An introduction to "Communio"

Influential quarterly founded by Han Urs von Balthasar and Joseph Ratzinger after the Vatican Council.  Alas, only a fraction of the content is available online, but the link above provides a hearty sampling of "Communio" 's heavy fare.

In honor of Mary

As Saturday is traditionally devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, we offer Orlando Gibbons' lovely setting of the "Magnificat."

Is there still hope for Notre Dame?

Yes, according to one hyper-optimist who loves Notre Dame deeply.  I hope he's right, but I'm afraid Fr. Hesburgh has already sold Notre Dame's birthright for a mess of potage.

Have you visited the Blessed Sacrament today?

Well, why not?

Here is some advice on visiting the Blessed Sacrament from "The Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus" by Fr. John Croiset, SJ:

[W]e give here the advice of St. Francis de Sales: "Many people have made a collection of aspirations which indeed are very useful; but, in my opinion, you should not confine yourself to any set formula of words; you can express with your heart or with your lips those sentiments which love will suggest to you, for love will furnish you with all the aspirations that you desire."

Ireland needs a miracle

The 50th International Eucharistic Congress is scheduled to take place in Ireland next year.  Pope Benedict may attend.   Benedict worked wonders in England.  Let's pray he does the same in Ireland.

St. Patrick, pray for us

"Crucifixus for 16 voices" by Antonio Caldara

Some beautiful and apt music for Friday, courtesy of inscrutable being.

The Rule of St. Benedict (Part 9)

St. Benedict on Good and Bad Zeal

According to St. Benedict, there is bad zeal, which is "evil and bitter rivalry which keeps one from God and leads to Hell."  There is also good zeal, "which keeps one from vice and leads to God and eternal life."  St. Benedict urges monks to practice good zeal "with ardent love."  He adds:

Let them accept each other's frailties (of body or soul).   Let them try to outdo each other in obedience.  Let no one do what is best for himself, but rather what is best for another.  Let them expend the charity of brotherhoood in chaste love.

St. Benedict, pray for us.