LEAVES Website for May-June 2022 Issue
Excerpted from “Leaflets” column:
In May we celebrate Mother’s Day and in June Father’s Day. Children don’t always appreciate their parents until they are older, sometimes only when they have children of their own. Parenthood is a combination of work and worry, blessings and joy.
Many couples today are opting out of having children. When couples enter into a sacramental marriage, they agree to be open to having a family. Of course, there are always those who through no fault of their own are unable to conceive. That can be a source of tremendous pain for them and we should keep them in prayer.
June’s Apostleship of Prayer Intention from Pope Francis is for families: “We pray for Christian families around the world; may they embody and experience unconditional love and advance in holiness in their daily lives.” Providing food, shelter, clothing and educational opportunities are basic responsibilities for parents. The Holy Father reminds us that we must do more.
Just as husband and wife love each other with an enduring love, so too must they shower that love on their children. A child who feels loved grows into a secure, loving adult. Misbehaving children are still loved by their parents, as does our Lord continue to love us when we sin. He guides us back to grace, just as parents must guide their children to do right.
Holiness should be a goal for both parents and children. Children can be taught little acts of grace: a quick prayer for a sick friend, prayers at mealtime and bedtime, making the Sign of the Cross and using holy water. Parents can bless their children before lights out at night or before they leave for school. A quick cross made on their foreheads takes only a moment.
The last couple of years have been difficult for many families. Parents may have lost jobs or had hours cut back. So many families lost loved ones in the pandemic. School has sometimes been cancelled or done remotely, making childcare a challenge for working parents. The stress has been unbearable for some.
Mark this Mother’s Day and Father’s Day by honoring your own parents and other parents in your family and circle of friends. For those who have lost parents, pay tribute to them by doing something meaningful. Have Masses said or perhaps donate to their favorite charity or partake in an activity they enjoyed, such as a walk in the woods or at the beach.
As we bring to mind families, do not forget to call upon the paramount family – the Holy Family. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, pray for us!
This is a lovely time of year. Spring is in full swing. It is pleasant to be outside. Flowers and trees are in bloom. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature.
Do not let this time pass without giving thanks for and enjoying God’s magnificent gifts of nature. May God grant you abundant blessings always – Fr. Thomas Heier, C.M.M.
Excerpted from “Our Family Album”:
St. Michael Petitioned
Every second Saturday of the month, from noon until 1:00 p.m., we pray in front of our town’s police station. We hold a large banner in honor of St. Michael the Archangel who oversees warding off evil. Fortunately, the area is well traveled, especially at the time that we are praying.
On the eve of the feast of the Assumption, a man stopped and lifted his hands, as if he wanted some explanation as to what we were doing. Immediately I left the group to talk with him. I explained that we had the full permission from the police personnel.
The gentleman said he couldn’t understand why pray to St. Michael, for he wanted us to pray to God. I explained that we were dedicated to asking God’s help, as well as our heavenly angels.
The man noticed we were using our rosary beads, so I put a set in his hand. He said, “I’m Lutheran!” I told him that anybody can pray the rosary. He said, “Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be?” Surprised, I said, “You know the rosary!” Yet he would not accept it. He wanted someone to have it who would use it regularly.
He said, “I see how you dress.” I said, “Yes, we believe in dressing modestly.” This seemed to say a lot to him. When I asked his name he said, “Paul,” and then added, “Peter.” I remarked that his name was remarkable for Paul is the pillar of souls and Peter is the head of the Church.
The cars behind him were piling up, so it was time for him to go. As he left, I invited him to join us every second Saturday. You never know when you are called upon to witness to your religion. Let us pray to Ss. Peter and Paul for his return – Andrea Remlin.
Signal Grace from
Our Blessed Mother
In February 2020, our 14-year-old granddaughter became seriously ill. It was as though her brain stopped functioning. She could not sleep, eat, walk or talk. She went five days without sleep. A feeding tube was inserted to keep her nourished.
We were distraught. All tests were coming back negative. Doctors didn’t know what was causing this. (It was later determined to be a viral attack which does not always show up on tests.) I had always prayed to Our Lady of Mount Carmel for my grandchildren, so I prayed fervently to her at this time for my granddaughter’s return to us.
One night I had a dream. In the dream I peeped into my granddaughter’s room to check on her. She was sleeping on her back. On her stomach was the Lady of Mount Carmel scapular. One end of the scapular was up near her neck and the other end at her navel.
I was very comforted by this dream, as I felt the Blessed Mother saying, “Do not fret. I have her in my care.” My granddaughter recovered! She is doing very well and is a testament to our prayers.
I would encourage our LEAVES family to pray to Our Lady of Mount Carmel during their trials. She listens to our prayers – R.J.F.
Special Gift Is Stolen
Some time ago I promised St. Anthony and God a donation if something that had been taken from me was returned. I decided to send half of what I promised immediately, which I did, and then I would send the rest of the donation on its return.
It has been several years and either God or St. Anthony has decided that I don’t really need this item or I must pray longer. Since I am getting older, I thought I better send the other half so that my obligation is met. I will continue to pray as this was a gift from my deceased son and is very special to me.
For a long time I thought this thing was taken by someone who had moved away and it was lost forever. Then I had a dream that showed me how and who had taken it. I was heartbroken, as she was a very dear friend of mine, almost like a sister.
I confronted my friend and my suspicion was true, so we are no longer friends, but I pray every day for her soul and for the return of this precious gift from my son.
I love LEAVES magazine. As a child, I remember my mother getting it. I pray for all those readers who are so in need of God’s blessings – H.A.K.
My Guardian Angel
Helps Me
I want to let you know something about my guardian angel, Charity. Our guardian angels are here for us.
On occasion I will get a migraine headache. Years ago I discovered that drinking two cups of very strong, black coffee right away nips it in the bud for me. The migraine will go away rather quickly.
I was watching my two grandsons (4 years old and 16 months old) and three dogs at their home. I started to get a migraine, but there was no coffee! I started drinking hot water, telling myself that it was coffee, which did not help, of course.
I turned to Charity and told her that it would be very hard for me to take care of two little boys with a migraine, so I asked her for her help. The migraine did not get worse and, in fact, it went away! It was just so amazing and I was one very thankful grammy. Now I keep instant coffee on hand with me.
Our angels are here for us. I pray for the LEAVES families and members. Please use my donation where needed. Thank you and God bless and keep us all safe – Elaine B.
Excerpted from Blessed Father Engelmar Testimonies:
A Life of
Blessed Father Engelmar
There is now available a booklet of the life of Blessed Father Engelmar Unzeitig, C.M.M. You may receive a free copy of it by sending a stamped (postage for one ounce), self-addressed envelope to us at: LEAVES, P.O. Box 87, Dearborn, MI 48121-0087.
I want to thank especially Our Lady Mediatrix, Ss. Therese and Pio, and Fr. Engelmar for prayers answered. I can’t thank them enough. I am so grateful – C.A.
+ + +
I want to say thank you for the Prayer to Fr. Engelmar. I said it every day for three months and landed the job that I wanted – W.T.
+ + +
I am writing in sadness. My son’s wife left him. They have two children. She wants freedom and no responsibility, and she is seeing another man. I had prayed to Fr. Engelmar for help for her to get a better job.
Looking back, I prayed for the very thing she wanted – to leave our little community. Her father died three months ago and she changed after that. She did not grieve with a tear, just said that she could see that life was too short not to enjoy herself. She is only speaking to her boyfriend and those friends who condone divorce. She had all of us fooled.
Please pray! Pray, too, for me. I lost my voice after thyroid biopsy and our daughter is bitter and angry that our son farms with my husband – LeeAnn M.
Prayer to
Bl. Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig
Jesus, with the help of your Mother Mary, Bl. Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig’s faith grew stronger, his hope more sure and his love more ardent in the concentration camp of Dachau. He became an intercessor for his own country and for the entire world.
Hear our prayers and grant what we ask through Bl. Fr. Engelmar’s intercession, so that You may be glorified in Your martyrs and saints. We ask this in Your name and in the name of all the martyrs of the 20th century.
Amen.
[Whoever receives favors through the intercession of Bl. Fr. Engelmar is asked to report them to the following person: Postulator General, c/o Mariannhill Mission Society, 23715 Ann Arbor Trail, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127-1449.]
Novena in Honor of
Abbot Francis Pfanner
Abbot Francis Pfanner founded Mariannhill Monastery, and 113 years ago its monks became the Congregation of Missionaries of Mariannhill. He was not only a great missionary, but also a holy man. The cause for his beatification has begun. We have available a novena in his honor and will send you a free copy of it when you send a stamped (postage for one ounce), self-addressed envelope to us at: LEAVES, P.O. Box 87, Dearborn, MI 48121-0087.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein that you are my Mother.
O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein that you are my Mother.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us that have recourse to thee. (Repeat three times)
Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (Repeat three times)
Prayer to St. Joseph
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the Throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, do assist me by your powerful intercession, and obtain for me from your divine Son all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of fathers. O St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen.
God’s Answers to
My Prayers
By Patricia Moore
I asked God for riches;
He blessed me with His spiritual gifts.
I asked God for many friends;
He gave me a few true friends.
I asked God for beauty;
He gave me the beauty of my soul.
I asked God for no crosses to bear;
He helped me to carry my crosses.
God did not give me what I asked for;
What He gave me was His everlasting love.
Change
By Margaret Peterson
When a heart that is cold
Grows warm to the Lord,
Then angels burst into song
Of sweet serenade
On golden harps played,
And God Himself hums along.
Blessings
By Sr. Marcella LaKoske, OP
I always returned from my walk
when I reached the tree;
I marveled how it stood there
and it seemed to bless me.
In fair weather and in foul
it wore foliage like a crown,
And though part of it was dying,
it held its branches high.
Once I touched it with my hand
and blessed the coarse-grained bark.
It felt so good I touched it with my cheek.
That time I stayed ‘till after dark.
It seemed so proud and gallant all the time
I laid my cheek against it,
And thought of things I had to do,
so many longings and regrets came bit by bit.
I was lost in thought
as I worried and dreamed about the past.
I thought I’d imitate the tree
and knew I’d better act fast.
Old age was coming upon me
and soon I’d be drawing my last breath.
I’d need the stunning grace and courage of the tree.
I hoped they’d be with me in my death.
Excerpted from “Leaflets” column:
In May we celebrate Mother’s Day and in June Father’s Day. Children don’t always appreciate their parents until they are older, sometimes only when they have children of their own. Parenthood is a combination of work and worry, blessings and joy.
Many couples today are opting out of having children. When couples enter into a sacramental marriage, they agree to be open to having a family. Of course, there are always those who through no fault of their own are unable to conceive. That can be a source of tremendous pain for them and we should keep them in prayer.
June’s Apostleship of Prayer Intention from Pope Francis is for families: “We pray for Christian families around the world; may they embody and experience unconditional love and advance in holiness in their daily lives.” Providing food, shelter, clothing and educational opportunities are basic responsibilities for parents. The Holy Father reminds us that we must do more.
Just as husband and wife love each other with an enduring love, so too must they shower that love on their children. A child who feels loved grows into a secure, loving adult. Misbehaving children are still loved by their parents, as does our Lord continue to love us when we sin. He guides us back to grace, just as parents must guide their children to do right.
Holiness should be a goal for both parents and children. Children can be taught little acts of grace: a quick prayer for a sick friend, prayers at mealtime and bedtime, making the Sign of the Cross and using holy water. Parents can bless their children before lights out at night or before they leave for school. A quick cross made on their foreheads takes only a moment.
The last couple of years have been difficult for many families. Parents may have lost jobs or had hours cut back. So many families lost loved ones in the pandemic. School has sometimes been cancelled or done remotely, making childcare a challenge for working parents. The stress has been unbearable for some.
Mark this Mother’s Day and Father’s Day by honoring your own parents and other parents in your family and circle of friends. For those who have lost parents, pay tribute to them by doing something meaningful. Have Masses said or perhaps donate to their favorite charity or partake in an activity they enjoyed, such as a walk in the woods or at the beach.
As we bring to mind families, do not forget to call upon the paramount family – the Holy Family. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, pray for us!
This is a lovely time of year. Spring is in full swing. It is pleasant to be outside. Flowers and trees are in bloom. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature.
Do not let this time pass without giving thanks for and enjoying God’s magnificent gifts of nature. May God grant you abundant blessings always – Fr. Thomas Heier, C.M.M.
Excerpted from “Our Family Album”:
St. Michael Petitioned
Every second Saturday of the month, from noon until 1:00 p.m., we pray in front of our town’s police station. We hold a large banner in honor of St. Michael the Archangel who oversees warding off evil. Fortunately, the area is well traveled, especially at the time that we are praying.
On the eve of the feast of the Assumption, a man stopped and lifted his hands, as if he wanted some explanation as to what we were doing. Immediately I left the group to talk with him. I explained that we had the full permission from the police personnel.
The gentleman said he couldn’t understand why pray to St. Michael, for he wanted us to pray to God. I explained that we were dedicated to asking God’s help, as well as our heavenly angels.
The man noticed we were using our rosary beads, so I put a set in his hand. He said, “I’m Lutheran!” I told him that anybody can pray the rosary. He said, “Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be?” Surprised, I said, “You know the rosary!” Yet he would not accept it. He wanted someone to have it who would use it regularly.
He said, “I see how you dress.” I said, “Yes, we believe in dressing modestly.” This seemed to say a lot to him. When I asked his name he said, “Paul,” and then added, “Peter.” I remarked that his name was remarkable for Paul is the pillar of souls and Peter is the head of the Church.
The cars behind him were piling up, so it was time for him to go. As he left, I invited him to join us every second Saturday. You never know when you are called upon to witness to your religion. Let us pray to Ss. Peter and Paul for his return – Andrea Remlin.
Signal Grace from
Our Blessed Mother
In February 2020, our 14-year-old granddaughter became seriously ill. It was as though her brain stopped functioning. She could not sleep, eat, walk or talk. She went five days without sleep. A feeding tube was inserted to keep her nourished.
We were distraught. All tests were coming back negative. Doctors didn’t know what was causing this. (It was later determined to be a viral attack which does not always show up on tests.) I had always prayed to Our Lady of Mount Carmel for my grandchildren, so I prayed fervently to her at this time for my granddaughter’s return to us.
One night I had a dream. In the dream I peeped into my granddaughter’s room to check on her. She was sleeping on her back. On her stomach was the Lady of Mount Carmel scapular. One end of the scapular was up near her neck and the other end at her navel.
I was very comforted by this dream, as I felt the Blessed Mother saying, “Do not fret. I have her in my care.” My granddaughter recovered! She is doing very well and is a testament to our prayers.
I would encourage our LEAVES family to pray to Our Lady of Mount Carmel during their trials. She listens to our prayers – R.J.F.
Special Gift Is Stolen
Some time ago I promised St. Anthony and God a donation if something that had been taken from me was returned. I decided to send half of what I promised immediately, which I did, and then I would send the rest of the donation on its return.
It has been several years and either God or St. Anthony has decided that I don’t really need this item or I must pray longer. Since I am getting older, I thought I better send the other half so that my obligation is met. I will continue to pray as this was a gift from my deceased son and is very special to me.
For a long time I thought this thing was taken by someone who had moved away and it was lost forever. Then I had a dream that showed me how and who had taken it. I was heartbroken, as she was a very dear friend of mine, almost like a sister.
I confronted my friend and my suspicion was true, so we are no longer friends, but I pray every day for her soul and for the return of this precious gift from my son.
I love LEAVES magazine. As a child, I remember my mother getting it. I pray for all those readers who are so in need of God’s blessings – H.A.K.
My Guardian Angel
Helps Me
I want to let you know something about my guardian angel, Charity. Our guardian angels are here for us.
On occasion I will get a migraine headache. Years ago I discovered that drinking two cups of very strong, black coffee right away nips it in the bud for me. The migraine will go away rather quickly.
I was watching my two grandsons (4 years old and 16 months old) and three dogs at their home. I started to get a migraine, but there was no coffee! I started drinking hot water, telling myself that it was coffee, which did not help, of course.
I turned to Charity and told her that it would be very hard for me to take care of two little boys with a migraine, so I asked her for her help. The migraine did not get worse and, in fact, it went away! It was just so amazing and I was one very thankful grammy. Now I keep instant coffee on hand with me.
Our angels are here for us. I pray for the LEAVES families and members. Please use my donation where needed. Thank you and God bless and keep us all safe – Elaine B.
Excerpted from Blessed Father Engelmar Testimonies:
A Life of
Blessed Father Engelmar
There is now available a booklet of the life of Blessed Father Engelmar Unzeitig, C.M.M. You may receive a free copy of it by sending a stamped (postage for one ounce), self-addressed envelope to us at: LEAVES, P.O. Box 87, Dearborn, MI 48121-0087.
I want to thank especially Our Lady Mediatrix, Ss. Therese and Pio, and Fr. Engelmar for prayers answered. I can’t thank them enough. I am so grateful – C.A.
+ + +
I want to say thank you for the Prayer to Fr. Engelmar. I said it every day for three months and landed the job that I wanted – W.T.
+ + +
I am writing in sadness. My son’s wife left him. They have two children. She wants freedom and no responsibility, and she is seeing another man. I had prayed to Fr. Engelmar for help for her to get a better job.
Looking back, I prayed for the very thing she wanted – to leave our little community. Her father died three months ago and she changed after that. She did not grieve with a tear, just said that she could see that life was too short not to enjoy herself. She is only speaking to her boyfriend and those friends who condone divorce. She had all of us fooled.
Please pray! Pray, too, for me. I lost my voice after thyroid biopsy and our daughter is bitter and angry that our son farms with my husband – LeeAnn M.
Prayer to
Bl. Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig
Jesus, with the help of your Mother Mary, Bl. Fr. Engelmar Unzeitig’s faith grew stronger, his hope more sure and his love more ardent in the concentration camp of Dachau. He became an intercessor for his own country and for the entire world.
Hear our prayers and grant what we ask through Bl. Fr. Engelmar’s intercession, so that You may be glorified in Your martyrs and saints. We ask this in Your name and in the name of all the martyrs of the 20th century.
Amen.
[Whoever receives favors through the intercession of Bl. Fr. Engelmar is asked to report them to the following person: Postulator General, c/o Mariannhill Mission Society, 23715 Ann Arbor Trail, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127-1449.]
Novena in Honor of
Abbot Francis Pfanner
Abbot Francis Pfanner founded Mariannhill Monastery, and 113 years ago its monks became the Congregation of Missionaries of Mariannhill. He was not only a great missionary, but also a holy man. The cause for his beatification has begun. We have available a novena in his honor and will send you a free copy of it when you send a stamped (postage for one ounce), self-addressed envelope to us at: LEAVES, P.O. Box 87, Dearborn, MI 48121-0087.
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein that you are my Mother.
O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein that you are my Mother.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us that have recourse to thee. (Repeat three times)
Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (Repeat three times)
Prayer to St. Joseph
O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the Throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, do assist me by your powerful intercession, and obtain for me from your divine Son all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of fathers. O St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen.
God’s Answers to
My Prayers
By Patricia Moore
I asked God for riches;
He blessed me with His spiritual gifts.
I asked God for many friends;
He gave me a few true friends.
I asked God for beauty;
He gave me the beauty of my soul.
I asked God for no crosses to bear;
He helped me to carry my crosses.
God did not give me what I asked for;
What He gave me was His everlasting love.
Change
By Margaret Peterson
When a heart that is cold
Grows warm to the Lord,
Then angels burst into song
Of sweet serenade
On golden harps played,
And God Himself hums along.
Blessings
By Sr. Marcella LaKoske, OP
I always returned from my walk
when I reached the tree;
I marveled how it stood there
and it seemed to bless me.
In fair weather and in foul
it wore foliage like a crown,
And though part of it was dying,
it held its branches high.
Once I touched it with my hand
and blessed the coarse-grained bark.
It felt so good I touched it with my cheek.
That time I stayed ‘till after dark.
It seemed so proud and gallant all the time
I laid my cheek against it,
And thought of things I had to do,
so many longings and regrets came bit by bit.
I was lost in thought
as I worried and dreamed about the past.
I thought I’d imitate the tree
and knew I’d better act fast.
Old age was coming upon me
and soon I’d be drawing my last breath.
I’d need the stunning grace and courage of the tree.
I hoped they’d be with me in my death.