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Category: Faith

  • Rest in Peace Pope Francis

    Rest in Peace Pope Francis

    With Pope Francis’s passing, we are again reminded of the early Church at the beginning of Christianity. Anyone who knows or appreciates history understands the impact of the Catholic Church on world history. For better or worse, the Catholic Church has played a significant role in world events in the last 2,000+ years. It is this connection to history that first attracted me to the faith. Apostolic Succession traces the Pontiff back to Peter the Apostle.

    Catholicism is the O.G. of Christianity.

    The division between conservatives and liberals is not limited to governmental politics. Similar differences in opinion and viewpoints exist in the Catholic Church today. Many find Pope Francis to be more progressive than traditional Catholics prefer. The pundits have already begun debating who the next pope will be and how he will lead his flock.

    I have loved Pope Francis since his election in 2013. His quiet humility was an example to Christians everywhere. I loved the stories I heard of his behavior after his election. He remained who he was, calling the newspaper himself to cancel his subscription, and insisting on personally paying the bill at his hotel before moving into the Vatican housing. I knew I’d like him when he announced he would be known as Pope Francis, named after my favorite saint, St. Francis of Assisi. My heart is full seeing the images of his last day spent among the people, celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He was happiest when he was with those he loved, and who loved him.

    I will be glued to the media coverage of the funeral and conclave for the next several weeks. I love this kind of stuff. The rites and rituals are full of pomp and circumstance, and it is an opportunity to witness history as the Catholic Church chooses the next Servant of the Servants of God.


    We pray for the College of Cardinals as they gather for the funeral and conclave. We pray for the soul of Pope Francis as we grieve, and we pray for the new Pope who will be chosen as the next successor of Peter.

    Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

  • A Blessed Holy Week to You

    A Blessed Holy Week to You

    While working with the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults at St. Stanislaus, I was responsible for presenting a commentary each week. In 2020, I compiled all those essays and published them in The Commentary Project.

    The commentary for Palm Sunday was always a favorite. In honor of Holy Week, I am sharing it again here.

    May you have a blessed Holy Week and a Happy Easter Season.

    Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

    At the Procession with Palms – Gospel: Luke 19:28-40

    1st Reading: Isaiah 50: 4-7

    Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24

    2nd Reading: Philippians 2: 6-11

    Gospel: Luke 22: 14-23:56

    This reading is unique among the gospel stories we hear at Mass. Unlike the rest of the gospel, the Passion narrative was told and was recorded in the complete form. The Church continues this tradition by reading the entire account and not breaking it up into smaller pieces.

    Luke’s goal was to continue to portray the life and ministry of Jesus as he had with the earlier stories, a Cliffs Notes version.

    Jesus was the one who healed. (Healing the ear of the High Priest’s servant… and He even healed the relationship between Pilate and Herod.)

    Jesus showed more concern for others than for Himself. (Remember His concern for the disciples and the weeping women.)

    Jesus offered divine love, reconciliation, and forgiveness … even from the cross.

    Jesus is still eating with sinners. His disciples are weak, fighting and unfaithful. And yet, He eagerly desired to share this meal with them before the suffering began. Remember, at this time in the Mediterranean world, the highest compliment you could bestow on a friend was to share a meal with them. The worst thing would be to betray them. Both occurred in this setting.

    The timing of this story is critical. The Feast of the Passover commemorated the Jews’ liberation from slavery. Jesus and the events of this particular Passover became the “New Covenant,” releasing all men from bondage to freedom.

    We enter the week with our eyes on Jesus, A King. Palms were used as a symbol of victory and power since the 2nd century before Christ. This was the scene for a procession of a King to his coronation. In this case, it was a crown of thorns and a throne of a cross. The way to this kingdom is the way of the cross.

    Jesus seems in complete control. He even knows how the owners of the ass will behave when the disciples untie the animal. The most important message to understand is that this is what Jesus came to do.

    “Peace in Heaven and Glory in the Highest.” Phrases familiar to us at Christmas time are meaningless without the cross. The Incarnation finds complete fulfillment in the cross of Jesus.

    I attended Catholic Masses for several years before choosing to convert. I always admired the lectors and thought, if I ever become active in this faith, I would want to do that, too.” (To be honest, I usually criticized them.) I was thrilled when Passion Sunday would come each year; here was my chance to participate. I was asked to speak out loud and proclaim the gospel myself. But at that time, the words I read had no meaning. I was more concerned with keeping up and not losing my place in the book than letting the words sink in.

    “Crucify Him!”

    We’ve all stood unconsciously and innocently with those accusers. Mere words. How naive. They were just words from many years ago spoken by others.

    I wanted to be a part of the drama. There is such vivid emotion from both the powerful and the lowly. It wasn’t until years later that I realized how much a part of the drama I was by the life I chose to live every day. I have played ALL of the roles in this scene:

    I have been Judas… I have been two-faced… sitting with a friend and betraying them when their back is turned.

    I have been Peter… I have denied my association with the Lord for fear of the repercussions.

    I have been the Chief Priests, the Temple Guards, and the Elders when I have mocked Jesus and ridiculed him by my behavior to those whom I am called to love and serve… or sat in judgment of the actions of an innocent man.

    I have been Pilate… doing things I knew were wrong… to keep the peace.

    I have been Herod, passing off the responsibility to someone else.

    I have been Barabbas, reaping the benefits of an unfortunate situation.

    I have been in the crowd… yelling, “Crucify Him!” whether with actual intent to sin or to be part of the crowd.

    I have been the Criminal, reviling Christ and denying his very existence with my conscious effort to turn away from all that I know to be right and true.

    But it is also important to remember:

    I have also been the High Priest’s servant… who has received physical healing.

    I have also been Simon… who was unknowingly part of something monumental that would change my perspective and my life forever.

    I have also been the Daughters of Jerusalem, who have wept over the horrible treatment of the poor and the oppressed and for the treatment of our Lord on that day and I, too, have been warned.

    I have also been the Criminal… the one the Lord promises forgiveness and a place in eternal life.

    I have been the Centurion who has witnessed acts of God and glorified Him in recognition.

    I have also been Joseph; I have buried friends and loved ones.

    I have also been the women, who even in their grief honored and respected the commandment they had been given.

    I can even play Jesus when I choose to do the right thing. Which character from The Passion will you choose to portray in your life?

  • Embracing Pono: Finding Balance, Peace, and Spiritual Connection in Everyday Life

    Embracing Pono: Finding Balance, Peace, and Spiritual Connection in Everyday Life

    On a recent visit to Maui, Hawaii, I was reminded of this island’s healing and nurturing atmosphere. Some would call the experience as magical, but I prefer the word mystical. It is a direct encounter with God through the beauty of His creation and people.

    The Hawaiians refer to this state of being as Pono. It is defined as living with “righteousness” or “balance” within yourself, others, and the environment. It is a way of life that encourages peace and harmony, and one cannot escape the beneficial aspects of this lifestyle. Pono is not so much something that happens to you. Appreciating and participating in the exchange between others and the world around you is more of a choice. If you let it, Pono will bring an indescribable peace, and I am convinced that is precisely what visitors experience when they visit the islands and what keeps them going back, year after year.


    I was first introduced to Pono by a friend who moved from California to Maui after the COVID-19 pandemic. I was intrigued and thankful that what I could not explain had a name and that I was not the only one. What was different about this last trip (January 2025) was how easily I fell into Pono after arriving after our flight. Even after the hassle of air travel, I felt myself begin to decompress as soon as we landed. The transition comes easier and smoother every time we visit.

    This experience made me pause and think about applying the Pono to my everyday life while at home on the mainland. Is it possible to practice Pono when you’re not in paradise? If we consider it a choice or a practice, yes. And, just like anything we practice we can get better and better as time passes.

    Reflecting on my journey, I realize that practicing Pono doesn’t require being in Hawaii—it’s a mindset we can cultivate anywhere. By embracing balance, gratitude, and connection in our daily lives, we can bring peace and harmony, no matter where we are.

    Whether through mindfulness, prayer or simply appreciating the beauty around us, we can attune ourselves to the divine presence in every moment. As I embark on my journey with “Attune” as my guiding word for 2025, I invite you to consider how you can bring more Pono into your life.

    Have you ever experienced this sense of deep connection and balance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • The Apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego: A Miracle in Mexico

    The Apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego: A Miracle in Mexico

    As you know, we are headed to Mexico. This pilgrimage has been a long-time dream for me, especially since I learned the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and my conversion to Catholicism in 1999. Of all the Marian Apparitions, this one fascinates me the most. If you’re unfamiliar with the story, keep reading to understand what it means to us. The apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego is one of the most cherished and significant events in Roman Catholic history. This miraculous event, which took place in 1531, has profoundly impacted the faith and devotion of millions of Catholics worldwide. Following the apparition, an estimated 9 million indigenous people converted to Christianity within a decade.

    The Story of the Apparition

    On December 9, 1531, a newly converted native Nahua man named Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin was walking near Tepeyac Hill on the outskirts of Mexico City when he heard beautiful sounds from atop the hill. Following the sound, he saw a beautiful woman floating in the air. She introduced herself as the Mother of the true God and asked Juan Diego to tell the bishop she wanted a church built in her honor.

    Juan Diego went to the bishop, but his request was not granted an audience. He returned to Tepeyac, where the Virgin Mary appeared again and asked him to return to the bishop. The bishop received him this time but doubted his claims and asked for a sign. On December 12, Juan Diego met the Virgin Mary again after a delay due to his uncle’s illness. She reassured him, told him his uncle was cured, and instructed him to gather flowers from the hilltop. Despite being December, Juan Diego found roses and other flowers growing there. He bundled them in his tilma (cloak) and brought them to the bishop. When he unfurled the tilma, the image of the Virgin appeared on it.

    Apparition Facts

    1. This miraculous image, known as Our Lady of Guadalupe, is still preserved today and is venerated above the altar at the Basilica of Santa Maria de Guadalupe in Mexico City. It’s one of the world’s most studied and revered religious artifacts, and its mysteries continue to captivate scientists and believers alike. Here are some fun facts:
    2. Made of Cactus Fiber—The tilma is made of rough agave fiber, which should have deteriorated within 20-30 years. Yet, it has remained intact for nearly 500 years.
    3. The Mysterious Image—The image has no visible brushstrokes, and scientists have not determined how it was created. It has defied explanations of traditional painting techniques.
    4. Temperature Regulation – The tilma maintains a constant temperature of about 98.6°F, the same as the human body, regardless of the surrounding environment.
    5. The Eyes Contain Reflections—When studied under magnification, tiny human figures can be seen in the Virgin’s eyes, resembling what Juan Diego might have seen when unveiling the tilma to the bishop.
    6. Survived a Bombing – In 1921, a bomb hidden inside a flower arrangement exploded near the tilma. The blast twisted the altar’s metal cross, but the tilma remained untouched.
    7. Astronomical Alignments – The stars on the Virgin’s mantle correspond to the exact positions of constellations as they appeared in the sky on December 12, 1531, the day of the apparition.
    8. Color-Shifting Phenomenon – The colors of the tilma seem to change depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions, adding to its mystical nature.

    The apparition of the Virgin Mary to Juan Diego is a story of faith, devotion, and divine intervention. It holds a special place in the hearts of Roman Catholics and continues to inspire millions worldwide. The Basilica of Santa Maria de Guadalupe symbolizes this enduring faith and is a beacon of hope and devotion for all who visit. When we get home, I’ll tell you all about our experience.

    It’s not too late to send your prayer requests. Send me a message, and we’ll add your intentions.

  • Typewriter Lost and Found

    Typewriter Lost and Found

    NOTE: In February, Leroy and I will go on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City with Fr. Tom, Deacon Eric and other All Saints University Parish parishioners. We are truly grateful for the opportunity and look forward to the experience. Please keep us in your prayers, as you will be in ours. If you have any particular prayer intentions, message us, and we’ll carry them with us on this journey.

    If you’ve known me for a while, you know we moved quite a bit after leaving the dairy in 2010. At one point, we had moved five times in six years. Fortunately, we have settled and have been in the same house for the last nine years. One of the side effects of moving so frequently was the dramatic decrease in possessions. This was probably the best part of the experience for me, but there is one possession I gave away that I have always regretted: my typewriter.

    The typewriter and I spent hours and hours together, and it became a trusted friend to a nerdy girl like me. However, typewriters were no longer necessary with the more common use of computers and word processors. I had not used mine for several years, so I gave it away.

    For the last several years, I have lamented that I don’t have (or have access to) a typewriter. Last spring, I purchased an antique manual typewriter. It’s awesome and functions well, but it is not practical for a lot of typing. It’s more of an art piece in my office. I wanted an electric typewriter, preferably with auto-correct.

    This past Christmas, I was discussing “stuff” with my brother. I am not very sentimental, and certainly not about possessions, but I did state that I regretted giving my typewriter away. My niece was nearby, heard our conversation, and asked if I wanted it back. She remembered that I gave her a typewriter several years ago. It was currently stored in a closet in her classroom. I’m pretty sure I squealed in delight. Was it too good to be true?

    I had to wait a few weeks, as my niece was on Christmas break and would not return to her classroom until after the first of the year. I counted the days and finally heard from her. She brought it home for me. I asked for a photo and initially didn’t recognize it. Leroy didn’t either until he picked it up and remembered the machine. As soon as I saw it in person, I knew it was the one!

    I actually cried. And then I thought of this scriptural passage:

    “What woman with ten coins would not, if she lost one, light a lamp and sweep out the house and search thoroughly till she found it? And then, when she had found it, call together her friends and neighbors, saying to them, “Rejoice with me; I have found the coin I lost.” In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing among the angels of God.” — Luke 15:8-10

    Don’t get your panties in a bunch. I am not comparing a typewriter to the Kingdom of God, but I can relate to the rejoicing and wanting to share the joy with everyone around me. (I could also use the story of The Prodigal Son. If I had access to a fatted calf, we would have slaughtered it that night.)

    After I collected myself, I inserted a piece of paper and began to type. Initially, it didn’t work, but once the ribbon advanced, the letters appeared on the page. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. First, I typed a thank you to my kind niece for her generosity. (I have named the machine Bethany in her honor.) Next, I hopped on the internet and ordered replacement ribbons.

    This would not be a big deal for many people, but it was the answer to a (simple) prayer for me. Considering the circumstances of the typewriter’s return, God obviously wanted me to have it back. It was not a coincidence that the discussion came up at Christmas and that my niece remembered having the machine. Now we know she was storing it for me for the last thirteen years. I won’t forget the lesson of this experience; the things that are meant to be in our lives will come to us. (Or, in my case, return to us.)

  • The Power of Traditions and Rituals in Strengthening Family Bonds

    The Power of Traditions and Rituals in Strengthening Family Bonds

    In today’s busy world, traditions and rituals help families stay connected. They give us time to be together, share values, and create memories. From monthly family dinners to religious events, these habits make families stronger and closer.

    Why Traditions and Rituals Matter

    Traditions and rituals make family life better by:

    1. Bringing People Together: Sharing activities strengthens relationships.
    2. Teaching Values: Traditions pass down important lessons and heritage.
    3. Creating Memories: Repeating special moments builds happy memories to cherish.

    The Roots of Common Traditions

    Many of today’s common traditions begin in historical Roman Catholic practices and rituals. Often passed down through centuries, these traditions have shaped how families celebrate holidays and milestones. For example:

    • Advent Calendars and Wreaths: Originating from the Roman Catholic observance of Advent, these tools help families prepare spiritually for Christmas.

    Feasts and Festivals: Many cultural holidays, like Mardi Gras, began as Catholic feasts tied to the liturgical calendar, such as the celebration before Lent.

    Easter Eggs: Decorating eggs is rooted in the Catholic tradition of celebrating new life at Easter.

    All Saints’ Day and Halloween: Halloween, or All Hallows’ Eve, was originally a Catholic vigil before All Saints’ Day.

    These practices have evolved but still carry the spirit of their origins, reminding families of their shared history and values.

    Christmas: A Time Full of Traditions

    Christmas is a holiday rich in traditions that bring families together. For Roman Catholics, Advent is the start of the season, marked by lighting candles on an Advent wreath and attending church services. These rituals help families focus on the meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus.

    Other favorite Christmas traditions include:

    • Nativity Scenes: Setting up a Nativity scene reminds us of the Holy Family and the true meaning of Christmas.
    • Midnight Mass: Attending this special service brings families together in faith and celebration.
    • Acts of Giving: Many families give back during Christmas, teaching kindness and generosity.
    • Decorating Together: Trimming the tree or baking cookies create joyful shared moments.
    • Rocha Family Traditions: We have created our own special traditions that make the season even more memorable. The importance of these traditions has become even more evident since my daughter-in-law Taylor joined the family. She loves the traditions we’ve developed and cherishes the joy they bring. These include sending Christmas cards to loved ones, building gingerbread houses together, enjoying Eggs Benedict on Christmas morning, and unwrapping pajamas from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. These simple yet meaningful activities bring joy and strengthen our family bond.

    Starting Your Own Family Traditions

    While old traditions are important, you can also create new ones that fit your family. Over time, a weekly movie night, an annual vacation, or writing thank-you notes during the holidays can become meaningful.

    The key is to keep it simple and consistent. Even small acts, like eating together or celebrating little milestones, can bring families closer and build lasting memories.

    The Gift of Traditions

    Traditions and rituals are gifts that help families stay connected and create lasting joy. Based on faith, culture, or shared interests, these practices build love and unity for generations. By cherishing these moments, families can strengthen their bonds and create memories to treasure forever.

    OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT Large language model. https://chatgpt.com

  • Great Job!

    Great Job!

    Several months ago, I was asked to present the monthly teaching at All Saints’s Adult Family Catechism class. The curriculum is planned and scheduled. I was assigned the topics of Creation, Adam and Eve, the Image of God and the Plan of Salvation. These are not simple topics, but I had access to a PowerPoint presentation, notes and videos that would help, and I used them all.

    Attendance at these classes (held monthly) is mandatory for the families participating in the Catechism classes. Most of the teaching is done at home, but the parishioners are asked to attend these classes to assist and hold them accountable. While preparing for this, I was reminded of the times when my attendance was mandatory at such events and how much I resented it. This was going to be a tough audience because most of them would never choose to be there. I certainly didn’t, so I understood the attitude. So, how did I go from being a forced participant to being a volunteer teacher? I just kept showing up. Somehow, a seed that was planted years ago began to develop.

    I was responsible for presenting the required theological concepts, but I wanted the parents to know they were doing a good job. They were there! They showed up! And that’s all that God asks of us. Life and parenting are tough, even under the best circumstances. Too often, parents get caught up in comparison and guilt, which only worsens matters. Doing the best we can under any circumstances is the most we can ask of ourselves and each other.

    So, if you find yourself in this season of life, I have some advice for you. Hang in there. God has entrusted these special souls to you for a reason. You’re not asked to do it alone. Seek the help you need from family, friends, church, and, most of all, the Holy Spirit. Just keep showing up and it will all fall into place.

  • 10th National Eucharistic Congress

    10th National Eucharistic Congress

    Leroy and I were privileged to attend the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana. The last time the National Congress was held was in 1941. In attendance at the 41st International Eucharistic Congress (held in the US) in 1976 were St. Teresa of Calcutta, Pope Saint John Paul II, Venerable Fulton Sheet and Dorothy Day. This year’s event’s purpose was to worship Jesus in the true presence in the Eucharist as one church. Before this year’s event, attendance was estimated at 40,000, but it was closer to 60,000.

    We flew in a day early. We walked on our first morning there and found the Church of St. John the Evangelist. We knew this was the site of the perpetual adoration (which had not yet begun), but we didn’t realize we had arrived just in time for the opening Mass. Volunteers, pilgrims, priests, religious and lay people filled the church. I spotted Fr. Josh Johnson (Ask Fr. Josh) walking to the sacristy to prepare for Mass. He was the only Catholic celebrity in attendance that I recognized, and it worked out that he was the one distributing communion for our line.

    We met our travel companions at registration and checked into an Airbnb for the duration of the congress. Each morning, we were up early for daily Mass and the beginning of the sessions. Each day, we ended with more speakers and Adoration. It is impossible to describe everything we experienced, but I can tell you some of my favorites.

    I love seeing the “Nunny Bunnies” walking in groups with their different habits. There were many young nuns, and they radiated joy. It was contagious.

    Each session of Adoration was just a little different. In the first one, Bishop Cozzens spoke directly to Jesus in a simple conversation. (I’d never seen a priest do that before.) The second was a beautiful procession with the biggest monstrance I have ever seen.

    The music was extraordinary. We listened to everything from Gregorian Chant to Christian Rock. The lyrics were shown on the screen so everyone could sing along. I love good music of all styles.

    Each speaker was inspiring and delivered a thought-provoking message. Even the emcees were uplifting and entertaining. They kept a tight schedule, and there was never a gap in the presentations. It was exceptionally well organized. This event collected some of the most well-known Catholics in media. Some I had heard of, and many were new to me.

    The processions (for Mass and the outside Eucharistic procession on Saturday) were awe-inspiring. The sheer number of seminarians, priests, bishops and cardinals lined up was staggering. The procession for the closing Mass took thirty minutes and included over 1,000 priests.

    Of course, some presentations struck me more than others. Here is my list (all of them are available to view by clicking the names to be redirected to YouTube).

    Msgr. James Shea — My favorite of the conference

    Sr. Olga of the Sacred Heart

    Fr. Mike Schmitz

    Sr. Josephine Garrett

    Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers

    Gloria Purvis

    Jonathan Roumie

    Bishop Robert Barron

    Chris Stefanick

    The schedule of this event was grueling, but it was worth every minute. Being around 40,000+ people takes a toll on an introvert like me, but witnessing the pilgrims was inspiring. We came home exhausted and still unpacking all that occurred. Considering the saints who came out of the last one, I know we were in the presence of true greatness and future saints.

    We won’t have to wait for the next National Eucharistic Congress. The next one is scheduled for 2033.

  • Pilgrimage Prayers Answered

    Pilgrimage Prayers Answered

    It’s been almost six weeks since we returned from our trip. The jet lag was killer, and we weren’t home long before we headed out of town again for a few days. I dove head-first into the website transfer project and tried to keep up with our regular events and commitments. But the memories and thoughts of the trip continue to be on my mind. I’ve had some time to process it now, and I think I’m ready to figure it all out by finally writing it down.

    It was a secondary thought to offer to take prayer intentions with us on the trip. I planned on visiting every church we could enter and attending Mass whenever possible. But the idea of taking the prayer intentions with us came to me just before we left. I remembered a young girl asking for prayer intentions when she traveled and was inspired to do the same. I can honestly say that it transformed the entire experience. I felt an overwhelming sense of honor and responsibility after reading the requests as they came in. I am honored that my friends and family would share their longings with me and take responsibility for petitioning on their behalf.

    While we were on the trip, I received a request to pray for a young girl who had been hospitalized with an unknown infection. She was battling for her life. We added her to the list and got busy praying and lighting candles. Our prayers and those of others who know and love her made a difference. She is improving. What a privilege to participate in her healing experience. We’ve all been blessed in the process.

    The stories continue to flow in about other prayers that have been answered.

    — Health and peace for a family in transition.

    — Improved relationship between a mother and daughter

    — Health and progress for a struggling son

    And the list goes on and on.

    In January, I chose the word “prayer” as my focus for the year 2024. Since then, I have expanded my prayer practice and increased my time spent in prayer. I have participated in new prayer techniques and studied the prayer lives of saints. But I have to say, carrying the prayer intentions of others and petitioning on their behalf has been the most transformative prayer practice to date. This experience is another example of the unexpected grace that has filled this pilgrimage.


    By the way, we’re still praying. If you have a request, contact me, and I’ll add it to the list.