Marian Helper Winter 2012-2013

We asked some of our Marian Helpers to share their thoughts after going through the first part of the Hearts Afire Parish-based Program for the New Evangelization SM drawing from my book, Consoling the Heart of Jesus , and its accompanying materials. ‘Most important book in the last decade’ Consoling the Heart of Jesus is the most important book I have read in the last decade. It has reinvigorated and focused my spiritual life, deepened my appreciation for Jesus and Mary, and called me to daily works of mercy. —Thomas Smith ‘A bit closer to the Holy Trinity’ Brothers and Sisters, after completing the “Consoling the Heart of Jesus” experience, I can truly say that I have advanced a bit closer to the Holy Trinity through the passionate Heart of Jesus. As I am truly a “little soul” and as I have recently begun my belated journey to God, I am so glad that this opportunity was offered me. Thanks to everyone. — Bill Richardson ‘I’m drawn daily to console Him’ After 10 weeks of reading and reflecting on Consoling the Heart of Jesus , I’m drawn daily to console Him, receive His mercy, and out of thanksgiving, to pass it on to others. As an ambassador for Christ, it is my new job description. Father Michael, because of your tutoring, I’ve been given this wonderful duty. I thank God for the gifts that He’s given you and your staff. — Gerrie Soine ‘Expanded my awareness of God’s mercy’ Consoling the Heart of Jesus has expanded my awareness of the actions and availability of God’s mercy in my life and the lives of others. What a blessing to be able to imme- diately turn to that mercy and find peace and forgiveness when I have fallen, as I frequently do. — Mary Brickweg The retreat ‘has made Jesus so real’ Living the retreat “Consoling the Heart of Jesus” has changed my life in the most awe- some way! Before this, I felt that God was “Our Father who art in heaven ...” a loving Father who was just “up there” and some- how just out of reach. The Consoling retreat has made Jesus so real — a living, loving God who loves me and wants me to spend time with Him, consoling Him, walking with Him through His Passion. It has brought me face to face with “Our Father,” and the journey has been amazing. — Arely Deras Reminded of grace available at 3 o’clock I believe that the book and study materials really prepared me for some difficult news I got later in the summer —a spiritual battle within my own extended family. I feel so blessed to have been reminded of the importance of the grace available at the 3 o’clock hour, to meditate on the Passion, and to continue to hold Mary’s hand on the path to Jesus and to peace. Thank you, Fr. Michael Gaitley, and all those who made this material available. — Maria L. Sylvester A special thanks to all of you for sharing your experiences after going through the retreat based on Consoling the Heart of Jesus. I pray that you will continue to receive the Lord’s mercy, share it with others, and con- sole His Heart by trusting in Him. — Fr. Joseph, MIC M ARIAN H ELPER • W INTER 2012-13 • www.marian.org 5 Father Joseph’s Father Joseph would be happy to find a letter from you in his mailbox. Your letter may be edited for clarity and space. Send it to: Father Joseph’s Mailbox, Editorial, Eden Hill, Stockbridge, MA 01263, o r [email protected]. Pilot group members of the “Consoling the Heart of Jesus” small-group retreat meet for part two of the first stage of the Hearts Afire Program. This part of the program was released on Nov. 1. Mai lbox K ELLY W AHLQUIST Back to Index