Monday, November 17, 2014


J.M.J. When, due to the inclement weather on Saturday evening, staying unexpectedly, albeit happily, with the Reverend Andrew L. Dickinson at his residence in the Pius XII Newman Center in Brookings where he serves as the Director, I was pleased to note that Father Dickinson is reading The Mysteries of Mary: Growing in Faith, Hope and Love with the Mother of God (Charlotte, North Carolina: Saint Benedict Press, 2011) by Father Marie-Dominique Philippe, O.P. (1912-2006). Father Philippe also wrote The Mystery of Joseph (Bethesda, Maryland: Zaccheus Press, 2009).

Another Philippe, although not related to the first, was also a great spiritual author. Paul-Pierre Cardinal Philippe, O.P. (1905-1984) penned The Virgin Mary and the Priesthood (Staten Island, New York: Alba House, 1993), which was translated into English by Monsignor Laurence J. Spiteri.

I took interest in Father Dickinson's column, "Iron Sharpens Iron. Proverbs 27:17" that appeared in the 2014 Fall Issue of Newman Center Pius XII. The Director asserts that the Newman Center is to be "a safe place for students in the trials of life." I appreciate Father Dickinson's evident care for these young persons.

Safety is a concern for each of us. We especially relate it to our physical welfare. 

But what about spiritual safety? Are we in harm's way, spiritually speaking? Yes--at times more than others. We do not need to be university students to require spiritual safety. We need it throughout our entire lives. 

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1) Let us thank the Lord for the safety that He gives to us. And may we seek it always.  

V. Mary, Comforter of the afflicted. R. Pray for us.


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