Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM's blog

Choose Me

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:28:41 -0500

Chosen.

Did you ever play dodge ball growing up? I did. I dreaded it, actually, in grade school PE class. There were always two captains and then it started. Yep. Choosing teams. Now, if you're athletic, it really wasn't a big deal. You'd be chosen first. Then there's the rest of us…wondering when we'd finally be picked! Uhhh…wondering if the captain really wanted us on the team or if we were just the best one left to choose from. Then the game began! That's a whole other story!

Whatever your rank in being chosen to play dodge ball, did you know you are always chosen FIRST by the Lord? Yea? Good.

So, you know it, but do you believe it? What was that? Maybe? Yes? No?

Well, whatever your answer is, I hope you come to the point of being able to say with your whole heart, “YES!!” It may take some time to come to this, but persevere!

Another question: What provokes you to say “Halleluia Amen”? Is it only when things are going well and according to your plan? How about when there are struggles? In all things give praise to the Lord! Join with me today – whether you are in pain, in joy, in trial – to give an “Halleluia Amen!” to the Lord! Why?

He has chosen you. He loves you. He has chosen you to follow Him and placed you right where He wants you to be. He's walking WITH you! He'll help you dodge the ball that comes your way! Believe it. Trust it.

Magical powers, lock down, and Pope mobiles

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:54:50 -0500

I don't think I've laughed this much in a long time! Young people are great, are they not? I wish you could have joined me for the pilgrimage to New York to see Pope Benedict XVI! You too would have witnessed just how awesome young people can be!

I was so edified by their witness of joy, of flexibility, of being positive in the midst of changes, and really just living in the moment! I didn't hear any complaining and there really could have been some when an 18 hour bus ride increased to 20, or when attending a Pre-Papal Youth Rally ended up being more time on the bus than at the Rally itself. It certainly was a pilgrimage!…and one not to be forgotten!

We waited in long lines for the shuttle buses, for food at the Youth Rally, and sat on a bus for many hours. Why? Because I along with a bus load of teens and chaperones LOVE our Holy Father! We wanted to see him in person.

Magical Powers:

As we waited in line for the shuttle buses some young people revealed to me that I had magical powers! Wow! I didn't know I did! I could pull a pen out of my pen pocket! Amazing! So, we laughed much while we were in a shuttle bus line that didn't move for almost 45 minutes. Guess whose line buses kept skipping?! Were we irritated? Not really because we were enjoying the present moment and I was laughing at the incredibly imaginative minds of these young men!

Lock Down:

So, now it's 1:30pm and we are finally on the field of St. Joseph's Seminary. Yes, 3 1/2 hours after arriving at Yonkers Raceway to take shuttle buses to the Rally. We are glad to be here! What a beautiful day it was with sunshine and a cool breeze now and again.

Well, you could say we were hungry, slightly…understatement! I along with Katie and Sr. Mary David went with our tickets to the other side of field to get some food for us and some others. Now did we really think that we could get some food without waiting in line? I guess we could have hoped to do so! Alas, after another 2 1/2 hour wait we had food!!

We made our way through the crowds. We needed to get food to our group! Then we saw the fences before our eyes. Locked out. We couldn't cross the road to get to the field. Lock down. Security had to stop the flow of people from field to field. The Pope was arriving soon. But our group was on the other side? We had their food!

So, we had food. They had a spot on the field. What can you do? So, they starved and we ate. (Just ask Liz about her cookie story!) We just had to trust this is where the Lord wanted us to be.

Pope Mobile:

Where were we going to stand? There was a fence overlooking the field and stage. Would the Holy Father drive by? At first I didn't think so because there wasn't enough security. However, as time passed, more and more policeman started lining up. But wait, there was another fence back closer to the seminary building itself. Sr. Mary David went to check it out. She asked the policeman if we should stay where we were at or move here. He said he would stay where he was. She returned and the three of us moved over there. Within a few minutes, others from our group who had been "locked out" joined us. We weren't alone as we awaited the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI!

Sure enough, we were in the right spot! We could see the Pope mobile coming from the seminary and he drove right past us. Did I mention that we were right next to the fence? No one was in front of us, except the policman, some grass and trees! The young people cheered as they took pictures! Here was the man we had journeyed to see!

After he passed by, we made our way back to the other fence. Now, there were many in front of us and we couldn't see the stage, well, except Sr. Mary David! I told the others to stay close behind me. As people leave we could make our way closer, inch by inch. My gut was telling me that the Pope mobile would leave by this road.

Even though we couldn't hear everything due to the lack of sound and we weren't with the entire group, we were where the Lord wanted us to be.

Sure enough, we had inched our way closer. The Holy Father gave us his blessing and went back stage to get on the Pope mobile. Excitement grew as we anticipated him coming past us. YES! Here he came, just feet in front of us! Okay, so being locked out from the other side wasn't so bad after all!

Grace:

It hasn't even been 24 hours since arriving back. There is still much to ponder and pray about the experience of this pilgrimage. There are so many small stories to share.

I can say that I am blessed to work with young people. I was inspired these past days. It was a true pilgrimage with ups and downs, joys and sorrows, grace and encounters with Christ. My prayer is that the young people who traveled and those who stayed home, will know and believe in their hearts just how much they are loved by Jesus. May they place their trust in Christ and hope in Him!

Thank you to those who traveled for memories of magical powers, lock down, Pope mobiles and more!

I invite you to read one young man's blog, Luke Yamnitz, who traveled with us.

New Life

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:10:55 -0500

So, how is your Easter season? Are you even aware that we are still celebrating? We are at the end of Week 4 and I loved last Sunday - Good Shepherd Sunday!

Have you been listening to the words of our Holy Father during his visit? I have only had a chance to watch the Evening Prayer and address last night with the bishops. As you may know, his theme for this visit is "Christ our hope." A phrase he said last night stood out to me: "…find new life in Christ our hope." New life. After lent have you found new life in Christ? Is there a sense of living a new hope? Being re-created in Christ? Being a new creature? Experiencing new life?

I invite you to be open to the grace of this visit of our Holy Father, our shepherd here on earth. Let the Lord speak to you through his words. Even if you miss the live delivery, you can still return to it later.

Tonight I depart with a group of 55 young people and adults to journey to New York to see Pope Benedict XVI! Please pray for us and a safe journey. Please pray that all are open to the grace being poured out on us, on our country! We will listen to his message at the youth rally on April 19th, his anniversary of being elected to the pontificate.

Whatever you may be experiencing, may you find new life in Christ. A new hope. He never lets go of you! You are loved!

Where were you?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:55:29 -0500

There are certain events that happen that you will remember where you were when you heard the news. Many can recall where they were and what they were doing when President Kennedy died or when they heard the news on 9-11-01.

Today is one of those days especially for Catholics. Where were you when you heard the news of Pope John Paul II's death? For me personally, I had just arrived that day in the Netherlands for a pre-planning trip for World Youth Day. After Mass and dinner with the local Bishop, my co-workers and I said goodnight for the evening. A few hours later, after just falling asleep, I awoke to bells ringing. It was about 10pm. I knew in my heart that Pope John Paul II had died. Why else would the bells of the Church be ringing and ringing?

Today I give thanks for the gift of Pope John Paul II's life and witness! I thank God for a man who said yes to the Lord's call and lived a life of courageous love. Today I ask his intercession, especially for all young people and those who serve them.

You can share in the memories of what occured three years ago by checking out a series of videos that highlight some main events of the death and funeral of Pope John Paul II.

Let us unite in prayers of gratitude and respond with the same generosity and courage to the Lord's call for our own life today!

I would love to hear your story of "where you were" when you heard about the Holy Father's death and what it is about him that inspires you!

Pierced Hearts

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 14:33:45 -0500

A common question I get asked is “What’s your vocation story?” I first have to judge how much time there is before I begin the answer! Do I share the short or the detailed version? How much is this person really interested in the details? In reality, I just begin to talk and the Holy Spirit guides what part of the story to share.

We all have a vocation story. A priest told me before I entered the convent that I would be sharing my story over and over again. He then added, (I paraphrase), “Remember, this story isn’t for you. It’s for others.” In other words, I needed to be prepared to share my story. Even if I didn’t feel like it was a big deal or didn’t want the focus on myself, I needed to be ready to share it because the Lord would use it for other people.

So, this week I thought I would share part of my journey with you. Why? Because it has to do with Lent and Good Friday.

During Lent I had written a letter to my friend who had already entered the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George (Yea, it took me a long time to even remember the name!) telling her that I was thinking about religious life. After I had written it, I regretted that I had put it in the mail. “I’ve already been there. Not much at the time. I’ve read their brochures. I’m enjoying my single life. Oh, well. I guess she won’t read it until Easter anyway.” I knew the Sisters didn’t read their mail during Lent and waited until Easter to open it. Lent went on and I forgot I had mailed the letter.

During this particular Lent I had decided to go to Mass everyday with my roommates. We got up early, which for someone like me was a big deal! I love sleep! Well, we went to Mass, stayed and prayed for a while and then went to work.

Now I love adoration, but during this Lent I was drawn to go into the main Church and pray in front of the crucifix. So, that’s where I went. I would just sit there in the silence of the Church in front of the crucifix, in front of the Pierced One.

Easter came and the Thursday after Easter I received a letter from the vocation director of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George (do you have the name yet?). This time when I read the brochure the words were jumping off the page: “They shall look on Him whom they have pierced.” John 19:37 “To receive Christ’s merciful love and to make it visible.” Was this really the same brochure? My heart beat fast and I knew I had to call Sister!

Yes, the Lord had drawn me to Himself during Lent in front of His pierced side. He knew why my friend had to wait until Easter to read my letter. I would not have been ready for response any earlier. The words would not have jumped off the page if I had received it prior to Lent. Yes, all in the Lord’s time.

The charism of our community, (which one? Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George) is to receive Christ’s merciful and to make it visible. The scripture we focus on is “They shall look on Him whom they have pierced”. This is why Good Friday is a day close to my heart. It is the day when I gaze upon my Crucified Lord. I journey with Him to Calvary. I remain with Him at the foot of the cross. I receive His merciful love from His pierced side. Will you join me there this Good Friday?

So I thank you for reading a part of my journey. May the Lord use it to speak to your heart. I share it precisely for that reason.

Mercy - forever

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:58:32 -0500

As we reflect on this Friday of the first week of lent….remember…

His mercy endures forever! Do not despair, but trust in His mercy and believe! FOREVER does His mercy endure. That's a long time!

His Smile

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 10:41:03 -0500

Merry Christmas! Yes, the Church knows how to celebrate. The Christmas Season does not end on Christmas Day, but we celebrate for 8 days! The Christmas Octave!

I invite you to enter into these days of grace and celebration! Spend some time with the Christ-Child at the Crib. Sit in silence and receive His love. Sit with Mary and adore Him. Let her show you her Son’s tender love. Rest on the Heart of Christ!

Respond to the Child’s smile of joy! How could you not smile in return? Let this smile lift your spirit. Many of us may be experiencing struggles and trials right now: the death of a loved one, unemployment, sickness, fatigue, or (fill in the blank). Yet, doesn’t the smile of a baby make you smile? That’s Jesus! Look at His smile and let it lift your heavy heart. Let its light break into your darkness, if even just for a moment.

Smile! It will lift you up! HIS smile is even better! Let HIS love penetrate your heart this Christmas!

Questions

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:56:26 -0500

Question.

Answer.

Today I will ask you the questions and you will provide the answers. Okay? Okay.

Let's begin.

1. What do you make sure you have time for in your life everyday?

2. Do you set aside time to pray - you, know, develop that relationship with Jesus, talk with Him - every day? Now, I'm not talking about just when you happen to think of Jesus, or talk to Him on the way to work, but actually setting aside a specific time of day, place, and amount of time to spend with the Lord.

3. How often do you participate in the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation?

4. How would you rate your prayer life on a scale of 1-10? What needs to change to improve it?

5. How often do you encounter Christ daily? How attentive are you to His presence in the everyday, ordinary events of YOUR life?

6. How often do you read scripture?

For those of us in ministry, it is vital that we have a spiritual life, a prayer life! Do we personally know the One we desire young people to encounter? If you desire and are striving to bring young people closer to Christ, do YOU know HIM? Are you striving to come closer to Him each day? Is He leading your ministry or are you showing Him how you lead it?

My prayer is that each of you in ministry is personally encountering Christ each day. If you're not, why not? What is keeping you from coming to Him? Is He transforming you? The only way your ministry, your teens, and your parish will be transformed by Christ, is if you are being transformed by Him.

Please, please pray each day. Set aside time to come to Jesus. Talk with Him. Read scripture. Participate in the sacraments and receive His grace. Encounter Christ so your ministry is truly led by Him. Listen to Him and respond.

Stop. Reflect on your answers. Do you need to get your calendar out and set a date to meet with the Lord? Put it on your calendar today - for every day - and do not cancel it! Would you ever think of cancelling other meetings? Please don't put it off or cancel your meeting with the King of all Hearts!

Crazy

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 16:28:54 -0500

Today someone used this word in a context that was new for me. I quote, "Isn't His Love so Crazy? And shouldn't we become a little more crazy about Him and His Love at each phase of our lives?"

This is certainly something to ponder. Webster's Dictionary defines crazy as "mad : insane; consumed by enthusiasm or excitement; not sensible : impractical".

Hmmmmmm…..yes, His love is Crazy! Does it make sense that our Lord would suffer for us, for me? That He loves me in the midst of my sin? He died for love of me! On a human level, no, it doesn't make sense.

So, is my love just as crazy for Him? Has it become more crazy as life progresses? Yes, this is something to ponder. Who, from a worldly sense, would give her life completely to the Lord, forever? Yes, then I must be nuts..crazy…in love with a Savior!

How about you? Do you allow the Lord's Crazy Love to break into your heart? Try it today! Be open! Let your love be crazy for Him in return!

Ouch!

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 14:10:57 -0500

"Saint Francis never criticized anybody. He believed that if evil is all around, it is he and not others who must first be converted."

(The Gift of Faith, pg. 157)

Ouch! This hits to the core of the heart, doesn't it? I think this says it all! How easy it is to fall into criticism. What is needed instead is silence and self reflection on my own need for conversion.

Thank you Lord for your merciful love!

Happy Feast of St. Francis!

Bring or Block?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 08:47:14 -0500

A couple of weeks ago a phrase came to me in prayer. Simply, “let the children come to Me.” That’s it. No explanation or more direction was given, but simply “let the children come to Me.”

As I was thinking more about it, a question came to mind. Am a hindrance to His children coming to Him? Am I a block, so to speak, through my own sinfulness and selfishness? Or, do I bring His children to His Heart? Do I lead His children to His blessing? Am I vessel?

So, I read the full scripture passage from Matthew 19:13-15,

“At one point, children were brought to him so that he could place his hands on them in prayer. The disciples began to scold them, but Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to me. Do not hinder them. The kingdom of God belongs to such as these.’ And he laid his hands on their heads before he left that place.”

Do we not all desire the blessing of Jesus? Imagine His hands upon you in prayer. Amazing image!! Imagine His hands upon the young people you serve. Imagine His hands upon your children. Imagine His hands upon your family. He loves you more than you can imagine! He desires and invites YOU to COME to Him…to receive His blessing.

Ask yourself the question: Do I block or bring others to Christ? If you work with young people I am sure you have witnessed what it’s like when they come to the Lord! I’m sure you’ve also witnessed when you have been a hindrance. When we block others from encountering Christ it is most likely the time when we ourselves need to encounter Him. Please don’t allow your own lack of prayer and communion with the Lord to block others from meeting Him too!

I encourage you to meet Christ daily. Receive His blessing, His grace in the sacraments and prayer so you in turn can bring others to Him through your words, actions, and invitation.

I would love to hear any stories you have to share on how you have brought to Jesus His children for a blessing!

It's FINAL

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 13:54:45 -0500

So, some of you may wonder where I'm going to be this summer since I will not be at Project Life or the Steubenville Youth Conferences. What? Why not?

As much as I'm going to miss being a part of these events, there is something greater happening in my life. I am going to be preparing to make my final profession of vows. Actually, I will be leaving for Alton, IL very shortly - today!

Eight of us are gathering for ten weeks to study and pray before commiting ourselves in final vows when we will say "I vow to the Triune God forever". This is what I have desired to do for a long time and now the time has arrived. Amazing, actually!

As I go I ask you to please pray for me! I will pray for you as well! And please pray for my fellow staff and all young people of the Archdiocese!

Some have wondered if I will come back. Yes, I will be returning to the OYM in August after making final vows on August 15th! Until then, let us "Rejoice in hope, be patient under trial, and persevere in prayer." (Romans 12:12)

Editor's Note:
If you would like to contact Sr. Consolata, you may write to her at:

St. Francis Convent
2120 Central Ave
P.O. Box 9020
Alton, IL 62002-9020

How is your life?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 18 May 2007 09:39:47 -0500

Thank you Lord for the gift of life!

I find myself often beginning my prayer with this line of gratitude. Simple, yet packed. Life is a gift. How often do I take it for granted?

Health is a gift. How often do I take it for granted? Yeah, until something in my body starts to hurt. To walk, talk, listen, see, taste – simple movements that do not become so simple when I’m impaired in some way.

Taking care of my life, my health and my body is a responsibility entrusted to me. The Lord has a plan for this life He has given to me. In order to live out His will for as long as He desires I must take care of myself. Of course, He is the author of life and death and will call me home in His time, but I do not want it to be due to my poor choices!

What does this mean practically? Well, take a moment to ponder and answer these questions:

How am I living out a balanced life?
Do I make time for daily prayer?
What kind of food do I eat?
How many hours of sleep do I get a night?
How often do I exercise?
How do my actions reflect or not reflect that I am a temple of the Holy Spirit?

Whatever age we are, young or old, we may take life for granted. Let us begin each day with a prayer of gratitude and may our actions reflect this prayer!

I Want Success

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Wed, 04 Apr 2007 11:02:18 -0500

If you’re in ministry, then you do it. We’re all guilty, let’s admit it. Of what? We count numbers or ask others about theirs. If it’s not the first question we ask, then it’s at least in the top three.

“So, how was your youth night?” “Great!” “How many came?”

Our response can be one of a few:
“Well, only 5, but it was still a great night.” – I may be embarrassed that only 5 young people showed up, since of course this reflects how good of a youth minister I am.

“It was incredible! There were almost 50!” – I’m feeling pretty good about myself and how well the night went because the numbers tell me that it was successful.

“I don’t know. There were too many to count.” – I’m a little proud! (Well, maybe I shouldn’t say just a little.)

We fall into the trap of comparison, too. We start to compare our numbers with other youth ministers’ numbers of attendance. This will only lead to pride or despair. We will be proud of ourselves if our numbers are higher than others. Our thoughts will build up the pride of our ministry. OR We will go towards despair because our numbers are lower than others. Thoughts may tend toward questioning why young people are not coming or if we should continue. Either way – NOT GOOD!

Tell me how numbers equal success in your mind? Can you tell me how many young people encountered the Lord during your youth night, prayer night, retreat, day of service, or youth mass? Whether there are 5 or 50 youth attending, that’s where I would count the numbers of success. However, this statistic is a little harder to keep, don’t you think? How can I keep track of the power of the Holy Spirit in a young person’s soul? Isn’t this our goal in ministry? Isn’t this encounter with Jesus what we desire to happen? We can come up with some pretty cool programming in our eyes, but if it doesn’t lead to an encounter with God Himself, then what is it?: inflation of pride for us and a loss for the teens.

I know it’s not easy. I do it too. I count the numbers and then ask, “Why is no one coming?” If you fall into the trap of basing the success of your ministry on the number of attendees, I ask you to reexamine the goal of your ministry. Do not give up hope if your numbers are few and be wary of pride if your numbers are high. Following is a quote from God is Near Us by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (now Pope Benedict XVI), emphasis added:

Did Jesus fail? Well, he certainly was not successful in the same sense as Caesar or Alexander the Great. From the worldly point of view, he did fail in the first instance: he died almost abandoned; he was condemned on account of his preaching. The response to his message was not the great Yes of his people, but the Cross. From such an end as that, we should conclude that Success is definitely not one of the names of God and that it is not Christian to have an eye to outward success or numbers. God’s paths are other than that: his success comes about through the Cross and is always found under that sign. The true witnesses to his authenticity, down through the centuries, are those who have accepted this sign as their emblem.

Do you feel like you fail when no one or very few show up to a night you spent hours planning? Look to the Cross. In the eyes of others Jesus failed, but we know and believe that He succeeded in gaining our salvation. Let us strive to define Success in ministry under the Cross.

I am the Nap Queen

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 10:26:56 -0500

Yes, I love to sleep and I have for a loooong time. Just ask my Mom! (I think it’s genetic, ‘cause the whole family likes to sleep!) I remember the days of sleeping in ‘till noon or one. Or those rainy afternoons on a school day wrapped up in a comfy blanket taking a nap. Oh the memories…or are they?

I may not sleep in that late anymore (try rising at 4:30am) or curl up for a daily afternoon snooze, but the “nap” occurs when I least desire it to happen. Yes, during morning meditation it seems I’m resting with the Lord on nearly a daily basis. Okay, I’ll be honest. It doesn’t just seem like it; it’s a fact.

This resting with the Lord in prayer started long before I entered the convent, so why did I think it would end afterwards? Maybe I was just hoping it would! My frustration with this fact lessened one day when I was a postulant working down in our day care center.

One morning I was holding a sleeping baby. Have you ever held a baby asleep in your arms? Do you try to wake them up? Of course not! Don’t you just love them as they are? Then it hit me: this was like me. I was in the arms of the Father everyday that I fell asleep during prayer. Yes, He was loving me, His child, as I slept. I have come to learn that He is holding me and I am safe in His arms of love.

Now, let’s make one thing clear: I am not telling you to go to pray with the intention of taking a nap. If it happens, don’t be hard on yourself, but the intention to go take a nap is different than the intention to go encounter the Lord through prayer. Each one of us deals with different distractions during prayer – our own thoughts, other people, noise, _ (fill in the blank). Remember, you do not have to “start over” in your prayer when you recognize you are distracted, but just re-focus and continue. So, what do I do when I fall asleep? Well, first I have to wake up and when I do I thank the Lord for the rest! It’s much more helpful to give thanks than to get frustrated that I fell asleep…again! Try, try again! Then I just continue where I left off before the sleep took over, I converse with the Lord.

So do not get discouraged in prayer dear friends! “Rejoice in hope, be patient under trial, persevere in prayer.” (Romans 12:12) If you don’t hear the Lord speak in the morning, I advise you to not lose hope. You may hear His voice later in the day. Be attentive, for He speaks in various ways!

May He speak to your heart this Christmas and throughout the Christmas Octave. Whether it be through song, silence, scripture, or a short snooze may you be open to the Lord’s message for YOU. I hope to be taking only one kind of nap this year on Christmas. You know, the kind where I choose to do so. But to tell you the truth, I’ll probably be taking two kinds of naps on Christmas and I’ll just have to remember that I am resting in the arms of the Father!

I'm Tasteless!

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 17:09:13 -0500

So, maybe it's been said that I have no taste, since I wear the same thing everyday. Are you one of those "fashion police" who monitor what people wear? Do you put people in categories according to "having taste" or "no taste" at all? Or maybe you don't even notice.

I must say that I don't always notice the stares or comments about my own "taste" for fashion and other times it is quite obvious what people think by the way they look. So, now that I've gone off on a tangent, I really want to talk about a different kind of taste. Our taste buds!

Recently I had ear surgery (and boy is there a difference…another topic for a different day) and one of the side effects was loss of taste. Let me tell you, if you ever lose your taste, don't ever eat an orange! Imagine the texture of an orange in your mouth WITHOUT the flavor. Yea, not too nice! I know. I never realized how much my taste buds did until I lost them. Oh, they've come back some, but food still is a little bland. What's my litmus test? Chocolate! I'd say I'm at about a 3. I do keep trying, testing it out, in hopes that it has returned, but no luck yet.

Does this lack of taste keep me from eating? No. When you think about it, do I really have a choice? No. We need food and liquid to survive so I will continue to eat and drink to live. Where am I going with this? You do know by now, if you've read anything I've written, that I try (I said try) to have a point.

So, just like I need to keep eating, without tasting, to survive, I need to keep praying even if I don't feel anything or experience anything. Eating is essential to physical nourishment and praying is essential to spiritual nourishment. Oh, another thought is directly related to the Eucharist and this involves eating too! When I receive the Eucharist at mass I do not physically see the Body and Blood of Christ, but I believe He is truly present. FAITH! Just because I do not feel anything in prayer or see anything at mass, does this keep me from praying or receiving the Eucharist? No. Just like I continue to eat without tasting because I need it, I will continue to be transformed by the grace in prayer and the sacraments even though I cannot feel or see it…simply because I need it!

Today I encourage you to step out in faith to pray despite feelings and receive without seeing! Let me know how it goes! I’d love to hear about it!

Tears of Love

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 15 Sep 2006 13:43:47 -0500

A broken bone. Sarcastic words that pierce the heart.

A friend is diagnosed with cancer.

Losing a job. A migraine headache.

A parent falls and breaks her hip.

The silent treatment. Anger and bitterness.

Car accident that takes a life.

Crowned with thorns. Spit upon. Slapped in the face.

A Child crucified to save the world.

Tears of love fall to the ground.

Watching in silence, our Sorrowful Mother shared in the suffering of her Son as He died upon the cross. Imagine the pain and agony she must have experienced. Her heart was pierced to the core. She remained steadfast in love.

Pain and sorrow are a part of our life. We cannot escape it. We may have to watch a loved one suffer. We will experience the death of someone close. We may be the one suffering from an illness.

Let us not lose hope, but remain with Mary at the foot of the cross. With her, may we learn how to love, to accept, and to be transformed in uniting our pains, our agonies, and our sufferings with her Son, Jesus. Let us join our tears with hers. Let us remain in her arms of love and remember that she is our Mother too.

As we celebrate the memorial of Our Sorrowful Mother today, I invite you to reflect on the Stabat Mater.

Dirty Diapers

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 25 Aug 2006 10:33:04 -0500

How many of you out there have changed a diaper? I’m sure many of you…especially you incredible moms who have done more than your fair share. Growing up as the oldest of 39 grandchildren, I have had my fair share as well.

I have to tell you a unique and first time experience that happened this summer. I get to go on home visit every 3 years and this was the year! I was blessed to spend two weeks in California with my parents, two sisters, their husbands, and children. Imagine a house filled with 6 children all age 4 and under! Let me tell you, there was A LOT of energy in that house and a lot of fun and laughter too!

With one nephew and five nieces there was always one to give attention to or one who was seeking out the attention. One morning as I headed back to the family room my sister Rebecca called out, “Grace wants you to change her poopy diaper!” There was Grace, 2 years old, sucking her two fingers looking up at me with her big brown eyes.

“Mommy change your diaper?” Grace shook her head no and pointed at me. “Nina change your diaper?” Again the head shaking no while her little finger pointed at me. “Grandma change your diaper?” “No, Tia change my diaper!” said Grace with a smile. (The little ones call me Tia which is Spanish for aunt.) Well, I don’t think I had much of a choice at this point and I didn’t mind. She happily lay on the ground and had her diaper changed. “You know you’ve made it with a 2-year old when they want you to change their diaper,” my Mom said. Good point! I didn’t have to wonder whether Grace knew who “Tia” was anymore. We had bonded!

Different things have crossed my mind as I’ve thought about this experience. To be chosen, what does that mean? Chosen to change a diaper! Of course my sister didn’t mind. It was one less diaper she had to change! We are all chosen to do different things throughout our lives. Some things maybe we enjoy doing, some may just be routine, and others we may be surprised or resistant at the asking. But there is something to be said about being chosen, regardless of what we think about the task. Whatever it is, trust is exemplified from the one who has chosen us for the task. Grace trusted me to change her diaper.

This led me to think about who I trust in my life. Ultimately, the question is: Do I trust God with my sin? Do I allow Him to look at it and to wash it clean with His mercy, especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Do I search Him out and take the initiative to show Him my sin and have Him cleanse me? Like Grace did. She knew who she wanted to change her diaper and she sought me out. I need to go to the Father with my sin, choosing Him in trust, humility, and without fear to cleanse me and purify me. Sure, sometimes it would be easier to not go because of my own shame or embarrassment. But would it be very comfortable to stay in sin? Imagine if Grace didn’t have her diaper changed. How comfortable would it be to sit in a poopy diaper? Probably not too comfortable or scent free for very long!

I invite you today to go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation to receive His cleansing mercy and forgiveness. Get more comfortable…get out of sin!

The School Bus

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 13:37:38 -0500

This morning as I was driving to work I was following a school bus. One young boy turned around and looked out the window…and noticed me. Then the boy next to him turned around. I waved. One boy waved back. Then the ripple effect spread through the seats as boys started to stand up, heads and eyes searching for someone…me!

It certainly was interesting to watch: from the boy in the back seat who merely turned his head leaning against the seat, barely showing his eyes, to those standing and staring. It certainly made me smile.

Well, to their surprise I followed them onto the highway. Some distance got between us, but I could still them ahead. I was able to catch up with them right before my off ramp. One of the boys noticed me again and saw me approaching. I saw this big grin come over his face. I could just hear the words, “There she is! There she is! Do you see her?” Yes, the group of boys were standing again, staring out the window. I waved and smiled as they sped ahead and I turned off the highway, left with wondering what their thoughts were.

Of course there has to be a deeper meaning in it all! I couldn’t just leave you with a simple story, could I? (Well, I could…but won’t!)

It made me ask myself, “What do I stare and look at? What am I drawn to?” Beauty, goodness, truth, the Lord Himself. Am I aware of His presence? And do I look, seek, and search for Him? When there seems to be a distance between us am I still aware that He is there? And when I notice His presence again, am I just as eager, smiles and all, to see Him again? …like the enthusiasm and joy of those young boys.

We are about to enter into the incredible season of lent. It’s a journey to seek and to encounter the Lord, to be renewed, re-created, in Him. There may be times when we don’t recognize His presence, but let us keep vigilant in our seeking for Him. Then, we can smile with joy when we recognize His presence again!

So don’t give up this lent! Keep seeking! Keep searching! Keep reaching out to Him! Keep looking! He is present, whether we can see Him or not. Thank you to those young boys who were a witness of joy to me!

Messy smells

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 22 Dec 2005 16:42:08 -0500

About 10 years ago I was listening to someone talk about the birth of Jesus, specifically about the PLACE where He was born. I mean, think about it. Picture it.

In a stable with animals.

Can you picture what it looks like? What do you see? What do you smell?

Now how many of you have ever been in a stable that doesn’t have numerous smells? Are they clean? In fact, as this person was giving us a description of the stable to imagine, he included one thing that many do not mention: to use his word, “crap”. Yep, I’m sure you didn’t expect me to say that. (Please excuse the language.) Yep, that smells!

Yet, that’s where Jesus was born…and is born daily. He comes to us in the midst of our own “crap”, our sin, our messes, mistakes, messups and more. We try to push Him away. We don’t want Him to see the ugly, smelly, messy parts of our lives. We think everything has to be perfect before we let Him in. Many of us may think He doesn’t want to be a part of the ugly side of us. WRONG!!

Jesus was born in a stable surrounded by animals and smells. He wants to be born and invited into the “smelly” parts of our lives. Don’t wait until everything is perfect, ‘cause you’ll be waiting a long time. Let Him in now and He can transform those smells to scents of beauty. Let Him wash you clean in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Many times what people say go in one ear and out the other, but I’ve held onto this thought for ten years. Thanks Christopher for telling us that Jesus wants to be a part of our messy lives.

So, what are you waiting for? Go to the stable this Christmas, the stable of your heart, and let Jesus in!

Thrown for a loop

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Mon, 07 Nov 2005 17:26:27 -0500

Did I tell you that just a few months ago I almost found myself sprawled out on a cafeteria floor? I’m sure you would have liked to have been there to see that!

Well, you see, I was just standing there in the middle of the cafeteria minding my own business when…out of the blue I was pummeled into from the side, not seeing them coming (or obviously I would have gotten out of the way!). My hand automatically flung out to grab the nearest arm to hold onto so I wouldn’t fall down. Luckily, there was a forearm within reach and I dragged this woman with me for a few steps. If it wasn’t for this strong arm of support I would have been saying hello to some linoleum close up!

I didn’t know what hit me until I turned around and saw the looks of shock and guilt on the faces of two men. Wrestling! That’s all they were doing! No big deal!

After apologies and MUCH gratitude that this woman was standing nearby, I pondered this whole scene. You never know when someone is going to run into you. You never know when something is going to catch you off guard. You never know completely the plan of God! I never know the full story of each day and what events are going to come.

What was my response? Throwing out my hand to grab support! What is my response when something happens unexpectedly? What is your response? Do you reach out for the support of Jesus? Do you cling to Him? What or who do you reach for?

Jesus is my sure foundation and if I didn’t have Him during times of unexpected news or events, I would fall, GUARANTEED! So, the next time you’re thrown a curve ball or someone tries to knock you off your feet…reach out to Jesus! He will hold you up!

Mama

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 15 Sep 2005 08:51:01 -0500

Isn’t it precious to see a small baby in the arms of her/his mother? Do you remember times when your mom just wrapped her arms around you in a big hug? Do you ever remember seeing your mom cry…because she loved you so much?

Today we celebrate Our Lady of Sorrows, the day after celebrating the feast of the Triumph of the Cross. Mary stood at the foot of the cross. She remained close to her Son in His final hours of agony and death. Love pierced her heart.

Sometimes it’s hard to imagine what Mary must have been experiencing there at the foot of the cross. Don’t you think she could have used a hug? Don’t you think she will hold you in your moments of being at “the foot of the cross”? She knows what it’s like to be a mom. Just like our moms held us as children and embraced us with a hug, Mary is our mother, our mama, as I like to call her, too. We can go to her as our mother and rest in her arms too!

Today may you meet her at the foot of the cross. May you comfort her…and may she comfort you…with or without words!

What's your attitude?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Mon, 27 Jun 2005 09:36:20 -0500

Simply put: I am blessed! Why, you ask? Well, I could make you a long list, but today I am especially thinking about my (blood) sister, Rebecca. You see, today is her birthday!

Today I give thanks for the gift of her life and the blessing she has been to me! I wish you all could meet her because she is one humorous, beautiful, intelligent, kind, and loving woman of God! She is an example of selfless giving to her husband and children! She certainly has the gift of being a mother! And she has always had the gift of making me laugh!

So, what are you grateful for today? Make it simple: the smile of another, the sunshine, your health, a friend, your(fill in the blank)! Sometimes we forget to have “an attitude of gratitude.”

So, whatever you are experiencing today, STOP and take a moment to give thanks, for the little things.

JUST?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 27 May 2005 14:15:46 -0500

Have your teens ever been asked to clean up after every parish event?

Have you ever shown up for a prayer night only to find that another group is already occupying your space?

Have you ever been given one price quote only to show up at a retreat site to find out you will now be paying twice as much?

Sometimes events occur in our lives that appear to be unjust. We ask ourselves “Why” or think “I just don’t understand” or “I just don’t get it.” “It’s just not fair.” Well, I’ve come to realize that most likely I will never fully understand some things. Sometimes my prayer is only “Why” and there may not be an answer. It becomes a matter of surrender and trust and “Help me Lord!”

If you’re in the midst of experiencing some “unjust” situations or events I pray you may find some solace in the following quote…and remember…you’re not alone!

By praying before the Crucified Christ, you will receive the answer to the question: Why do I suffer injustices in my life? You will understand that God can permit something unjust, from a human point of view, to happen to you - because God sees things differently than men. The human injustice that you confront may be something just in God’s eyes.
(In the Arms of Mary, pg. 33)

Jesus girls

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Wed, 20 Apr 2005 13:53:58 -0500

Wearing a habit I often get many “looks” and “stares” and sometimes comments. Although some comments may not be the most kind (to put it nicely), most just make me smile.

Here’s one cute example:

A few weeks ago I was in the airport with another Sister. As we were standing with our luggage, a mom walked by with her children. She proceeded to tell us that when her daughter (she looked about 3 or 4 years old) saw us she said, “Look, Mom…two Jesus girls!” This was certainly a new one! As they walked away, the little girl kept turning around to look at us. We just kept smiling and waving.

Yep, I guess I am a Jesus girl. The comments that little ones come up with usually hit home because they are simple and true. She reminded me that I have given my life for Jesus.

Everytime I get a “look”, a “stare” or a comment because of what I am wearing, I am reminded that it’s not about me. It HAS to be about HIM! He is the ONE I need to bring to others. The habit alone can’t do this…but a constant conversion of my heart…so that I truly can be a ‘Jesus girl.’

The CHOICE is yours

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 24 Mar 2005 15:49:08 -0500

From the washing of feet, institution of the Eucharist and priesthood on Holy Thursday to the humility, love, sacrifice and obedience witnessed on Good Friday to the light, hope, and joy of the Easter Vigil, there is much to participate in during these holy days.

The question is to look at your attitude, my attitude, during this incredible liturgy filled with so much meaning! Am I thinking about how long the evening or afternoon will be and just “getting through” to Easter Sunday? Or…am I present to the words and actions? Do I want a personal encounter with Christ?

Do I hear the call to service as the priest washes feet on Holy Thursday? After celebrating the Passover meal with his apostles, do I accompany Jesus to his agony in the garden? Do I heed his call to “keep watch with him?”

As difficult as it may be, do I journey with Jesus to Calvary? Do I rise with him after he falls underneath the cross? Do I silence my heart to listen and to accept his love…spoken through his actions? Do I sit with Mary at the foot of the cross? Will I walk to place Jesus in the tomb?

Do you experience a longing in your heart on Holy Saturday? Yes, the Easter Vigil finally arrives! Light bursts into the darkness! The power of the Resurrection! So maybe the readings seem long, but I invite you to LISTEN to the words, the stories that tell the history of salvation. Will you sing the Alleluia with all your heart? Are you filled with the joy of the resurrection? What do you see at the empty tomb? Will you run to carry the good news like Mary Magdalen?

You have a CHOICE ahead of you!

Will you choose to enter into and participate in the liturgy these next days? OR will you just let it slip by because you just can’t wait until Easter Sunday morning? Remember…we can’t have the resurrection without the crucifixion. Let us journey together with Christ: from the Last Supper to His passion to His resurrection.

Open your heart to Him and you will be amazed! SHOW HIM YOUR LOVE and LET HIM LOVE YOU!

Shamrocks, beer, corned beef and cabbage

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 17 Mar 2005 15:26:42 -0500

Yes, today is St. Patrick’s Day and what do most people think of? Shamrocks, beer, corned beef and cabbage! We also see a lot of green everywhere. What about the man behind the day, St. Patrick himself?

One interesting fact, did you know he himself was not even Irish? He evangelized and served the Irish people! Early in life, he knew what it was like to be a slave. Later, St. Patrick lived a life dedicated to the Lord as a priest and bishop spreading the good news of Christ in Ireland. He actually returned to the place he had been taken to! What courage and faith to do that! May his life and example be an inspiration for each one of us to not be afraid to be a witness of God’s love.

St. Patrick’s day is a special day for me personally, not only because I have a little Irish in me, but because my father’s name is Patrick. I give thanks today for my Dad and his example of courage in living out his faith after the example of his patron. Way to go Dad!!

May we all be as courageous as St. Patrick to spread the good news of the gospel!

The Command

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 04 Mar 2005 09:18:57 -0500

What is the only day of the year that is a command?

March 4th!

Last night one of my fellow Sisters told us this. I had never heard of this before! So, I thought I would share it with you.

Okay, so maybe you didn’t laugh and are asking what’s the point? This isn’t my usual style to blogs, you say.

Well, I have to keep you on your toes…and as I think about it I’m sure I can come up with something!

What is usual about me is asking questions: What keeps you marching forth? Where are you marching to? What is your ultimate goal? Who’s commands are you listening to?

In the gospel for today Jesus tells us that the greatest commandment is “…to love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:30-31)

So, I encourage you to take action and “march forth” today to love the Lord your God and your neighbor with everything you’ve got!

Are you in love?

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Fri, 18 Feb 2005 08:48:37 -0500

Are you in love?

With who?

Why?

Are your thoughts consumed with this person ALL THE TIME?

Do you spend time with the one you love?

How well do you know this person?

Think about your answers to these questions.

Then, read this quote I came across last night by Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJ:

“Nothing is more practical than finding God, i.e. than falling in love in a quite absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you will do with your evenings, how you spend your weekends, what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with joy and gratitude. Fall in love, stay in love, and it will decide everything.”

Don’t you agree? Honestly, I was struck by the line, “what will get you out of bed in the morning.” You see, I’m someone who enjoys sleep. Obviously, I need it too! When I was visiting the convent before I entered I did wonder how I would be able to get up so early. (For those of you who do not know, we get up at 4:30 am.) No more sleeping in on Saturdays! Yet, the Lord’s call is greater! Yes, HE is the one who motivates me to get up in the morning. (Praying with community does too…I think they would notice if I didn’t show up!) His love has captured my heart, so I choose to follow where He leads…even if this means getting up early!

So, what motivates you to get up in the morning? How you spend your time? Who you know? And what you do? Have you fallen in love with the Lord? Will you allow Him to affect everything you do?

I invite you to fall in love this lent…with the One who has already fallen in love with YOU!!

A Baby's Grasp

Sr. M. Consolata Crews FSGM — Thu, 23 Dec 2004 15:33:30 -0500

From God is With Us:

Christ’s birth is the celebration of the great Emmanuel (God is with us) mystery. And God is with us so that we may know that we are infinitely loveable. To come as a baby was his first and greatest lesson to us, for it teaches us the most important lessons of all about God’s attitude towards us.

A child is full of freshness and trusting love. Its eyes are to the future - to growing up. Unspoiled by prejudice or bitterness, each child is a new beginning. A child’s loving confidence can make the greatest villain think again, and it can bring new life to the old and weary.

But the greatest lesson is one which we have all experienced when we have stretched out a tentative finger to a new baby - he or she grasps it with an uncanny strength. Stretch out just one finger to the Lord this Christmas and he will take strong hold of you for as long as you let him. (Liguori Publications)

That’s my prayer for you…that you may reach out to the Lord and let Him hold you…forever. May you know His love for you! Merry Christmas!