Volume I, Issue 1

1502–1539 2007

Dear Readers! I thank you for the interest you have shown in spending time read- ing, or perhaps just browsing through our first issue ofAnthony Alive. When I mentioned to a friend of mine the idea of starting a publica- tion on St. Anthony, she posed to me these questions: “Which St. Anthony?” “Why Anthony Alive now in 2007?” “Is there some sort of This Issue anniversary of St. Anthony in the coming months?” And many other April 2007 “whys” and “hows” were asked. INTRODUCTION I must say that these questions were very profitable, in that by Father Robert Kosek, CRSP they helped me formulate in my heart a sound raison d’être of the ST. ANTHONY’S DOCTRINE • The Life of a … publication’s birth. The answer to these questions are found in the • The Spiritual Treasures birth of a noble son, , many centuries ago, in the • The Teachings on PRAYER city of in Lombardy, . You are probably wondering • The Famous Sayings • The Constitutions of 1539 what the connection is between what took place in such a remote time and place and my current life. Let me explain. It’s a vital spiritual REFLECTIONS & MEDITATIONS… • Walking with St. Anthony connection. (cont.) by Fr. Tony Sarno • You Could Have a Life… by Mary Grace Jesus is Alive! • Prayer and Suffering… Alleluia! by Fr. Anthony Bianco, CRSP • Prayer Without Ceasing Jesus’ Resurrection is not by Mary Gambino merely a historic event that • Anthony’s Lift to God took place over two thousand by Sr. Rorivic P. Israel, ASP years ago, but is the ever- • Make Your Home in Me…

living reality that ought to be by Fr. Speranza • Prayer Is Placing Oneself… experienced in our hearts. by Fr. R. Delzingaro, CRSP In other words, Jesus lived, • Kids Page suffered, died, and was raised by Elizabeth, Peter, & from the dead so that He Matthew Gambino might live forever in the heart of each one of us, and we OUTSTANDING • A Servant of the Orphans: in Him. Yes, He came down Fr. Giovanni Semeria, CRSP from heaven to make us alive • Peace and Peace forever by his eternal life. by Fr. Giovanni M. MAY YOU HAVE A Semeria, CRSP BLESSED EASTER OBLATES OF SAINT PAUL From The Barnabite Fathers and St. James Parish, Oakville, Ont. the Staff of Anthony Alive. St.Introduction Anthony’s Doctrine St.Introduction Anthony’s Doctrine

“Do not think that my love for you or the good qualities you are endowed with, may have me desire that you be just little . No, I greatly desire that you become great saints, since you are well- equipped to reach this goal, if you will it. All that is required is that you really mean to develop and give back to Jesus Crucified, in a more refined form, the good qualities and graces He has given you.” (Zaccaria, Letter XI)

“Love alone is worth everything.” blessing to us! On many occasions we even call this What a bold statement for Saint Anthony Zaccaria person an “angel,” to indicate their heaven-like to make! How does this statement fit today’s so- qualities. The people of Cremona in the 1500’s had ciety where our love for Christ has become some- their own “Angel of God” in the person of Anthony what indifferent—no prayers allowed in schools, Zaccaria. This “Angel of God” was granted a power the commandments taken out of government to bring others to Christ and so empower them to be buildings, people trying to get “In God We Trust” ever alive in God. That “whoever is in Christ is a new off currency, etc., and, many times, it seems as if creation” (2 Cor 5,17). love has lost all its worth. I thought that perhaps now is the time to find once again the love of How and why was Saint Anthony blest with this God, which St. Anthony Zaccaria was so zealous amazing ability to love? about. Can you imagine encountering a person There is a simple and yet profound answer to these who not only made such a statement, but at the queries. Anthony Zaccaria earned his reputation of same time was willing to live by it? I can, because I “Angel of God” by his life-style, and witness to the have known more than one. For instance, a friend love of Christ, in prayer, poverty, preaching, and char- of mine related a story to me recently about a few ity. With time, people realized that his spirit was not incidents which occurred after returning from a of this world. His spirit was much more powerful. It pilgrimage. People would come up to her and ask: “Did you lose weight, or did you do something to your hair? There is something different about you. What is it?” After this happened time and again, she arrived at the fact that nothing physical had changed. So it must be that she fell in love with Jesus in an all-consuming way. She was, and con- tinues to be, on fire with the Spirit. I must admit that she just glows with the light of it as it burns bright within her.

Kasia The person who lives by love alone is able to

channel to us this power, and such a person is a Image by 2 3 St.Introduction Anthony’s Doctrine St.Introduction Anthony’s Doctrine

was the Spirit of the living God which empowered you are endowed with, may have me desire that Zaccaria to make people authentically “alive” in you be just little saints. No, I greatly desire that you Christ. His spirituality was like a magnet, drawing become great saints, since you are well-equipped people towards him to learn how to live by God’s to reach this goal, if you will it. All that is required love while still living in the world. To these faithful is that you really mean to develop and give back to followers his message was very intriguing and, at Jesus Crucified, in a more refined form, the good the same time, very appealing. qualities and graces He has given you” (Letter XI). You may think “That was then, but now it’s a dif- From whom did Anthony Zaccaria, this young ferent story. Let’s face it. I am not as blessed as they holy man, learn to love? were!” Think again. From God. For God “love alone is worth every- thing,” and has always been everything. This is It is true that during his short life Anthony was because “God is LOVE” (1J 4, 16). Love is God’s only able to be present in a limited number of language par excellence, through which He com- places and to talk and write to a restricted num- municates Himself to us. It is God’s desire that we ber of people. Yet, it is hard to believe that despite humans learn His language of love. “That is why these constraints present in the 1500’s, Zaccaria’s God came down from heaven to earth: ... O infinite message surmounted them all, and since then his love! God humbled Himself so much in order that message has been soaring high above any limits of man might love Him back, and through this love time and space reaching people everywhere. This be saved” (Sermon IV). Anthony would continu- publication is clear proof of this unwavering fact. ously teach that “without God’s love nothing can be accomplished, whereas everything depends on It is my wish and prayer that by reading Anthony His love” (ibid.). He was speaking from his experi- Alive, your heart may be enkindled with the flame ence of an ardent life of prayer. It was during these of that blazing holy fire of St. Anthony. May you long hours in the presence of the Divine teacher reach “the peak of holiness to which [God] wants and Friend, Jesus Crucified, that Anthony came to to lead you” (Letter XI) and so become alive in grasp that one’s relationship with Jesus ought to be Christ. characterized by love. However, for Anthony just Yours in Christ, to love God was not enough. For him, it had to be Fr. Robert B. Kosek, CRSP a love to the point of being called “crazy,” – like Holy Thursday, 5 April, 2007 the love of someone who is so madly in love, that it would last until death, death on the cross. Who can love like that? Are all people equipped to love God in such a passionate fashion? Or is this love just for the special elite?

In his wisdom, Anthony understood that reaching the summit of love – holiness as the primary object of spiritual life – is not less binding for than it is for priests and religious. Moreover, he strongly believed that the laity has been given by God all Kasia that it takes to reach this summit of love. “Do not

think that my love for you or the good qualities Image by 2 3 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Life of a Saint… St. Anthony’s Doctrine

The Life of a Saint— Anthony Mary Zaccaria

nthony Mary Zaccaria was born in 1502, in Cremona, a city Aof Lombardy, fifty miles southeast of . His patrician family probably originated in . His father, Lazzaro, died when Anthony Mary was two years old. His mother, Antonia Pescaroli, a widow at eighteen, devoted herself completely to the education of her son.

Little is known of Anthony Mary’s childhood. However, his biog- raphers have handed down a significant episode. One day, on his way home from school the boy gave his cape to a destitute man. It is not clear whether he studied the humanities in Cremona or in Pavia. What is certain is that in 1520 (incidentally, the year of Exsurge Domine, the papal bull that condemned Luther), he went to Padua to study philosophy and medicine. Before leaving for Padua, he irrevocably bequeathed his whole inheritance to his mother.

After graduation, he returned to Cremona, but never practiced medicine. A historically shadowy Dominican friar, Fra Marcello, became his spiritual director. The twenty-two-year old university graduate deliberately opted for an uncompromising and active Christian lifestyle. Contiguous to the Zaccaria residence, there was a small church, St. Vitalis. Here, Anthony Mary, still a layman, be- gan to gather on Sundays, first, children to teach them catechism; then, adults for Scripture reading and meditation. Later on, his spir- itual director steered him toward the priesthood. Under Domini- can guidance, Anthony Mary’s theological studies were thoroughly based on the Bible and Church Fathers and Doctors, particularly St. Thomas Aquinas. In January 1529, he was ordained to the priesthood. Surrounded by a few close relatives and friends and without the customary solemnity, he celebrated his first Mass in the church of St. Vitalis. According to a charming tradition, an- gels were seen around the altar.

His priesthood enabled him to refine and enhance his previous work in St. Vitalis. His audience evolved into a structured Oratory, possibly styled "Amicizia." To this R. Kosek group Anthony Mary preached his Sermons. One of his spiritual disciples was Valeria degli Alieri, a distant rela- Image by tive and a member of Anthony Mary’s Oratory. Under his 4 5 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Life of a Saint…

guidance she gathered a group of young women in her house and Anthony Mary became Milanese noblemen, Giacomo their spiritual director. After Antonio Morigia (1497-1546) his death, they obtained the and Bartolomeo Ferrari (1499- authorization to become a con- 1544). Toward the end of 1532, vent of the Angelic Sisters. he brought to maturity their common project of transform- In addition to his work of spiri- ing that waning oratory into tual direction and formation, a new and original religious Anthony Mary engaged in active community, consisting of three apostolate among the poor and families: priests, sisters, and lay the sick, particularly during the people. The priests’ family, Sons plague of 1528. This exertion of St. Paul, was quickly approved earned him the name "Father of by Clement VII on February 18, the City" from his townsmen. 1533 with the brief Vota per Meanwhile, Anthony Mary chose quae. It was highly unusual to a new spiritual director from the have a new religious family ap- Dominican monastery of Santa proved before it started function- Maria delle Grazie in Milan, ing. On July 24, 1535, with the Fra Battista Carioni da Crema bull Dudum felicis recordationis, (1460-1534), a disciple of Se- Paul III accorded them a second R. Kosek bastiano Maggi and a confrere of approval and their new religious Image by Gerolamo Savonarola. name of . After they took over the church of St. the name Angelics to which An- A few years earlier, Fra Battista in Milan in 1545, they thony Mary added "of St. Paul." persuaded Cajetan Thiene to were given the popular name of In October 1535, they settled in leave Vicenza and go to Barnabites. their first convent named after to engage in the work of reform. St. Paul, located in Milan. The At this time the Dominican friar In Milan, Countess Torelli began formal name of Angelics of St. was the confessor of Ludovica gathering in her house young Paul was approved by Paul III Torelli (1500-1569), Countess women inclined to the spiritual on August 6, 1545. At this time, of Guastalla. Quite probably, it life. Anthony Mary became their the Angelics were not cloistered was at his urging that Ludovica confessor and spiritual director. because they shared in the apos- chose Anthony Mary as her In this role, he steered them tolate of the Barnabites. chaplain. Accordingly, at the toward becoming the female direction of Fra Battista, An- family of his foundation. On The third family of Anthony thony Mary took up residence in January 15, 1535, Paul III, with Mary’s foundation consisted of Ludovica’s castle. a bull, Debitum pastoralis, au- lay people and was named Mar- thorized them to organize as a ried of Saint Paul. They shared In 1531, Ludovica, Anthony under the the same spirituality of the Mary, and Fra Battista went to Rule of St. Augustine. The new Barnabites and the Angelics. Milan where they joined the religious were briefly guided by Oratory of Eternal Wisdom. some Dominican Sisters and These three families soon be- Here Anthony Mary met two adopted their habit. They chose came known throughout Milan 4 5 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Life of a Saint… St. Anthony’s Doctrine because of their lifestyle, their closest friends, he spoke his last penitential practices, their way words and, comforted by the of dressing and their preaching of Christ, who can boast about Church’s sacraments, died, as he which was, at times, provocative. our sufferings, because those had predicted, on the octave of the Some of their initiatives later be- whom the world thinks com- feast of Saints Peter and Paul, July came customary in Milan, such mon and contemptible are the 5, 1539. A pious tradition holds as the ringing of bells at 3 p.m. ones God has chosen to show that, before expiring, Anthony on Fridays to commemorate the up those who are everything. Let Mary was granted a vision of St. death of the Lord on the cross. us not lose sight of Jesus, who Paul. They also actively promoted the endured the cross, disregarding solemn exposition of the Most its shamefulness, and we shall After a Cremona funeral, his body by touring prove that we are servants of was taken to Milan and buried in various city churches (the so- God by great fortitude in times St. Paul’s Convent of the Angel- called Forty Hours). of suffering, prepared for honor ics. His saintliness was instantly or disgrace, taken for impostors recognized, and he was venerated Not everyone in Milan was while we are genuine." as a Blessed until 1634, five years pleased with the zeal of this new short of a century, which would spiritual family. Its members It was after this bruising experi- have automatically given him the were threatened. They were ac- ence that the Sons of St. Paul, title of Saint. Instead, when Urban cused of Pelagianism and of who had begun common life VIII issued new rules being followers of controversial in the summer of 1534 but in 1634, Anthony Mary lost the Fra Battista (d. January 1, 1534). without the rule of poverty, popular title of Blessed. In 1802 They were also suspected of em- now embraced it without hesita- his cause was reintroduced. By bracing the heresies of the Be- tion. Similarly, in 1537, in the 1888 three miracles were about to guines and the Poor Men of Ly- course of the second trial, An- be approved for his official beatifi- ons. Milanese civil and Church thony Mary promptly accepted cation. An alert Barnabite cardinal, authorities intervened. Two tri- a request from the bishop of Vi- Giuseppe Granniello, close to als ensued. The first one, against cenza, Cardinal Nicola Ridolfi, Pope Leo XIII, obtained that An- the Sons of St. Paul, was held on and sent a group of his priests, thony Mary be beatified as a result October 5, 1534. It shelved the sisters, and married couples to of the previous 95 years of popular whole matter and issued no ver- reform the monasteries of that devotion (1539-1634). The three dict. The second one, against the city. miracles approved on February Sons of St. Paul and the Angelics 14, 1897 finally led to his canon- of St. Paul, began in June 1536 In May 1539, Anthony Mary was ization on May 27,1897. and was concluded on August back in Guastalla. The reason for his Copyright © 1998 Barnabite Fathers. 21, 1537 with full acquittal. return is controverted. In any event, Used by permission of Barnabite Fathers he was already in poor health, and USA . All rights reserved. It was a bracing experience for his exertions in Guastalla and the the Sons of St. Paul. On the eve of hot and humid climate of the lower the first trial, October 4, 1534, in Po Valley aggravated his condition. what could be termed his finest The last week of June, he felt so ill hour, Anthony Mary addressed that he requested to be taken home a crucial talk to his religious. to his mother in Cremona. "Here we are," he impassion- ately intoned, "fools for the sake Surrounded by his family and 6 7 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Spiritual Treasures…

The Spiritual Treasures of Introduction by Mary Grace, Saint Anthony Edited by Fr. Robert Kosek and Bernard Freitag

ith all the hype of today’s pirate movies, and Johnny WDepp’s on his ghostly pursuit of earthly treasures, isn’t it refresh- ing to learn of the spiritual treasures of St. Anthony Zaccaria? In the movies you see Johnny Depp searching for these lost treasures only to find them lacking his needs; He is going through eternity without the faintest idea that these treasures he seeks simply can- not fulfill his needs; they cannot enable him to reach his goals or

protect him from the evils of his mortal and immortal life. In ef- R. Kosek fect, he is going through eternity with an empty chest. Image by

As I read the treasures of St. Anthony presented by the Barnabite Fathers, I was struck with the thought that these treasures were indeed endless. Each time I go to the treasure chest, it is still full to the brim with spiritual gems that will enrich me even into eternity. Indeed, each time I share a jewel of wisdom from St. Anthony’s treasure, I am assured that instead of depleting the chest, I am actually increasing the treasure by perpetuating it. I cannot believe that I was blessed enough to find this treasure that has been buried for so long, and that it is truly endless in the knowledge and peace that fills me as only our Lord’s bounty can do.

These treasures of St. Anthony are most certainly the treasures of heaven for they are more valuable than any earthly possession. These treasures can never be disposed of because they live in my heart. They can- not be stolen or lost because they reside in the core of my spiritual self, making them the most precious of all treasures. These treasures teach of the true and only way to achieve the everlasting gifts of God. He gave us the most precious treasure of all time when He sent His son, our Lord Jesus, to redeem us. How could any earthly treasure compare to that?

St. Anthony shares his insights of his many blessings, and teaches us how to love God with our whole being. He shows us how to pray constantly and with great joy. He teaches us of God’s treasures within our reach, if only we give of ourselves. So I say to you, run like a crazy person away from sin and towards God’s open arms. I know that as I use these treasures in my every- day life, I become richer in spirit, and love. I have been blessed, praise God! R. Kosek Image by 6 7 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Spiritual Treasures… St. Anthony’s Doctrine

you’re doing. While still dealing with the interruption, you might Suggestions for living in say: “I’m almost done.” You can a busy world and still also do this in relating to God Saint Anthony Zaccaria, what living spiritually in during your daily activities, and moves you to write these sugges- you’ll see that your activities are tions for me? God’s love. not affected at all. What’s even witness to the one living pattern more significant is that your Love! Yes, love inspires of Christ (Gal 2:20). As a result friendship with God will grow me to write these words one can say with the Apostle, “be deeper and become more real. of wisdom and courage imitators of me, as I am of Christ” Then, and only then, will you be for you. (1 Cor 4:16), as if he were saying, praying continually, even while “Are you looking for a living mod- drinking, eating, acting, talking, I don’t want you to fall victim to el of Christ? Well, look at me.” studying, writing, etc.; and the half-heartedness, but rather to external actions will not hinder become ever more centered in the interior ones and vice versa. the love of Christ. I must tell you this, so that you will become a follower and believer of the Holy What practical commitments will Spirit, and not fall victim to the help me find time to pray during corruption of today’s society. my numerous daily activities? How do I develop a habit to be- gin all my activities with prayer? To allow yourself to lapse into If you want to maintain an ever- the wickedness of this world close relationship with God and, Before starting any activity, offer would be wrong and unchristian. at the same time, continue work- Jesus a few words of your choos- ing, talking, thinking, reading, ing; then during your work often and taking care of your affairs as lift up your mind to God. usual, make a habit of frequently thinking of God. First and foremost watch how What is the true nature of the anything concerning yourself, spiritual life? This can be for a long or a short or others, is begun. Whether at time as you would do while work or at play, first go to God True spiritual life consists of this: spending time in the presence of with a short prayer with which that one keep his eyes on God all your best friend. How do you do He may inspire you. Do this the time, long for nothing but this? mentally or in words that ex- God, keep nothing in mind but press your thoughts and wishes, God, begin every single action in Let us say that you are in the or things that are comfortable for the Lord’s name, and direct it to company of your friend, and you. Then while working, think- Him (Col 3:17). In short, that something comes up. You might ing, or planning, frequently lift one unifies his whole being— say, “Excuse me while I deal with up your mind to God. Should mind, will, memory, senses, and this. If you can wait, I’ll be back your activity be tedious or long, actions—to God. In the spiritual as soon as I’m done.” Then, even break it up, perhaps by taking life the soul is led by the Spirit though you’re dealing with the in- time to say a “Hail Mary,” or as of God as the body is led by the terruption, you pause, look at him it may seem convenient to you, soul. The Spirit Himself bears and say something about what following God’s inspiration. 8 9 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Spiritual Treasures…

Depending on the length of Dear friend in Christ, since your your activity, you can interrupt professional activity is quite your work more than once. binding, taking much of your If you follow this practice you time and energy, necessity sug- will be praying incessantly, even gests choosing a suitable meth- while drinking, eating, acting, od of prayer. That’s why I talking, studying, writing, would like you to prac- etc.; and the external tice, as much as you actions will not hin- can, the following der the interior ones suggestions: and vice versa. “IC XC+,” First, give yourself Notably, on top of each handwritten page, Anthony Mary penned an to prayer in the invocation. Usually, it was the monogram “IC XC+,” the initial morning and at and last letters of IHSOYC XRISTOC, Greek for Jesus Christ, night, as well as a graphic symbol from Byzantine tradition. The ad- at any other hour How do I deal with dis- ditional cross means CRUCIFIED. within a set schedule tractions during prayer? or not, at any time, that is, day or night, in any posi- By nature we find it difficult to tion, that is, in bed or out of be focused and, much more so, it, kneeling or sitting or as you to be united with God while think best, and most of all be- praying. Why? Because our fore you start your professional spirit is naturally pulled in dif- How do I grow in love with work, usually without any set ferent directions and one is un- God? order, for a short or a long time, able to focus on a single thing. as God may grant it to you. The exercise of lifting up one’s In order for you to grow more soul to God (through prayer) is, deeply in love with God, it is Then, discuss with Christ every- of course, more difficult for the necessary, first, to love your thing that may be happening to person who has gotten into the neighbor. That is why we have you: your doubts and your dif- bad habit of being distracted. It to run like crazy not only toward ficulties, especially the hardest is my contention that the most God but also toward our neigh- ones. Present to Him your rea- difficult thing for anybody is to bor. If we live according to the sons, thoroughly but as briefly find oneself involved in activi- corporal acts of mercy, that is as possible. Then, only propose ties that, by their very nature, are clothing the naked, feeding the to Him the solution you think not conducive to union with hungry, etc., we will love as God is the right one or, even better, God, and which can be distract- loves and as He desires us to love ask for His opinion; for He will ing. Who would think it pos- Him. not refuse if you gently insist. I sible to stand in the rain and can assure you that He will let not get wet? Yet what seems to Himself be compelled to give it be impossible in itself becomes to you, if, again, you really want very easy with God’s help if only to have it. we do not refuse Him our coop- What is the best way, and the eration and that diligent practi- best place where I can continue cal commitment with which He to develop my relationship with has endowed us. the Lord? Barnabite Spiritual Center • Bethlehem, PA 8 9 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Teaching of St. Anthony… St. Anthony’s Doctrine

The Teachings on… to “active life and contemplative life.” Vocal prayer Translated by Fr. Frank Papa, is “imperfect”; mental prayer is “perfect”. They are … CRSP. Abridged by Sr. Rorivic P. two “means” which must be “seasoned one with P Israel, ASP the other”, and their aim is to lead us to a full com- munion with God (Dialogo, 66). “For anyone seriously concerned about becoming profi- cient in the spiritual life, mental prayer is a must. You B. Mental Prayer can, in fact, affirm without any shadow of a doubt that Mental prayer is called “interior prayer and true no one will ever make any progress if he does not dedi- prayer”. St. Anthony Mary affirms that “mental cate himself to and delight in it, no matter how many prayer is the food and the nourishment of the profi- psalms and other prayers he may mechanically recite all cient” (Cs X, 168), assuming in this way that medi- day long.” tation is the food of the beginners, and contempla- [Constitutions, (Cs) X; 168] tion of the perfect. If prayer is food, it means that it is needed to make progress in spiritual life: “Mental prayer is so necessary that ... one could undoubt- edly conclude that he who does not dedicate him- self to it and does not find delight in it—I say—will inevitably make no progress... Therefore, if you do not nourish yourselves with it, without doubt you will feel losing your strength.” (Cs X, 168).

Kinds of Prayer There are “four kinds of prayer and of spiritual nour- Vocal Prayer and Mental Prayer ishment of the mind” (Cs X, 171): prayer in its truest sense, petition, intercession, and thanksgiving. St. Anthony Zaccaria distinguishes vocal prayer and mental prayer. a. Prayer Prayer is simply a dialogue with God: “Let each one A. Vocal Prayer strive, though with closed lips, to pray to God and Vocal prayer, known also as exterior prayer, “has reveal to Him all his thoughts, as a friend is accus- been devised in order that we, inspired by its taste tomed to do with another friend” (Cs X, 168). St. and meaning, may at last begin to learn interior Anthony Mary recommends this exercise: “(I wish prayer. If it is done right, that is, if one captures its for you) to talk with Christ about all your present taste (affective dimension), and its meaning (intel- happenings, even doubts and difficulties, espe- lectual dimension), vocal prayer is not an end in cially tough doubts, exposing to Him all possible itself, but subordinated to the interior one. Vocal reasons.... Talk and chat in a familiar way, as you prayer alone, especially if it does not lead us to would with me, with Christ Crucified, and ask Him mental prayer, or does not partake of the latter, only for advice” (Letter III, 23). make us feel good superficially and is only a coun- terfeit of true prayer and true spiritual food” (Cs b. Petition X, 168). On the relationship between vocal prayer One of the traditional definitions of prayer sounds and mental prayer, they go together as compared as: “petitio decentium a Deo -- request from God of 10 11 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Teaching of St. Anthony… useful things” (John Damascene, De fide 169). The second condition is the reading orthodoxa, 3, 24; cf Summa Th, II. II, 83, and the meditation of devout things: “Take 1.5.17). In prayer, the request is essential: care to nourish your mind with thoughts of “Therefore, show and ask God in your words what compunction, for example, thoughts of the Passion you need and what you would like to have in abun- of Christ, on the sorrows of the Blessed Mother, and dance; what He judges to be more useful to your dear the like.... If you want to aquire easily the habit of friends, and to the Universal Church” (Cs X, 169). praying mentally, read pious subjects, think of them, and find delight in pondering continuously c. Intercession over holy things. Examples of these devout things Intercession corresponds to the obsecratio in Vul- are: ‘the marvelous variety of created things,’ the gata. “The intersession takes place when the pray- ‘different beauty’ of creatures, ‘God’s infinite Provi- ing soul appears malevolent towards God, like Mo- dence,’ ‘Christ moving Passion’ “ (Cs X, 170-171). ses” (Famous Sayings, XIX,14). Anthony Mary says: “ In order that God may easily hear your prayer, offer to Him the precious Blood of Christ and the merits The Fruits of Prayer of the Saints, and the very love He has for mankind” The fundamental effect of prayer is the interior en- (Cs X, 169). lightenment of the one who practices it: “Prayer and meditation enlighten the soul” (Cs XVIII, 199). To d. Thanksgiving be enlightened is the essential condition for the one Thanksgiving is the highest prayer; the “perfect who wants to become a master and guide for others. level of prayer.” “It can be assumed then that a “The one who lacks (it) should not presume to lead person must go beyond the various ways of prayer others!... Let no one think that he can lead someone and dwell in continous thanksgiving” (ibid., XIX, else if he himself is blind; otherwise, both of them 20). These words indicate that thanksgiving , more will fall in a pit.” than an act, is a “state.” As St. Anthony Mary says, “By doing so, you will finally be able to reach the Prayer indicates to man, first of all, what to do: state of prayer which has its origin in intention, de- “Prayer and meditation keep one steady before the votion, and experience. And presence of God; that is why one knows what is this is the state of prayer profitable to do or leave aside.” Secondly, “prayer which consists in always teaches man how to carry on what he originally was giving thanks to God” (Cs told to do: continuous meditation and the spirit of X, 169). prayer will teach you after a while to begin to do something so as to lead others where you are going. Prayer does not permit anyone who wants to walk Conditions for Prayer to fall into error and successfully leads anyone who “If you want to pray well, wishes to make progress” (ibid, 198-199). first detach yourself from things of the world, purify yourself from your passions which deprive the soul In his sermon, St. Anthony Mary indicates another ef- of trust in prayer, then prepare yourself for prayer fect of prayer: the divinization of man. “You talk and through meditation” (Famous Sayings, XIX,4). converse with God; and without lying you can call yourself a God on earth” (Sermon II, 85). Among the conditions for prayer, St. Anthony Mary Published in Italian under the titled “Prontuario Per Lo Spirito: Inseg- puts silence above all. “Do you want to learn (to namenti ascetico-mistici di sant’Antonio Maria Zaccaria” by Antonio M pray)? Restrain your tongue from superflous or Gentili & Giovanni M. Scalese. Editrice Àncora Milano, 1994. even necessary talk, and in this way you will begin to talk with God as you talk with a friend” (Cs X, Used with permission: Roberta Negroni, Ufficio Diritti Àncora Editrice 10 11 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Famous Sayings… St. Anthony’s Doctrine

The Famous Sayings on… … Translations: Prayer introduction by Fr. Frank Papa, CRSP The Famous Sayings by Mary Grace & Fr. Robert B. Kosek, CRSP

INTRODUCTION In 1583, a collection of Famous Sayings, listed in alphabetical order by key terms, was published in Venice under St. Anthony M. Zaccar- ia’s name. This collection is attributed by the scholars to his spiritual director, Fra Battista da Crema. Without excluding the role of Zacca- ria in the least, its editor not only gives a glimpse of his doctrine, but has constituted the source from which the disciples of Anthony Mary have absorbed his spirit until the beginning of the last century, when the Zaccarian writings became available.

We can classify these sayings into two categories: those with an asceti- cal flavor, and those with a mystical flavor.

The ascetical part offers an excellent and profound psychological analysis, and many theologians have admired the sublimity of the concepts expressed in so few phrases.

The author has powerful insights into the mystery of the human heart. In a few strokes of his pen, he offers us a vivid and fearful picture of the condition of some religious communities of his time. This allows us an easier understanding of the deplorable condition of decadent religious congregations. Especially in the chapters on lukewarmness, discretion, and the Religious, the author reminds, and warns, the reader about numerous false Religious animated by diabolic hate for followers of the Rule. The language is careful but energetic and truthful.

St. Anthony does not want the religious to be satisfied with medita- tion, instead before the end of prayer he wants the religious to peti- tion and obtain the effects in the heart. No one could fault him for R. Kosek this, since St. Anthony Zaccaria is not satisfied with affective prayer,

Image by but demands mystical prayer for one’s own satisfaction. 12 13 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Famous Sayings…

Prayer God for any reward in this life, 8. Usually the beloved does not or the next? 1. Prayer is the elevation of the withhold anything from his mind to God. You can imag- loved one, unless it allows him 11. What good thing could God ine how valuable such a prayer more abundant graces. Hence, deny us, when He is the one who could be. However, one who our petition must be placed in invites and spurs us to ask? does not elevate the mind does the hands of Christ; in this way not pray but stammers and falls it will have better success than if 12. In an effort to obtain what asleep. done according to our will. you pray for, adapt yourself to your petition because you will 2. The one who, in prayer, thinks 9. Our petition is just and dis- not obtain humility if you avoid about himself and other things creet when it is entrusted to- humiliations. is distracted without obtaining tally in the hands of our beloved any fruit, and has not yet tasted Christ. 13. Prayer consists in the spirit the virtue of prayer. present in your heart. So, do not 10. If one would honestly know use lack of understanding writ- 3. Prayer is a bond through himself, how could he petition ten prayer as an excuse for not which the soul unites itself to praying. the beloved Christ, unaware of itself or anyone else. 14. A supplication takes place when the praying soul appears 4. If you want to pray well, first malevolent towards God, like detach yourself from things of Moses, without any consider- the world, purify yourself from ation for self or for convenience. your passions which deprive the soul of trust in prayer, then pre- 15. When God induces the soul pare yourself for prayer through to supplication, first He lowers it meditation. through perfect humility, then He raises it with the hope for 5. The prayer through which obtaining what one prays for. we honor God is good, but the breath of life which God 16. If the imperfect petitioner prays within us is a much better is not granted his prayer, he prayer. complains against God, even if it is to his detriment that it be 6. The aspiration prayer is not granted. known to the Demon but it is useful, and as praiseworthy as a 17. Some, in their petitions, say, long prayer of many. “Lord, grant me what you would grant to yourself if you were in 7. Often a truly prayerful person me and I in you.” They should will approach Christ to ascertain be aware that this is dangerously his own state as pleasing or dis- The first cover page of The Famous Sayings of St. presumptuous and self-centered. Anthony, Venice 1583 pleasing to Him. 12 13 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Famous Sayings… St. Anthony’s Doctrine

18. Some people think to pray, that they have been granted saying, “I absolutely want this, more by the denied favor than and I want it now.” This is very noble exercise because when the by the granted one. The one who displeasing to God. soul feels its prayers are always has reached this level knows the granted, the petition diminishes, divine goodness, and providence 19. The one who receives more but the experience of heavenly in himself. than he asks is afraid of suffo- graces increases. cating by the abundance of the 26. When bad things happen, gifts, just as the body chokes on 23. The one who has reached the soul gains more thanking the abundance of food. this level recognizes the antici- God, than making constant re- pated divine favors yet he does course to good petitions. 20. It can be assumed then that a not thank God less in his abun- person must go beyond the vari- dance than in his want, or less 27. The one who complains for ous ways of prayer and dwell in when He grants them than when not receiving, or wants to tell continuous thanksgiving. He denies them. God how to grant, or is disturbed by some doubts, or feels his pe- 21. It is not a surprise that St. 24. The most pleasing thanksgiv- titions are not always answered, Dominic always had his prayers ing to God, either for the thing does not deserve to reach this answered, since he always granted or for the thing denied, perfect state. thanked God. can be more easily recognized as the more intensely one acknowl- 28. If you desire to reach this 22. Older and experienced edges what he has been granted. perfect level of prayer, then you people sometimes ebb from must obtain the breaking of their prayers, petitions, and 25. God usually grants this grace your will, either on your own supplications to pass to a more to His beloved who understand or through others, and abandon yourself completely and joyfully to the will of God, respectfully trusting His great gen- erosity

29. If you want to reach this level, you must have perfect victory over every passion, and over your very self.

30. If through perfect humility you will be able to know objec- tively yourself, only then will you be able to obtain this level.

Image by R. Kosek 14 15 St. Anthony’s Doctrine St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Constitutions…

The Constitutions of 1539 on… …Prayer by St. Anthony Zaccaria X On Prayer For anyone seriously concerned about becoming proficient in the spiritual life, mental prayer is a must. You can, in fact, affirm without any shadow of a doubt that no one will ever make any progress if he does not dedicate himself to and delight in it, no matter how many psalms and other prayers he may mechanically recite all day long. You must know, my brothers, that mental prayer is the food and nourishment of those progressing on the way to perfection. There- fore, if you do not feed your spirit with it, you are inevitably going to fail on the way.

Vocal prayer alone, especially if it does not lead us to mental prayer or does not partake of the latter, only makes us feel good superficially and is only a counterfeit of true prayer and true spiritual food. And you can understand this by observing that, when you neglect mental prayer, you remain the very ones you were before, namely, shallow in your conversation, negligent in your works, and imperfect in every- thing.

Prayer Therefore, let everybody endeavor, with tight lips, to pray mentally to God, and present Him one’s thoughts as a friend to a friend. But, note that exterior, or vocal, prayer has been devised in order that we, inspired by its taste and meaningfulness, may at last begin to learn interior prayer.

Petition Mentally ask God for what you need and for what you would like to have more abundantly; and for what He judges to be more useful to your dear friends and to the Church Universal.

Supplication In order that God may more easily hear your prayer, offer to Him the precious Blood of Christ and the merits of all the saints and the very love He has for mankind.

Thanksgiving By giving thanks, you will finally be able to reach that state of prayer 14 15 St. Anthony’s Doctrine The Constitutions… Refl ections and Meditations which has its origin in intention, devotion, bring humiliations upon yourselves; fi nd and experience. This is the state of prayer delight in being mocked; rejoice in inferior which consists in always giving thanks to things. You wish to have patience. Desire God. tribulations and sufferings; for where there is no tribulation or pain, there is no patience either. When you have reached this point, you will know You might ask: “On what subjects can our spirits that you are granted your requests even before mak- dwell during mental prayer?” I would answer: on ing them. You will know that you have received the marvelous variety of created things, their dif- much more than that which you have asked for. You ferent beauty, God’s infi nite Providence, Christ’s will know that your prayers are always heard. moving Passion; and, in short, on a thousand and one things which are there challenging the minds Certainly, my brothers, there would be reason to of those willing to consider them. wonder if someone among you should say: “I do not know how to pray mentally.” Do you want to Mark this, though, my brothers: If you want to learn how? Refrain your tongue from superfl uous acquire easily the habit of praying mentally, read and even necessary talk, and then you will begin to pious subjects, think of them, and fi nd delight in be able to talk with God as you talk with a friend. pondering continuously over holy matters.

Someone else will perhaps say: “I feel no delight at Now then, if you wish to understand why some of the beginning of my mental prayer.” My answer is: you are unable to carry the burden of religious life Take care to nourish your mind with thoughts of without the aforementioned fourfold prayer—the compunction as, for example, thoughts on the Pas- soul’s spiritual nourishment—look at those who sion of Christ, on the sorrows of the Blessed Moth- neglect mental prayer, and see how easily they fail er, and the like. But, if even in this way you do not in their duties and are full of defects. Therefore, succeed to concentrate on remorseful thoughts, we want and establish that, for at least two hours do persist in prayer and do not turn away from it between morning and night, we give ourselves to even with just the intention of your spirit. Sooner prayer, without getting involved in any other activ- or later you will obtain what you desire, on condi- ity. Besides those hours, we earnestly beg you to tion, though, that you always humble yourself and have your minds constantly concentrated on God, recognize yourself unworthy of such a state. entertaining positive thoughts as you eat or do something else. You might ask: “How can the mind And again you will say: “We would like to receive and the hand simultaneously do different things?” what we ask for.” And I reply: Believe so, and you And I answer you: Do you wish to understand this? will receive that and greater things besides. And I do not say, “Look at it,” but, “touch it with your never stop asking, for no one will ever obtain own hands.” When you lived in the world, even what he wants if he fails to persist in his petitions. while eating or working, your minds were at times Furthermore, do you want your petitions granted? thinking of how to make some material gain, or Conform your souls to your petitions, as for in- how to take revenge, or to think of some friends, or stance: you wish to have compunction. Cherish of something else. Well then, you have no other al- recollection. You wish to have humility. Willingly ternative but to do out of ingenuity and good will what you, at other times, used to do out of bad habit or negligence.

16 17 St. Anthony’s Doctrine Refl ections and Meditations Walking with…

Walking with St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria by Fr. Tony Sarno, CRSP

n this series, I plan to give a brief meditation helps us to see each trivial inconvenience and fi gure out basedI upon quotes from the writings of St. An- the mystery behind it so it can be eradicated. We then thony Mary Zaccaria. The quote will be in bold are capable of overcoming and correcting our trivial letters. After each quote, I will list where it can be faults because we can now see them clearly as they are found in his writings. The words in italics are the individually. Being on a cell phone or our computers, meditation. Read it carefully and slowly. Ruminate or what we call soft pornography, can actually take us upon it. The last part consists of some questions away from God and our addiction makes it diffi cult to based upon the meditation for you to examine in break away. We need God to help us to stay always on the secret of your heart. track with God and to disentangle those things that keep us away from God. “God destroys all the sophistic stratagems” by disentangling all the intrigues (mysteries) of the sophisms (trivial inconveniences and shortcom- ings) of modern men, which seem “intent in separating man from God” (Letter III). Questions for Examination: Think of the word “disentangle.” Have you ever had 1) In what ways are you tangled so that you are wires, especially from Christmas decorations, that are bound and chained in your own sinfulness? all knotted up together? It really is frustrating getting 2) How has God helped you in the past to over- them apart. They have become tangled. Separating come your shortcomings and failings? these wires is the disentangling. St. Anthony Zaccaria 3) Is there anything (some obsession you may is saying that somehow God takes apart, disentangles, have) that is fogging your vision in order for you to those things that bind us all up, those things that do see your spiritual state clearly? not allow us the freedom to be who we are supposed to be. We are chained. “Intrigues” denotes mystery taking place in the darkness of the night with the fog slowly coming in. God is able to take these mysteries and sepa- rate them and free us, so that we can be with God. It is the intrigues of all those little trivial things (sophisms) that together have bound and chained us so that we cannot get to God. Let us get rid of all that does not lead us to God. Only with God’s help can this be done. God

16 17 Reflections and Meditations You Could Have… Reflections and Meditations

You Could Have a Life of Prayer Rather Than a Prayer Life by Mary Grace I say, you have every minute that God gives you hen I was approached to write this ar- in a day to pray. Wticle, I was at first apprehensive. I thought that You could have a anyone who read it would think that I was crazy. life of prayer rather than a prayer life. I say, God However, after reading some of St. Anthony Zacca- is everywhere, especially with us, in all that we ria’s letters, I felt assured that I was living as he did do, through partaking of the when we in his prayer life. I now know that I am “running bring Him into our very selves. Certainly, there are like a madman towards Christ” (Letter II). If that times and places more conducive to contemplative makes me crazy, so be it because I am happier than prayer but, if we wait until we “have the time” or I have ever been in my life. I have found such peace are in just the “right place” we miss so many oppor- that I want to share it with others. Let me start by tunities God gives us for prayer. So much emphasis sharing a little about myself. I am a 54 year-old has been put on “quality time” that we think that woman. I am now a stay–at–home caretaker of a any time not planned for a certain task is not good 90 year-old mother, (24/7), and a six month-old enough. Do we really have to make a “play date” child, (60 hrs per-week). In the past year, I have with Christ to feel His presence? Can we only pray given up a very successful business that I ran for in allotted places and times? 32 years. I sold my home, and moved almost 600 miles to a new life. I did this because I felt it was St. Anthony Zaccaria offers unmistakable answers what God intended; it was one of the most diffi- in his letter to Mr. Carlo Magni, dated July 28, cult things I have ever done, and definitely out of 1531 in which he writes: “Give yourself to prayer my “comfort zone.” What motivated me was most in the morning and at night, as well as at any other assuredly the will of God. His plan is not always hour within a set schedule or not, at any time, that clear, but through prayer I was able to let go and let is, day or night, in any position, that is, in bed or God. My Lord has always been a guiding light but I out of it, kneeling or sitting or as you think best, recently found that if I am to live as He wills I must and most of all before you start your professional listen more and pray incessantly. work, usually without any set order, for a short or a long time, as God may grant it to you.”

I say, you have every Let me share with you how I live my life of prayer. This took a conscious effort on my part in the begin- minute that God gives ning, but is now so ingrained that it is automatic. you in a day to pray. In all things you do, lift them up to the Lord. When I awaken, before my feet hit the floor, I thank God You could have a life for bringing me through the night and ask Him to of prayer rather than a bring me through the day if it His will. As I put things in order, I pray that I may put order into my prayer life. spiritual life. When I dust, I ask God to make my 18 19 Reflections and Meditations ReflectionsReflections and and MeditationsMeditations You Could Have…

heart and head free of the cobwebs that could cloud my purpose in life. As I vacuum, I ask that my life does not become a vacuum for sins and mediocrity, but that I suck up all the blessings sent my way, and be thank- ful for them. While I am doing the laundry, I thank God for washing my sins clean with the blood of Christ. As I remove the clothes from the dryer, I think of the warmth of God’s love and give Him thanks and praise. As I prepare meals, I always feel close to our Lord because of the Eucharist. This is a powerful one for me as I feel His presence in my kitchen. I give Him thanks and praise for His abun- dant Grace, for the food I am about to cook, for the people in my life that I share the meal with, for our health and well-being. I ask His continued presence in our home and hearts. In all things, I ask His guidance. We are a soci- ety of multitasking people. Let’s put this gift to use in a godly fashion.

Do not be afraid to take God to work with you. Make every day “a bring God to work day,” and you will see a big difference in how you approach your work.

As I end this article, it is my most fer- vent prayer that it brings an idea to some of those reading it how to incorporate prayer into their lives. Through living a life of prayer, we bring life into our faith, and faith into our lives.

18 19 Image by R. Kosek Reflections and Meditations Prayer and Suffering… Reflections and Meditations

Prayer and Suffering Must Never Be Separated by Fr. Anthony Bianco, CRSP

few days ago, I was 79 (22 February), which makes me the fourth oldest in a groupA of 20 priests here at the Holy Family Villa for Retired Priests in Bethlehem, Pennsyl- vania (USA). It reminds me of the Erasmus adage; ipsa senectus morbus est, “old age itself is equal to infirmity.” I do feel the limitations of age, the inability to move around, to do priestly ministry as I used to up to two years ago. A bout with depression, combined with the preexistence of diabetes that is difficult to control even now, has slowed me down considerably. However, I still do some ministry for priests and laity. Although, what remains without interruption is prayer. Here there is no limitation! Listening and talking to God. God, the center of creation, the Lord of history, the Lord and center of my personal life. Here, I have plenty of time to remember, and see the merciful, encouraging, and joy-giving hand of God in my childhood and youth, and during my 56 years of priesthood and my 63 years of reli- gious life as a Barnabite.

When I see so many vocations gone sour, I am extremely grateful to God for keeping His mighty hand ever over my head. And I look at the future—whatever it may be—with confidence and hope. I could say with St. Paul, “Cupio dissolvi et esse cum Christo,’’ “my desire is to depart and be with Christ“ (Phil 1, 23), but I can also pray for patience and not rush into anything. Patience saves me from monotony.

First of all, there is the prayer of the Church: The Holy Eucharist , and the Divine Office. I concelebrate Mass every day and I pray the Divine Office faithfully every day as well. The Real Presence and the example of the Saints fill my every day. Every week we have a Holy Hour in our chapel. Through EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network—a Catholic TV Channel), I have the opportunity to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the Holy Rosary, and to listen to the inspiring meditations of Fr. Leo Clifford. I should say that meditation becomes my favorite form of prayer, thinking of the past and projecting into the future, into the most loving hands of the Father. Prayer and suffering—any kind of suffering—must never be separated. They go hand in hand.

20 21 Reflections and Meditations Reflections and Meditations Prayer Without Ceasing

Prayer when you have finished it.”

Without The routine of several practices Ceasing throughout our busy hours can by Mary Gambino easily make prayer become a habit. A lovely way to begin the day is to enter into quiet prayer n the midst of our modern before the world is awake. We livesI how do we heed St. Paul’s can set the tone for the hours be- advice to pray without ceasing? fore us with a morning offering There are many easy and beau- prayer, the Liturgy of the Hours, tiful ways to fill our days with spiritual reading or Lectio Divi- prayer so that our days them- na. Perhaps a combination of selves can become prayer. St. several methods, as time allows. Teresa of Avila describes prayer We should ask our Guardian as nothing more than a conver- Angel to help us throughout the sation between friends: a lifting day, and then we should remem- of the mind and heart to God. ber to depend on and thank our angel for favors received. Saint Josemaria Escriva tells us, “It is clear that to seek sanctity in As the world wakes we can greet the middle of this world does not each other and, silently, the consist simply in doing or mul- Guardian Angel of each person tiplying devotions or pious prac- we meet. We should ask the tices. It lies in an effective union Lord’s blessing on the first meal with the Lord which such ac- of the day. Whether at home or tions promote and to which they in a restaurant, we should always are ordained. And when there is give thanks at mealtime. Our an effective union with the Lord, public witness serves as a visual this affects the whole of one’s prayer for others. In seeing us activity. These practices will lead pray, others lift their minds and you, almost without your real- hearts to God. If we have chil- izing it, to contemplative prayer. dren, and they attend school, we Your soul will pour forth more should pray together as a family, acts of love, aspirations, acts of before they leave for the day. If thanksgiving, act of atonement, the children are home schooled, spiritual communions and this we should begin each day with will happen while you go about prayer and reflection on scrip- your ordinary duties, when you ture, feast days, or spiritual read- answer the telephone, get on a ing. Throughout the day, we try bus, open or close a door, pass to remember and reflect on the R. Kosek in front of a church, when you morning prayers.

begin a new task, during it and Image by While we move about our busy 20 21 Reflections and Meditations Prayer Without Ceasing Reflections and Meditations

day, whether at work or at home, it is easy to re- We can ask Saint Paul, who came up with this member to lift our minds and hearts to God if we idea of ceaseless prayer, for help. The saints each have several “reminders” placed where we are sure struggled for sanctity and won the battle. They to see them (e.g. some holy cards tucked into a are pleased to help us in our struggle as well. My desk drawer and wallet; several statues and holy favorite saint, and an extremely powerful interces- pictures placed around sor, is Saint Martha. the home and car). She is well-known for When we see these im- her struggle for holi- ages, we “pray” simply ness amid a busy do- by mentally saying, Prayer of St. Gertrude the Great mestic life. The loving “Jesus, I love You”, reproach of her dear “Mary, Mother of God, friend Jesus was earned use me this day”, or Eternal Father, I offer you the not because she was ac- “Jesus, Mary and Jo- tively doing too much, seph, save souls”. A most precious blood of Your but because she had quick mental “hello”, Divine Son, Jesus, in union with become anxious about “thank you” or “help doing it. I depend on me” is also prayer. the masses said throughout the St. Martha to help me world today, for all the holy reflect on Jesus in my We can also use our busyness and offer my surroundings to re- souls in purgatory, for sinners weariness to Him. She mind us to pray. helps me to befriend Whenever we pass a everywhere, for sinners in the her Dear Friend. She , we Universal Church, those in knows His friendship can greet Our Lord by and is eager to share making the sign of the my own home and within my it. I enjoy seeing her cross to acknowledge family. Amen. image on my kitchen His presence there and windowsill where mentally say, “Jesus, (We can add “and within this I’m reminded of her I love you”, or “Jesus, cemetery.”) privileged place in Our I believe in Your Real Savior’s Heart. Presence in the Blessed Sacrament”. Likewise, when we pass a cemetery, we A temptation of our modern society is to be too can say a prayer for the Holy Souls. Our Lord gave busy most of the time. In order to grow in our St. Gertrude the Great a prayer which will release prayer and spiritual lives, we must not give in to 1,000 souls from purgatory each time it is said. this temptation. We can only listen to the Lord When we hear an ambulance or pass a hospital, we in silence. Therefore, it is wise to set aside some can say a prayer for the souls inside. What a com- quiet time during the day for prayer and recollec- fort it would be if we were inside and knew there tion. At this time, we might continue the Liturgy of were people praying for us! the Hours with Evening Prayer, pray the rosary or perhaps spend some time intimately with the Lord We should depend on the saints to help us to pray. 22 23 Reflections and Meditations Reflections and Meditations Prayer Without Ceasing

before the Blessed Sacrament. Remember that the Blessed Mother “pondered all things in her heart”. We can imitate her when we allow quiet into our lives. We can practice being quiet by turning off the televi- sion, radio, iPod, computer, and cell phone. Simply being quietly available to the Lord, and listening for Him, is prayer. Some days, of course, there just isn’t time to draw away with the Lord. On those days, the rosary can be said while driving home from work, or we could listen to a recording of spiritual reflections in the car. When our schedules won’t allow for daily mass, we should make a spiritual communion so that Jesus knows that we want to receive Him. Finally, we can help the children with their nightly prayers so that their slumber will be filled with holy thoughts.

A peaceful habit to conclude the day is similar to the way we began: in quiet prayer and recollection. Now is the time for an examination of conscience, concluding the Liturgy of the Hours with Night Prayer and spiritual reading. We can ask ourselves where and when we felt the Lord’s presence during the day. Per- haps the rosary can be said if we hadn’t time for it before. We can always say our rosary in parts through- out the day: One decade in the morning, two or three more in the car, a decade in the afternoon and the last decade at night.

The more we consciously strive for prayer in our lives, the easier it becomes. It is the Lord who inspires us to desire Him more and more. All we need to do is to dispose ourselves to receive Him worthily. We do this by frequent reception of the sacraments, praying and practicing “quiet.” By including several “holy habits” in our daily routines, we will find that we begin to live in union with the Lord, with Saint Paul’s help, to pray without ceasing.

22 Image by R. Kosek23 Reflections and Meditations Anthony’s Lift… Reflections and Meditations

“Can I give you a lift?” God to Lift Anthony’s by Sr. Rorivic P. Israel, ASP

he many doubts and uncertainties we experi- Tence often make us ride on in life, no matter what the consequences may be. We get along with any- thing, making us apathetic of what may befall. It is likely a disconcerting moment when we lose any sense of perception and right judgment to what is occurring in our life. Certainly, such kind of “ride” does not lead us to a better end. However, how many of us do choose it? St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, in his teachings, delin- We know in the deepest recesses of our hearts that eates to us an ever-practical way of letting God be the “safer ride” we could take is to let God be part God in our life. Truly, his “lift” goes far beyond tak- of our life. God is the Master Planner, and we are ing a ride on any means of “human transportation”. confident that He will never cause us woes or mis- It assuredly is relevant and thought-provoking. fortune. For some of us, life is yet a long journey. For others, it may only be a few days. Nonetheless, Lift up your heart to God. are we willing to let God be part of our life? “It is necessary to unite ourselves with God by lift- ing up our hearts. “ (Sermon III)

Our heart naturally beats, and it throbs for some- thing. It throbs either for life, for love, for God, or for things that captivate it. The Gospel of Matthew re-echoes once more its message: “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” (6:21) Where is our treasure? Where is our heart? What or for whom does it beat?

Our heart belongs to God. It is in it that He sits on His throne. It is the most intimate place where we can freely converse with Him about anything. They may be our successes or setbacks. They may be our consolations or desolations. It is in our heart where we can earnestly say, “God, it’s just between you and me.” And we know, God keeps secrets.

By lifting up our hearts, we unite ourselves more closely to the God who senses our every sigh and 24 25 Reflections and Meditations Reflections and Meditations Anthony’s Lift…

“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your Our mind gets entangled with our daily af- fairs. Its focus turns too often to merely human soul, with all your mind.” (Mt 22:37) concerns, setting us into the danger of becoming comprehends our every desire. We thus recognize passive to the demands of the Spirit. St. Anthony that God alone can satisfy our human longing. tells us how we can make God present in our day to day activities. Amidst the hustle and bustle, we Lift up your soul to God. can always “lift up our minds to God, whether we are working, talking, thinking, reading, and tak- “The exercise of lifting up one’s soul to God is, of ing care of our affairs”. (ibid) There is nothing that course, more difficult for the person who has got- would hinder us from having God the very inspira- ten into the bad habit of being distracted. Yet what tion of our every action. seems to be impossible (difficult) in itself becomes very easy with God’s help.” (Letter III) God is omnipresent. Wherever we may be, what- ever we may do, and at whatever time, God is It is not surprising that God fades away most of- there. Creating that close relationship with God ten when we are distracted. Our life is “clouded” is only a matter of turning our attention to Him, with our innumerable interests. The distractions of from time to time, while accomplishing our tasks. daily life make us less sensitive to the presence of God will not deny us his company if we allow him God. Yet, in the Old Testament, we console our- to be there. He is a Friend who would be willing selves that the cloud itself is the very presence of to spend time with us without making a fuss, thus God among the Israelites in the desert. So God is causing us disturbance. there in our distractions. We don’t get disquieted in whatever way, for seemingly forcing God out of St. Anthony stresses, “Lift up your mind to God... . our concerns. It may be in this that God commu- If you practice this way of prayer, I can assure you nicates with us. that little by little you will derive from it both great spiritual profit and an ever greater love relation- God undoubtedly uses any means to unite Himself ship with [God].” to us. He invites us to offer our worries and anxiet- ies to him, “for he cares” (1 Pt. 5:7). What is left In sole truth, our relationship with God depends for us to do is to respond to such an invitation so mostly on how much we love Him. If we love God, lovingly and generously offered. It may not come we take every “lift” no matter how our life goes. easy, especially when we tend to believe that we can handle things ourselves, or when uniting to God “I am not going to add anything else, for I want becomes a taxing experience. However, St. Anthony experience to speak for itself.” (ibid.) says: “What seems to be impossible itself becomes very easy with God’s help, if only we do not refuse What do you say? Him our cooperation and that diligent spiritual commitment with which He has endowed us.” “I’ll take the lift.”

Lift up your mind to God. “Do you think that the straight road to heaven is to have possessions, to have honors, to have delights, “If you want to maintain an ever close relationship to have favors? It is nothing else but the love of with God. ... simply and often lift up your mind to God, this is the road we have to ascend. “ God. “ (Letter III) (Sermon IV) 24 25 Reflections and Meditations Make Your Home… Reflections and Meditations

Make Your Home in Me, As I Make Mine in You by Fr. Speranza

or most of my adult life, I have suffered from little prayer I had been doing soon stopped. How Fdepression, and I have not always chosen healthy could I pray when I was so bad? I accused myself of ways of dealing with it. Twenty years ago, it seemed hypocrisy. I refused to let God in on my pain. As a that my life was falling apart and that my depen- matter of fact, I refused to let anyone in on my pain dency on alcohol was increasing. I started drinking -even those I loved. to help me feel better and, when that made me I knew that attempting feel worse, I drank more. to close myself off was Friends had noticed and a mistake. I knew that had tried an interven- continuing to drink was tion, but I interpreted a mistake. I knew that not their care and concern as praying was a mistake. I meddlesome and I read- knew so many things. ily dismissed what they were saying to me. Everything was DARK. One Sunday morning, I was standing outside the The bishop called and church where I assisted on asked to see me. He had the week-ends and some received a couple of re- of the people came over ports, and he inquired and congratulated me on about my drinking. I told what they described as “a him that I did not have a beautiful homily” then I problem, but that if I did remembered nodding my in the future, I would call head and thinking that if him. they knew what I was really like, they wouldn’t Thanks be to God, I be saying that to me. developed a bleeding ulcer and had to go into “If they knew what I was the hospital. The friends really like”—those words who had attempted the kept on repeating in my mind over the next several intervention and a priest friend visited me, and days. I concluded that if they did know what I was their silent tears spoke volumes. like, they would not speak to me at all. Taking my The first thing I did, when I returned to the rectory, thoughts a step further, it seemed to me that God was to telephone the bishop and tell him that I knew what I was really like. God knew what a mess needed help. He arranged for me to go for an evalu- I had become. I was flooded with shame, and the ation at a treatment center for clergy and religious. 26 27 Reflections and Meditations Reflections and Meditations Make Your Home…

There I was told that I was a good candidate After a couple of months, I received a letter for their program. There was a catch, how- from a dear friend, a Franciscan sister. She ever. They were full and had a waiting list. I wrote that she had been diagnosed with could not be admitted for six months. cancer and had begun treatments. Then she really blew me away. She wrote that she was offering her My last drink was the night I entered the hospi- pain for my healing. tal. I promised the bishop that I would not drink, and I kept my word with the help of Alcoholics Later that day in our small group therapy session, I Anonymous. During those was invited to share. I read six months, I went to meet- the letter from my friend. Jesus said: ings regularly. I continued When I got to the words “Come to me, all you who labor and are my ministry and started to “I am offering my pain burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my enjoy it again. I opened up for your healing”, I broke yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am a little to the Lord and oth- down completely. As I was meek and humble of heart; and you will find ers and shared what was crying and sobbing in my rest for yourself. For my yoke is easy , and my going on in my life. Those anguish and pain, I be- burden light.” six months of waiting were came aware that I was be- (Mt 11 28-30, NAB) almost like a dream. ing held just as my Mom used to hold me when I Saint Anthony Zaccaria said: I entered treatment in June was a little boy. I was be- “You can be sure that, before you speak and of 1986. Saying goodbye to ing held by God, the ther- in the very moment of speaking, Jesus Cruci- those with whom I minis- apist, and the members of fied will anticipate and accompany, not only tered and to my family and my group. They continued every word of yours, but your every holy in- friends was a jolt of reality. to hold me while I poured tention. St. Paul said that he would push for- It wasn’t a dream anymore. out everything that was ward but stay within the limits of the work My leaving was difficult within me. that Christ had set for him. As for you, Jesus for me, and I faced the Crucified has also set a limit when he prom- unknown with great fear. I don’t remember too ised that you would get enough strength to I was unsure of everything, much more about that pierce to their marrow the hearts of people. and I closed down again. I day. I know that it was an Don’t you see that He Himself has opened went through the motions ending and a beginning the doors for you with His own hands? Who, and spoke to my primary for me. then, will hinder you from entering …” therapist and the spiritual (A. Zaccaria, Letter VI) director. I was placed in The next morning, I awoke various therapies. I was with a prayer of praise on present, but I was not engaged. my lips. Later that day, it was my turn to be the principal celebrant of our Mass. When I entered I celebrated Mass every day, but I was empty. Every the chapel, I was home. time I entered the chapel, God seemed so very far away. I said prayers, but didn’t pray. THE JOURNEY CONTINUES…

26 27 Reflections and Meditations Praying is Placing Oneself… Reflections and Meditations Prayer Is Placing Oneself in the Presence of God by Fr. Richard Delzingaro, CRSP

“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray….’ He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.’” (Lk 11, 1-2)

rayer, any prayer, is placing oneselfP in the presence of God. Prayer is both a psychological ac- tivity and a spiritual attitude. It is a subjective reality, i.e. the one who is praying and an objective reality, i.e. the one to whom one is praying. For me, then, prayer is nothing more, nothing less than being in an I – Thou inter-per- sonal relationship with God, a God rooted in human tradition and revealed in sacred scripture, the inspired word of God – a God who communicates vis á vis the incarnate WORD, Jesus Christ. Since prayer is both a verbal and mental relational exercise with a God who reveals, it also implies a willingness to serve. R. Kosek

Image by 28 29 Reflections and Meditations Reflections and Meditations Praying is Placing Oneself…

“‘But as for me and my household, we will Following the intent of our Founder, St. serve the LORD’” (Josh 24,15). Anthony Zaccaria and the tradition of our religious congregation, the Barnabites, my formal Thus, to serve the LORD is to place oneself inten- prayer is grounded in The Liturgy of the Hours, tionally in the sacred moment; and to be expressly reciting the Breviary either in private or in commu- in the presence of a personal God is a form of nity. This formal prayer is rooted in scripture and prayer that is both basic and expansive. Conse- is enhanced by other writings, all of which serve quently, prayer is something we do (a psychologi- to inspire me to be in a dialogue with God who is cal reality) with someone who is (a spiritual real- transcendent and Christ who is immanent. Jesus ity). Moreover, the desire to pray comes from an invites and encourages me to enjoy the intimacy attendant God who loves each of us uncondition- of a personal relationship with a self-defining God ally and who desires to be in a caring love-relation- of love. The inspiration to be in God’s presence ship with us. through formal prayer also engenders the desire to seek God and to be sought. For me, prayer is intrinsically a daily journey linked to the redemptive activity of God, an activity that “With what shall I come before the LORD? (….) And what is revealed as salvation history and sustained in the does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love tradition of the Church, the people of God. And mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Mic 6, 6,8). so, if prayer turns my mind and thoughts to God- wherever I am, whatever I am doing, it begins with Therefore, if following the faith draws me to God’s the notion of thanksgiving: the Lord my God has sacred presence, then prayer invites me to be drawn created me to know, to love, and to praise him with into the hallowed space of God who is calling me joy and gratitude. For me, prayer is God’s universal to engage Him relationally in the serenity of the call to holiness, a call to follow Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit as well as in the struggles of life. Prayer WORD, and to strive daily to discover God’s pres- is the opportune moment to resonate in the good ence and to dwell there. Prayer helps me to under- news of Christ who renews our gratitude for the gift stand, “what is man that you are mindful of him, of life itself, to savor the moments we have been on the son of man that you care for him?” (Ps 8, 4) earth, and to share God’s love with others.

To follow Jesus, hence, to grow in the knowledge of Let us praise God together for the inestimable God’s love, is an awesome yet attainable concept. gift of the SON, Jesus, our hope, our joy. Prayer, both verbal and mental is a conceptual Prayer, especially for the poor and needy, expands our bond that unites me to the love of God in Christ faith so that we can live in the fullness of God’s love – so that each day I can say and believe, “This is the both here and now and forever in heaven. day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL in it” (Ps 118, 24). VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.

28 29 Reflections and Meditations Kids Page Outstanding Barnabites �� ����������������

When I think of…When I think of…

“When I think of the sunset it makes me think of God who created the earth and painted the skies with a paintbrush.”

Elizabeth Gambino—age 11

“Snow makes me think of the Transfiguration of Jesus.” Peter Gambino—age 9

“Scars remind me of Jesus.” Matthew Gambino—age 6 30 31 Reflections and Meditations Outstanding Barnabites A Servant of…

A Servant of the Orphans Fr. Giovanni n 1967, Pope Paul VI wrote, “We love to see Semeria, Iin him [Fr. Semeria] one of the most noble and known figures of the past generations, for his a Barnabite simplicity and humility as a religious, for his vast (1867–1931) culture, for his powerful eloquence, but especially for his exemplary attachment to the Catholic faith; cion. He founded the Superior School of Religion, and and we wish his memory and his example would initiated many charitable activities. The people of encourage total fidelity to the Church, a love which higher society in Genoa were drawn to the church sacrifices itself for our neighbor, and the spreading “Alle Vigne” to hear his Sunday sermons. of good studies.” In 1897, the 30 year-old Semeria traveled back to Fr. Semeria was born on the Ligurian coast in 1867. Rome to deliver the Lenten sermons in St. Law- At the age of fifteen, he decided to dedicate his life rence in Damaso. Every day a crowd of people, to Christ by becoming a Barnabite. He attended Romans and visitors, including Queen Marguerite the novitiate in . He studied philosophy and the future Benedict XV, would pack the church and theology in Rome where he was ordained a two hours before the sermon. This stupendous priest in 1890. success was Fr. Semeria’s baptism as a great sacred orator. From that point on, he did not restrict In 1895, he was transferred to St. Bartholomew’s, himself to preach solely in Italy. He traveled to in Genoa, which became the center of his future ac- France, , , England, Asia, Africa tivities. Many of the young people of Rome, already and America to deliver his powerful messages. He captivated by the young Semeria’s energetic spirit, gained fame for his sermons before the Interna- sent their good wishes with him when he departed. tional Eucharistic Congress at Cartage. He spoke on every event, happy or sad, Church or State re- The 18–year old Eugenio Pacelli, future Pius XII, lated, interpreting the feelings of the Church or of wrote that Fr. Semeria was thought of as a “most the civic community. Someone once wrote: “The beautiful, noble, sincere, loyal soul, and of high only sermon he lacks is on the devil’s horns!” intelligence.” In 1912, this naturally gifted orator was forced into Fr. Semeria spent the next twelve years with the a silent exile in . The battle against Modern- young people in Genoa. “Oh, the beautiful time ism spared no one. Fr. Semeria’s heart was broken, spent with the young people of all ages! I never but he obeyed. He spent two years of forced silence got bored with them. And as I remember them and and inactivity, helping the Italian immigrants. gladly see them again, so also it seems to me they are not unhappy when they encounter me.” In 1915, World War I brought him back to Italy. At the personal request of General Louis Cadorna, He became director of the “St Alexander Sauli Club,” Fr. Semeria became the chaplain of the Italian Su- where he supervised the teaching of religion as well preme Command. A new page was opening in his as sport and theater activities for the young. At that life. Homilies, conferences, conversations, Masses time, these activities were looked upon with suspi- on the front, confessions, visits to the wounded... 30 31 Outstanding Barnabites A Servant of… Outstanding Barnabites

He was going through piles and piles of shortly after, I would come down to extend correspondence for those who were asking my hand, dollars would rain in my hat him the most unexpected requests. He would run – that historical hat – which has seen in it inside where the danger was the thickest to encourage thousands of dollars, and I am ready to give it as a men to duty. gift to anyone who would give me a thousand liras for my orphans.” In the full fury of the war he wrote: “I, and others like me, had the delicate task to face the soldiers Fr. Semeria returned to Italy retired, but happy, who were carrying on that horrible duty, summa- with thousands of dollars for his orphans. He did rized in two words, of which I do not know which not force his orphans to study. Instead, he directed one is more atrocious and repugnant: kill and them toward vocational traits, so much needed at die. It was a duty, it was a need. At more length I that time. In only five years, nine shelter-laborato- shared this ministry with Fr. John Minozzi, a ries in Calabria, eleven in Basilicata, four in Cam- fellow from Abruzzi, an incomparable animator. pania, and three in Abruzzi flourished. Fr. Semeria We promised to ourselves and to the soldiers—I also founded fourteen summer camps in the Alps with my speeches, he with his conversations—that and one on the shore in Monterosso (La Spezia). we would not forget their children. We made that Today, under the direction of the Disciples of Don promise often and with more insistence to those Minozzi, there are about one hundred centers with of the South. At the conclusion of the Armistice, it schools, laboratories, and shelters. was our duty to keep the promise.” From this time on, Fr. Semeria’s theology of the By 1919, two orphanages were in the planning “heart” was replacing the theology of the “mind.” stages, one in Amatrice (Rieti) and the other in The books, conferences, homilies, publications, Gioia del Colle (). Yet the financing of these and everything he worked on was directed towards projects was insufficient. Fr. Semeria left for the his orphans. He was constantly on the move to United States to appeal to the hearts of the Ameri- “sell himself,” as he was fond of saying. His last cans. With his tremendous sense of adaptation, he speech was in Monte Casino. When he was taken immediately felt at home. He spoke in churches, back to his orphans in Sparanise, he collapsed with theaters, halls, and at town meetings. Many were exhaustion. Fr. Semeria, father of the orphans, or astonished by this bearded figure with such a pic- better the humble “Servant of the Orphans,” died turesque style. in their midst on March l5th, 1931. As he lay in bed, his final words were: “I do feel that I should “When – Fr. Semeria wrote – after a summary have done more and better. I ask God’s forgiveness description of heroic gestures of Italy and its sol- for not having done it. I exhort you to charity. Live diers during the three years of the colossal war, I in charity.” would plead for the orphans, children of our fallen soldiers, tears would wet their cheeks; and when, When his mortal remains were brought back to Rome to his Barnabite house in Via Chiavari, they were wrapped in the Italian flag to honor him as a national hero. This exemplary man of religious life showed in life and in death what it means to truly live as a man of God and as a Barnabite. R. Kosek Reprint from Clerics Regular of St. Paul – Barnabite Fathers “A Tradition of Holiness and Scholarship”,

Image by Marikina, Philippines: 1998, pp.59-60. 32 33 Outstanding Barnabites Outstanding Barnabites Peace and Peace

In 2007 we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the death of the Servant of God, Giovanni Semeria (1867-1931), who is now in the process of being canonized. We would like to present to our read- ers the following short, but thoughtful, reflection by him written in 1925. This famous Barnabite typifies prophetic vocation and charism, and was unjustly accused of Modernism. Long before Vatican II, he promoted dialogue between the Church and the world, in all fields: science, phi- losophy, sociology, history, theology, politics, popular religion, biblical criticism and feminism. He called for the modernization of the liturgy, ecumenism, the democratic system, the autonomy of the in non-dogmatic matters and the study of the relation- ship between authority and freedom in the church.

In the following words, I hear an echo of Semeria’s person- al struggle during the Modernist Crisis (1900-1914), when he became the target of pitiless and overzealous “defenders of the faith.” This reflection is taken from The Gospels for the Feast Days (Evangeli della Festa, 1936), and was

written as a commentary to the Gospel of the Second R. Kosek Sunday of Easter (John 20:19-29). Image by

Translated by Fr. Tony Bianco, CRSP Surely we may have what looks like peace, but actually it does not deserve the name. The peace Peace and Peace of the desert, the peace of the ashes that hide a by Fr. Giovanni Semeria, CRSP smoldering fire, the peace of the vegetation spread over a crater, ready to erupt at any time. All these ertainly, brothers, there is peace and there images reflect historical situations… A nation Cis peace. This must be said right at the outset to squashes another and then proclaims peace. What avoid any misunderstanding of the habitual greet- an illusion, what a falsification… War is over, can- ing given by the Risen Lord. “Peace be with you,” nons cease to thunder, but people are still full of Jesus invariably tells the apostles, and the other hatred, eager for revenge, yet peace is proclaimed! disciples when he appears to them after his Resur- Far too soon. rection. All these kinds of peace are false, a mere sham. The angels sang peace over his cradle, the lullaby of They are superficial and fictitious. This is not Jesus’ the newborn Babe. Likewise, peace is the lullaby of peace. His peace is not something static, the peace the Risen One. However, this time not the angels, of stagnant and putrid waters, a lifeless peace, with- but He himself announces and brings peace as the out struggle or without victory. Politically speak- Victor, because true peace, a peace worthy of the name, ing, this is the peace of nations closed in on them- is the conclusion of a struggle, a victorious conclusion. selves, who abhor getting involved. Economically 32 33 Outstanding Barnabites Peace and Peace The Oblates of Saint Paul

“True peace must be conquered every day, every hour, every moment. It must be attained for others and for ourselves. Peace is equilibrium, but not an equilibrium of lifeless things. These, once put in a place, never move; they are inert. Peace is the equilibrium of living things. It is the peace of the strong who do not look for conflict or a fight, yet are not afraid of them.” Fr. Giovanni Semeria speaking, this is the peace of sluggish and fearful they are advancing the cause of peace, and may, ul- people, who remain in their poverty because they timately, bring it about. Pacifists are not the same dislike risk and do not want to experience the as peacemakers. It is the latter that Jesus proclaims hardships of fruitful work. Morally speaking, this blessed. is the peace of the weak who fear every form of struggle, every effort: it is the peace of pacifists, not This article appeared in The North American Voice of of peacemakers. Fatima in May-June issue 1986 ©Barnabite Fathers.

We imagine that these kinds of peace come about automatically, whereas true peace cannot but come from our will dynamically. The Gospel itself may seem, in turn, an idyll of peace or a war song. Doesn’t our Lord himself, at one point, say, “It is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword?” (Mt 10:34). Wasn’t he a powerful fighter, a fighter unto death, even death on the cross? His enigmatic words do seemingly contrast with his repeated of- fers and announcements of peace. But the enigma is readily solved when we recall St. Augustine’s fine definition of peace: “Peace is tranquility, but not tranquility pure and simple; it is the tranquility of order and within order.”

The original and principal ingredient of peace is then, not tranquility, but order. Tranquility, at all costs, eludes those who seek peace at all costs, that is, by compromising order, trampling on justice, warring against others and bringing war upon themselves, precisely because they are cowards and are selfish in their search for peace. Those who seek justice must fight for it, and they may appear as troublemakers. In reality, since they fight for order,

34 35 Outstanding Barnabites The Oblates of Saint Paul The Oblates

ST. JAMES PARISH

231 Morden Road Oakville, Ontario L6K 2S2, Canada • Phone (905) 845-3603 • E-mail St. James Parish • www.stjamesparish.ca

Who are the Oblates? During the Catholic Reform of the early 1500’s, there ex- From The Oblates isted in Milan the Oratory of Eternal Wisdom. One of its of St. Paul spiritual guiding forces was St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria. by Michael & Angie Rooney He formed three different groups from the oratory: the Barnabite Fathers, Angelic Sisters, and the Married of St. ith the permission and blessing of our Paul. WPastor Father Frank Ruzza, CRSP, the Oblates of Around the time of the the Married of St. St. Paul organized a twenty-four hour exposition Paul fell to the wayside. Since Vatican II there has been a of the Blessed Sacrament. For security reasons, it rebirth of various lay spiritual movements. In the 1990’s took place over two, 12–hour days. The Chapel was this third group has been reborn as the Oblates (Laity) of open Friday, March 2nd from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. St. Paul. and again Saturday, March 3th from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.. For many centuries the term “OBLATE” has been defined as “one offered to God.” Thus the oblate has been one Organization of the event consisted of: linked in some way to a or as a member of a religious institute. In recent times lay men and wom- • Prayer for a successful program. en have been seeking to express their faith with regard to • The Adoration theme was Jesus’ question to the the first definition of the Barnabites and the Angelics. Apostles in the garden of Gethsemane, “Could You In the North American Province of the Barnabite Fathers, Not Spend One Hour With Me?” the Oblates of St. Paul began on March 5, 2000 with their • Prominent signs asking this question were dis- first meeting at St. James Parish in Oakville, Ontario. played in the Church lobby, along with: The Oblates meet monthly with an open sharing of ideas • Two sign-up books, one for each day. Parishioners on topics connected with St. Anthony Mary, the Barnabite were requested to enter their name, phone number Fathers, or St. Paul. These members of the laity (single and times they would be in the Chapel. or married) wish to grow spiritually within the Zaccaria • All parish organizations were contacted, Eucharis- family. tic ministers, Lectors, and Commentators, Catholic Women’s’ League, Choir, Knights of Columbus, the Each Oblate community (cenacle) has a Barnabite as its Parish Council and St. James school. spiritual director to guide all in their spiritual journey • It was determined that at least fifty-eight parish- with and through the Barnabites. The Oblates also are ioners were required, two for each hour plus ten to involved in some form of Barnabite ministry connected stand-by, if needed to fill in. with a Barnabite community. • Volunteers monitored the Chapel to insure that the 34 35 The Oblates of Saint Paul The News

Blessed Sacrament I first encountered the charism with Fr. Paul would not be left Marconi, CRSP and later with Fr. Mike Man- unattended. cusi, CRSP. I became an Oblate in March 2000. • A week prior to the Following the model of Jesus, who worked and Exposition parishioners taught, we are invited to build the Kingdom of God were reminded from the with words but even more so with the testimony of pulpit, that sign-up was our lives, each according to the gifts received and next weekend and that the tasks entrusted to each in the Church and in society. they were invited to take To this end, under the guidance of Father Ruzza, part in the Adoration pro- and with great satisfaction and growth in the Spirit, gram. the Oblates at St. James Parish, Oakville, Ontario • The following weekend conduct adult faith enrichment programs Tuesday our Pastor and assistants evenings and Thursday mornings with themes cor- encouraged parishioners responding to the Liturgical Year. to make time to spend Together with the Barnabites and the whole in silent contemplation Church we strive to bring forth a new incarnation with our Lord. They were of Christ. 24 Hours With Jesus In directed to use the forms Programs include Alpha, CaFE, Questions of the The Eucharistic Adoration in the pews. (Pencils and Soul (Father Michael Himes), and a Lenten Series sign-up forms had previously been placed there). (Father Raniero Cantalamessa).

The Adoration program was very successful. Well Yours Sincerely, over a hundred attended. The Chapel had many John Caplette, (An Oblate of St. Paul, St. James Parish) more parishioners per-hour than was anticipated, and the monitors reported that they were never needed.

We thank God for all those who so generously contributed their time to make this Adoration pro- gram a success. 1502–1539 2007 We are reminded that our Holy Father Pope John Paul II, prayed that “Perpetual Eucharistic Adora- Barnabite Spiritual Center Newsletter tion would take place in every Catholic Church in The Clerics Regular of Saint Paul • BARNABITES the world.” 4301 Hecktown Road • Bethlehem, PA 18020 • USA

On behalf of the Oblates of St. Paul Director: Father Robert B. Kosek, CRSP Michael & Angie Rooney Editorial Staff: Sr. Rorivic P. Israel, ASP, Fran Stahlecker, Mary Grace & Fr. Richard Delzingaro, CRSP Design: Greg T. Gambino & Through my exposure to various Barnabite Fa- Jacob Culichia thers, I have experienced the founding charism of St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria, i.e. the need to share Email: [email protected] Design by www.AnthonyAlive.com Greg Gambino spiritually and in the apostolate with the laity, [email protected] the charism of the Barnabites and of the Angelics. 36