LEAVES Website for the September-October 2017 Issue
Excerpted from “Leaflets” column:
The Holy Father’s Apostleship of Prayer Intention for October is that “all workers may receive respect and protection of their rights, and that the unemployed may receive the opportunity to contribute to the common good.” Many of the prayer requests from the LEAVES family involve petitions for those who are unemployed or who are trying to find improved career opportunities.
Employment that pays a living wage with benefits plays an important part in our communities. It is not appropriate for a business owner to be concerned only with profit at the expense of employees. At the same time it is wrong for employees to take advantage of employers by giving substandard effort in their jobs.
Work that safeguards the dignity of workers, customers and business owners elevates society in many ways. All those involved feel a connection with one another and care about one another; as a result the quality of the product or service increases.
People who labor in businesses that respect them are happier and healthier. These positive outlooks will usually spill over to their families and friends when the work day is done.
The unemployed need our prayers. Many stresses can accompany them during this time. Often people are thrown into unemployment without any warning. Major financial difficulties often result, adding even more anxiety to the situation.
We all should join Pope Francis in praying for the working conditions of those who are employed and for appropriate jobs for those who are unemployed. May God bless them all.
Let us not forget that October is the Month of the Rosary. The late Fr. Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. advised us that “The family that prays together stays together” and “A world at prayer is a world at peace.”
Fr. Peyton was known as the “Rosary Priest.” He came down with tuberculosis in his second year of the seminary. After fervently praying to our Lady, he was cured. Thereafter he dedicated himself to spreading the word of the powerful prayer of the rosary, advocating especially the Family Rosary.
We would do well to follow the example of Fr. Peyton. So many families are struggling. Prayer can promote strong bonds within families. Let us pray with our families and for all families, especially dedicating rosaries during October for families.
It seems that every other day there are reports of violence and terror somewhere in the world. Where guns and bombs have proven ineffective, perhaps prayer might be a stronger weapon. Prayer and rosaries for world peace may be the only solution and one that we all can contribute. May God grant you abundant blessings always - Fr. Thomas Heier, C.M.M.
Excerpted from “Our Family Album”:
Amputation Not Needed
About 12 years ago my son had cancer in his foot. It started out not to be a big deal, but over time it involved radiation, surgical removal of some of the bone and a very bad infection to the point that he almost lost his foot. During those years I was praying for him. I asked all the saints in heaven to help him and I asked all the missions I know to pray that he would be healed.
Two years ago it got so bad that my son went to an emergency room. The infection was so severe that his doctor was ready to cut off his foot, but with faith in Jesus he did not do it. My son went to a rehabilitation center for a few months, got better, and they gave him a big boot for his foot. I had hoped that my son would get better and get back to his job, but that did not happen.
The doctor that was with my son during all those years helped him finally to get permanent disability. Now he is making about the same money as when he was working. He feels better, but he still has to wear the big boot. I hope that in the future he will not need it anymore.
So my prayers were all answered. God saved him, saved his foot. He is very positive that he will do better and some day will walk with regular shoes like before - Jerry D’A.
Skidding Car Safe
The following incident happened in Jersey City, NJ, about 50 years ago. It was so terrifying that I will never forget it for the rest of my life. It confirmed my faith in God.
Even though it was not raining at the time, Tonnelle Avenue happened to be wet. While I was driving north, a truck on the southbound side of the highway started pulling out of a parking lot to go north. Due to my haste or maybe my inexperience, I reacted incorrectly in applying my brakes too hard, causing the car to go into a skid.
My car not only skidded forward, but it turned around 180 degrees, crossed the southbound lanes and finally stopped at the curb on the southbound side, as if I had parked it. I just sat there for a minute or two. I was safe. I watched the cars and trucks go by and said, “Thank you, God,” before I continued on my way - Frank S.
Excerpted from Blessed Engelmar Testimonies:
A Life of
Blessed Engelmar
There is now available a booklet of the life of Blessed 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 let you know that my great-grandson was born on April 2 and weighed nine pounds. For the prayers I want to thank you, many saints and Fr. Engelmar. He is special for me. I wish the process for his sainthood would move more quickly. Thanks again - Agnes F. ( age 97)
+ + +
My thanksgiving to Bl. Engelmar who helped me find a much-needed document that caused much stress in my long search for it. Thank you for LEAVES magazine that you have sent to me for many, many years. I pray for you and the LEAVES family. God bless you all - Rita M.
+ + +
A donation for a favor received from prayers to Bl. Engelmar. My husband had Parkinson’s and lost his voice for some time. I prayed to Bl. Engelmar for his voice to return, stating that I would send you a donation for the favor received. His voice did partially return, enough to be able to verbally communicate with his family, which was a great blessing. He died several weeks later and is now at peace with his heavenly Father. God bless you for all you do for the poor and needy - Theresa G.
+ + +
Many rosaries, prayers to saints and requests were made for relief of a sale of valuable property in a large city. I began a novena to Fr. Engelmar. As soon as I completed my first novena, part of my request was answered. I am humbly thankful. My donation is in sincere thanks to Fr. Engelmar. I continue praying that the whole problem will be solved through his intercession - Valerie M.
Novena in Honor of
Abbot Francis Pfanner
Abbot Francis Pfanner founded Mariannhill Monastery, and 108 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.
Novena in Honor of
St. John Bosco
Father and Teacher
Of the Young
In need of special help, I appeal with confidence to you, St. John Bosco, for I require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly … (add your special intention here).
May you, who on earth had such great devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and who always had compassion for those who were suffering, obtain from Jesus and His heavenly Mother the grace I now request and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.
Pray the Our Father,
Hail Mary and Glory Be.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you. You are all fair, O Virgin Mary, you never knew the stain of sin. You are the glory of Jerusalem, you are the joy of Israel. You are the great honor of our people, you are the advocate of sinners, O Mary, Virgin most prudent. O Mary, Mother most merciful, pray for us, intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayer of
St. Francis of Assisi
Almighty, eternal, just and merciful God, grant us the desire to do only what pleases you, and the strength to do only what you command. Cleanse our souls, enlighten our minds, and inflame our hearts with your Holy Spirit, that we may follow in the footsteps of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
In Mary’s Care
O Mary, in the morning -
Once again I quietly pray
Let your love caress me
As I welcome a new day.
O Mary, in the daytime -
Remain close by my side.
The burdens of life lessen
With you my daily guide.
O Mary, in the evening -
Hear my humble plea.
May your care sustain
My family and me
By D.T.C.
Question?
By Margaret Peterson
The perfume in a flower is an indication / Of the God who caused it to be. / Are our souls as sweet because we love Him / And serve Him fervently?
Impossible
Or Himpossible?
By Cindy Evans
With me, in my flesh,
It’s impossible in the natural,
but with Him, in His power,
It’s Himpossible, supernatural!
With me, in my strength,
It’s only weak and broken;
With Him, the Almighty,
It’s done if He’s spoken!
With me, in my efforts,
There’s no guarantee,
But with Him, it’s promised
And done perfectly!
While We Wait
By Arlene Lila
We wait for You, Lord Jesus,
And long for Your return.
Your bride is getting ready;
For our real home we yearn.
While we wait, Lord Jesus,
Show us how, we pray,
To do the work You’ve given us,
To show others “The Way.”
We thank You now, Lord Jesus,
For the help You send our way,
Your precious Holy Spirit,
Who gives us words to say.
Excerpted from “Leaflets” column:
The Holy Father’s Apostleship of Prayer Intention for October is that “all workers may receive respect and protection of their rights, and that the unemployed may receive the opportunity to contribute to the common good.” Many of the prayer requests from the LEAVES family involve petitions for those who are unemployed or who are trying to find improved career opportunities.
Employment that pays a living wage with benefits plays an important part in our communities. It is not appropriate for a business owner to be concerned only with profit at the expense of employees. At the same time it is wrong for employees to take advantage of employers by giving substandard effort in their jobs.
Work that safeguards the dignity of workers, customers and business owners elevates society in many ways. All those involved feel a connection with one another and care about one another; as a result the quality of the product or service increases.
People who labor in businesses that respect them are happier and healthier. These positive outlooks will usually spill over to their families and friends when the work day is done.
The unemployed need our prayers. Many stresses can accompany them during this time. Often people are thrown into unemployment without any warning. Major financial difficulties often result, adding even more anxiety to the situation.
We all should join Pope Francis in praying for the working conditions of those who are employed and for appropriate jobs for those who are unemployed. May God bless them all.
Let us not forget that October is the Month of the Rosary. The late Fr. Patrick Peyton, C.S.C. advised us that “The family that prays together stays together” and “A world at prayer is a world at peace.”
Fr. Peyton was known as the “Rosary Priest.” He came down with tuberculosis in his second year of the seminary. After fervently praying to our Lady, he was cured. Thereafter he dedicated himself to spreading the word of the powerful prayer of the rosary, advocating especially the Family Rosary.
We would do well to follow the example of Fr. Peyton. So many families are struggling. Prayer can promote strong bonds within families. Let us pray with our families and for all families, especially dedicating rosaries during October for families.
It seems that every other day there are reports of violence and terror somewhere in the world. Where guns and bombs have proven ineffective, perhaps prayer might be a stronger weapon. Prayer and rosaries for world peace may be the only solution and one that we all can contribute. May God grant you abundant blessings always - Fr. Thomas Heier, C.M.M.
Excerpted from “Our Family Album”:
Amputation Not Needed
About 12 years ago my son had cancer in his foot. It started out not to be a big deal, but over time it involved radiation, surgical removal of some of the bone and a very bad infection to the point that he almost lost his foot. During those years I was praying for him. I asked all the saints in heaven to help him and I asked all the missions I know to pray that he would be healed.
Two years ago it got so bad that my son went to an emergency room. The infection was so severe that his doctor was ready to cut off his foot, but with faith in Jesus he did not do it. My son went to a rehabilitation center for a few months, got better, and they gave him a big boot for his foot. I had hoped that my son would get better and get back to his job, but that did not happen.
The doctor that was with my son during all those years helped him finally to get permanent disability. Now he is making about the same money as when he was working. He feels better, but he still has to wear the big boot. I hope that in the future he will not need it anymore.
So my prayers were all answered. God saved him, saved his foot. He is very positive that he will do better and some day will walk with regular shoes like before - Jerry D’A.
Skidding Car Safe
The following incident happened in Jersey City, NJ, about 50 years ago. It was so terrifying that I will never forget it for the rest of my life. It confirmed my faith in God.
Even though it was not raining at the time, Tonnelle Avenue happened to be wet. While I was driving north, a truck on the southbound side of the highway started pulling out of a parking lot to go north. Due to my haste or maybe my inexperience, I reacted incorrectly in applying my brakes too hard, causing the car to go into a skid.
My car not only skidded forward, but it turned around 180 degrees, crossed the southbound lanes and finally stopped at the curb on the southbound side, as if I had parked it. I just sat there for a minute or two. I was safe. I watched the cars and trucks go by and said, “Thank you, God,” before I continued on my way - Frank S.
Excerpted from Blessed Engelmar Testimonies:
A Life of
Blessed Engelmar
There is now available a booklet of the life of Blessed 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 let you know that my great-grandson was born on April 2 and weighed nine pounds. For the prayers I want to thank you, many saints and Fr. Engelmar. He is special for me. I wish the process for his sainthood would move more quickly. Thanks again - Agnes F. ( age 97)
+ + +
My thanksgiving to Bl. Engelmar who helped me find a much-needed document that caused much stress in my long search for it. Thank you for LEAVES magazine that you have sent to me for many, many years. I pray for you and the LEAVES family. God bless you all - Rita M.
+ + +
A donation for a favor received from prayers to Bl. Engelmar. My husband had Parkinson’s and lost his voice for some time. I prayed to Bl. Engelmar for his voice to return, stating that I would send you a donation for the favor received. His voice did partially return, enough to be able to verbally communicate with his family, which was a great blessing. He died several weeks later and is now at peace with his heavenly Father. God bless you for all you do for the poor and needy - Theresa G.
+ + +
Many rosaries, prayers to saints and requests were made for relief of a sale of valuable property in a large city. I began a novena to Fr. Engelmar. As soon as I completed my first novena, part of my request was answered. I am humbly thankful. My donation is in sincere thanks to Fr. Engelmar. I continue praying that the whole problem will be solved through his intercession - Valerie M.
Novena in Honor of
Abbot Francis Pfanner
Abbot Francis Pfanner founded Mariannhill Monastery, and 108 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.
Novena in Honor of
St. John Bosco
Father and Teacher
Of the Young
In need of special help, I appeal with confidence to you, St. John Bosco, for I require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly … (add your special intention here).
May you, who on earth had such great devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and who always had compassion for those who were suffering, obtain from Jesus and His heavenly Mother the grace I now request and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.
Pray the Our Father,
Hail Mary and Glory Be.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you. You are all fair, O Virgin Mary, you never knew the stain of sin. You are the glory of Jerusalem, you are the joy of Israel. You are the great honor of our people, you are the advocate of sinners, O Mary, Virgin most prudent. O Mary, Mother most merciful, pray for us, intercede for us with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayer of
St. Francis of Assisi
Almighty, eternal, just and merciful God, grant us the desire to do only what pleases you, and the strength to do only what you command. Cleanse our souls, enlighten our minds, and inflame our hearts with your Holy Spirit, that we may follow in the footsteps of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
In Mary’s Care
O Mary, in the morning -
Once again I quietly pray
Let your love caress me
As I welcome a new day.
O Mary, in the daytime -
Remain close by my side.
The burdens of life lessen
With you my daily guide.
O Mary, in the evening -
Hear my humble plea.
May your care sustain
My family and me
By D.T.C.
Question?
By Margaret Peterson
The perfume in a flower is an indication / Of the God who caused it to be. / Are our souls as sweet because we love Him / And serve Him fervently?
Impossible
Or Himpossible?
By Cindy Evans
With me, in my flesh,
It’s impossible in the natural,
but with Him, in His power,
It’s Himpossible, supernatural!
With me, in my strength,
It’s only weak and broken;
With Him, the Almighty,
It’s done if He’s spoken!
With me, in my efforts,
There’s no guarantee,
But with Him, it’s promised
And done perfectly!
While We Wait
By Arlene Lila
We wait for You, Lord Jesus,
And long for Your return.
Your bride is getting ready;
For our real home we yearn.
While we wait, Lord Jesus,
Show us how, we pray,
To do the work You’ve given us,
To show others “The Way.”
We thank You now, Lord Jesus,
For the help You send our way,
Your precious Holy Spirit,
Who gives us words to say.