MyJoysComplete!

Is the Act of Oblation suited to allFirst let us distinguish the Act of Oblation in its perfect form as achieved by St. Thérèse. We say perfect because her offering clearly bore the mark of a vow of perpetual oblation. We are confronted with a new form of pledge to perfect Love, a pledge that will never be withdrawn and that undertakes especially to console the Heart of God.As opposed to this perfect and entire oblation we can imagine an offering which does not assume the maximum intensity and constancy of love. The soul will maintain such an offering according to its generosity and according to the grace of God which it may at first even disregard, later bravely correcting itself. Understood in this way, the Act of Oblation may be permitted to may souls and even to every soul, including the habitually sinful, from the moment that it is of goodwill. Naturally, it is taken for granted that such a soul is delicate enough to wish to console and compensate the Heart of God. This intention however is secondary, the essential thing being to desire to love and please God. St. Thérèse places these terms on the same level as “to console the Heart of Our Lord.” Therefore even the weak and imperfect will find a great means of spiritual progress in the Act of Oblation and in the relationship which it establishes between the soul should not be discouraged by their weakness, so let them listen to their holy Patroness: “My very weakness makes me dare to offer myself, O Jesus, as victim to Thy love.” And again, “The more weak and wretched we are, the better material do we make for His consuming and transfiguring fire. The simple desire to be a victim suffices, but we must consent to remain always poor and helpless, and here lies the difficulty. . . Let us love our littleness, let us be content to have no joy; then we shall be truly poor in spirit, and Jesus will come to seek us, however far off we may be. Then He will transform us into flames of love.”https://fsspx.asia/en/news/st-thereses-act-oblation-29945

Whoever flees prayer flees al that is good. Prayer toots us in goodness. Without it, we lose direction and strength

What is my relationship with angels and archangels?

We have forgotten a number of our prayers and reciting and praying these brought back memories. Hope you liked them.

There is a season for everything, a time for every occupation under heaven.Journal Prompt: How can I bring more order into those disordered areas of my life? What steps do I need to take?

We can and should push back, renouncing any evil influences we have allowed into our lives and commanding evil spirits to depart from us.The basics of spiritual warfare are actually quite simple: stop committing mortal sin and avoid the occult, both of which open our lives to the influence of the enemy. Instead, go to confession, pray every day, and live a sacramental life. Beyond that, we can offer prayers of deliverance to command demons to depart from us, sending them to Jesus to be judged by himhttps://www.denvercatholic.org/the-battle-is-real-a-guide-for-spiritual-warfare

Reflection Question: Am I trusting my resources or truly relying on God's daily provision? Carmel Light Publications

In order, therefore, that we may not fall into such severe tribulations, let us bow the neck of our mind to Christ the Saviour of all. Let us receive the Word of God and do it: for if our choice be so to act, He will crown us with lofty honours; for He is the distributor of the crowns; by Whom and with Whom to God the Father be praise and dominion with the Holy Ghost, for ever and ever, Amen.

Yes, no jewelled tiara bound around the head invests it with such glory, as an iron chain for Christ's sake. Then was the prison more glorious than palaces, yea, than heaven itself. Why say I than palaces? Because it contained a prisoner of Christ. Is there any that loveth Christ, he knows the dignity of this title, he knows what a virtue is this, he knows how great a boon he bestowed upon mankind, even this, to be bound for His sake. More glorious this, perhaps to be bound for His sake, than "to sit at His right hand," (Matt. xx: 21.) more august this, than to "sit upon the twelve thrones." (Matt. xix: 28.) http://www.documenta-catholica.eu/d_0345-0407%20Iohannes%20Chrysostomus%20%20Homilies%20on%20Ephesians%20-%20EN.pdf

Journal Prompt: In what ways am I :* as a man supporting the role of women in Church?* as a woman doing my part to make a difference?

How can I evangelize more intentionally in the places where I am present?

Don't be afraid of loving Mary too much - no matter how, you can never love Her more than Her Son does!

Journal Prompt:In what way is the Lord inviting me today to join Him in His journey to Calvary.Have I accepted or resisted the invitation to this Way of the Cross? What is my fear? Bare your soul to Our Lord!

Journal Prompt:In what ways am I contributing towards making Christ known in my life? Am I pleased with my own efforts? What else can I do intentionally to bring Christ into the world, through words, actions & deeds

The Inescapable God!

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches:“All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.” (CCC 1030)“This teaching is also based on the practice of prayer for the dead, already mentioned in Sacred Scripture: ‘Therefore Judas Maccabeus] made atonement for the dead, that they might be delivered from their sin.'” (CCC 1032)“From the beginning, the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God. The Church also commends almsgiving, indulgences, and works of penance undertaken on behalf of the dead:“Let us help and commemorate them. If Job's sons were purified by their father's sacrifice, why would we doubt that our offerings for the dead bring them some consolation? Let us not hesitate to help those who have died and to offer our prayers for them.” (CCC 1032)EWTN

Journal Prompt:In what ways can I be holier than now? What changes do I need to make in order to live a life as holy as some of the saints I know. Extra reading: Today read the life of a saint of your own choice and see in what ways you can adopt some patterns into your own life

Journal Prompt:* In what ways am I judging myself - my appearances, my performances and results, my achievements or the lack of it etc. How can step out of this and start putting on the garment of God in this area?

Journal Prompt:What is that one thing that is pressing on you today and giving you so much unrest resulting in worry and anxiety. Speak to the Lord about it and listen to what He is inviting you to do.

Journal Prompt:In what ways have I shown an improvement in my spiritual life and in what ways have I not? Examine the reasons for these and aim to take the necessary steps to re-purpose my life.

Journal PromptToday, what do I want to tell Jesus honestly about my relationship with Him. Write without the flowers and decoration - be raw, be honest and then write Jesus' response to you. Read what you wrote and respond in prayer

Journal Prompt:What areas in my life are still hard to let go and just let God! What are the main hindrances?

Today's Journal Prompt:* How can I be equipped better to correct the misconceptions about Christianity that I hear or read about? What steps need I take? How important is this to me in the first place?

Journal Question: If you chose to do the task now, even in the discomfort, what would you gain afterward that's worth the temporary frustration?https://imbusybeingawesome.com/journal-prompts-procrastination-avoidance/

The saint experienced a profound paradox: a physical and spiritual pain so intense it made her moan, coupled with a sweetness so immense she never wanted it to end. How do you react when spiritual growth or following God's will requires personal sacrifice or uncomfortable inner purification? AI Gen

How can I live out genuine faith with actions from a pure heart?Carmel Light

Reflection Questions: (Carmel Light)* How can I cultivate an attitude of honesty and openness in my relationship with God?* When did I last hear Jesus' soft prompting - go that to that moment and sit with me in prayer

Questions for reflection:What impact do you recognize in your body when you have festering resentment against someone?What messages about forgiveness did you grow up with? What do you think of those messages now?  How does the idea of letting go of a past harm make you feel? How could these feelings guide a journey of forgiveness?  https://faithlead.org/blog/spiritual-practices-for-forgiveness/

(AI Gen)Spotting Fishing for ComplimentsDo I point out my own flaws out loud so people will rush to tell me I am great?Do I say things like "I am terrible at this" just to hear someone say "No, you are amazing"?Am I secretly upset or annoyed when people do not argue with my self-criticism?Evaluating Your Hidden MotivesWhen I refuse a role or a task, am I protecting others or am I protecting my fear of failing?Do I praise others just so they will turn around and praise me back?Is my modesty a way to stay safe so no one expects big things from me?

Ask: How can I create an environment of listening and understanding? Act: Strive to correct others without humiliating themPray: Inspire me Lord to act in humility desiring the good of those who are mistaken. Amen- Keith Fernandez

Ask: Is there a grudge I'm holding onto that is a heavier burden than the forgiveness I've received? Act: Reach out to someone you have a strained relationship with and offer a word of peace. Pray: Lord, grant me the grace to forgive as I've been forgiven, freeing my heart from bitterness. Amen

Ask: What worldly pursuits hinder me from fully following Christ? Act: Surrender one personal ambition todayPray: Strengthen me Lord to bear my cross with courage. Amen

Reflection (Carmel Light)Ask: What wordly pursuits hinder me from fully following Christ?Act: Surrender one personal ambition today.Pray: Strengthen me Lord to bear my cross with courage. Amen

Reflection Questions: (Daily Carmel Light)Ask: Am I willing to keep my dialogue with Jesus even when His answers are not immediate or as I expect? Act: Identify those areas in life where humility and faith can be lived outPray: Merciful Lord, open my heart to the spirit of prayer. Amen

Reflection Questions: (AI Gen)What specific things pull your attention away or crowd your schedule so you forget to pray?Do you avoid prayer because you feel too tired, guilty, or out of practice?Is your prayer time deep and honest, or is it quick and surface-level?

Everyday Moments (AI Gen)What is one small, good thing that happened today?What sound, smell, or taste brought you comfort this week?What tool or item makes your daily life much easier?What part of your home do you love the most? Who made you smile or laugh recently?Who helped make your life easier this week?What quality in a close friend do you often forget to appreciate?Who is someone from your past that helped shape who you are today? RelationshipsWho made you smile or laugh recently?Who helped make your life easier this week?What quality in a close friend do you often forget to appreciate?Who is someone from your past that helped shape who you are today?

Try to hold both the frustration and the gratitude with equal intensity. Notice what happens. Most people find that one begins to overshadow the other.Intentionally deepen your focus on gratitude. Recall details, sensory experiences, and why this particular gift matters to you.Return attention to your initial worry. Has something shifted in your relationship to it? Not that it's disappeared, but has its hold on your attention changed?https://godinallthings.com/2025/03/24/the-first-virtue-st-ignatius-on-the-power-of-gratitude/

Try this exercise:Bring to mind a current frustration or worry. Notice its weight, its texture, how it feels in your body. Don't rush to change it—just observe it with gentle attention.Now, bring to mind something for which you feel genuinely grateful. Perhaps it's a relationship, a moment of beauty, or even simple provisions like shelter or clean water. Don't choose something abstract—focus on something specific and real in your life.Try to hold both the frustration and the gratitude with equal intensity. Notice what happens. Most people find that one begins to overshadow the other.https://godinallthings.com/2025/03/24/the-first-virtue-st-ignatius-on-the-power-of-gratitude/

“From the beginning, the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God. The Church also commends almsgiving, indulgences, and works of penance undertaken on behalf of the dead:“Let us help and commemorate them. If Job's sons were purified by their father's sacrifice, why would we doubt that our offerings for the dead bring them some consolation? Let us not hesitate to help those who have died and to offer our prayers for them.” (CCC 1032)

Some Journal Prompts from https://anxietyspecialistsofstl.com/journal-prompts-for-anxiety/What benefits would you experience if you were able to worry less? Is any part of you concerned that you might miss out on something if you worried less? Do you believe that worry helps you solve problems? If yes, what are some alternatives?Some people believe that worrying about a negative outcome will help to prepare them if something bad does happen. Does this apply to you? Why or why not? If yes, is there any evidence against that belief?https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/purpose-in-this-moment/

Personal Reflection (AI Gen)Are you longing for a solution, or are you longing for God Himself? Evaluate whether your focus is on the desired outcome or on deepening your relationship with your Creator. Is your faith transactional? Ask yourself honestly if you only trust God when He answers prayers the way you want, or if you trust His inherent goodness even when He is silent. What is your heart's posture in the waiting? Are you breathing through the period with hope and releasing fear, or are you holding onto anxiety and frustration?

Personal Reflection (AI Gen)Am I living a life true to myself, or am I living to meet the expectations of others?Do my current choices reflect my core values, or are they being driven by temporary circumstances or societal pressure?What are the three most powerful choices I've made, and what did they teach me about myself? [1, 2, 3, 4]https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-spiritual-exercises/the-two-standards/

Surrendering Ambition:In 1521, a cannonball shattered Ignatius's leg and his dreams of military glory, forcing him into a long, agonizing recovery. Out of boredom, he began reading about the lives of the saints, which sparked a deep conversion. Reflection: What "cannonballs" or unexpected disruptions have shattered my own plans or ego? How might God be using these painful or limiting moments to redirect my life toward a deeper purpose?Paying Attention to Desires (Discernment)While recovering, Ignatius noticed that daydreaming about worldly honors left him feeling initially excited but ultimately empty. Conversely, thinking about emulating the saints brought him lasting peace and joy. Reflection: What desires, actions, or thoughts consistently leave me feeling drained and restless? What brings me a deep, lasting sense of peace and joy? How can I use these inner movements to help me make better choices?

Seeking new ways to use our imagination to pray!

The purpose of journaling is not to replay your time of prayer minute by minute. Instead, after your prayer period concludes, consider the following:What were the significant interior movements (that is, feelings, reactions, intuitions, desires, emotions, thoughts, or insights)?What was the prevailing mood of my prayer: peace, agitation, excitement, boredom, confusion, calm?Was my prayer more about the head or the heart, or about both?What word, phrase, image, or memory meant most to me during prayer?Is there some unfinished business that I think God is calling me to return to during another time of prayer?Is there something happening in my life that is becoming part of my prayer? Do I feel moved to do something concrete in my life?Am I making the necessary preparations for my prayer? Is there anything I am doing or not doing that is getting in the way of my listening to God?https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-what-how-why-of-prayer/review-prayer-by-keeping-a-journal/

THE PEACE OF WILD THINGSby Wendell BerryWhen despair grows in meand I wake in the middle of the night at the least soundin fear of what my life and my children's lives may be,I go and lie down where the wood drakerests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.I come into the peace of wild thingswho do not tax their lives with forethoughtof grief. I come into the presence of still water.And I feel above me the day-blind starswaiting for their light. For a timeI rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

Guidelines for prayer● I try to imagine a broken world going from the situations that are farthest to those closest to me. ● I meditate on the present situations of rupture with God, with creation, with others, with my inner self. How will the future be for them and for me if we continue down this path?● With my inner senses, I try to explore the final consequences and proportions of the wounds of our world.

The Goal of our life is to live with God forever.God, who loves us, gave us life.Our own response of love allows God's lifeto flow into us without limit.All the things in this world are gifts from God,presented to us so that we can know God more easilyand make a return of love more readily.As a result, we appreciate and use all these gifts of God insofar as they help us to develop as loving persons.But if any of these gifts become the center of our lives,they displace God and so hinder our growth toward our goal.In everyday life, then, we must hold ourselves in balancebefore all of these created gifts insofar as we have a choice and are not bound by some obligation.We should not fix our desires on health or sickness,wealth or poverty, success or failure, a long life or a short one.For everything has the potential of calling forth in usA deeper response to our life in God.Our only desire and our one choice should be this:I want and I choose what better leadsto God's deepening his life in me.(St. Ignatius as paraphrased by David L. Fleming SJ)Guidelines for prayerYou can choose between different approaches :● Read slowly calmly the Principle and Foundation and try to discover the areas in your life that are enlightened by God's light.● You are part of a covenant that God has made with us since the beginning of time, going back to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David... Jesus... Peter, Paul... Ignatius... and the torch has now been passed onto you. Receive this light as a legacy and reflect on how it has enlightened your life to this day. Give thanks for all those who have passed on this torch to you.● Everything in our life is a gift from God. With our gifts and choices we can enlighten the world or leave it in darkness. God is for me like a beacon that illuminates and guides me through life. Let me take a moment to thank Him for my areas of light and ask Him to help me get to know better my areas of darkness.https://www.educatemagis.org/wp-content/uploads/documents/2020/02/UAP_8_days_retreat_FULL.pdf

Some Catholic prayers for the soul !

https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen/rummaging-for-god-praying-backward-through-your-day/

Gratitude: Begin by thanking God for the blessings of the day, acknowledging his gifts with a heart full of gratitude.Petition: Ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten your heart and mind, allowing you to see your day through God's eyes.Review: Reflect on the day, from the moment you woke up to the present, noticing where you felt God's presence or were drawn away from him.Forgiveness: Acknowledge your faults and ask for God's forgiveness. This step is not about dwelling on guilt but about recognizing our need for God's mercy and grace.Renewal: Look forward to the next day with hope. Make a simple resolution in response to God's inviting love and grace experienced during your reflection.https://www.denvercatholic.org/three-ways-to-incorporate-ignatian-spirituality-into-daily-life