Seismic Shifts for Better Prayer

Our attendance keeps growing…we’re finally back to our pre-COVID numbers! Today it was wonderful to welcome back Andrew and Oscar, as well as to have Michel join us for the first time.

Today Michael presented a topic inspired by a chapter from Matthew Kelly’s book, “33 Days to Eucharistic Glory.” This comes from Chapter 6 of the book, where Matthew presents six shifts in his prayer life that he considered “seismic” for bettering his time in prayer. Please check out the attached file to learn more about those six items: Seismic Shifts

Featured Scripture

John 14:1-4, 25-27

Featured Song

“Be Kind to Yourself” by Andrew Peterson (Music Video)

In Attendance:

Andrew P, Andrew S, Chris A, Chris C, Chuck, Dale, Deacon Al, Don, Gilbert, Greg, Jack, Larry Chu, Larry Church, Michael, Michel, Mike, Oscar, Ray, Tony

(MC)

Diverse Devotions - Ways to Pray Every Day

This was one of our best-attended meetings in a while. It was so great to welcome back some old-timers like Sarge and Joe, and was also great to welcome Juan for the very first time. We also had a special visit from Fr John as he requested support for a new parish initiative involving a Vocations Ministry.

This morning, Mike led us in a discussion on how there are so many different ways to pray - it’s not one-size-fits-all. Prayer comes in the form of reciting prayers like the Our Father or Hail Mary, but it is also present through song, scriptural reflection, and throughout the Mass. Prayer, at its core, is a conversation between you and God, and you know best how you are individually able to have those conversations with Him.

For those interested in digging a little deeper into the different ways we can pray, check out the book, “Pray Deep“ by Kathryn Shirey. (This is the book that inspired Mike for today’s presentation.) And for those interested in what Mike was showing us with “Prayer Doodling”, you’re welcome to check out this website: Prayer Doodles

Featured Scripture

Mark 2:1-12

Featured Song

“Panis Angelicus” Prayer by St Francis, Music by Cesar Franck (Music Video)

In Attendance:

Bob, Chris A, Chris C, Dale, David, Deacon Al, Gilbert, Greg, Jack, Joe, Juan, Julian, Larry, Michael, Mike, Ray, Roger, Sarge, Tony

(MK)

Dare to Hope * Dare to Believe * Dare to Take a Risk

Once again, another wonderful morning of Faith, Food & Fellowship. It was great to welcome Gilbert for the first time. It was also very special to be able to celebrate Chuck’s 80th birthday with him.

Chris led today’s discussion, and it was a good one. Jumping off from the Gospel of Matthew, and the story of the Canaanite woman who begged Jesus to heal her daughter, we then explored the places in our own lives where we dare to Hope, dare to Believe, and dare to Take a Risk. There are so many inspiring stories from the New Testament where non-Jews showed extreme faith in Jesus, and would not be stopped from asking Him for help. They knew He was the only one that could help, and with singular focus, they made their way to Him to ask (the Canaanite woman, the woman with the hemorrhage, the faithful Centurion, just to name a few). Where in YOUR own life can you dare to hope, dare to believe, and dare to take a risk?

Featured scripture

Matthew 15:21-28

Additional Scripture Selections: Scriptures

Featured Song

“The Great Adventure” by Steven Curtis Chapman (Music Video)

Suggested Videos

You Are More Than A Conqueror

Trust

Frame Your Mind with Faith

In Attendance:

Anthony, Chris A, Chris C, Chuck, David, Deacon Al, Gilbert, Greg, Jack, Julian, Michael, Mike, Richard, Roger

(CA)

Gifts of the Spirit

This morning Dale led us on an exploration of the Gifts that God intends for all of us, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus urges us to “strive for the spiritual gifts”, and yet so many of us don’t even think to ask. It was particularly powerful this morning as we prayed over each brother individually, asking the Holy Spirit to help make each man aware - or at least open to the awareness - of the Gifts God has in store.

And in a bit of Divine Providence, this same day our brother Julian received the Sacrament of Confirmation - bestowing on him the true gifts of the Spirit. Mike was Julian’s sponsor, and it was nice to see a few of the CMF brothers in attendance.

Also… special shout-out and thank you to Tony for covering the waffle-making in the absence of David. Chef Anthony did a wonderful job!

Featured scripture

1 Corinthians 12:1-11, 28-31, 14:1-5
2 Timothy 1:6-7

Featured Songs

“You’re Gonna Need The Lord” by Will McFarland (Music Video)
“I Need Thee Every Hour” by Don Moen (Music Video)

In Attendance:

Chris A, Chris C, Chuck, Dale, Deacon Al, Don, Greg, Jack, Julian, Larry Chu, Larry Church, Michael, Mike, Ray, Richard, Tony

(DA)

Attitude of Gratitude

At this morning’s meeting we surveyed the attitude of gratitude in our lives. Many were struck by the lack of gratitude the 9 of 10 lepers had toward their miraculous healings. Next, a powerful video by Catholic evangelist Chris Stefanik explored five upsides of gratitude. This was followed by a lively group discussion as many pondered there level of gratitude in light of the abundant blessing God has given us. 

“In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”
(1 Thes 5:18)

Featured Scripture

Luke 17:11-19

Featured Song

“Wonderful Merciful Savior” by Selah (Music Video)

Links to Explore

Living Joy: Gratitude

The Absolute Necessity of Saying, “Thank You”

Giving Thanks is Necessary

In Attendance:

Chris A, Chris (welcome to Greg’s cousin!), Chuck, Dale, David, Deacon Al, Frank, Greg, Jack, Julian, Larry, Mike, Tony

(CA)

Seven Principles - Part II

This morning Mike finished his talk on the 7 Principles for CMF…

Principles 5-7:

  • “Be a man of prayer and responsibility” - We encourage one another to be men of prayer. we pray daily for others. we give God praise and thanksgiving as we prayerfully seek to discern God’s will for our lives.

  • “Be a man of humility and love” - we reach out beyond all racial, cultural and denominational barriers, to men and women of all ages and walks of life, demonstrating the power of unity in Christ and the Church.

  • “Be a man on a mission” - We commit ourselves to changing the world by proclaiming the Gospel through a lifestyle and public witness that embodies Jesus; we build up the ‘Body of Christ’”

Featured Scripture

Philippians 4:4-9

Featured Song

“Whom Shall I Fear” by Chris Tomlin (Music Video)

The Eucharist

For coming off a back-to-back situation from having the Into The Breach conference last week, we were surprised at how many men joined us this morning. And we welcomed six guys who joined us for the first time: Thomas, Robert, Kenny, Steve, John and Michael. It was great to have all of you there!

Chris led us in a discussion on the importance of the Eucharist, and the challenge Catholics face with our belief in the True Presence of Christ. Kenny gave a great analogy about how we receive the Eucharist. He reminded us that when we eat a juicy steak, that meal will either become muscle or fat within us - depending on how well we take care of our bodies. Likewise, we need to take proper care of ourselves when we receive the Eucharist - treating our bodies as the temple God intended - so that Jesus can affect amazing change within us.

For additional material on the Eucharist, please check out the links below…

How The Eucharist Changed My Life (Fr Mike)
The Disciples Doubted the Eucharist - Do You? (Fr Mike)
What Do You Get Out of Mass?
Jesus, and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist
The Eucharist in Scripture
The Importance of Mass and the Eucharist

Featured Scripture

John 6:26-66

Featured Song

“Come to the Table” by Sidewalk Prophets (Music Video)

In Attendance:
Anthony, Chris, Chuck, Dale, David, Don, Frank, Greg, Joe, John, Julian, Kenny, Larry, Michael A, Michael C, Richard, Robert, Roger, Steve, Thomas, Tony

(CA)

Seven Principles

As always, we enjoyed another wonderful breakfast this morning, and it was a pleasant surprise to be joined by CMF President, Gil Alderete. This month was led by Mike, and we discussed the Seven Principles of CMF. We got through the first three:

  • Be A Man For Jesus

  • Be A Man For Others

  • Be A Man Of Integrity

There was a lot of feedback from the men, and it was a really great discussion. For a review of the full list, please refer to this page: Seven Principles

Featured Scripture

Romans 7:14-20

Featured Song

“Be Still & Know” by Jordan Smith (Music Video)

In Attendance
Anthony, Chris, Chuck, Dale, David, Don, Gil, Julien, Larry, Michael, Mike, Ray, Roger, Sarge, Tony

(MK)

Lenten Reflections

Smaller gathering this morning, but the men who attended still seemed to get a lot out of the meeting. We first spent some time discussing the Scripture reading from Esther - noting in particular the Jewish use of fasting as part of their regular prayer life. We then spent time discussing how we’re doing so far with this Lent, and how Lent serves not as a temporary period of trying to do good things (pray/fast/give alms), but this is more of a starting-off point for the rest of our year (if we’re not already doing those things regularly).

Featured Scripture

Esther 4:12-17

Featured Song

“Here I Am” by John Angotti (Music Video)

In Attendance:
Chris, Cody, Dale, Gabriel, L Chu, L Church, Michael, Mike, Roger, Ruben, Sarge

(11)

Detachment: Letting Go and Letting God

Cody led us in another wonderful faith gathering of men. Today we discussed all the different places in our lives where we can maybe learn to detach, as these are places/situations that might be keeping us away from God. We might benefit from detaching from certain People, Anger, Vices, our Past, and/or our Pride/Ego. The men really seemed to enjoy talking this out, and we had some great conversations come out of it.

Featured Scripture

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

Featured Song

“Confidence” by Sanctus Real (Music Video)

In Attendance
Chris, Chuck, Cody, Dale, Don, Frank, Jack, Joe, Larry C, Larry Ch, Michael, Mike, Oscar, Roger, Ruben, Tony

(CS)

Tell Us Your Story...

Wow…

What an incredible morning of Faith, Food & Fellowship. We were joined this morning by CMF President, Gil Alderete, who was promoting the upcoming Super Saturday Conference. We were also joined by newcomer, Gabriel. Gabriel showed amazing courage as he shared the story of his personal journey, and it was a very powerful story. Frank showed equal courage in sharing his own testimony as well. Hearing the faith journeys of these brothers was a blessing for the rest of the men in the room, and we are grateful to them for their openness.

Featured Scripture

Isaiah 49:3, 5-6

Featured Song

“When Love Sees You (Jesus)” by Mac Powell (Music Video)

In Attendance:
Brandon, Chuck, Cody, Ed, Frank, Gabriel*, Gil, Greg, Julian, Larry, Michael, Mike, Ray, Roger, Tony…with a special visit by Fr. John
*First visit
(15)

Preparing for Next Year

We enjoyed yet another wonderful gathering of men this morning. It was so great to welcome Joe back after a very extended absence, and so kind of Oscar to drop off some delicious tamales even though he couldn’t stay for the breakfast.

This morning we took some time to discuss Matthew’s Gospel of John asking the Disciples to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming, which is exactly what Advent is all about. We also discussed ideas for ways to broaden the reach of Men’s Fellowship within our parish community.

Featured Scripture

Matthew 3:1-12

Featured Song

“Mary Did You Know?” by Mark Lowry (Music Video)

17

Dealing with Adversity – Way to Grow

Another wonderful gathering of men this morning. Chris led the men in a good open discussion about many areas of the topic of dealing with adversity.

One adversity that we face is the messaging in the culture. It is against our beliefs – and young people are particularly susceptible to it. Nonetheless, we are called to use our faith, be a light and persevere. There was the realization that a lot of good is happening in the world, but that it usually doesn’t make the news.

Jesus also explained in his Last Supper discourse, that a soul must painfully be pruned in order to produce more fruit (John 15). Some sound advice for dealing with adversity is to by joyful, prayerful and grateful: “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thes 5:16-18)

Featured Scripture

2 Corinthians 4:1-18

Featured Song

“Don’t Lose Heart” by Steven Curtis Chapman (Music Video)

16 CA

Being Nice vs Being Good: The False Virtue of Tolerance

What a wonderful gathering of men this morning! Our largest gathering of the year, and it was so great to welcome some brand new men to our group.

Cody gave an inspired talk on the difference between being nice and being good, and how being nice isn’t always the best course of action - when it means sacrificing our virtues. The men responded well to the discussion.

Featured Scriptrure

James 2:14-26

Featured Song

“Strong Enough” by Matthew West (Music Video)

22 CS

Deliver Us From Evil

Wow…what a beautiful gathering this morning. Special thanks to Jack & Rosa for opening their home to us for our meeting. And much appreciation to Dale for leading our topic today. The Holy Spirit was definitely with us this morning as Dale led us through a discussion on temptation, the importance of resisting, and the power of renouncing evil in the name of Jesus.

We would like to offer a special shout-out to Greg who celebrated his birthday today, and prayers for Mike & Cheryl who are traveling to celebrate their 30th Wedding Anniversary.

Featured Scripture

Dale provided several different scripture references that we reflected on, which can be found here: Deliver Us From Evil

Featured Song

“All Creation Worships You” by Tony Melendez (Music Video)

12 DA

The Truth... What Is It? How Do We Live It?

This morning was a very well attended meeting, and Jack prepared a wonderful discussion on how we look for, find, and act on the Truth. The men had a lot of thoughts on this - especially concerning the culture we currently live in. It takes great strength to live the Truth in today’s world, but that is exactly what God asks us to do.

It was so wonderful to welcome back Greg after a long time away, and also to welcome Chris and Tom for the first time.

Here is a copy of the handout Jack prepared: Truths

Featured Scripture

Jack put together several Scripture references that spoke on “Truth”: Scriptures

Featured Song

“The Voice of Truth” by Casting Crowns (Music Video)

19 JR

We Are Sent

Once again, we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast gathering with the men. Today’s topic was actually inspired by a Homily given by Fr. Dennis, and we looked at how Jesus summons each of us in preparation of then sending each of us out into the world - to make a difference. Sometimes we are called to make big changes. Sometimes we are called simply to take care of our household. But all of these calls are hugely important, and part of God’s larger plan. The men seemed to really respond well to the discussion, and some very personal stories were beautifully shared.

A special welcome to Oscar who joined us for the first time today, and thank you to Reuben for inviting him to come.

Featured Scripture

Matthew 10:1, 5-23, 26-39

Featured Song

“I Send You Out” by John Angotti (Music Video)

17 HS

Come, Holy Spirit

What an amazing gathering this morning. As Chuck pointed out, the Holy Spirit was definitely in the room with us…

We welcomed two brand new men, Andrew and Victor, and you would have thought they’ve been with us the whole time with how quickly they jumped in and shared right along with everyone else. It was also a particular blessing to welcome back Bill White after a very extended absence. Bill turns 90 in a couple of weeks, so it was great to see him again and wish him a Happy Birthday. And it is with a heavy heart that we had to say Goodbye to our brother, John Craine. The Craine family is leaving to start a new life on the East Coast. John will be greatly missed, and we pray for the safe travels of his family.

Deacon Al led us this morning in a talk about the Holy Spirit, and we spent a bit of time talking about one of the particular gifts of the Holy Spirit: “Courage”. Specifically, we looked at how it takes courage to remain true to our faith while living in this very secular world - especially at our places of employment. The entire conversation was great, and had a lot of participation from the men.

Can’t wait to do it all again next month!

Featured Scripture

Psalm 51

Featured Song

“Undefeated” by Collin Raye (Music Video)

17 AG

7 Habits of Highly Effective Catholics

Once again we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast gathering with the guys this morning. It was so great to welcome Milton back after an extended period away, and Cody’s friend Matt joined us for the very first time - and was by far the best dressed of us all!

Chris led today’s topic discussion, and we delved in to the good, and bad, habits we all encounter as Catholics. The men had some really great things to share about what makes good habits - and how to attain those habits; as well as what it takes to get rid of bad habits… (Spoiler alert - prayer is involved).

Chris also gave a really powerful demonstration. In the photos below, you'll see images of Chris pouring rice into a cup. To sum up his demonstration...

  • He poured rice into a cup

  • The cup of rice stood for our personal will, wants, desires

  • Then he brought out a handful of pretzel balls, which represented God's will

  • He tried to place the pretzel balls on top of the rice in the cup, but there wasn't enough room for all of the pretzel balls to fit within in the cup

  • Next, he removed the pretzel balls, and poured all the rice into a second cup

  • He then put all the pretzel balls into the cup first, and then poured the same amount of rice back in

  • IT ALL FIT, even with room to spare

The point of the demonstration was that when we make room for God to be first in our lives, He makes room for the rest. It was a wonderful visual way of showing this truth about God.

For those interested, Chris has also provided a handout: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Catholics

The Second Saturday meeting date seems to be working well for the men. God obviously led us to begin holding our meetings on these mornings. And we’re looking forward to having Grandpa Kellogg return next month!

Featured Scripture

Luke 12:22-34

Featured Song

“Your Grace Is Enough” by Matt Maher (Music Video)

17 CA