Her acceptance of the Angel Gabriel's announcement that she would bear the Son of God came with the words, "I am the Lord's servant, May it be to me as you have said."
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Fiat
We thank the Blessed Mother Mary for her fiat. Because of her "Yes", we have Christmas Day.
Her acceptance of the Angel Gabriel's announcement that she would bear the Son of God came with the words, "I am the Lord's servant, May it be to me as you have said."
Her acceptance of the Angel Gabriel's announcement that she would bear the Son of God came with the words, "I am the Lord's servant, May it be to me as you have said."
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
Hanging Gardens of Haifa
The Terraces of the Bahá'í Faith, also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, are garden terraces around the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel. They are one of the most visited tourist attractions in Israel. The architect is Fariborz Sahba from Iran. Along with the Baha'i Holy Places in Western Galilee, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beginning at its base, the gardens extend almost a kilometer up the side of Mount Carmel, covering some 200,000 square meters of land. The gardens are linked by a set of stairs flanked by twin streams of running water cascading down the mountainside through the steps and terrace bridges.
The gardens have elements of the Persian paradise gardens, isolating the site from the noise of the surroundings and connecting the different Bahá'í buildings on Mount Carmel together.
Source: Wikipedia
Beginning at its base, the gardens extend almost a kilometer up the side of Mount Carmel, covering some 200,000 square meters of land. The gardens are linked by a set of stairs flanked by twin streams of running water cascading down the mountainside through the steps and terrace bridges.
The gardens have elements of the Persian paradise gardens, isolating the site from the noise of the surroundings and connecting the different Bahá'í buildings on Mount Carmel together.Source: Wikipedia
Sunday, November 6, 2011
City Sights
After a restful night in a fine hotel, we are out for another scenic spot very early in the morning . . .
Along the way, it seemed like a refreshing city tour . . .
Our destination . . . one of the most visited tourist attractions in Israel . . . Haifa.
Excited to see the garden terraces of the Bahá'í Faith, also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, located around the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel.
Along the way, it seemed like a refreshing city tour . . .
Our destination . . . one of the most visited tourist attractions in Israel . . . Haifa.
Excited to see the garden terraces of the Bahá'í Faith, also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, located around the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
The San Damiano Cross
The San Damiano Cross let us see Christ's crucifixion in another angle. Though I came across this one not in my visit to the Holy Land, rather in my pilgrimage in Italy. I feel it is interesting added information.
The San Damiano Cross is the large Romanesque rood cross that St. Francis of Assisi was praying before when he received the commission from the Lord to rebuild the Church. The original cross hangs in the Basilica of Saint Clare (Basilica di Santa Chiara) in Assisi, Italy. Franciscans cherish this cross as the symbol of their mission from God. The cross is of a type sometimes called an icon cross because besides the main figure it contains images of other saints and people related to the incident of Christ's crucifixion. The purpose of an icon cross was to teach the meaning of the event depicted and thereby strengthen the faith of the people.
Jesus Christ is represented both as wounded and strong. He stands upright and resolute. His halo already includes the pictures of the glorified cross. The bright white of the Lord's body contrasts with the dark red and black around it and, therefore, accentuates the prominence of Jesus. He projects the life of divine nature in a body pierced by nails in the hands and feet, by the crown of thorns on his head, and by the soldier's lance in his side. This representation contrasts with the regal Christ portrayed on the cross in earlier centuries and the suffering, dying, crucified Christ depicted generally throughout the Church since the beginning of the 14th century. Christ is represented in full stature while all others are smaller. Above the head of Christ is the inscription in Latin: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.
The next largest figures are the five witnesses of the crucifixion and witnesses of Jesus as Lord. On the left side are the Virgin Mary and St. John the Evangelist, to whom Jesus entrusted his mother. On the right side are Mary Magdalene, Mary, Mother of James, and the centurion who in Matthew's Gospel account asks Christ to heal his son, who is also depicted on the cross on the shoulder of the centurion (Matthew 8:5-13). Both Mary and Mary Magdalene have their hands placed on their cheeks to reflect extreme grief and anguish. The first four witnesses are saints who gave their lives for the Lord and are therefore represented with halos of sanctity. The names of the five major witnesses are written beneath their pictures.
The three smaller figures are represented as witnessing the crucifixion. On the lower left is Longinus the traditional name of the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus with a lance. He is represented here as holding the lance and looking up at Jesus. The blood running down the right arm of Jesus begins at the elbow and drips straight down and will land on the upturned face of Longinus. In the lower right is Stephaton, the traditional name for the soldier who offered Jesus the sponge soaked in vinegar wine. From the his posture, one can see that he holds the staff and sponge in the same way that Longinus holds the lance.
Peering over the left shoulder of the centurion is a small face. A close look reveals the tops of the heads of three others beside him. This represents the centurion's son who was healed by Jesus and the rest of his family to show that "he and his whole household believed" (John 4:45-54).
Six angels are represented as marvelling over the event of the crucifixion. They are positioned at both ends of the crossbar. Their hand gestures indicate they are discussing this wondrous event of the death and calling us to marvel with them.
At the foot of the cross there is a damaged picture of six figures, two of whom are represented with halos. In accordance with the traditions of the day, these six are the patrons of Umbria: St. John, St. Michael, St. Rufino, St. John the Baptist, St. Peter and St. Paul.
On the top of the cross, one sees Jesus now fully clothed in his regal garments and carrying the cross as a triumphant scepter. He is climbing out of the tomb and into the heavenly courts. Ten angels are crowded around, five of whom have their hands extended in a welcoming gesture to Jesus, who himself has his hand raised in the form of a greeting.
At the very top of the cross is the Hand of God with two fingers extended. This is to be understood as the blessing of God the Father on the sacrifice of his Son.
On the right side of the picture next to the left calf of Jesus, there is a small figure of a fowl. Some art historians have interpreted it to be a rooster, representing the sign of Jesus' denial by Peter, mentioned in all four Gospel accounts. Other commentators see it as a peacock, a frequent symbol of immortality in Early Christian art.
Source: Wikipedia
The San Damiano Cross is the large Romanesque rood cross that St. Francis of Assisi was praying before when he received the commission from the Lord to rebuild the Church. The original cross hangs in the Basilica of Saint Clare (Basilica di Santa Chiara) in Assisi, Italy. Franciscans cherish this cross as the symbol of their mission from God. The cross is of a type sometimes called an icon cross because besides the main figure it contains images of other saints and people related to the incident of Christ's crucifixion. The purpose of an icon cross was to teach the meaning of the event depicted and thereby strengthen the faith of the people.Jesus Christ is represented both as wounded and strong. He stands upright and resolute. His halo already includes the pictures of the glorified cross. The bright white of the Lord's body contrasts with the dark red and black around it and, therefore, accentuates the prominence of Jesus. He projects the life of divine nature in a body pierced by nails in the hands and feet, by the crown of thorns on his head, and by the soldier's lance in his side. This representation contrasts with the regal Christ portrayed on the cross in earlier centuries and the suffering, dying, crucified Christ depicted generally throughout the Church since the beginning of the 14th century. Christ is represented in full stature while all others are smaller. Above the head of Christ is the inscription in Latin: Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.
The next largest figures are the five witnesses of the crucifixion and witnesses of Jesus as Lord. On the left side are the Virgin Mary and St. John the Evangelist, to whom Jesus entrusted his mother. On the right side are Mary Magdalene, Mary, Mother of James, and the centurion who in Matthew's Gospel account asks Christ to heal his son, who is also depicted on the cross on the shoulder of the centurion (Matthew 8:5-13). Both Mary and Mary Magdalene have their hands placed on their cheeks to reflect extreme grief and anguish. The first four witnesses are saints who gave their lives for the Lord and are therefore represented with halos of sanctity. The names of the five major witnesses are written beneath their pictures.
The three smaller figures are represented as witnessing the crucifixion. On the lower left is Longinus the traditional name of the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus with a lance. He is represented here as holding the lance and looking up at Jesus. The blood running down the right arm of Jesus begins at the elbow and drips straight down and will land on the upturned face of Longinus. In the lower right is Stephaton, the traditional name for the soldier who offered Jesus the sponge soaked in vinegar wine. From the his posture, one can see that he holds the staff and sponge in the same way that Longinus holds the lance.
Peering over the left shoulder of the centurion is a small face. A close look reveals the tops of the heads of three others beside him. This represents the centurion's son who was healed by Jesus and the rest of his family to show that "he and his whole household believed" (John 4:45-54).
Six angels are represented as marvelling over the event of the crucifixion. They are positioned at both ends of the crossbar. Their hand gestures indicate they are discussing this wondrous event of the death and calling us to marvel with them.
At the foot of the cross there is a damaged picture of six figures, two of whom are represented with halos. In accordance with the traditions of the day, these six are the patrons of Umbria: St. John, St. Michael, St. Rufino, St. John the Baptist, St. Peter and St. Paul.
On the top of the cross, one sees Jesus now fully clothed in his regal garments and carrying the cross as a triumphant scepter. He is climbing out of the tomb and into the heavenly courts. Ten angels are crowded around, five of whom have their hands extended in a welcoming gesture to Jesus, who himself has his hand raised in the form of a greeting.
At the very top of the cross is the Hand of God with two fingers extended. This is to be understood as the blessing of God the Father on the sacrifice of his Son.
On the right side of the picture next to the left calf of Jesus, there is a small figure of a fowl. Some art historians have interpreted it to be a rooster, representing the sign of Jesus' denial by Peter, mentioned in all four Gospel accounts. Other commentators see it as a peacock, a frequent symbol of immortality in Early Christian art.
Source: Wikipedia
Monday, October 24, 2011
The Dome of the Rock
Below is the panorama of the Western Wall with the Dome of the Rock at the background (at the center, gold in color) .
The Dome of the Rock is a shrine located on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem. The site's significance stems from religious traditions regarding the rock, known as the Foundation Stone, at its heart. The Dome of the Rock is located at the visual center of a platform known as the Temple Mount.
The Dome of the Rock is a shrine located on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem. The site's significance stems from religious traditions regarding the rock, known as the Foundation Stone, at its heart. The Dome of the Rock is located at the visual center of a platform known as the Temple Mount.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Prayers on the Wall
So excited that particular day, for we went to visit the "Wailing Wall" also known as the Western Wall. We were to go there to say our earnest prayers, prayers we brought along in our hearts and written down on paper.
I think I am suppose to continue to face the wall, even if I was already walking away from it.
Oooh. What now? The papers are so big, I can't insert them in the cracks, without them falling off. What to do? Re-write the prayers on smaller sizes of paper. There, there, success!!!
Look at the slips of paper containing prayers in the cracks of the Wall.
We all have that common faith and hope that we will receive answers to offered prayers. Blessings to us all!
I think I am suppose to continue to face the wall, even if I was already walking away from it.Oooh. What now? The papers are so big, I can't insert them in the cracks, without them falling off. What to do? Re-write the prayers on smaller sizes of paper. There, there, success!!!
Look at the slips of paper containing prayers in the cracks of the Wall.
We all have that common faith and hope that we will receive answers to offered prayers. Blessings to us all!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
On Trust
Be still and know that I am God :
I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
It's time to surrender everything to Him and to totally put my trust in Him. Let Him be my guide.
Paired to the verse above is the verse below.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
The photo was taken at the Benedictine Monastery, the Monastere de la Resurrection, one of the most beautiful buildings preserved from the Crusader Period that can still be visited.
I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:10
It's time to surrender everything to Him and to totally put my trust in Him. Let Him be my guide.Paired to the verse above is the verse below.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
The photo was taken at the Benedictine Monastery, the Monastere de la Resurrection, one of the most beautiful buildings preserved from the Crusader Period that can still be visited.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Mater Dolorosa
Today is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Sorrows.
Below are some of the photos I took at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Golgotha) in Jerusalem.
Our Lady of Sorrows, the Sorrowful Mother or Mother of Sorrows and Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows or Our Lady of the Seven Dolors are names by which the Blessed Virgin Mary is referred to in relation to sorrows in her life.
As Mater Dolorosa, it is also a key subject for Marian art in the Catholic Church.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary are a popular Roman Catholic devotion. There are devotional prayers which consist of meditation on her Seven Sorrows.
The Seven Sorrows (or Dolors) are events in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary which are a popular devotion and are frequently depicted in art.
It is a common devotion for Catholics to say daily one Our Father and seven Hail Mary for each.
1. The Prophecy of Simeon. (Luke 2:34-35)
2. The Flight into Egypt. (Matthew 2:13)
3. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple. (Luke 2:43-45)
4. Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary. (Luke 23:26)
5. Jesus Dies on the Cross. (John 19:25)
6. Mary Receives the Body of Jesus in Her Arms. (Matthew 27:57-59)
7. The Body of Jesus Is Placed in the Tomb. (John 19:40-42)
Below are some of the photos I took at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Golgotha) in Jerusalem.
Our Lady of Sorrows, the Sorrowful Mother or Mother of Sorrows and Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows or Our Lady of the Seven Dolors are names by which the Blessed Virgin Mary is referred to in relation to sorrows in her life.As Mater Dolorosa, it is also a key subject for Marian art in the Catholic Church.
The Seven Sorrows of Mary are a popular Roman Catholic devotion. There are devotional prayers which consist of meditation on her Seven Sorrows.The Seven Sorrows (or Dolors) are events in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary which are a popular devotion and are frequently depicted in art.
It is a common devotion for Catholics to say daily one Our Father and seven Hail Mary for each.1. The Prophecy of Simeon. (Luke 2:34-35)
2. The Flight into Egypt. (Matthew 2:13)
3. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple. (Luke 2:43-45)
4. Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary. (Luke 23:26)
5. Jesus Dies on the Cross. (John 19:25)
6. Mary Receives the Body of Jesus in Her Arms. (Matthew 27:57-59)
7. The Body of Jesus Is Placed in the Tomb. (John 19:40-42)
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Birthday Greeting
Just wanna greet our mother "Happy Birthday, Mama Mary"!
Photo taken in Haifa, Israel. This is at the Stella Maris Monastery, a 19th-century Carmelite monastery located on the slopes of Mount Carmel.
Photo taken in Haifa, Israel. This is at the Stella Maris Monastery, a 19th-century Carmelite monastery located on the slopes of Mount Carmel.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
The Prayer of the Heart
The Jesus Prayer . . . the prayer of the heart . . .
"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
When I arise in the morning, it starts me joyfully upon a new day. When I travel by air, land, or sea, it sings within my breast When I stand upon a platform and face my listeners, it beats encouragement. When I gather my children around me, it murmurs a blessing. And at the end of a weary day, when I lay me down to rest, I give my heart over to Jesus: "(Lord) into thy hands I commend my spirit". I sleep--but my heart as it beats prays on: "JESUS."
H.R.H. Princess Ileana of Romania
By the grace of God I am a Christian, by my deeds a great sinner, . . .
From the book "The Way of a Pilgrim and the Pilgrim Continues His Way"
The photo I took (in such awe) when I visited the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.
"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
When I arise in the morning, it starts me joyfully upon a new day. When I travel by air, land, or sea, it sings within my breast When I stand upon a platform and face my listeners, it beats encouragement. When I gather my children around me, it murmurs a blessing. And at the end of a weary day, when I lay me down to rest, I give my heart over to Jesus: "(Lord) into thy hands I commend my spirit". I sleep--but my heart as it beats prays on: "JESUS."
H.R.H. Princess Ileana of Romania
By the grace of God I am a Christian, by my deeds a great sinner, . . .From the book "The Way of a Pilgrim and the Pilgrim Continues His Way"
The photo I took (in such awe) when I visited the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
God's Words
Three bible verses keep on crossing my mind today, all from the gospel of Matthew.
Photo below was taken at "The Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes", located in Tabgha, on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel.
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
Matthew 6: 21
Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear.
Matthew 6: 25
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.
Matthew 6: 31
God's words are powerful, they multiply blessings. God bless you with His words, the words of life.
May the Lord bless you exceedingly, abundantly, above all you could ever hope for.
Philippians 4:19.
Photo below was taken at "The Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes", located in Tabgha, on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel.
For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
Matthew 6: 21
Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear.
Matthew 6: 25
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.
Matthew 6: 31
God's words are powerful, they multiply blessings. God bless you with His words, the words of life.
May the Lord bless you exceedingly, abundantly, above all you could ever hope for.
Philippians 4:19.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Frescoes
Remember "the walk in Emmaus"?
Abu Ghosh is located in the middle of the Kiryat Yearim Ridge Route between Nicopolis and Jerusalem, nine miles from the capital. A convent of Minorites with a Gothic church in Abu Ghosh was turned into a stable. Robinson dated it to the Crusader period and declared it "more perfectly preserved than any other ancient church in Palestine." Excavations carried out in 1944 corresponded with Crusader identification of the site as Emmaus.
Source: Wikipedia
It was in Abu Gosh, where I was able to visit our very first church in Israel, that's between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Awesome! It is the Benedictine Monastery, the Monastere de la Resurrection, one of the most beautiful buildings preserved from the Crusader Period that can still be visited.
What caught my eye was the fresco, of faceless people including Jesus Christ, covering part of the walls of the church. Got the feeling that these work of art dated way back.
Also, a fountain flows from the crypt at the base of the monastery.
We celebrated mass in the church, one that uplifted our souls.
I do remember seeing frescoes in Italy. Did some research and found the notes below.
Frescoes are paintings which are executed on plaster. Italy is particularly famous for its frescoes, but the art form can also be found in other cultures as well, where the relatively dry climate preserves frescoes. Many frescoes are quite ancient. The primary advantage of traditional frescoes is that they are surprisingly durable. Ancient frescoes which are hundreds of years old have been found more or less intact, or with enough clear imagery to make it easy to fill in the blanks. Since the pigments are bound to the plaster, they do not flake or chip off over the years. Most frescoes are executed on a huge scale, which can actually be quite challenging for the artist. Artists must create works of art which look pleasing up close and from a distance, often employing tricks of perspective to enhance the finished work.
Source : Wise Geek
Abu Ghosh is located in the middle of the Kiryat Yearim Ridge Route between Nicopolis and Jerusalem, nine miles from the capital. A convent of Minorites with a Gothic church in Abu Ghosh was turned into a stable. Robinson dated it to the Crusader period and declared it "more perfectly preserved than any other ancient church in Palestine." Excavations carried out in 1944 corresponded with Crusader identification of the site as Emmaus.
Source: Wikipedia
It was in Abu Gosh, where I was able to visit our very first church in Israel, that's between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Awesome! It is the Benedictine Monastery, the Monastere de la Resurrection, one of the most beautiful buildings preserved from the Crusader Period that can still be visited.
What caught my eye was the fresco, of faceless people including Jesus Christ, covering part of the walls of the church. Got the feeling that these work of art dated way back.
Also, a fountain flows from the crypt at the base of the monastery.
We celebrated mass in the church, one that uplifted our souls.
I do remember seeing frescoes in Italy. Did some research and found the notes below.
Frescoes are paintings which are executed on plaster. Italy is particularly famous for its frescoes, but the art form can also be found in other cultures as well, where the relatively dry climate preserves frescoes. Many frescoes are quite ancient. The primary advantage of traditional frescoes is that they are surprisingly durable. Ancient frescoes which are hundreds of years old have been found more or less intact, or with enough clear imagery to make it easy to fill in the blanks. Since the pigments are bound to the plaster, they do not flake or chip off over the years. Most frescoes are executed on a huge scale, which can actually be quite challenging for the artist. Artists must create works of art which look pleasing up close and from a distance, often employing tricks of perspective to enhance the finished work.
Source : Wise Geek
Monday, August 1, 2011
Choose God Over Your Mountain
An excerpt from Bo Sanchez's article, just what I needed now . . .
Mountains seem big. They’re one of the biggest things our eyes can see. And mountains seem immovable. You don’t wake up each morning asking, “Hmm, I wonder where Mount Everest traveled today…” Some of us think of our problems as mountains because they’re big and they’re immovable. You see your financial problem as a mountain, your physical sickness as a mountain, your relationship problem as a mountain… Many times, problems seem permanent. But they’re not. I believe God is permanent; And God’s Love is permanent; And God’s plan to bless you is permanent; And you are permanent! But all problems are temporary.
It’s really your choice. Will you have faith in God or in your mountains?
Mountains seem big. They’re one of the biggest things our eyes can see. And mountains seem immovable. You don’t wake up each morning asking, “Hmm, I wonder where Mount Everest traveled today…” Some of us think of our problems as mountains because they’re big and they’re immovable. You see your financial problem as a mountain, your physical sickness as a mountain, your relationship problem as a mountain… Many times, problems seem permanent. But they’re not. I believe God is permanent; And God’s Love is permanent; And God’s plan to bless you is permanent; And you are permanent! But all problems are temporary. 
It’s really your choice. Will you have faith in God or in your mountains?
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Relics
At church, the priest shared his insights on relics. I came to know why we do what we do - kiss images of saints, touch them or use our handkerchiefs to wipe the statues of Jesus and Mary.
During our pilgrimage, people were in a hurry to line-up just to be able to go near and touch famous relics like the Nativity Star inside the Church of the Nativity.
This silver star, beneath the altar in the Grotto of the Nativity, marks the spot believed to be the Birthplace of Jesus.
A relic is an object or a personal item of religious significance, carefully preserved with an air of veneration as a tangible memorial. Relics are an important aspect of some forms of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Shamanism, and many other religions.
The word relic comes from the Latin reliquiae, meaning "remains". A reliquary is a shrine that houses one or more relics.
* First-Class Relics: Items directly associated with the events of Christ's life (manger, cross, etc.), or the physical remains of a saint (a bone, a hair, a limb, etc.). Traditionally, a martyr's relics are often more prized than the relics of other saints. Also, some saints' relics are known for their extraordinary incorruptibility and so would have high regard. Parts of the saint that were significant to that saint's life are more prized relics. For instance, King St. Stephen of Hungary's right forearm is especially important because of his status as a ruler. A famous theologian's head may be his most important relic. (The head of St. Thomas Aquinas was removed by the monks at the Cistercian abbey at Fossanova where he died). If a saint did a lot of travelling then the bones of his feet may be prized. Current Catholic teaching prohibits relics to be divided up into small, unrecognizable parts if they are to be used in liturgy (i.e., as in an altar; see the rubrics listed in Rite Of Dedication of a Church and an Altar).
* Second-Class Relics: An item that the saint wore (a shirt, a glove, etc.) Also included is an item that the saint owned or frequently used, for example, a crucifix, rosary, book etc. Again, an item more important in the saint's life is thus a more important relic.
* Third-Class Relics: Any object that is touched to a first- or second-class relic. Most third-class relics are small pieces of cloth.
The sale of relics is strictly forbidden by the Church.
Below is a stone where the dead body of our Lord was laid.
Saint Jerome declared, "We do not worship, we do not adore, for fear that we should bow down to the creature rather than to the creator, but we venerate the relics of the martyrs in order the better to adore him whose martyrs they are."
Source: Wikipedia
During our pilgrimage, people were in a hurry to line-up just to be able to go near and touch famous relics like the Nativity Star inside the Church of the Nativity.
This silver star, beneath the altar in the Grotto of the Nativity, marks the spot believed to be the Birthplace of Jesus.
A relic is an object or a personal item of religious significance, carefully preserved with an air of veneration as a tangible memorial. Relics are an important aspect of some forms of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Shamanism, and many other religions.The word relic comes from the Latin reliquiae, meaning "remains". A reliquary is a shrine that houses one or more relics.
* First-Class Relics: Items directly associated with the events of Christ's life (manger, cross, etc.), or the physical remains of a saint (a bone, a hair, a limb, etc.). Traditionally, a martyr's relics are often more prized than the relics of other saints. Also, some saints' relics are known for their extraordinary incorruptibility and so would have high regard. Parts of the saint that were significant to that saint's life are more prized relics. For instance, King St. Stephen of Hungary's right forearm is especially important because of his status as a ruler. A famous theologian's head may be his most important relic. (The head of St. Thomas Aquinas was removed by the monks at the Cistercian abbey at Fossanova where he died). If a saint did a lot of travelling then the bones of his feet may be prized. Current Catholic teaching prohibits relics to be divided up into small, unrecognizable parts if they are to be used in liturgy (i.e., as in an altar; see the rubrics listed in Rite Of Dedication of a Church and an Altar).
* Second-Class Relics: An item that the saint wore (a shirt, a glove, etc.) Also included is an item that the saint owned or frequently used, for example, a crucifix, rosary, book etc. Again, an item more important in the saint's life is thus a more important relic.
* Third-Class Relics: Any object that is touched to a first- or second-class relic. Most third-class relics are small pieces of cloth.
The sale of relics is strictly forbidden by the Church.
Below is a stone where the dead body of our Lord was laid.
Saint Jerome declared, "We do not worship, we do not adore, for fear that we should bow down to the creature rather than to the creator, but we venerate the relics of the martyrs in order the better to adore him whose martyrs they are."Source: Wikipedia
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Baha'i Gardens
Friday, July 1, 2011
Go Quotes
If you can dream it, you can do it.
All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.
We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.
The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.
Mickey Mouse popped out of my mind onto a drawing pad 20 years ago on a train ride from Manhattan to Hollywood at a time when business fortunes of my brother Roy and myself were at lowest ebb and disaster seemed right around the corner.
All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.
Walt Disney
Source: Brainy Quotes
All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.
We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.
Mickey Mouse popped out of my mind onto a drawing pad 20 years ago on a train ride from Manhattan to Hollywood at a time when business fortunes of my brother Roy and myself were at lowest ebb and disaster seemed right around the corner.
All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.
Walt Disney
Source: Brainy Quotes
Thursday, June 30, 2011
A New Friend, A New Sister in A New Place
One great thing about my travels? Having to experience new places with new friends.
Pinpin is an addition to my list. She's been one of my roommates in discovering Israel. We exchanged women secrets, heheh.
I thank God for the opportunity to gain sisters.
Pinpin is an addition to my list. She's been one of my roommates in discovering Israel. We exchanged women secrets, heheh.
I thank God for the opportunity to gain sisters.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
The Menorah and The Number Seven
The Menorah is described in the Bible as the seven-branched candelabrum made of gold and used in the portable sanctuary set up by Moses in the wilderness and later in the Temple in Jerusalem.
A ceremonial seven-branched candelabrum of the Jewish Temple symbolizing the seven days of the Creation.
The lamps of the menorah were lit daily from fresh, consecrated olive oil and burned from evening until morning, according to Exodus 27.
The menorah consisted of a base and a shaft with six branches, beaten out of solid gold. The six branches curved to the height of the central shaft so that all seven lamps at their apexes were in a straight line.
The symbolic meaning of the Number Seven reaches its apex in the Menorah, the seven-branched candlestick designed by God Himself to be a perpetual light in His Tabernacle. The Lord emphasized its Divine origin when He instructed Moses twice, to be sure to follow the pattern that He Himself revealed when they met for forty days on Mount Sinai. Exodus 40.
And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same. And six branches shall come out of the sides of it; three branches of the candlestick out of the one side, and three branches of the candlestick out of the other side. And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof. And they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it. And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was showed to thee on the mount. Exodus 25.
Source: Wikipedia
A ceremonial seven-branched candelabrum of the Jewish Temple symbolizing the seven days of the Creation.The lamps of the menorah were lit daily from fresh, consecrated olive oil and burned from evening until morning, according to Exodus 27.
The menorah consisted of a base and a shaft with six branches, beaten out of solid gold. The six branches curved to the height of the central shaft so that all seven lamps at their apexes were in a straight line.The symbolic meaning of the Number Seven reaches its apex in the Menorah, the seven-branched candlestick designed by God Himself to be a perpetual light in His Tabernacle. The Lord emphasized its Divine origin when He instructed Moses twice, to be sure to follow the pattern that He Himself revealed when they met for forty days on Mount Sinai. Exodus 40.
And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same. And six branches shall come out of the sides of it; three branches of the candlestick out of the one side, and three branches of the candlestick out of the other side. And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof. And they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it. And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was showed to thee on the mount. Exodus 25.Source: Wikipedia
Friday, June 10, 2011
How About Tips on Effective Leadership
Yeah, how about taking a detour . . .
Excerpt from Francis Kong article . . .
There is a big difference between what is urgent and what is vital. Just because something is urgent may not mean it is important. And just because some tasks can wait does not mean it is not vital.
Effective leaders ask this one important question: “If I can accomplish only one thing today, what will it be?”
Time and tasks. Aren’t these the most important things we deal with on a daily basis yet guess how many people squander it?
Photo taken at the Milk Grotto in Jerusalem where our tour guide was showing that underneath the wall is the white powder.
Something will master and something will serve. Either you run the day or the day runs you; either you run the business or the business runs you.
Learn how to separate the majors and the minors. A lot of people don't do well simply because they major in minor things. Days are expensive. When you spend a day you have one less day to spend. So make sure you spend each one wisely.
Each day is a gift from God but we do not waste the gift and throw it away.
We make the best use of it.
E-mail: franciskong@businessmatters.org
Radio program “Business Matters” aired 8:30a.m. and 6:30 p.m. (98.7 dzFE-FM)
Excerpt from Francis Kong article . . .
There is a big difference between what is urgent and what is vital. Just because something is urgent may not mean it is important. And just because some tasks can wait does not mean it is not vital.
Effective leaders ask this one important question: “If I can accomplish only one thing today, what will it be?”
Time and tasks. Aren’t these the most important things we deal with on a daily basis yet guess how many people squander it?
Photo taken at the Milk Grotto in Jerusalem where our tour guide was showing that underneath the wall is the white powder.Something will master and something will serve. Either you run the day or the day runs you; either you run the business or the business runs you.
Learn how to separate the majors and the minors. A lot of people don't do well simply because they major in minor things. Days are expensive. When you spend a day you have one less day to spend. So make sure you spend each one wisely.
Each day is a gift from God but we do not waste the gift and throw it away.
We make the best use of it.
E-mail: franciskong@businessmatters.org
Radio program “Business Matters” aired 8:30a.m. and 6:30 p.m. (98.7 dzFE-FM)
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Milk Grotto
I met a nice couple who married at the age of 35-36 years old. They've been a couple for about 6 months now. Of course, their wish is to have a fruit of their love, a darling baby.
I remembered I also met a couple pilgrim, married for 7 years. They're still waiting for a baby. They requested to visit the Milk Grotto even if it was not included in our itinerary.
The Milk Grotto, located in Bethlehem, is a place you would want to go to if you are yearning to have a child. It is a place where the Blessed Mary and the child Jesus are featured as mother-and-child.
The Milk Grotto was where the Holy Family took refuge during the "Slaughter of the Innocents", prior to the "Flight to Egypt". Tradition has it that while Mary was nursing Jesus in this place, a her drop of milk fell onto the ground, turning it white.
Thus when we visited, there's a white-powder product available in the place for would-like-to-be mothers. But of course, we receive anything we ask for in prayers, according to our faith.
I remembered I also met a couple pilgrim, married for 7 years. They're still waiting for a baby. They requested to visit the Milk Grotto even if it was not included in our itinerary.
The Milk Grotto, located in Bethlehem, is a place you would want to go to if you are yearning to have a child. It is a place where the Blessed Mary and the child Jesus are featured as mother-and-child.
The Milk Grotto was where the Holy Family took refuge during the "Slaughter of the Innocents", prior to the "Flight to Egypt". Tradition has it that while Mary was nursing Jesus in this place, a her drop of milk fell onto the ground, turning it white.
Thus when we visited, there's a white-powder product available in the place for would-like-to-be mothers. But of course, we receive anything we ask for in prayers, according to our faith.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
God Bless Us
There is a reason for everything and God who is Great has greater plans for us. It is He who blesses our work and business, not our pure efforts and skills.
However, I also believe that we have God-given talents. These talents must be put into use for our benefit and for others. If we do not hone them, ultimately, we will lose them.
Photo taken in Tel Aviv, Israel.
May God who is ever generous give us wisdom, patience and grace to do what we are here to do.
God bless!
However, I also believe that we have God-given talents. These talents must be put into use for our benefit and for others. If we do not hone them, ultimately, we will lose them.
Photo taken in Tel Aviv, Israel.May God who is ever generous give us wisdom, patience and grace to do what we are here to do.
God bless!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Getting to Know Hummus
Yup, I was introduced to this new world of food, different from Pinoy or Chinese cuisine.
Food here has a certain herbal taste. One dish that is never ever absent on the table is hummus. Love it with pita or bread.
Hummus is a Levantine Arab dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. It is a popular food throughout the Middle East and elsewhere.
Hummus is a common part of everyday meals in Israel. Israelis elevated Hummus to become a "national food symbol" and consume more than twice as much hummus as their Arab neighbors, according to figures by Tsabar Salads, a hummus manufacturer in Israel.
As an appetizer and dip, hummus is scooped with flat bread (such as pita). It is also served as part of a meze or as an accompaniment to falafel, grilled chicken, fish or eggplant. Garnishes include chopped tomato, cucumber, cilantro, parsley, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, whole chickpeas, olive oil, hard-boiled eggs, paprika, sumac, ful, olives and pickles.
Source: Wikipedia
Food here has a certain herbal taste. One dish that is never ever absent on the table is hummus. Love it with pita or bread.
Hummus is a Levantine Arab dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. It is a popular food throughout the Middle East and elsewhere.
Hummus is a common part of everyday meals in Israel. Israelis elevated Hummus to become a "national food symbol" and consume more than twice as much hummus as their Arab neighbors, according to figures by Tsabar Salads, a hummus manufacturer in Israel.
As an appetizer and dip, hummus is scooped with flat bread (such as pita). It is also served as part of a meze or as an accompaniment to falafel, grilled chicken, fish or eggplant. Garnishes include chopped tomato, cucumber, cilantro, parsley, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, whole chickpeas, olive oil, hard-boiled eggs, paprika, sumac, ful, olives and pickles.
Source: Wikipedia
Saturday, April 23, 2011
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