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'Be Charitable'
Lord God, who are all good and worthy of all our love, please help us show the greatest degree of charity possible for your sake.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at Focus
I was wonderful to have meet Bernadette a friend of Christine, who is has helped Focus in the past & is now working on our ‘new’ Focus Newletter, after 9 years in being in the community. Thank you Christine for making this possible. Bernadette came into the center to talk with me for the introductory for the newsletter. She was so nice & she shared with me some things I will hold in my heart. It was a blessing for me. This is so exciting.
I had put on my email that I needed office help & I got a response. Heather came in today for an interview. We talked for awhile. I told her what I needed help with in the office. There was a problem with her schedule so she said that if it works out she will get back with me. I hope that she can come back to Focus & work with me in the office. We’ll see.
Martha & I were busy assisting our many clients with their needs. Linda came in the afternoon to help us out. We were grateful to see our clients come in to talk with them. I was busy in the office & Martha was busy in the Material Aid Rooms......so much to do.
'The Power of Service'
Real power is found in service. Just like Jesus, who didn't come to be served, but to serve, his service was seen on the Cross. He humbled Himself unto death. He died on a Cross for us, to serve us, to save us. –Pope Francis
Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at Focus
Another busy day, at the Focus pregnancy, which is what we want. Lynda came in to help us & were we blessed by her presence. We had some donations brought in & we were grateful. I worked in the office....so busy. Martha worked putting away the many bags of donations that we receive. Lynda put the Rosaries in snack bags for our clients. We greeted many girls that came in today. When I see then I try to say “have you talked to God today”? I say “don’t forget to go to church this Sunday & if you don’t have a church look around for a good one”. If they are fallen away Catholics I am better able to assist to find a Parish & stress that they need to go to Confession before going to Holy Communion. Gene, bought us many booklets about the Catechism of the Catholic Church, so I give them one to take with them. We work on their souls too.
'Leading the Way'
Lord, give us the humility to know that you, not we, are responsible for converting people. Use us as conduits who are ever mindful of your sovereignty and help us bring many souls to you.
Thursday, May 8, 2014 at Focus
This is my hardest day, for Planned Parenthood murders innocent children surgically. My heart sinks, every day, because we’re killing little precious babies. Lord have Mercy on the World.
When I walked into the center I saw that Frank had been there to drop off all the food from the Mormons. It was a $1,000 worth of supplies for our clients. We are blessed once a year with this blessing. Thanks Sharleen!!!
Martha told me that someone had put a hole in the Planned Parenthood sign, so it now reads Planned Paren....d. What goes around comes around. I feel that it was probably a man who’s baby was killed by them. His pain was so intense & this is what he did ...I don’t know for sure. I took a picture.
There were many people out on the sidewalk which makes me feel better & they pray & witness the Truth to all who go into the mill. When I got into the center Martha was already there, for she comes out in the morning to be on the sidewalk, to witness. She tells me what has happened when she was there. It’s so hard. She spoke to a women who didn’t speak good English that her two young daughter were in there. Martha spoke to her & she went in for a short time & later came out & smiled & waved to her. Martha doesn’t know what happened. I know that the whole day is now covered by praying people, from 9 am to 5 pm. Thank God!!
Kay & Jack, from St. Pius the Tenth Church, came in with more food today. They told me that they will be back next Tuesday with baby supplies from the 'Showers of Love' annual collection. Thank you so much!!!
I was getting the center ready, for the interview from Job, who was going to do a video for our ‘new’ Focus website. I was nervous. He came & we talked for about 30 minutes sharing some ideas & testimonies. Then he did 4 videos. Two with my hair up & two with my hair down....vain. I just spoke about Focus, nothing written down or prepared, it came from my heart. He said that it would be up soon & he was right so here it is. Just go to the address bar & put in www.focusphc.com to see it for yourself. We are continually working on it to improve it. Adding information, testimonies & videos, etc.. We are blessed that God sent us Job for the ‘new’ Focus website & Christine for the ‘new’ Focus Newsletter. We are 9 years old in June & God has blessed us every year to improve our ministry....thank you Lord!
I was made aware of a wonderful website for you to check into. It's: http://chastityproject.com/. Thank you Jason Evert & your Team.
'Loving Family'
Jesus, in your family life, you grew in wisdom, age and grace before God and people. Help us to follow the same path on our journey toward a loving union with you. With your guidance we can live in a family united in respect and love.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at Focus
Another very busy day at Focus. Martha & I got to the center after Mass this afternoon & when we got there we were busy from the start. I went over to say “hi” to Dick & Christine who were praying on the sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood. The abortionist, Rachael Phelps, car was in the parking lot. How sad. I spoke with Christine for a short time & she said that the Focus Newsletter was almost ready to send. I was happy to hear this great news!! I went back into the center & was greeted by the new Fidelis Care counselor Cathy. She will be at Focus on every Tuesday from 1 pm to 4 pm. This is also great news. I asked the men next door to help take out the many donation bags that I got from the Second Thought Resale Shoppe, before Mass this morning. I was grateful for their kindness.
The doorbell rang & rang so we were busy when the doorbell rang again & it was Kay & Jack delivering many boxes of donations from the parishioners at St. Pius the Tenth Church, in Chili, New York. They brought two helper with them, Carol & Mary. I was overwhelmed by the extent of the many boxes filled with diapers, clothes, & formula, etc.. It was specular!!! I was so grateful. After Kay & Jack & Mary left Carol stayed to talk with me about volunteering at Focus. I brought her in to the office & spoke to her for about 15 minutes. She said that she would be back on Thursday to help us out. I was glad to hear that she will be back to help in the Material Aid Rooms & she has office skills in organizing.........fantastic!!! Lynda emailed me later to tell me that she will be at Focus on Thursday afternoon to help us out.........yeah!!!
Linda came to help out like she does every Tuesday.....thank you for your faithfulness. Our client Maria was with us when the many boxes of donations cane in....thank you Lord for Maria too. Martha & did not eat lunch today.
I answered the doorbell & there was one of our former clients. I asked her how she was doing & she said "not good". I then heard her story & began to help her. I called an organization but they were unable to help her with housing. I then gave her many referral papers for her to call for housing. I gave her food & diapers as she shopped for her two children who were with their grand parents. The boyforend & the father of these children was in the car waiting for her. She had left but had come back saying that i gave her the wrong size diapers. She followed me in the Great Room where we have some personal items & she said that she needrd shampoo & toothpaste for she left it in the apartment that she was invicted from. I said to her that she needs to make bettter choices in her life & then gave her a prayer Rosay & told her to pray it every day. Martha also added her tough love message too. Sometimes it works. We love our girls & pray the best for them & their children.
'How Love Is Judged'
The most trivial work, the least action when inspired by love, is often of greater merit than the most outstanding achievement. It is not on our face value that God judges our deeds, even when they bear the stamp of apparent holiness, but solely on the measure of love we put into them. —St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus
Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at Focus
When Martha got to Focus after Mass we were busy right away. Our clients need our assistance & some of them depend on us. Were are also getting new people at the pregnancy center usually from word of mouth. I had someone put the donations in the Storage Room before they are put to the two Material Rooms. The doorbell rings & either Martha or have to answer it. Today we were surprised to see Paul come in to help us out & he stayed for a long. Around 1:30 pm Lynda came in t assist us with many tasks. Today I asked her if she would call our pregnant clients to see how they are doing & if they need anything. She was nice enough to say “yes”. Later on she told me that we have a new baby born on Saturday, May 10th. & her name is Joy & she was born 8 lbs.. Mother & child are doing well. I was sooooo happy to hear this fantastic news!!! She got through with some girls & others the phone situation was the same.....unable to reach at that number. It’s frustrating to say the least. God knows that we have had many baby’s born & were not able to reach the new moms but I thank God that the precious baby’s were born. Also, the girls know where we are & what we offer & if they need us again they will come back.
Also, the prayer request for Miss K. has turned out very well. I was told that her & her boyfriend did go for the ultrasound appointment & heard their baby's heartbeat & saw a picture of their precious little baby. She is now happy, thank God! Thank you Dr. Karen for your care of our client. This was also great news too :)
I spoke with Dr. K. who does the ultrasounds for us & other pregnancy centers & she said “the medical field has lost it’s soul”. Wow, what a statement by a doctor but she is a special one for she doesn’t prescribe contraceptive drugs nor referrers for abortions nor does abortions, so she’s rare & abides with the Catholic teachings. Please pray for her & in her medical field of General Medicine. Thank you!
'You are Precious!
When not accepted by others, even by yourself sometimes, He is the one who always accepts you. Only believe—you are precious to Him. Bring all your suffering to His feet—only open your heart to be loved by Him as you are. He will do the rest. —Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Thursday, May 15, 2014 at Focus
My most difficult day. When I arrived at the pregnancy center Martha was already there. Kathy & Tom were out on the front lines & they came into Focus after Rescue Rochester arrived. We were busy right away. About 10 minutes later Maria came to help us & Carol, from St. Pius the Tenth Church, came to help us too. I orientated her to Focus & asked her if she’d help out Martha & Maria in the Storage Room. She said “yes she would”. I was grateful because of what these ladies did today was so important, for what happened the next day was a ‘flood at Focus’. I received a call from Ney on Friday at 12:30 pm saying that she had bad news & good news. I said that I wanted the bad news first & she told me that the rain water backed up into all the buildings in the strip mall because of a clog in the pipes in the street & the after had no where to go but into the strip mall buildings. What is the good news I asked & she said “the water didn’t come from the ceiling & only one box of clothes got wet & I will take it home to wash”. She also said that because the clothes, in the Storage Room, were put in plastic bins the clothes were protected from the water. So Focus was closed this Friday so the landlord could dry the carpets. Okay Lord I need to accept this challenge. I did thank God for this situation would have been far worse if these ladies didn’t do what they did in the Storage Room. The Lord new & got us ready for this Natural Disaster.
Martha told me that when she was out on the front lines this morning she got to talk to a man whose baby was being killed in Planned Parenthood, he was hear with his sister to try again to save his child’s life but wasn’t successful. So much pain & grief Planned Parenthood causes. It’s ruining lives & the community.
Martha called the young girl who was abortion minded & was going to have an abortion in secret but thank God went to His Branches for an ultrasound with her boyfriend. When she called the young lady she was excited that she saw her baby & heard her baby’s heartbeat & so did her boyfriend. Yeah!!! Life is precious handle with care !!
Greatest Achievement
The greatest romance we will ever experience is God's passionate love. The greatest adventure is the journey into His kingdom. The greatest achievement is to live as a faith-filled brother or sister of Jesus, the Savior. —Cardinal Joseph Bernardin
Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Focus
As I was coming to Focus my heart was sinking because of the flood. Martha was there in the morning with Frank to help her out, which I was glad about. I knew that I must face the pregnancy center’s woo so when I got there I entered the door quickly. The foul smell was there but the center didn’t look as bad as it was on Friday I can imagine. I saw Martha & greeted her & then I saw John Mc Q. who was with her for Frank had left earlier. I started working on putting things away & to acclimate myself to Focus. I left that she was injured so now was I here to help her recover. My hear ached. I spoke with John for about a couple of minutes & then he had to leave. Then Martha had to go to the store for some things for our evening Mass & to pick up Eleanor. I was now by myself with Focus. I quickly worked to get things done for our Mass tonight & to assist the clients that were coming into the center for their needs to be met. Thank God Paul arrived & I put him to work immediately. The doorbell rang & it was Todd to he;p us out. He did a lot of things that were helpful. Dan the landlord came in & I spoke with him for a short time. So much going on. I thanked God that Martha & Eleanor had come around 2 pm which was a relief.
Martha did a pregnancy test which was negative & the client was married so she gave her a brochure with Anne O.’s name on it for Natural Family Planning. Great job Martha.
The fans were running to come against the smell & to help dry the rugs. We sprayed a Deodorizer often apologizing to our incoming clients. The doorbell rang & I went to the door to greet the Fidelas Care Counselor who was taking the place of Kathy, our new counselor, who was in Buffalo for ordination. This lady was so nice & friendly. Later on Todd went in to visit with her.
I was in the office working diligently now looking at my watch worrying about Fr. Joe’s arrival. I walked in to the Great Room to see him all in his Priestly garments sitting on the chair by the alter. I saw so many people sitting in the chairs that were set up for the Mass. I went over to him saying “Fr. Joe. I’m sorry for I didn't know that you had arrived & then gave him a hug. He smiled & greeted me. I was in the office to long tonight. Martha & Eleanor had gone to Martha’s apartment for she had forgotten the chicken salad sandwiches for supper & she wasn't back yet so I asked Fr. Joe if he could wait 5 minutes before starting Mass. He said that he wasn't going anywhere. When he had started Mass he said “I am not Fr. Edison”. How funny. The Mass was beautiful & the company was great & the food was so delicious. What a night at our smelly wet Focus.
'Covenant of Love'
By its very nature, marriage was instituted by God as a lifelong covenant. Its purpose is the well-being of the spouses and the procreation and upbringing of their children. Christ elevated marriage to the dignity of a sacrament.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 at Focus
When I arrived I had just pulled into the parking lot & the phone rang & while this was going on I spotted a young girl coming out of Planned Parenthood walking down the street. I answered the phone first & then parked & then got out to approach the young lady only to see that she was walking into our parking lot. I greeted her & asked her if she was coming into Focus & she said that she was. She then said quickly that she was pregnant. I said that we could help her. Then I said that I had seen her come out of Planned Parenthood & she said that she was just waiting for us to open & went over there to wait. I then asked her if the brown paper bag she was holding had condoms in it . She said "yes' & then I told her about condoms & she gave me the bag filled with them. I threw them away. She was excited to come into Focus to get the things that she needed for her other child. I gave her a Truth packet & some DVD's to take with her. She was a nice young lady. Just before she left I said to her not to go to Planned Parenthood for anything because they kill little babies. She said that she doesn't go there for she has her own doctor. Thank God!
Carol came in to help us today. I wanted her in the office to help me but Martha needed her in the Storage Room & the two Material Aid Rooms so I asked her if she would work with Martha & she said that she would. I had to be in the office to work on a 'Thank You' letter to the Church of the Assumption, in Fairport. When Lynda came in she said that she wanted to go to the front lines to pray & to witness. I gave her two packets of literature & some Rosaries & DVD's to take with her on the sidewalk. She was outside for an hour & then came back into Focus & called our pregnant clients to see how the were doing & if they needed anything. Team work....it's wonderful!!
Martha did a pregnancy test to a married woman & it was negative. She was given a brochure for Natural Family Planning. I hope that both these women, one from yesterday & the other today will call Anne Olek to get information & knowledge. Martha did another pregnancy test & it was negative but she wasn't married so she received information about abstinence & other things.
So much to do but we had great volunteers to help Martha today & the Storage room looks better until tomorrow when more donation bags come into the center. Busy day for we saw 17 clients. Needless to say we go home tired but happy that the people in the community are being assisted for 'free'. We want happy families :)
'Profession of Faith'
We begin our profession of faith with God. He is the origin, or beginning of everything created, and the end or purpose for which everything in the world exists.
Thursday, May 22, 2014 at Focus
Yesterday I had emailed Mike Warren, from Rescue Rochester, to ask him if last Thursday the neighbor across the street from Planned Prenthood had called the police on him because of the mega phone. Well this afternoon Martha said that Mike walked over to the neighbors condo with a paper inhis hands. I thought that maybe he had proof that her could use the mega phone but I was wrong. When Mike came out he walked over to us on the sidewalk & said that he had a coffee certificate for him & he apologized for the noise. It was accepted. This was great to hear. That's what it means to be a loving Christian.
Job was now her to set up a Facebook page for Focus. He did it in 20 minutes & will improve upon it as time goes on. Then the Insurance man came to inspect the center for dampness & there was. Dan later told me that a man was coming tomorrow to see what he could do to drain out the baseboards in the inner walls. Sorry Ney for Fridays are your day. This will probably happen on Saturday or Monday hopefully on Saturday so there won't be any mold or mildew at Focus. They might have to drill a hole in the walls & put a machine in it to suck out the moisture. I hope that it won't be messy or we have to take things down again. Dan, the landlord, will call me tomorrow to talk to me after the man comes to discern the facility's care.
Martha was on the front lines earlier & when I came in she asked me to call His Branches to make an ultrasound appointment for a girl who was walking down the sidewalk with her boyfriend & knew that she was pregnant. I called & spoke to Barb & she gave me next Wednesday at 1:30 pm for the test. I called the young lady & gave her the information. I hope that she will go.
Martha did two more pregnancy test & they were negative. She then spoke to the girls & gave them information to take with them. I hope they read the materials.
Martha & now Maria who had come to help us worked so long & hard in the Storage Room to make some sense of it know that we had more donations come in. They both did a fantastic job!!! I'm the office worker I guess.
Donna M. came in with her two children & I got to talk with her for about 15 minutes. She's running for Governor in New Your with the Constitution Party. Very pro life!!! It was great seeing her ....go Donna go!!! She will come back again soon. As she was leaving she walked into the Material Aid Room where I was talking to our regular client who brought in her daughter & grand baby. She told me that her son was re arrested & was in jail (not in the City) because he didn't pay the surcharge. He didn't read hi paperwork. Not good. He was getting out tomorrow but he has no way to get home. So what did Donna do but to offer her services to pick this 19 year boy from jail & to bring him home to his mother. Wow!!! She later said that maybe her husband would do this for her....lets hope so Donna. One never knows what will happen at Focus. The Lord provides!
We saw 12 clients today with a total of 710 people so far that we've seen at Focus in 2014!!! Thank you Lord!!!!!!!!!!
'Virtue of Hope'
In running the race of faith, we need to keep our eyes on our prize: eternal salvation and glory in Jesus Christ. This is known as the virtue of hope.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at Focus
When I arrived at the pregnancy center I saw Christine, praying on the sidewalk on her knees, in front to Planned Parenthood, it was a beautiful sight. I went into the center to see that all the fans & dehumidifiers were roaring away. I was numb. I called the landlord right away & got his voice mail twice. I left a message for a call back ASAP. Martha said “I’m want go home”. “Oh no Martha this will be taken care of don’t worry”. I said to her. We felt the pain.
I went outside to speak with Christine & saw that she was talking with a young girl & guy so I didn’t want to disturb her so I went back in the center. Martha said “Mary the refrigerator is off”. The start of the afternoon. When the landlord called me back he said that he was coming over in a few minutes. Now I have something else to discuss with him. When he arrived I told him about our bad food & he said that he would reimburse us so later on I made a list of the food that we lost in the refrigerator & the freezer. I said to him that we couldn’t hear the doorbell & it was so horribly loud in the center to work in it. He said that he would turn off the machines & turn them back on 3 hours later.....you have a deal. I brought what I had & what Martha brought in & went over to our neighbors Mack & asked if I could put them in his refrigerator & he did. What a nice man. Martha suggested that she goes to Wendy's for lunch so I gave her a ten dollar bill & asked for a hamburger & small fries. Off she went to get our lunch. Just them Christine was at the door telling me that she was talking to a young girl & that she said that she wanted an abortion & her & her boyfriend went into Planned Parenthood without talking any literature that was offered to them. My heat sank. Before Martha had gone to Wendy's she offered to go out on the front lines with a graphic sign, literature & DVD’s to witness. We thought hat Christine had left but she didn’t. Praise God!!!! I was in then center working when I let a young man in for men;s clothes & I saw that Christine was also in the center & she said to me, that the young lady said that she was going home & wasn’t going to have an abortion”. Thank you Lord!!!! I was so happy & relieved. God bless you Christine for your great work. When they came out of Planned Parenthood the girl asked Martha what was she holding & she said “a picture of an aborted baby”. “Oh how horrible”, she said back. Then she & her boyfriend left. Martha said that the parking lot didn’t have many cars in it & that some of the women going in left very soon....great news ladies!!!!! Martha now went to get our lunch & I was by myself in the center.
It was now 1:30 pm & Catherine, from Fidelis Care, came in & I greeted her & then lead her to the pregnancy testing room so she could work until 4:30 pm. Usually we don’t have pregnancy tests on Tuesday but today we had four.
I saw the client at the door so I went to it & opened the door. I greeted her & she asked for a pregnancy test. I was in turmoil but decided to do the best I could. I apologized for the situation & lead her in to the main room. She filled out the Intake Sheet & I gave her a cup & showed her the bathroom & then she did the pregnancy test on the box on the table. I hope tomorrow will be better. We are using the ‘new’ pregnancy test which I like a lot. It takes three drops of urine for the testing & three minutes for the results. Much better! Her test was ‘negative’ so I had a talk with her. I went & got her a Truth packet & all of our DVD’s & more brochures. She said that she was trying to get pregnant. I said that is only with your husband & your not married. I talked to her about many thing in our time frame. She asked me for Adoption information, for she wanted a child, so I gave her Bethany Christian Services, an adoption agency & asked her to call to talk with one of the counselors. One never knows, though I don’t think that she has the financial means, but she has the heart. She was a nice young lady. Martha came back later on with my hamburger & fries. She put my change on my desk in the office which was about $5.00, later on it was gone (stolen). There were two people I am thinking of that took it. So sad. We started to eat lunch when I heard the doorbell & got up to answer the door. All day today we had mothers with children come into Focus.
I was s o happy that Martha was now with me now. Focus was in such disarray & it was so upsetting to me & Martha. The doorbell rang & it was a young lady with a young man & two small children came into the center. I showed them the two Material Aid rooms & after they shopped they went to the food pantry to get some food. On the way to the front door she stopped & said “do you do pregnancy tests”. I said “yes we do”. I went & got Martha who was just finishing up an other pregnancy test which was negative. There really wasn’t any place to do the tests but we found areas to do them. Next week I will be asking the Fidelis Care woman to move to the Great Room were she will have privacy & we will have our pregnancy testing/educational room back again. That will work out much better for us & for our clients. Martha did the test & I saw that it was positive. The client said that she had had a pregnancy test & a Depo shot at Freedom of Choice on Lattimere Rd. This is really an abortion clinic & I told her so. I asked if she would like to have an ultrasound done & she said “yes” so I called & made an appointment for the next day at 1:45 pm at His Branches. I wanted her to have appointment soon for when I said to her earlier that I hope she wasn’t thinking of an abortion she replied “I am now”. I told her that it was a murder against her own flesh & blood & showed her pictures of an abortion & the man who was with her. I asked if he was the father of this baby she was carrying & he said that he was the father of these two children too. I asked if they were talking about marriage & she he said that they did at one time. I said maybe that time is now. I don’t encourage bad marriages & this isn’t one of them. He needs to make her his wife for she is the mother of his children. It’s so hard Lord, please continue to help me. I then gave her the brochure for her ultrasound appointment & told her to drink lots of water before hand. I gave them directions & he was satisfied he knew how to get there. We all said ‘good bye” & they all left. I was worried that she would befall an abortion. I prayed for her hoping that she would not choose death for her precious unborn baby.
Again the doorbell kept on ringing. Either Martha or I answered the door to let our clients in. I saw that the pregnant young lady was back with a young guy with her. I always feel uneasy when I see her for her friends stole money from Ney but when I confronted her she said that she was not a part of that action. I believed her but now I wonder if she was involved. So much to worry about. I asked Martha if she would talk with her because she was at Focus last Thursday with a young man too. She said that she will be induced with this baby that she’s carrying on Friday. She has two sets of twins & another child & now this child & she isn’t married & I spoke to her about abstinences when I did a pregnancy test on her a year ago when it was negative but she didn’t listen. One only hopes & prays that she will do the right thing & this girl is a Catholic too. Lets say I’m watching her & her friends when they come into Focus. Martha gave her more diapers & said to her that she can come back once a month. I hope she listens.
Linda came now it was about 4 pm, we were happy to see her today. We all went about our work when the doorbell rang. I went to the door & there were two young people there standing, a guy & a girl & a young child in a stroller. I let them in & showed them the two rooms to shop. I asked how they new about Focus & she said it was the sign on the sidewalk. I was happy to hear that. A few minutes later I saw that the young man was all over the center which made me nervous. The I heard him say something not nice to the little child. I went over to him & said that I was not happy in what I heard & for him not to do that again. The mother then said to me “he’s my 14 year old brother & he’s immature”. I said that is child abuse & it can’t continue. I hope & pray that this mother will ALWAYS protect her innocent child from him & from others. Lord have Mercy!!! I do suspect him as one of the ones that could have possible stolen my money on my desk. God & he or she know for sure. I had to forgive whoever it was & to be more careful when I’m away from the office. I wished that I had put it away right away but I didn’t...........I’m still learning. A very hectic day!!!!
'Mary, Console Us'
Mary, console us in our times of fear and hurt and sadness. Ask your Son to heal us of what keeps us from fully giving ourselves to Him spiritually, physically, and mentally. As you relieve us from the burdens of this life, may we return to you in thanksgiving, always acknowledging, always grateful.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at Focus
When I arrived at the center I saw the men who have the fans & dehumidifier there. I said “yeah you’re taking it all out” He replied “not so fast for we’re not”. He continues that the fans were turned off & some of them had been moved, so they we’re gong to come back at 4:30 on to do it again. “Okay” Ii said we’ll see you then”. At least it’ll be quit until then. So much noise is,’t good at a pregnancy center. I went into the center to start my work. Again it was so busy. We still had the big fans all aound us but at least they were tuned off!!
Lynda came at 2 pm & it so great having her here to help us. She was busy answering the door & helping our clients. I was in the office working & Martha was in the storage room putting things away. The phone rang & it was Barb, at Embracing Options, in regards to the pregnant mom from yesterday saying that she didn't come in for her ultrasound. My heart sank. I asked Barb if she would call her & then call me back & she said that she would. A few minutes later she called me back to say that her phone didn't work, which is typical, When I hung up I called her too, to no avail. I gave this to God. Only He could save this little baby from being killed. He did!!! It was about an hour later I received a call from a Social Worker about our pregnant client from yesterday. She said that she needed a written letter saying that she was positive from a pregnancy test for the client had to take it to Strong Hospital. I asked her if she was going for an abortion & she said “no, it was for her pre natal care”. My heart was happy now. She said that she could be there in 20 minutes & I said that was fine & hung up. I went over to tell Martha & Lynda what just happened. They both rejoiced too. Martha was just finishing her late lunch when the doorbell rang & I got up to answer it to see our client, from yesterday,& another woman who was with her, standing there. I smiled at her & said “hello” & then asked her why she missed her ultrasound appointment this afternoon. She said that she forgot that she had her GED program to attend. I said “okay”. I was just so happy that she was here. I then said to her that I thought that she might go for an abortion & she said “no, I wouldn't do that”.....music to my ears. Martha wrote the letter, & I gave it to the Social Worker, who was waiting in the car & spoke with her for a minute. I was so relieved. I told her to come back to Focus again & then I said “good bye” to them all. Thank you Lord!!
'True Flesh'
If we treat the Eucharist as though it were just bread and wine, we sin against Jesus, as Paul said in 1 Corinthians. Ask for God's mercy on all the times you have “casually” received Him. And next time you are at Mass, reflect more deeply on the miracle before you.
Thursday, May 29, 2014 at Focus
Feast of the Accession of Our Lord into Heaven
Martha & I went to Mass for the feast day & she got to Focus before me. When I entered the center I walked to the back & saw a young lady with a small baby in a stroller. All of a sudden I heard “Mary, this is Christine”. I had no time to think& I just said “hi Christine”. She smiled. I forgot the past & went to the present. I was happy that she had this precious baby after two abortions which effected us so greatly. We counseled her during her second pregnancy for I didn’t know her during her first pregnancy. I had written about Christine in the past. She is now here with her baby daughter which is all I saw. The baby was so cute, my heart melted. After a few minutes I was able to hold her & was so happy. Martha remembered what we went through with Christine but you wouldn’t have noticed. We try to love. Teaching is important too. I have noticed that women who have had abortions usually get pregnant again & keep their baby. They feel empty & are remorseful of what they did. we talked for a few minutes & I gave her back her baby. We talked for a short time & she had to go, I invited her back when she can get back to Focus. She has matured & I said that I was proud of her. Hope to see them again. Thank you Lord.
I saw that the fans were still there & on, I have to get used to this arrangement. The doorbell rang & there was Carol & a few minutes later Barb came in to assist us. Martha had them help her which was fine. I worked in the office. It’s all good. I wrote a ‘Thank You’ letter to one of the churches that blessed us so much & then I made up Truth packets & did other things too. At the end of week I want to make sure all is done.
Tonight we had to leave early to attend Jann’s , the Life Coordinator of the Diocese of Rochester, retirement party at the Inn On Broadway, down the street we turn on Scio which runs into Broadway, a short distance. It was marvelous & we saw so many people that we knew. When I looked up I saw Bishop Matano walk in with a young priest. I was delighted. I walked over to him & said “I want to thank you Bishop Matano for making Fr. Antinarelli, our new Pastor at Our Lady of Victory Church, you made him happy & all the parishioners too”. He then asked me if I was a parishioner there & I said “yes”. He smiled & responded “at least I’m doing something right”. How wonderful was it for me meeting him again. Later on he gave a great & humble talk abut Jann. What a great evening with good people & fine food.
(Great News! Suzanne has a new job!!)
Monday, June 2, 2014
'Diocese names new life-issues coordinator'
By Amy Kotlarz/Catholic Courier
The Diocese of Rochester announced June 2 that Suzanne M. Stack, who has worked in local parish ministry for more than a decade, will become diocesan life-issues coordinator on June 24th..
She succeeds Jann Armantrout, who retired in May.
Stack, a native of Rochester, has a master’s degree in theology from Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C., and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Buffalo State College. She is working toward a master's degree in divinity at St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry.
Stack is director of faith formation for Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Brockport. Earlier in her career she served as a pastoral associate, retreat facilitator and campus minister. She has been a frequent public speaker and presenter on church-related topics.
She also volunteers at Focus Pregnancy Help Center in Rochester, is active with Feminists for Non-Violent Choices of New York, and participates in the 40 Days for Life prayer campaign. She also has met with state legislators for education and advocacy on life issues through the New York State Catholic Conference.
'What the World Needs'
The whole world needs to hear two things with strength and power: “God loves you” and “I love you.” You must say it often to your friends. This world isn't starving from a lack of money. It's starving from a want of love. —
Mother Angelica
Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at Focus
After Mass Martha & I went to Focus & immediately we were busy. We barely go the doors to the rooms opened & there was a young man asking for diapers & formula. a special Enfamil formula for his 2 month old child where he his girlfriend & daughter are living at the Cadillac Hotel. He commented that it was dirty. We didn’t have that particular formula so Martha gave him $20 of her own money to purchase it at the Dollar General on Main St.. I was able to reimburse her. What a nice gesture that she did for this man & his daughter Anastasia. She also called a couple of places to see if they could help him but they were unable. She gave him all of our referral sheets from the Material Aid Room. He also needed a can opener so I was able to retrieve one from the drawer, we had two. He needed food too but forgot to get it. While he was at Focus I asked him to move some things around & he did. He was a help to us. He asked for a Bible so I gave him one plus two Rosaries & the pocket Catechism of the Catholic Church & a leaflet on ‘How to make a good Confession’. I asked him if he had found a church & he said that he did. It was Our Lady of the Americas on East Main St.. I asked if he had missed any Masses & he said that he didn’t. He told me that the mother of his child was his wife but Martha though he said ‘girlfriend’ to her so I’m not sure so I hope that they are living without sex. The soul is to precious to be lost. As this was going on Pastor Dave came in with three young men to bring more donations to us. It was marvelous. I asked him if they would pray for this young man& they did. It was beautiful. He said to me that he felt that the Lord told him to come today to Focus. I’m glad that he listened. As this was going on Catherine form Fidelis Care came & I showed her her new residence in the Great Room. It worked out better for her & for us. She had her nice space in the corner of the room. As this was going the doorbell rang & it was Christine & her son Connor, from St. John of Rochester Church, to help us. I was so happy to see them. As this was going on our landlord, Dan, came in & I got to talk to him about some things in the center. Our Oriental Rug, which was hanging outside on the fence was stolen, what did I expect. Thank God that the walls are dry & there was NO mold or mildew in the center....yeah!!!
I went outside to say hello to Chris & Dick, who were praying in front to Planned Parenthood & as we were talking a woman came out of Planned Parenthood with a band aid on her arm....the dreaded Depo Provera shot. I walked with her until I got to Focus & spoke to her abut the shot & the danger to her & an unborn baby. She said that she was getting it for her periods. I said that you need to go to your doctor (she said that she had one) & get better medicine fro your periods & not Depo or The Pill for your treatment. I saw that she was wearing a big cross around her neck so I said the the Lord doesn't want you to go to Planned Parenthood, who kills innocent children, for anything. I also mentioned that they were killing off her Race. I asked if she wanted any literature & she said that she didn’t. I said “good bye” & went into Focus....I was upset for I saw the far away look in her eyes.
I asked Connor to do some heavy things for me & he did. I asked Christine to call the agencies on our Food Referral List to see if anything had changed & she said that she will continue to work on the list at home tonight & tomorrow when she comes back with her daughter & her friend. I was happy. I asked Connor to fold some fliers & then to make up some Truth packets & I showed him how to do them & the I left him in the office. He did many which was great. They left at 3:30 pm & we will see Christine tomorrow.
Nicole,our client, came in to help us & I got to talk with her for a few minutes. She’s doing better but her boyfriend isn’t nice to their precious daughter. Martha talked to her about this sad story. I hope that she reported this awful man. She wants to come to help us many times during the week, we’ll see if she comes. I emailed Donna for her to try to reach her if she was able.
Martha was upset for she went to see her daughter & her family with her ex husband in Pennsylvania this past weekend. It was an upsetting weekend, something about Buddha~~~~poor Martha. Linda came at 4 pm to help us & Martha got to talk to her about her weekend experience. There is so much work to do at Focus. At 6:15 pm we had a nice supper & Martha left. I stayed a half an hour later & left t
Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at Focus
After Mass Martha & I went to Focus & immediately we were busy. We barely go the doors to the rooms opened & there was a young man asking for diapers & formula. a special Enfamil formula for his 2 month old child where he his girlfriend & daughter are living at the Cadillac Hotel. He commented that it was dirty. We didn’t have that particular formula so Martha gave him $20 of her own money to purchase it at the Dollar General on Main St.. I was able to reimburse her. What a nice gesture that she did for this man & his daughter Anastasia. She also called a couple of places to see if they could help him but they were unable. She gave him all of our referral sheets from the Material Aid Room. He also needed a can opener so I was able to retrieve one from the drawer, we had two. He needed food too but forgot to get it. While he was at Focus I asked him to move some things around & he did. He was a help to us. He asked for a Bible so I gave him one plus two Rosaries & the pocket Catechism of the Catholic Church & a leaflet on ‘How to make a good Confession’. I asked him if he had found a church & he said that he did. It was Our Lady of the Americas on East Main St.. I asked if he had missed any Masses & he said that he didn’t. He told me that the mother of his child was his wife but Martha though he said ‘girlfriend’ to her so I’m not sure so I hope that they are living without sex. The soul is to precious to be lost. As this was going on Pastor Dave came in with three young men to bring more donations to us. It was marvelous. I asked him if they would pray for this young man& they did. It was beautiful. He said to me that he felt that the Lord told him to come today to Focus. I’m glad that he listened. As this was going on Catherine form Fidelis Care came & I showed her her new residence in the Great Room. It worked out better for her & for us. She had her nice space in the corner of the room. As this was going the doorbell rang & it was Christine & her son Connor, from St. John of Rochester Church, to help us. I was so happy to see them. As this was going on our landlord, Dan, came in & I got to talk to him about some things in the center. Our Oriental Rug, which was hanging outside on the fence was stolen, what did I expect. Thank God that the walls are dry & there was NO mold or mildew in the center....yeah!!!
I went outside to say hello to Chris & Dick, who were praying in front to Planned Parenthood & as we were talking a woman came out of Planned Parenthood with a band aid on her arm....the dreaded Depo Provera shot. I walked with her until I got to Focus & spoke to her abut the shot & the danger to her & an unborn baby. She said that she was getting it for her periods. I said that you need to go to your doctor (she said that she had one) & get better medicine fro your periods & not Depo or The Pill for your treatment. I saw that she was wearing a big cross around her neck so I said the the Lord doesn't want you to go to Planned Parenthood, who kills innocent children, for anything. I also mentioned that they were killing off her Race. I asked if she wanted any literature & she said that she didn’t. I said “good bye” & went into Focus....I was upset for I saw the far away look in her eyes.
I asked Connor to do some heavy things for me & he did. I asked Christine to call the agencies on our Food Referral List to see if anything had changed & she said that she will continue to work on the list at home tonight & tomorrow when she comes back with her daughter & her friend. I was happy. I asked Connor to fold some fliers & then to make up some Truth packets & I showed him how to do them & the I left him in the office. He did many which was great. They left at 3:30 pm & we will see Christine tomorrow.
Nicole,our client, came in to help us & I got to talk with her for a few minutes. She’s doing better but her boyfriend isn’t nice to their precious daughter. Martha talked to her about this sad story. I hope that she reported this awful man. She wants to come to help us many times during the week, we’ll see if she comes. I emailed Donna for her to try to reach her if she was able. We had some girls that really needed us today.
Linda came in at 4 pm to help us & Martha talked to her about her stressful weekend with her daughter & family, in Pennsylvania, who prays to Buddha. Poor Martha.
'Courageous Christians'
Pope Francis takes the Gospel to the street. He does not wait for those in need to approach him; he goes to them, visiting the poor and sick in a spirit of true charity. And he tells us, we have to become “courageous Christians” in order to do this.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014 at Focus
What a change of events today that were irritating today. I woke up early this morning with a truck that made noise for hours & I had pain from my shoulder down my left arm & I received a call form Martha with no message so I was worried that something had happened to her. My toilet didn't flush. I did my pick up of some items from a woman that I knew & she greeted me with saying “I’m glad that you came today otherwise I would have thrown these things away”. Okay I thought & put the things in my car & drove to the bank for Focus. I went to noon Mass & Martha wasn’t there. I asked Fr. A. to bless some rosaries that I received & asked him to pray for me & my family. I told him that I pray for him. I asked a couple of people to pray for Martha as I left the church. I went to the center she wasn’t there either. I was greeted by two women who I helped as I enter Focus. I was going to call the hospitals to see if she was there but I think the Holy Sprit dialed the number to Martha’s & she answered. She said that she was going to come to Focus real soon. I was in confused. I worked in the office & about 20 minutes later she was there....I was happy that she was alive & well. She said that she was called by her friend early this morning saying that she had fallen out of bed & she needed food & Martha called me but didn’t leave a message on the voice mail because she thought that that would wake me. Martha in not of the 21 Century & I told her that it wouldn't have & she said that she would leave a message next time ........thank you Martha!!!!
The doorbell rang & it was clients that needed our assistance. I went in to the kitchenette to get a quick lunch & then I went to greet our client's that Martha was helping. I asked the girls as they were leaving one room to go to the next room saying :you love Jesus:. The first girl said “yes” & I said “great” & when I asked the other girl she said “I used to but I don’t any,ore”. I said “what” !!! Then all of a sudden she said to me “you saved my baby”. I was in shock. I said with my hand up in the air saying that God used me to save your precious baby & you did. She said that her boyfriend was at Planned Parenthood, 2 years ago, with her wanting her to have an abortion & I talked her out of it. She said that he loves their daughter now so much..... She said that he was in the parking lot in the car. I asked her if they were planning to get married & she said that they have been together for 5 years but he’s married in another country. My heart sank. She said that she stays home taking care of her daughter & doesn't do drugs or smokes or drinks but I thought you’re with a married man! So sad... I told her that her soul was in jeopardy of going to hell unless she resolves this mess & gets right with God & asks His forgiveness. I hope that she will listen to me again.
It was just Martha & I today for Christine called me to say that her & her daughter & son would come tomorrow to help us out, instead of today. I said that would be great & I thanked her. We were pleasantly busy & I was happy that things were coming around. I emailed that I need help revamping our Focus brochure & I was happy that I received any replies. Now I know that it will happen soon. Our first Focus Newsletter will be sent out this Tuesday, June 10th. & I’m so excited. Joan, the director of Women’s Care Center, called me to say that St. Joseph’s Community Center on South Ave. refers for abortions at Planned Parenthood & Highland Hospital. How evil, for this place is run by the Sisters of St. Joseph, what a crime. I hope Joan goes forth in stopping this evil against innocent, voiceless children. They will not be your victims!!!!!! I told her that I would help her in any way. Martha & I will see her next Thursday at Harro East, for their banquet. It’s just down the street form Focus. Thank you Lord, for every day is a gift from you.
Life is a gift..................
'Respecting One's Dignity'
St. Francis did not draw lines between himself and society's outcasts. He stepped into their shoes, at times quite literally. This both enabled him to help and enabled people to trust him. Even when it jeopardized his own social status, he showed respect and love for the downtrodden.
Thursday, June 5, 2014 at Focus
When I got to Focus there was Martha already there for she goes out to the front lines from 11 am to 1 pm & then comes into Focus to work. It was busy right away & I knew that Tom was coming for the new Focus brochure repairs & then Job later for the Facebook page & so on. Women were at the front door right away but I knew that there people out on the front lines trying to save precious babies from death before God claimed them. I went to the door to ;et the clients in for assistance. Martha came in with a young lady with a small child in the stroller. She said to me in the office that she just came out of Planned Parenthood & had a Depo Provera shot.....the death shot. I went to the first Material Aid Room, by the front door, to talk with her & to help her with what she needed. I told her about what Planned Parenthood does to little children & they’re doing it right now. She looked surprised. She said that she was there for Birth Control. I asked her if she though abortion was a good thing & she said “no” & then I said that that’s what your doing by getting the Depo shot. I went & got the Truth packet & I put in the plastic bag 3 DVD’s that will teach her. I went to give her the information. Then I asked her if she was Catholic & she said while scrumming “yes, no”. I said “then you are”. I then said “you were Baptized Catholic so you are Catholic & always be even in death for soul has the inedible mark of ‘Catholic’ on it. The Lord started the Catholic Faith & it’s the real truth. I went to the office & got the Catechism of the Catholic Church (thanks Gene) for her & a pamphlet of ‘How to make a good Confession” & gave it to her. I then told her how bad the Depo shot is for mother & baby. She said “thank you” & smiled at me with appreciation. Thank you Lord for this nice woman who wanted the TRUTH & help her to follow it with your graces. Amen. She then went to the other Material Aid Room & I left her alone to shop as the doorbell was ringing. A young man was at the door & I answered it to meet Tom. I apologized to him for I had to do something for another client so I lead him into the office until I quickly returned. I introduced myself to him & started to talked him about the Focus brochure. I gave him the old brochure to look at & the notes for the new one. He said that he could work on it & then email me with it. I said that I wanted bright colors that will hit you in the face & lots of good helpful information in it. Also, I said that I needed a new Logo if he could work on that too. He said “yes, no problem”. He asked when I wanted it & I said “as soon as possible” with a smile on my face. We said “good bye” & I thanked him & he left. I hope & pray that this will work out for Focus. After he left I realized that he wasn’t on my email list so I don’t really know how he knew about my request which he responded quickly with a Resume.....God only knows that I’m not good in business.
Martha was busy & now so was Carol who just came in & she worked so hard for so long. I saw Lynda walking down the hall came in & I said that I didn’t hear the doorbell & she said that she came in the back door which we open in the warmer months. She parked in the back & then came in. We were starting to talk but it didn’t happen for she had to answer the door so many time s to help our moms Marcy came in with her daughter to help us for she called me on Tuesday saying that she wanted to help & she said that Thursday would work out well so I said that I would see her then. Later Barb came in to help & so did Christine with her two grown children & their friends too. It was so hectic but marvelous to behold and it wasn’t over. There was Job at the door so I went to the office with him & went to the computer to work on the new Facebook page for Focus. We were in office when in came Mike V. saying to me that his son had another cash donation Focus but he couldn’t bring into day for he was at work first before coming to the front lines. I said “okay Mike next Thursday” & I smiled at him. Lynda came in the office so I introduced him to her & she said that his brother built her house. The he said “is is still standing”! So funny Mike !
I continued my work with Job sitting next to me at the desk at the computer. It was about 15 later in came Dan J. smiling. I said “Hi Dan, we haven’t seen you in so long (he started a day job) & Martha was talking about you yesterday saying that we haven't seen you in awhile so I new that I would in a short time for that’s Holy Spirit works & here you are! I was cramped in the corner so I didn’t get up but I did later to make a copy for him about Rescue Rochester flier. He said that Martha needed him to fix vacuum cleaner for her & he did. He said that’s why I am here, for he listens t the Holy Spirit too. It was so nice seeing him again. I introduced him to Job & also Mike earlier on.
I had asked Connor, who is Christine's son, to help make up more packets & his friend helped him in the office,. They made up so many Truth packets & I was so happy. I really don’t know what the other volunteers did for they were with Martha & she took control of what she needed then to do. Scott D. came in for a short visit. There were so many people helping & getting assistance at Focus today....thank God !!!! When everyone had left around 5 pm Martha & I did more work & then we had supper. What a day!!!!
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Thursday, June 5, 2014 at Front Lines
This email was sent to me by Mike Warren, of Rescue Rochester, who was out on the Front Lines with his team toady:
Since the OSA National event last summer Rescue Rochester has been increasingly active at the two Planned Parenthood killing centers in the Rochester area. Thursday is a killing day at the downtown central office. We have an outreach there Thursday afternoons to help the Focus Pregnancy center 2 doors down the street.
Today,there were two turn-a-ways at this site while a sidewalk counselor that worked with us was talking. Both times the moms never left the vehicles they came in. Praise God. Even though the escort came to one car window the vehicle still pulled away and for this we are very thankful. What do we do? We just show up, holding signs, pray and when opportunity presents itself plead with moms and dads to change their mind. Consider joining us. Numbers do make a difference, and you might just be instrumental in saving a life.
Saturdays, the Planned Parenthood in Greece has reopened after closing for about 6 weeks. We know that having people on sight praying and speaking for the preborn and their parents does make a difference. Consider joining us at this location.Not only do we speak to moms and dads going to this location, we have been able to share the truth with radically committed pro-aborts that at times stop by to "debate". Their minds are made up but that's ok because we are going after their hearts also. Their minds will catch up as the truth opens their hardened hearts.
'Abstain from Sin'
We must also fast and abstain from vices and sins and from any excess of food and drink, and be Catholics. –St. Francis
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at Focus
I met Martha today at Focus at 1 pm, for she went to Mass at 12:15 pm, at the Pastoral Office, there were 8 people there in the small chapel, including our Lynda who volunteers at Focus.....fantastic. I greeted Martha & then we went to work answering the door & helping those young ladies that were behind it. I got to talk with a couple of women & found out that they weren't going to church on Sundays. A young woman said that she had the birth control rod inserted under her arm so I went to to get her the Truth packet & the brochure that will scare & inform her of the truth about what she had in her arm. She said that she was grateful. I was happy to hear that. I She said that she has three children with a man that she’s been with for 11 years. I asked her why weren't they married & she said because of the drugs. I just looked at her in belief. I said that maybe he’s not the right man for you & she said that I was right. Maybe he’s not good husband material she said back to me. My heart was sad because she was a very nice young lady & I hope & pray that she will do the right thing with this man. Our girls are so important to both Martha & I.
I was expecting that Christine would be at Focus today with her teenage children but they never came so it was just Martha & I all day with no help. Linda couldn't make it today but will be back next Tuesday. Martha did three pregnancy tests & thank God they were all negative. Yesterday Ney did two pregnancy tests & thank God they were negative. They all got a teaching before they left Focus. Tough Love!!!
A woman came in & we got to talk with her about abstinence & she said that she didn't want to lose her soul so she’s behaving now.........thank God!!! We got to talk to all of our many clients that came into Focus today.
D an came in & we got to talk to him for a few minutes. The carpet man cam in to see that results of his past work two weeks ago......splendid work. I had Mile V. come in with his son’s donation & we got to talk for a few minutes. I was upset for he is acting as his doctor & has reduced his Blood Pressure medication in half. He complained of a headache. He asked for prayers & I’d like to give him a ‘kick in the butt’. Later on I emailed Job about the new Focus Facebook about a friend that I clicked onto but didn't know. I didn't like what she put on the Facebook page, do I asked Job to
de-friend her. He did. So much to do but it’s okay.
Martha looked tired so she made supper quickly & we ate & she left. I left abut 45 minutes later & we both went to Holy Hour in different parishes. I went to to St. Jerome’s & about 30 minutes later Fr. Leone came in to the church. I got up & bowed to the Lord of Lords & went over to Father & thanked him for the Baby Shower that St. Jerome's is doing for Focus. He said that it was going well & he was happy to help us. I said to him that we needed his help, for we've seen over 800 people so far, at Focus. I said the the community was very much in need & he nodded. I thanked him again & went back to my pew to spend somemore time with the Lord.
'A New Creation'
The truth is that if you're living in such a way that people notice a difference in you, you're doing something right! Christianity is about becoming a new creation, not a “better version” of your old self.
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at Focus
Martha was going to Mass at St. Jude’s tonight so I went to Mass alone & now I’m at Focus alone for Martha wasn’t there yet. I opened up the rooms for our clients. Then the doorbell rang & I attended to our clients needs. Martha got there at 1:15 pm so I felt better for we are so busy I really don’t like it when there is just one person, it could be overwhelming. It was 1:30 pm & in came Linda which was great. We went into the office to talk for a few minutes & that’s all is was for the doorbell kept on ringing. Martha was in the Rose Room doing a pregnancy test. This week there was 7 pregnancy tests done. This takes time for we want to spent time with the client to teach & to help her if she’s pregnant or not.
I was in & out of the office most of the afternoon but I do greet the clients & see what they need, too. Our Referrals (general, food & shelters) go out quickly what makes me happy. The need in our community is great................
I looked down the hall & I saw Lynda holing a baby in her arms, it was so cute. She interacts with the clients so well. Martha interacts with the clients needs too. It all works. Thank you Lord!!!!
'Always in Pursuit'
Love may be patient but love doesn't just sit & wait. Love pursues. How overwhelming to realize that God (Love) is always in pursuit of us.
Thursday, June 12, 2014 at Focus
I arrived at Focus at 1 pm & Martha had been out on the front lines this morning alone with the other people on the team in trying to save lives in front of Planned Parenthood. In came Carol who was at the front door as I arrived. I got help with the donation bags in the back seat of my car. Carol & I were so busy right away then the doorbell rang & I opened the doorbell rang & I went to the door & let a young woman holding a young child who was smiling. She came in & asked for a pregnancy test, I lead her to the Rose Room. I asked Carol to assist me with the baby while the mom went into the bathroom for a specimen. The young child was very good & didn’t cry. I thanked Carl & off she went to do other things. As we were waiting for the results of the pregnancy test I saw that she had more children & a boyfriend. She said that he was her husband but wanted a divorce. I asked her why & she said “because he has beaten me”. This changes everything. We must protect both mother & her children. I looked down at the pregnancy test & saw that it was positive. She said that she had an apartment but needed a Deposit of some money. I knew that I couldn’t provide that amount so my mind went around & around to think of an agency that could help her. Thank God she wasn’t abortion minded which I was so happy about. I gave her a name of a woman that she could talk to about this abuse & she said “thank you” & I gave her a Truth packet & some DVD’s & a new Bible & said that she could come back anytime & gave her my cell number to call if she needed me anytime. She said “thank you “ & then left. Martha was now in the center so I asked her what she thought & she said for me to call the Diocese & I did. I was given an Emergency Help phone number & I called. I spoke to a woman & told her everything & she said that id she sends a copy of the police report she can apply for her to receive the deposit. I told her that our client did not report it to the police because it was her husband. She said that she really couldn't help her then. I said “I am trying to prevent this mother & her children from possibly being hurt or killed by this man & it’s only money that she needs to get away & be safe”. There was a second of silence & she then said for me to call her with her private phone number & she gave me her name & number for she wanted to speak with her. I said “thank you so much” & hung up & called our client who was grateful for this assistance. I walked out of the office relieved.
I was waiting for Job to come to assist me with the newest projects that he’s doing for Focus. He called me saying that he was unable to come today for his child was sick & he had to pick him up & take him home & he’ll see me next week. We had Tamera came in with her son who she left with us for a couple of hours to help us, he was fantastic. He was happy to be there with us & he smiled a lot. Martha & I wanted to go to Our Lady of Victory Mass at 5pm for the Women’s Care Center for their banquet was tonight t the Haro’s East which is up the street. I was unable to attend the Mass but Martha went for I had to stay with Barb to assist the people that were still coming in to the center. What a very busy day!!!
The banquet was so nice & I got to see all the people that I know & love in the pro life movement.....it was wonderful!!!
The speaker Kathy was good, for she inspired the movie, Gimme Shelter. She's from Rochester. There are really not enough homes for unwed mothers & people in need here, so we have to work on that.
'All Things Are Possible'
Praise is creating space in your life for God to do what you are hoping and dreaming He will do. Always remember: With God, nothing is impossible.
June, 17, 2014 at Focus
Martha & I came to center & there were clients at the door waiting for us. One woman was in the wheelchair, so I knew that was Shirley, & a young girl with a baby in the stroller. I backed in to the parking space & got out & opened up the door to the center. I said “hi Shirley” & she said “you remembered my name”. I said “yes why would I forget it”. She got out of her wheelchair & off she went into the rooms once I opened them up. I started to talk to the young girl for she hadn't been to Focus before & she got what she needed for herself & young child. I was pleased that we could help her. I invited her back. Before I entered Focus I saw that Christine M. was back & she was out on the sidewalk praying but I couldn’t get outside to talk with her today. Kathy C. came & went outside to be with her to pray & to witness. I felt better.
Martha & I tried to settle in but the doorbell just kept on ringing. There is so much for me to do in the office now a days & I try to help Martha with the many clients that come through our door. I like to meet them & talk with them to see if they need any referrals or whatever else is going on in their lives. We have Food, Shelter, other Pregnancy Centers & Baby Formula suppliers & misc. Referral Lists, in the first Material Aid Room. There are getting updated. I had asked Carol, who comes on Thursdays to help us, to call the Food Pantry List to see if the information is correct. Christine , who was working on it, hasn’t been back & I need an updated list for our clients in need. Martha brought in $100 of food that she bought for Focus & at the end of the day it was mostly gone, with each client getting 8 items, a piece. We need more Food for Focus....
I was in the office when our client Infiniti came through the door all excited. She said that she was in a video which went viral about a bus driver calling the police yesterday evening when it was raining to get a young girl with two small children & a stroller off the bus because she gave away her bus pass to another person. It was her fist time on the bus & she didn’t know that she couldn’t do that. Check out: http://www.13wham.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/mother-removed-rts-bus-13084.shtml. I saw Infiniti with her son, that was almost aborted, but thank God wasn’t thank God. She has given her testimony at Focus. It was a graphic sign that caught her eye when she was with her mother that wanted her to have the abortion. She ran out of Planned Parenthood & went to her Grandmother’s house until she was 24 week pregnant & then went home to her mother. She loves her son & is so happy that he is in the word & so are we.... Her & her son come to Focus about once a month & we are so happy to see them both. She also aids young girls in her church to do the right thing in their pregnancies.
I looked up in the room where both Martha & I were working & I saw Paul. Martha looked over & screamed “Paul”!!! He stayed with us for a long time today helping us out. It was good to see Lynda come in at 4 pm & Linda came in at 4:10 today. We are grateful for their assistance. I got to talk with Lynda for a few minutes & then she got busy working. Sometimes we can’t catch a breath but it all works out.
We had our second Focus Board Meeting this year & everyone came, except Lou Ann, for she was out of town. It went from 6 pm to 7 pm & it went very well. Much to discuss.
'Say Yes to God's Will'
Praise and thank God that He sees more in us than we see in ourselves. All God needs to make a masterpiece in you is your consent.
Wednesday, June, 18, at Focus
Martha & I prayed today to get some help for we didn’t have any volunteers scheduled today. It was about 30 minutes later that the doorbell rang & there were two girls & one child at the door. I greeted them & told then about the two Material Aid Rooms. As time went on one of the girls said that she has volunteered at Focus for Community Service points & asked to have more time to complete her coverage. I said “fine when can you help out”. She said “today”. I said that it might be difficult with the young child in the stroller & she said that she will take the baby home & come back. I asked if she had someone to watch the little one & she said “yes that she did”. I was relived. She & her girlfriend came back & helped us out for a couple of hours. Thank you Lord for hearing Martha & my prayer.
A young lady came for things for her child & I noticed that she was folding the clothes in the bins & putting them neatly away. I stopped in the hall & said "thank you so much for helping us out". She smiled back at me & said "no problem". When she stood up I noticed that her very large breast were hanging out so I suggested, with love, that she finds a nice shirt for herself that will cover her up. Modestly is so important even in the summer. I noticed as I walked by the room that she had found a nice black shirt that covered her up & looked good on her. I asked for the shirt she was wearing & she gave it to me without hesitation. I threw it out later. She left with a smile on her face & her self esteem raised.
I called the client that came in for a pregnancy test last week & was scheduled for a Ultrasound appointment today. I called her & she said that her baby was to small to see & that she will have another ultrasound in two weeks. She also said that Michelle, from Catholic Family Center, was going with her to the apartment that she needs a deposit. She is in good hands. I will keep in touch with her.
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'Stay Focused On God '
Have nothing to do with anyone who would stand in your way and would seek to turn you aside from fulfilling the vows which you have made to the Most High and from living in that perfection to which the Spirit of the Lord has called you.
-St. Clare of Assisi
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Thursday, June 19, at Focus
Our last Mass with Fr. Edison
What a busy day!!! When I got to Focus I saw that the parking lot was taped off because it was being tarred. It was hard for me to see. I parked in the back parking lot. I put out the A-Frame sign & walked up & down the sidewalk trying to tell people that we were open & to park in the back. I was worried that Carol had seen this & left, so I went in to Focus, & called her. She said that she was on her way & she will park in the back. I was relieved. Rescue Rochester, Jerry & Mike came & I said “hello” to them as they walked up the sidewalk to the front lines in front of Planned Parenthood. About 1:15 pm Rob came & she parked on the side street. He went into Focus to get the literature box & to get the mega phone & went out to the front lines. Cathy came in to get more Silent No More....Post Abortion literature to take outside with her. Martha called & said that she will be there around 2 pm for she had to pick up Eleanor. Okay!!! I was expecting Todd, who is working on the Focus website & the Facebook page, & Tom who is working on the new Focus brochure, & was bring his photographer with him for pictures for the brochure. None of this happened. I called Tom & he said that he had to work late but since we were on the phone we came up with an answer to the new Logo for the brochure. Instead of the baby with the umbilical cord we opted for a picture of a family in the O of Focus. I was happy & I think that he agreed. He will come Tuesday with the photographer. I emailed Job & he had a client & he couldn’t get away so he will come Tuesday to help me with the Website & Facebook page. Tuesday should be very busy.
I received a phone call from Sister Clare, at St. Jerome’s Church, in East Rochester & she told me that they were bringing all the donations that they received last weekend at the Masses, to Focus, next Wednesday. This was great news!!!
Thank God that Martha & Eleanor & Paul & Carol were here working busily to get the Mass & Banquet ready for tonight. I signed the Good Bye card for Fr. Edison & had another card for the people who were coming to the Mass, to sign. There were 33 people at the Mass & Banquet & it was such a blessing. Thank you Fr. Edison for a year of Masses at Focus . We wish you the best as Pastor, in three Parishes, in Wolcott , NY.. God bless you & your Priestly Ministry!!!!
'Love Transforms Us'
Despite our loneliness, our powerlessness, our brokenness, something drives us and refuses to die. We are a hunger for love. And when at last that love comes and finds us, picks us up and holds us close, it transforms us. We become love for others
Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at Focus
We had a busy day with lots to do with the office work & assisting the clients. Job came in & he & I worked on the Facebook page & the Focus website which will have additional information, on it, soon. Job was very helpful & he’ll be back next Tuesday to help me with more on the website. Tom didn’t come today about the updating the Focus brochure but he will come with his photographer to take some pictures for the brochure another day this week....should be great!!
Lindaa came in to help us & she did a lot. There is so much to do, but through the grace of God, it gets done sooner or later.
'Universal Truth'
God wants to rescue you out of your predicament more than you want out of that predicament. God wants to demonstrate His justice, love, and mercy because that is who He is.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at Focus
When Martha & I got to Focus there were three adults & five children waiting for us. I went into the center & opened up the doors to each room. I instructed them that there were two rooms for them to go into to received what they needed. It get a little hairy at time watching the kids & all. At one point I was going to the refrigerator & almost tripped over a young child sitting, on the floor, by the refrigerator door eating animal crackers in a bowl that Martha gave her. The little child looked up at me & I looked down at her being careful not to step on her. It’s chaotic at time but we manage. I went back into the office to continue my safe work.
It was 1:15 pm when Lynda came in to the center to help us out & a few minutes later Connor came in to do the same. I put him to work on setting up the first installment, of the Truth packets, that we hand out at Focus & out on the front lines. Then I asked if he would put the flexible babies into bags to go into the Truth packets. They are a great witness & save lives too. He’s been a wonderful help at Focus. Being a young man he can do things that us ladies can’t do. Lynda & I talked for a few minutes & then the doorbell just kept on ringing so I wasn’t able to talk with her for a long time about anything today. She’ll be away for two weeks for she’s visiting her family in California....we’ll miss ya Lynda.
I did a pregnancy test today & it was negative. This young lady & I had a nice long talk about abstinence & self respect. She is a mother of two children & wasn’t abortion minded.....thank God.
'Forgiveness is Healing'
No single act can relieve the corrosive aftereffects of anger more than an honest act of forgiveness. To be sure, forgiving is hard, especially when the offender isn't sorry. Only one thing is harder: not forgiving.
Thursday, June 26, 2014 at Focus
I received an email form Tom yesterday sating that he & the photographer will be at Focus today at 1 pm. When I got to the parking lot in front of the center there they were waiting for me. It was 1 pm on the dot. I tried to get there about 12:45 but was unable. Al was good though. I greeted Tom & he introduced me to Katie the photographer. Then we went in & so did about 7 people behind us with their children. They went in to the first Material Aid Room & I lead Tom & Katie up the hall showing them the rooms as I opened them up. Carol came about 5 minutes later which I was happy about. Katie took pictures of each room. When we got back to the first Material Aid Room there were so many adults & children in the room. I asked permission of the parents & the one grandfather if we could take their pictures in the room & they said okay but the woman said that her & her baby in the stroller will wait in the hallway but her boys could be in the picture. After she took the picture I asked if they could go to the other Material Aid Room so she could just take the picture of the room with no one in it. Then she asked if she could take pictures of the children all six of them outside & all they stood by the bush near the door & smiled. I think there were all boys there. The Katie took three picture of me standing in the corner of the building, I guess the light was right. Tom said that the brochure should be ready in a week.....can’t wait. We all said “good bye & I added a thank you” & they left.
'Routine Prayer Time'
A regular prayer time is essential to our spiritual growth. Unless we build it into our schedule, prayer can become an afterthought, something that is nice to have instead of a soul-feeding essential. We owe it to ourselves and God to make the time for prayer.
Tuesday, June 31, 2014 at Focus
Before I went in to the center I went over to say “hi” to two pro lifers that were standing & praying in front of Planned Parenthood. The one person was in the buffer zone & the other person wasn't. I said that we won in the Buffer Zone case in Massachusetts. I said that I though that it was only in Ms.. The one person said “no we won in all cities”. I said (but I was thinking that only Ms. won) “oh, that’s great”. I left a about a minute later to go into Focus to start my work there. I went to my car to get some things out & I went into the grocery store next to Focus & asked the men to help me bring the donation bags into the center. Two men helped & I was grateful. I talked with Martha as we were going back & forth in the center opening the rooms up & answering the door. It was about 30 minutes later that the doorbell rang & Martha went to the door but I had gotten up from my office chair to see who was at the door. I noticed that it was the man who was out on the sidewalk praying. I thought that he was needing more truth packets or was giving us a donation, which he has done in the past. I walked up to the door & said “hi” to him. Then he hit me with a shocking remark saying :the police were called & they all were there on the sidewalk but I have to leave. I said that I would go out to give the pro lifer some support. I went tot get my cell phone, keys & sunglasses & I told Martha where I was going & left. When I got to the sidewalk & spoke to the pro lifer & I saw the police officer in the parking lot of Planned Parenthood. I asked what had happened. She said that the police were called because she was in the buffer zone. I asked her what she had said to the officer. She said, I told him that “this is infringing on my Constitutional rights”. She left a few minutes later so I knew that she wasn't going to be arrested. I told her that I would stay to speak to the officer. I saw, through the bushes, that he had papers in his hands & it probably was the 2002 Injunction.....poor officer. It’s 26 pages long. A few minutes later I saw that he was walking out to the sidewalk. As he was approaching the sidewalk I said to him ”can I speak to you officer”? He said “yes” & he walked over to where I was standing. We talked about the situation & he said that he called his Supervisor to see what the ruling in Ms. met here in Rochester. I instructed him what Planned Parenthood does to little babies & their mothers. I told him that I will be at the Focus Pregnancy Center & I showed him where we were located so when he finds out I’d appreciate it if he comes by to tell me. He said that he would. I walked back to the center.
About 30 minutes later I went back to the front lines to see that the police officer wasn't there so I went back into the center. Jerry came by on his bike earlier & said that he was going to go to pray in front of Planned Parenthood but when I went out to see if the officer was there Jerry wasn't there either. I was expecting Rob & Kathy, out on the sidewalk, but they didn't some to the front lines today..........I’m frustrated.
About 10 later I saw that there was a police car parked across the street from our building so I went out to see if it was the offices I had spoken with earlier but it was a woman. I told her what had happened & she emailed the officer & said that he will come by soon. She asked me about what we do at the center & I told her what we offer for ‘free’. I said ‘thank you” & walked back in the center. It was later on that the officer came by & he said that he didn't have an answer for me yet. I asked him if I should notify my attorney & he said that that would be a good idea. We talked a few more minutes & he left after he shook my hand. I wish that I got his name he was a very nice police officer.
I went to the office & looked up our attorney’s phone number & called her officer. When she got on the phone I spoke to her about the situation out on the front lines. She told me that it was only in Ms. that the Supreme Court decision affected so we have to remain in the same position as always. We also talked about changing the Injunction here in Rochester where she said that we are Constitutional but Mississippi’s buffer zone wasn't. In 1999 I went to the Federal Court, in Buffalo, & the Judge placed us 80 feet away so we were standing across the street for 21/2 years until we won the appeal in 2002. The Circuit Court stated that we were to far away to protest, so they moved us back on the sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood, stating that the buffer zone was now 15 feet at each entrance. I emailed all the people, that are out on the front lines, to say that all remains the same here in Rochester. All don’t agree so if anyone wants to cross over into the buffer zone, it’s up to them, not me. I pray that we can get closer on the sidewalk so that we can speak to the people with our human voices & not have to use mega phones anymore. We have the Truth & we want to give it to them. We want to save & change lives that Planned Parenthood destroys.
Martha & I were very busy today & we had no volunteers. Linda, our usual volunteer, came by to drop off some donations & she had to leave, so we were alone all day. Through the grace of God, we did okay.
'Spiritual Childhood'
The master is more than our master; He is our Father. Our vocation is to be children. We realize this through the gift of God's Son. The Father loves us as He loves Him. The key to sanctity is spiritual childhood.
Wednesday, July 1, 2014 at Focus
I called one of our pregnant clients & talked with her for a few minutes then said “would you like to have an ultrasound”. She replied quickly “yes”. I told her that I will call Embracing Options & call her back. I did. The appointment was made for next Wednesday at 1 pm. She was so happy to hear this good news. I told her where His Branches was located & she said that she lived not very far away. I was thrilled that this worked out very well. I called more clients but were unable to reach them. The phone situation is so frustrating......
It was Martha, Carol & I today. We kept Carol very busy & she is a very good worker & a lot gets done when she’s there. Carol was in the office when she told me that she will be away for most of the summer. I was happy for her but sad for us, at Focus. She is even going to Europe this year, for two weeks. I am appreciative of all of our great volunteers that have blessed us for so many years. We are now 9 years old & next year, God willing, we will be having a big party to celebrate our 10 years, on University Ave., in saving lives & severing our community.
'A Living Body'
The Church is not a charitable, cultural or political association, but a living Body, that walks and acts in history. And this Body has a head, Jesus, who guides, nourishes and supports it. –Pope Francis
Thursday, July 3, 2014 at Focus
When I arrived at Focus, Martha & Tom were out on the sidewalk & it was raining. Martha had a poncho on. I got in the center & noticed that the ceiling in the All Purpose Room was still not done. It will take time to fix this problem....I will wait. Water, water & more water problems in time it will all be fixed & I will be so happy. I went to the front door & I saw Jerry walk into the parking lot. I stuck my head out to say “hi” & to tell him that Rob was planning to come to be with him this afternoon. He smiled. Mike from Rescue Rochester was away. Rob got to the sidewalk at 1:30 & Kathy joined him.
Martha & I were busy & we had no volunteers today because Carol came yesterday instead, so you just do what you have to do to assist those who ring our doorbell. Kathy came in a couple of times to get a drink & to sit down. She said that her brother Paul was in Nevada & was on vacation......good for you Paul for you have been a caregiver for years & now it’s your time to have some fun. He’s going to see the sights. When he comes back he’ll tell us all about his trip. Be safe Paul.
Thursday is always a difficult day for me because Planned Parenthood murders little precious babies, who are people, who God created.
Later on Rob came in & we all had supper & then Martha & I went to the Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Church with Bishop Matano celebrating. When we got there we saw so many people that we knew. It was fantastic!!! After the Mass I got to greet the Bishop & to tell him “thank you very much for being our Bishop”. It was such a blessing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PLEASE GO TO NEXT PAGE. NUMBER 25. THANK YOU!!!