Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as we live life-to-the-full in the torrent of Pentecost graces! What a grand celebration of gratitude near and far for our Apostolate Chaplain, Fr Joseph Johnson, as he commemorated his 25th Jubilee of priesthood on Pentecost Sunday (Ordination date: 31 May). Let us keep him ever-close in mind and heart as he surely and steadily leads us onward in this Work.
As Seven Sisters, we find ourselves in the sweet spot: at the close of our discernment in May moving into our profession of God’s Will for us in June (on or near the Feast of the Sacred Heart – this year June 16). Please inform your Anchoress TODAY (if you haven’t already) whether you will remain with your group another year or depart from its schedule and commitment. We hope to keep the Holy Hours seamless, as we have guaranteed them, for each priest and bishop. Keeping your Anchoress updated is vital, especially if adjustments are needed.
Whether continuing or leave-taking – eternal gratitude! Every sacrifice, every prayer bears eternal worth, for love is the lasting thing. New beginnings and renewals alike hold great graces – each entering the Will and vivacity of the infinite love of Christ through His Sacred Heart for you!
My return to the Catholic Faith (03/20/99) is intimately linked to the Sacred Heart. The first holy image purchased for our home was of the Sacred Heart. It hung on the bedroom wall. Early morning moments were oft spent gazing upon Jesus and His bulging Heart wrapped in thorns. Grace building upon grace, deep assurance developed – then deeper still – of the truth and love of God through His Church, specifically through the Eucharist. “In the Sacred Heart every treasure of wisdom and knowledge is hidden. In that Divine Heart beats God’s infinite love for everyone, for each one of us individually” (St John Paul II).All told, everyone is intimately linked to the Sacred Heart for the defining assurance of the full truth of the Eucharist as source and summit of our life, our Faith. It is wholly fitting that the Apostolate universally renews its commitment in this month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Its Eucharistic and pastoral themes are the firm influence. Many Seven Sisters (myself included) use the Novena to the Sacred Heart (pg. 10 in Guidelines Booklet) every offered Holy Hour. St Padre Pio prayed it for all asking him for prayer, and witnessed its power.
According to the Directory on Popular Piety (written for bishops and collaborators as a pastoral guide linking liturgy and piety), devotion to the Sacred Heart has been a vital part of Christian devotion since the beginning. When viewed, “in the light of the Scriptures, the term ‘Sacred Heart of Jesus’ denotes the entire mystery of Christ, the totality of his being, and his person considered in its most intimate essential: Son of God, uncreated wisdom; infinite charity, principal of the salvation and sanctification of mankind. The ‘Sacred Heart’ is Christ, the Word Incarnate, Saviour, intrinsically containing, in the Spirit, an infinite divine-human love for the Father and for his brothers.” Every word dovetails into the heart of our Apostolate!
“There is in the Sacred Heart the symbol and express image of the infinite love of Jesus Christ which moves us to love in return”(Pope Leo XIII). Recommitting our work of prayer in this month of special meaning and special graces fortifies our mission. His love indeed compels us! As we take hold of the truth of the immense personal love that the Sacred Heart of Jesus bears for us and remain open to learn and pray forth the immense personal love Jesus bears for the priest/bishop for whom one prays… we can do nothing short of persevering in prayer – and rejoicing. “Love overcomes, love delights, those who love the Sacred Heart rejoice” (St Bernadette Soubirous). It (super)naturally flows that we beseech sanctity and nothing less for the recipients of our prayers. “I must become a great saint – my Jesus wants it” (St Bernadette Soubirous).
As the Apostolate grows in height (number) and width (globally), there presents a call for a challenge to grow in depth. Many Seven Sisters have given testimony to that very thing: to the joy of increased focus and sensitivity in prayer, and a greater liberty and peace in relying on the Holy Spirit for the development of prayer during the Hour. Others share they are motivated to additionally offer sacrifices for the priest during the day they are committed to the Holy Hour. Still others sense a call to pray an additional Hour in another Apostolate group. All these movements seem the marvelous fruit of obedience and fidelity to these prayer endeavors compelled by the Love of Christ. “O Sacred Heart of Jesus, fountain of eternal life,” says St Gertrude, “Your Heart is a glowing furnace of Love.”
Among customs linked to the Sacred Heart is a traditional enthronement (consecration) of one’s home (and heart) to Jesus. Jesus promised St Margaret Mary Alacoque, who received extensive revelations regarding the Sacred Heart, “I will bless the homes where an image of My Heart shall be exposed and honored.” In keeping with the simplicity of the Apostolate work coupled with the call of growing deeper in the love that is asked of us through it, there is a strong encouragement for Seven Sisters to prayerfully consider placing an image of the Sacred Heart in a place of honor in their home. Various types of enthronements have developed. Here are three: (1) Fr James Kubicki: A Heart on Fire: Rediscovering Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Includes history, its relevance and a prayer service. (2)Cardinal Raymond Burke presents clear instructions on preparing spiritually for enthronement along with a liturgical celebration in: The Enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.(3) In Consoling the Heart of Jesus, Fr Michael Gaitley offers a moving retreat designed at uniting one’s heart closer to that of Jesus, culminating in a consecration to the Sacred Heart. Whatever method one might use, the emphasis is on the spiritual preparation. In so doing, many are moved to link the inseparable Twin Hearts, honor the dual images and consecrate their home to both Jesus and Mary. As Seven Sisters we are mystically linked to the Sacred Heart. An invitation was opened to us in the very roots of the Apostolate and is reinvigorated annually as we sincerely recommit to our prayerful duties. Jesus extended an invitation to St Gertrude that is fully alive for us too: “Let the soul who is desirous of advancing in perfection hasten to my Sacred Heart.” Together we respond!
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.… eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day….“One Ave Maria makes hell tremble”(St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate. THANK YOU! The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
Janette (Howe) +JMJ+
651-283-0929 (c); 43 Nord Circle Rd, St Paul, MN 55127
Heartfelt welcome: NEW groups that registered in MAY to cover more priests in daily prayer: Additional groups in Cameroon (Africa),India,Lisbon (Portugal) and these 33USA states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. We pray daily for priests and bishops in over 3300 groups serving 6 continents, 27 countries, all 50 USA states, most Canadian Provinces. Let no shepherd be left behind!
RECENT … and AHEAD on the calendar:
> May-October: Champion Shrine’s Shepherd Project. A season of prayer for each and every Bishop in the USA. One daily prayer provided. To sign up: https://championshrine.org/shepherd-project/
> Gratitude to Amy for organizing the 6 May Time of Reflection and Renewal in Bruce, WI.
> Gratitude to Deb for organizing the 20 May KC Ladies Auxiliary Minnesota State Convention where Doreen (Diocesan Coordinator) and Janette shared Past, Present and Future of the Apostolate.
> Sat, 03 June: Day of Reflection, Prayer, Recommitment. St Mary’s Cathedral, St Cloud, MN. Theme: Heart…to Heart…to Heart (Talks: Fr Aaron Nett//Michelle Steele)sevensistersstcloud@gmail.com
> Sat, 10 June:Eucharistic Congress. Mankato Civic Center (Minnesota). Bishop Robert Barron. Talks, Adoration, Confessions, Eucharistic Procession, concluding Mass with all Winona-Rochester priests concelebrating. We have a booth and banner for the Procession! Seven Sisters: claim a free gift at the booth. Join us in worship and witness of Jesus! Consider a donation to Apostolate for Brochures/Holy cards that we maypass without cost. This Is My Body – Eucharistic Congress 2023
> Sun, 25 June: Day of Reflection. Cathedral of Notre Dame (South Bend, IN). 9:30-4 pm: Mass, Brunch, Reflection (Nicole Bobay), Cathedral/grounds tour. Tammie: sevensistersFWSB@gmail.com
> Sat, 8 July: 2nd Annual Seven Sisters Day of Fellowship, Renewal and Reflection. St Michael’s Westside Chapel, Olympia, WA, w/Bishop Etienne, Seattle Diocesan Coordinator, Holly, and Janette. 9-3:30. To register: https://form.jotform.com/231278269003151 No admission fee, free will offering.
*NEW- to serve YOU! Want to plan a Seven Sisters information session, Morning of Reflection, Day of Retreat, Overnight Retreat? Or just need ideas to getting the word out about the Apostolate? A group of Seven Sisters with creative and organizational gifts will help you get started, keep you going and pray all along the way like sisters do! No idea too small or too big! SevenSistersEvents4U@gmail.com
MATTERS of the HEART:
“Thank you for the beautiful opportunity to pray for our Priests. It is my greatest joy!” (Linda, No Dakota)
“As a Christian who wants to assist the church in my own little way, I try to support my Priests in the discharge of their duties and the best way to do so is by praying for them.” (Anyi, Cameroon, Africa)
“I am in love with Christ’s Church and our beautiful shepherds. I find great comfort reading the Communiques, knowing I am connected in heart to so many others in prayer and love.” (Sue, Minnesota)
“I read an article in the East Tennessee Catholic about the apostolate. I have always prayed for my priest but this apostolate is something that can continue even after I am gone.” (Rose, Tennessee)
“I find the Apostolate to be an opportunity to join with members of my faith family in praying specifically for our priests, which both pleases God and strengthens us as a faith family.” (Kathleen, Florida)
“I felt a calling to support our Catholic Church in a positive way during these times of turmoil. I am completely committed to this wonderful movement. I am so grateful for it.” (Marjorie, Indiana)
ELIJAH’s HELPERS: By prayerful desire and directive of our Apostolate Chaplain, Fr Johnson, a pilot group of Seven Sisters intercessors dedicated to offering Holy Hours for priests in various forms of crisis (no names known) within the Archdiocese of St Paul-Mpls, began in June 2021. In June 2022, this fruit of the Apostolate opened to form more groups in more Dioceses. All inquiries to Nancy at ElijahsHelpers@gmail.com or cell: 612-756-1107. It is growing! Please consider this!
APPRECIATED and LOVEDquilt project: A double cloaking for RETIRED PRIESTS: Seven Sisters prayer and a quilt! The priests love both! To learn more regarding a single quilt for a retired priest or on how to get this started in your Diocese, contact QuiltsBySevenSisters@gmail.com
FASTING BROTHERS is growing: Groups of men offering various forms of fasting to augment the prayer efforts of a Seven Sisters group. Each man prayerfully discerns the type of fasting he will offer and commits to fast a designated day of the week (excepting Sunday/Solemnities). Our Chaplain, strongly urges formation of these groups. There is a form on the Website to register.
LAMP-BEARERS: In January 2020, Lamp-Bearers, so-named for their action of continually ‘filling of their lamps with the oil of prayer’, was launched to pray for the Apostolate at large. Each intercessor prays a minimum of once per week, many are offering prayers every day. Intentions gleaned from topics and calendar points in the monthly Communique and also sent to members on the second or third Sunday of the month. Additional intercessors welcomed. Inquire through Website.
SEVEN SISTERS Guideline BOOKLETS: Available as free download from Web site. Hard copies passed on for printing cost of $2 each + P/H. Order thru Web email with amount desired/address
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold BROCHURE: Effectively used in parish pamphlet stands (ask pastor’s approval prior), Adoration Chapels, Retreat Centers, Bags/Packets for Women’s Conferences/Retreats, Women’s clubs, Serra clubs – or simply handing out! Available on Web as free download. Recommend 80# silk for best printing results. May also order through Web site. Indicate address/quantity. 25 for $10 + P/H. Available in ENGLISH and SPANISH.
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold LITANY for PRIESTS: Beautifully printed on 100# silk (a bit thicker than brochures). Original artwork (inspired by the Diary of St Faustina) by Seven Sister in Minnesota, Litany by Richard Cardinal Cushing. 25 for $10 + P/H.
REMEMBRANCE of those SEVEN SISTERS who have PASSED: We want to remember those Seven Sisters in name and in prayer, who have gone before us to their eternal rest. Visit the Web site. Click on ABOUT folder and scroll to bottom, choose: IN REMEMBRANCE. Follow prompts… OR you may submit info via the Website email. Please check site monthly for additions and to pray!
PRIEST who has PASSED to ETERNAL REST: If the priest for whom you pray has entered eternal life, the group may be led to continue to pray for a length of time for the soul of that priest. Perhaps a novena of Holy Hours or the offering of holy Mass(es) for the priest. You will know. Some groups have/are offering Holy Hours for an entire year for their beloved deceased priest. Groups may be started following the death of a priest that did not have a group prior. This is commendable and welcomed. Please register these special groups through the Web site.
SPANISH translation of Communique: Posted (and archived) on the Website. If it is easier to receive through an email account, please let me know. Allow a few days for translation. Commitment Prayer/Guidelines Booklet in Spanish (on the Website – free download)
ANCHORESSES: Please pass this Communiqué on to group members
Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as we share the Alleluia-laden course of Eastertide!St Athanasius termed all 50 days as one“great Sunday”!Alleluia is indeed our song!
Heaven is near – not merely so evidently in Eastertide, but always.St Catherine of Siena mused,“All the way to heaven is heaven, because Jesus said, “I am the way.”Our Lord alsoallocates heaven’s influence through our Guardian angels that light, guard, rule and guide.The saints (foremost, Our Lady) are for us family, friends and fetching models of life to the full.We are near them in a unique way.Scripture intimates we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses (Heb 12:1).Our Faith’s history affirms that the saints are not as spectators encircling us in a sport’s arena, but rather interfacing with our lives. As our truest brothers and sisters whose resolute desire is our sanctity, they fittingly rouse in us longings to be like them and to live in the Light of Christ with them.The saints carry holy expectancy for our heavenly arrivals.They are not idle in waiting, but intentionally dynamic to spur each of us Homeward through the moments of our lives.Seven Sisters share that eagerness of heaven for the souls of the priests/bishops for whom we pray!
From the earliest days of the Church, the faithful have sought the companionship in prayer of those holy ones who have gone before us to their reward.Pursuing the intercession of a saint does not suggest that one cannot directly approach God in prayer.Rather, it is asking a friend to pray alongside. In this case our friend is in heaven and can intercede with and for us without ceasing.
The Apostolate is consistently bolstered in prayer through our own divinely-assigned tri-patrons:Madonnaofthe Grapes (overseer of the Eucharistic life), St John Vianney (patron of all priests) and St Margaret Clitherow (martyr and defender of the Eucharistic life and priests).This trifecta deeply loves us and the recipients of our prayers.A communionof saints in sweet actuality! Other saints with fitting patronages related to the lives of priests/bishops may also be worthy of our solicitation as Seven Sisters.While our patrons are always in the ready to help priests and help us pray for them, consider these of that“great cloud” to assist in our Holy Hours:
+ St Charles Borromeo, an Italian Cardinal and Bishop and prominent figure in the counter-reformation,is patron of bishops, cardinals, spiritual leaders, seminarians. (+1584)
+ St Leopold Mandić, a humble Capuchin Friar, is patron of Confessions.He sometimes spent up to 13-15 hours in the confessional.Several Bishops sought his spiritual guidance. (+1942)
+St John Nepomucene is patron of the Confessional Seal. Hewas the Confessor to the Queen of Prague. King Wenceslaus IV pointedly asked Father to divulge his wife’s confession.Upon refusal to disclose, he was imprisoned, tortured and finally, by order of the king, heaved into the river.The waters are said to have shown a strange brightness where he drowned.(+1393)
+ St Joseph is patron of the Universal Church, Workers and a Happy Death, all these, important to a priest/bishop.St Thomas Aquinas had this to say:“Some Saints are privileged to extend to us their patronage with particular efficacy in certain needs, but not in others; but our holy patron St. Joseph has the power to assist us in all cases, in every necessity, in every undertaking.”
+ St John Chrysostom, an Eastern Church Father and Archbishop of Constantinople, is patron of Orators. This fearless reformer gifted in preaching was dubbed “golden mouthed”.He especially loved to preach St Paul’s writings, calling him the “trumpet of heaven.” (+407)
+ St Therese of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun and Doctor of the Church, is patroness of Sacristans. How fitting to her deep love of sacristy work, holy Mass and priests. She composed a splendid poem, “The Sacristans of Carmel”, that is worth the search to find! (+1897)
+St Manuel Gonzalez Garcia, a Spanish Bishop called the “Bishop of the Abandoned Tabernacle”, challenged the faithful to realize how much Christ is left alone in the tabernacle of hearts and lives.He tirelessly encouraged Eucharistic visits. He is a patron ofEucharistic revival, and loved his priesthood, “If I would be born a thousand times, a thousand times I would be a priest.” (+1940) The journey of holiness asks a continual strength. God beckons both His heavenly and earthly family into that marvelous mission.Aside from the aforementioned saints, we might consider calling upon the Baptism and Confirmation namesake saints of the priest/bishop for whom we pray.Consider the patron of the parish, monastery, city, diocese, country, continent where the priest/bishop serves.Does Father have a particular kinship to certain saints? Is Father needing special intercession for a patron related to his particular service to the Church (parish, monastic life, missionary work, seminary studies, spiritual direction, canon law, hospital chaplaincy, school educator, media work, retired from an assigned duty), for health concerns or the like?Help is all around!
As Seven Sisters, how valuable is our holy habit to call upon Mary, queen of heaven and earth, in every Holy Hour.She listens and guides, and especially in this month of May helps us discern God’s call regarding our continuance with the Apostolate prayer for another year.
In a time gravely crippled by despair and mediocrity, the billows of our prayers join those of the “great cloud of witnesses” in the sure hope of fueling and strengthening magnanimous, saintly priests and bishops to lead us.“Fly not to God’s enemies… but to His friends, the martyrs, the saints, and those who were pleasing to Him, and who have great power (in God)” (St John Chrysostom).
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.… eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day….“One Ave Maria makes hell tremble”(St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate.THANK YOU!The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
Heartfelt welcome: NEW groups that registered in APRIL to cover more priests in daily prayer:Additional groups in Cameroon (Africa),Kenya (Africa), Lisbon (Portugal), Rome (Italy) and these USA states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.We pray daily for priests and bishops in over 3200 groups serving 6 continents, 27 countries, all 50 USA states, most Canadian Provinces. Let no shepherd be left behind!
NEW- to serve YOU! Want to plan a Seven Sisters information session, Morning of Reflection, Day of Retreat, Overnight Retreat? Or just need ideas to getting the word out about the Apostolate? A group of Seven Sisters with creative and organizational gifts will help you get started, keep you going and pray all along the way like sisters do!No idea too small or too big! Contact:SevenSistersEvents4U@gmail.com
RECENT … and AHEAD on the calendar:
Sat, 6 May: St Mary’s in Bruce, WI.Time of Reflection and Renewal.Janette will offer a Reflection:The Privilege of Praying for Priests. Bring a friend! Contact Amy:sevensisterssuperior@gmail.com.
Sat, 20 May: KC Ladies Auxiliary Minnesota State Convention. Bloomington, MN.Janette will share Past, Present, Future: God’s Will and Way. Inquiries Deb:mnknightsconvention@gmail.com
Sat, 03 June: Day of Reflection, Prayer, Recommitment. St Mary’s Cathedral, St Cloud, MN. Theme: Heart…to Heart…to Heart (Talks: Fr Aaron Nett//Michelle Steele)sevensistersstcloud@gmail.com
Sat, 10 June:Eucharistic Congress.Mankato Civic Center (Minnesota).Bishop Robert Barron. Talks, Adoration, Confessions, Eucharistic Procession, concluding Mass with all Winona-Rochester priests concelebrating. We have a booth and a banner for the Procession!Seven Sisters: claim a free gift at booth. Join us in worship and witness of Jesus!This Is My Body – Eucharistic Congress 2023
“When I think about the gift Jesus gives His bride in the heart of each priest, it just pierces my heart with gratitude and joy and pain. Our sacramental life, our reception of our Eucharistic Lord is dependent on their fiat. I have to respond and what a beautiful gift the Seven Sisters Apostolate is.” (Lindsey, Indiana)
“Our priest informed us of the Seven Sisters. My group of seven is the third group formed. I visited York, England, and learned about St Margaret Clitherow.I feel she guided me to join.” (Marilou, New York)
“I have been a Spiritual Director for 17 years. Today a Directee told me about the Seven Sisters Apostolate and my spirit soared at the idea of praying this committed hour for our priest. This is our beginning to lift up our parish priest to the protection of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” (Joan, Louisiana)
“Priests can fall prey to spiritual attacks and I wanted to offer some protection.” (Julie, Virginia)
“I am a lay Carmelite, one of our charisms is contemplative prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. This Apostolate is the perfect opportunity to share this gift for the good of our Shepherds.” (Janine, Ohio)
“Strengthening our priests strengthens our parish, diocese, and more! A consistent wave of prayer brings the Lord’s graces and blessings to our priests. I want to be part of strengthening our priests in prayer, and supporting the other six sisters praying.” (Renee, Virginia)
“I am a practicing Catholic, single mother of three kids, doing a small business. Sr Theresia Itor introduced this group to me. l like praying for people especially for priests.” (Judith, Kumba, Cameroon)
ELIJAH’s HELPERS: By prayerful desire and directive of our Apostolate Chaplain, Fr Johnson, a pilot group of Seven Sisters intercessors dedicated to offering Holy Hours for priests in various forms of crisis (no names known) within the Archdiocese of St Paul-Mpls, began in June 2021.In June 2022, this fruit of the Apostolate opened to form more groups in more Dioceses.All inquiries to Nancy at ElijahsHelpers@gmail.comor cell: 612-756-1107.It is growing! Please consider this!
APPRECIATED and LOVEDquilt project:A double cloaking for RETIRED PRIESTS: Seven Sisters prayer and a quilt! The priests love both!To learn more regarding a single quilt for a retired priest or on how to get this started in your Diocese, contact QuiltsBySevenSisters@gmail.com
FASTING BROTHERS is growing: Groups of men offering various forms of fasting to augment the prayer efforts of a Seven Sisters group.Each man prayerfully discerns the type of fasting he will offer and commits to fast a designated day of the week (excepting Sunday/Solemnities). Our Chaplain, strongly urges formation of these groups. There is a form on the Website to register.
LAMP-BEARERS: In January 2020, Lamp-Bearers, so-named for their action of continually ‘filling of their lamps with the oil of prayer’, was launched to pray for the Apostolate at large.Each intercessor prays a minimum of once per week, many are offering prayers every day.Intentions gleaned from topics and calendar points in the monthly Communique and also sent to members on the second or third Sunday of the month.Additional intercessors welcomed.Inquire through Website.
SEVEN SISTERS Guideline BOOKLETS: Available as free download from Web site. Hard copies passed on for printing cost of $2 each + P/H. Order thru Web email with amount desired/address
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold BROCHURE: Effectively used in parish pamphlet stands (ask pastor’s approval prior), Adoration Chapels, Retreat Centers, Bags/Packets for Women’s Conferences/Retreats, Women’s clubs, Serra clubs – or simply handing out!Available on Web as free download.Recommend 80# silk for best printing results.May also order through Web site.Indicate address/quantity.25 for $10 + P/H.Available in ENGLISH and SPANISH.
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold LITANY for PRIESTS: Beautifully printed on 100# silk (a bit thicker than brochures).Original artwork (inspired by the Diary of St Faustina) by Seven Sister in Minnesota, Litany by Richard Cardinal Cushing.25 for $10 + P/H.
REMEMBRANCE of those SEVEN SISTERS who have PASSED: We want to remember those Seven Sisters in name and in prayer, who have gone before us to their eternal rest. Visit the Web site. Click on ABOUT folder and scroll to bottom, choose: IN REMEMBRANCE. Follow prompts… OR you may submit info via the Website email. Please check site monthly for additions and to pray!
PRIEST who has PASSED to ETERNAL REST: If the priest for whom you pray has entered eternal life, the group may be led to continue to pray for a length of time for the soul of that priest. Perhaps a novena of Holy Hours or the offering of holy Mass(es) for the priest. You will know.Some groups have/are offering Holy Hours for an entire year for their beloved deceased priest. Groups may be started following the death of a priest that did not have a group prior.This is commendable and welcomed.Please register these special groups through the Web site.
SPANISH translation of Communique: Posted (and archived) on the Website. If it is easier to receive through an email account, please let me know. Allow a few days for translation. Commitment Prayer/Guidelines Booklet in Spanish (on the Website – free download)
ANCHORESSES: Please pass this Communiqué on to group members
Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as we move to encompass our holiest days, then embrace Eastertide, all to encourage the world to rally with us in our love of Christ! Alleluia!
An invitation to “watch with Me for an Hour” was made in the Garden. The first Good Friday held another Holy Hour invitation. Fr Mateo Crawley-Boevey explains, “The chants of the heavenly Jerusalem are interrupted. The entire court of Heaven waits in order to receive the last throb of the Heart of the Man-God, the victim of Golgotha. Fervent loving souls, we are truly at thesummit of Calvary: it is the Holy Hour!” Drowsiness prevailed over any watching at Gethsemane, despite Jesus’ repeated attempts to arouse. Interestingly, the Synoptic Gospels (Matt 27:55, Mark 15:40, Luke 23:49) echo this same verb of Gethsemane at the place of Golgotha. All describe the women “watching”at a distance. St John places Mother Mary, and the women accompanying, near the Cross (Jn 19:25). Could it be that in the darkness over the whole land (from the sixth to the ninth hour or 12 to 3 pm) that the women, stirred by intensified love, were drawn from “watching at a distance” to be near their suffering Lord? Here, in keeping vigil, not slumber, they attended our Lord in a firm witness of boldness, deep affection and fidelity.
What a marvelous model and encouragement for Seven Sisters intercessors! What a powerful link to Calvary itself as we consider and follow these earliest companions of Christ that show us the full Way of love where they joined the newly-ordained virginal priest of Jesus Christ, St John. Truly, even now, Our Lady accompanies us as a first disciple, as well as Mother, to every Holy Hour. St Peter Julian Eymard, dubbed the Apostle of the Eucharist, believed that Eucharistic Adoration is the most necessary mission to the Church and believed that the Blessed Virgin desires to create a “court of devoted adorers.” (Seven Sisters?!!)Her company, and those of our saintly sisters, nurtures loyalty to our commitment and instills courage even in the face of suffering. “We are not called to great penances,” reminds Ven Fulton Sheen, “but the Holy Hour is a sacrifice in union with Christ.”Catholic author, Caryll Houselander, adds this fortifying thought to what compels our actions of prayer offerings. “A sacrifice is not, as so many people imagine, a mortification; it is not something that is meritorious according to its degree of unpleasantness. On the contrary, in real sacrifice, there is joy which surpasses all other joys, it is the crescendo and culmination of love.”
While a whole spectrum of offerings for the well-being and sanctity of priests lay before the Lord, it is the queen of all devotions, the Holy Hour, that He has assigned to our Apostolate. It is a gift brimming with blessings: “A Holy Hour brings Heaven’s choicest blessings on those who are faithful to their Hour” (Pope St Paul VI), and brimming with graces: “There is no doubt that a flood of graces will descend upon your family and the world if more souls would become docile pupils of adoration” (Pope St John XXIII).
While the Mass is arguably the highest form of prayer, the form of prayer ascribed to us in this mission is Holy Hours. We have been rewarded over and again as we collectively stay close to the inspiration, submitting to God’s Will and Way. His thoughts and ways are higher. When access to a Church or Chapel is limited, some Seven Sisters keep fidelity to their Hour by arriving early for a Mass on ‘their day” and beginning the Holy Hour for their priest/bishop. They then attend the Mass, then pray the balance of the Holy Hourafter the Mass. In his book, Those Mysterious Priests, Archbishop Sheen states that a Mass never interrupts a Holy Hour.
Why are we called to offer Holy Hours? While the answer did not accompany the inspiration, it seems to continually unfold by the witness of our obedience and fidelity to it. Our patron, St John Vianney, describes you: “When Our Lord sees pure souls coming to visit Him in the Blessed Sacrament, He smiles on them. They come with the simplicity that pleases Him so much. … “Our Lord is hidden there in the Blessed Sacrament, waiting for us to come and visit Him, and make our requests to Him.”
Connecting our Hour to the Good Friday Hour at Calvary can serve to deepen our fervor as we remain faithful to watch with Our Lord at His personal invitation. Is this not the heart of our Apostolate – to answer His call? “Our Lord hears our prayers anywhere, but He has revealed to His servants that those who visit Him in the Eucharist will obtain a more abundant measure of grace” (St Alphonsus Ligouri). In this abundance of grace, our mission of sanctity for each bishop and priest, is affirmed by St John Paul II: “We contribute to the radical transformation of the world during our Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration.” If a priest is a saint, his people will be holy!
Our prayerful fidelity to Eucharistic Adoration begets benefit to our own souls. “Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is the best time you will spend on earth! Eucharistic Adoration will make your soul everlastingly more glorious and beautiful in Heaven” (St. Teresa of Calcutta). “During our Holy Hour we grow more and more into His likeness” (Ven Fulton J. Sheen). “A Holy Hour in front of the Blessed Sacrament is worth more than a thousand years of human glory” (St. Padre Pio). Let our lives bear sure witness to this as we live close to Jesus, not content to watch at a distance!
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.… eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day….“One Ave Maria makes hell tremble”(St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate. THANK YOU! The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
Heartfelt welcome: NEW groups that registered in March to cover more priests in daily prayer: Additional groups in Cameroon (Africa),Portugal, and these USA states: Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, and Virginia. We pray daily for priests and bishops in over 3000 groups serving 6 continents, 27 countries, all 50 USA states, most Canadian Provinces. Let no shepherd be left behind!
RECENT … and AHEAD on the calendar:
> Gratitude to Nadine and Kim for organizing the March 10-12 Retreat in Prior Lake, MN. Embracing the Gift of the Eucharist. Mary and the Eucharist: Inseparable.
> Sat, 6 May: St Mary’s in Bruce, WI. Time of Reflection and Renewal. Janette will offer a Reflection: The Privilege of Praying for Priests. Contact Amy: sevensisterssuperior@gmail.com.
> Sat, 20 May: KC Ladies Auxiliary Minnesota State Convention. Bloomington, MN. Janette will share Past, Present, Future: God’s Will and Way. Inquiries Deb: mnknightsconvention@gmail.com
> Sun, 25 June: Day of Reflection. Cathedral of Notre Dame (South Bend, IN). 9:30-4 pm: Mass, Brunch, Reflection (Nicole Bobay), Cathedral/grounds tour. Tammie: sevensistersFWSB@gmail.com
Giving glory to God: Especially seeking testimonies from Priests, Bishops, Fasting Brothers regarding the Apostolate. Send email thru Web or Janette Howe, 43 Nord Circle Rd, St Paul, MN 55127
MATTERS of the HEART:
“The Apostolate has drawn so many women into Chapels on their knees praying for our priests at a time when there are so many attacks on all fronts, both inside and outside the Church. May your Apostolate grow until every priest has Seven Sisters!!” (Meredith, Texas)
“This apostolate has been an awesome personal journey. The first time I knelt in front of the monstrance to pray for my priest I just bawled! It was joyous bawling. I was just so overwhelmed by being alone in a small quiet room – just Jesus and me – and praying for an hour for someone else. I had never done anything like that before. Now I can’t wait to get to go be with Jesus!” (Carol, Iowa)
“This is a vital ministry for the life of the Church. I am the mother of a newly ordained priest, and well aware of the need for prayers for these men who have sacrificed all for Christ and His Church. May Our Blessed Mother continue to guide and nurture your ministry.” (Elizabeth, Wisconsin)
“All is good and we are growing in our faith and building a beautiful prayer life through this extraordinary and beautiful Apostolate!” (Sylvia, Arizona)
“I love praying at the Blessed Sacrament. I pray for our priest for his divine assignments to lead Christians to God to be accomplished.” (Abwe, Kumba, Africa)
“The Holy Spirit ignited a fire in my heart to respond to an article in our Archdiocesan paper. Our priests can change our world. We love them and our prayers are much needed.” (Debra, Louisiana)
“The greatest blessing is to be privileged to pray for our priests and make a difference in their physical and spiritual lives. Adjutorium nostrum in nomine Domini.” (Bernadette, South Carolina)
“I have been praying for priests daily for over 20 years. I’ve been very pleased by the reaction from the women asked to join Seven Sisters. It is a serious commitment, but they’re not intimidated in the least. I think that must be the power of the Holy Spirit in His effort to renew the face of the earth!” (Eileen, Indiana)
“Thank you for starting this wonderful apostolate! My weekly Holy Hour has been a virtual School of Prayer for me. I’m finally learning to listen to the Lord as well as speak to Him.” (Ruth, Kentucky)
ELIJAH’s HELPERS: By prayerful desire and directive of our Apostolate Chaplain, Fr Johnson, a pilot group of Seven Sisters intercessors dedicated to offering Holy Hours for priests in various forms of crisis (no names known) within the Archdiocese of St Paul-Mpls, began in June 2021. In June 2022, this fruit of the Apostolate opened to form more groups in more Dioceses. All inquiries to Nancy at ElijahsHelpers@gmail.com or cell: 612-756-1107. It is growing! Please consider this!
APPRECIATED and LOVEDquilt project: A double cloaking for RETIRED PRIESTS: Seven Sisters prayer and a quilt! The priests love both! To learn more regarding a single quilt for a retired priest or on how to get this started in your Diocese, contact QuiltsBySevenSisters@gmail.com
FASTING BROTHERS is growing: Groups of men offering various forms of fasting to augment the prayer efforts of a Seven Sisters group. Each man prayerfully discerns the type of fasting he will offer and commits to fast a designated day of the week (excepting Sunday/Solemnities). Our Chaplain, strongly urges formation of these groups. There is a form on the Website to register.
LAMP-BEARERS: In January 2020, Lamp-Bearers, so-named for their action of continually ‘filling of their lamps with the oil of prayer’, was launched to pray for the Apostolate at large. Each intercessor prays a minimum of once per week, many are offering prayers every day. Intentions gleaned from topics and calendar points in the monthly Communique and also sent to members on the second or third Sunday of the month. Additional intercessors welcomed. Inquire through Website.
SEVEN SISTERS Guideline BOOKLETS: Available as free download from Web site. Hard copies passed on for printing cost of $2 each + P/H. Order thru Web email with amount desired/address
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold BROCHURE: Effectively used in parish pamphlet stands (ask pastor’s approval prior), Adoration Chapels, Retreat Centers, Bags/Packets for Women’s Conferences/Retreats, Women’s clubs, Serra clubs – or simply handing out! Available on Web as free download. Recommend 80# silk for best printing results. May also order through Web site. Indicate address/quantity. 25 for $10 + P/H. Available in ENGLISH and SPANISH.
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold LITANY for PRIESTS: Beautifully printed on 100# silk (a bit thicker than brochures). Original artwork (inspired by the Diary of St Faustina) by Seven Sister in Minnesota, Litany by Richard Cardinal Cushing. 25 for $10 + P/H.
REMEMBRANCE of those SEVEN SISTERS who have PASSED: We want to remember those Seven Sisters in name and in prayer, who have gone before us to their eternal rest. Visit the Web site. Click on ABOUT folder and scroll to bottom, choose: IN REMEMBRANCE. Follow prompts… OR you may submit info via the Website email. Please check site monthly for additions and to pray!
PRIEST who has PASSED to ETERNAL REST: If the priest for whom you pray has entered eternal life, the group may be led to continue to pray for a length of time for the soul of that priest. Perhaps a novena of Holy Hours or the offering of holy Mass(es) for the priest. You will know. Some groups have/are offering Holy Hours for an entire year for their beloved deceased priest. Groups may be started following the death of a priest that did not have a group prior. This is commendable and welcomed. Please register these special groups through the Web site.
SPANISH translation of Communique: Posted (and archived) on the Website. If it is easier to receive through an email account, please let me know. Allow a few days for translation. Commitment Prayer/Guidelines Booklet in Spanish (on the Website – free download)
Fr Joseph Johnson (Apostolate Founder and Chaplain) anticipates his JUBILEE
25 years a priest of Jesus Christ +++31 May 1998 – 31 May 2023
Let us flood his mailbox: prayers, cards, well wishes, gratitude, testimonies, surprises!
Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as together we live our daily Lenten best to pray, fast and give alms, fortifying this three-fold cord which is not easily broken (Eccl 4:12). Our disciplines solidly ready and move us toward our shared Catholic mission of sanctity.
“Beware the man of one book,” quipped the Saintly writer, Thomas Aquinas. And it might be fittingly adjoined, “Behold the Seven Sister who reads The Priest is Not His Own, for her prayer offerings will assuredly be enlightened and strengthened.”
Since the early days of the Apostolate, Venerable Fulton Sheen’s outstanding book, The Priest is Not His Own(1963), remains recommended reading for every Anchoress (see Guidelines). Hope reigns that upon that reading, the members of each group would be encouraged to follow course. The book is written to Sheen’s brother priests, but its wide availability invites us to listen in and learn. Sheen holds nothing back and opens wide the door into the life of a priest who offers himself as both priest and victim. This overarching message speaks to the very heart of each priest, himself an alter Christus. “Unlike anyone else, Our Lord came on earth, not to live, but to die. Death for our redemption was the goal of His sojourn here, the gold that he was seeking. He was, therefore, not primarily a teacher, but a Savior. Was not Christ the Priest a Victim? He never offered anything except Himself. So, we have a mutilated concept of our priesthood, if we envisage it apart from making ourselves victims in the prolongation of His Incarnation.” All 17 Chapters substantially underscore this priestly viewof the call not only as shepherd of a flock, but also as a sacrificial offering, both in imitation of Christ. While the Archbishop does not suggest the priest literally sacrifice his earthly life, he does ask him to sacrifice his entire soul to Christ on the Cross in every Mass and his entire body to Christ with the breaking of bread. Sheen reminds that the priest also sacrifices his place in the world, remaining sympathetic to man’s difficulties, albeit separated “…Though we are in the world, we are never of it, for our High Priest has called us out of this world.” This separation from the world might become more challenging as a priest receives honors or distinctions or gains popularity.
It has been said that if upon reading a Table of Contents, one is moved in the heart, the reading of that book will surely finish the work and convert that heart. Here are a few chapter titles from The Priest is Not His Own guaranteed to stir the heart: The Priest is like Jacob’s Ladder; Holy Spirit and the Priest; The Spirit of Preaching and Praying; The Priest as Simon and Peter; Judas and the First Crack of his Priesthood; Why make a Holy Hour; and The Priest and his Mother.
Through roughly 275 pages, Sheen consistently offers anaide-mémoire of the call of the priest and enkindles the desire in his brother priests to generously choose to be as close in thought and deed to Christ as possible. The work is wholly rooted in the teachings of the Church and dense in sacred Scripture connections. A golden thread that encompasses the book’s theme is this one speaking of Christ, but one easily appreciated in the life of any priest: He gave Himself up on our behalf, a sacrifice breathing out fragrance as He offered it to God (Ephesians 5:2).
Well-known is Sheen’s fidelity to the offering of a Holy Hour every day of his priesthood. He preaches from his practices, challenging all priests to take this up. He knows it as not only possible, but necessary! As robust and demanding as his priestly call was, including college-level teaching, weekly radio broadcast, The Catholic Hour, the award-winning television show, Life is Worth Living, and writing scores of books (73 in total), Archbishop Sheen dedicated much of his time toward the formation of priests. The retreats and writings for his brother priests were manifestations of an unwavering love for Christ and His Church. In his autobiography, Treasure in Clay, he said, “I have loved every work to which I have been called or sent. But perhaps the most meaningful and gratifying experience of my life has been giving retreats to priests. . . . I really wonder if the priests who made these retreats received as much from me as I from them.”
Eleven of the volunteer Apostolate Coordinators in various dioceses and myself recently took part in an 8-week pilot book study of The Priest is Not His Own. The syllabus was written by Seven Sister, Ginger H (Texas). She served as our facilitator extraordinaire. Over and again came bursts of: “I never thought of that before… This is so rich… I am gaining insights on how to pray for our priests… Wow, what a connection… Yes, Anchoresses need to read this!” Another session will be offered for Coordinators in August, and time and prayer will direct what is next. In the meantime, the book is readily available at bookstores and an Audio version accessible on Formed. Check out Sheen’s YouTube of his talk called “Holy Orders” or another book entitled Those Mysterious Priests.
With all this said, one might still be wondering just why “the priest is not his own” … Working oneself to the end of the book will have its reward! Ven Fulton Sheen, pray for us and guide us!
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.… eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day…. “One Ave Maria makes hell tremble” (St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate. THANK YOU! The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
SEVEN SISTERS – in and out and about
Heartfelt welcome: NEW groups that registered in February to cover more priests in daily prayer: Additional groups in Basilian Salvatorian Order (Byzantine) (NEW), Cameroon (Africa),Toronto/Ontario (Canada) and these USA states: California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. We pray daily for priests and bishops in over 3000 groups serving 6 continents, 27 countries, all 50 USA states, most Canadian Provinces. Let no shepherd be left behind!
RECENT … and AHEAD on the calendar:
> Fri-Sun,10-12 March: Retreat at Franciscan Retreat Center, Prior Lake, MN. Embracing the Gift of the Eucharist. Mary and the Eucharist: Inseparable. Contact: kthoraldson@allsaintschurch.com
> Sun, 26 March: Feast of our beloved patroness, St Margaret Clitherow. She loves us and prays for us! Seek her friendship and support. St Margaret Clitherow, pray for us and guide us!
Giving glory to God: Especially desiring testimonies from Priests, Bishops, Fasting Brothers regarding the Apostolate. Send to Janette Howe, 43 Nord Circle Rd, St Paul, MN 55127
More glory to God: Because so many have asked… Would like to hear from those in the field of Product Design interested in joining in prayerful endeavor and assistance in how our beautiful logo and mission might be utilized in things like a monastic kneeler, scarf, pin, vigil candle glass or the like.
MATTERS of the HEART:
Ø “I’m very impressed with this work in support of our priests. It’s been very meaningful for me personally these few first months that I’ve been committed, and I believe helpful to our pastor.” (Natalie, Ohio)
Ø “We are off to a wonderful start. The priest is praying for us!!” (Esther, Wisconsin)
Ø “My mom is anchoress at my home parish and it has been so fruitful. I am now a FOCUS missionary and our priests give so much and have changed so many lives in their ministry here. They are also young priests who have so much on their plate and I want to serve them through our prayers.” (Mary, West Virginia)
Ø “I am a member of the block Rosary Crusade with a love and dedication to Mary and the rosary. The priest is surrounded by temptation just as we are, so they need our prayers.” (Lucy, Cameroon, Africa)
Ø “I love the Eucharist and I want the priests to always be protected by the Holy Spirit. I love going to adoration and praying for the priests.” (Gabriela, Maryland)
Ø “I attended a TEC retreat years ago. During that retreat, our parish priest that asked me to consider the Apostolate was discerning his vocation. I witnessed him kneeling, praying the rosary as a young high school boy. He inspired me. I knew I was being called to pray for him in the Apostolate.” (Judy, Wisconsin)
Ø “A lovely lady called me and explained the Apostolate of the Seven Sisters. I thought that was the most beautiful idea to pray for our priest. When I shared the apostolate with the others, I was surprised by their enthusiasm, love, and respect for our priests, and now we are ready to start.” (Teresa, Virginia)
Ø “A woman from a nearby parish introduced me to Seven Sisters Apostolate and asked me to pray about initiating a chapter in my parish. We have a brand new, first-time pastor and feel very led to support him with prayer. All of the “sisters” already keep a weekly hourly (or more) vigil before the Blessed Sacrament and understand they would be adding an additional hour a week to pray for our pastor.” (Pat, New Jersey)
ELIJAH’s HELPERS: By prayerful desire and directive of our Apostolate Chaplain, Fr Johnson, a pilot group of Seven Sisters intercessors dedicated to offering Holy Hours for priests in various forms of crisis (no names known) within the Archdiocese of St Paul-Mpls, began in June 2021. In June 2022, this fruit of the Apostolate opened to form more groups in more Dioceses. All inquiries to Nancy at ElijahsHelpers@gmail.com or cell: 612-756-1107. It is growing! Please consider this!
APPRECIATED and LOVEDquilt project: A double cloaking for RETIRED PRIESTS: Seven Sisters prayer and a quilt! The priests love both! To learn more regarding a single quilt for a retired priest or on how to get this started in your Diocese, contact QuiltsBySevenSisters@gmail.com
FASTING BROTHERS is growing: Groups of men offering various forms of fasting to augment the prayer efforts of a Seven Sisters group. Each man prayerfully discerns the type of fasting he will offer and commits to fast a designated day of the week (excepting Sunday/Solemnities). Our Chaplain, strongly urges formation of these groups. There is a form on the Website to register.
LAMP-BEARERS: In January 2020, Lamp-Bearers, so-named for their action of continually ‘filling of their lamps with the oil of prayer’, was launched to pray for the Apostolate at large. Each intercessor prays a minimum of once per week, many are offering prayers every day. Intentions gleaned from topics and calendar points in the monthly Communique and also sent to members on the second or third Sunday of the month. Additional intercessors welcomed. Inquire through Website.
SEVEN SISTERS Guideline BOOKLETS: Available as free download from Web site. Hard copies passed on for printing cost of $2 each + P/H. Order thru Web email with amount desired/address
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold BROCHURE: Effectively used in parish pamphlet stands (ask pastor’s approval prior), Adoration Chapels, Retreat Centers, Bags/Packets for Women’s Conferences/Retreats, Women’s clubs, Serra clubs – or simply handing out! Available on Web as free download. Recommend 80# silk for best printing results. May also order through Web site. Indicate address/quantity. 25 for $10 + P/H. Available in ENGLISH and SPANISH.
SEVEN SISTERS Tri-fold LITANY for PRIESTS: Beautifully printed on 100# silk (a bit thicker than brochures). Original artwork (inspired by the Diary of St Faustina) by Seven Sister in Minnesota, Litany by Richard Cardinal Cushing. 25 for $10 + P/H.
REMEMBRANCE of those SEVEN SISTERS who have PASSED: We want to remember those Seven Sisters in name and in prayer, who have gone before us to their eternal rest. Visit the Web site. Click on ABOUT folder and scroll to bottom, choose: IN REMEMBRANCE. Follow prompts… OR you may submit info via the Website email. Please check site monthly for additions and to pray!
PRIEST who has PASSED to ETERNAL REST: If the priest for whom you pray has entered eternal life, the group may be led to continue to pray for a length of time for the soul of that priest. Perhaps a novena of Holy Hours or the offering of holy Mass(es) for the priest. You will know. Some groups have/are offering Holy Hours for an entire year for their beloved deceased priest. Groups may be started following the death of a priest that did not have a group prior. This is commendable and welcomed. Please register these special groups through the Web site.
SPANISH translation of Communique: Posted (and archived) on the Website. If it is easier to receive through an email account, please let me know. Allow a few days for translation. Commitment Prayer/Guidelines Booklet in Spanish (on the Website – free download)
Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as together we live our days in Ordinary time, anticipating the dawn of our holy Lenten season, Ash Wednesday, 22 February. The mysteries and marvels of the Season will assuredly find us!
St Thérèse of Lisieux, in her enigmatic rose-showering way, can launch us into considering echoes of her little way. She once mused, “By our little acts of charity in the shade we convert souls far away, we help missionaries, we win abundant alms: and by that means build actual dwellings spiritual and material for our Eucharistic Lord.” Perhaps she had Seven Sisters in heart, for you characteristically consider others greater than yourselves and act accordingly.
Daniel Ridgeway Knight in his Early Morning captures the sweet essence of our little way of fidelity to a weekly Holy Hour. The painting remains a fitting cover for our Guidelines Booklet. Here, Knight’s figure emerges as serene in the midst of routine. Together we can imagine her tranquil, early morning trek, followed by prayer (for a priest?) in the hilltop chapel, a stop for market-fresh goods, then homeward bound. While our own parallels to this scenario likely carry more exterior intrusions, our interiors would benefit a similar graced tranquility. This is truly the core that poises us to multiply our love. Quietness. Trust. Strength. (From Apostolate core verse, Isaiah 30:15)
A candle flame shared with another wick does not diminish the radiance of either, in fact the collective glow is more! Truly, through you, love begets love. Here is a wee sampling of how your lives and light and love have been amplified, bountifully blessing the priest/bishop for whom you pray, the Apostolate itself, your families and me personally.
+ Many heroic sacrifices are made weekly by many of you to keep your commitment to pray. The scribes in heaven are being kept happy detailing your hidden sacrifices.
+ During pandemic days, a priest tearfully reported witnessing a Seven Sister kneeling on a garden pad in the parking lot of a ‘limited access’ parish, oriented toward the tabernacle, praying.
+ Generous donations of multiple Seven Sisters financed the Website redesign and its maintenance.
+ One Anchoress tells of each member periodically offering 1/7 of a meal for their pastor: Voila! A seven-course meal in a flash – with leftovers!
+ Several groups arrange for Mass offerings (in addition to their Holy Hours) for their priest/Bishop.
+ Scores of Seven Sisters quietly dispense Apostolate holy cards and brochures in Chapels/parishes.
+ Susan M faithfully and skillfully formats the Communique in a pdf file every month, gratis.
+ Marg W’s generous donation allowed all the Holy Cards (6) to be translated and printed in Spanish.
+ Twenty-seven Lamp Bearers pray at least weekly, most daily, for the Apostolate at large.
+ Fifty plus women are volunteer Coordinators in their Diocese. Each in their prayerful way, promoting more groups for more priests, keeping records, serving as local resources, and oftentimes organizing local gatherings of information and/or times of Reflection and Renewal.
+ Deb T promotes the Apostolate in her varied travels through conversation, offering informationals and brochures. She also initiated and leads the Appreciated and Loved Quilt Project for retired priests.
+ Several Sisters report that their family members either attend the Holy Hours with them and add to the offering for the priest/bishop or are now themselves inspired to offer personal Holy Hours.
+ Bridget K, JoAnn Z and Kathleen K pray monthly during the literal writing of each Communique.
+ Both priests and Seven Sisters report the joy of anonymous notes being written to a priest from a Sister to remind of the seamless prayers, appreciation and love for him.
+ Valerie G helped to launch the first Fasting Brothers group in North Carolina. And away we go!
+Countless notes of love and encouragement from many of you arrive in my mailbox, which always include prayer, and often donations, testimonies, holy cards, article clippings and books of stamps!
+ Ginger H has written a book study, gratis, on Sheen’s The Priest is Not His Own and is currently conducting the pilot study via Skype with 12 of the Apostolate Coordinators. More to follow!
+ Nancy H commenced and now assists in organizing all new Elijah’s Helpers groups for priests in crisis. She also donated her exquisite hand-crafted counted cross-stitch Madonna of the Grapes to us.
+ Joe R (materials printer) and Pete B (Holy Cards/medals) give us countless discounts and freebies.
+ Tireless database maestro, Judy P, and Webmaster, Mary U, are like honey drops from heaven!!
+ No one supports the Work in a more veiled and formidable way than my husband, Jeff, who is tireless in prayer, trips to the post office/bank, and in his offers of wise and sure words in due season.Veiled charity joyfully rises and overflows from existing charity. Love for the sake of love! It is a wellspring that boasts divine origin, bears a thrill of heart to both giver and receiver, and is far-reaching. Seven Sisters perhaps are graced to understand more than most. St Thérèse judiciously reminds: “All we accomplish, however brilliant, is worth nothing without love.”
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest…. eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day…. “One Ave Maria makes hell tremble” (St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate. THANK YOU! The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
Greetings to dearest Sisters in Christ as we continue in Christmastide celebration. Our joy cannot be limited to one day. The Church gives us a full season to happily sweep others into the jubilation! Emmanuel is here! O come, let us adore Him!
Responding to a door bell one day, a pint-sized fellow stared back at me through masked eyes. “I am a burglar.” My sure reply: “Don’t move! My son, Spencer, is going to take care of you!” The mask and attached skull cap and cape were swiftly hurled. “Mom, no… it’s me, it’s me!”Childhood role playing can help muster healthy courage and wisdom to take on identities as we mature and maneuver through life. One might take on the role of student, friend, spouse, mother, neighbor or a vocational path of doctor, engineer, teacher. Some of these personas meet retirement, others might mark our headstones. As Catholics we believe that an ontological change (same being, interior change) takes place in Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders. When validly administered, these Sacraments produce a permanent change in what a person is and the nature of his/her existence.
While priests still look very much like any other layperson, there is something fundamentally, or ontologically, different about them after their ordination. During the International Reunion of Priests (18 June 1996, Fatima), John Cardinal O’Connor shared: “In my judgment, this concept of the ontological nature of the priesthood, is critical. We don’t just put on vestments; we don’t just receive an assignment. Neither makes us priests. We become priests at ordination. There is an “ontological change” in our spiritual nature. Such is a profound mystery. … A cup of wine still smells like wine and tastes like it, but it is now the Blood of Christ. At ordination an ontological change takes place.”
In respecting the good Cardinal’s statement, priestly vestments can serve to remind both the priest and the laity regarding this irrevocable ontological fact. To this point, Pope Benedict XVI states: “Just as in Baptism an “exchange of clothing” is given, an exchanged destination, a new existential communion with Christ, so also in priesthood there is an exchange: in the administration of the sacraments, the priest now acts and speaks “in persona Christi”. In the sacred mysteries, he does not represent himself and does not speak expressing himself, but speaks for the Other, for Christ.” For the priest, vestments reflect a distinctive mission and identity in Christ. They manifest his total gift of self.
The nature of priestly attire (clericals and liturgical) both reveal and veil. The man clothed in them distinguishes his role while out and about in the world and also during religious ceremonies. Certain features (color, design) might bode familiarity, but deeper meanings subsist. As a priest clothes himself for holy Mass, he prays vesting prayers in preparation. The initial prayer is uttered while the priest washes his hands to prepare to vest. “Give virtue to my hands, O Lord, that being cleansed from all stain I might serve you with purity of mind and body.” The first vestment donned is an amice, a square white cloth with two cords attached. When put on, it is held at the top of the head and allowed to flow down over the shoulders. Tucked all around to conceal the clerical collar, its length amply covers the shoulders while the cords are tied around the chest. “Place, O Lord, the helmet of salvation upon my head, to repel the assaults of the devil.” Next comes the alb, a white robe, symbolizing purity and thus extending over the whole body. “Cleanse me, O Lord, and purify my heart, that washed in the Blood of the Lamb, I may attain everlasting joy.” Following is the cincture, a cord or rope worn as a belt, reminding of St Peter’s admonition to Gird your loins. It serves as a reminder of chastity. “Gird me, O Lord, with the cincture of purity and quench in me the fire of concupiscence; that the virtue of continence and chastity may remain in me.” The stole, a generous piece of cloth draped over the neck like a scarf, is next. It falls down over both shoulders and the front of the priest’s chest and then crossed and secured by the cincture. Its origin is the Jewish prayer shawl and symbolic of the spiritual authority of the priest. It is worn for blessings, baptisms, confessions, exorcisms. “Return to me, O Lord, the stole of immortality, which I have lost in the sin of my first parent; and although I, unworthy, approach Thy sacred Mystery, grant to me, nevertheless, everlasting joy.” The final vestment is the chasuble, representative of the robe Our Lord was mocked in during His Passion, and thus indicative of the immense charity and endurance essential for the priestly life. It is to be worn over the stole, fittingly symbolizing charity over authority. “O Lord, Who hast said, My yoke is easy and My burden light; grant that I may be able so to bear it, that I may obtain Thy grace. Amen.”
In gaining awareness of vesting prayers, Seven Sisters have a beautiful opportunity: an echo of these prayers in hopes that the priests may live them more fully and an echo of these prayers in hopes that we may grow in the understanding of the character of the priest, the Mass, and ourselves.
St John Eudes to fellow priests: “As soon as you leave the house to go to Mass, you should realize that you are going not merely to attend or watch, but actually to perform an action more holy and divine, greater and more sublime, more noble and admirable than any other in heaven or on earth. Consequently, you must perform it in a holy and divine manner, that is, with thoroughly holy and divine dispositions, with great care and attention of mind and heart, and with the realization that what you are going to do is more vitally important to you than anything else in the world.” Be assured, the priest does not arrive suitably vested at holy Mass to announce he is a burglar. Rather, he offers an invitation to those gathered to prepare their hearts to enter the mysteries of the Faith. For therein, he knows well, that through him and with him and in him, Christ will present Himself, to capture those freely-offered open hearts for His Love.
United in prayer and mission…that our prayers may find the heart of every bishop and priest.… eternal gratitude continues as you each remember to offer a wee Hail Mary for me every day…. “One Ave Maria makes hell tremble” (St John Vianney). Pray that I will not ‘spoil the beautiful work that God has entrusted…’ (St Teresa of Calcutta) … your kind emails and notes and phone calls and generous support always arrive to my heart door at the right moment! Your financial sacrifices are for 100% furtherance of Apostolate. THANK YOU! The letters of testimony are so beautiful and edifying! What glory is given to God through your writing! Eternal gratitude is mine for YOU! Be assured of my continued daily prayers for you at the altar.
