Saturday, December 27, 2014

As Morning Breaks: Interview with Lisa Hendey

I recently spoke with a dear fellow Mom, friend, and Catholic writer, Lisa Hendey about her latest project: As Morning Breaks.


 As Morning Breaks looks beautiful! Would you kindly tell us why you decided to produce this book, Lisa?

Lisa Hendey: Thank you Donna-Marie for your support for this project! On CatholicMom.com, we added a new Daily Gospel Reflection feature in 2014. Every day on the website, we begin our day with a prayerful reflection on the day’s gospel. The feature has grown to be so popular that we now have readers literally around the globe praying the gospel together each morning.

For 2015, we decided to turn this feature into book format to enable our readers to both pray the gospel anywhere and to enable them to provide needed support for our website. The book is priced at only $2.99 for 685 pages of beautiful inspiration. 100% of our proceeds from the book go directly to our support fund for CatholicMom.com, which pays our ever increasing hosting and editorial fees. We give all of our resources away free of charge, but of course there is an expense related to providing them. We pray that this gift for our readers will also provide a small source of revenue for our site to enable us to meet some of our goals for the New Year.

How many writers have contributed to this book? How did you find them?

Lisa: All of our writers on this project are volunteers. At CatholicMom.com, we have over 150 talented writers, like you Donna-Marie, who all share their writing free of charge to support our readers. Our fantastic Daily Gospel Reflection team wrote this book. The team is comprised of mothers, fathers, singles, a college student, a permanent Deacon and his wife, a religious sister, and folks from across the spectrum of ages and locations. We come together with the gospel as our focus, but the perspectives you’ll find in this book are unique and varied. The one key commonality is a true love for the Word of God and a deeply held desire to be both in that Word and sharing the Good News of the Gospel.

How can this book help the typical Catholic in the pews?

Lisa: Many Catholics only receive a small “taste” of the Gospel when they attend Mass on Sunday. As Morning Breaks invites the reader to read the gospel daily, but then to go even a step deeper to “ponder” the gospel with a simple reflection question and to “pray” a short line of prayer in communion with others who are doing the same in their own homes. Donna-Marie, I love that we as Church share our lectionary around the world and that even though you and I live on opposite ends of the country, we will be praying the same daily gospel. I believe this deeper examination of the gospels can help the average Catholic plunge more deeply into the Word, and to be continually uplifted by the connection between the gospels and the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith.

Can your book help those who are not so committed to going to Mass?

Lisa: The gospels are infectious! I recently met a woman who called herself a Catholic but who did not own a bible and rarely attended Mass. She was wanting to return to the Church and also deeply desired a more fruitful relationship with Our Blessed Mother Mary. I had the great joy of reading a few of the early chapters of the Gospel of Luke with her. I watched her joyful expression as she literally—for the first time—discovered the joy of the gospel. I think those of us who are at church all the time forget that there are those who may not own a bible or even know how to read it.

For those who have not been at Mass regularly, I believe that praying with As Morning Breaks will help them to connect on a deeper level with the Word of God. The book is so inexpensive and completely accessible even on their phone that they can take it and pray with it anywhere. I truly hope that praying the book with our writers will entice those who have been away from the Eucharist to truly long for the Word. I believe that daily reading of the Gospels will build in them a desire to know more and to be more active in their practice of our beautiful faith.

What are your hopes for this book?

Lisa: My greatest hope for As Morning Breaks is that families and individuals will discover the true joy of praying the gospel as part of the “first fruits” of a vibrant morning prayer routine. When we give our earliest moments to God and seek God’s will for our days, our entire life is more simple, more productive, and more joy-filled. 

Additionally, I do hope that readers of this book will understand that with their modest purchase price of only $2.99, that they support a world-wide apostolate in CatholicMom.com. We need and greatly appreciate their support so that we can continue to reach out and spread our love for Christ and the Church to all of those we serve!

Is there anything else you'd like to add? 

Lisa: Thank you for your support Donna-Marie. Talented writers like you are the heart and soul of CatholicMom.com. I invite your readers to come and visit us on the web at www.CatholicMom.com. We truly provide something for everyone: daily “tech talk” features, book and movie reviews, resources for your Domestic Church, free printable children’s activities, meatless recipes every Friday, and of course our daily gospel reflections.

You are very kind, Lisa. Where can we find your book?

Lisa: Find the book at Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/o/ASIN/B00PMK5W2O/catholicmom. While the book is in “kindle” format, you do not need to own a kindle to read it. You can read the book on any phone, tablet, or computer using the free Kindle app. We thank you readers for their support!

Thank you very much, Lisa. May God bless this project!

Christmas blessings!

Friday, December 19, 2014

THE GOOD LIE true-life story coming out soon on DVD!


Warner Bros. THE GOOD LIE is coming out on BluRay and DVD Dec. 23rd. The movie tells the true-life story of the Lost Boys of Sudan, their lives torn apart by civil war, left to grow up in refugee camps, then given the opportunity through the efforts of church groups and other charities to embark on new lives in the U.S. It stars Oscar-winner Reese Witherspoon and some actual former Lost Boys in pivotal roles. 

When it was released in theaters in October, reviewers described it with words like “terrific,” “uplifting,” “moving,” “life-changing,” “unforgettable” “brilliant,” “entertaining” and “joyful.” Perhaps even more impressive, though, is that audiences polled by Cinemascore, the industry standard for gauging filmgoer opinions, rated THE GOOD LIE an “A+” – just the 53rd movie in the last 30 years to receive that honor. 

Here’s a special video feature about the real-life stories behind the film, complete with interviews from Reese Witherspoon, Producer Ron Howard and the Lost Boys in the cast:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhGPaX3MXfE



OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Moving and unforgettable…The Good Lie is a movie that simultaneously enlightens and inspires.” 
Michael Medved, The Michael Medved Show

“Reese Witherspoon delivers strong and giving performance.” 
James Rocchi, TheWrap

EMBARK ON A JOURNEY OF 
SURVIVAL AND TRIUMPH WHEN 
THE GOOD LIE
ARRIVES ONTO BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK and DIGITAL HD ON DECEMBER 23 FROM 
WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT 

Blu-ray and Digital HD include touching bonus features such as “The Good Lie Journey”

Burbank, CA, November 11, 2014 – Miracles happen when “The Good Lie” arrives onto Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital HD on December 23 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. Academy Award® winner Reese Witherspoon (“Walk the Line”) stars alongside Corey Stoll (“House of Cards”) and the Lost Boys, a group of real-life Sudanese refugees. Together, against the backdrop of their shared losses, the Lost Boys and these unlikely strangers find humor in the clash of cultures, and heartbreak as well as hope in the challenges of life in America.  

Along with Witherspoon and Stoll, the film stars real-life Sudanese refugees Arnold Oceng (“My Brother the Devil,” “Adulthood”) and newcomer Kuoth Wiel; Ger Duany (“I Heart Huckabees”) and rapper Emmanuel Jal, who were both former child soldiers and Lost Boys; and Femi Oguns (BBC’s “The Casualty”). Rounding out the cast are Sarah Baker as Faith Based Charities volunteer Pamela Lowi; and, as the younger Lost Boys, Peterdeng Mongok, Okwar Jale, Thon Kueth, Deng Ajuet and Keji Jale, all of whom are children of Sudanese refugees.  

Philippe Falardeau directed “The Good Lie” from a screenplay by Margaret Nagle. The film was produced by Academy Award® winners Ron Howard and Brian Grazer, Karen Kehela Sherwood, Molly Mickler Smith, Thad Luckinbill and Trent Luckinbill. Oscar® nominees Andrew A. Kosove and Broderick Johnson, Kim Roth, Ellen H. Schwartz, Deepak Navar, and Bobby and Deb Newmyer served as executive producers. Alcon Entertainment, Imagine Entertainment and Black Label Media present a Black Label Media, Imagine Entertainment and Reliance Entertainment Production.  

The Good Lie” will be available on Blu-ray Combo Pack for $35.99 *Price corrected on 11/12/14* and includes the film in high definition on Blu-ray disc, a DVD, and a digital version of the movie in Digital HD with UltraViolet. Fans can also own “The Good Lie” via purchase from digital retailers.

SYNOPSIS

They were known simply as “The Lost Boys.”

Orphaned by the brutal civil war in Sudan, which began in 1983, these young victims traveled as many as a thousand miles on foot in search of safety. Fifteen years later, a humanitarian effort would bring 3,600 lost boys, as well as girls, to America.

Mamere and Theo are sons of the Chief in their village in Southern Sudan. When an attack by the Northern militia destroys their home and kills their parents, eldest son Theo is forced to assume the role of Chief and lead a group of young survivors, including his sister Abital, away from harm. But the hostile, treacherous terrain has other dangers in store for them. As the tattered group makes the difficult trek to Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya, they meet other fleeing children, forging a bond with Jeremiah, who, at 13, is already a man of faith, and Paul, whose skills become essential to their survival.  

Thirteen years later, the now young adults are given the opportunity to leave the camp and resettle in America. Upon arriving in Kansas, they are met by Carrie Davis (Witherspoon), an employment agency counselor who has been enlisted to help find them jobs—no easy task, when things like light switches and telephones are brand new to them.  

Although Carrie has successfully kept herself from any emotional entanglements, these refugees, who desperately require help navigating the 21st century and rebuilding their shattered lives, need just that. So Carrie embarks on her own unchartered territory, enlisting the help of her boss, Jack (Corey Stoll). 

BLU-RAY ELEMENTS

“The Good Lie” Blu-ray Combo Pack contains the following special features:
  • The Good Lie Journey
  • Deleted Scenes

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION ELEMENTS

The Good Lie” will be available for streaming and download to watch anywhere in high definition and standard definition on their favorite devices from select digital retailers including Amazon, CinemaNow, Flixster, iTunes, PlayStation, Target Ticket, Vudu, Xbox and others. “The Good Lie” will also be available digitally on Video On Demand services from cable and satellite providers, and on select gaming consoles.


ABOUT DIGITAL HD WITH ULTRAVIOLET
*Digital HD with UltraViolet allows fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital HD with UltraViolet is included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. Digital HD with UltraViolet allows consumers to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through UltraViolet retail services like CinemaNow, Flixster, Target Ticket, VUDU and more. For more information on compatible devices go to wb.com/ultravioletdevices. Consult an UltraViolet Retailer for details and requirements and for a list of HD-compatible devices.

BASICS

PRODUCT SRP
Blu-ray Combo Pack $35.99 *Price corrected on 11/12/14*

Standard Street Date: December 23, 2014
BD Languages: English, Latin Spanish, Canadian French
BD Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Parisian French
Running Time: 110 minutes
Rating: Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, some violence, brief strong language and drug use.
DLBY/SURR   DLBY/DGTL   [CC]
The Credits
About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc.
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video, digital distribution, interactive entertainment, technical operations and anti-piracy businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels, and is a significant developer and publisher for console and online video game titles worldwide. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees, as well as directly to consumers through WBShop.com.

Publicity Contacts

For Product Information
Edelman Public Relations
James Bradicich, 323/761-6545
James.Bradicich@edelman.com   

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
Stuart Herriott, 818/977-2712

For Online Media Outlets
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
Alyssa Some, 818/977-0074

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment
Tina Theriot, 818/977-8902
Tina.Theriot@warnerbros.com


-wbhe-

#THEGOODLIE




Would you like to win a copy of the DVD? Just leave a comment here about why you'd like to win and you will be placed in a drawing.

God bless!

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Pausing to ponder the meaning of the season

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Pausing to ponder the meaning of the season: Pausing to ponder the meaning of Advent and endeavoring to keep the kids focused on the holy season. Have a look here .  God bless you a...

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Update on Catholic Mom's Cafe shows and contest wi...

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Update on Catholic Mom's Cafe shows and contest wi...: Hello! Did you see any of the shows last week in my new series Catholic Mom's Cafe ? Please share your thoughts in the comments below...

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

FREE e-book from Ignatius Press!


Ignatius Press is giving away a FREE e-book: Terrapin by T.M. Doran. Also included is his new short mystery story, The Linden Murder Case Mystery

This giveaway will be available until November 24. Here is a link to this limited time giveaway:


God bless!

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Saturday at Catholic Mom's Cafe

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Saturday at Catholic Mom's Cafe: It's not too late to enter the contests, everyone! This past week many Moms have had their hands full, contending with all kinds of...

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Wednesday on Catholic Mom's Cafe plus contests!

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Wednesday on Catholic Mom's Cafe plus contests!: Hello! Did you see yesterday's show: Kids and the Culture"? Did you like it? Tell me about in the comments below. Also, please t...

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Tuesday's show: Kids and the Culture and CONTESTS!...

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Tuesday's show: Kids and the Culture and CONTESTS!...: Hello! Did you see yesterday's show: The Skinny of Catholic Fashion"? Did you like it? Tell me about in the comments below. Also...

Monday, November 3, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Here's the scoop on the contests this week

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Here's the scoop on the contests this week: Hello! So, there's lots of buzz going on with the launch of my new TV series on EWTN Catholic Mom's Cafe. I am running contests a...

Sunday, November 2, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Catholic Mom's Cafe TV series launches TOMORROW an...

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Catholic Mom's Cafe TV series launches TOMORROW an...: My brand new television series Catholic Mom's Cafe will launch on EWTN tomorrow ! The first show will air at 3:00 AM ET and later...

Friday, October 31, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Are you ready for Friday BUNDLE contest?

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Are you ready for Friday BUNDLE contest?: I have been celebrating Catholic Moms and GrandMoms and all caregivers of children ALL month long! As you might know, my new EWTN TV series...

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Mary of Nazareth Blog Crawl: The Scourging at the Pillar


Mary of Nazareth is a stunning and inspiring movie--an epic film on the Mother of Christ. It moved me to tears. I have heartily endorsed this movie.




View from the Domestic Church is delighted to be a part of the MARY of NAZARETH Blog Tour/Rosary Crawl, along with many other inspiring bloggers. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

In this visit along the blog crawl we are focusing on the  Second Sorrowful Mystery: The scourging at the pillar.

Watch this newly released clip on the Scourging at the Pillar here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAAN-FlN_vE

"Then Pilate took Jesus and scourged him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and arrayed him in a purple robe; they came up to him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' and struck him with their hands" (Jn 19:1-3).
"Jesus' sufferings took their historical, concrete form from the fact that he was 'rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes' (Mk 8:31 ), who 'handed him to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified' (Mt 20:19)" (CCC, 572).
Our Father, 10 Hail Marys (contemplating the mystery), Glory be to the Father.

I encourage you to check out tomorrow’s clip at Family Theater Productions Blog. Angela Calabro will bring us the “Crucifixion”. 

I am confident that you will want to purchase this excellent movie for your family. To do so check it out here: http://www.ignatius.com/Products/MONA-M/mary-of-nazareth.aspx

God bless you!

May Mother Mary keep you close to Her Immaculate Heart!

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Blog Tour: Seven Saints for Seven Virtues



Jean Heimann
Blog Tour Interview with Jean Heimann, Author of  Seven Saints for Seven Virtues 

Donna-Marie: Jean, I've enjoyed your blog Catholic Fire for years. Now you have a book! Your book is beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. You have selected seven stellar saints to write about in your book, Seven Saints for Seven Virtues. Why did you select these specific saints?
Jean Heimann: Before I began writing my book, I prayed about which saints I should write about and the Holy Spirit guided me in their selection. I also had a personal relationship with the saints I write about in the book, that is, I communicate with them on a regular basis in my daily prayers and ask them to intercede in specific situations. These particular saints possess the virtues that I discuss in the book.  They are, in fact, heroic models of the virtues. 
Donna-Marie: What are the seven virtues you write about?
Jean: The seven virtues I discuss are: charity, chastity, diligence, humility, kindness, patience, and temperance.
Donna-Marie: Why did you select these particular virtues?
Jean: These seven virtues are known as the heavenly virtues, which are in opposition to the seven vices or the seven deadly sins. I wanted to show my readers that it is possible to turn away from the seven deadly sins – greed, lust, sloth, pride, envy, anger, and gluttony and to overcome them by practicing the virtues of charity, chastity, diligence, humility, kindness, patience, and temperance.
Donna-Marie: What audience did you have in mind when writing your book?
Jean: The book was written for adolescents and adults, both male and female, Catholic and non-Catholic who desire to develop virtues, to love God more in this life, and to spend their eternity with him in the next life. In other words, it is written for people who desire to grow in holiness.
Donna-Marie: Can you tell us a bout the format of your book?
Jean: Each chapter begins with a saint quote about the specific virtue to be discussed in that chapter. Then, I give a brief biography of the saint, discussing why that saint is a model of that virtue, including various examples of how the saint modeled that virtue in his or her life. I follow that with a definition of the virtues, explaining it thoroughly, and follow that with a modern day model of the virtue. Each chapter ends with a prayer.
Donna-Marie: What is the best way to describe the purpose of your book? 
Jean: The purpose of Seven Saints for Seven Virtues is to assist people who are interested in drawing closer to the Lord how to do that by providing them with saints to show them the way.  I explain how to concretely take the steps to acquire heavenly virtues and to help them through the example modern models, and with prayer – my prayers, their own prayers, and the prayers of the saints.
Donna-Marie: Can you share a modern day example who is a model of a specific virtue? 
Jean: In the chapter on chastity, my modern day model of chastity is Rebecca Dussault, a thirty-three year-old wife and mother of four, and an elite athlete, who modeled the virtue in her single life and who continues to model it as a married woman and mother. I show how chastity is possible for a lay person who is out in the world and that it is not just a virtue for religious who have taken a vow of celibacy.
Donna-Marie: Which groups would benefit from reading your book.
Jean: In a Catholic parish – RCIA groups, marriage preparation groups, youth groups, adult formation groups, book groups. Any person – Christian or non-Christian—who desires to grow in their spiritual life will benefit from reading this book.
Donna-Marie: Where did you get the idea for writing this book?
Jean: I have been interested in the saints since I was a child and renewed that interest when I returned to the Catholic Church after a long absence. In fact, the saints helped draw me back to my Faith.  I developed a deep admiration and devotion toward the saints who drew me closer to the Heart of Jesus.
Donna-Marie: What qualifies you to write a book on the saints and the virtues?
Jean: My deep devotion to the saints, my desire to guide others to grow in holiness, and my love for God are the best qualifiers I can think of.  I also have experience as a psychologist and educator, as a writer, and as a Catholic wife and mother, to lead others, in a gentle and compassionate way, down the narrow road to eternal life. My Master’s degree in Theology adds depth to my understanding of God and His great love for each one of us.
Donna-Marie: Thank you very much for sharing with us. May God bless all who read your book!














Monday, October 20, 2014

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: And the contests begin!

Catholic Mom's Cafe: And the contests begin!: Happy feast of Saint Therese! Today the month long contests begin to celebrate Catholic Moms and GrandMoms! All throughout the month of O...

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Win, celebrate, win, celebrate, win!

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Monday, September 22, 2014

Chatting on the air waves this morning...


I discussed my upcoming new TV series on EWTN this morning on the Son Rise Morning Show. Here's the MP3 of the segment in which I announced the series and also some cool prizes!

God bless!

Friday, September 19, 2014

THE SONG movie debuting SOON!

Have you heard about THE SONG? It's a beautiful love story.

A scene from the film
Here's my endorsement of the film:

Captivating, gritty, and tender—The Song is a powerful faith-based movie about redeeming love. The foolishness and wisdom of Solomon are woven throughout each scene. Masterful acting portrays the messiness of real life temptations gone awry when greed and selfishness prevail and focus on faith in God is lost. The Song is guaranteed to impact lives.

Here's my conversation with the star Alan Powell. But, first a short description:

The Song is a romantic drama inspired by the Song of Solomon with a modern-day setting: today’s country music scene. Written and directed by Richard Ramsey and releasing nationwide on September 26 from Samuel Goldwyn Films and City On A Hill Studio, The Song addresses themes of love, sex, and the meaning of life (it is rated PG-13).
The film is about singer-songwriter Jed King, who is desperately struggling to get away from the ubiquitous specter of his country-music legend father and finally make a mark of his own. After reluctantly accepting a little gig at a local vineyard, everything changes for Jed and he falls madly in love. He marries, and among his grand romantic gestures is writing a hit love song inspired by his love for his bride. Though Jed was determined to stay true to God, his wife, and his music, the temptations abounding in the life of a famous singer-songwriter take their toll, and Jed falls from grace, only to see the redeeming power of faith and love assert itself in his life.

See the conversation here at Catholic World Report.

Would you like to win a super cool THE SONG shirt? I have TWO to give away! I happen to own one myself. I'd model it for you in this post, but then I'd have to go upstairs and get it and put it on and then take a picture and post it...well, you know. But, please take my word, it is a really nice shirt (and soft too!). 

To enter to win, simply leave a comment on this post telling me in one or two lines why you want to see this movie. You don't have to be profound or witty. All entries will go into a random drawing. Please also leave your email address too so I can get in touch with you if you win. That's all! 

Please like THE SONG's facebook  page and follow them on twitter @SeetheSong

Don't forget to enter the fun THE SONG shirt contest! I'll look forward to your entries.

God bless!

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Rooted in Love!

Available at www.donnacooperoboyle.com


I just came across a review for my book Rooted in Love: Our Calling as Catholic Women. Here's the description from the publisher:

Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle, bestselling author and popular EWTN television and radio personality, accompanies Catholic women through the ups and downs of their lives, encouraging them to be reflections of Christ in all things.With warmth and candor, Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle demonstrates why she is so beloved by her readers, viewers, and listeners. Through sometimes-unexpected stories from her own journey, she shows that being a faith-filled Catholic woman does not mean being perfect. Rather, in the midst of parenting difficulties, marital problems, economic hardships, and sickness--among other challenges--one finds strength in Christ and in the wisdom and community of the Church. She highlights how the sacraments, the virtues, prayer, Mary and the saints, the works of mercy, and various devotions and practices all offer women grace and guidance for their lives.
Here's the review. The reviewer says she is "not fully comfortable with Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle’s evangelical style." Nonetheless, here's her review: 


“Rooted in Love” has a very appealing cover. It gives a partial view of a woman walking through a field of what appear to be dandelions or buttercups. The layout, typesetting and soft, bright colors are pleasing. Even more pleasing is the connection between the feminine and the earth, and the representation of natural beauty. This book comes in an attractive “package.”
Can you judge a book a book by its cover? There are some parts I like in this book, other aspects that I don’t identify with. I am not fully comfortable with Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle’s evangelical style.
Nevertheless, I find enough good in the book to write about it. I was reading a chapter a day but did not get farther than three paragraphs on Day 5 before pausing to meditate. “How is Christ ‘my life’ at home?” the author asks.
As a professional family life minister, I know a lot about Christ in the home. But that day I needed to reflect on Christ being not just “in” my life but “being” my life at home. Once again I had to be present to Christ who reveals himself in the quotidian of the household.
The very next paragraph deserves highlighting. Cooper O’Boyle says, “For me, the greatest joy in my vocation is the awareness that I have been raising my five children in the faith all these years — thirty-five to be exact. I consider my home to be a ‘domestic church,’ a little church where amazing growth and transformation happen right within the nitty-gritty details of daily life.”
Her thinking is affirmed by “On the Family” (“Familiaris Consortio”), an apostolic exhortation Pope John Paul II wrote early in his pontificate, and by “Follow the Way of Love,” a 1993 pastoral statement written in ordinary language by the U.S. Catholic bishops...

God bless you and yours,

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Mom-ism Monday # 4: Gluten-free pizza, planting fl...

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Mom-ism Monday # 4: Gluten-free pizza, planting fl...: How's your summer going? What's happening in your domestic church? Any recipes or parenting tips to share? 1) I made some yu...

Saturday, July 5, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Create your summer family memories!

Catholic Mom's Cafe: Create your summer family memories!: My creating summer family memories article at Integrated Catholic Life . Enjoy! God bless, Donna-Marie

Thursday, July 3, 2014

My garlic scape pesto sauce!

I enjoy growing an organic garden each year. One of my very favorite vegetables to grow is garlic. Not only is garlic delicious in many foods, it is extremely nutritious. As well, it is medicinal, and even referred to by some as a natural antibiotic.

My garlic plants
I plant garlic at the end of October each year using cloves of garlic that I have grown. Into the earth goes the garlic clove. Then, late next summer, out comes a big full round garlic bulb when I harvest the plants.

During the growing process the plants grow a scape on top. It's a curvy loop on one of the garlic plant's stems and has a flower blossom on the end. The scapes are cut off the garlic plants so that the plant's energy can go to the bulb growing underground rather than to the blossom for the flower trying to grow at the top of the plant.

So, when the scapes are the right size, they are cut from the plant with a sharp knife to be used in various recipes. My favorite is scape pesto.

I have about 275 garlic plants in the garden this year but I only cut about 15 or so scapes the other day to make some pesto for dinner. So, I'll be harvesting the remaining scapes this week end and making LOTS more pesto sauce and freezing most of it for future use.

Harvesting the garlic scapes...

In my garden. A big handful of cut scapes ready
to bring into the kitchen.

My recipe:

Garlic Scape Pesto

Ingredients for about four cups:


  • 10 to 15 garlic scapes
  • About 1 cup or so of chopped pine nuts (OR pistachios or walnuts)
  • 3/4 to 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (more or less, depending on desired consistency)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (One time I added to this a couple of slices of an Italian four-cheese blend because I was short on the Parmesan cheese. It came out delicious!)
  • Juice from half of a fresh squeezed lemon (more if needed)
  • Sea Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper to taste
  • You can also add 1/2 cup to 1 cup fresh chopped basil

Preparing the scapes - Rinse scapes in cold water, then roughly chop into one inch pieces.

Pour scapes and the pine nuts into the bowl of your food processor. Blend for about a minute, or until a fairly smooth texture is achieved. Scrape down sides of bowl with your rubber spatula.
     With the machine running, slowly add olive oil, and process until thoroughly incorporated, about 15 seconds or more. Then add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, and blend for another 5 seconds. Taste and decide if you might like to add more salt and fresh ground pepper.
     This pesto is excellent freshly made and even better when refrigerated for several hours or overnight. Before chilling, place the pesto in a glass bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
     If you don’t grow your own garlic, garlic scapes are available at farmers’ markets and some grocery markets from June through mid-July. So, hurry and get some. If you make a lot of scape pesto, you can freeze it in air-tight containers for up three months. You can freeze the pesto in ice cube trays or muffin tins and then after frozen, take them out of the trays or tins and place frozen pesto in freezer bags and then pop them back into the freezer. Take out whenever needed for recipes and eating.

     I must warn you that this pesto is extremely "addicting"! :) At least, it is for me. :)



Some scapes cut from the plants and on my cutting board



I cut off the tough "woody" parts of the scape and froze
them for future soup stock making.


chopping pine nuts


Ready to process (a few longer pieces snuck in!)




It smells heavenly!



So delicious!

I hope you get a chance to make and enjoy fresh garlic scape pesto!

God bless!

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Catholic Mom's Cafe: "Mom-ism Monday # 3!

Catholic Mom's Cafe: "Mom-ism Monday # 3!: It's been a week end of special very beautiful feast days! I love the feasts of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Hear...

HILLSONG: LET HOPE RISE movie

BREAKING NEWS: NEW Hillsong movie about a Christian band's remarkable journey...

Here's the trailer.

Here's a press release for "Let Hope Rise"


ALCON ENTERTAINMENT PICKS UP FEATURE “HILLSONG – LET HOPE RISE” 
WARNER BROS. TO RELEASE WORLDWIDE

An Up Close and Personal Journey with the World’s Most Successful Worship Band Shooting Currently On Five Continents 

LOS ANGELES, CA, July 1, 2014—Alcon Entertainment has acquired HILLSONG – LET HOPE RISE for worldwide release by Warner Bros. Pictures, it was announced today by Alcon principals Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson.

The full-length feature documentary, directed by Michael John Warren (Jay-Z’s “Fade to Black”), chronicles the spectacular rise to prominence of the Australia-based Christian worship band Hillsong UNITED. Matthew Weaver of MediaWeaver Entertainment and Jonathan Bock of Grace Hill Media are producing. B. Wayne Hughes, Jr. and Greg Campbell of Cantinas Entertainment, which is financing the feature, are executive producing. Warner Bros. Pictures will release the film on April 3, 2015. 

The movie will present the band’s remarkable journey from a youth group band at Hillsong Church to worldwide sensation, routinely performing sold-out stadium concerts and selling more than 16 million albums all over the world.

In a joint statement, Kosove and Johnson said, “In terms of reach, Hillsong UNITED is one of the biggest bands out there, Christian or otherwise. But at their core, they’re just a group of unassuming individuals impacting the world with their music. We’re thrilled to be part of bringing their extraordinary story to the big screen.” 

Led by Joel Houston, son of Hillsong Church founders Brian and Bobbie Houston, all of Hillsong UNITED’s 11-member band are volunteers or employees of the church. Their songs are so popular is it estimated that on any given Sunday, more than 30 million churchgoers around the world are singing one of Hillsong’s worship songs. 

“With songs like Mighty to Save, Oceans, Hosanna and From the Inside Out, anyone who regularly attends a church knows Hillsong’s music by heart. That’s how influential they’ve become,” Bock said. “And yet despite the fame and adulation, they’re still just a simple worship band trying to do what tens of thousands of other worship bands try to do every week -- glorify God through their music. How they balance that is a fascinating and surprising story.”

The filmmakers will follow the band as it completes its current tour and prepares to record its next album. The film will marry live concert footage with a narrative structure.

“It’s a little weird and a lot humbling to have a movie made about us,” Joel Houston said. “But we didn’t say ‘yes’ to this to draw attention to ourselves. It’s our hope that by sharing an up-close and unvarnished look inside our music and lives, we can shatter pre-conceived notions of what it means to follow Jesus in today’s modern world.” 

Hillsong Church spans 12 global locations with more than 100,000 weekly attendees, including thriving congregations in New York and Los Angeles. In addition to its music efforts, Hillsong  sponsors worldwide ministry work – examples include feeding and educating children in the slums of India, building housing for those living with AIDS in Africa and rescuing victims of human trafficking around the globe – outreaches paid for in part through proceeds from Hillsong UNITED music and merchandise sales

ABOUT ALCON ENTERTAINMENT
Co-founders and co-CEO's Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson founded Alcon Entertainment in 1997 with partner Frederick W. Smith, the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FedEx. Warner Bros. distributes Alcon’s motion pictures via the companies’ long-term output distribution agreement.
Alcon has financed and produced, and/or co-financed/produced 23 films to date, including My Dog Skip; Insomnia, starring Al Pacino, Robin Williams, and Hilary Swank and directed by Chris Nolan; The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants; P.S. I Love You, starring Hilary Swank; the Academy Award nominated Best Picture The Blind Side, which earned Sandra Bullock a Best Actress Oscar; The Book of Eli, starring Denzel Washington and Gary Oldman; the hit family film Dolphin Tale, starring Morgan Freeman, Harry Connick Jr., Ashley Judd and Kris Kristofferson; Prisoners, the critically acclaimed thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve starring Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal; and Transcendence, starring Johnny Depp. Alcon’s next release is Dolphin Tale 2, a sequel to the 2011 box-office success that reunites the original cast. Alcon is currently in pre-production on Point Break, a reimagining of the classic action movie, starring Edgar Ramirez.
Alcon Television Group is currently producing the drama pilot Hysteria with Shaun Cassidy and Adam Schroeder for Amazon; a four-hour mini-series documentary for HBO about the life and times of Frank Sinatra, directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney; and The Expanse, a ten-episode epic space thriller for Syfy Network.  
ABOUT CANTINAS ENTERTAINMENT, LLC
Cantinas Entertainment, LLC, founded in 2014 by Greg Campbell and B. Wayne Hughes Jr., seeks to inspire and engage audiences disillusioned with the landscape of cynicism – and to offer a dependable choice in entertainment.  Upcoming projects include a film based on Brenda Spahn’s book “Miss Brenda and the Loveladies," with Donald Petrie (“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” “Miss Congeniality,”) set to direct. 

God bless!