A Summer of Faith and Love
Blessing Jar
There was a little jar, feeling sad and blue
Until one day it heard, “I know what I’ll do”
It was carried through the house to the material, scissors and glue
And placed in a box marked “Made with love for you”
~ + ~
There was a note inside that said just what to do
“Remember your blessings each day, some old, some new
Write them down on paper, any piece will do
Then place them in the Blessing jar, all year through
~ + ~
Now when the time comes, with family and friends around
Take them out one-by-one, and see God’s blessings abound
Though the times be good or bad, the memories you’ll share
Will show family, friends and all who come, God’s love is present here
~ + ~
Now, this little jar that started that out so blue
Has got a name and family and knows just what to do
The Blessing jar has made its way from our home to yours
Because you are a blessing we are most grateful for
God bless you!
Kindness Rocks
Kindness Rocks are a fun way to share God’s love with others. Find some smooth rocks and paint them with bright colors and faith-filled words like “God loves you” or “You are a blessing.” Let your rocks dry, then place them in parks, gardens, walking paths, or near playgrounds where people will find them. You can also give them to neighbors, leave them at the library, or share them with someone who needs a smile. Before you set them out or give them away, say a little prayer asking God to bless everyone who sees your Kindness Rock and to fill their hearts with joy.
Saints
Learning about the Saints can be fascinating!
If you’re not sure where to start try these options:
- Visit your local library
- Search online
- Follow @scmc.baltic on Facebook to learn about a different Saint each day
Cards
Take time to spread a little joy today!
There are many people who suffer from loneliness. Whether they live alone in their homes or are now living in a nursing home, loneliness can weigh heavy on the heart.
Taking the time to make a card, write a message, and give that card to someone in need can make the world of a difference in their lives.
Even if you do not know someone personally, you can still make cards and bring them to the local nursing home. They will distribute them for you.
Some cards to print:
Prayer Corner
“But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
~ Matthew 6:6
There are many ways to pray. Silently in our hearts, with a friend, at home with your family. You need to find what works for you. One option is to set-up a “prayer corner”, a small area set aside in your home for prayer.
Make that area your own. Set it up so it can help you focus and pray. A crucifix, a statue of Our Blessed Mother, an image of your favorite Saint – or two. Maybe have a small table with a nice tablecloth as the base. Whatever you choose will be right for you.
When you’re done, if you’d like to share, please take a picture and send it to us ~ we’d love to see what you are doing.
God bless you!
How to Pray the Rosary
- Begin by making the Sign of the Cross and pray “The Apostles’ Creed.”
- Pray the “Our Father.”
- Pray three “Hail Marys.”
- Pray the “Glory Be to the Father.”
- Announce the first mystery and pray the “Our Father.”
- Pray ten “Hail Marys,” while meditating on the mystery.
- Pray the “Glory Be to the Father.”
- The Fatima Prayer may be added at the end of the decade.
- Announce the second mystery and say the “Our Father.”
- Repeat 6 & 7 and continue with the Third, Fourth and Fifth Mysteries in the same manner.
- After completing the Fifth Mystery, Pray the “Hail, Holy Queen” on the center medal.
Finish your Rosary by reciting the “Rosary Prayer.”
Grace
Grace Before Meals
Bless us, O Lord,
and these Thy gifts,
which we are about to receive
from Thy bounty,
through Christ our Lord.
Amen
Another Option
You can write your own “Grace Before Meals” with your family!
Basics that can be included:
- Call upon God
- Thank Him for His Gifts
- Thank Him for the Food you are about to receive
- Add any additional prayer intentions
- Or, leave it open-ended for your family to add their intentions before each meal.
and then