Dear friends of Fr. Benedict,

From Trinity Retreat

Wednesday July 21, 2004

Sister Mary Anastasia, a wonderful old Carmelite sister from Alhambra, California, just passed away. She was filled with wise observations about life in general, the spiritual life, and everyday life. One of her best remarks is, “If it doesn't’t hurt, it’s not a sacrifice.” When we make up our mind to do things for others, it should be a sacrifice, it should hurt a little bit. I once heard a rabbi say to an audience, “You’re not giving till it hurts. You’re giving till it feels good.” It’s a great idea. As we survey our lives and examine our conscience, we should ask ourselves what we do that is a real, honest sacrifice. What do we do that costs us a little pain, discomfort, inconvenience? This is what really makes a sacrifice to God a prayer. This thought comes directly from Our Savior, who praised the widow for putting in her two pennies when it was all she had. The spirit of sacrifice used to be strong in the Catholic Church. Unfortunately, it has become weak at the present time, despite the fact that our Church is founded by the One who gave His life in sacrifice for us.

Let us continue to pray for each other!

Father Benedict
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Dear Father Groeschel, Thank God you and your faithful brothers are willing to reach out to us. We are so in need of your words of kindness and wisdom. Sometimes I think I'm an outcast because of the choices I make that I think are morally correct in this society. There used to be an expression " Going to hell in a hand basket". I'm not sure what it meant exactly but I know I'm not going there because you tell me the truth and I feel it inside. Thank God there is a way of hearing and reading it. Recovery is a challenge but knowing that I can offer it up for the souls in purgatory makes it bearable. Concentrate on far you have come since Jan. 11. Having all of you for support is irreplaceable. Love in Christ, - Mary, North Tonawanda, New Tork

Dear Fr. Groeschel, I thank our Dear Lord for allowing you to remain with us. More than likely, you have no idea how much you mean to those of us who love you and treasure the teaching and guidance we have been so blessed to receive from you. Your programs are running on EWTN and I watch them over and over, always gleaning more. You have given me and others like me so very much: encouragement, assurance, direction, admonition, and hope -- and all with great love and gentleness. For this we are most grateful; to you for you efforts and generosity, and to the Loving Father who sent you. I will continue to pray for your recovery and your work. The idea of keeping an open channel via this website is exciting -- a lot of extra work for some, no doubt; but a source of encouragement (and how very much we need that!) for many. I pray that God will continue to bless us with your presence and help for many more years. With love and thanks, - Rebecca, Staunton, Virginia

Fr. Benedict and Fr. Glenn - Good morning. You and your staff have my sincere thanks for the tireless efforts in maintaining this site. (Fr. Glenn - it was nice to see you on the most recent clip!) In regards to the issue of demonstrating proper reverence at Mass, both in posture/behavior and clothing/attire, would it too forward to suggest to each parocial vicar that such matters be made part of the CCD program, particularly for those receiving First Holy Communion, and perhaps even for those receiving Confirmation? It may be that it will take the conduct of the young (7 to 17) to influence the attitude of the... older (27 to 57). Only rare instances occur of such violations by people in the "senior citizen" age bracket (67 to 97) at the church my family attends. Also, congratulations for each and every "conversion" you've facilitated, simply by being your devoted selves, demonstrated by the witness you've given over the past six months. -David, Norwood, Mass.

Dear Father Groeschel, I am so happy to hear you are getting better, my prayers are with you and I ask for yours.
I am from Jersey City too, All Saints in Laffette, closed in the 70's. I wish to ask that you keep up the news letter and video, we really need good preachers these days, people complain about preaching in their churches. I pray that God will send us men like your community. I pray that God will bring you back to EWTN but in prime time. God bless you always, - Jim, Ludlow, Maryland

Send your greetings to Fr. Benedict

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