General Chat

Good morning :-)

Gentle hugs for kandj <3


Another famous and rather stunning Christian statue.....Pieta by Michelangelo

Date Created: 1498–1499
Medium: Marble
Location:St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City

At only 25 years old, Michaelangelo was commissioned by Cardinal Jean Bilhères de Lagraulas to create a sculpture of Mary holding the dead Jesus across her lap for his tomb.

Mary is notably depicted as a young woman, not as a mother of a 33 year old man. But Michaelangelo defended his decision to depict her in this way siting the church’s teaching on her sinlessness.

It is the only work of Michelangelo's that he signed: Legend has it that he overheard pilgrims attribute the work to another sculptor, so he carved his signature in the sash across Mary's chest.


Cx :-)

Hello all

I've just read back and seen the lovely hymn from my school days. Beautiful words long forgotten.

Life continues to be "challenging" to say the least.

"Quietly endure, silenty suffer and patiently wait"
are the very wise words from Martin Luther King.

Sending hugs for those who need them.

Good morning :-)

Underwater Jesus - Christ of the Abyss Statues

The first “Christ of the Abyss” statue is submerged in the seas of San Fruttuoso in Italy, close to Portofino, one of the world’s most famous hamlets.

The bronze statue, which is more than 15 meters deep, was erected on the bed of the sea on the 22nd of August, 1954, at the suggestion of famed Italian diver Duilio Marcante, who wished to install a monument of Jesus following the passing of his colleague Dario Gonzatti during a descent a few years earlier at that site.

Guido Galletti sculpted the statue, which has its arms lifted in an invoking gesture. The monument stands 2.5 meters tall and weighs 260 kilograms without the base.

“The Christ of the Abyss” statue has become a popular tourist attraction for scuba divers from all over the world. There are several diving centres in San Fruttuoso, Italy that offer dives for visitors who want to see the monument.

There are replica statues located in Grenada and in Key Largo.


Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

Looking at Christian religious statues around the world…and today.......

Christ of Christ of Vung Tau in Vietnam

This large statue of Jesus Christ was built on the densely forested Mount Nho in Vung Tàu, Vietnam, by the Vietnam Catholic Association, over a period of 20 years from 1974 – 1993. It is 36 meters (118 feet high), including the pedestal, which one can climb using an internal staircase to reach the top of the granite and concrete monument, and see some spectacular views. The metallic halo rays near the head are not just for decoration, but they also act as lightning rods.

The statue is the largest Christian statue across Asia since 2012, and since its restoration of 1993, it has been a major pilgrim destination for Christians across Vietnam as well as Christian tourists.

Christianity was first introduced to Vietnam in the 16th century. Catholics and Protestants today are reported to constitute 7% and 2% of the country's population respectively;[2] however, the true number might be higher.

Christian foreign missionaries are not allowed to proselytize or perform religious activities without government approval.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)


People are now beginning to drift away for their summer holidays, but there will be those who will be unable to get away this year so maybe a tour around some world-famous landmarks would help.

Probably, one of the most famous is that of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro). This 30-meter (98 feet) Brazil icon weighs 635 tons and was constructed between 1922 and 1931, although the concept for such a statue was first brought up in the 1850s.

However, in 1889 the country became a republic and, with the separation of church and state, the idea was dismissed.

In 1920 the Catholic Circle of Rio started collecting donations from Brazilian Catholics to fund the construction of the statue, commissioning local engineer Heitor da Silva Costa to design it. It has lightning rods on the arms, head, and hands. On average, it's hit by lightning 12 times every summer.

A symbol of Christianity around the world, the statue has also become a cultural icon of both Rio de Janeiro and Brazil and was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

The Collect (special prayer) for today:

Almighty and eternal God,
who, for the firmer foundation of our faith,
allowed your holy Apostle Thomas to doubt
the resurrection of your Son till word and sight convinced him:
grant to us, who have not seen,
that we also may believe
and so confess Christ as our Lord and our God;
who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever. Amen


John 20 24 - 29. In the Gospel set for today, we once again hear the amazing story of Doubting Thomas.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

This is from a local poet...........

Talking with God.
I had a conversation with God just the other day,
A pleasant little chat you know, is all that I can say.
We talked about a lot of things, some bad but mostly good,
I told him how I would run the world if only that I could.

He smiled while I was talking, nodding his head to say
That if only it were possible, the pain would go away.
He told me that I was a dreamer with ideas that he could see
But running the world’s not easy or as clear as it should be.

Many millions of people, with ideas of their own
They would also like to be sat high upon God’s throne.
Many of these people don’t care about the rest
All they want is to confront and put God to the test.

He told me, quite politely to live my life in peace
And one day, if I’m lucky all the wars will cease.
There are no wars in heaven no hatred or detest
Just angels and the souls of men who strive to do their best.

He said to me never worry for mortal sin is rife
But come the time when you are mine, you’ll have a better life.
I leave you mortals to yourself till the time you come to me
And come what may I take your sins away for eternity.

Local talent abounds!!

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

You're very welcome Vera and kandj - I tend to think that something may just catch someone's eye. even for a fleeting moment - and be helpful. <3


Many people love singing hymns that they and their parents and, maybe, grandparents grew up singing. Sometimes, the meaning behind the hymns isn’t properly understood until later life, but the tune ‘sticks’.

It’s said that quite often, those with dementia may not understand what is happening, but can still recall the words to various hymns and prayers which are embedded deep within their souls. Lovely thought.

One such hymn, not often heard now, but which is suitable for this time of year…………..

Summer suns are glowing
over land and sea;
happy light is flowing
bountiful and free.
Everything rejoices
in the mellow rays;
all earth's thousand voices
swell the psalm of praise.

See God's mercy streaming
over all the world,
and his banner gleaming
everywhere unfurled.
Broad and deep and glorious
as the heaven above,
shines in might victorious
his eternal love.

Lord, upon our blindness
your pure radiance pour;
for your loving-kindness
make us love you more.
And, when clouds are drifting
dark across the sky,
then, the veil uplifting,
Father, still be nigh.

We will never doubt you,
though you veil your light;
life is dark without you,
death with you is bright.
Light of light, shine o'er us
on our pilgrim way;
still go on before us
to the endless day.


Cx :-)

Yes, I second kandj’s thanks for your daily postings Cynthia. You must sometimes wonder if you are talking to yourself but I expect there are others like me who do look in most days but feel they don’t have anything useful to add. Your efforts to keep the thread going are much appreciated :-)

Hello all

June is amost over and halfway through the year??

I've read back and you have been as busy as ever Cynthia. Thank you for your daily postings.

What a friend we have in Jesus
All our sins and griefs to bear
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer.

O, what peace we oftern forfeit
O, what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged
Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful?
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayers.

Sending ((hugs)) to those in need right now.

Good morning :-)


Yesterday was St. Peter’s Day and, in the church, this time of year is called ‘Petertide’. It is a time when many who are called to serve within the church are ordained either as a deacon or a priest depending on which stage of training they have reached.

There have been numerous pictures on Facebook and Twitter from dioceses across the country who have held these special and important services for these special people. It has been heartening to see the number of people being called to ministry at a time when we are often told about the shortage of clergy. We pray that God will continue to call, encourage and sustain those who have answered God’s call.


God our Father, Lord of all the world,
through your Son you have called us into the fellowship
of your universal Church:
hear our prayer for your faithful people
that in their vocation and ministry
each may be an instrument of your love,
and give to your servants now to be ordained
the needful gifts of grace;
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

St. Peter's Day.

This day commemorates the martyrdom of two saints, the two great Apostles, Saint Peter and St. Paul.

Peter was the leader of the apostles and the first pope. Paul was born Saul but converted to Christianity on the road to Damascus.

They had been imprisoned in the infamous Mamertine Prison of Rome and both knew they were to be put to death.

They were killed on the same day. St. Paul was beheaded by a sword as he was a Roman citizen and afforded a quicker execution.

It is said of Peter that he was crucified head downward as he didn't feel worthy of being crucified in the same way as Jesus.

In 2010, images of Peter and Paul were found on the wall of catacombs dating back to the 4th Century AD.

We thank God for all the churches that are dedicated to these two great men.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)


Simple Gifts
The smell of the bush after some rain,
the desert in flower on a red plain,
the coming of sleep after much pain;
For gifts simple and profound,
we thank you, loving Friend.

The sound of waves along the shore,
the children’s laughter as they explore,
the promise of love for evermore:
For gifts simple and profound,
we thank you, loving Friend.

The sight of black swans on a calm lake,
the taste of summer in a fruit cake,
travelling by faith after a mistake:
For gifts simple and profound,
we thank you, loving Friend.

The scent of green grass from the cut lawn,
the pure-white blossom on a rough thorn,
the return of hope with new dawn:
For gifts simple and profound,
we thank you, loving Friend.

The fragrance of bread just freshly made,
the brimming cup sipped in the shade,
the pardon of debts never repaid:
For gifts simple and profound,
we thank you, loving Friend.


Cx :-)

Good morning :-)


I love the summer’s golden rays,
shining from the sun
the warmth of lots of laughter
with children having fun.

I love the summer’s breezes,
gently drifting in the air
the sounds of pure delight
when the weather is so fair.

I love the summer’s laziness,
the strolls along the lane
the sound of utter peacefulness
and summer’s gentle rain.

I really do love summertime,
its smells, its sights, its sounds
I love that God so blesses me
when summer comes around!
~~~~~~~~~~
Psalm 118:24
“This is the day which
the Lord hath made;
we will rejoice and
be glad in it.”


Cx :-)

Good morning :-)


The Collect (special prayer) for today:

Lord, you have taught us
that all our doings without love are nothing worth:
send your Holy Spirit
and pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love,
the true bond of peace and of all virtues,
without which whoever lives is counted dead before you.
Grant this for your only Son Jesus Christ’s sake,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen

Luke 9. 51 – end – Jesus sets off for Jerusalem.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)



Saturday is like a blank page, fresh and new, a pause away from routines and responsibilities. Thank you for rest, for recreation, family and friends. Lord, thank you for Saturdays. Amen.


Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

Lord, I want to offer this Friday morning prayer as a way of quieting my mind of all the daily cares and worries and tasks ahead and to take time out to focus on you God, on your love and on your greatness.

I find myself quiet in your presence, full of peace and love. This time is precious and set aside for worship Lord, it is my time to honour you as I awake and thank you for giving me this new day to spend in your presence Lord. Amen

Cx :-)

Hello all

Heavenly Father

As I lay down to sleep, relax the tension in my body, calm the restlessness of my mind; still the thoughts which worry me. Help me to rest my anxieties and all of my concerns in your strong and loving arms.

In Jesus name, Amen.

Sending healing thoughts to all in need.

Good morning :-)

Take care in this heat friends!


May Thursday be a hope filled day,
That floods my fears with light,
A day that quiets all anxious thoughts
As I encounter Christ.
Let Thursday always prompt my heart
To stop and find Your peace,
And live upon the truth You give
My eyes to You I lift.

Cx :-)

Good morning :-)

Heavenly Father, this blessed Wednesday is the day You have made and I will rejoice and be glad in it. I give you all the praise you for the gift of another wonderful day. Your steadfast love never ceases. Your mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning. Amen


Cx :-)