wasn't even going to come (he lives 700kms away from me anyway), and I decided after we made up I wanted to honour him in some way.

Anyway, I found this litany the other day. St Francis De Sales is a fairly obscure saint (I can't find a metal of him) so I'm really pleased he at least a litany!

Litany of St. Francis de Sales

Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.
O God, the Father of heaven, have mercy on us.
O God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
O God, the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us
O Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.

St. Francis de Sales, Pray for us.
St. Francis, miracle of the most august Trinity, Pray for us.
St. Francis, faithful imitator of Jesus Christ, Pray for us.
St. Francis, attached to the the service of the Blessed Virgin, Pray for us.
St. Francis, practicing the virtues of the Saints, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most devote to Jesus crucified, Pray for us.
St. Francis, august tabernacle of true religion, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most humble in prosperity, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most patient in adversity, Pray for us.
St. Francis, true portrait of the meekness of Christ, Pray for us.
St. Francis, simple as the dove, Pray for us.
St. Francis, example of angelic modesty, Pray for us.
St. Francis, exact observer of evangelic poverty, Pray for us.
St. Francis, excellent example of the purity of angels, Pray for us.
St. Francis, ever obedient to the Apostolic See, Pray for us.
St. Francis, generously despising the world, Pray for us.
St. Francis, powerful vanquisher of demons, Pray for us.
St. Francis, invincible triumpher over the flesh, Pray for us.
St. Francis, inflamed with the love of God, Pray for us.
St. Francis, abounding in virtues, Pray for us.
St. Francis, all to all for the salvation of souls, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most dear to God, and beloved by men, Pray for us.
St. Francis, unwearied apostle of Geneva and its territory, Pray for us.
which thou didst so laboriously reunite to the one true Church of God, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most fervent pastor, ever careful to lead thy flock to the fold of Jesus the Good Shepherd, Pray for us.
St. Francis, most renowned for thy miracles, Pray for us.
St. Francis, greatest of all thy miracles, Pray for us.
St. Francis, patriarch of the Visitation, Pray for us.
St. Francis, continual martyr to thy love of God, Pray for us.
St. Francis, father of many Saints, by the holy rules which thou hast left for every state, Pray for us.
St. Francis, powerful protector to obtain of God that mildness which preserves the peace of the heart, Pray for us.
St. Francis, amiable patron of those who invoke thee, Pray for us.

Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world, Hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us, O Lord.

O Blessed Francis, like the fruitful olive-tree in the house of God, radiant in miracles, make us partakers of thy sanctity and of the light which thou enjoyest.

V. Pray for us, Blessed Francis of Sales.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:
O God, by whose gracious will the Blessed Francis, thy confessor and bishop, became all things unto all men, for the saving of their souls, mercifully grant that, being filled with the sweetness of thy love, we may, through the guidance of his counsels, and by the aid of his merits, attain unto the joys of life everlasting. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

Singing

As I've mentioned, I'm singing in a couple of choirs at the moment. It's been interesting and challenging because I'm new to both singing and the Catholic Church (I was baptised in 2009), so I'm not very familiar with a lot of even basic hymns. It's especially awkward when everyone knows "Salve Regina" off by heart and you still have your head buried in the sheet music.

I'm involved in two choirs on the same day. The first is for the First Profession of one of our young Carmelite Nuns. We'll be chanting the "Cum Jubilo" setting (as it's the feast of the Immaculate Conception), and the entrance and communion antiphons and then singing "Ubi Cartias" and "O Sanctissima" by Kevin Allen. It's separated into three parts and I'll be in the alto section. My very talented friend/singing teacher is directing it, she's been very helpful, I feel a lot less lost when she's around.

The other choir is for the Cathedral and we'll be singing for the ordinations of three men into the priesthood that night. I can't wait! We're going to par-tay! But the music for it is beautiful also, a lot of Marian hymns, like "Immaculate Mary" and "Sing to Mary" (my favourite) and the usual ordination hymns, such as "Tu Es Sacredos" and "O God of All Creation". It's funny because I recognised "O God of all Creation" from Holst's Planets Suite, rather than as a hymn.The only I really don't like about it is the choir loft politics. You've got a couple of people who have been there for decades and can't really sing properly anyway, but then they turn into divas (loud divas!) just because they've been there for ages. Then there's the old ladies who who all sing like opera-singers, therefore you can't hear the words of sacred prayers, properly. Even worse, there's the people who bad-mouth the bishop loudly, that annoys me the most because he does the best liturgy and I think they resent having to actually work harder, which is essentially working for the worship of God.

Other than all that I've been having a great time and learning so much. I can't wait for the big night!

Nerd Alert!

Okay, I'm a super big nerd, the most defining reason is because I watch Star Trek and love it! I'm slowly working my way through Star Trek: The Next Generation, which I seriously think is the best series of the lot (although I haven't seen the original series).

Today, while I was procrastinating an assignment, I watched the first episode of Season 2. I was amazed how much it had inproved, the camera work is a lot better, and especially the special effect. There was one scene where Wesley and Guiana (played by the awesome Whoopie Goldberg!) were standing in ten-forward (the bar) and looked out down onto a planet. as the scene progresses the Enterprise turns and the planet moves out of view, then they head into Warp. It was really beautiful, and really added an element of realism, or as real as space travel can get.

As much as I love Star Trek, some of the morality is a bit off, particularly regarding sexuality, thankfully the gay agenda isn't brought in as far as I see, I suppose because it was before the homosexual movement gained the momentum it has today. Today they also touched on abortion, as Councilor Troi was pregnant with an unknown entity who's intent they didn't know. Thankfully she looked at the ultrasound images and changed her mind (how else would the story progress if she had just killed it, I suppose >.>).

I think the thing I find most suspicious is the fact that Earth has apparently found world-peace and everyone has given up the pursuit of material goods and all other forms of greed and oppression. This of course means that all of mankind has found a common philosophy. Seemingly atheistic, as there is no mention of a God as seen through the current world's religions.

I wonder where the Catholic Church stands at this time...

There seemed to have been collapse of society during the 21st century as during one episode you see the cretion of Warp technology, which seems to help humanity rise of the ashes and into exploration of the universe. It would be interesting to se where the universe of Star Trek places the Church and other religions in this. I have a feeling however it's probably along the lines of humanity "out-growing" religion, which was "primitive".

But despite the subtle anti-God/organised religion, Star Trek has a basic concept of good and evil, or the secular view of it, a kind of positivism, I suppose. But it really is a fun program and the writing is excellent, very few cringe worthy lines and as the actors developed (particularly Troi) they have just gotten better and better.

Also, the women are actually noteworthy characters. Often women just turn out to be unrelatable in movies and television shows, but in Star Trek they are each really individual, but all very likable. Troi is so feminine and loving, Dr Crusher is very heroic in a still feminine way, and is very serious about the Hippocratic Oath. Tasha Yar with her troubled pass was more masculine, but still distinctly female, even if hesitant about showing it. Best of all, they make mistakes like real women! That's what I want to see in these stories. Not this perfect version of a woman who is always in the right and is a complete smart-aleck about it, but one who feels, makes the wrong decision, even while aiming for the good, true and beautiful!

Just look at the cutness!

My favorite character is Data, the android who wants desperately to be human. He's so cute!! Just look at him! Today, he was trying to be the daddy in the delivery room and he was just so cute about how he went about it! Asking too many questions about the birthing process from the mother, getting worried as the baby started to come and so awestruck after the birth finished.

So you'll probably see some more updates about it. I'm just warning you now!

Defending the Faith

I think I know why God let me pass my driving test.

I got into a discussion with a friend tonight about gay marriage and a few other related issues. Thankfully I had a champagne cocktail about a half-an-hour earlier, so I was pretty relaxed and able to answer questions without getting too stressed. Like most people ,I really feel uncomfortable discussing this stuff, I get a pickling under my skin because of the social awkwardness and also the fact that I'm disagreeing with a friend on a deep belief, which Society tells us is wrong because everyone is allowed to do whatever they like *sigh*. It was interesting the misconceptions she had about the Church, particularly about annulments, even though she's grown up in it, in Poland of all places!

For the first time in a long time I actuallly felt like I was on an equal footing with the person I was debating though. I think that's what really put me off it in the past (since I usually just change the subject), I have a feeling that I either got into a debate where I couldn't answer some question, or I've feared being into that position. It always helps when you say a quick "Help me!!!" prayer to the Holy Spirit, which is what I try to do.

The worst thing I think it walking away thinking about all the things I could have said. However, as I've been reflected I think God has only put the words on my mouth that I need to say, and the other stuff was either irrelevant, would have backfired or possibly would have fallen on deaf ears. So I trust that God has gotten me the say what I needed to. I also walked away really wishing I'd had a boyfriend at the time to back me up. The friends I was with tonight form two couples, and this particular friend's husband backed her up, a little. I felt a little sad that I was by myself in the debate and I have no one to debrief with afterwards and give me some reassurance. But I suppose that's part of my little martyrdom tonight.

Thanks St Martin

I thought in order to thank St Martin properly I'd pray a litany to him.

Lord, have mercy. Christ have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy.
Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us,
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, Pray for us.
St. Martin, ever in the presence of God, Pray for us.
St. Martin, faithful servant of Christ, Pray for us.
St. Martin, lover of the Holy Eucharist, Pray for us.
St. Martin, devoted to our Blessed Mother, Pray for us.
St. Martin, spiritual patron of Americans, Pray for us.
St. Martin, raised from the depths to a heavenly mansion, Pray for us.
St. Martin, honored son of Saint Dominic, Pray for us.
St. Martin, lover of the Most Holy Rosary, Pray for us.
St. Martin, apostle of mercy, Pray for us.
St. Martin, winged minister of charity, Pray for us.
St. Martin, miraculously conveyed to far-distant lands, Pray for us.
St. Martin, freed from the barriers of time and space, Pray for us.
St. Martin, seeking the conversion of sinners, Pray for us.
St. Martin, protector of the tempted and repentant, Pray for us.
St. Martin, helper of souls in doubt and darkness, Pray for us.
St. Martin, compassionate to the sorrowful and afflicted, Pray for us.
St. Martin, consoler of the discouraged and unfortunate, Pray for us.
St. Martin, peacemaker in all discords, Pray for us.
St. Martin, touched by all suffering, Pray for us.
St. Martin, comforter of the sick and dying, Pray for us.
St. Martin, angel to hospitals and prisons, Pray for us.
St. Martin, worker of miraculous cures, Pray for us.
St. Martin, guardian of the homeless child, Pray for us.
St. Martin, humbly hiding God-given powers, Pray for us.
St. Martin, devoted to holy poverty, Pray for us.
St. Martin, model of obedience, Pray for us.
St. Martin, lover of heroic penance, Pray for us.
St. Martin, strong in self-denial, Pray for us.
St. Martin, performing menial tasks with holy ardor, Pray for us.
St. Martin, gifted with prophecy, Pray for us.
St. Martin, symbol of interracial brotherhood, Pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, Saint Martin, R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray: O God, the exalter of the humble, Who didst make Saint Martin, Thy confessor, to enter the heavenly Kingdom, grant through his merits and intercession that we may so follow the example of his humility on earth as to deserve to be exalted with him in Heaven, through Christ Our Lord. Amen. 

Found here.

Passed!

Yeah, I can't believe it either!

I'm SO glad I read the handbook (or a least the summaries) and a lot of the computer test (where you have to touch the screen when you turn right or slow down) was from my P2 test.It was funny because computer test actually won't pass you if you were over-cautious. There was one practice question where there was a truck in front, and another on the side and I know that in real life I would slow down because it made me nervous. I'm glad they at least have those practice tests, and the multiple-choice was fairly easy, if you study a little.

I'm so happy, now I can have a glass of wine while I'm out tonight with my friends and teach my other friends to drive.

Praise God, and thank you St Martin!

DQT

Yup, off for my license today. Not exactly looking forward to it especially since I haven't studied much (stupid friends and awesome weekends + assignments).

Found a really great prayer actually I'll be saying:

Prayer to Saint Martin for a Driving Test

Saint Martin, I come to you for help and blessing as I prepare to be tested for fitness to drive. Help me to know thoroughly the rules of the road so that no one will ever suffer from my negligence or incompetence. May I be ready for the test prescribed by law. By your prayers may I deserve to be granted a license and may I never abuse the trust that is placed in me. May all of us so behave that deaths and injuries on our roads will no longer sadden our daily lives. We make our prayer through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Sewing My Dress

The pattern I'm using.

For the last few weeks I've been sewing a dress on and off. Well, more off than on. I've just started back on it today. I was a bit put off because have two days of hard work I ruined the bodice by stitching the hem the wrong way. I kept missing the tiny hem in little places and the material (which is actually very pretty and falls really beautifully) was very frayed by this time. I was so frustrated because I'm learning all of this at the same time from Mum.

She's been so helpful. I have a really basic background for a term of textiles I did in school, so some of how to use the sewing machine is coming back. I wish I had continued it in high school, but, like my drawing, it was an interest I only developed later when I was ready to start taking my hobbies more seriously, and if I had, I would have never been able to learn off my own mother and spend lots of quality time with her!

The material, Rayon.

Today, we're back at it. Mum's decided to interlock the bodice and it's lining so it's less likely to fray. I think it's also taken us a long time to get back to because Mum has a "bad relationship" with her inter-locker lol! Also, sewing is one of those things you need to sit down and spend half your day doing and, because Mum is teaching me, we need to both be available. It's actually really relaxing, like drawing, you get back to basics, away from the media and it's something you have to focus on, so I find it really clears my mind.

I'm hoping to finish the dress by the 8th, when we have the Profession of one of the Carmelite Nuns and the Ordinations of three of our seminarians. I'm singing in the choir for both so it would be cool to sing and party afterwards in my pretty new dress ^_^

Driving Test

I've booked in on Tuesday for my final test, the DQT (Driver's Qualification Test, or black license). I'm not exactly looking forward to dealing with the always painful RTA and taking another one their redundant tests (where a 2D computer screen supposedly displays a real life driving situation accurately), but I'm going to read the handbook properly and really try to pass this one the first go (it took me three goes for Ls and two for Ps, not including the RTA screwing me around the first time over incomplete paperwork). Afterall, I've put my own money into this for the first time and if I pass it that day I can have a drink that night at trivia with my friends, two great sources of motivation!

Driver's focus at each speed

The handbook has been actually kind of interesting so far. There's some interesting little facts such as:

"Sitting in the driving seat of a stationary car, most drivers have about a 180 degree field of vision. However, once you start moving, this field narrows. The faster you drive, the narrower it gets. At 100 km/h it has narrowed to only 50 degrees – less than one third of what you could see when you were stationary!"

Also the stuff on alcohol is useful...except they use a 63kg woman as an example, let's just say I'm not exactly 63kgs >.>

Hopefully I'll actually pass. I wonder who the patron saint of driving tests is...?

Litany of St. Cecilia

Super cool! (from the Chant Cafe)

Litany of St. Cecilia
 
Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.

God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, Have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, wise virgin, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, whose heart burned with the fire of Divine love, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, apostle by thy zeal and charity, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who converted thy spouse and procured for him the crown of Martyrdom, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who by thy pleadings moved the hearts of pagans, and brought them into the true Church,
Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who didst unceasingly see thy guardian Angel by thy side, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who didst mingle thy voice with the celestial harmonies of the virgins, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who by thy melodious accents celebrated the praises of Jesus, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, illustrious Martyr of Jesus Christ, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, who during three days dist suffer most excruciating torments, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, consolation of the afflicted, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, protectress of all who invoke thee, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, patroness of holy canticles, Pray for us.
Saint Cecilia, special patroness and advocate of all singers, musicians, authors, and students, Pray for us.

We salute thee, O Virgin, who didst give thy blood for the defense and faith of Jesus Christ.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

God glorified Saint Cecilia,
And He crowned her virtues.

Let us pray: O Eternal God, Who didst give us, in the person of Saint Cecilia, a powerful protectress, grant that after having faithfully passed our days, like herself, in innocence and holiness, we may one day attain the land of beatitude, where in concert with her, we may praise Thee and bless Thee forevermore in eternity. Amen.

Adoration and the Scriptures

We had Adoration focused on praying for the Holy Souls in Purgatory last night for youth group. It was good to get away from the world for a little while, it always centres me. Unfortunately, we were a little unorganised...well I was. My friend (and fellow youth group leader) brought and organised the songs, despite being busy with end-of-year assignments, and our priest organised a couple of prayers, even though the Parish Administrator is away and he'd be ridiculously busy...I was supposed to bring more...but that didn't happen >.> I need to be more organised!

Ignatius Bible (my bible)

At Adoration I read the first 15 chapters of Isiah. It was so fascinating. It seemed to ramble, but I reminded myself that it has a literary style, so it tends to go on and on. But imaginary was beautiful and that really kept my attention. I need to read the rest of it soon.

I've gotten into reading the Old Testament lately, I've read Jonah and Ruth so far. I found Jonah a little difficult to understand, particularly the last bit where he's sitting under the gourd. However, I looked it up at the Catholic Encyclopedia, which really cleared it up. It's also interesting that the Church regards it as historically accurate. I loved Ruth, it was such a beautiful story! She is such an example of a good woman too, especially since she followed her mother-in-law and looked after her out of duty but also love.

It's interesting how many Catholic haven't read the whole Bible. But I suppose it's because we have Tradition too (here's an interesting article by the epic Jimmy Akin). But it's a good leaping off point. I want to read the entire bible, just to get a more holistic idea of God, in particular Our Lord, and God's relationship with the human race... New Years resolution anyone?

WoW!

Had my first WoW session today. It was so much fun. My friend took me through several different worlds and we battled all these different creatures. Because we have a linked account we've been upgrading our xp at triple the rate, so we update our weapons and spells a lot quicker. Here's me at the inn waiting for my friend to make lunch in real life!

It was pretty awesome, but my brain feel like it's been sucked out through my eye-sockets! I need a break from the computer I think.

Why Homosexuality Is So Widely Accepted

Found this article by Mark Shea over at the National Catholic Register. Really interesting...

http://www.ncregister.com/blog/a-question-from-a-reader

Meme Your Feelings

Another frustrating experience a certain government agency. I got angry, so I made a meme.

I feel so much better now ^_^

By the way...

Here's the 1st episode to get you hooked.

I blame my brother...

I've been a brony for a while, but I only just relapsed the other day and started watching Season 2 the other day. My brother introduced it to me before he'd even watched it himself, he'd just seen the brony community explode on the internet.

For further info on bronies click here.

Amazing how you don't remember how much you loved something until you experience it again! Each episode is such a cute little, rather unique story and ends with a nice little lesson about friendship like you should take a friend's worries seriously even if they may appear trivial at the time and everyone has hidden talents that they can find with patience and diligence. The animation is so pretty too. It's creator Lauren Faust is responsible for The Powerpuff Girls and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, which are both just awesome!

Because of the bronies the show has become really participative too. So whenever fans have an issue on the internet the show responds. Like clearing up Princess Celestia's name, because she's done some seemingly stupid things, for example

Click for episode!

I love the universe too. Like how the ponies each have a 'cutie mark' on their flank which shows their special talent. Twilight Sparkle has a magic symbol because she studies it and Rarity has diamonds because when she's not making dresses she collects gems. They aren't born with a cutie mark either, it comes later in life, like puberty I suppose. Those little rules of a world can really make a story.

I also loooove the memes.

No more iPod (fetal position pending)

I had to send my baby off for repairs today. I already miss it! D:

At least I had a nice walk through town today. It was 30 minutes of incidental walking (my nutritionist will be proud) and I ran into a couple who want to know where my awesome Angry Birds shirt came from (free advertising for Jay Jays). Then I ran into Tom (my hairdresser) on the way back to my car. I was so surprised he remember my name...or I wonder if he just assigns them to the hairstyles he does...but he looked me over, and checked the back of it. "So, you did the right thing?" He asked. I assured him that trusting him was a really good idea.

Today I also checked out World of Warcraft battle chests at a few different stores ($48 on averge 0_0). My friend has decided to start up a little troop to go into the world. He called me yeaterday (which was surprising because he hates phones...A LOT) just to confirm that my internet is as slow as I said (0.24 mbps download lol!). So, in order to play I'll have to go over to his, which is fine, he makes good food.

Now I just have to decide if I want to be a Blood Elf, Tauren or Troll...hmmm...