What Is So Special About Friday Masses

Ever wondered what’s so special about First Friday Masses? In the 17^th century, our Lord appeared to St. Margaret Mart and made the following promises to those who would be devoted to the Sacred Heart.

1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state in life.
2. I will give them peace in their families.
3. I will console them in all their troubles.
4. They shall find in My Heart an assured refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
5. I will pour abundant blessing on all their undertakings.
6. Sinners shall find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
7. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
8. Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection.
9. I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored.
10. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their name written in My Heart, and it shall never be effaced.
12. The all powerful love of My Heart will grant t all those who shall receive communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at the last hour.
    

Guidelines to a Successful Retreat

Its March already, come April most company will have their annual retreat. Although it should be a time between you and the Lord, you may also want some guidance to help you recollect like a spiritual director. Below are some suggestions for your retreat.

Bible Reading. The time to sit down and read slows us down and gives us perspective. The specific way of reading Scripture in a reflective way is called Lectio Divina and consists of four stages:

1. Reading - slowly and repeatedly
2. Meditating - digest the words that you have read
3. Praying - talk with the Lord about what the words mean in your life.
4. Contemplating - rest in the presence of God and in his Love.
   
   

Devotional Reading. A retreat is a great time to read the reflections of men and women who've run ahead of us in the journey of faith. There are all sorts of devotional readings that you can shoose from, depending on your preference and inclination.

Prayer. There is no right way to pray during a retreat. What's important is that your heart is right. You can pray the Psalms, the Rosary, use prayer books or go into silence. Choose whatever way helps you commune with the Lover of your Soul. You can even walk and pray at the same time.

Slow Down. Spiritual refreshing doesn't mean another to do list from A to Z. You can sleep, nap, stare at the clouds or listen to the birds. Waste your time with the Lord who gives all good gifts.

Journaling. Some people are fitted to this way of doing a retreat. Writing down your thoughts and prayers could clarify things for you and it's highly therapeutic too.