Urgent Prayer Request for Daisy the Cat

From Mike:

We've adopted Daisy from an animal shelter last Friday evening. We knew that she was underweight (didn't realize how severely so) and was under the belief that it due to stress as she had been thru 8 adoptions in a little over a month. She has not been eating or drinking much at all over this last weekend, and was taken to a PetSmart vet this afternoon (we didn't know what else to do). They've done extensive bloodwork but have referred us to an emergency vet for IV fluids and xrays and said that she is jaundiced and may have Fatty Liver Disorder due to her extreme weight loss (most everything else ruled out). We've also received a complete history on her from the animal shelter and a little over a month ago this beautiful being weighed 12lbs and now is down to just over 4lbs. She is such a gentle, wonderful being and I pray that somehow she can be healed and recover to live a long life. She's only been with us for a few days but she has really touched our hearts.

Thank you,

Prayer Request for All Pets in Animal Shelters and Children in Foster Care

I guess many of you have seen this latest article: 'Miracle Dog' Survives Gas Chamber.

It is a bittersweet story. Poor dog! But it has a happy ending for him.

As we visit the Humane Society my husband and I are very sad to see how many dogs are in the shelter because their owners have turned them in for what ever reason. They look at us through the fence as if to say "please take me home". Most of them are pitbull mixes. I wish we could adopt them all.

Please, please, remember to pray for these animals. They all deserve a good home. While you are at it and more importantly, PLEASE pray for all the children in the foster care system. God knows they need His care and protection more than the animals do.

Urgent Prayer Request for Missing Pet Cats

From Annette:

Our two cats (ages 8 and 2) are missing. We recently moved into a home (about an hour away from our last home). As we were transferring our cats from our vehicle, their carrier came apart and they fell out of the bottom. They were so scared they ran away in a panic and we haven't seen them in four days. I am worried that they will not know where to find us. Please pray that they return to us. My heart is broken.

Prayer Request for Sophie the Cat

From Sabra:

Please pray for Sophie the cat.

She is an indoor cat and somehow got out yesterday.

Pray for her protection and that she would find her way home.

Thank you and God Bless you,

Prayer Request

From me (Esther): Can you please pray that God will send me the right dog. I know no dog will replace my Coco. But I would like one that will love us as much as Coco loved all of us. Mahalo!

Urgent Prayer Request - Willow the Dog

From Erik:

This past week, we brought our 3 year old lab mix, Willow to our vet to remove a tooth. Willow is a rescue and has been with us just a little over a year - as such we don't always know her issues right away since there was no history to go on. Following the procedure, willow developed kidney damage due to a bad drug reaction and needed some time in the hospital. She was released to us yesterday having shown some improvement in her kidney function, but today's test showed a slight increase in her values. We are in a holding pattern right now, waiting to see if the treatments have helped: that she stops wetting in her sleep and her kidney values improve. Willow can use all the prayers she can get at this point. We miss her exciteable spirit and her boundless energy.
With deepest gratitude

Prayer Request for Holly the Dog

From the comment section:

My dod holly got hit by car and ran away we have no idea where she i please sned your prayers to my beautiful holly

novena & litany St. Martin De Porres - start today feast is Nov. 3

Picture source

Shared by Mary Jane. Sorry, this should have been started yesterday but if you do two today or go until November 4th, it can still be prayed as a novena.

Spent part of his youth with a surgeon-barber from whom he learned some medicine and care of the sick; known for his tender care of the sick and for his spectacular cures. Established an orphanage and children's hospital for the poor children of the slums. Set up a shelter for the stray cats and dogs and nursed them back to health. Lived in self-imposed austerity, never ate meat, fasted continuously, and spent much time in prayer and meditation. Great devotion to the Eucharist.


Start today, feast is November 3

Saint Martin de Porres,
your concern and charity embraced
not only your needy brethren,
but also the animals of the field.
You are a splendid example of charity;
we thank and praise you.
From above,
hear the requests of your needy brethern.

(Mention your request here...)

By modelling our lives after yours,
and imitating your virtues,
may we live content knowing that
God has looked favourably upon us.
Because this is so,
we can accept our burdens
with strength and courage
in order to follow
in the footsteps of our Lord
and the Blessed Mother.

May we reach the Kingdom of Heaven
through the intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Amen.

The Litany of St. Martin de Porres

Lord, have mercy,
Christ have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy. Christ, here us.
Christ, graciously hear us,
God the Father of Heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Ghost,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God,
have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary,
Pray for us.
St. Martin, ever in the presence of God,
Pray for us.
St. Martin, faithful servant of Christ, etc.
St. Martin, lover of the Holy Eucharist,
St. Martin, devoted to our Blessed Mother,
St. Martin, spiritual patron of Americans,
St. Martin, raised from the depths to a heavenly mansion,
St. Martin, honored son of Saint Dominic,
St. Martin, lover of the Most Holy Rosary,
St. Martin, apostle of mercy,
St. Martin, winged minister of charity,
St. Martin, miraculously conveyed to far-distant lands,
St. Martin, freed from the barriers of time and space,
St. Martin, seeking the conversion of sinners,
St. Martin, protector of the tempted and repentant,
St. Martin, helper of souls in doubt and darkness,
St. Martin, compassionate to the sorrowful and afflicted,
St. Martin, consoler of the discouraged and unfortunate,
St. Martin, peacemaker in all discords,
St. Martin, touched by all suffering,
St. Martin, comforter of the sick and dying,
St. Martin, angel to hospitals and prisons,
St. Martin, worker of miraculous cures,
St. Martin, guardian of the homeless child,
St. Martin, humbly hiding God-given powers,
St. Martin, devoted to holy poverty,
St. Martin, model of obedience,
St. Martin, lover of heroic penance,
St. Martin, strong in self-denial,
St. Martin, performing menial tasks with holy ardor,
St. Martin, gifted with prophecy,
St. Martin, symbol of interracial brotherhood,

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, Saint Martin,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray.
O God, the exalter of the humble, Who didst make Saint Martin, Thy confessor, to enter the heavenly Kingdom, grant through his merits and intercession that we may so follow the example of his humility on earth as to deserve to be exalted with him in Heaven, through Christ Our Lord. R. Amen.

Urgent Prayer Request for Fox the Cat

From Catherine:

Please pray for our 15-year-old orange tabby, Fox. He has been nauseated, eating little, and losing weight this month. He has a mass on his pancreas that seems benign, but may nonetheless be causing him problems. For a while now we've been treating him for inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis in his knees. His other test results are exceptionally good. We would love for him to get better and come home and live with us for a lot longer. But most of all we ask God for wisdom for his veterinarians and for us in making the right decisions for our beloved boy. Thank you for this blog and God bless you.

Urgent Prayer Request - Kobe the Dog

From the comment section:

Please say a little prayer for our beautiful dog Kobe, who is having a tumor and his spleen removed tomorrow morning. Pray this is not cancer. He is such a happy, loving dog - truly our family's best friend.
Thank you and God Bless you all

For Owners Mourning the Loss of a Pet - Book Recommendation

Our good friend Lou Ann, kind and loving soul that she has, wants us to know about the following book.

Franciscan Friar Jack Wintz has written a book in two editions, one for dog owners, one for cat owners, "I Will See You in Heaven".
I saw it offered, Esther, at the Monastery Greetings website:
www.monasterygreetings.com

Perhaps you may already know of it??

The Monastery Greetings website is a lovely one if you're not familiar, we have purchased lovely religious art calendars from them, they have a most delightful and caring staff.

Message from Joe D - Kimmy the Dog

First of all my apologies for writing "cat" instead of "dog". Kimmy was a dog and I knew that. I don't know why I typed cat instead. But it has been corrected on the original post.

Joe left the following comment there:

Update on Kimmy B. that passed away on 10/18/2011. I would like to share with other

pet owner's who are nursing their sick and dying pet on how I handled my heartbreaking situation. First I wish to thank everyone who sent me their prays and support at this most difficult time of my life.I always knew that when the time came it would hurt but I never would had guess it would hurt as much as it does. Kimmy would had been 15 yrs old this coming Christmas but her cancer prevented her from seeing it.I spent a lot of time with her never leaving her alone. Kimmy loved riding in the car so I spent afternoons and nights riding around the neighborhood with her to make her happy. I always told people that I could never have the heart to put her to sleep but when I saw how she was suffering I guess God sends an angel that takes you by the hand and helps you do what you have to do. It's true because out of nowhere I asked the Vet can we put her down in the car and he said yes .There were only two things Kimmy loved the most and that was sitting in my car and being with me.She feared pet hospitals the most and I didn't want to take her inside one for the last time.This idea came right out of the sky and I was so fortunate that my Vet said yes without hesitation. One of my close friends Tina accompany me that day and witness everything. at the end she cried and said how beautiful it was because before Kimmy was put to sleep she turned and kissed me as to say thank you.I was crying so much I didn't remember till she refreshed my mind. I had to wait till today a week later to have her cremated. Her body was sent to Regency Pet Cemetery which is located on Long Island. I wanted to be present when she was cremated. They actually have a room set up where you view your loved one for the last time. Just like a wake .We said a few prays blessed her with holy water and oil and said our goodbyes . They have you walk down the path to where the cremation is performed they take her and place her where she has to be place.And they cremate her. You come back in a few hrs. and they have her ashes ready for you to take home. I have to say I felt good after this. It gives you some more closure.I felt I treated her the same way as if she was my own daughter. When I die I will request her ashes to be buried with me. This is how I handled my heartbreaking situation. She went in class. I hope by me sharing how I dealt with Kimmy dying this last week and how I handled her remains it would teach and educate those who would have to face and deal with what I did what services are available for their pets. I still cry and miss her deeply but knowing I did the best for her lightens my pain and suffering a little. God Bless.

Urgent Prayer Request for Kenji the Dog

Comment left by Toni:

Please help pray for our dog, Kenji. He will undergo bloodtests this Thu and must need to be operated on. Appreciate your kindness. Praying for all sick animals.

Prayer Request for Little Phoebe the Kitten

I was reading one of the blogs I read regularly and found this post about a very sick little kitten. Please keep her in your prayers.

Prayer Request for Calvin the Cat

From Sara:

Please pray for my lost cat Calvin that he comes home safely. He has been missing for a while and I'm so sad and scared! If you live in the denver area could you keep a look out for him or tell others you know who live in the denver area to look out for him? He is a black and brown tabby with swirls on the side that form a kettle shape in the center. Thank you God bless!

Update on Kia and KC the Cats

From Dianne: thank you for who are praying for Kia and continue too,
after it seemed like forever she finally decided it was time to come out
of the little car carrier, now she is staying in the big dog crate, she is doing well and is feeling so much better. but now she is hissing and scaring the other kitty that has being in the crate too long before her.
So please cont. to pray for Kia and KC. so they will be able to work it.
KC is another kitty that was left by the same neighbor that left Kia
I tried also to take care of her. But she too was very very sick, and I was not able to keep her. So I was able to call my friend Diana( god bless her) she took her to the vet and helped her and also saved her life.
took her home and now she is a healthy happy cat.I do miss them both and sad also. please keep them both in your prayers. so they can become friends again, Thank you so very very much for all your prayers.
May god bless all our sick and lossed animals may he keep his loving arms around them all. keeping them warm in safe. God bless you all

Prayer Request for Mellow the Cat

From a comment left by his owner:

We just brought our black cat named Mellow home from the shelter. He escaped out of our fenced in yard today. I am afraid for him and feel awful for letting him out of the house so soon:( Please pray that Mellow finds his way back to us soon! Thank you!

A Prayer Request for Joe D, Kimmy the Dog's Owner

Joe D left the following comment for Tara and it was so touching. Please keep him in your prayers as he suffers the loss of his beloved pet.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know what you are going thru. On 10/18/11 I also had to put my dog dowm.She was the sweetest little girl. She would have been 15 yrs old this coming Christmas.Her nane was Kimmy.I loved her so much . She was always by my side like a butterfly. I can't stop crying . I never cried so much in my whole life.I took her everywhere. She love the car and at her last few days that's is the only place she was comfortable. She had terminal Cancer.I also feel bad being a religious Catholic I question if there is heaven for dogs.I pray that God does reunite us with our pets when we move on.

Prayer Request for Kitty the Cat

From Robyn:

Hello. I found your blog as I was looking for as many prayers for lost animals, that I could find. My beloved cat, Kitty, has been missing since Sunday October 16th. We are devastated that she has not returned. We have been looking day and night, put up flyers, went door-to-door, and my heart is breaking for our beautiful Kitty. We rescued her and we nursed her to health. I am asking for your prayers that Kitty will return home safe (or that she is safe, warm, well-fed, and away from danger). My heart is breaking and we could use all the prayers, for Kitty, that those are willing to offer. Thank you for your website. You have provided comfort during such a difficult time. God Bless.
Sincerely,

Good News - Weezel the Cat

From Jane:

I’m so sorry that I never let you know that Weezel survived his hospital experience. We thank you for your prayers, for they were surely heard and answered.

God Bless~

The Creation

Dedicated to dog lovers, especially those who have lost your beloved dog.

The following was emailed to me by my friend Taylor after I told her that Coco died.

When God had made the earth and sky the flowers and the trees, He then made all the animals the fish, the birds and bees. And when at last He'd finished not one was quite the same. He said, "I'll walk this world of mine and give each one a name." And so He traveled far and wide and everywhere He went, a little creature followed Him until it's strength was spent. When all were named upon the earth and in the sky and sea, the little creature said, "Dear Lord, there's not one left for me." Kindly the Father said to him, "I've left you to the end. I've turned my own name back to front and called you dog, My friend."

Sad News - Moses the Dog

From Tara:

On 10/18/11, my dog was put down. I was searching the internet for pet prayers when I came across your blog. I would love it if you posted my prayer request for me and my dog. His name was Moses and he was 14 years old. A good old age for a dog, but his health had gone downhill so much, he could hardly stand on his own anymore. I know what me and my family did was the right thing, but I miss my sweet boy terribly. Not to mention, I made a huge mistake of reading why people thought animals didn't go to Heaven. I honestly believe that Moses did go to Heaven and that he'll be waiting for me there, but to my shame, I sometimes still have doubt. Any prayers for Moses and I would bring me great comfort and would be a huge help. Thank you so much.

Please keep Tara in your prayers as she suffers the loss of her beloved Moses.

Good News - Maddox the Cat

From Kathleen: You can add Maddox to the list of answered prayers! Not only did he start to get better the morning after my prayer request but he is completely better now. The vet called with blood test results and said that he didn't have pancreitis or IBD or any other digestive disorder. Since he is eating and pooping regularly he didn't have a blockage. She has no idea what caused him to be sick and whether the antibiotics helped him to get better. I can't help but think it was the prayers! Thank you all!

Updated Prayer Request for Goober the Dog

From Sharon:

I am asking for more prayers for our little lost dog Goober. It has been more than a month now and I had just about given up hope. Yesterday (Wednesday) my husband received a call from a woman who said she saw him last Friday on a desolate bike path that crosses a country road two miles from our house at 9:30 at night. She tried to catch him but he ran down the path into the dark. She didn't see our flyers until yesterday when she called us. Who knows if it was him or if it was, where he is now after 5 days. The bike path is in a forrest preserve with coyotes and I am terrified for him if he is really out there. We posted more signs in the area and we are praying for a miracle. I miss him so much and cry for him all the time. Please pray for us. My heart is broken. Your prayer mean more than you will ever know. Thank you so much.

Updated Prayer Request for Jundi the Cat

"Jundi"

From Brittany:

It's almost been a month since I've heard anything about my lost cat Jundi (she's been lost for 3 months in another state). I was wondering if people could say another prayer for her safe return? Both times I've posted on your site, people have called me to report that they have seen her within days! It means so much to have a group of people who care. I will be praying for all of your pets! Thank you.

Sincerely,

Urgent Prayer Request - Sam the Puppy

From Nelly:

Please help me pray for our puppy, Sam - a 6 month old Japanese spitz. She got almost killed by our neighbor's car and is under observation right now.I know she's in pain. I hope she survives. Thank you so much

My Dog Coco

Hi Friends:

My little dog Coco died about an hour ago. Thank you all for praying for here when she needed it. She collapsed on Sunday with a seizure but I thought it was because I had run out of her heart meds. I thought she would get better but she got worse.

Prayer Request for Hattie the Cat

From Natalie:

Please pray that my cat Hattie will return home safely.



Thank you.

Sad News - Karla the Dog

From a comment left by Valerie. I wanted you all to see it:

Thanks you all so much for your prayers and love. Yesterday was Karla's last day. We had a nice walk in the beautiful fall sunshine and shared a few bites of orange sherbet together. She was a wonderful, loving "mama" dog who watched over her people and all our critters with love everyday. We will miss her much but know she's no longer in pain. She's probably running and playing with her buddy Max now, who she comforted in his last days. Your prayers and support have meant the world to us and we will never forget that. Love to all, Valerie

Please say a prayer for Valerie as she suffers the loss of her beloved dog.

Prayer Request for Hershey the Dog

From our friend Lou Ann:

A prayer request for an elder sweet neighbor canine pal, Hershey, a 12-YO chocolate Lab, who has degenerative arthritis with increasing difficulty getting around and now a large questionable mass has appeared, having some very down days. Hershey has been such a love and joy to her human Mom and Dad . . . so a very difficult time. Prayers would be greatly appreciated for Hershey, and my sincere thanks to you, Esther, and all here.

Urgent Prayer Request for Karla the Dog

From Valerie:

Please pray for my sweet dog Karla. She has a very aggressive cancerous tumor and only has a few days to live. Thank you so much- Valerie S

Prayer Request for Tinkerbelle the Cat

From Janet:

We are awaiting test results and they think its the dreaded "c"....she won't eat and we are feeding her with a syringe. Please pray for Tinkie that God helps her to heal.
God bless you all,

Good News! Lulu the Cat

From Juliette:

It has been amazing, both times I have asked for your prayers for our cats and both times they have returned within hours. we had searched for Lulu for hours, then she suddenly appeared, very hungry but safe. I can not thank you enough, your prayers guided our Lulu home. I pray that the other owners who appeal to you will get the same joy.
Thank you so much

Update on Maddox the Cat

From a comment left by Kathleen: To all who prayed last night and today - I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I woke up feeling like a new person today. Maddox slept on my bed last night which is very special. When he was diagnosed with diabetes we had to keep him out of our room because he was always hungry and would cry all night. Of course I'd be happy to see him hungry now. It was very nice to have him by my side, on his own accord, most of the night.

This morning, he ate some wet food! He actually ate enough that I was comfortable giving him insulin without pricking his ear. He fought his new pills. While I hate torturing him I saw the positive and was happy he has fight in him still and saw that as a good sign.

Right before I left for work I peeked in the litter box and saw a couple little poops. That is a GREAT sign and means things are moving in there. He is certainly not out of the woods yet but I saw many of my prayers answered. Thank you!

Prayer Request for Lulu the Cat

From Juliette:

I wrote to you some time ago to pray for our cat Nellie after she went missing after surgery, Nellie was returned safe and is now well. I need to ask for your help again, Nellie's sister Lulu has gone missing, we haven't seen her for two days. Lulu was the smallest of the litter and is still our baby. could you please pray for her safe return, we are very worried and miss her.
thank you in hope,

Prayer Request for Maddox the Cat

From Kathleen:

My cat Maddox is a 6 year old diabetic orange and white tabby. He has recently stopped eating. The vet thinks it may be pancreatitis though I fear he may have eaten something that caused an abdominal blockage. He hasn't eaten more than a few bites or pooped in 3 days. He is under the vet's care but currently at home. I am afraid he is going to waste away. To make matters worse, the problem started the day we returned from vacation. My poor pet sitter is blaming herself and scared that we blame her which we do not. I am an emotional wreck. The limbo is killing me. I would rather hear that it is bad and that it is his time or to hear that it is temporary and he will get better but nobody knows. We are facing more and more expensive tests and invasive procedures and more than anything, if he has to go, I want it to be peaceful, not after weeks of us forcing him to choke down medicine and forced feeding tubes at the vet.

Please pray that Maddox will start to eat, that I will have the strength to get through whatever happens, and that my pet sitter find peace that this was not her fault. Please pray that Maddox somehow know the pills are to help him and that the pricking of his ear is to only ensure I give him the right dose of insulin during this trying time. Please keep my husband strong as he is the rock that supports me. If I can't be strong all the time, please at least let me be strong enough to get through each work day. Please let whatever has to happen be it he get better or he pass happen quickly and painlessly.

-Kathleen

PS: thank you so much for your site. I stumbled on it today.

Prayer Request for Annie the Cat

From our friend Lou Ann:

For a dear friend, Jane, in Connecticut, her precious cat, "Annie", slipped out an open door when grandchildren were visiting two weeks ago and has not returned. "Annie" the cat was a very precious friend to Jane and her absence and the worry is very very difficult.
Perhaps with the many prayers offered here, St. Anthony may still be able to locate Annie and guide her safely home.
God Bless and thanks so much!

always,

Prayer Request for Abby the Dog

From Maggie:

Abby is a one year old red heeler that I adopted 8 weeks ago. She is very shy of strangers and she exhibits fear aggression towards strangers, especially men. I am working with a trainer who tells me she will never be trustworthy around other people and that if I keep her I will always have to be on guard. Please pray that she learns to master her fears and that I learn how to handle her properly so that she is a good companion dog. I don’t know her background except that I am her third home in her first year of life. I feel so sad and somewhat overwhelmed because I’ve never owned a dog that was not outgoing and happy to be petted and be around people.



I don’t want to abandon her, but I can’t keep her if she is going to be aggressive to strangers.



Anxious and sore at heart would describe my feelings now.



Thanks.

Prayer Request for Shadow the Dog

From Amanda:

Please pray for Shadow - a 1 year old sheltie who fell off of deck steps today and has a spinal cord injury.

Urgent Prayer Request for Puddle the Dog

From Sarah:

I found this link on facebook from a website called fetchdelivers.com they deliver pet food to the twin cities area in Minnesota.
Puddle is a pug that is battling cancer. I just thought this would be a great place to look for help for him. Thanks!

Latest Update on Kia and a Prayer Request

From Dianne:

Update on Kia:
She finally got to come home from the vet.( not to my home:<) But to my friend Diana's home. She's doing better, But she will not come out of the little cat carrier. She is scared I think. We are hopeing that she will come out of there soon.Please keep her in your prayers ok. And thank you for all your prayers and support. I do miss her so.. May God bless and keep all our animals in his loving care God bless you all

Urgent Prayer for Keiki the Bird

Please keep Keiki in your prayers as he was seriously injured yesterday.

Prayer Request for Goober the Dog

From Sharon:

Please pray for our little lost dog Goober. He is a little Dachshund mex who has been missing since 9-17-11. We have done everything to find him but there have been no sightings. Our hearts are broken. He is a little miracle rescue dog who survived parvo, pneumonia and severe demodectic mange all at the same time as a puppy. We are praying for another miracle for his safe return. Thank you so much,

Prayer Request for Mavrick the Cat

From Shannon:

My cat Mavrick is missing. He is a black and white male. He is 9 years old. He is fixed but not declawed. I know that his claws where is only defense. He was inside for 6 years. For the last three years he goes outside. I have a small doggie door that he and my other cats use to go in and out. He has never wondered far. When you call him, especially for dindin he comes running. You say his name or whistle his ears perk up. Non of my cats have every wonder off. Mavrick is a very loving, affectionate, and laid back. Like other when he isn't doing that he's on the hunt for mice, frogs, and lizards. He is always bring me gifts. At night when we go to bed, he will come to bed also. He has always slept at me feet. Once a day he got his kitty message. He loved his belly rubbed. he has been missing for 6 days. Ive posted ads in the paper, graigslist, tabbytracker.com, Facebook, made fliers, walked the neighborhood and talked to everyone, called shelters, vets office, and even did a petamberalert.com. pet amber alert sent out 100 posters to all pet businesses in the area and call 1000 neighbors in my area. I pray non stop that he comes home. I have also been praying to Saint Anthony. I miss my baby boy very much and hope he comes home soon. I love Mavrick with all my Heart!...

Feast of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos C.SsR.

Happy Feast Day of Bl. Seelos Everyone. I thought you'd like to know a little more about this amazing priest, healer of people and animals and hopefully, soon to be canonized saint in the Catholic Church.

Blessed Francis S. Seelos, C.S.s.R. was born in Germany on January 11, 1819 and died on October 4, 1867 at the age of 48.

He was beatified on April 9, 2000 by Blessed John Paul II.
The following Decree for Obligatory/Optional Seelos Memorial in Dioceses of New Orleans Province is from the Seelos Center

In 2009, Most Reverend Alfred C. Hughes, Archbishop of New Orleans, received a decree from Archbishop Albert Malcolm Ranjith establishing the celebration of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos as an obligatory memorial in the Archdiocese of New Orleans and an optional memorial in each of the dioceses of the New Orleans Province.

_____________________________________________________________________________



CONGREGATIO DE CULTU DIVINO

ET DISCIPLINA SACRAMENTORUM



Prot. 2014/03/L



ARCHIDIOECESIS NOVAE AURELIAE



Instante Excellentissimo Domino Alfredo Hughes, Archiepiscopo Novae Aureliae, litteris die 29 ianuarii 2009 datis, vigore facultatum huic Congregationi a Summo Pontifice BENEDICTO XVI tributarum, libenter concedimus ut celebratio Beati Francisci X. Seelos, presbyteri, in Calendarium proprium Archidioecesis Novae Aureliae inscribi valeat, die 5 mensis octobris, gradu memoriae quotannis peragenda.



Contrariis quibusiibet minime obstantibus.



Ex aedibus Congregationis de Cultu Divino et Disciplina Sacramentorum, die 31 mensis martii 2009.



+ ANTONIUS CARD. CAÑIZARES LLOVERA

Praefectus





(+ Albertus Malcolmus Ranjith)

Archiepiscopus a Secretis

Seelos' Top 10 Practical Guide to Holiness

1. Go to Mass with deepest devotion.

2. Spend a half hour to reflect upon your main failing & make resolutions to avoid it.

3. Do daily spiritual reading for at least 15 minutes, if a half hour is not possible.

4. Say the rosary every day.

5. Also daily, if at all possible, visit the Blessed Sacrament; and toward evening, meditate on the Passion of Christ for a half hour.

6. Conclude the day with evening prayer & an examination of conscience over all the faults & sins of the day.

7. Every month make a review of the month in confession.

8. Choose a special patron every month & imitate that patron in some special virtue.

9. Precede every great feast with a novena, that is, nine days of devotion.

10. Try to begin & end every activity with a “Hail Mary.”


Thirteen Bon Mots of Blessed Francis X. Seelos, C.Ss.R.

Selected from Fr. Michael Curley’s Cheerful Ascetic
By Joseph W Oppitz, C.SS.R.

Someday, I will become a second Francis Xavier.

Dear Mother, how I thank you for having taught us children a great devotion to the Mother of God. Such an inheritance from parents is worth more than gold or silver.

Today we will have no writing. The Blessed Mother has appeared to me and told me to become a missionary.

I was John Neumann’s subject, but was more like a son who needed help. In every respect, he was a remarkable father to me.

Baltimore is one of the loveliest and most beautiful cities in all of North America.

If these riots continue, I may even have the privilege of becoming a martyr — a wonderful way to go to heaven.

According to people I am a thorough saint. In reality, I am a thorough scoundrel.

If the Church should ever decide to celebrate the feast of a rude rascal, [Secretary of War] Stanton would easily qualify — even with an octave.

I love the work of the missions more than all other labors; it is a complete apostolic employment in the Lord's vineyard.

If the Americans were as expert in spiritual matters as they are in business affairs, all of them would be saints.

I have made the rounds of all the houses in the province. Only New Orleans yet remains. I have come here to pass the rest of my days and find a lasting resting place at Saint Mary's. I feel I have traveled enough. I shall never leave New Orleans.

So the doctor says I am to die! Oh, what pleasant news! How thankful I am! And to you, doctor, how much I have to return thanks for your kindness and attention to me!

I never thought it was so sweet to die in the Congregation. I now begin to know what happiness it is to live and die a Redemptorist. Oh, let us love our vocation and strive to persevere in it! Then everything will be all right with us.

Thirteen "bon mots" or simple sayings of Fr. Seelos, taken from an article published in Spiritus Patris--some about the spiritual life, some just comments about current affairs — all showing the simple humanity of our beloved Father Seelos.

Source

Bountiful God,
in Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos,
you have given your people
a model for those who labor joyfully
in your earthly kingdom.
May his smile dwell on those who find life burdensome.
In him, our eyes continually behold
the gentleness of Jesus Christ,
our Redeemer.

- by Byron Miller, C.Ss.R. Director of the Father Seelos Center.

Good News! Reba the Dog

From RA Husky:

God is great! Reba is home safe. Thank you for your prayers,

Stretch the Cat's Last Moments

Graciously shared by E.P. and Jim:

Stretch waited for Jim to come home after a week out of town last Friday. Jim and I picked her up from the vet ER Friday evening----where she was admitted a week before!


Stretch showed traces of her old feisty self when she demanded to be immediately taken out of her carrier when she was released by the vet tech. She ate her favorite Senior Friskies formula Pacific Salmon Dinner in Sauce the following day-----and loved the blow dryer primping she received after she got a quick bath wipe treatment!


Stretch passed away with her heart against mine. We will miss her dearly.

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Patron Saint of Animals and Prayers

"God looked at everything He had made, and He found it very good."

- Genesis 1:31

Mosaic at St. Francis Church, Kalaupapa. Photo by Esther

"Saint Francis of Assisi was named the patron saint of ecology in 1989 for good reason.  We might say that Francis saw with the eyes of God.  He saw that all of creation was good, very good.  Francis treasured each part of the created world that he viewed-from lofty Mt. Subasio where Assisi nestles to the tiniest worm creeping along the dusty road never his hometown.  Francis believed that ll creation was God's gift and was therefore to be treated as a treasure.  In 'The Canticle of the Creatures" Francis praises God for all creation-the sun and the moon, the stars and the heavens, the wind and air, water and fire, flowers and fruits and herbs.  Francis' heart overflowed with gratitude for all God's gifts.

Picture source

Francis was following Jesus who also treasured creation to such extent tht he used creation images as the basis for explaining spiritual truths to those who flocked to him.  He spoke of seeds and sheeps, figs and fields, pearls and plants, wheat and water.  He spoke of these elements of creation to bring people closer to God."

Picture source

Prayer for a Dying Pet

"Loving God, our beloved pet and companion, __________,
is on his/her final journey. We will miss ________ dearly.
We thank you for the gift that he/she has been to us.
Give us hope that, in your great kindness,
you may restore ___________ in your heavenly Kingdom
according to your wisdom,
which goes beyond our human understanding."

by Friar Jack Wintz, O.F.M

Picture source

A Pet Blessing Prayer

"Blessed are you, Lord God,
Maker of all living creatures.
On the fifth and sixth days of creation,
you called forth fish in the sea,
birds in the air and animals on the land.
You inspired St. Francis to call all animals
his brothers and sisters.
We ask you to bless these animals gathered about us.
By the power of your love,
enable these creatures—our sisters and brothers—to
live according to you plan.
May we always praise you for your beauty in creation.
Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen."

by Friar Jack Wintz, O.F.M

Picture source

St. Francis and the Birds

St. Francis has often been linked with birds and other creatures. Many of us are well acquainted with the statue of St. Francis on the birdbath and with the illustration of birds flying around the saint's head or standing on his shoulders. Such images inspire us to love the whole family of creation. We may also be familiar with St. Francis' Canticle of Brother Sun, in which Francis praises God through "Brother Sun" and "Sister Moon," through "Brother Wind" and "Sister Water," through "Brother Fire" and "Our Sister Mother Earth" and her "various fruits with colored flowers and herbs."

St. Francis loved the larks that flew so gracefully through the sky over Assisi, his hometown. Perhaps you have also heard stories of this brown-robed friar preaching to the birds, releasing Brother Rabbit from a trap or letting Sister Raven serve as his "alarm clock" to awaken him for early-morning prayer.

There are many of us human beings, moreover, who know what it's like to have, as companions, a beloved dog, cat, rabbit, gerbil, parrot or canary. There are others who may not have a pet, but who enjoy walking through the woods or along the seacoast where there are all kinds of creatures of land, air and sea to admire and to contemplate.

"Loving Creator, bless all your creatures—
human and non-human alike.
Instill in us a spirit like that of St. Francis
so that we, too, may show love, respect and care
to the whole family of creation. Amen."

Canticle of the Sun by Marty Haugen


Sources:Thanks to Mary Jane for sharing Father Jack's e-newsletter with me.

Father Jack's Espirations

To Live as Francis Lived

Update on Better Talk Now the Horse

From our friend Lou Ann: Found a message in my inbox today telling me that Better Talk Now, the thoroughbred race horse, who had been very ill and in critical condition at UPenn's New Bolton Center (equine hospital) was doing much better, and was able to be discharged home!

Special thanks to all here at your most special site for all the prayers and positive thoughts!

Update on Kia the Cat

From Dianne:

Update On Kia:
Tomorrow is the big day> Kia will be going home from the vet.
She will have her checkup on her teeth surgery and get vaccinate.
She is doing so much better. Tomorrow we will find out her long term
prognosis. I will let you know ok. Thank you all who have prayed for her
and cont. to pray for her. she is such a fighter and has so much love to give..She just wants to be loved. She will not get to come back to my house
as I'm not suppose to have any kittys. I"m very sad and it breaks my heart
I'm so thankful for my friend Diana, She is going to go to her home.
She is my hero. I thank the lord for her..
God bless you all. May the lord put his arms around all our sick and lost pets and heal them all in his name Amen

Urgent Prayer Request for Mocha the Dog

From Marguerite:

I found your site and wanted to request a prayer for my beloved Mocha.

She is very ill and although the prognosis isn't good. I always have hope and faith that she'll recover.

She has cancer and she is getting worse.

If you would be so kind so say a prayer for her, so that she may get better.

I would greatly appreciated it.

Thank you,

Another email from Marguerite:

Mocha is a 10 1/2 yr old Chocolate Lab. The heart of an angel. She is the sweetest and kindest dog, you can ever imagine.

Thank you so much for praying for my baby girl.

Good News - Buddy the Dog

From Wendy:

Nothing but great news. Buddy wandered home on Saturday, eight days after he went missing. Saturday morning there was snow on the ground and we all we very upset and worried. We searched all morning and around 1 p.m. Buddy wandered back home again on his own. He is skinny and tired but will be fine.

Thank you so much for your prayers and for posting Buddy on your website. I have no doubt that all the prayers lead Buddy back home.

Your site and the people who responded to our plea, brought me so much comfort and hope.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

Prayer Request for Rocky the Cat

"Rocky"

From Brian and Katie:

I found your wonderful website this afternoon while searching for 'prayers for lost pets'.

Many great success stories out there!

We have been missing our little Orange Tabby, Rocky, since the morning of Sept 21st. We have taken days off of work and even cancelled the family vacation to stay home and look for him.

We've posted flyers at local businesses and in over 200 in mailboxes, in our neighborhood and others.

Please keep Rocky in your prayers or start a prayer chain for him to return home safe, soon.

I'll include a photo or two so folks can see him on the site, if you don't mind.

Thank you very much for your help, and keep up the great work!

Respectfully,

Sad News - Stretch the Cat

Stretch (aka Pretty Girl) the cat

March 1991 - October 2011

I received the above photo from Jim. Apparently, Stretch has died. Please keep Jim and his family in your prayers. Thank you for praying!

Stretch the Cat

Prayer Request for Stachie the Cat

From Maria:

... our 12 year old cat Stachie, that we've had since he was a kitten, has been missing since 9/18. We miss him very much and worry about his safety. Please pray for his safe return.

Prayer Request for Joey the Cat

"Joey"

From Carla:

My little Joey is missing. He has been missing since Friday, Sept 30. He is complete white fixed male cat. Please pray for his return to his loving family.

Message for those with Prayer Request

I am off the computer on Sundays. If you have a prayer request, please leave a comment and/or email me privately. I will post them as soon as possible on Monday. BUT please know our prayer warriors will be praying for ALL the pets in need.

God bless,
Esther

Prayer Request for Sterling the Missing Therapy Cat

From Elizabeth: It will soon be three months, since Sterling went missing. He was a gift that literally walked into my house. Even as a kitten, I knew that he was special and soon took him to the nursing home where I work. He brought so many smiles and much comfort to those who no longer are able to have pets. Even people who did not "like cats" fell in love with him and he in turn liked his "work". God has provided me with another Therapy cat and I am grateful. Still, I miss Sterling everyday and the "light" and love of his gentle spirit. I have done everything I can to find him: I ask for prayers for our reunion. I do not feel that our healing work is done and pray for the miracle of his safe return home. Thanks and blessings,