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Closing Out 2017 With Much Gratitude And Hope

12/31/2017

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As I wrote my New Year's Eve post last year, I was patiently waiting for copies of my book to arrive.  Unfortunately, I soon learned after the first of the year that my publisher (Tate Publishing) had been sued and the company was going out of business. My books never arrived.  The official release date for my book was scheduled to be February 28, 2017. That day came and passed and it seemed that I was no closer to having my book published than before I had even started writing it. 

After several attempts with other publishing companies I was still at square one.  Finally, I found Vesuvius Press in Phoenix, Arizona.  Jeffrey Campbell helped make my book a reality under the Amor Deus Publishing label.  While my book is not available on the big sites such as Amazon or Barnes and Noble, I am grateful to have copies in hand. I never imagined that the journey to get my book in print would be so lengthy.

The feedback that I have received has been very positive.  That is especially true when someone reads the book and then contacts me to get additional copies to give away as gifts.  My main goal in writing the book was to help people who are hurting.  I think it is serving that purpose.  The difficulties I encountered on the road to getting the book published were worth it if my writing helps ease the pain of others even a little.

My New Year's Eve tradition is to stay home where it is warm, quiet, and peaceful.  I will be following that same tradition this year.  I especially like to end the year in a spirit of prayer.  

First of all, I give adoration, thanks and praise to God for all the blessings in my life.  I am grateful for the gift of family, friends, faith, and fellowship.  I am grateful for the privilege to minister as a deacon in the Church for these last 18 and a half years.


It seems like there is never a shortage of people to pray for and concerns to be brought before the foot of the cross.  Here are some of my petitions for this New Year’s Eve.
 
I pray for all church leadership—the pope, bishops, priests, deacons, religious, and all lay leaders striving to proclaim the Good News of Salvation in their respective roles.  Fill them with zeal, energy, hope, integrity, courage, perseverance, and a genuine love for God’s people.  
 
I pray for all who bear the name of Christian—may each of us live our lives in such a way that we truly bear witness to Jesus Christ.

 
I pray for all who do not know Jesus Christ—may they come to encounter the living God through the faithful witness of those who believe and follow in the footsteps of Christ.
 
I pray for all government leaders worldwide—may they govern with wisdom, prudence, and integrity as guided by the Holy Spirit.  Specifically, I pray for our president and vice president, the current U.S. Supreme Court Justices and any to be appointed, the U.S. Senators and Representatives, Cabinet Officials, ambassadors, and all appointees who wield power and influence.


I pray for all local government officials as well—the governors, lieutenant governors, secretaries of state, treasurers, auditors, senators, representatives, judges, mayors, city administrators, council men and women, sheriffs, and all appointees who wield power and influence in any way.  May each of them carry out their duties with diligence, prudence, wisdom, and integrity.
 
I pray for who are struggling in any way.  I pray for those whose hearts are broken due to relationships falling apart.  May the shattered hopes and dreams eventually be pieced back together in renewed spirit and vigor.

I pray for the incarcerated and all of their families--may they find strength, hope, healing, and conversion.

I pray for the homeless—may they find shelter in the immediate circumstances and eventually obtain a safe haven that is more permanent.
 
I pray for the unemployed and the underemployed—may all who seek gainful employment be successful in their endeavors.

 
I pray for all those suffering from physical illness—may they experience healing, comfort, and peace through the mercy of the Divine Physician.
 
I pray for all those suffering from mental illness and emotional issues—may they find solace and healing from the support and encouragement of loved ones.  May they also experience beneficial help from the medical community and the healing touch of our Lord.
 
I pray for all who are depressed, especially those contemplating suicide—may they reach out and get the help they need to cope with the current circumstances and be led to healing and wholeness in the love of Jesus Christ.

I pray for all those who are home-bound, in hospitals, nursing homes, and under the care of hospice—may they experience genuine love from those who care for their needs.
 
I pray for the terminally ill—may they find comfort in the love of family and friends and eternal hope in the embrace of Jesus Christ who is Lord forever and ever.
 
I pray for all those suffering from addictions.  Through God's grace, the help of others, and a definitive purpose to be set free, may each of you truly experience the freedom you desire.

I pray for all those family members who care for loved ones who are suffering—may God fill you with patience, fortitude, and strength.
 
I pray for all who are grieving the death of a loved one—may you find comfort and peace in the warm embrace of God’s love and the care and concern of other family members and friends.

 
I pray for the safety of all travelers.

I pray for our law enforcement personnel and other first responders—may they be protected at all times, but especially on this particular night which generally adds to the stress level of their positions.  Give each of them keen insight and awareness, quick reflexes and solid judgments, and bring them safely back to their families at the end of their shift.
 
I pray for all who are coping with natural disasters.  
 
I pray for our culture—may we turn back to God with our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength.
 
I pray that we may be aware of the sacred dignity and value of each human life from conception through natural death.  May we build a true culture of life in our society.
 
I pray for all couples preparing for marriage and those who are newly married—may their future children draw them closer to Christ and to each other.         
 
I pray for all children who will be born today—may they may come to know a world which chooses life over death and light over darkness. 

 
I pray for all little children who await the birth of a new sister or brother—may the joyful expectation that shows in their eyes inspire their parents to hope and conviction. 
 
I pray for obstetrical doctors and nurses and all who nurture the life of children in the womb--may God bless them for their faith, compassion, and love. 
 
I pray for all who have been scarred by the tragedy of abortion—may they experience repentance, healing, and peace. 
 
I pray for all people who work in the media—may God move them to a conversion of heart which reverences human life and upholds the dignity of human sexuality.
 
I pray for those who march for life in Washington, D.C. and all across the nation each January—may their voices be heard and the lives of children be saved. 
 
I pray for all those trapped in human trafficking—may they be set free from the bondage they are in and society effectively address the needs of the vulnerable among us.
 
I pray for the refugees and all persecuted Christians—may they find safety and security from those who want to do them harm.

I pray for all who have died this past year.  May they rest in God's eternal dwelling.

I pray for peace throughout the world.

 
Finally, I pray for myself. Lord, please help me to grow in wisdom and in favor with You in 2018.  Give me Your grace and Your blessing that I may root out sin from my life and join my will more completely to Your Divine Will.  Dear Lord, make me holy as you are holy!

I close with this personal message to each of you.

Dear Readers,

If you have specific prayer requests that you would like included in my list of intentions, please mention them in the comment section below.  If it is a private request that you don't want everyone to see, feel free to e-mail it to me at:

deaconvernon@gmail.com

I trust in the Sacred Scriptures which tell us the power of two or more praying together for a specific intention.  I look forward to joining my prayer with yours.

Have a wonderful end to the year 2017.  May 2018 bring you an abundance of God's grace, mercy, and healing!

Sincerely,

Deacon Vernon 

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Is There Anything You Want To Change In 2018?

12/30/2017

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"When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves."
~Viktor E. Frankl

"We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the game."
~Randy Pausch

"Change your opinions, keep to your principles; change your leaves, keep intact your roots."
~Victor Hugo

"There are three constants in life... change, choice and principles."
~Stephen Covey

"If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change."
~Wayne Dyer

I notice with each passing year that I seem to be more reflective.  The journey on this earth is for a limited time.  The reality of the shortness of this pilgrimage prompts me to take a serious look at how I spend my time.  Is the way I am living my life giving glory to God?  How can I more fully cooperate with God's grace so that I am truly building up the Kingdom?

​Catchy quotations may spark the imagination, but the discipline to do something is a moment by moment decision.  Will 2018 be a year of personal growth?

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Is The Foundation Of Your Life Solid And Sturdy?

12/29/2017

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"Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed."
~Cavett Robert

Are you making any resolutions for the new year in regard to your spiritual journey?

Are you any closer to God at the end of 2017 than you were at the end of 2016?

What will make 2018 a year of grace and holiness for you?

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How Are You Celebrating the Octave of Christmas?

12/27/2017

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Yes, this photo is from last April.  However, after the recent frigid temperatures, I wanted to feel warm.  This helps me get there in my mind.

During the Octave of Christmas we celebrate some wonderful feast days.  Today is the Feast of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist.  Tomorrow is the Feast of the Holy Innocents. I invite you to read Matthew's Gospel 2: 13-18 if you are unable to attend Mass tomorrow.  I also invite you to learn more about the Feast of the Holy Innocents by reading the Catholic Encyclopedia entry regarding this feast.  When Herod had the male children two years and under killed, how many children did we lose during that time period?  The Catholic Encyclopedia provides some interesting background information about that question and much more.

www.newadvent.org/cathen/07419a.htm

Finally, a pastoral note for tomorrow.  We are encouraged to pray for all the innocent who have perished by abortion, starvation, and war.  If you own the book, "Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers," you can find a recommended prayer for this day on page 367.

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Fourth Sunday of Advent to Merry Christmas!

12/25/2017

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It was a busy fifteen hours.  My family celebrated the Fourth Sunday of Advent by going to Mass @ noon.  We then prepared for Christmas Eve dinner, the opening of presents, and a little rest before going back to the cathedral at 11:00 pm to get ready for Midnight Mass.  It is still one of my favorite liturgies of the year, but I will admit that staying up past midnight does not have the same appeal as it did when I was younger.  Does anyone know why that is?

​I forgot to take a new photo at the cathedral after Mass so I will have to use one from 2015 that I have on file.  Thanks to all who work behind the scenes to make our churches beautiful throughout the liturgical seasons.  Your work and dedication is appreciated.

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Finally, I share the photo below from the Diocese of Cheyenne Facebook Page.  This is my ninth Christmas in Cheyenne since joining the chancery staff.  It is astounding to think of how quickly the years have gone by since moving to Wyoming.  I have been ordained for 18 years and have been living and working in the Diocese of Cheyenne for eight years and two months now.  I had no idea what God had in store for my ministry following my ordination.  It has been, and continues to be, quite a journey.
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The Reality of Winter Arrived Last Night

12/21/2017

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It was nearly 60 degrees yesterday.  As I took the trash out early this morning it was 11 degrees with close to 20 mph winds out of the north.  What a shock to the system. It was quite a change in a matter of hours.  The above photo may simply appear to be out of focus, but in actuality, it is blurry because of the intense blowing snow.  Those folks desiring a white Christmas may get their wish in many parts of our area.

SPEAKING OF CHANGE--

​Have you experienced any major changes in your life recently?  If so, how have you handled the transition? 

If you have not experienced any major changes in life recently, do you find yourself growing complacent? 

Regardless of how you answered these questions, I am really seeking your answer to this bottom-line question.  Are you growing?
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Homeless Memorial Day--Thursday, December 21

12/19/2017

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"The National Coalition for the Homeless, the National Consumer Advisory Board and the National Health Care for the Homeless Council encourage communities to host public events on or near December 21 remembering your neighbors who have died homeless in the past year. National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day takes place each year on the longest night of the year, December 21st."
~National Coalition for the Homeless (website)


nationalhomeless.org/about-us/projects/memorial-day/ 

I have participated in this event in Cheyenne ever since moving here.  I think I have only missed once or twice due to scheduling conflicts.  The weather has sometimes been incredibly brutal during the service.  That has given me just a small glimpse into what the homeless feel on a daily basis.  I cannot even imagine enduring the harsh winters here in Cheyenne without a having a safe refuge with food, water, dry clothing, heat, and a sense of security. 

I am posting this on my blog two days in advance of the event with the intent of inviting others to join us.  It is a short gathering but quite profound.  In Cheyenne, we will be at the Historic Cheyenne Depot Plaza from 12:00 noon to 1:00 P.M.  You can see the details on this website:

www.cheyenne.org/event/national-homeless-persons-memorial-day/14552/  

Could attending this event impact the rest of your Advent journey in a significant way?

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Third Sunday of Advent--Rejoice!

12/17/2017

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Much of secular society has been celebrating Christmas since Thanksgiving weekend.  Retailers have been celebrating Christmas since before Halloween.  In the Church, we are now at the Third Sunday of Advent.  The rose colored adornments at liturgy remind us that we are drawing near to Christmas.  Since the Fourth Sunday of Advent lands the day before Christmas, we are definitely drawing near.

Please don't miss the opportunity to pray well during these final days of Advent.  If your parish is having a penance service, please try to attend.  If they had one already and you missed it, look for other opportunities to receive God's grace and healing through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  I invite you to truly prepare the way of the Lord during these remaining days of Advent.

Finally, be aware of the people around you.  The holidays are a difficult time for many people.  Keep in mind especially those who have experienced a death in the family in the last year or two.  The Christmas season can be particularly difficult for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

Many social gatherings happen during this time of year.  Enjoy one another's company, but please be safe.  Don't drink and drive.  Tragic accidents always bring an immense amount of pain, but when that accident happens around Christmas, it seems to escalate the pain.  This is especially true if the accident was avoidable.


The "O Antiphons" become prevalent now as well.  I close with the prayer listed on the United states Conference of Catholic Bishops' website for December 17.

"O Wisdom of our God most high, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!"

www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/the-o-antiphons-of-advent.cfm

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Enjoys Christmas Break More--Teachers or Students?

12/15/2017

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"A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning."
~Brad Henry

As we approach Christmas break in our schools, I want to say thank you to teachers.  Your task is certainly not an easy one in modern society.  For all of you who go above and beyond the call of duty in your profession, please know of my gratitude and prayers.  I hope these days out of the classroom give you a chance to relax and enjoy family and friends.  May you come back in January refreshed and renewed!
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The Memorial of St. John of the Cross

12/14/2017

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The writings of St. John of the Cross have greatly impacted my desire for holiness.  I especially appreciate The Dark Night of the Soul.  The struggles of life and the challenges of being faithful in prayer certainly resonates with me.  How do we keep moving toward God when we feel isolated and alone? 

If you have never read the writings of St. John of the Cross I would invite you to do so.


I extend my best wishes to all of the Discalced Carmelites.  Happy Feast Day!

If you ever go on vacation to the state of Wisconsin (or if you live there), I would highly recommend visiting Holy Hill.  It is well worth the time.  You can read about the Carmelites on their website.

www.holyhill.com/

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    This is my personal blog.  The opinions expressed are those of Deacon Vernon and the blog's readers.  This site operates independently and is not affiliated with any other entity. The information I provide is on an "as-is" basis. I make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information on this blog. I will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information. Furthermore, I will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

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