Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me

 Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.

Lead: Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
Response: And you shall renew the face of the earth.

Let us pray. O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

** ***

There are days, no matter the times you read  or listen to something...it does not stick.

I kept listening to  Fr. Eric Gibbins of Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Church in Roblin St. Winnipeg in the 9am online broadcast of today's mass.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJQeW3LiWF8

Now as I attempt to recollect the readings...what stands out is the tops of mountains imagery in the first reading.

Earlier, at breakfast time for Lilli and I, I pointed out to her the formations I can see in the canopy of trees between leaves outside our dinning area window.

It forms a cross.

She sees a star.

When the canoe we were given in Lake Louise was #7, I knew that it was God's way of saying, I see you. Now, see me!

The number 7 has often been associated as God's number.

Today, we are reminded to follow Him, deny ourselves and carry our crosses.

Father Eric says, the cross may vary and differ.

It could be people around who are hard to love and forgive.

It could be having to sacrifice our wants and needs so others may simply live.

It could also be being patient and loving when you want to give up on someone.

Whatever it may be, God in His greatness can help us with the burden or heaviness...like Simon the Cypriot, who help Jesus, God the Father, God the Holy Spirit can help us carry our cross.

Thank You Lord  Jesus.

Thank You...

** *** 

https://youtu.be/U9LRXjUVArM

Our recording for your audio comfort the gospel readings for today.

Here is Kerygma Family Bible Readings and reflection questions and prayers.

https://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2026-08-07

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What is your version of “taking up your cross and following Jesus”?

What do you see as a cross in your life today?

Transfigure and Transform

Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

** ***

The weather today has been cool and a bit overcast with light showers.

The gospel reading for today is of Jesus meeting Moses and Elijah up in the mountain.

Peter , John and his brother James were with Jesus and saw and heard everything.

The dazzling white clothes.

The voice from a cloud saying " This is my beloved Son in whom I am very pleased. Listen to Him."

Oh how I wish it was as clear as it was in that mountain top experience for those who are straying from the right path.

We just had recently experienced a mountain top visit.

It was super awesome.

I didnt like to come down anymore.

But, life is in the valleys and the prairies.

It was a much needed retreat.

It was such a renewal.

We returned home very much refreshed.

** ***

Gospel reflection questions:

Imagine that you were with Jesus when He transfigured. How would that make you feel? 

How is God revealing Himself to you and calling you to be more like Him?

** **

Thank you Lord Jesus for revealing yourself to me in the mountains of Banff.

Thank you Lord Jesus for blessing us with Your favor.

Thank you Lord Jesus for protecting us from all harm and danger.

Thank you for refreshing us with the beauty of  nature...the emerald waters of Lake Louise and the cool view of the mountain tops.

Thank you Lord Jesus for bringing us safely home.

Thank you Lord Jesus for your message today that I can also be transformed by your WORD and your grace...that each day, I will target to receive Your pat in my back by saying, You are very pleased with what I accomplished for You and how I remained a child of the most High bringing His LIGHT to all.

Thank you Lord. Thank you.

Your Faith Has Saved You

 Come Holy Spirit, please fill my heart and my mind with your gifts .Enlighten my mind and guide my actions. Help me to be humble and patient, trusting in God's timing and wisdom. Empower me to serve others and to love as Christ love. Amen.

** ***

So many things to share....so many lessons learned....so many graces and blessings received...so many things to Praise God for.

Please allow me to share a recap of the past days events:

August 1,2026

We attended a funeral mass for a brother in the community. It was a first for us here in Canada. It was a beautiful chance to listen to the eulogies delivered by the deceased immediate family. 

It is a timely reminder to put our lives and hearts in order and think of what we are to leave behind. What our  tomb stones will read and how our love ones will remember us by.

Begin with the end in mind as Covey would list as one of the good habits.

That afternoon  we got some flowering plant seedlings and a cabinet from sis Teena after being fed with yummy Liempo and green mangoes and bagoong.

Super yum!!!

Sunday saw Lilli and I doing the first and 2nd readings at the Holy Cross Parish Church.

Again, that temporary panic before I stood up to read was so  debilitating...but Praise God for the grace He gave me to overcome and show up.

Sunday afternoon saw Marsie, Kaye and us set up for our Garage Sale. A plan that was set last March yet.

Unfortunately we didnt have much patrons and sale. Our young lemonade stand  seller, Kayleigh had  a one and only buyer who bought a  $1 dollar glass for $5...not asking for the change back.

Yipee Yay!!

Monday, Terry Fox day, I was planning to document all that happened in Alberta, but was not able to finish my blog since , Ruel had other plans.

It was such a pleasant surprise!!!

This morning, I just finished meeting with the online Dandelion Book Club for our August movie, 2015 Kendrick Brothers movie: War Room.

Awesome movie!

Great message.

** ***

Today's kerygma Family Reflections:

https://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2026-08-05

How deep is your faith? How can you make it grow deeper?

What can we learn from the faith of the Canaanite woman in today’s Gospel? 

As I turn 57 real soon, I would say, my faith has been tested so many times and I'd say, I barely made the passing greade.

No worries.

It is my God, my Savior who fills the lack.

He get's my mustard seed faith and answers my prayers and sends miracles my way.

He has surrounded me with angels and human ones too.

And if my prayer could only be two words...it would be, Thank Your.

My Lord Jesus is so good!

He is so gracious.

He is so kind.

Blessed be His Most precious name and blood.

May He be praised now and forever.

Mary, the Mother of  my God, please continue to help us draw closer and closer to your Son Jesus Christ.

Jeremiah, John and Alphonsus

 Come Holy Spirit, please fill my heart and my mind with your gifts .Enlighten my mind and guide my actions. Help me to be humble and patient, trusting in God's timing and wisdom. Empower me to serve others and to love as Christ love. Amen.

** **

Today's Kerygma Daily Bible Readings/Reflections:

https://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2026-08-01

The readings for today highlight the obedience and dedication of God's holy warriors to His truth.

Jeremiah.

John the Baptist.

A little over a month ago, Ruel and I have come into close proximity with a young couple.

During the baptism of their child, I noticed something off with one of their guests.

It so happened, the spouse also noticed it.

We were able to discuss it just lately.

I took the chance to warn them of the dangers of being too close for comfort and safety with ladies who have no qualms of entering into dangerous waters or do not recognize limits in  emotional or physical space of  couples in committed relationships.

It may have not been a welcome or solicited advise...but, I took the opportunity to  give a gentle warning just the same.

And to those ladies who do not respect boundaries of married men, please know that I am praying for you and that the Holy Spirit may enlighten you of your folly.

St Monica, we pray for this ladies.

St. Rita of Casia, please pray for these straying ladies.

St.  Mary Magdalene, please intercede for our prayer intentions that ladies who seek to knowingly wreak havoc in marital bonds be brought to the LIGHT of the TRUTH of the gospel of Christ Jesus.

The reflection question for today's readings:

How courageous are you to speak up for the truth at any given time? Ask God for the grace to do so.

Jesus, help me to embrace the truth at all times, even if it is painful. I want to grow in holiness. 

St Alphonsus Liguouri, Founder of the Redemptorists, pray for us.

Today, we celebrate the life of St. Alphonsus Liguori, the founder of the Redemptorists or the Society of Missions. His holy life reminds us of God’s mercy for His people. Saint Alphonsus reminds us to reflect on the cross of Jesus where we find the mystery of salvation, perfectly portrayed in the love of Jesus who died for us and was raised from the dead. Let us gaze on the cross every day and reflect on what it means to us. Let us allow ourselves to be drawn more deeply into the love and mercy of Jesus

Goodbye July! Hello August!

 Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

** ***

It is Friday and the last day of July 2026.

Sun down is getting earlier. Last June, it would set almost 10pm. Now, it is almost 9pm.

Soon, it would be fall.

The fist order of the day yesterday, though how much I preferred to sleep all day, was to bring Mari's 2nd hand car to Holy Cross Church to be blessed by Father Ani.

We were in time for the 745am mass. There was a group of pilgrims departing for  Our Lady of Guadalupe, Wisconsin.

I shared in their quiet excitement!

Today, I plan to write about our MFC Western Region Couple's Congress (WRCC) what I picked up from there and how Ruel and I wish to go forward in our service of our Lord Jesus.

But, for now, let me just focus mostly on the reflection questions from Kergyma Family Daily Bible Reflections:

https://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2026-07-31

What has been your turning point in life—that is, when did you decide to follow Christ?

It was 1976 and a very strong earthquake struck Zamboanga City. The aftershock the following day was equally scary.

In great distress I called on to God to save us.

Zamboanga City was indeed spared from the tidal wave that hit the neighboring towns all around us while we, being at the tip of the peninsula, was spared.

Local folklore claimed that Our Lady of the Pillar, which was just a stone throw from our residence at 26  Valderosa St. was instrumental in interceding and praying for the city to be kept safe.

Mom was panic stricken and as we all huddled at the bottom of the staircase, just by the main doors, I asked her to pray. She was in shock that she told me to take the lead.

Me, being the 7th of 8 children that time, felt so unworthy.

And yet, I obeyed.

It marked my walk with my Lord's Mother first...then in high school, I chose to  read the bible daily.

Are you praying for a miracle? Do you have faith? What preparations have you made to receive your coming miracle?

I declare that our  recent trip to Alberta was a miraculous feat in itself. It was not part of the plan. But, God wanted to meet us in the WRCC  and so, he blessed us with the means which he made use of a good number of earth angels.

The only preparation I can make in receiving coming miracles and or answered prayers is the posture of humility and  TRUST.

No matter what, if God wills it, it is possible.

Who was the first person you shared your conversion story with? What was his/her reaction?

It is the community of Singled for Christ then my readers in the old  yahoo! blogging site.

My prayer as taken from Kerygma:

Lord, please continue to be my strength as you re-direct me each time I fall and lose my way. Mama Mary, pray for us.

Welcome Home!

 Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.

** ***

It was a full 6 days that we were out of the PEG.

We came in last night at almost 9pm.

We departed from St. Albert in Edmonton at almost 3pm of  Tuesday, July 28.

Stopped at Saskatoon at almost 7pm.

Resuming our trip at 8am of Wednesday.

Lunch stop at  Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan at 11am.

Finally, getting into Winnipeg at past 8pm last night.

Late dinner at Sinclair St.

Leaving at 10pm  at the start of a thunder storm.

Kept praying for safety and cover because the rain was strong and the lightning strikes were a plenty.

By the time we  were nearing Sturgeon Road along Centre point Canada highway route 190, I saw a bright green glow as if a half moon green sun lit the night sky.

It turned out to be a lightning strike at a transformer near the house.

Praise God for His powerful protection, the girls and us were spared harm.

What a welcome home!

Responsorial Psalm | Psalm 146:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

R: Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob.

¹ Praise the Lord, O my soul; ² I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live. (R) ³ Put not your trust in princes, in the sons of men, in whom there is no salvation. ⁴ When his spirit departs he returns to his earth; on that day his plans perish.(R) ⁵ Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord, his God, ⁶ who made heaven and earth, the sea and all that is in them. (R)    

Shelter of His Love

 Leader: Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.

Response: Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
Leader: And you shall renew the face of the earth. 

Let us pray:
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord. Amen

** ***

It is such a beautiful morning.

The crows are patiently waiting for Lilli to come out and feed them.

I am glad I was able to prepare food for the day with that extra joy.

There are so many things in my to do list for today. I call and ask for the power in the Risen Christ in Resurrection to be my strength and guide.

Praise You Lord Jesus Christ.

Several days I have failed miserably to write my reflections for the daily gospel readings.

Praise God, I am still able to access Kerygma Daily Family Reading!!!!

Offering prayers for it's head and founder, Bo Sanchez, who just celebrated a birthday last July 7 and his beautiful wife Marowe, July 3.

They have indeed made use of their gifts,talents and resources that they are reaping the fruits of their labor in spreading the gospel of Christ far and wide.

May I remain faithful in this simple blogging I am doing.

** ***

Today's Kerygma Daily Bible Reading with reflection guide questions and short prayers:

https://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2026-07-23

List the personal moments when God’s love became real to you. 

Lord, You bless me every day. Open my eyes to the great things You are doing. Don’t let me miss any of them.

What gifts and talents has God given you? How do you use these to serve Him and the people He sends you to serve?

Each day, preferably at night, take the time to ask yourself this question: How did I see God’s presence today?

May my eyes and ears be always alert to Your presence in my daily life, O Lord.

** ***

My thoughts...

Last Saturday, I took the challenge to be the host of a baptism reception. Public speaking is something of a mountain of a challenge for me.

By God's extra grace, I was able to achieve most of the goals of the program.

The most special thing  for me was two of the guests' children, a boy and a girl of different families, obliged to join in the fun and games...and the young girl of 7 kept coming close to me and asking for more games to be conducted.

Most of the guests were not wanting to participate...but somehow these young ones were in the party and fun vibe.

I am happy that I was able to connect with them enough for them to act.

The gift and skill of influence to do good and to seek, love and serve Our Lord and Creator and Savior Jesus Christ.

May God be praised! Alleluia!

Thank you for loving me enough God to heal me of my fears and traumas.

Continue to cover me with Your Shelter of Love.