Metanoia

 Metanoia is a Greek word that means to change.  Usually it's used when talking about religion. It translate into repentance or conversion.  St. Augustine experienced metanoia when he converted to Christianity. 

I believe we can change history with prayer.  This is why I'm asking everyone to pray for a Christmas Truce from December 25--January 19.  God makes history but the future depends on what we do know and know we pray.

 Please pray for a Christmas Truce in Ukraine.  As a people of faith and conscience, we pray for peace, at least for this sacred time of the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Please pray for Pope Francis and Patriarch Krill to call for a cessation of war from Christmas to "Little Christmas", January 7.

   This was done during the First World War. We urge all leaders, government and spiritual leaders, to take a leading role in bringing the war in Ukraine to an end through supporting calls for a ceasefire and negotiated settlement.

    We ask this through Jesus, Our Lord, Savior, and Redeemer.

From Paranoia to Metanoia

From Paranoia to Metanoia: Father Ron Rolheiser explains metanoia in this article.

Stop, Look, Be Aware

Window - Milton Hospital 

Father Kevin added new insight to this morning's Gospel (Matt. 4: 12-23).  This is where the common phrase, "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand," comes from.  Father said that the translated word, repent, is debated.  Repent comes from the Greek word, metanoia.  Some think that metanoia would be better translated in English as "convert," meaning to turn towards.  I like Father Kevin's translation.

"To hell with the past."  (No, Father didn't say that.)  Once you turn toward the light, toward God, is where your world will open up.  Everything is viewed through different eyes.

You see God's hands in events.  You see miracles in everyday occurrences.  You see God in people.  You get the idea?

If you've experienced this metanoia you know what I say is true.  Otherwise, it's like trying to "talk to a stranger about rock n' roll."

There is no need to go to Medjugorje, or Fatima, or Lourdes.  You don't have to go to Milton, MA to see Our Blessed Mother in a window.  You don't have to travel to a Tibetan mountaintop to visit with a guru.

All you have to do is look around you.