CTF – SOS DRS Wajir Mission Accomplished

Mary, CTF volunteer nurse bade goodbye to a Somalian elder.

KENYA – On the 4th of July, the Camillians in Wajir, Northeast Kenya packed their bags and came home to Nairobi after they have accomplished their humanitarian mission of bringing relief and initiating recovery to the Somalian populace of the said region. They were there since August 2011 as the core team of the Camillian Task Force (CTF) – Kenya, a humanitarian mission office of the Order, headed by Bro. Joseph Khiyaniri, MI together with the Camillian Sisters and five other volunteers under the guidance of CTF – Rome.

In 2011, the Horn of Africa particularly Kenya had faced a severe food crisis due to long dry spell and mass evacuations of Somalians to Kenya due to civil war. A combination of drought-induced crop failure, poor livestock conditions, rising food and non-food prices and eroded coping capacities were some of the key factors contributing to the food crisis, which has made 3.75 million people in Kenya food insecure. An estimated of 385,000 children under 5 years old and 90,000 pregnant and lactating women were suffering from acute malnutrition.

Responding to the call of the Church to bring relief to the victims, the Camillian Task Force (CTF), Rome sent a team to the diocese of Garissa on August 2011, to conduct assessment and implement programs of intervention. Programs were implemented immediately until June 2013 in Wajir. The project was funded by CEI – Comitato per gli Interventi Caritativi  a favore del Terzo Mondo, Caritas Italiana, PROSA, ISOLANA, SOS DRS, and the Camillians (men and women communities).

The project was divided into two phases: relief (6 months) and rehabilitation (1 year). The first phase had focused on health and nutrition program through mobile clinics and food distribution, and water access provision. The second phase had focused on building capacities of people and community resilience through food security (greenhouse farming), community-based health care (training of health care workers and mobile clinics), and public sanitation programs (building of ecological sanitary – ECOSAN toilets). All these programs have benefited 9 villages and thousands of muslim families (Somalian refugees) in Wajir.

The said project has terminated on June 30. It was able to achieve its primary objective which is bridging muslim and Christian communities in Wajir to achieve peace, self-reliance and resiliency. Most of the village chiefs and local government representatives had given high regard and recommendation to the project. A village chief of Hodan, Wajir said: “I have never seen a group like the CTF in Wajir who really helped us so much not simply by giving more dole outs but really working, caring and listening to us. CTF, we are with you and don’t leave us.” CTF has applied pastoral care in emergency approach and worked closely with the diocese. It uses the strategy of grassroot participation in planning, decision-making and implementation of programs. This method has made a deep impact on the Somalian beneficiaries and communities, and it also challenges other humanitarian organizations to engage in programs that overcome and transform the culture of dependency to a culture of self-reliance and resiliency. These communities have been depending on food aid for the past ten years, and now they were able to prove that they can produce food in the desert as an alternative source to pasturing.

Mons. Paul Darmanin had expressed his deep gratitude and commendation of what the CTF has done to his diocese and at the same time has pleaded the CTF to continue its efforts. The CTF has promised to follow up what has been started in Wajir in order to assure sustainability of the programs in the next two years.

CTF India’s Mission

On June 16, 2013, the heaviest rainfall on record lashed India’s Himalayan region of Uttarakhand forcing glacier lakes and rivers to overflow and inundate towns and villages in 168 districts at about 37,000 square kilometer area. The state of Uttarakhand has been experiencing heavy rains continuously for 2 days and the downpour has caused flash floods and landslides in various places like Srinagar, Joshimath, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Govindghat, Kedarnath, Gaurikund and Uttarkashi, etc. and caused the destruction of houses, roads, communication and transportation. According to unofficial reports damaged to life has reached around 14,000 deaths and recently, authorities say that the 5,748 people registered as missing are now “presumed dead” – making the disaster the deadliest ever in the Himalayas. Some of them were Hindu pilgrims as they celebrated Chardam Yatra (Hindu feast). Hundreds of buildings including 40 hotels situated along the bank river Alakananda, more than 100 roads and 40 bridges are swept away by the flood waters.

In the field of disaster management it is only through a collective responsibility and effort of the public, voluntary organizations and local government agencies that we can attain our expected outcome in our relief activities. Recognizing this reality, the new administration of the Camillian Indian Province has decided to become a consoling hands among the victims of flood-ravaged Uttarakhand. Last July, the Camillian Task Force (CTF) of India lead by  Fr. Siby Kaitharan, MI and two other Camillian religious (Fr. Jaison and Fr. Sojan) together with some members of the Catholic Health Association of India (CHAI) went to Uttarakhand, distributed relief goods and conducted a rapid assessments of needs for about two weeks in preparation for a long term intervention plan.  This August 3, the first batch (13 volunteers) of the CTF team lead by three Camillians (Bro. Madhu, Fr. Teji, Fr. Jofree) pushed back to Uttarakhand to begin the relief and rehabilitation program. They are ready with eager minds to render services to the flood victims in some districts of Uttarakhand. The relief and rehabilitation programs will be executed in two phases: 1] to meet the immediate needs of the victims such as food, temporary shelter and clothing within 3 months; 2] to respond to the social needs, strengthen psychosocial support and build permanent shelter of survivors.

Program Objectives

1. To supply food and water in the relief camps;       
2. To provide medical services to affected people; and
3. To provide temporary shelter to those who are stranded and permanent shelter to resident survivors whose house were completely damaged.

Priorities 

Potable Water

Streams and rivers have been contaminated and turbid and not safe for human consumption. Primary water source facilities were damaged and people has to walk for long distances to get water. The survivors have no dry wood to boil the water. Thus potable water, water treatment facility and repair of water sources are urgent needs.

Medical care service and sanitation facilities

Many people are at risk with various illnesses and contaminations. Most of the families have no or lost their sanitation facilities. In some villages, only the upper caste families have latrines whereas the lower caste (poor people) practice open defecation near the water sources which brings the risk of oral-fecal contamination. Thus, medical service and prevention of transmission of diseases are badly needed.

Shelter

Affected populace are living in temporary makeshifts that exposed them to harsh weather conditions. People living along the rivers has moved up to higher grounds or lived with their relatives whose houses are small and pose a danger of disease transmission due to congestion. Majority have lost their sources of income and have nothing to rebuild their houses or to rent temporarily. CTF India team has identified Simlakala (village) where 107 families have lost all their properties and shelters but not all received help. At present, they are staying along the roads using plastic tents. They are planning to find a safe place in order to build permanent houses (50) for underserved families.

Appeal for Help

 The disaster of Uttarakhand is a national tragedy affecting a large number of people. The religious along with the rest of the Church are deeply moved by this tragedy and responds with prayer and action to support the victims. The most affected area is the diocese of Bijnor. Fr. Siby, CTF India coordinator said: “We are closely collaborating with the Diocesan authorities and getting involve in their intervention activities. Thousands have died, lost their houses and livelihood; thousands of unidentified dead bodies are found and thousands are still missing. It takes a long time to build their life back to normalcy. We appeal to everybody to support this cause with their prayers and financial contributions according to their means and possibilities. We shall ensure that whatever financial aid you may like to provide through the CTF-India reaches to the people for whom it is intended to.”

Fr. Scott Francis Steps Down from the Presidency of SOS DRS

Dear Friends in Christ,

Salus et pax. I pray you are well.

Please take the time to read about my recent decision to step down from the presidency of SOS DRS.

Oremus pro pontifice. Oremus pro ecclesia. Oremus pro invicem.

In Christ, through Mary – Fr. Scott Francis

World Mission Rosary Intentions: December 17 – 30, 2012

World Mission Rosary Intentions

December 17 – 30, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.”

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English; Spanish; Italian

Print the Intentions!

Sign up to receive via e-mail our WMR intentions, newsletter and updates

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Maria Goretti, the Patron Saint of Rape Victims, may come to the aid of those affected by rape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Rape Map of Democratic Republic of the Congo Extract from: UN alleges rapes in DR Congo unrest: “The UN has accused government troops and M23 rebels of raping and killing civilians and looting towns during battles in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo last month. The United Nations said on Friday that UN investigators had confirmed that M23 rebels and government troops had committed serious abuses in their battle for control of mineral-rich North Kivu province and its capital Goma. The investigations indicate that Congolese army soldiers committed rapes, looting and other human rights violations after they retreated from Goma following its capture by M23 rebels. The UN mission could not confirm reports that 72 rapes were committed in the Minova area, about 60 kilometres (40 miles) south of Goma, but its initial investigation found that several violations, including rape and looting, were committed by Congolese army elements, UN deputy spokesman Eduardo del Buey said. ‘Preliminary investigations by MONUSCO indicate that several human rights violations, including rape and looting, were committed by FARDC (Congolese army) elements (in Minova),’ del Buey told reporters in New York. ‘MONUSCO cannot confirm the reported figure of 72 rapes but is on the ground conducting further investigations,’ he said.” See also: U.N. Confirms Rapes in DR Congo Unrest, Why eastern DR Congo is ‘rape capital of the world’, UN investigates rapes in DR Congo unrest. Videos: Rape in a lawless land.

Saint Maria Goretti: Patron Saint of Rape Victims (Feast Date: July 6) Extract from Saint Maria Goretti:  Beautiful, pious farm girl, one of six children of Luigi Goretti and Assunta Carlini. . . . the family was forced to move onto the Serenelli farm to survive.  In 1902 at age twelve, Maria was attacked by 19-year-old farm-hand Alessandro Serenelli. He tried to rape the girl who fought, yelled that it was a sin, and that he would go to hell. He tried to choke her into submission, then stabbed her fourteen times. She survived in hospital for two days, forgave her attacker, asked God’s forgiveness of him, and died holding a crucifix and medal of Our Lady. The vision of Maria in a dream led to Alessandro’s conversion, and he later testified at her cause for beatification.” See pictures of Saint Maria Goretti,  July 6 – Saint Maria Goretti: Patron Saint of Rape Victims, Official Prayers to Saint Maria Goretti and video: Saint Maria Goretti. See also: July 6 – Saint Maria Goretti: Patron Saint of Rape Victims.

Oceania (Blue Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Francis Xavier, the Patron Saint of New Zealand, may come to the aid of those affected by the rare tornado in Auckland, New Zealand. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster: Tornado  Map of New Zealand Extract from Rare tornado kills 3 in New Zealand’s largest city: “An unusually destructive tornado swept through neighborhoods around New Zealand’s largest city Thursday, killing three people and forcing 250 more to evacuate damaged and powerless homes. The small tornado hit Hobsonville and Whenuapai, western suburbs of Auckland, during a midday storm that also uprooted trees, damaged buildings and caused flooding that closed roads. Authorities said that as well as those who died, seven people suffering a range of injuries were admitted to hospitals. Thursday’s tornado was the deadliest in New Zealand in more than 60 years. Although the country reports about seven tornados on average each year, most are small, mild and do little damage. New Zealand’s temperate maritime climate means it isn’t prone to the large, destructive tornados that plague places like the American Midwest. Auckland Council spokesman Glyn Walters said the storm made about 150 homes uninhabitable. He said some of those homes had roofs torn off or were severely damaged while others had more minor damage or had lost power. He said 250 residents were taken to an air force base at Whenuapai, where council staff and welfare workers were assisting them.” See also: New Zealand tornado: freak storm hits Auckland suburb, Tornado hits small West Coast town, Rare tornado kills three in New Zealand. VIDEOS: Deadly, rare tornado hits New Zealand, Three dead as tornado strikes New Zealand city.

Saint Francis Xavier: Patron Saint of New Zealand (Feast Date: December 3) Extract from Saint Francis Xavier: “Tremendously successful missionary for ten years in India, the East Indies, and Japan, baptizing more than 40,000 converts. His epic finds him dining with head hunters, washing the sores of lepers in Venice, teaching catechism to Indian children, baptizing 10,000 in a single month. He tolerated the most appalling conditions on long sea voyages, enduring extremes of heat and cold. Wherever he went he would seek out and help the poor and forgotten. He traveled thousands of miles, most on his bare feet, and he saw the greater part of the Far East. Had the gift of tongues. Miracle worker. Raised people from the dead. Calmed storms. Prophet. Healer.” See picture of Saint Francis Xavier. See also: December 3 – Saint Francis Xavier: Patron Saint of Missionaries, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Indianapolis, Apostleship of Prayer, and Against Epidemics.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Peter Gonzalez, the Patron Saint of Mariners, may come to the aid of those affected by the shipwreck in the North Sea.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Baltic Ace Car Carrier Collision with Corvus J. Map of Netherlands Extract from Baltic Ace Sinking: Body Found in North Sea Search for Seven Missing Crew: “One of the seven crew missing after the Baltic Ace cargo ship sank yesterday has been found dead in the North Sea by search and rescue teams. This brings the confirmed death toll to five. The other six crew members are presumed dead, but the search for their bodies continues. The Baltic Ace ship, which was carrying cars, collided with the Corvus J in the North Sea 40 miles from the Dutch coast last night. Crew members from the Baltic Ace were forced to abandon ship after it started to sink quickly. The Corvus J was badly damaged but did not sink. None of its crew were harmed. Four people from the Baltic Ace were confirmed dead and 13 other were rescued. A further seven were missing and the coast guard called off the search for them at 2.00am. They resumed the search this morning, but were looking for bodies rather than survivors. The crew members were from Bulgaria, Poland, Ukraine and the Philippines. Two of those confirmed dead and three of the missing men are believed to be Polish. The captain, who was also Polish, survived.” See also: Ships collide in North Sea, killing 4, Baltic Ace, Cargo Ship, Sinks In North Sea After Colliding With Another Vessel, Baltic Ace death toll. VIDEO: Baltic Ace shipwreck: Dutch coastguards call off search.

Saint Peter Gonzalez: Patron Saint of Mariners (Feast Dates: April 14) Extract from Bl. Peter Gonzales: “Peter Gonzales, also known as St. Elmo or St. Telmo, was born to a Castilian family of nobility. He was educated by his uncle, the Bishop of Astorga, named canon of the local cathedral, famous for his penances and mortifications, joined the Dominican Order, preached and made chaplain of the court of King St. Ferdinand III. He converted and influenced the soldiers of his country, evangelized, and died on Easter Sunday. He was canonized by Pope Benedict XIV in 1741. Peter evangelized throughout his country and all along the coast. He had a special fondness for sailors. He used to visit them aboard their ships, preaching the Gospel and praying for their needs.” See PICTURE of St. Peter Gonzales. See also April 14 – Saint Peter Gonzales: Patron Saint of Mariners.

America (Red Beads)    

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Loreto, the Patron Saint of Aviation, may come to the aid of those affected by the Jenni Rivera Learjet accident near Monterrey, Mexico, and plane accidents elsewhere.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Disaster: Map of Mexico Extract from U.S.-Mexican singer Jenni Rivera dies in plane crash: “Mexican-American singer Jenni Rivera died in a plane crash after the small jet she was travelling in went down in northern Mexico, her father said on Sunday. A spokesman for the state government of Nuevo Leon said investigators had found the remains of Rivera’s Learjet, which disappeared from the radar 62 miles from the northern city of Monterrey at about 3:30 a.m. local time/4.30 a.m. EST. Speaking after the wreckage was discovered, the singer’s father, Pedro Rivera, told Telemundo television all seven of the people on board the plane, including two pilots, had died. ‘Everyone was lost,’ Rivera said, flanked by two sons. Investigators are still searching the crash site in the municipality of Iturbide, south of Monterrey. The transportation and communications ministry said the wreckage was strewn so far and wide that it was hard to recognize anything. It was not clear what caused the crash.” See also: Rivera death: US to help plane crash investigation, Accident & Incident Data.
VIDEOS: Jenni Rivera’s plane plunged from 28,000 feet, Mexican official says, Jenni Rivera, Latin music star, dies in plane crash. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of Loreto, the Patron Saint of Aviation (Feast Dates: May 9, November 10, December 10) Extract from Our Lady of Loreto The Holy House of Nazareth: “December 10th, 1294, in the area of Loreto, Italy (across the Adriatic Sea and southwest of Tersatto,) shepherds reported seeing a house in the sky, flying across the sea, supported by Angels. They reported, one of the Angels (Michael) wore a red cape, and seemed to be leading the others. They saw Our Lady and the Baby Jesus seated on top of the house. The Angels continued inland, about four miles, and landed with their precious house and its Royal Passengers into a wooded area called Banderuola. The news spread, quickly drawing many people to pilgrimage to the House in Banderuola. But they were not all working on the same agenda. Robbers came to waylay, rob, and beat the pilgrims. The faithful stopped coming, and the house quickly fell into neglect. The Angels, who had been put in charge of protecting the House, lifted it again and set it down on a small hill in the middle of a farm. The only problem was, this land was owned by two brothers, named Antici, who began fighting immediately over ownership of the house. So the Angels moved the house, a third time, to another hill. This time they placed it down on the middle of a road, the site it occupies now, and has for the last 700 years. Tradition tells us that as soon as the house moved off the brothers’ property, they became the best of friends. The Angels had moved the Holy House three times in one year.” See also: May 9, November 10, December 10 – Our Lady of Loreto: Patron Saint of Italy and of Aviation, NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF LORETO.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Rose of Lima, the Patron Saint of the Philippines, may come to the aid of those affected by Typhoon Bopha in that country. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Typhoon Bopha Map of Philippines Extract from Death Toll From Typhoon Exceeds 450 in Philippines, “The death toll from the typhoon that tore through the southern Philippines this week rose past 450 on Friday with over 500 still missing, and there were assertions that climate change, deforestation, poor planning and other factors had worsened the catastrophe. The government’s main disaster agency said Friday afternoon that 456 people were known to have been killed by Typhoon Bopha, with 533 people missing and 445 injured. Local officials estimated that the final death toll would exceeded 500. About 393,000 people were said to be living temporarily in evacuation centers or receiving some other form of government assistance. Government officials said this week that storm patterns related to climate change had put communities unaccustomed to strong typhoons in Bopha’s path. But they also said the destruction had been exacerbated by deforestation from illegal logging and small-scale mining, as well as poor planning and confusion created by maps supposed of vulnerable areas. ‘I requested samples of the geohazard maps and even I couldn’t read them,’ Senator Loren Legarda, an outspoken proponent of disaster preparedness programs, said Friday in an interview.” See also: Typhoon in Philippines leaves nearly 300 dead, hundreds missing. VIDEOS: Typhoon Bopha carves across Philippines, killing scores of people, Philippines: Typhoon Bopha leaves over 270 dead, Typhoon Bopha: Death Toll Tops 350 In Philippines; Scores Missing In Worst-Hit Areas, Filipinos report food shortages after Typhoon Bopha, Philippines Mindanao island hit by Typhoon Bopha. CTF/SOS DRS Response to Disasters in Asia: 2011-10 Floods in Thailand, Pakistan,

Saint Rose of Lima: Patron Saint of the Philippines (Feast Dates: August 23, 30) Extract from Extract from SAINT ROSE OF LIMA, VIRGIN—1617: “Rose seems to have taken for her model St. Catherine of Siena, and, like the earlier saint, she experienced so ardent a love of God whenever she was in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament that exaltation completely filled her soul. Yet Rose was not without a practical side. Her father had been well-to-do, but when he lost money in mining ventures, the family’s fortunes reached a very low ebb. Rose helped out by selling her fine needlework; she also raised beautiful flowers and these too were taken to market. One of her brothers, Ferdinand, was sympathetic and understanding toward this sister who was so markedly “different.” As she grew to maturity, her parents were anxious to have Rose marry, and indeed there were several worthy aspirants for her hand. Rose did not wish marriage, and, to end the arguments and offers, she joined the Third Order of St. Dominic, donned the habit, and took a vow of perpetual virginity.” See PICTURES of St. Rose of Lima. See also: August 23, August 30 – Saint Rose of Lima: Patron Saint of the Americas, the Philippines, Peru, the West Indies, India, Latin America, Central America, PRAYERS to St. Rose of Lima.

Printable World Mission Rosary Intentions: December 17 – 30, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.” Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen    

Kreyol Version  

May Jesus Bless You!          ay y Jesus Bless Yo

General Rosary Intention:  That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Maria Goretti, the Patron Saint of Rape Victims, may come to the aid of those affected by rape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Francis Xavier, the Patron Saint of New Zealand, may come to the aid of those affected by the rare tornado in Auckland, New Zealand. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Peter Gonzalez, the Patron Saint of Mariners, may come to the aid of those affected by the shipwreck in the North Sea.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

America (Red Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Loreto, the Patron Saint of Aviation, may come to the aid of those affected by the Jenni Rivera Learjet accident near Monterrey, Mexico, and plane accidents elsewhere.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Rose of Lima, the Patron Saint of the Philippines, may come to the aid of those affected by Typhoon Bopha in that country. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

For the complete version of the CTF/SOS DRS World Mission Rosary Intentions and more information about our work and mission, visit http://www.ctfmercy.org

World Mission Rosary Intentions: December 3 – 16, 2012

World Mission Rosary Intentions

December 3 -December 16, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.”

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English; Spanish; Italian

Print the Intentions!

Sign up to receive via e-mail our WMR intentions, newsletter and updates

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Moses the Black, the Patron Saint of  Africa, may come to the aid of those affected by terrorist bombings in Kenya. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Terrorist Bombing Map of Kenya Extract from KENYA: Another bloody Sunday: “Before he knew what was happening, Charles Ngeana, 31, at the scene of Nairobi’s 18 November blast, was struck by a flying sheet of metal. The roof of a packed ‘matatu’ minibus on Route 28 was lifted up and its right side completely blown out. ‘I ran at first because of the dust,’ said Ngeana. ‘The impact was very big.’Ball-bearings, used to maximize the impact of an explosive device, left nearby vehicles speckled with holes. “It definitely came from inside the matatu,” Ngeana said. It took him a few moments to realize he had gashes on his face, throat and right leg. Soon after the blast, which took place in Eastleigh, the commercial centre of Nairobi’s ethnic Somali population, fighting broke out in the street. People appearing to be of Somali origin were attacked for their perceived association with Al-Shabab, a Somali insurgency group that has repeatedly targeted Kenya because of its military involvement in Somalia. In the melee, Ngeana sought the protection of a Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) emergency response team. The bomb exploded around 4pm. ‘We anticipate this on Saturdays and Sundays,’ said Abdi Nasir, the technical director of the National Blood Transfusion Service, speaking outside the Kenyatta National Hospital where 29 casualties of the blast had arrived. They were followed by over 10 casualties of the riots. ‘The previous Sunday, and for around one month, every Sunday there has been a disaster. So we were waiting, going by the current trend.’” See also: Nairobi Blast Kills 7, Kenya grenade blast kills 7, hurts 24, Kenya grenade attack: Somalis attacked in Nairobi.

Saint Moses the Black: Patron Saint of Africa (Feast Date: August 28) Extract from Monastic Library † St. Moses the Black: Meditation Strengthens Spiritual Life: “St. Moses, also known as the Ethiopian, was a large and foreboding man whose fame was grounded in seeking vengeance and spreading violence. Hiding from local authorities, St. Moses took refuge among monks in a colony in the desert of Scetis, near Alexandria. The meditation and prayerful dedication of their lives, as well as their inner peace and contentment, helped St. Moses find the meaning of life and end his journey in seeking out the one eternal and true God of the Universe. St. Moses was to discover happiness in his life, a peaceful meditative, soul settling type of happiness which would forever turn his life toward the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . In its infancy, his now new found spirituality immediately confronted a difficult time while he was adjusting to monastic life. Soon, while in his cell, St. Moses was attacked by a band of robbers. He fought them overpowering them with his physical prowess, and then dragged them to the chapel where the other monks were at solemn prayer. He abruptly reported to the monks that he didn’t think it was Christian to hurt the robbers further and asked what he should do with the captured robbers before them. According to tradition, the extremely overwhelmed robbers repented, confessed, converted, and entered into monasticism under the leadership of their captor, St. Moses the Black.” See picture of St. Moses the Black. See also: August 28 – Saint Moses the Black: Patron Saint of Africa,  Moses the Black. VIDEO: Saint Moses the Black & Strong.

Oceania (Blue Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Adelaide, the Patron Saint of Abuse Victims, may come to the aid of those affected by abuse of military personnel in Australia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster: Abuse of Military Personnel Map of  Australia Extract from: Australian minister apologises to military abuse victims: “Australia’s defence minister has apologised to military personnel past and present who were sexually abused or otherwise mistreated during their service. He also started an inquiry into hundreds of allegations of abuse over six decades. Stephen Smith made the apology in parliament on Monday on behalf of the government as the latest step in a two-year effort to reform the culture of the Australian military and make it more accepting of women. ‘Young men and women have suffered treatment which no member of our defence force or our community generally should experience,’ Smith said. ‘Young men and women have endured sexual, physical or mental abuse from their colleagues which are not acceptable and do not reflect the values of a modern, diverse, tolerant, Australian society,’ he added. He noted claims that officers had abused their positions of trust through their own behaviour or by turning a blind eye to the actions of others. Smith also announced that the retired judge Len Roberts-Smith had been appointed to examine allegations of abuse from more than 1,000 people dating back to the 1950s.” See also: Australia apologises to victims of abuse, Australian military abuse detailed in damning report, Australia Apologizes for Sex Abuse in Military. VIDEO: Australia apology for abuse in the military.

Saint Adelaide: Patron Saint of Abuse Victims (Feast Date: December 16) Extract from St. Adelaide: “Born c.931 at Burgundy, France ; died 999 at the monastery of Seltz, Alsace; canonized in 1097 by Pope Urban II. The daughter of King Rudolph II of Burgundy she was promised in marriage when she was only two years old, to Lothaire, the son and heir of his enemy, Hugh of Provence. Lothaire was killed when still young and Adelaide was to have a tumultuous life that paralleled the struggle for political power of the times, something she had come to symbolize. Having been sought after by various kings and nobles, after Lothaire’s death, she was finally married by Otho the Great of Germany who had invaded Italy. When Otho’s son – Adelaide’s stepson – the Emperor Otho II died, his son Otho III, a child became emperor. In 991, Adelaide was invested as the Regent of the Empire and she used her power as the effective empress to increase evangelization efforts, especially in northern Europe, built many monasteries and churches, and aided the poor.” See PICTURE of Saint Adelaide. December 16 – Saint Adelaide: Patron Saint of Prisoners, Abuse Victims, Large Families, Second Marriages.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Altotting, the Patron Saint of Germany, may come to the aid of those affected by the fire at the Caritas (a Catholic charity) factory in Titisee-Neustadt, Germany.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Caritas Factory Fire Map of Germany Extract from Deadly fire at German workshop for disabled: “Seven people were also injured in the fire, which broke out on Monday in the small town of Titisee-Neustadt in the southwest of the country, according to local news agency DPA. “We can tell you that we have 14 dead. The process of identification is ongoing,” said Karl-Heinz Schmid, a spokesman for police in the nearby city of Freiburg. ‘We also have a large number of injured who have been taken to hospital.’ Most of the injured suffered from smoke inhalation, but all are expected to recover, said officials. The fire broke out around 2:00pm (1300GMT), according to media reports and had still not been extinguished nearly two hours later. Police were unable to determine the cause of the fire which broke out in a workshop housing some 120 people with disabilities in the country’s Black Forest region. DPA quoted a source as saying there had been an explosion in a storage room. . . . Al Jazeera’s Jonah Hull reported that the factory, operated by the Catholic charity Caritas – named for the Latin term for the virtue of charity – was a modern facility. It will be days before officials know the cause of the fire, but there has been no suggestion of arson, he said.” See also: German Inferno Kills 14 at Site Employing Disabled, Fourteen disabled people die in fire at German workshop. Videos: Fire kills 14 at German workshop for disabled.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of Altotting: Patron Saint of  Germany (Feast Dates: August 5) Extract from Extract from Our Lady of Altotting::”The Shrine of Our Lady of Altötting became very popular towards the end of the fifteenth century, actually 1489, as a result of a major miracle.  A little child, about three years old, had gotten too close to the edge of the river, and had fallen in.  Not being able to swim, he drowned.  When his mother found the child, she lost control of her senses for a moment, and then heard an inner voice telling her to rush the dead body of the child to the Holy Chapel of Our Lady.  She ran for all she was worth to the Chapel and laid the body of her child on the Altar of Our Lady.  People who were in the church at the time joined the mother in praying for a miracle, which would bring the child back to life.  All said they felt an awesome presence coming from the image of Our Lady just prior to the miracle taking place. After praying and wailing for what seemed to be a long time, the mother felt life coming back into her child”  See picture of Our Lady of Altotting. and video:  Our Lady of Altotting., August 5 – Saint Mary, Our Lady of Altotting: Patron Saint of Germany.

America (Red Beads)    

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Frances of Rome, the Patron Saint of  Motorists, may come to the aid of those affected by the Thanksgiving Day auto accident in Texas. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Disaster: Thanksgiving Day Auto Accident Map of Texas, U. S, A. Extract from Texas: Two Dead, Many Injured in 140-Car Pileup: “Two people died and more than 80 were hurt Thursday when at least 140 vehicles collided in eastern Texas in a pileup that left trucks twisted on top of one another and the authorities rushing to pull survivors from the miles of wreckage. The collision occurred in extremely foggy conditions about 8 a.m. Thanksgiving Day on Interstate 10 southwest of Beaumont. It was not immediately clear how the pileup began, but Deputy Rod Carroll of the Jefferson County sheriff’s office said the fog was so thick that deputies did not immediately realize they were dealing with multiple accidents. ‘It is catastrophic,’ Deputy Carroll said. ‘I’ve got cars on top of cars.’”  Massive Texas Highway Crash Mars Thanksgiving Celebrations (VIDEO, PICTURES).  VIDEOS: Texas motorway pile-up kills Thanksgiving motorists, Interstate 10 Beaumont, Texas pileup wreck update: Fog suspected in 100-vehicle Thanksgiving crash, Thanksgiving day pile up on Texas highway.  CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.

Saint Frances of Rome: Patron Saint of  Motorists (Feast Date: March 9)  Extract from Saint Frances Of Rome (Optional Memorial) 1384-1440: “Saint Frances of Rome, or Francesca Busso, was born in Rome in 1384 of a noble family and at the age of 13 she was given in marriage, and had three children. She was devoted to serving the poor, using her family fortune to do so, but then her husband backed the wrong side in a battle between contenders for the papacy. They lost everything, yet she continued to serve the needy, and when her husband died after 40 years of marriage, she entered a religious congregation which she had helped found, and eventually she became its superior. She died while reciting the Office of the Blessed Virgin on March 9, 1440. She is obviously a model for housewives, widows, and religious, but how she got to be a patron of motorists is one of the mysteries of the faith.” See PICTURE of St. Frances of Rome. See also: Frances of Rome (Multilingual), Santa Francisca romana – EWTN (SP), St. Frances of Rome, Prayer to Saint Frances of Rome, March 9 – Saint Frances of Rome: Patron Saint of Motorists, Lay People, Widows, and Against the Death of Children.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Florian of Lorch, the Patron Saint against fire, may come to the aid of those affected by the factory fire in Bangledesh.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Fire Map of Bangladesh Extract from At least 117 killed in fire at Bangladeshi clothing factory: “A fire ripped through a clothing factory near the Bangladesh capital of Dhaka, killing at least 117 people and sending workers jumping out of the multistory building. At least 200 people were injured as they rushed to get out of the factory in Ashulia, police said. Firefighters battled to contain the raging blaze that started Saturday night on the first floor of the nine-story building and spread to other floors, leaving hundreds of workers, mostly women, trapped. Officials said some 2,000 people were working in the factory as the fire began, but it was unclear how many had been rescued. The fire department said rescue operations have been very difficult because the factory was packed with fabrics, yarn and cotton, the fire department said. It said the death toll might rise because firefighters could not enter some floors of the building. Scores of people were anxiously waiting outside the burning factory in search of their relatives. Bilkis Akhter, mother of teenage factory worker Munni Akhter, said she had checked with the hospitals and police stations but did not find her daughter, who had been working on the fourth floor.” See also: VIDEOS: Fire at Bangledesh Factory kills more than 100, Fire hits second Bangladesh garment factory, Death toll in Bangladesh garment factory fire rises.

Saint Florian of Lorch: Patron Saint against Fire (Feast Date: May 4) Extract from Extract from Global Warming: “Saint Florian is the Patron Saint of floods, battles, fire, firefighters, chimney sweeps, brewers, barrel makers. Saint Florin was an officer in the Roman army. Emperor Diocletian ordered him to execute a group of Christians but Florian, a secret Christian himself, refused and admitted to being a Christian himself. For his defiance and admission he was scourged, flayed and thrown into a river with a stone tied to his neck. Florian is the Patron Saint of both fire and flood as one legend tells of him stopping a town from burning with a single bucket of water. Images of Saint Florian often show him either holding a small burning house or pouring water onto a miniature burning town.” See also: May 4 – Saint Florian: Patron Saint of Poland, Austria, Firefighters, Harvests; against Floods, Fires, Water Dangers, Battles, Drowning.

Printable World Mission Rosary Intentions: December 3 – 16, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.” Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen    

Kreyol Version  

May Jesus Bless You!          ay y Jesus Bless Yo

General Rosary Intention:  That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Moses the Black, the Patron Saint of  Africa, may come to the aid of those affected by terrorist bombings in Kenya. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Adelaide, the Patron Saint of Abuse Victims, may come to the aid of those affected by abuse of military personnel in Australia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Altotting, the Patron Saint of Germany, may come to the aid of those affected by the fire at the Caritas factory fire in Titisee-Neustadt, Germany.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

America (Red Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Frances of Rome, the Patron Saint of  Motorists, may come to the aid of those affected by the Thanksgiving Day auto accident in Texas. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Florian of Lorch, the Patron Saint against fire, may come to the aid of those affected by the factory fire in Bangledesh.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

For the complete version of the CTF/SOS DRS World Mission Rosary Intentions and more information about our work and mission, visit http://www.ctfmercy.org

World Mission Rosary Intentions: November 19 – December 2, 2012

World Mission Rosary Intentions

November 19 -December 2, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.”

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English; Spanish; Italian

Print the Intentions!

Sign up to receive via e-mail our WMR intentions, newsletter and updates

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Benedict of Nursia, the Patron Saint of Civil Engineers, may come to the aid of those affected by Melcom Department Store collapse in Ghana. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Melcom Department Store Collapse Map of Ghana Extract from Ghana: Accra’s Melcom shop collapse in Ghana: Search for bodies ends: “Rescue efforts at the multi-storey shopping centre that collapsed in Ghana’s capital, Accra, last week have ended, officials have said. The final death toll was 14, not 18 as initially reported by rescuers, while 67 people survived, the officials said. Faulty construction has been blamed for Wednesday’s collapse of the Melcom store, which opened earlier this year. The owner of the building and the local government official in charge of building standards have been detained. President John Dramani Mahama said those responsible for the ‘negligence will pay a price’. . . . Ghanaian army spokesman Col M’bawine Atintande said on Sunday that rescuers had reached “ground zero” and they did not expect to find more bodies. A total of 81 people had been pulled out of the rubble, with 14 of them dead, he said, without explaining why rescuers earlier said 18 people had died. Of the 67 who had been taken to hospital, 13 were still receiving treatment while 54 had been discharged, Col Atintande added. . . . Officials from Ghana’s National Disaster Management Organization have blamed poor foundations for the structure’s collapse. On Thursday, the Ghana Institution of Engineering said the building did not have a permit, which meant the city authorities may not have inspected the building before it opened.” See also: Store building collapses in Ghana, More Kenyan police bodies found. VIDEO: Ghana: Accra’s Melcom department store collapses.

Saint  Benedict of Nursia: Patron Saint of Civil Engineers (Feast Dates:March 11, March 14, July 11) Extract from Extract from Saint Benedict of Nursia: “Born to the Roman nobility. Twin brother of Saint Scholastica. Studied in Rome, Italy, but was dismayed by the lack of discipline and the lackadaisical attitude of his fellow students. Fled to the mountains near Subiaco, living as a hermit in a cave for three years; reported to have been fed by a raven. His virtues caused an abbey to request him to lead them. . . . His discipline was such that an attempt was made on his life; some monks tried by poison him, but he blessed the cup and rendered it harmless. He returned to his cave, but continued to attract followers, and eventually established twelve monasteries. Had the ability to read consciences, the gift of prophesy, and could forestall attacks of the devil.”  See pictures of Saint Benedict of Nursia, See also: March 11, March 14, July 11 – Saint Benedict of Nursia: Patron Saint of Civil Engineers, The Rule of St. Benedict, Prayers to St. Benedict.

Oceania (Blue Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Brigid of Ireland, the Patron Saint of Travelers, may come to the aid of those affected by the train crash in  Victoria, Australia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster:  Passenger Train Crash Map of Australia Extract from One dead as train crashes, derails in Australia: “SYDNEY (AFP) – One man died and about a dozen others were injured Saturday when a passenger train smashed into a truck and derailed in the southern Australian state of Victoria, authorities said. The accident happened when the rear trailer of a truck attempting to drive across a level crossing in the Melbourne suburb of Dandenong South was struck by the passenger train, police investigators have been told. ‘There was this massive sonic, the factory was shaking. You could just hear the train derailing and going through the gravel,’ said Angelo Galluccio, a local business owner. . . . . Television images of the crash showed crumpled train carriages lying smashed into each other across the tracks after one carriage tipped over and three others derailed on impact. . . . Emergency workers freed the train driver after more than an hour and he is reportedly in a critical condition with injuries to the lower half of his body. The driver of the truck did not require hospital treatment. The bulk of the dozen or so injured passengers received mostly minor injuries. Police said the man who died, thought to be aged in his 30s, was found in the rubble but could not be saved. ‘Emergency workers located a man in cardiac arrest near the train cabin. Despite attempts by paramedics to treat the man, he died at the scene,’ they said in a statement. . . . ‘Obviously what we have seen here today is a terrible tragedy,’ said Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu. ‘It’s extraordinary that no more lives have been lost.’” See also:  Fatal passenger train crash in Australia, One dead in Australian train crash. VIDEO: One dead, 9 injured in Metro train crash, Train crash hero.

Saint Brigid of Ireland: Patron Saint of Travelers (Feast Dates: February 1, June 10) Extract from St. Brigid of Ireland: “Brigid is often called the Mary of the Gael. At about 453 AD, a child was born out of wedlock between Dubhtach and one of his Christian slaves named Brocessa. The slave girl was sent to a cabin at the foot of the Cooley Mountains near Dundalk, Co Louth, to have the child. The baby was a healthy girl, which was no great joy to Dubhtach who wanted a son. The mother was sold to a Chieftain in Connaught, and the child was given to a Druid to be raised and educated. In keeping with the life planned for her, she became a vestal virgin in service to the Goddess Brid, and eventually high priestess at the Kil Dara (the temple of the oak), a pagan sanctuary built from the wood of a tree sacred to the Druids. There she and her companions kept a perpetual ritual fire, in honor of Brid. The exact circumstance of her conversion to Christianity are unknown, though it is certain that her Christian mother was a guiding influence. Brigid changed the pagan sanctuary of Kil Dara into a Christian shrine, which gave its name to the present County Kildare. She extinguished the ritual fire of the Druids, and lit a flame dedicated to Christ.” See picture of St. Brigid of Ireland. See also: February 1, June 10: Saint Brigid of Ireland: Patron Saint of Travelers,  Some Catholic Prayers to Saint Brigid.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Loreto,  the Patron Saint of Italy, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in central and northern Italy.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Flooding Map of Italy Extract from Italy floods: Six killed in port city Genoa: “At least six people were killed when the Italian port city of Genoa was hit by flash floods during torrential rainfall. Five of the victims, including two children, died when the lobby of an apartment block in which they had sought shelter flooded. A woman was apparently crushed by cars being swept away by the water. The Genoa city website advised people not to leave their homes and to climb to the upper floors. Several people are missing in the city. “This was a completely unexpected tragedy,” said Genoa mayor Marta Vicenzi.Television footage showed cars floating and people wading knee-deep through flooded streets in Genoa, the largest city on Italy’s north western coast. Hundreds of shops were flooded and emergency officials urged residents to move to high ground as two rivers burst their banks. Firefighters used rubber dinghies and divers to evacuate people, officials said.” See also: Italy floods prompt fears for future of farming. VIDEOS: Italy flooded after heavy rains,  Several dead after floods hit Tuscany and Liguria.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of Loreto: Patron Saint of Italy (Feast Dates: May 9, November 10, December 10) Extract from Our Lady of Loreto The Holy House of Nazareth: “December 10th, 1294, in the area of Loreto, Italy (across the Adriatic Sea and southwest of Tersatto,) shepherds reported seeing a house in the sky, flying across the sea, supported by Angels. They reported, one of the Angels (Michael) wore a red cape, and seemed to be leading the others. They saw Our Lady and the Baby Jesus seated on top of the house. The Angels continued inland, about four miles, and landed with their precious house and its Royal Passengers into a wooded area called Banderuola. The news spread, quickly drawing many people to pilgrimage to the House in Banderuola. But they were not all working on the same agenda. Robbers came to waylay, rob, and beat the pilgrims. The faithful stopped coming, and the house quickly fell into neglect. The Angels, who had been put in charge of protecting the House, lifted it again and set it down on a small hill in the middle of a farm. The only problem was, this land was owned by two brothers, named Antici, who began fighting immediately over ownership of the house. So the Angels moved the house, a third time, to another hill. This time they placed it down on the middle of a road, the site it occupies now, and has for the last 700 years. Tradition tells us that as soon as the house moved off the brothers’ property, they became the best of friends. The Angels had moved the Holy House three times in one year.” See also: May 9, November 10, December 10 – Our Lady of Loreto: Patron Saint of Aviation,  NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF LORETO.

America (Red Beads)    

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Francis Borgia, the Patron Saint against Earthquakes, may come to the aid of those affected by the recent earthquake in  Guatemala.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in

America.Disaster: Earthquake Map of Guatemala Extract from Guatemala earthquake kills dozens: “A 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of Guatemala on Wednesday morning, killing at least 45 people, according to the country’s president. Otto Pérez Molina told a news conference not all the deaths had been confirmed, but witnesses reported seeing people buried in some of the 30 houses that collapsed in the town of San Marcos, near the north-western border with Mexico, where most of the damage was reported. The quake, which was about 20 miles deep and centred 15 miles off the coastal town of Champerico and about 100 miles south-west of Guatemala City, shook buildings as far away as Mexico City and El Salvador. Survivors on radio and social media talked of widespread landslides and scores of people trapped. But accounts of injuries and deaths were difficult to independently confirm as communication and roads to San Marcos had been severed. It was the largest earthquake to strike Guatemala since 1976, when 23,000 people were killed during a similar disaster in the small central American country.” See also: Another earthquake hits Guatemala. VIDEO: 48 dead after earthquake rocks Guatemala. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.

Saint Francis Borgia: Patron Saint Against Earthquakes (Feast Date: October 10) Extract from St. Francis Borgia: “Francis was a young nobleman at the court of the King of Spain. He became a Duke when he was only thirty-three and lived a happy, peaceful life with his wife Eleanor and their eight children. But unlike so many other powerful nobles, Francis was a perfect Christian gentleman, a true man of God and his great joy was to receive Holy Communion often. This happy life ended when his beloved wife died. Francis did something that astonished all the nobles of Spain; he gave up his Dukedom to his son Charles and became a Jesuit priest. So many people came to his first Mass that they had to set up an altar outdoors, but his Superior tested him by treating him in exactly the opposite way he had been used to all his forty-one years of life. He who had once been a Duke had to help the cook, carrying wood for the fire and sweeping the kitchen. When he served food to the priests and brothers, he had to kneel down in front of them all and beg them to forgive him for being so clumsy! Still he never once complained or grumbled. The only time he became angry was when anyone treated him with respect as if he was still a Duke.”  See PICTURE of St. Francis Borgia. See also: October 10: Saint Francis Borgia: Patron Saint Against Earthquakes,  PRAYER FOR THE FEAST OF SAINT FRANCIS BORGIA.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Agatha, the Patron Saint against earthquakes, may come to the aid of those affected by the earthquakes in northern Myanmar.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Earthquakes Map of Myanmar (Burma) Extract from Second quake hits northern Myanmar: “A 5.6 magnitude earthquake has struck Myanmar, hours after a stronger tremor killed at least 12 people and injured dozens more, the US Geological Survey says. The USGS said the quake, early on early Monday morning, occurred at a depth of 9km, 135km north of the central city of Mandalay. Hours earlier a strong earthquake struck the same region of northern Myanmar. Scattered damage and injuries also were reported on Sunday in areas close to the quake’s epicentre. According to news reports, the most significant damage appeared to be the collapsing of bridge under construction across the Irrawaddy River in the town of Shwebo, the location of the quake’s epicentre. The website of Weekly Eleven magazine said five people were killed when the bridge, which was 80 per cent built, collapsed. According to a witness, the huge concrete gate of a monastery collapsed and several sculptures from another pagoda were damaged in the town. A series of strong aftershocks on Sunday added to the nervousness. The shallow 6.8-magnitude quake hit around 116km north of Mandalay at a depth of just 10km, the USGS said. It initially put the magnitude of the quake at 7.0. The were no immediate reports of casualties but building standards are generally poor in the country formerly known as Burma, one of Asia’s most impoverished nations.” See also: Burma earthquake leaves at least 12 feared dead. VIDEOS: Myanmar quake victims seek shelter in tents. CTF/SOS DRS Response to Disasters in Asia: 2011-10 Floods in Thailand, Pakistan,

St. Agatha of Sicily: Patron Saint against Earthquakes (Feast Date: February 5) Extract from Saint Agatha of Sicily : “We have little reliable information about this martyr, who has been honoured since ancient times, and whose name is included in the canon of the Mass. Young, beautiful and rich, Agatha lived a life consecrated to God. When Decius announced the edicts against Christians, the magistrate Quinctianus tried to profit by Agatha’s sanctity; he planned to blackmail her into sex in exchange for not charging her. . . .” .See pictures of Saint Agatha of Sicily. See also: February 5 – Saint Agatha of Sicily: Patron Saint against Fires, Volcanic Eruptions, Earthquakes, Disasters and Natural Disasters, PRAYERS to Saint Agatha.

Printable World Mission Rosary Intentions: November 19 – December 2, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.” Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen    

Kreyol Version  

May Jesus Bless You!          ay y Jesus Bless Yo

General Rosary Intention:  That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Benedict of Nursia, the Patron Saint of Civil Engineers, may come to the aid of those affected by Melcom Department Store collapse in Ghana. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of  St. Brigid of Ireland, the Patron Saint of Travelers, may come to the aid of those affected by the train crash in  Victoria, Australia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Loreto,  the Patron Saint of Italy, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in central and northern Italy.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

America (Red Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Francis Borgia, the Patron Saint of against Earthquakes, may come to the aid of those affected by the recent earthquake in  Guatemala.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Agatha, the Patron Saint against earthquakes, may come to the aid of those affected by the earthquakes in northern Myanmar.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

For the complete version of the CTF/SOS DRS World Mission Rosary Intentions and more information about our work and mission, visit http://www.ctfmercy.org

World Mission Rosary Intentions: November 5 – November 18, 2012

World Mission Rosary Intentions

November 5 – November 18, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents,

all people in prayer.”

    Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English;  Spanish;  Italian

Print the Intentions!

Sign up to receive via e-mail our WMR intentions, newsletter and updates

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.
Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Charles Borromeo, the Patron Saint against Intestinal Disorders, may come to the aid of those affected by Cholera in Sierra Leone. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Cholera Map of Sierra Leone Extract from: Cholera in Sierra Leone – update: “The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHS) continues to work closely with partners at the national and international levels to step up response to the ongoing cholera outbreak. Twelve of the 13 districts in Sierra Leone have been affected since the beginning of the year. . . . In July 2012, the President of Sierra Leone declared the cholera epidemic a ‘humanitarian crisis’. A high level Presidential Cholera Task Force was subsequently established to oversee coordination, mobilization of resources and guide the response.  A multi-sectoral approach to the response has been adopted involving the MOHS and other line ministries such as Finance, Information and Communication, and local governments together with partners and stakeholders.” See also: In pictures: Sierra Leone’s cholera outbreak, SLIDESHOW: Cholera ebbing in Sierra Leone. VIDEOS: Cholera: West Africa’s recurring nightmare.

Saint Charles Borromeo: Patron Saint of Intestinal Disorders (Feast Date: November 5) Extract from St. Charles Borromeo: “Archbishop of Milan, Cardinal-Priest of the Title of St. Prassede, Papal Secretary of State under Pius IV, and one of the chief factors in the Catholic Counter-Reformation — was born in the Castle of Arona, a town on the southern shore of the Lago Maggiore in northern Italy, 2 October, 1538; died at Milan, 3 November, 1584. His emblem is the word humilitas crowned, which is a portion of the Borromeo shield. He is usually represented in art in his cardinal’s robes, barefoot, carrying the cross as archbishop; a rope round his neck, one hand raised in blessing, thus recalling his work during the plague.” See PICTURE of Saint Charles Borromeo. See also: November 4 – Saint Charles Borromeo: Patron Saint for Intestinal Disorders, NOVENA to Saint Charles Borromeo.

Oceania (Blue Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Elizabeth of Portugal, the Patron Saint of Peace, may come to the aid of those affected by Islamic militant terrorist plots in Indonesia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster: Islamic Militant Terrorism Map of Indonesia Extract from Indonesia terror raids net 11 suspects, state media reports: “Indonesian police arrested 11 people Saturday during a series of raids on a terrorist group that was plotting attacks on targets that included a U.S. Consulate in East Java, state media reported. The suspects are believed to belong to a newly formed terrorist cell under the control of Hasmi, which stands for Harakat Sunni for Indonesia Community, National Police headquarters spokesman Inspector Gen. Suhardi Alius is quoted as saying, according to the official Antara news agency. . . . Among its targets was the U.S. Consulate General in Surabaya, East Java . . . . Police operations were carried out in Madiun, East Java, Solo in Central Java, Bogor in West Java and Palmerah, as well as Kebong Kacang in Jakarta, Antara reported. In the locations, police discovered bomb-making materials and manuals, ammunition and detonators, the police spokesman said. Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation which is majority Sunni Muslim, has the largest Muslim population in the world.” See also: Plot on U.S. Targets Cited in 11 Arrests by Indonesia, Indonesia police arrest 11 over suspected terror plots., Indonesia Arrests 11 It Says Were Plotting Attack on U.S. Embassy. VIDEOS: Police on Java arrest Islamist suspects. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in Oceania.

Saint Elizabeth of Portugal, Patron Saint Invoked in Times of War (Feast Date: July 4)(Canonized May 25, 1625) Extract from: Elizabeth of Portugal: “Elizabeth was a Spanish princess who was given in marriage to King Denis of Portugal at the age of twelve. She was very beautiful and very lovable. She was also very devout, and went to Mass every day. Elizabeth was a holy wife, but although her husband was fond of her at first, he soon began to cause her great suffering. In his last sickness, she never left his side, except for Mass, until he died a holy death. St. Elizabeth lived for eleven more years, doing even greater charity and penance. She was a wonderful model of kindness toward the poor and a successful peacemaker between members of her own family and between nations. Because St. Elizabeth was faithful to daily Mass, she found strength to carry her many great crosses. See PICTURES of Saint Elizabeth of Portugal. See also:  July 4 – Saint Elizabeth of Portugal: Patron Saint of Peace – Invoked in Times of War, July 4 – Prayer to St. Elizabeth of Portugal.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Ransom, the Patron Saint of Spain, may come to the aid of those affected by unemployment in Spain and elsewhere in Europe.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Unemployment Map of Spain Extract from Unemployment in Spain Exceeds 25%, Taking Economic Misery to New Levels: “Though hardly a surprise, Friday’s report that Spain’s unemployment rate had surpassed 25 percent was bad news for a government that recently trumpeted a streamlining of its labor market rules. The ranks of the unemployed swelled to 5.78 million people at the end of the third quarter, compared with 5.69 million a quarter earlier and 2.6 million four years ago, when Spain’s property bubble burst, the report said. The jobs data signaled a deepening recession and raised the likelihood that Spain would again miss budget targets agreed to with other euro zone countries. There was, however, one perversely positive element to the report: the labor picture is so bleak that it could help Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy make the case that Germany and other lenders cannot risk imposing further austerity measures on Spain’s economy in return for providing more European rescue funding.”  See also: Eurozone unemployment hits record high and reveals two-speed Europe, Spain jobless rate hits new high in third quarter, Euro unemployment hits new high. VIDEOS: Spain unemployment hits record high, Record unemployment in Spain, Unemployment in Greece set to hit new highs, Unemployment woes continue in Italy.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of Mercy (Our Lady of Ransom), Patron Saint of Spain (Feast Date:  September 24) Extract from: September 24 – Feast of Our Lady of Ransom: “The world goes on its laborious way, proud of its riches, of its power, of its arms, of its genius; the Church goes onward along the course of ages with an even step, trusting in God only, to Whom, day and night, she lifts her eyes and her suppliant hands. Even though in her prudence she neglects not the human aid which Providence and the times afford her, not in these does she put her trust, which rests in prayer, in supplication, in the invocation of God. Thus it is that she renews her vital breath; the diligence of her prayer has caused her, in her aloofness from worldly things and in her continual union with the Divine will, to live the tranquil and peaceful life of Our very Lord Jesus Christ; being herself the image of Christ, whose happy and perpetual joy was hardly marred by the horror of the torments He endured for us. . . .”  See PICTURE of Our Lady of Mercy. See also:  September 24 – Saint Mary, Our Lady of Mercy (Our Lady of Ransom)(Patron Saint of Spain), PRAYER for the Feast of Our Lady of Ransom, PRAYER to Our Lady of Mercy – St. Augustine of Hippo.

America (Red Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary Ann Paredes, the Patron Saint of the Americas, may come to the aid of those affected by Hurricane Sandy in the Americas. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Disaster: Hurricane Sandy Map of America Extract from New Jersey Is Reeling From Punch by a Storm: “New Jersey was reeling on Wednesday from the impact of Hurricane Sandy, which has caused catastrophic flooding here in Hoboken and in other New York City suburbs, destroyed entire neighborhoods across the state and wiped out iconic boardwalks in shore towns that had enchanted generations of vacationgoers. Though the storm raged up the East Coast, it has become increasingly apparent that New Jersey took the brunt of it. Officials estimated that the state suffered many billions of dollars in property damage. About a quarter of the state’s population — more than two million people — remained without power on Wednesday, and more than 6,000 were still in shelters, state emergency officials said. At least eight people died, and officials expressed deep concerns that the toll would rise as more searches of homes were carried out. On Wednesday, President Obama visited the state and viewed the destruction with Gov. Chris Christie. ‘The entire country has been watching what’s been happening,’ Mr. Obama said at a stop in Atlantic County at the Brigantine Beach Community Center in Brigantine. ‘Everybody knows how hard Jersey has been hit.’” See also: Haiti food fears grow after Sandy, Storm Sandy: Eastern US gets back on its feet, As Hurricane Sandy nears, 450,000 on East Coast told to evacuate. VIDEOS: Superstorm Sandy cuts power to 8.1 million homes, What Sandy left in its wake – Day 2, New Jersey is Reeling from Sandy’s landfall, Hurricane Sandy wreaks havoc in Haiti (1:08), Haiti struggles in Hurricane Sandy aftermath, A look at some of Sandy’s victims. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.
Saint Mary Ann de Paredes: Patron Saint of the Americas (Feast Date: May 26) Extract from Mary Ann de Paredes:  “Daughter of Don Girolamo Flores Zenel de Paredes, a nobleman of Toledo, and Doña Mariana Cranobles de Xaramilo; Her birth was accompanied by unusual celestial phenomena. Orphaned very young, she was raised by her older sister and her husband. Mary Ann was a pious child with a devotion to Mary. She was miraculously saved from death several times. Attracted to religious life at an early age, at ten she made vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. She initially wanted to be a Dominican nun, but instead became a hermit in home of her sister. Her life changed at that point, and except to attend church, she never left the house again. Given to severe austerities, she slept little, and ate an ounce of dry bread every eight or ten days, surviving solely on the Eucharist which she received during daily Communion. Given to ecstacies; had gifts of prophecy, remote viewing, reading of hearts, healing by making the Sign of the Cross or sprinkling with holy water, and at least once restored a dead person to life. During a series of earthquakes in 1645, and inevitable epidemics that followed them, in Quito, Ecuador she publicly offered herself as a victim for the city and died shortly after. Immediately after her death there blossomed a pure white lily from her blood. The Republic of Ecuador has declared her a national heroine.” See PICTURE of Saint Mary Ann de Paredes.  See also: May 26 – Saint Mary Ann de Paredes: Patron Saint of the Americas.  

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Francis Xavier, the Patron Saint of China and of India, may come to the aid of those affected by violent storms in Asia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Storms-Typhoon Son-Tinh and Cyclone Nilan Map of Asia Extract from Typhoon Son-Tinh kills dozens in Philippines: “The death toll from Typhoon Son-Tinh in the Philippines has risen sharply to 24, as casualty reports come in from isolated central islands and the far-flung south, the government said. Drowning and landslides were given as the cause of 11 deaths on small islands in the country’s mid-section, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said in its latest tally on Saturday. The other 13 victims were carried away by flash floods, buried by landslides, hit by falling trees and flying debris, electrocuted, or died from exposure to the cold, it added. The official death toll from the typhoon, which was classed as a weaker “tropical storm” when it passed over the Philippines, had previously stood at six on Friday. Eight fishermen from the central and southern Philippines remained missing at sea, the government agency said. Rescuers are also still searching for a man believed buried in a landslide on the main southern island of Mindanao, it said, adding that more than 15,000 people displaced by the storm were still sheltering at government buildings and receiving disaster aid. Food and other forms of aid were given to nearly 40,000 others who chose to remain at home or temporarily moved in with relatives or friends, it added. The Philippines endures about 20 major storms or typhoons each year that occur mainly during the rainy season between June and October.” See also: Storm Son-Tinh batters Asia; more than 30 reported dead, Cyclone Nilam hits Tamil Nadu, thousands evacuated, Tropical Storm Nilam. VIDEOS: Cyclone Nilam buffets India coast,Cyclone Nilam: Oil tanker runs aground; 6 sailors still missing – NewsX, Cyclone Nilam: Body of another sailor found, 4 still missing, Typhoon Son Tinh Hits S China,Typhoon Son-tinh slams Vietnam.  CTF/SOS DRS Response to Disasters in Asia: 2011-10 Floods in Thailand, Pakistan.

Saint Francis Xavier, Patron Saint of India and of China (Feast Date: December 3) Extract from Saint Francis Xavier: “Tremendously successful missionary for ten years in India, the East Indies, and Japan, baptizing more than 40,000 converts. His epic finds him dining with head hunters, washing the sores of lepers in Venice, teaching catechism to Indian children, baptizing 10,000 in a single month. He tolerated the most appalling conditions on long sea voyages, enduring extremes of heat and cold. Wherever he went he would seek out and help the poor and forgotten. He traveled thousands of miles, most on his bare feet, and he saw the greater part of the Far East. Had the gift of tongues. Miracle worker. Raised people from the dead. Calmed storms. Prophet. Healer.” See picture of Saint Francis Xavier. See also: December 3 – Saint Francis Xavier: Patron Saint of Missionaries, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Indianapolis, Apostleship of Prayer, and Against Epidemics.      

World Mission Rosary – Patron Saints Calendar – November 2012 – List

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All 2011 CTF SOS DRS (SOS Doctors) World Mission Rosary Patron Saints Calendars

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November is the Month of St. Mary, Our Lady of the Holy Souls: Patron Saint of Arkansas

November 1      ALL SAINTS DAY

November 1      St. Amabilis: Patron Saint Against Poisoning

November 2      COMMEMORATION OF ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED (ALL SOULS DAY)

November 3      St. Martin de Porres

November 3      St. Hubert of Liege: Patron Saint of Metal Workers

November 4      St. CHARLES BORROMEO: Patron Saint for Intestinal Disorders

November 6      St. Leonard of Noblac: Patron Saint of Miners and Prisoners

November 9      DEDICATION OF THE LATERAN BASILICA IN ROME

November 9      Bl. Elizabeth of the Trinity, Patron Saint of the Sick

November 10    ST. LEO THE GREAT

November 10    St. Andrew Avellino: Patron Saint against Sudden Death

November 11    St. MARTIN OF TOURS, Patron Saint of France

November 12    St. JOSAPHAT KUNTSEVYCH, Patron Saint of the Ukraine

November 13    St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Patron Saint of  Immigrants and against Malaria

November 15    St. Albert the Great

November 15    St. Isadore the Farmer, Patron Saint of Farm Workers

November 16    Our Lady, Health of the Sick

November 16    St. Margaret of Scotland, Queen: Advocate for Social Justice

November 16    St. Gertrude

November 16    St. John Nepumucen, Patron Saint against Floods

November 16    St. Honorius of Amiens, Patron Saint of Oil Refiners

November 17    St. ELIZABETH OF HUNGARY,  Patron Saint of Charities, Homelessness, against the Death of Children

November 17    St. Gregory Thaumaturgus, Wonder Worker: Patron Saint against Floods

November 18    The Dedication of the Basilicas of St. Peter and St. Paul in Rome

November 18    St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, Patron Saint of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, Missouri

November 19    Our Lady of Divine Providence, Patron Saint of Puerto Rico

November 19    St. Ebbe of Minister-in Thannet, Accused of Witchcraft

November 21    THE PRESENTATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

November 21    Our Lady Queen of Peace, Patron Saint of Peace, War and Civilian Victims, El Salvador

November 22    ST. CECILIA, Patron Saint of Music

November 23    Pope St. Clement I, Patron Saint of Mariners

November 23    St. Columban, Patron Saint against Floods

November 23    Blessed Miguel Augustin Pro

November 24    ST. ANDREW DUNG-LAC AND HIS COMPANIONS

November 20    OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING

November 25    Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Patron Saint of France

November 25    St. Catherine of Alexandria, Patron Saint against the Death of Children

November 25    St. Josaphat Kuntsevych, Patron Saint of the Yukraine

November 30    ST. ANDREW, Patron Saint of Russia

2011 CTF SOS DRS (SOS Doctors) World Mission Rosary Patron Saints Calendars

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Patron Saints Home

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary:

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Printable World Mission Rosary Intentions: November 5 – November 18, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disastr Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.” Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen  

                                                         

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention –That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Charles Borromeo, the Patron Saint against Intestinal Disorders, may come to the aid of those affected by Cholera in Sierra Leone. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Elizabeth of Portugal, the Patron Saint of Peace, may come to the aid of those affected by Islamic militant terrorist plots in Indonesia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Ransom, the Patron Saint of Spain, may come to the aid of those affected by unemployment in Spain and elsewhere in Europe.

America (Red Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary Ann Paredes, the Patron Saint of the Americas, may come to the aid of those affected by Hurricane Sandy in the Americas. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Francis Xavier, the Patron Saint of China and of India, may come to the aid of those affected by violent storms in Asia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

                                For the complete version of the CTF/SOS DRS World Mission Rosary Intentions and more information about our work and mission, visit http://www.ctfmercy.org

World Mission Rosary Intentions: October 22 – November 4, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents,

all people in prayer.”

    Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English;  Spanish;  Italian

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Kreyol Version

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Florian of Lorch, the Patron Saint against Floods, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in Nigeria. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Map of Nigeria Extract from: Nigeria floods kill dozens, wash hippos and crocodiles into homes: “Ravaging floods killed dozens in Nigeria and displaced tens of thousands of residents as crocodiles, hippos and other water animals washed into homes. The floods have left 148 people dead and affected 21 of the nation’s three dozens states, according to the local Red Cross. “Torrential downpours in recent weeks have caused widespread destruction and forced many families into makeshift camps,” the aid agency said on its website. ‘An estimated 134,000 people have now been affected by the floods and concern is growing about the spread of waterborne diseases.’The floods have affected a series of states, including Bayelsa and Benue. In Bayelsa state, an official said the area’s terrain has intensified the effects of the downpour. ‘It is like Florida … swampy with a lot of sea water mixed with fresh water because we are close to rivers and the Atlantic (ocean),’ said Tam Alazigha, the chief economic adviser for the state. ‘A lot of people have been displaced. Snakes, crocodiles and hippos have been displaced and are ending up in people’s homes. Everyone has been displaced.’ Alazigha said more rain is forecast and authorities are evacuating residents to shelters that have been set up in schools located on higher ground. ‘The bad part is … there is no relief yet,’ he said.” See also: Nigeria president calls floods a “national disaster”. VIDEOS: BBC News – Nigeria floods displace 100,000, Nigeria floods displace thousands.

Saint Florian: Patron Saint against Floods (Feast Date: May 4) Extract from Extract from:  Saint Florian von Lorch:  “Florian von Lorch was born around 250 AD and was martyred for his faith around 304 AD.  . . . He converted to Christianity when it was still a minority religion. It is said that as a youth, Florian was able to put out a fire in a house through the power of his prayers alone. It is also said that he saved an entire city from flames with only a single bucket of water. .. At the beginning of the 4th century, during the persecution named for the Emperor Diocletian, Florian made a public profession of his Christian Faith and turned himself in to the local governor. Governor Aquilinus, wishing to make an example of the popular Fire Chief, ordered his execution by burning at the stake. Florian was twice scourged, half-flayed alive, and then prepared to be set on fire. After several attempts to light the kindling failed, the infuriated Aquilinus ordered a millstone tied to Florian’s neck and Florian thrown into the River Enns. A pious woman found the body of the Martyr Florian and returned it to dry land. .Eventually, his body was removed to an Augustinian Abbey near Linz, which became known as The Abbey Saint Florian. . . . Many miracles of healing were attributed to his intercession and he was invoked as a powerful protector when in danger from fire or water. . .”   See PICTURE of St. Florian. See also: May 4 – Saint Florian: Patron Saint against Floods, Fires, Water Dangers, St. Florian Prayer.

Oceania (Blue Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary Magdalene of Pazzi , the Patron Saint of the Sick, may come to the aid of those affected by neglected tropical diseases in Indonesia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster: Neglected Tropical Diseases Map of  Indonesia Extract from Indonesia’s poor threatened by neglected diseases: “Indonesia harbors nearly a third of the world’s neglected tropical diseases, despite there being cures for many of them, largely due to poor sanitation and unhealthy living, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said. A report titled Working to Overcome the Global Impact of Neglected Tropical Diseases, dated Oct. 14, showed that six of the 17 neglected tropical diseases in the world existed in Indonesia. They are rabies, dengue, endemic treponematoses, leprosy, elephantiasis and intestinal worms. In 2009 leprosy afflicted about 21,000 people in Indonesia. WHO director general Margaret Chan said in a speech to present the report that the diseases shared a striking commonality although they differed in medical causes and symptoms. ‘The neglected tropical diseases form a group because of one shared feature: All occur almost exclusively among very poor people living in tropical parts of the world,’ she said. Chan added that these diseases thrived ‘in impoverished settings, where housing is often substandard, safe water and sanitation are scarce, environments are filthy, and insects and other vectors are abundant’. The diseases, she added, caused physical and mental impairments including blindness, disfigurement and damage to the internal organs.” See also: Neglected tropical diseases still endemic in Indonesia, Dormant tropical diseases still a threat. VIDEOS: Study Says Neglected Tropical Infections Linked to Heart Disease, J&J’s Stoffels on Drug Makers, Tropical Diseases. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in Oceania.

Saint Mary Magdalene of Pazzi: Patron Saint of the Sick and against Sexual Temptation (Feast Date: May 25) Extract from St. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi: “Mystical ecstasy is the elevation of the spirit to God in such a way that the person is aware of this union with God and both internal and external senses are detached from the sensible world. Mary Magdalene de Pazzi was so generously given this special gift of God that she is called the ‘ecstatic saint.’ She was born into a noble family in Florence in 1566. The normal course would have been for Catherine de Pazzi to have married wealth and enjoyed comfort, but she chose to follow her own path. . . . When 16, she entered the Carmelite convent in Florence because she could receive Communion daily there. . Catherine had taken the name Mary Magdalene and had been a novice for a year when she became critically ill. Death seemed near so her superiors let her make her profession of vows from a cot in the chapel in a private ceremony. Immediately after, she fell into an ecstasy that lasted about two hours. This was repeated after Communion on the following 40 mornings. These ecstasies were rich experiences of union with God and contained marvelous insights into divine truths. As a safeguard against deception and to preserve the revelations, her confessor asked Mary Magdalene to dictate her experiences to sister secretaries. . . . She read the thoughts of others and predicted future events. During her lifetime, she appeared to several persons in distant places and cured a number of sick people. It would be easy to dwell on the ecstasies and pretend that Mary Magdalene only had spiritual highs. This is far from true. . . .She had violent temptations and endured great physical suffering.”  See PICTURE of Saint Mary Magdalene of Pazzi. See also: May 25 – Saint Mary Magdalene of Pazzi: Patron Saint of the Sick and against Sexual Temptation, Pardon PRAYER of St. Mary Magdalene dei Pazzi.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Columbanus, the Patron Saint against Floods, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in Dagestan, Russia.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Map of Russia Extract from Floods kill seven in Russia’s Dagestan region: “Heavy rains caused flooding that killed seven people in the southern Russian province of Dagestan on Wednesday, the Emergency Situations Ministry said. About 320 homes in the Caspian Sea coastal city of Derbent close to the Caucasus Mountains were flooded and seven bodies were found, the ministry said. A flash flood killed 171 people in August in the Caucasus in the Krasnodar region town of Krymsk, where residents said they had no warning of the danger. President Vladimir Putin visited the area and several local officials were sacked and detained. In Derbent, warnings were issued from loudspeakers at mosques and mounted on cars dispatched around the city in the mostly Muslim province, Ekho Moskvy radio reported.” See also: 7 dead in Dagestan flooding, Flooding in Dagestan, Russia kills 7. VIDEO: Seven people killed in Dagestan flooding.

Saint Columbanus: Patron Saint against Floods (Feast Date: November 23) Extract from Saint Columbanus: “Well-born, handsome and educated, Columbanus was torn between a desire for God and easy access to the pleasures of the world. Acting on advice of a holy anchoress, he decided to withdraw from the world. His family opposed the choice, his mother going so far as to block the door. He was a monk at Lough Erne. He studied Scripture extensively, and wrote a commentary on the Psalms. He was a monk at Bangor under abbot Saint Comgall. In middle age, Columbanus felt a call to missionary life. With twelve companions (Saint Attala, Columbanus the Younger, Cummain, Domgal, Eogain, Eunan, Saint Gall, Gurgano, Libran, Lua, Sigisbert and Waldoleno), he travelled to Scotland, England, and then to France in 585. The area, though nominally Christian, had fallen far from the faith, but was ready for missionaries, and they had some success. They were warmly greeted at the court of Gontram, and king of Burgundy invited the band to stay. They chose the half-ruined Roman fortress of Annegray in the Vosges Mountains for their new home with Columbanus as their abbot.. . . “ See picture of St. Columbanus. See also: November 23 – St. Columban: Patron Saint against Floods, A prayer of St. Columbanus.  

America (Red Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Charity of el Cobre, the Patron Saint of Cuba, may come to the aid of those affected by the sinking of a Cuban refugee raft near Cancun, Mexico.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Disaster: Sinking of Refugee Raft Map of Mexico Extract from Cuban refugees die near Mexico:  “An improvised raft carrying 23 Cuban refugees has sunk as it approached a Mexican island near the popular resort of Cancun. Two people have died and 11 are missing and presumed dead. Survivors told Mexican media that their home-made raft sank as it hit the reefs surrounding Isla Mujeres on Friday morning. The refugees said they headed for Mexico in the hope of joining relatives in the United States. The accident happened some 150 metres (140 yards) off Isla Mujeres, in an area known for its strong currents, the Mexican Navy said. Cancun is one of Mexico’s best known holiday destinations Ten Cuban refugees managed to swim to safety. But they said the others were taken away by the currents or fatally injured as they were pushed towards the rocks by the big waves. “One of them head a head injury and died on the beach. The other one, a woman, was taken to hospital but also died of her injuries,” said a Navy official, Ismael Gonzalez Gil. . . .  The survivors said group’s intention was to reach the Mexican coast, which lies some 220km (140 miles) west of Cuba, and eventually cross the border into the United States.” See also: Raft with Cuban refugees sinks near Cancun. VIDEO: Cuban refugees raft sinks near Cancun, Mexico, killing two.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre: Patron Saint of Cuba (Feast Date September 8) Extract from Extract from Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre: “A statue of Our Lady with a miraculous origin. It stands about 16 inches high. The head is made of baked clay covered with a polished coat of fine white powder, possibly rice paste, and until recently was covered with several layers of paint. She stands on a moon that has silver clouds at either end and three golden-winged cherubs beneath it. She cradles the Christ Child in her left arm, and holds a gold crucifix in her right. The Child raises one hand in blessing, and in the other hand he holds a golden globe. Around 1608 two brothers found a small white bundle floated across the water toward them. It turned out to be the statue of Our Lady. It was attached to a board, was completely dry, and bore the inscription I am the Virgin of Charity. A shrine was built immediately, and instantly became a pilgrimage destination. At the request of the veterans of the War of Independence, Our Lady of Charity was declared the patroness of Cuba by Pope Benedict XV in 1916. Then image was solemnly crowned in the Eucharistic Congress at Santiago de Cuba in 1936. Pope Paul VI raised her sanctuary to a basilica in 1977. Pope John Paul II solemnly crowned her again in 1998.” See PICTURE of Our Lady of Charity of el Cobre. See also: September 8 – St. Mary, Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre: Patron Saint of Cuba. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Anastasia,  the Patron Saint against Poisoning, may come to the aid of those affected by the toxic hydrofluoric acid vapor leak in South Korea.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Toxic Hydrofluoric Acid Vapor Leak Map of South Korea Extract from Toxic leak in South Korea sickens thousands: “Seoul, South Korea (CNN) — October is supposed to be the busiest month of the year for Lim Chae-ho’s vineyards and rice fields in the southern part of South Korea. In a normal year, the 50-year-old farmer would be in the midst of harvesting the crops he had spent months cultivating. But a toxic leak from an explosion at a chemical plant in the nearby city of Gumi two weeks ago has left him empty handed. ‘Grapes and rice crops are withered and cannot be sold,’ Lim said over the phone. ‘All our neighbors are affected,’ he said. ‘My neighbor’s 60 cows are drooling and their noses are running with snot and blood. They are refusing to eat.’ Thousands of people in the area have been affected by the blast at the chemical factory on September 27, which killed 5 people and injured 18 others at the time. The exact cause of the explosion, which involved 8 tons of hydrofluoric acid, is still being investigated, according to authorities. But the blast spread toxic vapor from the acid — which is used for tasks like metal cleaning and rust removal — across the surrounding area. In the ensuing days, about 3,200 people have visited hospitals seeking treatment for ailments related to the leak, the city government said Sunday.”  See also: S Korea calls toxic leak area ‘disaster zone’, 3 000 treated after Korea toxic gas leak. VIDEO: South Korean Toxic Leak A “Special Disaster Zone”.  CTF/SOS DRS Response to Disasters in Asia: 2011-10 Floods in Thailand, Pakistan.

Saint Anastasia: Patron Saint against Poisoning (Feast Date: December 25) Extract fromExtract from Saint Anastasia: “St. Anastasia, inflamed with the love of God, occupied her time in consoling and succoring the Christians, particularly those who were in prison, who she exhorted to suffer for the faith. Having heard of the arrest of St. Chrysogonus, she hurried to his prison, and esteemed herself fortunate in having it in her power to be of service to him in this trial. . . .  St. Chrysogonus, by order of Diocletian on Nov. 24 in the year 303, was beheaded, but St. Anastasia continued her mission to the prisoners. . . . . Florus, . . . caused the saint to be shut up in prison, with the intention of starving her; but the Lord miraculously preserved her life. Florus transferred her to another prison thinking the jailer had transgressed his orders to starve her – but she continued to live without food. Florus then ordered her to be put on board a ship with 120 idolaters – the ship was bored with holes and was supposed to sink. The ship soon filled with water, but instead of sinking went ashore; and the miracle worked the conversion of all these persons, who afterwards had the glory of suffering martyrdom for Jesus Christ. St. Anastasia was then conducted to the island of Palmarola, under sentence of death; she consummated her triumph in the flames.” See Pictures of St. Anastasia.  See also December 25 – Saint Anastasia, Healer from Poison, Prayer to St. Anastasia.

Printable World Mission Rosary Intentions: October 22 – November 4, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.” Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen                                                           

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General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention–That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Florian of Lorch, the Patron Saint against Floods, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in Nigeria. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary Magdalene of Pazzi , the Patron Saint of the Sick, may come to the aid of those affected by neglected tropical diseases in Indonesia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Columbanus, the Patron Saint against Floods, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding in Dagestan, Russia.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

America (Red Beads)  

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of Charity of el Cobre, the Patron Saint of Cuba, may come to the aid of those affected by the sinking of a Cuban refugee raft near Cancun, Mexico.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Anastasia,  the Patron Saint against Poisoning, may come to the aid of those affected by the toxic hydrofluoric acid vapor leak in South Korea.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

For the complete version of the CTF/SOS DRS World Mission Rosary Intentions and more information about our work and mission, visit http://www.ctfmercy.org

World Mission Rosary Intentions: October 8 – October 21, 2012

Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services (SOS DRS)/Camillian Task Force (CTF)

“When the World Mission Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents,

all people in prayer.”

    Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

Instructions for Praying World Mission Rosary English;  Spanish;  Italian

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Kreyol Version

General Rosary Intention: That the Lord in His Divine Mercy – through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary – may build up His Kingdom, make these mysteries a reality in our lives, strengthen us in our common mission, and come to the aid of those for whom we pray.

Africa (Green Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Ursula, the Patron Saint of Students, may come to the aid of those affected by the terrorist massacre of at least 36 students at  the Federal Polytechnic in Mubi, Nigeria. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Africa.

Disaster: Terrorist Massacre of Students Map of Nigeria Extract from Gunmen open fire on students in Nigeria: “Scores of students were killed after gunmen burst into a university residence in north-eastern Nigeria hours after a disputed student union election led to rival gangs rampaging through the town. At least 32 students were shot or stabbed at Federal Polytechnic Mubi as armed union members attacked the residence during the night, a university official said. Residents said rival students killed the winner of the elections late on Sunday, then spread out in gangs across the town. ‘They were going door to door to find their victims, but anybody in the wrong place at the wrong time could have been killed,’ said one student. The spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency, Yushau Shuaib, said in a statement: ‘The crisis in Mubi is suspected to have been fuelled by campus politics after an election at the [college].’ A student told Associated Press that students had recently found a warning, believed to have been written by members of the radical Islamist sect Boko Haram, pasted on the gate of the female hostel in the campus ordering the authorities to evacuate the school. Mubi, in north-east Nigeria, has become awash with weapons and violence since Boko Haram began attacks there. More than 1,100 people have died in the group’s battle to impose a strict interpretation of sharia law on Nigeria’s 160-million strong population, evenly split between Muslims and Christians.” See also: Dozens of students ‘shot dead’ in Nigeria, Gunmen kill students at Nigerian college. VIDEO: Gunmen kill at least 26 students at Nigerian college.

Saint Ursula: Patron Saint of Students (Feast Date: October 21) Extract from SAINT URSULA and her COMPANIONS: Virgins and Martyrs at Cologne (†383): “Saint Ursula was born in Great Britain of Christian parents; her father, Maurus, was king of Cornubia in Scotland. Ursula was sought in marriage by a young pagan prince, but had already vowed her life and her heart to Jesus Christ.  In the year 383 she was boarded onto a boat with a large number of young girls and Christian women whom a Roman conqueror wished to give as wives to his soldiers, after having endowed them with rich terrains. But during the crossing of the Channel a storm arose, and the ships, instead of reaching western Gaul, were driven towards the mouth of the Rhine. The Huns who at that time were ravaging Europe saw the ships, and were making ready to pillage them and inflict on these virgins and women a dishonor more dreaded by them than death. Commanded by Ursula, they resisted heroically and so well that suddenly the sentiments of the barbarians changed. They took up their arms to be rid of this peaceful army. Soon the victims fell under the blows of the executioners, and their souls winged their way to heaven.  The prince of the Huns, struck by Ursula’s beauty, spared her at first; he tried to console her for the death of her companions and promised to marry her. When she did not assent he shot her with an arrow, and this consecrated virgin fell with the others.” See PICTURE of Saint Ursula. See also: October 21 – Saint Ursula: Patron Saint of Students and for a Holy Death, PRAYER for the Feast of Saint Ursula and Companion Virgin Martyrs.

Oceania (Blue Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of Saint Joseph of Cupertino, the Patron Saint of Air Travelers, may come to the aid of those affected by the plane crash in Queensland, Australia. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Oceania.

Disaster: Plane Crash Map of Australia Extract from Plane missing in Queensland with six people on board: THE pilot of a missing light airplane had been fundraising for charity before his craft carrying five people vanished in southeastern Queensland. Des Porter, 68, was giving scenic flights in his prized red 1930s biplane at an airshow in central Queensland this morning, according to the organiser of the Monto Fly-In. Mr Porter is one of six people on board the 1930s de Havilland DH84 which left the town of Monto, 180km west of Bundaberg, shortly after 11am (AEST). It’s believed the other passengers were two elderly couples and Mr Porter’s partner. The plane had been due to arrive at Caboolture Airport, north of Brisbane, about 2.15pm (AEST), but never arrived. A distress call from Mr Porter shortly after 1pm was picked up by a Nine Network helicopter pilot. Mr Porter said he was having difficulty positioning himself and wanted assistance, the helicopter pilot said. The aircraft’s emergency beacon was activated at about 2.45pm (AEST), according to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Police and Australian Search and Rescue are coordinating an air and land search which is west of the Imbil area and about 70km north of Caboolture.”  See also: Plane Missing In Australia Found: No Survivors. VIDEO: No survivors in crash of missing vintage plane found near Lake Borumba, west of Imbil. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in Oceania.

Saint Joseph of Cupertino: Patron Saint of Air Travellers (Feast Date: September 18) Extract from Joseph of Cupertino: “Joseph’s father, Felice Desa was a poor carpenter who died before the boy was born. Creditors drove his mother, Francesca Panara, from her home, and Joseph was born in a stable. Starting at age eight, he received ecstatic visions that left him gaping and staring into space. He had a hot temper, which his strict mother worked to overcome. . . .He applied to the Capuchins, was accepted as a lay-brother in 1620, but his ecstasies made him unsuitable for work, and he was dismissed. Abused by his family, he continued his prayers, and was accepted as an oblate at the Franciscan convent . . . he became a cleric at 22, a priest at 25. Joseph still had little education, could barely read or write, but received such a gift of spiritual knowledge and discernment that he could solve intricate questions. His life became a series of visions and ecstasies, which could be triggered any time or place by the sound of a church bell, church music, the mention of the name of God or of the Blessed Virgin or of a saint, any event in the life of Christ, the sacred Passion, a holy picture, the thought of the glory in heaven, etc. Yelling, beating, pinching, burning, piercing with needles – none of this would bring him from his trances, but he would return to the world on hearing the voice of his superior in the order. He would often levitate and float (which led to his patronage of people involved in air travel), and could hear heavenly music.  For 35 years he was not allowed to attend choir, go to the common refectory, walk in procession, or say Mass in church. . . . But Joseph retained his joyous spirit, submitting to Divine Providence.” Picture of St. Joseph of Cupertino. See also: September 18 – Saint Joseph of Cupertino: Patron Saint of Travelers, Air Travelers, Pilots and Students, Prayer to Saint Joseph of Cupertino.

Europe (White Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Mary, Our Lady of the Pillar of Saragossa,  the Patron Saint of Spain, may come to the aid of those affected by flooding there.  May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Europe.

Disaster: Flooding Map of Spain Extract from Spain floods: Ten die in Malaga, Almeria and Murcia: “Flood victim: ‘A car floated into my house. I have nothing left. I’m ruined.’ . . . The strength of the floods overturned cars, closed roads and railway lines, damaged bridges and homes, and forced hundreds to leave their properties. The hardest hit areas were the provinces of Malaga and Almeria, and the Murcia region. Further north in the town of Gandia, a tornado struck a temporary fairground, injuring 35 people, 15 seriously. Across parts of southern Spain, the clean-up has begun. Until now, there had been very little rain this year across Spain, and the south was particularly dry after the summer. So much rain, in such a short space of time led to some of the worst flooding Spain has seen in years, says the BBC’s Tom Burridge in Madrid.” See also: At least 10 die in floods in southern Spain, Flash floods kill 10 in Spain as torrential rain causes havoc. VIDEO: Deadly flash floods hit southern Spain.

Saint Mary, Our Lady of the Pillar of Saragossa: Patron Saint of Spain (Feast Date: October 12) Extract from Our Lady of the Pillar – Saragossa, Spain (ca. 40 AD): “After the crucifixion , resurrection and ascension of Jesus, his Apostles began to spread the message he left throughout Israel and shortly thereafter, through the Roman empire. One of these Apostles, James (the Greater), reportedly travelled as far west as Spain to the village of Saragossa in north east Spain. While James was there, he became disheartened because of the failure of his mission. Tradition holds that while he was deep in prayer Jesus’ Blessed Mother appeared to him and gave him a small wooden statue of herself and a column of jasper wood and instructed him to build a church in her honor: ‘This place is to be my house, and this image and column shall be the title and altar of the temple that you shall build.’ The jasper column and the wooden statue can still be seen on special occasions at a church that houses them. About a year after the apparition James arranged to build a small chapel in Mary’s honor, the first Church ever dedicated to the honor of the Virgin Mary.” See Picture of  Our Lady of the Pillar – Saragossa Spain.  See also: October 12 – Saint Mary, Our Lady of the Pillar of Saragossa: Patron Saint of Spain.

America (Red Beads)      

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Gianna Beretta Molla, the Patron Saint against Abortion, may come to the aid of those affected by abortion throughout America. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in America.

Disaster: Abortion Map of America Extract from  Cardinal Dolan on the US Election, the Radical Abortion License, Religious Liberty, Marriage, Debt and Solidarity, “;In the document “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship,; published by the bishops of the United States, we are reminded that, “In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation. This obligation is rooted in our baptismal commitment to follow Jesus Christ and to bear Christian witness in all we do.” And so, as I leave for Rome, I want to share with you some of the concerns that I will bring with me to the tombs of the apostles, SS. Peter and Paul, and to Assisi, the town of St. Francis. I am concerned about a culture that has become increasingly callous about the radical abortion license, and a legal system that affords more protection to endangered species of plants and animals than to unborn babies; that considers pregnancy a disease; that interprets ‘comprehensive health care” in such a way that it may be used to threaten the life of the baby in the womb (and, it should be noted, to exclude the undocumented immigrant as well).’ ‘I am concerned as well for the infirm and elderly who are nearing the end of life, that they will not be treated with the respect, dignity and compassion that is their due, but instead be encouraged to seek a hasty death before they can become, according to some, ‘a burden to society.’” Voters in Florida Are Set to Weigh in on Two Contentious Ballot Questions, Abortion in Cases of Rape: Todd Akin’s Gaffe Spotlights Catholic Teaching — Again, Abortion, The Catholic Church and Abortion. CTF/SOS DRS Recent Response to Disasters in America: Haiti, Chile.

Saint Gianna Beretta Molla: Patron Saint against Abortion (Feast Date: April 28) Extract from Saint Gianna Beretta Molla: “Tenth of thirteen children born to Alberto and Maria Beretta, she was a pious girl raised in a pious family; one sister became a nun, and two brothers, including Enrico Beretta became priests. While in college, she worked with the poor and elderly, and joined the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Physician and surgeon, graduating from the University of Pavia in 1949, she started a clinic in Mero, Italy in 1950. She returned to school and studied pediatrics, and after finishing in 1952 she worked especially with mothers, babies, the elderly, and the poor. Active in Catholic Action, and a avid skier. She considered a call to religious life, but was married to Pietro Molla on 24 September 1955 at Magenta. Mother of three, she continued her medical career, treating it as a mission and gift from God. During her pregnancy with her fourth child, she was diagnosed with a large ovarian cyst. Her surgeon recommended an abortion in order to save Gianna’s life; she refused and died a week after childbirth, caring more for doing right by her unborn child than for her own life. Today that child is a physician herself, and involved in the pro-life movement.”  Picture of St. Gianna Beretta Molla. See also: April 28 – Saint Gianna Beretta Molla: Patron Saint Against Abortion,  Prayers of St. Gianna.

Asia (Yellow Beads)

Intention – That the Lord Jesus through the intercession of St. Peter Gonzales,  the Patron Saint of Mariners, may come to the aid of those affected by the ferry accident near Lamma Island, west of Hong Kong. May the Lord help all those affected by man-made and natural disasters in Asia.

Disaster: Ferry Accident near Lamma Island Map of Hong Kong Extract from Dozens dead after passenger vessels collide off Hong Kong: “At least 36 people have died after two passenger boats collided off Hong Kong’s Lamma Island on Monday evening, throwing more than 100 people into the sea. The crash happened on a night when Hong Kong’s busy waters were even more crowded than usual, as the city celebrated China’s National Day. One of the vessels, owned by The Hong Kong Electric Company, was carrying company employees and their families to watch the scheduled fireworks display when it was struck by a passenger ferry traveling from Hong Kong Island to Lamma. Government officials said the collision occurred off Lamma’s coast at around 8:20 p.m. local time. ‘I thought we’d hit a rock or a lighthouse,’ said Chris Head, a school teacher who was on the passenger ferry that crashed into the Hong Kong Electric vessel. He said the force of the impact threw him out of his seat at the back of the ferry, which was not very full of people. As the damaged ferry began to move toward the pier in the small town of Yung Shue Wan on Lamma, Head said he could see the other boat had started to sink into the water vertically, like the Titanic.” See also: Causes of Deadly Hong Kong Crash Probed,   Hong Kong police arrest 7 in harbor collision that killed 38 people. VIDEOS: Hong Kong boat collision kills 36, Hong Kong ferry collision claims 36 lives, Hong Kong ferry collision kills 36 – CBS News Video, Hong Kong mourns victims of ferry collision. CTF/SOS DRS Response to Disasters in Asia: 2011-10 Floods in Thailand, Pakistan.

Saint Peter Gonzalez: Patron Saint of Mariners (Feast Date: April 14) Extract from Bl. Peter Gonzales: “Peter Gonzales, also known as St. Elmo or St. Telmo, was born to a Castilian family of nobility. He was educated by his uncle, the Bishop of Astorga, named canon of the local cathedral, famous for his penances and mortifications, joined the Dominican Order, preached and made chaplain of the court of King St. Ferdinand III. He converted and influenced the soldiers of his country, evangelized, and died on Easter Sunday. He was canonized by Pope Benedict XIV in 1741. Peter evangelized throughout his country and all along the coast. He had a special fondness for sailors. He used to visit them aboard their ships, preaching the Gospel and praying for their needs.” See PICTURE of St. Peter Gonzales. See also April 14 – Saint Peter Gonzales: Patron Saint of Mariners.