Author: BirgitJ

Birgit is a 50-something cradle Catholic who is passionate about the pro-life movement. She enthusiastically serves on the Diocesan Gospel of Life Committee where she chairs pro-life events and writes pro-life articles. Birgit has been married to her Catholic convert husband, Rick, for 37 years. They have four children and seven grandchildren (all age eight and under). Their frequent visits eliminate any fear of an empty nest! Her vibrant Catholic faith colors every aspect of her life. She also sings in the church choir with her husband and daughter. Other interests include politics, as they relate to ‘Life’, and Church liturgy as well as photography, cooking, and gardening. She can also be found on her personal blog, Designs by Birgit.

Not a Garden Gnome: Understanding St. Francis

The name, St. Francis, is on everyone’s lips these days – ever since our new Holy Father took Francis as his official name. With this rise in popularity, a saint whose reputation has already been misrepresented, has swung into full blown mischaracterization. As arguably the … Continue readingNot a Garden Gnome: Understanding St. Francis

Catholicism – Appearances can be Deceiving

The saying, “the devil is in the details” seems to be more relevant these days. The Great Deceiver consistently works to detour our course toward Heaven. One of his greatest distractions is to instigate rash judgment without proper analysis. Appearances can be quite deceiving and it would be … Continue readingCatholicism – Appearances can be Deceiving

Smoke Watch – Being a Savvy Conclave Fan and Member of the Papa-ratzi

CONCLAVE updates at END No’pe = a contraction indicating that there is no pope. This type of humorous comment (thanks, Stacy T) – in addition to serious conversations about the conclave – has been the fare of the day in the world of electronic media. As … Continue readingSmoke Watch – Being a Savvy Conclave Fan and Member of the Papa-ratzi

Of Toilet Paper and Fortitude

I have often found that our best virtues can also be our worse vices. What makes us ‘good’ can also present quite the trial for our souls (and for those around us). Take Fortitude, for example – it can show its face as intractability if … Continue readingOf Toilet Paper and Fortitude

Navigating the Uncharted Waters of Pope Benedict’s Retirement

So, we’ve had 16 days to accustom ourselves to the retirement of Pope Benedict XVI, our 266th pope in the line of succession beginning with the Rock, St. Peter. By now most of us have shaken off the fog of shock and have taken a more resolute … Continue readingNavigating the Uncharted Waters of Pope Benedict’s Retirement