2016 ANNUAL YEARBOOKCelebrating Our 52nd Year |1964 – 2017

Men of the Sacred Hearts

2016 Annual Yearbook Table of Contents

Archbishop Allen Vigneron letter to us all ............................................................................................................ 3

Rev. Roman Pasieczny, Spiritual Director Letter ................................................................................................... 5

List of the Men of the Sacred Hearts ...................................................................................................................... 7

Men of the Sacred Hearts 2016 Accomplishments ............................................................................................... 9

Including Personal Intentions Lifts Others in Prayer ...........................................................................................11

You are not in this alone ........................................................................................................................................13

Consoling the Heart of Jesus .................................................................................................................................15

Become a Hearts Lifted in Prayer Day member ..................................................................................................17

Holy Family School Enthronement .......................................................................................................................19

The two-way gift of Home Enthronement .............................................................................................................21

I remember ...............................................................................................................................................................23

It’s up to you .............................................................................................................................................................25

Just another day ......................................................................................................................................................27

Why do we use our image and You were called ................................................................................................ 30

St. Mary McCormick Enthronement ......................................................................................................................31

Their lack of faith ................................................................................................................................................... 33

Our Lady of Good Council School Enthronement ............................................................................................. 35

A girl’s diamond ring ..............................................................................................................................................37

Sara’s story .............................................................................................................................................................. 39

Senior Citizen Crushed ...........................................................................................................................................41

The iNVICTUS Christus Transformation ................................................................................................................43

The Family is the Battlefield in a Great Spiritual War..........................................................................................45

St. Edward on the Lake Parish ...............................................................................................................................47

The Greatest Medicine ............................................................................................................................................49

The Redford .............................................................................................................................................................51

Truth and Forgiveness .............................................................................................................................................53

Pray for others .........................................................................................................................................................55

Who Am I? ...............................................................................................................................................................57

Men of the Sacred Hearts

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The Men of the Sacred Hearts and your Families, Friends and Patrons

Look at our Lord as an infant in the manger; think how He came down to save us! Hasten to meet

Him; He comes to teach us the ways of truth, peace and love. The light of divine love pierces the

darkness of the world; for it is written, that the darkness can never overcome the light.

The true discovery of Christ leads us to be witnesses to Christ by our words and actions.

There are those that think religion is a “private matter”. Clearly, this is not the message of

Christ. When the Magi discovered the Christ Child they were deeply affected. They learned

more about themselves, their faith and their abilities. Like the Magi, we too, can foster

change, which is the work of God’s grace. “Anyone who has discovered Christ must lead

others to Him. A great joy cannot be kept to oneself. It has to be passed on.” [Emeritus Pope

Benedict XVI]

The Men of the Sacred Hearts are true disciples of this mission. I was overwhelmed when I

looked at the list of their accomplishments from 2016! There were several schools (including

St. Lawrence) and parishes “enthroned” to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart

of Mary. The statue of Our Lady of Fatima visited countless homes, bringing families and

neighbors together to pray the Rosary. These two events alone have “passed on” the great

joy of Jesus and Mary to thousands of people.

The Year of Mercy has concluded. What a great year this has been. Thanks be to God that Pope

Francis inaugurated this Jubilee which kept us constantly aware of our Lord’s Divine Mercy.

During this Jubilee Year of Mercy, I’ve experienced so many opportunities to recognize a

fundamental truth: Mercy is about opening our hearts and minds to accept and love others,

rather than judge them. Pope Francis emphasizes: “Mercy is always the appropriate response

for a Christian.” Mercy is a way of life, and our best hope of changing the world.

Let us allow the joy of Christmas to penetrate our souls. Going forward we persevere in our

prayer and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary, hoping for

the power and strength to continue building up the Kingdom of God. We anticipate the New

Year 2017 with hearts lifted in gratitude to the Almighty, Merciful God being especially

mindful of His Greatest Gift to humanity – that of His Son Jesus, Savior of the world.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Rev. Roman Pasieczny

A Message from

Rev. Roman Pasieczny; Spiritual Director of

The Men of the Sacred Hearts

Glory to God in the highest!

For a child is born to us, a son is given us;

upon his shoulder dominion rests.

They name him Wonder-Counselor,

God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.

[Isaiah 9:5]

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Luis Aguirre

Raymond Allain

Michael Allison

Juan & Mely Arredondo

Anita Altawan

Lisa Ashman

Amer Bahri

Mike Bailey

Leonard Bartold

Thomas Bartold

Larry Belczak

Sean & Kelly Bingham

Brian & Kelly Boda

Celia Boryski

Jon Boutorwick

Jack & Jo Ann Brinkman

Tony Brinkman

Daniel Brown

Kevin Brys

Ariel Bunag

Tom Caporuscio

Robert Cella

Scott Chaney

Jack Charrette

Daniel Corcoran

Jack Coury

Owen Dailey

Jason Daoud

LeAnn Decker

Duke DeLong

Patrick Devine

Alfredo Dinverno

Gary Dolland

Max Effort

Andy Emond

Kenneth Evans

Dan Fader

Anthony Fanelli

Sadeer Farjo

Raymond Farrar

John Fitzmaurice

Alberto & Darly Flores

Andrew Fulgenzi

Tom Furnari

Maria Goatley

Derick Grembi

Jason Grembi

Walter Grence

Paul Grivas

Fr. Mario Haby

Stefano & Ilean Hajgato

Greg Harris

Larry Hearn

Cesar Helou

Richard Herbert

Edward Herman

John Higgins

Kevin Higgins

Rob Holihan

Dan Hollerud

Doug Iudiciani

Rod Jabbori

Andrew Kassab

Jerry Kelly

Raymond Kettel

Deborah Kinast

Frank Koltuniak

Greg Kowalsky

Dennis Kulaszewski

Russell Larocca

Dennis Lemanski

Ray Leone

Gil Liller

Anthony Locricchio

Joe Lograsso

Fred Lopiccolo

John LoVasco

Michael Lovell

Tito & Luz Maria Magareno

Mathew Martino

Ligia Mata

Michal Matysek

George Mejaly

Phil Mikula

Gerry Miller

John Misuraca

John Modetz

James Mollicone

Joseph Monte

Thomas L. Mulcahy

Basil Nafsu

Mike Novak

Maria Nunez

Dan O’Brien

Ryan Orlosky

Anna Maria Ospina

David Oster

Jim Palazzolo

Greg Paige

Tony Paris

Dominic Pizzo

Anna Pompeo

Sean Powers

Sonya Rivera

Michael Saigh

Paul Saigh

Richard Saigh

Fred Sanscrainte

David Sauve

Kerry Schaeffner

Paul Schmidt

Robert Sedlak

Clifford Simmons

Gary Skarb

Paul Spindler

Joseph St. John

Walt Stanlonis

Jeff Synor

David Tay

Jim Thompson

Amar Toma

John Trupiano

Carl Turek

Gerry Ulewicz

Tom Ulrich

Steve Vitale

Scott Wanagat

Jerome Welsing

Stan Wencley

Craig Wesner

Don White

John & Alice Whittemore

Jim Wilder

Shannon Wygant

Lawrence & Grace Zielinski

David Ziskie

Men of the Sacred Hearts

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Men of the Sacred Hearts Michigan Chapter Accomplishments 2016

• January 8: Enthroned St. Lawrence School (Utica). (Fr. Roman Pasieczny blessed each student, teacher and classroom along with a framed image of the Sacred Hearts to be displayed in each classroom.

• January 15: Enthroned St. Mary McCormick School (Port Huron). Deacon and Principal John Fitzmaurice blessed each student, teacher and classroom along with a framed image of the Sacred Hearts to be displayed in each classroom.

• February 3: Enthroned Austin High School. Father Roman (Spiritual Director) blessed each student, teacher and classroom along with a framed image of the Sacred Hearts to be displayed in each classroom.

• February 6: Planned and held joint retreat with Servants of Jesus Devine Mercy at their center in Clinton Township.

• February 17: Approved and picked up the 2015 Yearbook from Allied Printing. This 62-page full color magazine is our second effort at the magazine style book recording our events for the calendar year.

• March 7: Catholic Legacy TV interviews Tom Caporuscio about what it means to be a member of the Men of the Sacred Hearts.

• March 11: Holy Trinity Apostolate at Ss Cyril and Methodius exhibit our information to attendee’s• April 4: Enthroned Mary’s Mantel for expecting mothers. • April 13: Austin meeting discussing setting up high school teams to enthrone the students homes with

an adult mentor. • April 14: St. Denis Parish Enthronement Meeting (Lexington) with staff and sisters. • April 21: Meeting with Director Joe Monte for Newsletter and Social Communications with MOSH

members and clients. • April 27: Set up Catholic Legacy TV film interview with family who had home enthroned. Film to be used

on Catholic Legacy Ch. 38 TV spot as well as MOSH website. • April 28: MOSH Social Committee hammers out draft for Redford Theater October 23 showing the 1952

classic The Miracle of Our Lady of Fatima film. • April 29: Friday/Saturday offsite Board Meeting in Yale to finalize Redford Theater program and to

discuss recent volunteer reductions. • May 3 and May 16: Meeting with Msgr. Mike at St. Andrews and Kim Meyers to discuss fall enthronement

of the largest Catholic School in Michigan (850 children), Holy Family Regional School. The two campuses will be done on two separate days in the fall.

• May 17: Meeting at St. Edward on the Lake to discuss June 3 Enthronement of the church and September 9, 2016 enthronement of the school with 90 children.

• June 13: created Executive Directors Round Table with Mary’s Mantle and Servants of Jesus Divine Mercy Executive Directors to share ideas on how to help each other.

• July: October work on The Miracle of Fatima movie promotion in the AOD of the movie at the Redford theater. Printed posters and tri: fold brochures. Connected with over 150 parishes who put the notice of the movie in their bulletin.

• August 3: resourced supply of photo frames used in home enthronement. • September 14: begin the official translation from English to Chaldean of the home enthronement book. • November 1: Enthroned Our Lady of Good Counsel School in Plymouth, Mi • November 15: printed Christmas Cards to send to all teams and people in our database (5,000)

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Believe me, I’m not special. But believe me, I have been told by Blessed Mother that I need to pass this information on. My team tripped over this process several times before we began to pay attention to what was happening. We were going along praying the Holy Rosary for the end of abortion, war, terrorism, and Aunt Lucy’s gout.

One day, we made a prayer intention before a decade of the Rosary, and the response was so emotional that we began to take notice of what we were doing. The man who made the intention had no real memory of why these words came out of his mouth, but it may have saved a marriage. At another time, the intention brought a prayer from a teen who was in trouble. Then there was the child who prayed that the working mother would pay more attention to her because she needed to talk to Mommy. Both parents had high pressure jobs. It seems that when we put ourselves into the hands of the Holy Spirit, we get messages on what to pray for in each family situation.

Thinking these experiences should be shared with others, I suggested this to the Columbus, Ohio Chapter President in a meeting, and he tried it receiving the same results. His response was that his team was not prepared for the emotional outpouring of thanks for bringing it up. Thus I feel the need to share these experiences with you as you will be instantly rewarded with a warm feeling that you just did something really special for another person. You see, your reward is helping individuals to bring to prayer a situation or condition where Our Lord will intervene for them.

Not every home receives this blessing. We have noticed when a family or individual is in need and is open to praying for help, it works. When there is no real interest in praying for a solution, then it is just a nice Holy Rosary with the Men of the Sacred Hearts.

The way it works is that you instruct the family that they must pray for each other in this ceremony. Encourage each person to pray for one person in the family by name and with a specific understandable prayer request. If they do it, praise the person. If they don’t, then let it be until the end. Then ask them to do it during the week when you and the team are not present to hear the prayers. You begin with a member who you (or the Holy Spirit) feel are in need of prayer. If you are open to taking direction from the Holy Spirit, the words will come to you. Just ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Try this approach with your next enthronement and you will find the experience to be most rewarding. Let me know what your experience is so we can share it with the others.

From the Morning Offering to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

“O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you all of my prayers, works, and joys of sufferings of this day...”

Including Personal Intentions Lifts Others in Prayer

Congratulations to the Men of the Sacred Hearts for 52 years.

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He attacks in the early morning, mid-day, evening and late at night. He attacks when I’m alone and when I’m with friends. His normal method is to start with a trickle of thought, just enough to throw you off your game.

Sometimes it is in the form of judging a person you are with or someone you see whom you may not even know. Sometimes it is an evil thought about someone you are with or see from a distance. Sometimes it is an uncharitable comment you

make without thinking and sometimes it is a time when you remained silent when you should have

said something.

The Blessed Mother and Her Son are always with us to resist sinful thoughts and bad intentions, if we only call on them before the harmful trickle of thought becomes a flowing river. Now, how do I get the Dynamic Duo to work

100% of the time? Just call on them for help.

You Are Not in This Alone! by Bob B.

Congratulations to the Men of the Sacred Hearts for 52 years.

Technical Logistic Corporation28035 Beverly RoadRomulus, MI 48174www.tlcwaste.com

Office: 313.299.4388Cell: 313.215.6598Fax: 313.299.4392Email: jmansfield@tlcwaste.com

JEFFREY M. MANSFIELDPresident

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Consoling the Heart of Jesus

We begin a new day. Somewhere along the way, we commit our first sin: maybe a lie or an uncharitable comment about the careless driver in rush hour traffic….see how easy it is? Maybe we yell at someone during the work day, or cheat on a contract to seek more profit for you or the company. Sin happens.

By his passion and death Jesus willingly sacrificed himself to pay the debt we could not pay for our sins. Can you imagine what torment Jesus felt on Holy Thursday as he reflected on what lay ahead of him in his human body?

This photo is similar to the whip the Romans used on Our Lord.

Note those flesh-tearing metal knobs on the end of each strap.

Imagine this: Jesus climbs back on the cross each day to pay for the sins that we heaped on his back in the past 24 hours. I find thinking about Jesus taking the heat for my sins on a daily basis a good way to stay on the path to being a better me.

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Become a Hearts Lifted in Prayer Day Member

The Michigan Chapter of the Men of the Sacred Hearts (MSH) has formed a new prayer group, Hearts Lifted in Prayer Day (HLIPD). The members of this group pray on scheduled days throughout the year, responding to prayer requests received by MSH. The need is tremendous. We continually receive requests for prayer, many of them critical in nature, such as people who have lost jobs, people suffering from addiction, cancer victims, upcoming surgeries, people who have left the church and many others. We also lift-up in prayer those who have contributed to the Men of the Sacred Hearts with their talents or treasure and especially the priests and religious who support us. We pray for them in thanksgiving and in supplication for their personal needs. We prayerfully ask you to consider joining us in this beautiful mission of mercy.

For many of our members, the format of prayers for the scheduled day are ones you are already doing. As such, we are not so much asking you to increase your spiritual prayer life, but to channel the prayers on your scheduled day for this great mission. The member’s scheduled day of prayer includes the following acts of prayer: Holy Mass, Chaplet of Divine Mercy, Rosary, 15 minutes in Eucharistic Adoration and the uniting of their good works of the day with

the Morning offering. We encourage the members to include their own intentions with the Morning Offering as well. Prayer intentions are sent to each team member in the morning offering prayer.

The members are free to attend the parish of their choice, at a time that is convenient for them. They are also free to pray the Chaplet and Rosary anytime in the day. Regarding adoration, this may be done either during Eucharistic exposition or by praying in front of the tabernacle.

The mission of the Men of the Sacred Hearts is primarily to share the great graces God offers us through the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary for the needs of the world. It is primarily through prayer that we achieve this mission. Will you help us with this noble objective? As we noted above, for many of our members, the day of prayer will leverage spiritual practices already being observed in full or in part. If by providence, joining this group requires you to increase your spiritual works, then we ask you to prayerfully consider this an opportunity to help us increase the graces we are offering for those in need. May the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary guide you in your consideration to join us. For more information or to join Hearts Lifted in Prayer Day, please contact us at the information below. Thank you and God Bless you.

David Tay dtay@menofthesacredhearts.org | 248-330-9533

Ray Kettel rpkettel@umich.edu | 313-882-9798

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Friday began overcast and looking like rain. Heavy rain. The plan was for the North Campus K-3 children to walk 100 yards from school to St. Andrew’s Church for the prayers, then back to school. If it was raining, it would be a wet walk for the children.

Holy Family Regional School was started in September of 1980 after St. Andrew’s closed its

parish school due to financial reasons in 1971. The parents of St. Andrew’s wanted to reopen the school, but there was resistance from the parish which was focused on building a social hall.

After some serious discussions with the Archdiocese of Detroit and St. Irenaeus and St. John Fisher, the school was declared a Regional School. The beginning enrollment was 128 students whose brave parents chose to skip the “award winning Rochester Schools” and take a chance on a new Catholic school with new teachers. Today, with 913 students on two campuses, Holy Family Regional School is the largest Catholic school in Michigan. The parents and alumni built the state of the art South Campus to house the 4 th-8th grades in 2001.

The Program

Msgr. Mike, pastor of St. Andrew’s Parish, along with Jon Myers, who is the principal of Holy Family School, and his wife Kim, who is the Director of Campus Ministry, met with me to lay out the program. Kim and I had met in May to put some ideas together as we would be enthroning the two campuses. With Msgr. Mike’s guidance, we finalized the plan to Enthrone the Sacred Heart of Jesus at the North Campus (grades K-3) at 10 am, Friday, August 9th, and the South Campus at 2:30 pm in the afternoon.

The children filed into the church with hands held in the pray position, and were amazingly quiet for little ones. Funny how the little boys’ shirts were already mostly untucked, and some of the little girls’ pony tails had lost their neat look. Mrs. Myers opened with the explanation of what we were doing and why Jesus was going to be the head of Holy Family Regional School. The children participated with prayers, and then Msgr. Mike blessed the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Mr. Myers as the principal lead the procession back across the parking lot carrying the image to the school where a special place had been prepared to allow Jesus and His Mother to watch the children in the hall. The heavy clouds held their moisture so no one got wet.

At 2:30 pm, the older 4th-8th graders filled St. Mary’s that is next to the new South Campus. Again Msgr. Mike led the prayer intentions with participation from the children. After the blessing of the image, the children filed out and created a double line from St. Mary’s to the Holy Family South Campus.

Then Mr. Myers lead the procession with the image from St. Mary’s to the school so that each child had the opportunity to bless themselves as we walked by. The children were quiet and respectful. The image was then placed in the special area near the cafeteria for all to venerate.

We thank Msgr. Michael Hrydziuszko for his leadership and help in preparing for this beautiful Enthronement of the Sacred Hearts. We also gratefully acknowledge Mr. Jon Myers for his cooperation and assistance in this campus-wide event. Kim Myers provided the content and process while having just suffered a broken elbow two days prior. She nevertheless smiled and “carried on” as our British friends would say.

Holy Family Regional School Enthronement

Congratulations to Men of the Sacred Hearts

for 52 years.

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I am humbled by being asked into a stranger’s home to pray. I consider it a great honor to serve them. The people we meet come to us for different reasons. Some have heard about the Men of the Sacred Hearts from others who had their homes Enthroned to His Sacred Heart. Others find us by visiting our website. Their reasons and stories are different, but the honor of bringing the statue of Our Lady of Fatima into a someone’s home doesn’t wear off. In fact, in the 10 years I have been doing this, the feeling has never been stronger than now.

I love the look of wonder from the children when they first see Her. They get excited when we tell

them that Mom and Dad can take Our Lady to their room at night for a “sleep over”. Appealing to younger people is one of our objectives. What better way is there to begin, than having Our Mother spend time with the children.

It becomes more humbling when someone we are visiting offers part of the Holy Rosary we are praying with them in thanksgiving for our visit. It was particularly special when a 10-year-old boy thanked us for showing him that praying the Holy rosary was actually talking with Jesus and Mary, not just reciting a bunch of repetitive words.

In many of the homes there are tears. Some are tears of joy, some of sorrow, and some of pain. These moments were particularly humbling to sit quietly and listen while someone expresses such deep emotional experiences. Part of our ministry is often simply being present and supportive while people regain their composure. In cases like this, it is not only the families that need time to regain their composure, our team is right there with them.

Sharing prayer and these deeply personal experiences often results in new friendships that last well beyond the enthronement period. After 10 years, it is still my great honor and privilege to look forward to each Saturday; knowing that we will help bring another family closer to Our Lord and our Lady through the Men of the Sacred Hearts’ Home Enthronement Ministry.

The Two-Way Gift of Home Enthronement by David Tay

From the Mouths of Babes

Abby, a 9th grade only child, offered this intention: “I pray for forgiveness from my parents. I lash out at my Father who has always been there for me with support, and I argue with my Mother who is only trying to help. I ask forgiveness for the fighting and the anger that starts with me… And God said “Honor thy Mother and Father.”

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I remember when a person lost his job, neighbors would put together a food basket so you did not go hungry. You would talk to your neighborhood bank about your inability to make the home mortgage payment, and terms and agreements would be extended until you got back on your feet.

I remember when people would come together as a community to discuss a problem and reach an agreement that required compromise and working together. There was a decorum that directed social behavior and respecting the other person’s opinion.

I remember my parents and family talking about sacrifice for WWII. Real sacrifice, like no tires for a car, little gasoline (it was rationed), and recycling

tin cans. Every person had a role to play, from the children to the grandparents. It was a total group and community effort.

As our neighborhood, community, state and nation prospered in the 1950’s evil began creeping into our lives. Gradually, we began to bicker with neighbors. Politics became more about power and greed than solving the community or national problems. We turned into an “us verse them” nation.

We matured from well behaved children to raising children who have an entitlement attitude. In the 1950’s, if an adult saw me spit on the sidewalk, the adult that we did not know from two blocks away would march me home to tell my parents what I did, and my parents would be apologetic to the stranger for my lack of manners, and then there would be a smack on my way to my room for the rest of the day. Can you imagine the exchange from parents today to an adult who would dare criticize a child?

For each successive generation, attitudes about how adults behave towards each other have disintegrated. I wonder what national or international crisis would have to take place for us to return to a culture that cared for our neighbors and helped one another out, with no concern for what political party you belonged to.

I Remember…… by a Senior Citizen

Luke 10:27

Jesus said unto him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

JAY BONAHOOM

1340 Winder Detroit, Michigan 48207

(313) 259-7500

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It Is Up To You! by Anonymous Donor

Dawn breaks with light sneaking between the blinds in the bedroom. Another day is opening up like a bloom on a flower, not sure what it looks like yet, or what color it will be, but it shows promise.

The new day offers a new beginning to offer a hand to someone in need. How often I walk or drive by someone asking for help because I’m told these people are panhandlers. Do I know their story?

Once getting off the freeway in Toronto, a young man was holding a ragged hunk of cardboard with the message “please, I have not eaten for days” on it. I had a half pound of peanuts that I liked to munch on while driving and a lonely $20 Canadian

bill. I roll down the window and offer the peanuts to the fellow, he takes them and waiting for something else looks where the money is. I offer an “I’ll pray for you” and go with the green light. I notice he tossed the peanuts into the bushes as I’m turning. I was tempted to go get my peanuts back, but at 4PM traffic in Toronto, no thanks.

A new day to smile at someone who maybe needs a smile. I heard from a high school teacher friend that he seeks out kids who come from deprived homes and says hello to them because in many cases this is the only friendly greeting they will have that day. High school is brutal, this community has both very wealthy and very poor families, the wealthy kids

don’t mix well with the poor, and the poor kids stay isolated. Can you imagine that a 15 year old who no one wants to talk to could be so lonely and rejected that they see no reason to carry on? Do I know anyone like that?

At the store, a tattooed young lady with piercing in her tongue (how do you eat, drink, talk or live with that?) responds to my compliment on her rings with a half smile. What is her life story, and was she happy to greet the new day or was there anger from some event in her childhood?

My friend Sam used to say “Attitude is everything.” You get to decide how you begin the day as well as how you end the day. What I learned the hard way too late in my life is that when I carry anger from some event or wrongdoing, it hurts me most.

After I really turned myself around and paid attention to Jesus and His Mother, my life changed. Suddenly the darkness of doubt and worry turned into the “it is in God’s hands”.

We had a financial issue that was looking bleak, and someone who owed me money from way back gave us a big check, from out of the blue. Never expected it, but my wife and I winked at each other knowing that God had taken care of us.

All this goes to support the FACT that if we put our trust in Jesus, He will give us what we need, when we need it. The old saying that God answers our prayers with “yes, no and not now” is so true. Why did that substantial amount of money get repaid when it did? Because God knew we needed it, at that time, not a month earlier or later.

Today is a new day. Trust in Our Lord to give us what He knows we need, and hold back on what we think we want.

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Just Another Day

It is Saturday morning and I’m staring into my coffee cup, wondering what this day will bring. The team is meeting at a Big Boy’s parking lot to catch up on each other’s news. Only six of us are working today, as some are still out of town for the Thanksgiving weekend. We decide that we can make it in two cars instead of three…. the first big decision of the day.

Our first house of the day is a family we are visiting for the second time. Since we were there two weeks ago, we know that the homeowner’s father was in the hospital with very serious dementia and near

death. When I confirmed the appointment, the homeowner told me that she may be the only one there due to her father still being in the hospital and family being with him.

When we arrived at the house we found many cars present. As the six of us walked up the steps, the homeowner met us at the door with a happy smile and greeting. She informed us that: “we have some others who want to pray with us this morning”. The

living room was filled with friends, along with the daughter of the homeowner and her boyfriend.

After introductions and some small talk, the homeowner shared with us the events leading up to the death of her father. She began by explaining that they believed Our Lady’s presence in their home was responsible for special graces their family experienced in his passing. She explained that prior to passing away, her father came out of his comma like state and carried on a 4-hour conversation with his wife and family. During those four hours, he was totally lucid and showed no trace of the dementia

that had stricken him a year ago. The family saw this as a miracle because his dementia had gotten so bad that he did not recognize some of the family members. She went on to explain that despite being hospitalized, her father had a healthy heart, however, shortly after being with the family, he had a sudden heart attack and died. The family believed the 4 hours of time with their father being himself, without the dementia, was a gift from God. They credited the gift to the enthronement of their home.

Congratulations to Men of the Sacred Hearts

for 52 years.

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Matt 25:35

“For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in;”

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While the neighbors came to the home to pray in thanksgiving for the 4-hour gift, they had their own prayer needs. They were in the process of adopting two girls, one who was with them at the home. We were also joined by the foster mother who was caring for the child in the interim. The adorable 9-year-old was eager to help say the Holy Rosary and offer prayer intentions for the family who had lost their dad. I still find it amazing that children who themselves are in need find room in their hearts to pray for others.

One of our men felt prompted to pray that the bureaucracy of adoption be put aside so the 9-year-old could start her second life with a new family. At this the foster mother of the little girl and the soon to be adoptive parents broke out in tears. Unbeknownst to us, the government was putting up roadblocks and this prayer was just what was needed.

There were more tears and laughter as we began to discuss the passing of the homeowner’s father. At the end, the family showed their deep appreciation with many hugs. We were especially moved by the emotional hugs of the little girl who wanted to be adopted. We left the first home almost exhausted from the crying and laughing. That was more than enough for one day, but we were not done. We still had another home to visit.

We arrived at the next home with little time to compose ourselves. We arrived to another packed house and began the Preparation Ceremony of bringing the statue to the home. The devotion to Blessed Mother begins with incense and candles to set a reverent devotional mood. But this was a home owned by a Chaldean family with a deep passion

for their faith, so they were well prepared for devotion to Our Lady. When we visit Chaldean families, we know the prayers are going to be heartfelt. The house was filled with 20 women. Our team likes to ask the Chaldean’s to say the Holy Rosary in their native language. As the rosary is being recited, more women arrived brining platters and bowls of food to celebrate. They quickly put the food in the kitchen and joined the rosary.

At the end of the ceremony, the hostess invites us to stay for what was supposed to be a little snack. By the time we left, we estimated that about 50 women had joined in the prayers. With 50 women bringing food, the little snack turned into a feast fit for a king.

We watched from the dining room in amazement while about 25 women in a kitchen served the food. Then after everyone ate, they swooped in and put the food away. One would open a cupboard door and take out a storage bowl, hand it to another, who would hold it while yet another scooped the food into the bowl. Then the counter tops were washed down and the desert ladies stepped into action. It was like watching a well choreographed dance.

One of the women wanted a photo, but only about half of the woman could join us because the other half of the ladies were preparing the food in the kitchen. As it turned out, the ladies in the picture were the desert team that would swap out with the meal team once they were done cooking and serving the meal. We began eating at 2:00 and ended at 3:30. To those who have the good fortune of experiencing Chaldean hospitality, you know how wonderful the food and company is.

Just Another Day (continued)

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Why Do We Use an Image with Both Jesus and Blessed Mother?

When our founder Mr. John LoVasco began this ministry in 1954, he had problems getting people to sign up for a home enthronement. John spoke to Father Francis Larkin who was the assistant to Father Mateo, and Fr. Larkin told Mr. LoVasco to go find a 3ft tall statue of Our Lady of Fatima to bring to the homes, because where Blessed Mother went, Jesus would follow.

John found a statue in a local Catholic book store who in fact owned the mold for what is now our 3ft tall Our Lady of Fatima statue. True to his word, when John offered to have Our Lady of Fatima visit the families requesting the Enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the requests flowed in.

Today, we have over 40 statues being brought to homes by over 150 volunteers.

You Were Called by “A Team”

You were called, invited, encouraged or in my case dragged along to your first Enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in a stranger’s home.

Some of you are eager and excited to go out doing Our Lord’s work (yes, it is the work of the Lord when you minister to His flock).

The door opens, and you are welcomed into the stranger’s home. The little children flock around the parents to stare at the strangers entering their home with a huge statue of Our Lady of Fatima. Dogs come to sniff the strangers clothing or begin barking while cats just leave the room.

There is discussion on where to set Our Lady up, and the team springs into action passing out books and rosaries for those who do not have any. Chairs may be needed for guests who are present, and are brought from other rooms.

Introductions are exchanged, clearing the way of who knows whose Aunt or neighbor who may have

had the enthronement before. Then the what parish do you belong to gets aired.

Finally, all are seated and the leader begins by explaining what is going to happen on this important day in the Preparation Ceremony for the Enthronement of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. There is anticipation in the room, an excitement for the expectation of good things to come.

The leader explains that the Men of the Sacred Hearts are there to facilitate the ceremony, the family will be the leaders for the Holy Rosary as they are the ones inviting Jesus Christ to be the head of their family and home.

The leader has one of the team members explain why the 12 Promises are part of the ceremony. Then the 12 Promises are read, and the ceremony begins.

As we begin as strangers in the home, we leave as friends. This is what happens when you bring a family closer to Jesus and His Mom.

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Father Zbigniew Zomerfeld, Pastor of St. Mary’s blessing the classroom images, teacher and students of the school.

Deacon John Blesses the image and reads the Enthronement promises with assistance of two 7th graders.

St. Mary McCormick Catholic School Enthroned to the Sacred Heart of Jesus January 15, 2016

Deacon John Fitzmaurice, Principal processing the School Image of our Lord Jesus down the main isle at St. Mary’s

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Remember in Luke 4: 16-30 where Jesus returns to His own temple to teach, and runs into trouble?

I often wondered why the passage from Isaiah (Is 61: 1-2) that Jesus choose to read would make his home town people want to kill him. As usual in Scripture, there is the obvious reason, then there is a much deeper reason.

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives

and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God,

to comfort all who mourn.

The obvious reason is that the Jews heard Jesus declared Himself as the Lord. But upon closer examination and study, one finds that there is a deeper meaning than the obvious. John Bergsma writes in his book “New Testament Basics for Catholics” that a Jubilee Year was a celebration every fifty years where all slaves were released and all sold property was returned to the owner. He continues with review that from the Dead Sea Scrolls we now know most Jews were expecting Melchizedek to return and announce the Jubilee Year.

This Melchizedek was king of Salem and a priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him, and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, the name Melchizedek means “king of righteousness”; then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.” Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever. ...

So when the carpenter’s son steps into the temple and sits in the chair to teach Isaiah 61: 1-2, the older Jews react in a negative way. Here was Joseph’s son, a teacher traveling around curing people, but surely He was not God!

Scripture tells us that Jesus was not able to perform any miracles because the home town folks just could not believe that the son of Mary and Jesus was that great of a person. Because of their lack of faith, no great miracles could be witnessed by his home town people.

The Men of the Sacred Hearts boldly challenge our families or friends when we go out with the statue and help families Enthrone the Sacred Heart of Jesus in homes, organizations and schools. Who are we to think we can represent Our Lord?

We are Consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Fr. Roman Pasieczny did this at St. Martin de Porres in 2013 for most of us) and we are challenged to go and spread the word (Matt.5:14). Be proud of wearing your red shirt with our logo, and go ask your neighbor if you can bring Mary your Mother over for a week or so.

Their Lack of Faith

Norman and Maryann

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The plan was made at the end of summer with the principal John Czaplicki and Joseph Jeffery who is the Director of Campus Ministry. The date was set for November 1, All Saints Day following Halloween. The day promised temperatures into the 70s, and sunny skies.

The school ordered the buses to transport the students from the OLGC school that is attached to the original church to the new church at North Territorial Road and Beck in Plymouth. The ceremony had to begin at 9:15AM Holy Mass as it was a Holy Day of Obligation and the school did not have a room big enough to hold all the students.

Departing the north end of Rochester Hills at 7:30AM, I figured that surely I would have no problem getting to church in time to connect with John Czaplicki and Joe Jeffery to offer any assistance that may be needed.

First problem, the Michigan 5 Haggerty Connector to I-275 became an instant parking lot. No announcement on the radio, just me and hundreds of my new friends trying to figure out how to move in the solid mass of vehicles.

But then our Man of the Sacred Hearts in Plymouth Sean Bingham called me to ask where was I at the OLGC church (this place is big). I advise my current status, and we agree if I don’t make it, that he will have to help where needed.

But then Sean calls back and advises the Fr. John Riccardo just made an announcement at 9AM that the school buses never showed up at the school, so the school Holy Mass would be at 11AM at the school. I wondered how that could be as the school had no room for an all school Holy Mass?

Not to be turned away by what the day was serving up, the school held Holy Mass in the parking lot. The kindergartners through 8th grade simply sat on the warm parking lot. Thanks to God that it was warm and not raining.

After Holy Mass the kids had lunch, then at 1:15PM, we began blessing each picture of the Sacred Hearts, each teacher, all of the students, and each classroom. Deacon Dave Carignan assisted by Mr. C and Mr. Jeffery (the Holy Water boy) went into each room and explained the purpose of the blessing they have just received.

Don’t the kids look great?

Our Lady of Good Council School Enthronement by David Tay

Principal John Czaplicki with children.

Deacon blessing he kids, teacher, room and image for the room.

Joe Jeffery with Image in main hall.

In Loving Memory ofJohn T. Adamo Jr. and Anthony Mastromatteo

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With love, Pat and Lisa Leavy

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Jason Evert

“Without question, purity is beautiful. We’re not talking about repression or prudishness, but about having a confident and serene sense of your dignity and worth.”

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A Girl’s Diamond Ring

We began a girl’s diamond ring program two years ago when one of our teams had a twin hearts diamond chipped ring with box in a donation basket, and no one knew where it came from at the home the team was visiting.

The story appeared in the 2015 Yearbook, but in summary one senior in high school stood up with courage and integrity to not join the other young ladies in inappropriate behavior. This young woman was the recipient of the ring we found in the donation basket.

But we told this senior that she would have to give it back after one year so we could find another deserving girl for the ring. She wasn’t willing to give it up. This ring was going to stay on Julie’s finger, period.

With the help of her dad and one of our advertisers, International Diamond Importers, we were going to have the ring duplicated. But Richard Yerant of International Diamond Importers donated the second and third ring because the girls’ stories touched his heart.

The third ring went to Rebecca, here is her testimony.

Our family was very blessed to have our home enthroned to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. To have the Men of the Sacred Hearts come to our home was truly an incredible experience not only for me, but my whole family. During the two weeks that the statue of Our Lady of Fatima stayed in our house, our home was full of peace and comfort. The presence of the statue was a constant reminder that the Blessed Mother is always there for us and that we can call on her to pray for us to her son Jesus. Having the statue here for two weeks helped our family to form a more consistent prayer life. We began saying the rosary more often. We were also able to be more open with our intentions and learned to pray for not only our friends, but also for each other.

I am very grateful for this privilege and I pray that more families will also be able to experience this great opportunity.

Richard Yerant with the ring

Congratulations to Men of the Sacred Hearts

for 52 years.

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Last fall, after being home schooled for five years, I began my sophomore year at a public high school, mainly so I could become involved in the school’s theatre program. Since I was very young I’ve loved performing and have always dreamed of someday working professionally as an actor on Broadway. Although I’m naturally a quiet person, I’ve always pushed myself to take as many acting classes, dance lessons, and singing lessons as possible to better myself as a performer. Despite my efforts, every time I auditioned for a show I seemed to get only a tiny part in the ensemble.

When the spring play auditions came around at school, I eagerly began working on the audition material in hopes of finally getting my chance at a leading role. Because my director didn’t announce the title of the play until the day before auditions, I didn’t have time to look into the script. The audition process for this show went well, and I had a good feeling coming home that night. As I waited for the callback list to be posted, I decided to do some research on the play in case I was to be called back the next day.

As I watched clips from the show on YouTube, I was shocked by the immorality depicted in the plot and characters. I immediately approached my mom with my concerns, and together we watched a recording of the play. We both agreed that it was much more scandalous than one

would expect of a high school production. As we were discussing this, I was notified that I was one of six girls to get called back for another audition. Part of me wanted to scream with excitement, and the other part wished I hadn’t been called

back at all. My mom and I took our concerns to prayer and asked Our Lady and St. Therese, my Confirmation Saint, for guidance. We decided that I should go ahead to callbacks the next day and see what happens.

On the way to school that day we prayed again for God’s Will to be done. At callbacks, I did extremely well, but I knew that there were only three girls needed for roles. It wasn’t until the director had me read scenes over and over again with the actor who was going to play the leading man, that I felt sure I would get a part. I should be overjoyed that I was achieving something I had dreamed of for years, but instead I had a sickening feeling in my stomach the whole time. I tried to talk

myself out of what my conscious was telling me: that I had to turn down this role.

Meanwhile, I was texting my mom between scenes, keeping her updated on what was going on. As they released us from the callback audition, I knew that I had to get out of this before the cast list was publicly announced. I texted my mom, “I know I’m going to get this role, but I don’t think it’s right for me to do this show. How can I get out of it now?” She replied, telling me that we were both going to

Sara’s Story

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Sara’s Story (continued)

storm heaven at that same moment, asking for a way out. I decided that the only thing for me to do was to talk to my director and tell him that I have to step down from the show.

To my surprise, before I could even approach him, I heard my name being called. As the other actors filed out of the theatre, I walked up nervously to the director’s table. He told me that he wanted me to play one of the main characters. He asked me if my family and I would be comfortable having me play that kind of role. Thankful for this opportunity to talk to him, I explained to him how I had been talking to my mom about it, and neither one of us felt right about the show, so I would have to decline. I knew that the fact that he called me up personally was a gift from Our Lady, giving me a way out. With tears in my eyes and a pounding heart, I thanked him for being the first director to believe in me, and he graciously assured me that this decision would not affect future roles.

I left the theatre that night with tears streaming down my face. I felt a lightness and peace as if a huge weight had been lifted off my chest. Although it pained me to turn down such an amazing opportunity, I knew that I had done the right thing. This was the first time a production had conflicted with my Catholic Faith, and I knew I had to be strong because if I continue to pursue theatre after college as I plan to do, there will certainly be many more situations like this where I will have to say no to tempting roles in order to follow God’s Will for me. I know that in the end He will only bless me for it, and give me amazing opportunities to do what I love while serving Him.

I am so grateful and honored to receive this beautiful ring. It will be a constant reminder for me to seek God’s Will in my life through the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Thank you so much for thinking of me. I am truly humbled.

JESUS CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR OUR SCHOOL

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Upcoming Retreats:Men’s Conference Retreat March 3 – 5Men’s Conference Retreat March 10 – 12Women’s Conference Retreat March 13Women’s Conference Retreat March 27Men’s Conference Retreat March 31 - April 2

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Senior Citizen Crushed by David Tay

After the Reformation in England, Catholics were rounded up and killed. Being Catholic and practicing your faith back then was a death sentence. Priests were primary targets and often were in hiding due to the Redcoats searching for them in all the villages and towns. Churches were of course closed for the obvious reason that any priest or parishioner caught was martyred on the spot.

However, those who walked before us had strong faith and a will to experience the Eucharist. A priest in hiding would arrange for a midnight meeting of the faithful who could be trusted in a field or the woods. At the appointed time and place, the faithful and the priest would begin the Eucharist Liturgy and Holy Communion would be distributed. Lookouts were posted so that if they saw the dreaded Redcoats

they could hightail it to the meeting place and announce the army was on its way.

It was very normal that a senior citizen would volunteer to change clothes with the priest so if the Redcoats caught them, the priest would melt into the townspeople who showed up the watch and the senior citizen in priest’s clothes would be martyred. Per the records from that time, the poor caught imposter for the priest would be placed between to boards the length of his body, and stones would be slowly piled on until they crushed him to death (who thinks up these punishments?). These forefathers of ours preserved our faith. They are the nameless and faceless, but they saved our Catholic Church from being discarded by the zeal of the Reformation.

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Congratulations for 52 years of

dedication and commitment

The Pirone Family

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I always believed going to mass was enough. I thought to myself “I get up early and take my family to mass every Sunday” or “I make sure my kids practice their faith.” Shouldn’t that be enough when it comes time for my soul to be judged? The answer is clearly NO, or else, I wouldn’t even be writing this. Participating in mass, receiving holy communion, going to regularly confession provided me with the bare minimum essentials that I needed to keep my soul sustained. I barely knew the people who I attended mass with, even after attending that same mass for many years. They were nameless faces who participated along with me, but I hardly considered them brothers and sisters in Christ. And after mass was over we continued on with our normal lives. And through the week of ups and downs, we all had moments of fear, sorrow, anxiety, regret, and doubt that we were forced to face every day. And when those moments arise, how do we react? Any one of these trivial moments can have a lasting impact on our spiritual wellbeing. After time, these moments can even start to re-define what kind of person we are. Christ had moments like this and he offered them

up to God’s plan. What’s stopping us from doing the same?

This group of Catholic men, identifying themselves as iNVICTUS Christus, “the Unconquerable Christ,” has a way of transforming men into something

more, something closer to the image of Jesus. That doesn’t mean that they don’t have moments of fear/sorrow/anxiety/regret/doubt like the rest of us, but they freely lean on Christ and themselves to pick each other up during these trials and share the burden among many. There’s a connection among each and every one of them, united by the Holy Spirit, and it burns four simple words inside their hearts: You are not alone.

I write these words as a testimony to you, in hopes that this resonates deep down in your soul. Not long ago I was a

completely satisfied “Luke-warm” Catholic who thought practicing faith and going to church was enough. But now that this apostolate group has ignited the holy spirit inside of me, I’ve realized that I have a lot more to complete in this life before my judgement day arrives.

The iNVICTUS Christus Transformation A personal testimony by Owen Dailey

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Why should Catholics in particular be concerned about the recent Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage? Does this have any significance to the plotline of the human story?

Here I must issue a spoiler alert: stop reading now if you don’t want to know what happens at the end.

In 2008, after offering Holy Mass at the tomb of Padre Pio, Cardinal Carlo Caffarra was asked about the spiritual warfare over the battleground of the family.

In his day, Cardinal Caffarra was founding President of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, and was closely involved with the preparation of Familiaris Consortio, Pope St. John Paul II’s prophetic apostolic exhortation on the family.

Here’s what the Italian cardinal said in his interview:

Q. There is a prophecy by Sister Lucia dos Santos, of Fatima, which concerns “the final battle between the Lord and the kingdom of Satan”. The battlefield is the family. Life and the family. We know that you were given charge by John Paul II to plan and establish the Pontifical Institute for the Studies on Marriage and the Family.

A. Yes, I was. At the start of this work entrusted to me by the Servant of God John Paul II, I wrote to Sister Lucia of Fatima through her Bishop as I couldn’t do so directly.

Unexplainably however, since I didn’t expect an answer, seeing that I had only asked for prayers, I received a very long letter with her signature – now in the Institute’s archives. In it we find written: the final battle between the Lord and the reign of Satan will be about marriage and the family. Don’t be afraid, she added, because anyone who works for the sanctity of marriage and the family will always be fought and opposed in every way, because this is the decisive issue. And then she concluded: however, Our Lady has already crushed its head.

Talking also to John Paul II, you felt too that this was the crux, as it touches the very pillar of creation, the truth of the relationship between man and woman among the generations. If the founding pillar is touched the entire building collapses and we see this now, because we are at this point and we know it. And I’m moved when I read the best biographies of Padre Pio, on how this man was so attentive to the sanctity of marriage and the sanctity of the spouses, even with justifiable rigor on occasion.

This episode suggests strongly that the Supreme Court’s decision might be read through a lens of a dramatic spiritual warfare, with the family, as traditionally understood, firmly in the center of the battle.

The then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio said as much in his now famous letter to the Carmelites of Argentina. Ahead of a 2010 initiative to make of Argentina the first Latin American country to introduce same-sex legislation, which eventually passed, he warned:

Let us not be naive: it is not a simple political struggle; it is an intention [which is] destructive of the plan of God. It is not a mere legislative project (this is a mere instrument), but rather a ‘move’ of the father of lies who wishes to confuse and deceive the children of God.

Now that the author of those words is Supreme Pontiff, he is in the unique position to be able to guide Catholics through what some commentators are already saying will be the beginning of a new Western persecution of Christians.

The Family is the Battlefield in a Great Spiritual War by Benjamin Harnwell

Congratulations to the Men of the Sacred Hearts

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St. Josemaria Escriva

I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled. (Luke 12:29) We have approached the fire of the love of God. Let us allow that fire to burn our lives. Let us feed the desire to spread that divine fire throughout the world, making it known to all the people around us. They too can experience the peace of Christ and find happiness there. A Christian who lives united to Christ’s heart can have no goals but these: peace in society, peace in the Church, peace in his soul, the peace of God which will reach its climax when his kingdom comes.

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St. Edward on the Lake Parish

June 11, 2016, Father Lee Acervo; Pastor of St. Edward on the Lake in Lakeport (North of Port Huron) Enthroned the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the parish at the 5PM Saturday night Holy Mass. Board members Raymond Kettle (left), Kerry Schaeffner, Walter Grence and David Tay along with their wives attended and supported Fr. Lee.

This small community supports a Catholic grade school that Enthroned the Sacred Heart of Jesus on September 9, 2016 at 8AM.

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The Greatest Medicine by Reta H.

It all started when I moved to a new house had difficulty sleeping for several months. I saw my family doctor and a sleep doctor, who prescribed some sleeping medication but nothing worked. I needed more help.

I searched online and came across the Men of Sacred Hearts and I requested the Mother Mary statue to come and bless our new home. The team that came was awesome. They asked me to pray every day for relief from my sleep problem.

So every day I would pray and pray for help. One day I was so tired of my situation I asked Mother Mary to please help me sleep I can’t take it anymore let me sleep on your chest peacefully.

That night I slept and in my dream a man asked me if I ever needed a change in the fireplace tiles in the area where the Mother Mary statue was placed.

He wore white clothing and told me to go upstairs to sleep.

While I was going up the stairs I asked “I will sleep?”; he replied yes you will sleep and you will sleep peacefully.

As I laid on our bed he covered me and placed newborn clothing on my stomach and was writing some things. The Men of the Sacred Hearts asked if I was pregnant, and I assured them that I was not…. yet.

Now every morning I wake up and look up at the sky with a smile and say thank you Lord Jesus, thank you Mother Mary for everything. Without you I would not have made through my difficult times. You’re the greatest medicine in life. My love, and faith grow bigger and bigger each day.

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The Men of the Sacred Hearts sponsored the movie The Miracle of Our Lady of Fatima on Sunday, October 23, 2016 at the Historic Redford Theater in Detroit.

Having never done something like this before, we were apprehensive about how this was going to turn out. We were happy that over 400 people showed up for the event.

The movie was made in 1952, but was in full color and was appropriate for the whole family. The Redford Theater was as beautiful as the day it opened for business, the seats were recovered recently and they were making plans to redo the women’s restroom.

We added hot dogs for $1 to make sure everyone who showed up hungry got some lunch. The concession stand was full of candy and the popcorn was hot. We only had one soda pop spill and required cleanup before the movie started.

After the movie, we enjoyed a 1950’s short slide show of actual photos of the 70,000 people who were at Fatima on October 13, 1917. Many miracles were recorded of the blind getting their sight back and the lame being cured. The crowd that was soaked by the all day rain suddenly became dry when they witnessed the “Miracle of the Sun” dancing in the sky.

The idea to show the movie at the Redford began with Jim Nihem who is on the Men of the Sacred Hearts Board of Directors. Jim was passionate about showing this movie and it was this passion that sold the board on taking the risk of paying up front for the theater and hoping we could get enough people to break even on the expenses.

The frosting on the cake came from when everyone in the theater prayed the Holy Rosary after the movie. We asked two teenage girls to lead a decade of the Rosary each, and they readily agreed. Gladys and Mary Oster attend Bishop Foley High School and did an excellent job. Why is it that we are so moved when our teens take their faith seriously?

But the best part was Maryann Spraggins who is in

third grade who lead the Holy Rosary with a loud and clear voice. Then Maria Spraggins (Maryann’s Mom) lead a decade as well. Unfortunately, neither one of them are in the photo below.

The Redford

Gladys and Mary Oster, Raymond Kettel, David, Andrew and Derick Grembi leading the Holy Rosary with the signature Our Lady of Fatima statue.

Directors Raymond Kettel, Derick Grembi, Jim Nihem, David Tay, Kerry Schaeffner and Mike Carr (not in photo was Joe Monte and Walter Grence).

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Congratulations to Men of the Sacred Hearts

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Truth and Forgiveness

I’m broken. Not ruined, but bruised and healing.

I walk among you, a man that is showing his years. You know me as a happy funny sort of man. I can make funny comments without hurting anyone’s feelings. Some people think that I might be doing financially well in life (looks can be deceiving).

I’m bleeding, but not mortally.

I’m a father that now see’s that I wasted my best years pushing to get ahead at work rather than delighting in a child’s want to spend time with Daddy. I realized too late that the call “Daddy, come play with me” would change to “Can I borrow your car?”

I’m broken and at times weak. You may see me as an executive who controls a business. You may see a confident and in control person. I see me as a frightened at times at how close a work related potential disaster was to becoming a reality. I know it was God’s Grace that helped me pull out of the nose dive into hard rocky earth and save the day and the business.

I’m in a constant state of seeking forgiveness from God for my weakness and mistakes. As a younger earthling, I felt that I controlled my own destiny. Only age and seeking truth shined the light on my silly notion that I was in charge.

I had luck on my side as a younger man, and as a older man came to realize luck was Living Under Christ’s Kindness= LUCK.

I’m needier now than before. Not for compliments or positive feedback, but for the true Joy that can only come from knowing Jesus and what He is asking us to do for Him.

The more I give to Him, the more He gives to me. Most of the time I get small spoonful’s of His Grace. But there are times that He gives me the biggie size that makes me trust more and want more. Like a junkie on drugs, the small hits just make me want

more and more. This normally happens when I do something for another person. It never has happened when I selfishly took care of my needs first.

But through it all, I recognize that I’m still broken and bruised. Thank you Jesus for the Sacrament of Reconciliation! Go in the door wounded, come out fixed up for another round with life.

I went to confession on a Monday, and returned on a Wednesday with a slight smile on the face of Father (I go face to face). “I’m back” I said, and he said “Good”. Once I went to confession with an old priest friend of mine, and laid out the litany of my past months sins. Father commented that I was getter better at this to which I replied “after all this”. He said that my confession was more realistic of a good confession for a month of living, and that he felt that I had made a very honest effort to cover it all. He said that the ones who come in with a short list are not being truthful to themselves or God.

I’m a broken and seeking repair man in need of His Forgiveness. I’m considering going to confession weekly just to get the “fix” I need to feel whole again.

You would maybe be surprised who I am…..

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Pray for Others

You know that something just doesn’t feel right. What is missing in your life?

You know what I’m talking about. You already volunteer for light duty stuff and are available to help a friend in need, but you know something much bigger is missing. There is a hole in your chest that no fancy car, job, or toy can fill.

Maybe you’re snapping at the woman you begged to marry you, and the kids are beginning to avoid you. Maybe those who love you are asking “what’s wrong?”

Let me suggest an easy free solution that worked for me and others. Stop praying for yourself. Begin praying for other people and families. You do this by joining the Men of the Sacred Hearts and get invited to homes where people are excited about Enthroning the Sacred Heart of Jesus in their life and home.

The mere act of not thinking about you and your

problems, and let yourself be guided by the Holy Spirit when praying for another husband, wife and children will reward you with a blessing from Jesus and His Mother. You will feel it as a warm blush or other sensation, but you will get some reward if you did this act of kindness for another family with charity in your heart.

I know. I was touched by Our Lady after my first home enthroned when I was invited to just come along and watch. I was not a solid Catholic (Holy Days of Obligation were optional in my religion), and I was not what you would call a regular at the Confessional.

But my buddy asked me to join him so I could experience what he experienced. I did it for him and because I owed him a favor. One time and I’m paid up, and out of here!

To say I was shocked at what I felt leaving the home would be an understatement. So, what about you? Yes, I know the 100 reasons you are going to tell me you can’t possible do this. How about one time. No pressure. Just give it a chance one time.

I did, and I met my new eight best friends who would take a bullet for me as I would for them; yea- the brotherhood is that strong. Finding friendship like that is not a coincidence; it is a gift from God. Need proof, let me connect you to Tom, Mike, Tony, Jeff, Stan, Dominic, Tommy and Mathew. My brothers in Christ.

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Who Am I?

24601!

In the musical “Les Miserables”, the character Jean Valjean was in a French prison for stealing a loaf of bread to give to his sisters starving child. If you saw the play, you will remember that Valjean gave a powerful performance singing “Who am I”. In his character, he had lost his identity and was just his prison number 24601.

So I got to thinking while at Holy Mass on a Thursday morning, who am I. Who do I say I am to my friends? New people that I meet? Family? What would my response be to Jesus if He asked me “who are you?”

Then the morning coffee kicked in and I began to think what would I have to say to Jesus if he asked

“What have you done to expand my Kingdom lately?” Whoops.

We all have demands on our time.

But the hard truth is that Our Lord expects us to work in His vineyard to expand His Kingdom. We are called to Evangelize those who have walked away from their faith or those who are weak in their faith.

Stepping out of our shell and engaging those around us at work or at play is difficult, but once you try it a few times, it gets to be fun and you can get a “buzz” from it.

I resolved to be more than just “24601”. Holy Mass was beginning, so my thoughts turned to Father as he processed to the alter.

Who am I? 24601!?

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Congratulations to the Men of the Sacred Hearts

on their 52nd year of Enthroning homes, businesses, and schools

throughout Michigan.

May they continue to spread devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary for

many years to come.

DOUG & MARGARET RAHAIM GLASS RECYCLERS

6545 WYOMING • DEARBORN, MI 48126

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A & M Industries ......................................................28

Adamo Group ..............................................................36

Ahee Jewelers ............................................................28

Alliance Catholic Credit Union ................................56

Allied Lawn Sprinklers ..............................................54

Allied Printing .............................................................12

American Specialty Oil Co. ......................................12

Amine & Associates, LLC .........................................56

Armaly Brands ............................................................24

Art Van Furniture .........................................................6

Austin Catholic High School ....................................42

Ave Maria Mutual Funds ...........................................28

Bommarito Bakery .....................................................54

Bourtrous Companies...............................................54

Brieden Consulting Group .......................................54

Brown & Brown Detroit - Dan West ......................17

Brown & Brown Detroit - Jerry Zaccardelli..........40

Brown & Brown Detroit - Jim Libs .........................40

Burning Tree Golf & Country Club .........................50

Carl Papa, D.D.S., P.C. ................................................34

Catholic Charities of SE Michigan ..........................26

Catholic Legacy of Michigan ....................................43

Catholic Supply House ..............................................58

Constructeam .............................................................53

Creative Specialties Co. ..........................................56

DeSeranno Wealth Management ............................48

Detroit International Bridge Co .......................... IFC

Detroit Spectrum Painters, Inc ..............................58

Diesel Truck & Trailer ..............................................56

Divine Mercy Center .................................................13

Dytron Corporation ...................................................20

Eastown Distrubutors.................................................4

Embree Sign Co. ........................................................48

Emily’s “Home of the Meat Pie” .............................58

F.L. Andary Realty Co. ................................................53

Ferlito Construction .................................................36

Ferrara Dermatology.................................................54

Financial Security Ins. Marketing ...........................57

Fishermen’s Fund ......................................................18

Food Services dba Chicken Shack ..........................38

Fred Elias Auto Sales ................................................54

Gallagher Benefit Services Inc. ..............................58

Gaudino’s ....................................................................16

Giarmarco, Mullins & Horton PC ............................38

Glass Recyclers ..........................................................59

Gregory Schwartz & Co Inc .....................................58

Guzzardo Chiropractic Center ................................50

Holbrook Automotive ................................................36

Holy Family Regional School ...................................41

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Parish .................34

Integra Realty Resources.........................................20

Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss P.C. ................................38

Jim Causley .................................................................16

Jumps Restaurant ......................................................56

Kehrig Manufacturing Co. Inc .................................57

Kidd & Leavy Real Estate .........................................36

KW Domaine ...............................................................55

Lou LaRiche Chevrolet .............................................48

Lovasco Appraisal Services .....................................40

Lovasco Consulting Group .......................................10

Maaco Collision Repair & Auto Painting ...............52

Macomb Restaurant Supply .....................................48

Maloof Jewelry & Gifts .............................................34

Mancuso’s Florist, Inc ..............................................48

Manresa Jesuit Retreat House ...............................41

Marand Products Company ......................................54

Marlow Family Dental P.L.L.C. .................................56

Merrill Lynch The Migliazzo Group ..........................8

Messina Trucking .......................................................57

Metropolitan Eye Center PC ...................................40

Metzler Locricchio Serra & Co. ..............................22

Midpoint Construction, LLC ....................................34

MJC Companies .........................................................22

Mother and Unborn Baby Care ...............................15

Mourad Restaurants .................................................34

Murray Lighting & Electrical Supply Co. ...............48

National Management Systems...............................46

Net Portfolio, Inc .......................................................54

New Paradigm Promotional Marketing ..................52

Newmark Grubb Knight Frank .................................28

Nino Salvagios ............................................................48

Northgate Ford Inc ....................................................54

Office Express (OEX) ..............................................61

Park Rite Inc ...............................................................44

Paul Marcuz DDS .......................................................56

Performance Machinery ...........................................50

Phase Four ..................................................................58

Phoenix Contracting ..................................................56

Pirrone Investment CO, LLC ...................................43

Potere-Modetz Funeral Home ................................58

Premier Estate Properties ......................................52

Pro-med Delivery, Inc. ..............................................42

Real Estate in the Pointes .......................................48

Real Living Kee Realty ..............................................48

Richard Lucido & Sons Produce, Inc .....................52

Rocky Produce ............................................................26

Royal Banana...............................................................58

Safie Specialty Foods Company ................................2

Schaeffner, Miller, Hastings & Connelly, LLC ......50

Schena Roofing and Sheet Metal Co., Inc. ............14

Select Restoration.....................................................54

Shell Rusty Keg Party Shoppe .................................38

Shores Chiropractic Center P.C. .............................57

Simone Contracting Corporation ...........................18

SS Cyril and Methodius Parish ................................13

St. Andrew Catholic Church .....................................32

St. Clair Eye of Shelby...............................................20

St. Lawrence Parish ..................................................32

St. Paul on the Lake...................................................32

Star Heating & Sheet Metal Works ........................46

Steve’s Back Room ....................................................58

Stucky Vitale Architects ............................................58

TCBY .............................................................................46

Technical Logistic Corporation ...............................14

Tom Furnari Painting .................................................48

Ventimiglia Imported Italian Foods .......................56

Vince & Joes ...............................................................48

Viviano Flower Shop ..................................................49

Weingartz.....................................................................62

Western Mechanical .................................................56

Wolverine Packing Company ....................................24

Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc .................................44

2016 Yearbook Advertisers

60

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1280 E. Big Beaver RoadTroy, Michigan 48083toll free 877.795.2600

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