FROM NOW

 

A POWERFUL MEANS

 

SAINT JOHN CASSIAN DIXIT

 

SAINT JOHN BOSCO DIXIT

 

RENEWAL OF THE CONDEMNATION OF THE MODERNIST HERESY

“… Hence arose the monstrous errors of "Modernism," which Our Predecessor rightly declared to be "the synthesis of all heresies," and solemnly condemned. We hereby renew that condemnation in all its fulness, Venerable Brethren, and as the plague is not yet entirely stamped out, but lurks here and there in hidden places, We exhort all to be carefully here and there in hidden places, We exhort all to be carefully on their guard against any contagion of the evil […] Nor do We merely desire that Catholics should shrink from the errors of Modernism, but also from the tendencies or what is called the spirit of Modernism. Those who are infected by that spirit develop a keen dislike for all that savours of antiquity and become eager searchers after novelties in everything: in the way in which they carry out religious functions, in the ruling of Catholic institutions, and even in private exercises of piety. Therefore it is Our will that the law of our forefathers should still be held sacred: "Let there be no innovation; keep to what has been handed down." In matters of faith that must be inviolably adhered to as the law; it may however also serve as a guide even in matters subject to change, but even in such cases the rule would hold: "Old things, but in a new way." 

 Benedict XV, Ad Beatissimi, 1-11-1914

THE SWORD THAT PIERCED HER HEART

In the light of that sinister prophecy of Simeon, the sorrowful Mother saw the somber picture of her Son's passion. She bowed her head gently, as a reed bends in the wind of a storm, and she felt a double-edged sword plunge into her womb. From that moment, all happiness ended for her, and accepting the divine disposition without complaint, she brought her lips close to the chalice that she would drink during her entire life. 

 When she held her Son in her arms; Simeon's words shed drops of gall... Mary was not granted what is given to all mothers: to enjoy in peace the love of her child and to indemnify herself from the rigors of fate with a smile on her lips ajar by innocence. She saw written on Jesus' forehead at all hours the sentence of death that men would carry out against Him as a reward for His benefits. That gloomy idea surprised her in her sleep, bothered her when she was awake, haunted her during work, and disturbed her during her few hours of rest. Jesus' robe, woven by her own hands, before being dyed with the blood of her Son, was soaked in the tears of the Mother. 

SAINT JOHN OF THE CROSS DIXIT