Prayer for vocations.

Winged Altarpiece from St. Catherine's Church Lübeck, Germany - Carvings on the wings attributed to Benedikt Dreyer

The panel in view here (bottom half of left-hand wing) depicts the death of St. Alexius. According to legend, Alexius lived a life of penance as a beggar for seventeen years, living unrecognized under the stairs at his parents' house in Rome. In view is a detail of townspeople witnessing his death. The central panel shows the fragment of a Crucifixion.

Dear Lord,

as we begin this new week, we come before you with grateful hearts. Thank you for the gift of another day, for the opportunity to live, to learn, and to serve. We ask for your guidance and wisdom as we face the week ahead. Help us to make decisions that honor you, and to act with kindness and compassion towards all those we encounter. Bless our work and ministry, our studies, and our relationships. Grant us strength and perseverance in the face of challenges, and the ability to find joy in the everyday moments. We pray for those who are in need, for those who are struggling with illness, hardship, or loss. Surround them with your love and comfort, and provide for their needs. Fill our hearts with your peace and help us to be a light in the world. May our actions reflect your love and grace. We offer this prayer in your holy name.

Amen.

Brother Luke with Rosie

October 4: St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order, patron saint of animals and nature, is commemorated on this day, which is also "World Animal Day". According to tradition, the saint understood the language of animals, and one of his most popular depictions in art is when he is preaching to animals.

The idea for Animal Day came from German writer Heinrich Zimmermann, who organized the first such event in Berlin on March 24, 1925. The date of the commemoration was changed to October 4 in 1929. Zimmermann's proposal to make the initiative an international world day was unanimously accepted in 1931, and it has been celebrated worldwide on this day ever since.

"Have you ever thought about how fantastic it is that animals can be our companions? Although we don't speak the same language, we are able to find a common voice. In fact, sometimes these bonds are even deeper than those we form with other people." Maybell Eequay

To mark the occasion, we have selected the best photos of Rosie, the Jack Russell terrier belonging to the Irish Alexian community.

 Rosie, Sheila and Brother Dermot

Dear Lord,

as the leaves turn to vibrant hues and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, we give thanks for the beginning of October. We are grateful for the beauty of this season, for the harvest that is being gathered, and for the promise of cooler days.

We ask for your guidance and blessings as we enter this new month. Help us to appreciate the simple joys of life, the warmth of community, and the beauty that surrounds us. Grant us the wisdom to slow down, to reflect, and to find moments of peace amidst the busyness of life.

We pray for those who are facing challenges, for those who are struggling with illness, loss, or hardship. May they find strength in your love and the support of those around them.

We pray for our families, friends, and communities. May we be a source of comfort, encouragement, and love to each other. Help us to be mindful of your presence in our lives, and to seek your will in all that we do.

We offer this prayer with grateful hearts, trusting in your constant love and guidance.

Amen.

Adventures in the Czech Republic 2. - Inside Lichtnestein Castle

The castle houses a fantastic collection, including beautiful furniture, weapons, porcelain, and hunting trophies. The hunting trophies come from the African travels of members of the Lichtnestein family. The castle was uniquely equipped with hot and cold water bathrooms and underfloor heating as early as 200 years ago. The highlights of the collection include a multi-level chandelier, a wooden coffered ceiling that is unique in the world, and a breathtaking spiral staircase carved from a single piece of wood.

Heavenly Father,

thank you for the weekend, for the gift of rest and renewal. As we enter the new week, please bless our every step. Give us strength for challenges, wisdom for decisions, and patience for difficulties. Help us to live each day for Your glory and to reflect Your love to those around us. 

Amen.