Weekly Catholic Manhood Moment: Wisdom of the Heart
May 12 2024 Ascension Sunday or Seventh Sunday of Easter
Ascension: Year B, Mark 16:15-20: The Lord Jesus was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.
Seventh Sunday: Year B, John 17:11b-17: That they may be one just as we are one!
In His prayer before His crucifixion, Jesus prays that His disciples will remain united as one, just as He and the Father are one. He asks God to protect His disciples and keep them safe from the evil one. Jesus prays not only for His current disciples, but also for all believers who will come to have faith in Him because of the disciples’ message. His desire is for all of His followers to experience perfect unity, just as He shares unity with the Father. Jesus concludes His prayer by asking God to sanctify believers with the truth, which is God’s word.
The Ascension of Jesus Christ, which the Church celebrates this Sunday, confirms our faith that we will share in His resurrection and ascension to heaven. Just as Christ rose from the dead in His glorified human body, we believe that we will also rise with new, immortal bodies. Jesus’ Ascension to the right hand of the Father guarantees that we have a place prepared for us in heaven. When our earthly life ends, we will begin our true eternal life of happiness in God’s heavenly kingdom. All who trust in Christ can look forward with hope to the day when they too will ascend to their true home with God.
This Sunday is also World Communications Day. Pope Francis announced the theme for the 58th World Communications Day, to be held in 2024 as Artificial intelligence and wisdom of the heart: for a fully human communication.
The holy Father says in a nutshell, the advancement of artificial intelligence systems has made communicating through machines feel natural. It has become difficult to distinguish machine-generated language from human language. Like other revolutions based on AI, this poses challenges to ensure machines do not spread misinformation or increase loneliness in isolated people by replacing warm human communication. The Pope says .. It is important to guide AI and algorithms so each individual is responsible for how they use and develop different communication forms on social media and the Internet. Communication needs to be oriented towards enhancing human life in a fuller way
In my work with CMCS, I’ve noticed a growing role for artificial intelligence in various contexts, from blog posts to email newsletters and images. Its impact is profound and transformative, unlike anything we’ve seen before. However, Pope Francis emphasizes the need to maintain a balance, as we risk becoming overly reliant on technology at the expense of our humanity. He suggests that understanding our current era and its technological advancements requires a spiritual perspective and a return to the wisdom of the heart. This wisdom, a gift from the Holy Spirit, allows us to view the world with divine insight, revealing connections and uncovering the true meaning of situations and events. It is accessible to those who seek it and is visible to those who cherish it.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly prevalent, it’s crucial that we work together to enhance our ability to discern and stay vigilant, ensuring that we maintain a human-centered perspective. By seeking the wisdom that existed before all things (Sir 1:4), we can effectively utilize artificial intelligence to support authentic and meaningful communication. This wisdom will guide us in using technology in a way that aligns with our humanity, rather than allowing it to lead us astray.
Gospel Mk 16:15-20 Jesus said to his disciples: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.
Listen here to the recording discussion from the latest Catholic Manhood Discussions. May 6, 2024 we talked about how the The Surgeon General says there is an epidemic of male loneliness.
By Frank J Casella
The Loneliness Epidemic: How Disconnection Contributes to Men’s Mental Health Crisis
Introduction: Men are experiencing a mental health crisis, with higher rates of suicide and addiction than ever before. But what’s causing this alarming trend? While there are many factors at play, one major contributor is loneliness.
I. The Importance of Connection
* Human beings are wired for connection and communion with others. * Lack of companionship can lead to mental disorders. * Genesis 2:18 reminds us that “it is not good for the man to be alone.”
II. The Breakdown of the Family
* The decline of multi-generational families living by eath other and the breakdown of the nuclear family has led to isolation. * Men are spending less time with friends and family, leading to a lack of connection.
III. The Impact of Broken Attachments
* Eye contact from birth provides a profound sense of connection. * The breakdown of the family has led to wounded attachments, which can contribute to a number of disorders.
IV. The Tension between Individualism and Belonging
* American culture values individualism and personal choice, but Catholic social teaching calls us to belong to something bigger than ourselves. * We are each called to be part of a family, a church, and the mystical body.
Conclusion: The loneliness epidemic is a complex issue, but one thing is clear: human connection is essential for mental health. By prioritizing relationships and building strong connections with others, we can help address the mental health crisis among men.
Recently in his Mass homily at Holy Name Cathedral, Rev. Louis Cameli shared how loneliness is a growing problem in today’s disconnected world. With increasing isolation through electronics and family separation, connection is more important than ever for well-being. He says that Jesus calls us to remain in him to find purpose and overcome feelings of a stalled life. By opening ourselves to growth through obedience to God’s commandments and participation in the Eucharist, we tap into divine life as branches on the vine. Then we can stay connected to God and each other, progress in our spiritual journey, and bear fruit that makes a difference in this world. True purpose and fulfillment come from living as part of Christ’s body through faith and communion with him.
Prepare to be enlightened, Catholic men of Chicago Southland, as we delve into the words of St. John 15:9-17. The Gospel reveals the incredible love and sacrifice of Christ, who has bestowed upon us endless blessings and opportunities. Yet, with our free will, we hold the power to reject these gifts in a moment of reckless abandon.
We can choose to discard eternal happiness for fleeting pleasures here on earth. How foolish and selfish it would be to turn our backs on the love of God, to reject his divine purpose for our existence. Let us never falter in our devotion and appreciation for the boundless love of our Creator.
Life is a magnificent gift, filled with endless possibilities and experiences. Yet, it can be daunting to think that all we have to look forward to is the cold, dark grave. To live in a world that often feels like a never-ending valley of agony and tears, with no hope for a brighter future, would be the cruelest of ironies.
But fear not, for there is more to this existence than what meets the eye. We have a powerful ally in God, in His three divine forms of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. How lucky are we to have the opportunity to love and be loved by the Blessed Trinity. And the best way to express our gratitude is by extending that love to our fellow human beings.
In fact, by simply loving others, we are fulfilling the entire law and the teachings of the prophets. It is a surefire way to secure our spot in heaven, thanks to the victory won by Christ. Embrace love, and watch as the magic of life unfolds before your very eyes. But let us never forget the magnitude of God’s love for us, and the true purpose of our existence.
Gospel Jn 15:9-17 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.
"I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy might be complete. This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you: love one another.”
Are you leading your family to Mass at least every Sunday? It’s not what you get from the Mass but what you bring to it …. How you bring yourself to the Altar as a Living Sacrifice to Jesus.
10 Quotes That Will Change the Way You Attend Holy Mass
1. When the Eucharist is being celebrated, the sanctuary is filled with countless angels who adore the divine victim immolated on the altar. ~ St. John Chrysostom
2. The angels surround and help the priest when he is celebrating Mass. ~ St. Augustine
3. The celebration of Holy Mass is as valuable as the death of Jesus on the cross. ~ Saint Thomas Aquinas
4. Once, St. Teresa was overwhelmed with God’s Goodness and asked Our Lord “How can I thank you?” Our Lord replied, “ATTEND ONE MASS.”
5. “My Son so loves those who assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass that, if it were necessary He would die for them as many times as they’ve heard Masses.” Our Lady to Blessed Alan.
6. When we receive Holy Communion, we experience something extraordinary – a joy, a fragrance, a well-being that thrills the whole body and causes it to exalt. ~ Saint Jean Vianney
7. There is nothing so great as the Eucharist. If God had something more precious, He would have given it to us. ~ Saint Jean Vianney
8. When we have been to Holy Communion, the balm of love envelops the soul as the flower envelops the bee. ~ Saint Jean Vianney
9. It would be easier for the world to survive without the sun than to do without Holy Mass. ~ St. Pio of Pietrelcina
10. If we really understood the Mass, we would die of joy. ~ Saint Jean Vianney
Catholic Man Moment: Our Deeds That Reflects Our Faith
April 28 2024
Fifth Sunday of Easter
Year B: John 12:20-33: “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.”
Embark on a spiritual journey as we delve into the powerful words of St. John, where the Gospel speaks of being the chosen vine of the Lord. Just like a skilled vine grower, God prunes us to bear abundant fruit and glorify His name. With His word ingrained in us, we have the power to ask and receive whatever we desire, all for the glory of His kingdom. As true disciples, we are already pruned and ready to bear the fruits of Catholic manhood.
Unlocking the Way to True Catholic Manhood
Embracing the teachings of the Gospel and living a life of true Christian virtue is no simple task. In a world full of distractions and temptations, the path to righteousness is fraught with challenges. And in our present time, these obstacles seem to have multiplied at an alarming rate. The allures of this world have been enhanced by the luxuries and pleasures made possible by advancements in science and technology. As humans, we are naturally drawn to the easy way out, and with so many opportunities for indulgence, even the most devout Catholic can struggle to resist the pull of worldly pleasures.
The Gospel of St. John 15:1-8 is a powerful reminder of the key to true Catholic manhood. Just as a branch must remain connected to the vine in order to bear fruit, we too must remain closely united with our Lord if we hope to bear the fruits of Heaven. His promise to us is clear: if we diligently follow his commandments, our prayers will be heard and our requests answered. As we face the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil, let us not lose heart. Rather, let us pray for the grace to overcome and strive daily to lead a virtuous Christian life - a call to true Catholic manhood.
Our deeds, both big and small, like branches on a vine, will bear fruit that reflects our faith and reveals our dedication to living a life worthy of our Savior. Let us embrace this call with open hearts and strive to bear good fruit for the glory of God.
Gospel
Jn 15:1-8
Jesus said to his disciples:
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower.
He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit,
and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit.
You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you.
Remain in me, as I remain in you.
Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own
unless it remains on the vine,
so neither can you unless you remain in me.
I am the vine, you are the branches.
Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit,
because without me you can do nothing.
Anyone who does not remain in me
will be thrown out like a branch and wither;
people will gather them and throw them into a fire
and they will be burned.
If you remain in me and my words remain in you,
ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.
By this is my Father glorified,
that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”
About Springtime of each year I usually write to you a state of cmcs report. However this year I’m going to post this video here instead of a blog post. I think it will bring more clarity to this report.
Frank Casella, co-founder and executive director of Catholic men Chicago Southland.
The Gospel of St. John 10:11-18 speaks of Christ as the ultimate Good Shepherd, a figure that has long resonated with the hearts of men. We see this depicted in one of the earliest paintings of Christ found in the ancient Roman catacombs, where he tenderly carries a wounded sheep upon his shoulders. This powerful image of love stirs something deep within us, for we do not mind being compared to sheep in this context. Indeed, there is a certain innocence and simplicity in these gentle creatures, but also a hint of foolishness. Is it not a reflection of the majority of men, even those who openly oppose Christ? Are we not like sheep in our pride and arrogance, believing ourselves to be all-knowing and self-sufficient?
The story of Christ as our protector and guide has a timeless appeal. It speaks to the deepest nature of man - the need for guidance and protection. As humans, we are like sheep, with limited understanding and a tendency to think we know it all. But just like a sheep who strays from the shepherd, a man who rejects the wisdom of God and His Church is like a lost soul in the wilderness. True strength and masculinity lie in embracing the divine guidance and protection of the Good Shepherd.
The Noble Calling of Catholic Manhood
As humans, we can often be as wayward as sheep, straying from the path of righteousness towards forbidden pastures. But fear not, for we have a Shepherd who guides us with unwavering patience and boundless love. His voice echoes through the winds, beckoning us back to the safety of his flock, even in our moments of wandering and weakness. Through missions, retreats, and even in the midst of our trials, his grace is ever-present, ready to guide us home. How fortunate are we to have such a watchful and caring shepherd for our souls?
Embodied in a Catholic man is the spirit of selfless devotion, following in the footsteps of the Good Shepherd himself. This bond of faith goes beyond mere actions, for a man who truly loves God must also love his fellow man and seek to share his blessings with others. Knowing that heaven’s gates are open for all, the devout man strives to bring more souls into the eternal embrace of God, for the more who enter, the brighter God’s glory will shine. With unwavering determination, he will use every opportunity to guide others into the comforting fold of Christ.
Unleashing the Power of Catholic Manhood
With his unwavering faith as his shield and his heart ablaze with fervent devotion, the Catholic man stands strong in the face of a world that has strayed from God’s path. Armed with the example of Christ and the potent weapon of prayer, he takes on the daunting task of leading lost souls back to the arms of their Creator.
Every day, he kneels in prayer, beseeching the heavens for the conversion of his fellowmen who wander aimlessly in the barren desert of this life, disconnected from God. He strives to deepen his own understanding of the truths of his faith, so that he may be a guiding light for those who seek the answers. And he willingly joins forces with parochial and diocesan societies, using his resources to spread the good news to all corners of the world.
Truly, the Catholic man is a true soldier of Christ, fearlessly marching towards the fulfillment of God’s mission. For in his hands, lies the power to transform hearts and bring about a world that is deeply rooted in the love and teachings of our Lord.
Embrace your calling as a Catholic man and follow in the footsteps of our Lord, who selflessly laid down his life for his sheep. Let us emulate his example of strength, courage, and compassion as we navigate through this often tumultuous world. And may we never forget that it is our duty to spread the good news of the Gospel and bring others into the loving embrace of our faith.
May we always strive to embody true Catholic manhood, guided by the words of our Savior and the wisdom of our Church.
Gospel Jn 10:11-18 Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them. This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.”
We may desire perfect and blissful relationships with no arguments or conflicts, but the reality is that every relationship will face challenges and disagreements. Similarly, in our personal lives, we may have dreams and aspirations that do not align with our current circumstances. However, I believe that when we surrender our wants and desires to God’s plan, we can find peace and fulfillment in knowing that His will for us is greater than anything we could imagine.
I’ve come to realize recently more than ever through a health matter, that what we want may be different from reality, but when we trust in God’s perfect plan, we can find contentment and purpose in our present circumstances. The reality is that all goals and hardships, and relationships, have struggles and require hard work. We might want our children to grow up to be successful and happy, but the reality is that they will face their own challenges and make mistakes too along the way.
We may dream of achieving certain career goals, but the reality is that the journey to success is often filled with obstacles and setbacks. In these situations, it is important to remember that our desires may not align with reality, but we can find peace and contentment by trusting in God’s plan for our lives. Ultimately, what we truly want is to fulfill God’s purpose and will for us, and that is more important and fulfilling than any of our individual desires. God’s will is that we depend on him.
Transforming Our Desires: Learning to Embrace God’s Plan -
In the intricate web of our wants and needs, we often find ourselves at odds with reality. But perhaps, Men, what we yearn for may not be what we truly need. For within the depths of God’s purpose and will lies the key to unlocking true contentment.
Within the intricate dance of marriage and family, our differing desires can lead to unfulfilled expectations. Yet, if we align our hearts with God’s grand design, and meet each other on what we do agree on, we can discover a richness and joy beyond our wildest imagination. So let us surrender our wants to His perfect plan, and meet others where they are, for it is there that we will find ultimate fulfillment.
Unlocking the mysteries of life lies in our deep understanding of the scriptures and surrendering our desires to align with God’s divine blueprint. As we do so, we may be pleasantly surprised to discover that our heart’s deepest longings are not far from the path set out for us by God’s will for us.
Unleashing the Power of His Word -
Exploring James 1:2-18 As we strive to nurture our spiritual growth, let us immerse ourselves in the wisdom of God’s teachings, offering prayers for both ourselves and others. Let us fully embrace the fellowship of our church community, open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, and boldly display our authenticity to those around us.
When we do so, we open the door for God to reveal His plans for us through the people and events He places in our lives. For it is through the trials and hardships we face that our faith is truly tested and fortified.
As true Catholic men, let us rise up with courage and strength, ever aware of the presence of God in our daily lives. In doing so, we will witness the miraculous moments where His hand and face are revealed, providing us with unwavering support as we navigate life’s challenges. Remember, we are never alone in our struggles when we walk with God by our side.
A new episode video of Catholic Man Moment was just released.
In this installment, Frank talks about: Allowing Jesus to Open Our Minds and Hearts. He also shares a short reflection about our recent Men’s Forum experience. (This week is audio only and not video)
Allowing Jesus to Open Our Minds and Hearts
April 14 2024 Third Sunday of Easter
Year B: Luke 24:35-48: Thus it was written that the Christ would suffer and rise form the dead on the third day.
As the sun set on the third day, the words of the holy Scriptures rang true as the prophesied Christ suffered and triumphantly rose from the dead. With divine guidance, their once closed minds were opened as Jesus revealed the true meaning of the Scriptures. This pivotal meeting between the Twelve and their Savior marked the beginning of their sacred mission, inspiring us as Catholic men to follow in their footsteps and spread the Good News to all.
Gospel Lk 24:35-48 The two disciples recounted what had taken place on the way, and how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of bread.
While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. Then he said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” And as he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed, he asked them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of baked fish; he took it and ate it in front of them.
He said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said to them, “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.”
Below are the questions and general responses the men shared dialog from the Forum:
I. What from Fr. Dan’s inspiring remarks resonated with you?
To be servants or Hope and Faith.
How it’s interesting that many Seminarians have become Police Officers.
II. What issues make living out your Catholic Faith a challenge?
Sharing our faith without looking too holy, and thanking Police Officers and First Responders as well as Service members being the example of living out their.
How secular humanism is taking over our culture. Trying to be a Catholic you’re going to be persecuted. You have to do it anyway. Start at home.
III. What would be helpful to you in navigating these challenges?
How to better use smartphone to evangelize family and others.
Most men need more prayer in their lives, from others, and praying for others.
CMCS should consider teaching men how to pray.
To pray through our hearts those who we want to touch.
It’s important for men to open up spiritually with other men.
