We have no right to salvation; it is pure grace, a gift from God!

THE GREAT FORFEITURE

by Fr. Tom Collins

Many saints through the ages have marveled at the many dimensions of divine love and mercy manifested in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Among these are the gracious generosity of God speaking to us through His Holy Word, the sacred mystery of transubstantiation (whereby bread and wine are transformed into the sacred Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ) and the sacred privilege of entering into a Holy Communion with the Eucharistic Christ. But there is another important dimension of the Mass that is just as important for a proper appreciation of the sacred mysteries ministered to us in this holy sacrifice, the Great Forfeiture.

"The Shepherds Govern the Flock."... Or Do They?

Logo of the 2024 Lutheran Assembly. The synodal way is making us Protestants.

The never-ending synodal process has become a serious trial to those who love the Church. One wonders why the bishops have continued to participate and even wax enthusiastic while these events fulfill the rallying cry of Francis to "make a mess." In view of the confusion and, even questionable doctrinal novelties accompanying the process, one would expect a little hesitancy and even push back from the bishops. But there's been precious little of that from the majority who undermine their own authority as they carry out the Vatican demands to "listen" to the vox populi, especially those who want to turn the Church into another Protestant sect. 

A Lenten Reflection on that Predominant Fault You Haven't Conquered Yet

Sloth from The Seven Deadly Sins by Hieronymus Bosch

Have you ever considered the question, "What is my predominant sin/fault and how can I subdue it?" There are seven deadly sins and most of us are tempted more strongly by some vices than others. And, of course, at different seasons of life, some hold more sway.