One of the things I often tell couples and families when discussing the subject of marriage is that the wedding is just for a day, whereas the marriage is forever. It is a common saying, and although it is a little bit trite, it is of course true and relevant always. However, I think I … Continue reading “The Blessings Of The Wedding Day” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
“Reaping What We Sow” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
Every year at this time, I dream of corn on the cob . . . It sounds kind of silly I know, but it was always in early August when the corn would “come in” as we used to say. I still remember picking bushel after bushel of Silver Queen corn in both my parent’s … Continue reading “Reaping What We Sow” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
“In Praise of Natural Family Planning” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
One of the greatest joys of being the Director of Family Ministries for the Archdiocese is the ability to connect with so many couples on the road to marriage. It is an awesome responsibility that I take very seriously as we try and help those who are about to make the biggest decision of their … Continue reading “In Praise of Natural Family Planning” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
“Fighting Fair in Love and Marriage” by Lynn H. Turner, Ph.D.
I’ve always been curious about why people (myself included at times) believe that conflict signals problems in a relationship, while the absence of conflict indicates successful relational communication. Whenever I ask my classes whether there’s anyone who enjoys a “good conflict,” the vast majority of my students stare at me in disbelief. Not only are … Continue reading “Fighting Fair in Love and Marriage” by Lynn H. Turner, Ph.D.
“Comfort Is From The Father” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
When attempting to find out what experts consider to be the paramount qualities in a good father, it seems clear right away that consensus on the question does not exist. For every one “considered opinion” there are at least a dozen others who prize things totally different or occasionally even opposite. No wonder there is … Continue reading “Comfort Is From The Father” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
Making Choices: Honey, Let’s Build an Ark (or, You Want to Do What?) By Steve and Kathy Beirne
If you are watching some of the many home repair shows on HGTV, you’re not alone! Home design shows are very popular, and an important element of them involves marital decision–making. Does the couple want a city or country location? What is on their wish list and how important is it? In one show, a … Continue reading Making Choices: Honey, Let’s Build an Ark (or, You Want to Do What?) By Steve and Kathy Beirne
“The Bride Without Shoes” by John Bosio
November 18, 1972. It was the day after our wedding. I remember driving on Interstate 70 east, away from Kansas City toward the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. It was a snowy and windy day, but inside our little car, a 1970 orange-colored Maverick, it was warm and cozy. It was the place where … Continue reading “The Bride Without Shoes” by John Bosio
“Our Beautiful Mother” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
As one of my priest friends has said to me many times, “Mother’s Day is the one Sunday where everyone expects and demands that you to preach sentimentally.” Yes, Mom is usually the most perfect of people for most of us . . . or pretty darn close anyway. The work of a mother is … Continue reading “Our Beautiful Mother” by Deacon Stephen Bowling
Project Rachel . . . Post Abortion Ministry
Healing…Forgiveness…Hope….after the experience of an abortion. Without a doubt, abortion is one of the most traumatic experiences for an individual, not only for the woman who undergoes the abortion, but also for the unborn child’s father, grandparents, relatives and friends. The pain of abortion can be intensified by a sense of alienation from God and … Continue reading Project Rachel . . . Post Abortion Ministry
“Amoris Laetita” which translates as “The Joy Of Love”
Well, the wait is finally over and we have the newly released Apostolic Exhortation "Amoris Laetita" which translates as "The Joy Of Love". The document is 264 pages so it requires some serious reading and rereading . . . the link to the official PDF of the document itself can be found HERE so everyone can download and … Continue reading “Amoris Laetita” which translates as “The Joy Of Love”
