On this (traditional date of) Epiphany we recognize that we too are called to be like the ancient Magi (perhaps Jesus’ first Gentile disciples and perhaps one of the first Christian saints) to find the wisdom of salvation at the foot of the Manger.
Spiritual warfare isn’t an option for human beings. Some of us know its going on, others are oblivious. We are on a battle ship, not a cruise ship. To help you, Epiphany Water will be available starting tomorrow, Wednesday, January 7. It is the most powerful Holy Water the Church offers. The water will be already bottled and available for a donation. It can only be blessed on the traditional Epiphany date (Jan. 6) and in Latin since the blessing is from the Roman Ritual. It is highly recommended for situations of demonic disturbance and for protection from such. We also have exorcised salt (which is also blessed)
Continuing on spiritual warfare, a few copies of Fr. Chad Ripperger’s Deliverance Prayers (For Use by the Laity) are still available ($20). Praying for healing & protection, binding spirits, breaking chains of bondage from foolish decisions we made earlier in life, interceding for one’s family members—all of this is part of NORMAL Christian spiritual warfare. Why not make this part of your New Year’s Resolution—to incorporate spiritual warfare prayers into your daily prayer life? Spiritual warfare will always happen because the Devil never rests.
First Wednesday is tomorrow and we will honor St. Joseph. According to St. Alphonsus Liguori, Jesus told St. Margaret of Cortona to never allow a day to pass without rendering some homage to him. “First Wednesday” is a complement to the First Friday & First Saturday devotions of reparation. We are one of the only places that observes this devotional commemoration. Why not make it your New Year Resolution to grow closer to St. Joseph this year by attending First Wednesday commemorations? He is a saint for ANY intention, and is the ONLY SAINT with the grace of “paternal intercession” in Heaven being the human father of Jesus of Nazareth. (The Bible never calls Joseph “foster-father.”) Today we honor St. Andre Bessette—a saint who was a great devotee of St. Joseph. St. Joseph helped in his sorrows and needs, and will do the same for us.
To communicate with me, please DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS EMAIL but email me directly at abunaalex@yahoo.com or call/text me at (313) 727-9784. St. Andre Bessette and the holy Magi from the East pray for us!
In Jesus, Mary & Joseph,
Fr. Alex Kratz, OFM
Spiritual Director of Terra Sancta Ministries