I recently chatted with the Miracle Hunter. You can listen to our conversation: It is on the EWTN show page (aired 11/11/2023). Just click here and look for that date.
Or, tune in on Sound Cloud here.
Enjoy!
Chatting with the Miracle Hunter
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Tag Archives: faith
How do we “feed” the children’s souls?
We followed up with the DVD below to help provide additional “tools” for Catholic families and Faith educators.
Happy Advent!
It’s been awhile. I know. I have been so busy with my book writing and writing work, major traveling for speaking, and I have been sick too. Plus, of course, we just celebrated Thanksgiving.
It really is true. There are only so many hours in a day! 🙂 Where do I begin to catch up with you? You might be following me on social media too, so you know I haven’t fallen off the edge of the Earth!
Here I am with my precious helpers in the kitchen for Thanksgiving. My grandson in the first photo exclaimed, “I am wearing an apron–just like GRANDMA!” There’s nothing like the love of a grandchild. They are blessings to be sure!
We also celebrated four birthdays at Thanksgiving time. Three of my children’s birthdays as well as mine! Lots of festivity! After that, I got sick! I was run down and illness finally got to me. I’m getting better as we speak!
I’ll give you a few updates. My Advent with Our Lady of Fatima book has released. I have copies available here. 
“Lived well, the season of Advent can help us meditate upon our eternal life as well as the need to help others get to heaven. Our Lady emphasizes that heaven is real and that we need to live holy lives to get there one day, but it’s important to recognize that hell is very real, too, and is a sure consequence for unrepented sin…” [From my book]
Catholic Exchange recently posted an excerpt from my book. You can see that here.
Here is a link to listen to a radio conversation I had with Jon Leonetti chatting about my Advent book. Just click on the link and then click on the Novemeber 21st date. You can scroll to the 18:53 time marker and listen there. It goes to about the 30:10 mark. Or, just listen to his whole show if you’d like.
As well, I made a couple of very short videos for yesterday’s and today’s reflections. You can see them on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. I tried to upload them here but the files are too large. I’ll try to do these types of teaching videos as open as I can. I pray that they stir your heart during this marvelous season of Advent and beyond!
In case you’d like additional information on my book:
From the Inside Flap:
Spend this Advent with Our Lady of Fatima
and with six saintly souls who were particularly devoted to her:
St. Teresa of Calcutta, St. John Paul II, Fr. Andrew Apostoli, and the Three Shepherd Children to whom Mary appeared in 1917!
In these spiritually-rich pages, award-winning Catholic author Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle brings you powerful prayers and readings guaranteed to shield you from the annual holiday sales frenzy that, during the holy season of Advent, distracts even sincere believers from preparation for the coming of the Christ Child.
These wise pages are sure to draw you closer to Our Lady of Fatima and her gracious messages of peace and hope. For these Advent prayers and readings are all rooted in Mary’s 1917 messages to Jacinta, Francisco, and Lucia (the three young Fatima visionaries); and in the personal Fatima devotions of three of our holy contemporaries, St. Teresa of Calcutta, St. John Paul II, and the late Fr. Andrew Apostoli.
Reflecting on Advent through their lives and words, you will also learn:
- The prayers of adoration the Angel taught Jacinta, Francisco, and Lucia
- What Fr. Andrew considered the most important of Our LadyFatima requests
- How St. John Paul II fulfilled the Third Secret of Fatima — and why he credits Our Lady with saving his life!
- How, in his final months, Fr. Andrew radically fulfilled Our Lady’s Fatima requests
- The role Mother Teresa secretly played in the consecration of Russia
- Why, particularly in Advent, you must pray for Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart to triumph
- And much more to help you grow closer to Our Lady and keep your Advent frenzy-free.
There’s still time to get an autographed copy. Just click here or on the book cover image above. I hope that if you get a chance to read it that it will deeply inspire you. I hope and pray that Our Lady of Fatima will guide you through each day, along with some special Saintly friends I have woven through the chapters.
It’s been awhile–catching up–my bike trip and trip to the hospital
It’s been a while since I have had a chance to write a blog post. I hope you’ve had a good summer–maybe a little down time.
I’ll fill you in on what’s been happening with me…but, I’ll also give you fair warning…it will be long winded! I have a lot to share…
I have had a very busy schedule, which included travel for speaking, lots of writing work, and very tight writing deadlines. All the while, I have been making several trips with my husband back and forth to my out-of-town Lyme disease doctor to get help with my new case of Lyme disease, as well as the Q Fever (a tick borne disease) already in my system. I have been dealing with many migraines, joint and muscle pain, and several other symptoms. All good material to offer up to God.
Thankfully, the doctor thinks that the Annaplasma and Babisia are now defeated. I worked for sometime (years!) trying to get rid of those nasty tick borne infections. Now, I need to keep working to get rid of the Lyme, please God. The Q Fever is on its way out (we think). We need to do some further checking into this.
Then, there were the unwelcome visitors
There was the “attack” by hundreds of angry bees living in our kitchen wall. There are thousands, actually. But hundreds got into our house. Yellow jackets, to be specific. I was the one with the fly swatter in hand swatting away at them as they found there way into our kitchen through small cracks or crevices where the kitchen cabinets meet the kitchen ceiling. They would occasionally dive at our heads or try to get into our shirts, etc.
I should show you a photo of the massive amounts of duct tape I used to cover every single possible place they might be sneaking in. Well, maybe I’ll skip that photo.
It turns out that the bees made a nest inside our wall by going through an old stove vent on the outside of the house. That’s where thousands of bees still live (until we get them out). So, it’s been interesting keeping up with the bees and trying to get rid of them. We are still working on it.
“Interesting” Summer!
In many ways it’s been an interesting summer. I was on Doxycycline for a month for my new case of Lyme disease (the ticks love me, unfortunately!) When taking that medicine, one is supposed to stay out of the sun. So, I did. I had to stay inside for a whole month except for Mass. We had many sunny days and just going from the front door to our vehicle gave me third degree burns on parts of my body. It was crazy. The blisters and burns took many weeks to heal. I was extremely happy once I got off of the Doxy and started a new antibiotic. Then, I could thankfully go outside again. I love the outdoors.
I’ll cut to the chase…Just a few days ago I was in a bicycle accident. You may have heard about that on social media. It was supposed to be a fun time. Allow me to step back to explain. Last year, my husband and I took a very nice long bike ride on a rail trail. We enjoyed it so much that we said we’d do it again.
Need to take a drive!
But, truth be told, we have been so busy with work schedules that we never scheduled it. However, we recently concluded that we had to do something fun this summer, Lord willing! Maybe that was to get a good bike ride in before the summer ends. We knew just the place!
We made some impromptu plans, and off we went. The added bonus was that we’d also be able to get to the ocean for a very short respite. That would surely soothe our tired minds and lift our hearts and souls.
I “brought” Fr. Andrew along with me as well! I hoped I might have time to read a bit–something I very rarely have a chance to do since I am full time working on writing!
We visited the ocean for just a day.
But, I soaked in all its beauty–the gorgeous skies and pretty clouds painted in designs across the massive blue canvas…
…feeling the the strong warm breeze…watching the cute little sandpipers running back and forth on the beach and the sea gulls flying all around…
…the humongous roaring waves moving their way back and forth across the beach–each time, stealing rocks and shells and forcefully pulling them along–boasting of their power–their consitency.
We actually saw a shark! A real one! Unfortunately, it was attacking a seal. But, that is nature–played out before our watchful eyes. Yes, we saw many seals, and that was fun observing and waiting to see where they will poke their black heads out of the water next.
The day was made in heaven.
Fr. Andrew’s smiling face looked up at me from nearby my beach chair. I never did get a chance to read that magazine that day.
I also didn’t know what would soon unfold.
We finally set out for our bike ride
It was a very warm day. Okay, I should be truthful–it was VERY hot.
Photo before our ride. But, be sure to wear your helmet on bike rides. 🙂
Yet, we were happy to embark upon what promised to be a fun journey on our rented bikes. We made our way onto the bike trail and peddled away. I thoroughly loved the warmth of the wind caressing my face as I sped along, and the penetrating sun’s rays beating down on my (sunscreen-ed) arms.
There were a few challenging hills, but for the most part, it felt almost effortless, even though I have some health challenges with the Lyme disease. It seemed to be just what the doctor ordered–a little break from work–fresh air, sunshine and good company!
I had a bit of trouble with the brakes on my bike and I think the bike guy adjusted my seat a little bit too high. But, I managed to do okay throughout the trip.
Something to look forward to
We figured that after our ride we would treat ourselves to an ice cream sundae! It would be the first one we would have all summer long. For the most part, we try to eat very healthy. However, every once in a while, it is HEALTHY to have a delicious dessert!
We kept peddling away down the rail trail–the tires of our bikes spinning around wildly. Along the way, we passed a couple of families whose red-faced sweaty kids cried out, “I can’t do it anymore! I want to go home!” It was a hot day, as I mentioned. I called out to them with a smile and encouraging words as I passed by. I have no idea if it helped or not, but it was worth a try.
I knew I had to keep going–peddling away to make it up the hill. The sun beat down.
About five miles out, we stopped at a little market to get fresh water bottles. We sat on a wooden bench outside the store to take a short break, drinking our water and making plans. I suggested we turn back because it didn’t take a mathematician to tell us that it would be another 5 miles to get back. Since it was so hot out I figured we might tire easily and not be able to get back.
So, after a short break we hopped back on our bikes and headed to the bike place. I took in the scenery and enjoyed the nature all around us. But, there was one thing that I did not enjoy…
Unexpected turn of events
Just as I was turning to pull into the bike rental place, I skidded on some sand and completely lost control of my bike.Was it the faulty brakes? The bike seat too high? Whatever the case, I was headed directly towards a large solid pole which was extremely close. I came crashing down on the pavement right next to the pole and the bike swung around and belted me in the rib cage. The pain from the crash was excruciating and I couldn’t breathe due to the wallop to my ribs which knocked the wind out of me. I knew I had to wait there on the ground, even though my husband wanted to help me up.
Crumpled up, I waited. I kept crying out in prayer to Jesus to please help me. I know that He did. My husband said my head had been less than an inch from the pole. Somehow, my body swerved away from it and my head was saved. I say, “somehow.” But, I know how. I have no doubt that the collision would have been much worse.
When I could finally get up off the ground, I hobbled ever-so-slowly and painfully to our vehicle. We stopped at a store and my husband ran in to pick up supplies to treat the scary-looking wound on my left knee. But, before I could apply medication and bandages, I had to clean it out first. That was challenging, as many little twigs and pebbles were inside the wound. But, as I attempted to clean it and the water gushed over my knee, it was a perfect opportunity to offer the intense pain to God as Our Lady of Fatima has requested. For the love of God, the conversion of sinners, and in reparation for the sins committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
I then spent some time with ice packs over my very wounded knee.
It wasn’t easy, but, nonetheless, we made it back out to get our ice cream sundaes that we had anticipated early in our bike ride. The efforts to get there, with me bandaged and hobbling slowly and gingerly, were definitely worth it! I think I was still in shock!
After that, it was serious business for days on end (and still doing it!) in the healing process–staying put–icing my badly injured knees and my ribs, changing bandages, icing, elevating, lots of Advil, icing, icing, icing!
Now, here I am again, confined to the house. Like I said earlier, it has been an interesting summer. Today, just six days after the accident, the pain persists. It’s still tough to move, breathe and sleep due to my rib injury. It’s difficult to walk too. But, just today, I think I turned a corner with my left leg in that the swelling is finally going down. Thank you, Jesus! I still have a ways to go and I will be leaving to lead a pilgrimage to France three weeks from today! Please keep me in your prayers for quick healing. Thank you in advance.
I am writing this blog post with my swollen legs elevated and an ice pack on my knee and ribs, because I want to share a very meaningful encounter.
A continuing saga
The other night, I noticed that the injuries were getting worse instead of better. It appeared that a bad infection was rapidly spreading on my left leg.
This necessitated a trip to the Emergency Room. I certainly did not want to go out at that late hour, but I didn’t think I should wait until the morning. My leg looked pretty scary! I began to think that I might have inadvertently left a few stray pieces of debris in my wound which may have caused an infection.
At the ER, GUESS WHAT I happened to pull out of my wallet? It was surely something of comfort… as I retrieved my license for the woman checking me into the ER. It would seem that dear Fr. Andrew was watching over me. I asked for his intercession. Truth be told, I ask him several times a day.
I had an exam and a bunch of x-rays. I was given an antibiotic, as well as instructions. But, I had to smile at how things unfolded with the x-ray technician.
After the doctor examined me, he ordered the series of x-rays of my knee and ribs. By the way, the doctor told me that he could not have cleaned my wound as well as I had. He told me several times. He said I should be a doctor or nurse. 🙂 Well, I am a mother and grandmother, after all! But, back to the x-rays…
I waited on the hospital bed to be taken down to the x-ray. department.
“Knock knock!” A voice from behind the curtain beckoned.
The curtain suddenly moved aside and a woman was standing there. An amazed look immediately spread across her face.
“Aren’t you on EWTN?! Wow! I watch you all the time! Wait a minute…what? You live around here?!”
She was visibly excited. We launched into a very beautiful conversation. As she transported me in a wheel chair towards the x-ray department, the doctor spotted us chatting away and poked his head out from around his computer screen.
“Do you know one another?” I guess he was surprised at our animated discussion at the wee hour of the morning, especially because I was in a lot of pain.
She said, “Yes! I know her from television!”
We were still rolling towards the Radiology department. The doctor looked at me and asked, “You’re on TV?”
I peered at him and put my finger to my lips. “Shhhhhhhhhh!” I said. “I try to keep a low profile around here.”
A lot to talk about
The wonderful x-ray technician (I’ll call her Sally) and I continued gabbing all the way to Radiology and throughout our time together. We talked about EWTN–Sally has been watching for twenty years. We chatted about Fr. Andrew, Fr. Mitch, and others on EWTN, as well as the Faith. I told Sally that I was sure that God saved my head from crashing into the pole.
The only time we were quiet was when I had to hold my breath for the many x-rays.
Just before the x-rays, “Sally” unfastened the chain around my neck to take off my medals. Of course, I had to tell her that dear Mother Teresa had given the Miraculous Medal to me, and that it had gotten so worn out that I had to put it in the decorative case on my chain so I wouldn’t lose it. I also showed her the piece of Mother’s sari that I have in that same little case, right behind the medal. I pointed out dear St. Jacinta’s relic also in there, as well as the other small meaningful medals that I wear.
While my knee was being x-rayed, I realized that my Rosary which contained St. Faustina’s relic was in my pocket. I asked if it was okay that it was, since you are supposed to take off metal objects before x-rays. She said it was fine since we weren’t x-raying that area. I then happily discovered that my pocket also contained a blessed Miraculous Medal. If you know me, you’ll probably remember that I give Miraculous Medals out to people all over the world (like thousands upon thousands, by God’s grace!).
Blessings and graces
After the x-rays were completed, I put my chain back on my neck. I took out the blessed medal from my pocket, kissed it, and touched it to my medals. I then gave it to the kind lady.
“Sally” was delighted and proceeded to show me her medals. She told me the story of when she received a Miraculous Medal from a friend who told her to expect miracles!
After “Sally” brought me back to my hospital room, she thanked me again for the Miraculous Medal. I had a sudden thought that I should also touch her medal to my Rosary. After all, Fr.Andrew had blessed it for me. Why not add another blessing to her new medal? She said she’d add to her chain. She was very grateful.
I told “Sally” that when I am feeling better I will drop off one of my books at the hospital for her. I think I’ll give her my “Miraculous Medal” book!
Well, I am all banged up, and it will take a while to heal completely. But, I have to say that I do love how God brings people together. Don’t you? He arranges all sorts of meetings between complete strangers. I could write a book about that! Oh, wait! I have written several like that! 🙂 I hope you don’t mind my bad attempt at humor. I am a bit stir crazy staying still for so long. 🙂
All joking aside, I love to share true stories of Faith to help inspire others to come closer to God. I will be sharing soon about my new books that will be releasing soon! As well as two that released earlier this year in case you missed them.
It’s time for another ice pack! Oh, and I see a few more angry bees in the house…
God bless you! Please pray for me! Be assured of my prayers for you too.
By the way, how was your summer?
Chatting with Al Kresta about military stresses and invisible war wounds
In case you missed it, you can listen to Al Kresta and me chatting about military stresses and strains and invisible war wounds in our conversation yesterday on Memorial Day: Here is a link to my recent radio chat: Just slide the marker to the “22:27” mark and our chat will begin just after that point. Enjoy!
Sneak peek (excerpt) of my new book!
I wrote a book for Catholic Moms that I feel is both realistic and encouraging (if I may say so myself!). As a mother of five and grandmother I certainly know all about the bombardment from the culture, the demands for perfection, and the countless challenges that today’s mothers face. My desire is to encourage Catholic Moms with Church teaching and help them to discover the sublimity in their amazing vocation of raising little Saints to heaven!
Would you like a sneak peak of my newest book not yet released? I thought so! So, I am sharing the first few chapters as well as the Foreword and Introduction (copywritten material). Take a look here and enjoy!
You can learn more about the book as well as order by clicking the book cover image.
UPDATED TO SAY THAT I JUST RECEIVED AN EARLY SHIPMENT OF BOOKS! CLICK ON THE BOOK COVER IMAGE TO ORDER!
Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World
Give a gift of Inspiration this Christmas!
For children and adults alike!
In this warm retelling of the story of Our Lady of Fatima, Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle unfolds vividly before the eyes of children the mysterious radiant holy Lady who suddenly appeared to three peasant farm children in Portugal.
At a tumultuous time when the First World War was at its height and Portuguese farm families were devastated by the horrors of the Great War, miraculous events mysteriously occurred in 1916 and again in 1917 in an obscure little agricultural hamlet in Portugal.
As Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta were grazing their flock of sheep, a great white Angel emerged, preparing the little shepherds hearts and souls for what was to come. Soon, the Queen of Heaven appeared over a little holm oak tree, bringing many graces and important messages about penance, prayer, and peace. She even performed a miracle the Great Miracle of the Sun to prove her message was from Heaven, a message that would wake up the sleepy village and ultimately change the world!
In reading this beautifully-illustrated chapter book, children will walk in the footsteps of Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta and will be led to ponder Our Lady’s message and how it should be applied to their own prayer lives.
Award-winning author and journalist, catechist, and EWTN television host Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle’s love for children and family shines through these pages. A master storyteller, she now presents this authentic book which reads like a page-turning novel for children ages seven to one hundred and seven.
Warm retelling of Fatima story…Sturdy hard cover..Beautiful illustrations…
PURCHASE autographed copies here!
Editorial Reviews
“Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World is a great easy read, while at the same time very substantial and filled with challenges to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima’s apparitions! Our Lady of Fatima was very instrumental in my personal conversion, particularly through her messages. Donna-Marie brings out Our Lady’s messages clearly while at the same time helping the readers to know the story and to be challenged to live out the Fatima message and to imitate the three holy shepherds of Fatima by giving something to think about at the end of each chapter. I highly recommend this book not just for children, but for all adults as well. Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us!”
Fr. Miguel Marie Soeherman, M.F.V.A.
“Donna-Marie’s Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World is a treasure for all children – young and old alike! With gentle inspirations and lovely illustrations, she tells the story of Fatima so that little ones will not only learn from it, but will be enchanted by it. Oh, to be a child again and to receive this beautiful book in my small, eager hands! With genius and tenderness, the author draws children into the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the message and meaning of Fatima. Well done!”
Marge Fenelon
Speaker and Author of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots: A Living Novena
“In Donna-Marie’s book Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World she has put together the message of Fatima with the significant events that followed – in a way that is suitable for children and adults too.The illustrations are beautifully done and the meditations titled Something to Think About will help children and young people not only to learn the message of Fatima, but more importantly, to live it.”
Fr. Joseph M. Wolfe, M.F.V.A.
EWTN Chaplain
“Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World is a special gift for the 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima and beyond. It is a treasure for children and is sure to help them experience Our Lady’s message.”
Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R.
Co-founder of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, EWTN television Host of Sunday Night Prime
“Our Lady’s Message is an incredible book! Donna-Marie paints a soul-stirring portrait of the Fatima apparitions that speaks directly to the heart of the reader. Filled with remarkable insights and beautiful storytelling, Our Lady’s Message is an engaging, inspiring, and deeply moving look at how the encounter with Our Blessed Mother can truly change your life. Like a fine wine this book should be sipped slowly and savored, most especially in the presence of our Eucharistic Lord in Adoration.”
Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers
Author, Behold the Man: A Catholic Vision of Male Spirituality””
***Purchase autographed copies here!
Please pray for a dear friend!
Please pray for my dear friend Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R. who could use our prayers. I was so blessed to spend time with him recently and he sends his very best, by the way. He thanks you very much for your prayers and he prays for you. Thank you dear Friends for keeping him in your prayers. EWTN announced on television yesterday that dear Father is in his last days. The CFR Friars put it this way: “Please pray for him as he is preparing to journey to the house of Our Father.”
Won’t you join me in praying for him? If you’d like you can start the Christmas novena that starts Novemeber 30th, the feast of St. Andrew (Fr. Andrew’s name day–St. Andrew!). Thank you in advance for praying. Here is the prayer:
Beginning on St. Andrew the Apostle’s feast day, November 30, the following beautiful prayer is traditionally recited fifteen times a day until Christmas. This is a very meditative prayer that helps us increase our awareness of the real focus of Christmas and helps us prepare ourselves spiritually for His coming (from the EWTN website).
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born Of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, I beseech Thee, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires,
[here mention your request]
through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother. Amen.
It is piously believed that whoever recites the St. Andrew Christmas novena prayer FIFTEEN times each day from the feast of St. Andrew (November 30th) until Christmas Eve will obtain the favor requested.
God bless you!
Pausing and Praying for Strangers
I love meeting people along the way in my travels. As I often say, there are no coincidences in life. I met this man at the airport before boarding my flight to New York from Wisconsin. As he approached, sweeping up little pieces of debris with his worn out straw broom, I thanked him for his hard work. I had been in the company of dear Father John Hardon, S.J. on many occasions when he thanked cleaning women and janitors for their work. You see, Fr. Hardon’s mother was a cleaning woman and he made it a point to thank people who work hard to keep our surroundings clean. So, I was thinking of Father, using “a page from his book” as that man approached. My heart went out to that man. He stopped for a moment and thanked me, seemingly very surprised that I would complement him on his work and even thank him. He said it’s extremely rare for him to get a compliment.
So, we got to talking. I love when a conversation unfolds with a stranger. Or, someone whom Mother Teresa would call “Jesus in the distressing disguise of the poorest of the poor.“ I shared a bit about my faith with this man. He told me he is an ex Catholic. I gave him one of my Mother Teresa prayer cards which shows her holding my son. It has a prayer on the back that I wrote. He looked carefully at the card and then placed it in his cart. I just love how he put it there in his cart facing him.
And then I ventured to offer him a blessed Miraculous Medal even though he is an ex Catholic—he accepted it. He said he is saved by Jesus. I told him that it was Jesus‘s mother on the medal. He took it from me and placed into his pocket and told me he would get in touch with me later on. I gave him my business card. We talked a bit more and then I needed to head toward security to eventually board my delayed flight. That is another story about the searches, getting stuck in the air for a while, etc. ?
I prayed a rosary on my flight specifically for this man. I also prayed hard for the man I met a bit later–the one who yelled at me when I was putting my carry-on luggage into the overhead bin when boarding the flight. He was in a mad rush and acted very mean and rude toward me, trying to push me out of his way. I told him–very calmly in a quiet voice, “It will be OK.“ because I knew he was steaming mad and I tried to defuse it, or at least help him to feel better in some way. But, he shot back, “No! It won’t be OK!” And he continued yelling all the way down the aisle to his seat, saying unkind things about me. His wife tried to calm him down, but this man was very angry at me for some reason. However, despite the uncomfortable feeling in being a convenient scapegoat for him, it gave me a wonderful opportunity to want to pray for the angry man. God knows just what He needs and I pray to be a little instrument of God’s love.
No doubt about it, God places these people in our lives for a reason. Will we venture to push a bit beyond our comfort zones to minister to the walking wounded? Everyone has a story. Everyone is loved by God. God asks the faithful to minister to His children. A kind word or gesture, sharing our faith with strangers when possible–all help to transform hearts and souls–including our own! Many times, small acts of love can bring hope to someone’s troubled heart and soul.
Be attentive! Look up from your devices and phones and see who it is, perhaps standing before you or close by that God wants you to minister to. Remember too, that Mother Teresa had said, “Love begins at home.” Let’s also be sure not to neglect our own families and the needs there at home by running off to save the world.
“Angels of God” Fr. Andrew Apostoli talks about the Angels
My dear friend Fr. Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R. talks about the Angels on this show on EWTN: Sunday Night Prime. He was reiterating some of the things we had said on our Angel show prior to this one and mentioned some things that we ran out of time to talk about. We have done two Angel shows together.
One thing that Fr. Andrew reminds us that I mentioned in our previous Angel conversation is that our Guardian Angel brings us at least three things:
!) PEACE when we are troubled or suffering.
2) PENITENCE from our sins, encouraging us to make reparation
3) INSPIRING US TO PRAY to be strengthened and enlightened.
Take a look here below to watch the show:
Unveiling my UPCOMING book!
I am very excited to announce my new upcoming book for military women and those women associated with the military in some way, as well as for those who would like to know more about their lives…
For all women associated with the military!
Book Description: This book is for every woman associated with the military, whether on land, on sea, or in the air and for all those at home who are waiting for their loved one to return or who are living on military bases, or struggling with the myriad of demands connected with military life.
Catholic military women are very special “Soul Sisters.” There s a certain military pride shared amongst them they are in solidarity in a common goal to defend human life, to fight injustice, to protect their country, and support their military husbands, brothers, sons, daughters, cousins, nieces and nephews [or “their military family”]. They have heroically placed their lives on the line on battlefields, as well as in battling military issues on the home front too.
Best-selling and award-winning author Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle, an honorary lifetime member of the Military Council for Catholic Women (MCCW) shines a light on these gallant, heroic women who carry on with great faith, hope, humility, and love and whose heroism doesn’t remain on the battlefield, but is woven into the very fabric of their lives.
Traditional and original prayers, as well as teachings and inspiration from Jesus, Mary, and the Saints are woven throughout the entire book to give a powerful shot in the arm and to uplift spirits. This book will surely speak to the hearts of military mothers, wives, and women who are serving or have served in the military. It will also be a source of prayer and inspiration for anyone connected to the military the patriotic, and for anyone who would like to learn more about these courageous military women.
Due out on February 22, 2018. You can pre-order your copy today by clicking here!
Donna-Marie’s Address at the EWTN Family Celebration
Click below to view the address.
Nurture Your Own Faith! Newest Teaching on Feeding Your Family’s Soul!
Have a look at the newest teaching by Donna-Marie titled, “Nurture Your Own Faith!” After clicking the video BELOW to play it, move the time marker to the 4:00 minute mark (if it doesn’t begin at that point already) and watch until approximately 6:48. Or, watch the whole show! ENJOY!
Latest Segment: “Build Your Backbone: Don’t be a Dead Body!”
Build Your Back bone!
Have a look at my latest teaching in my EWTN TV series “Feeding Your Family’s Soul.”
Click on the video image below to start. Click the little “icon” on the right for “go full screen” if you’d like it to be larger. Move the time marker to the 6:37 mark and watch the short teaching until about the 8:47 mark. Or, watch the whole show. Enjoy!
Another episode of Donna-Marie’s “Feeding Your Family’s Soul”
What does my mother’s rolling pin have
to do with teaching the faith and keeping family traditions alive?
Watch the You Tube video below to see my latest “Feeding Your Family’s Soul” teaching on EWTN!
After pressing the “play” arrow, you can move the time marker over to about the 4:12 mark and it will play until about 7:30 or you can certainly watch the whole episode. Enjoy!
Dates for new segments in Donna-Marie’s new TV series
Donna-Marie’s new “Feeding Your Family’s Soul” EWTN TV series
Dates for August are:
Monday, August 14
Thursday, August 17
Monday, August 21
Monday, August 28
All are shown on the “At Home with Jim and Joy” Show.
Busy, busy, busy summer!
It’s been a busy summer thus far. I have been doing a lot of traveling for speaking and book signing. And also filmed a Bookmark segment with Doug Keck.
No slowing down just yet. I hope I can at least pause in August for even a day or two. But, actually, we will celebrate a family birthday very soon and I will be in my glory to have all my ducklings in a row–first time in a long time. Plus I’ll get to see this little guy again! I simply cannot wait!
On the home front…you probably know that I live way out in the woods of rural Connecticut. The bear has visited our home a few times and was even in the back of my husband’s truck one night!
A couple of house wrens are chittering and chattering away most days deciding upon where to build their nest. First, they put it just outside my office window but have decided to move it to another location. I’ll be keeping a look out to see where they’ll end up. I am a bird watcher, after all!
The great blue heron has visited many times lately–always a highlight in my day to see such a huge and majestic, yet prehistoric looking bird. He comes right on my deck! Yesterday, I looked up from my writing work just in time to see the huge creature flying right by my window!
On another note, I want to let you know about the upcoming episodes for my new show. “Feeding Your Family’s Soul” EWTN TV series.
The dates for August are:
Monday, August 14
Thursday, August 17
Monday, August 21
Monday, August 28
All are shown on the “At Home with Jim and Joy” Show. In case you missed the first two episodes, the first episode is here. And the second is here.
The EWTN Family Celebration is coming up! I’ll be speaking about Fatima at the celebration in Worcester, Mass on September 9th and 10th. I’ll also be appearing on the Live show that Saturday evening, along with Marcus Grodi, Fr. Mitch Pacwa, Doug Keck, Michael Warsaw and a couple of others. You can check that out here.
There’s a very small window of time to register for my pilgrimage to Fatima and Portugal coming up September 17th through the 27th with Fr. Andrew Apostoli! If you’d like to come, please consider registering RIGHT AWAY before time runs out. Here is the information.
Fatima & Poland!
Donna-Marie speaking at the EWTN Family Celebration
Below is EWTN’s Press Release. This year’s Family Celebration theme is the 100th Anniversary of Fatima. I’ll be speaking at this event, as well as will be doing book signings, Meet & Greets, and will appear on the Live show on Saturday night! I hope you can join us. It’s FREE! See the speaking schedule here.
PRESS RELEASE July 5, 2017 |
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Come to EWTN’s 2017 Family Celebration in Worcester, Mass. Celebrate The 100th Anniversary of Fatima With Headliners Such As |
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| Irondale, AL (EWTN) – Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Fatima with EWTN at the Network’s 2017 Family Celebration Sept. 9-10 at the DCU Convention Center in Worcester, Mass. Headliners include Father Mitch Pacwa (“EWTN Live”), Marcus Grodi (“The Journey Home”), Susan Conroy, Fr. Maurice Emelu, and Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle.
In addition, EWTN Chairman & CEO Michael P. Warsaw will host a not-to-be-missed Family Talk with EWTN President Doug Keck (“EWTN Bookmark”), EWTN Chaplain Father Joseph Mary Wolfe, the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, and more. “My favorite part of every Celebration is meeting our EWTN Family members from near and far,” Warsaw said. “This Celebration is our thank you to them for their love and support throughout the years.” The headlining talks are only the beginning. Guests will also have the opportunity to be part of a studio audience for a taping of a special “EWTN Family Celebration Live Show,” celebrate Mass with Worcester Bishop Robert J. McManus and EWTN’s Friars, and meet EWTN hosts and authors while browsing the EWTN Religious Catalogue shop. Plus, there will be plenty of opportunity for Adoration and Confession, and children will be thrilled to meet some of their favorite characters from “EWTN Faith Factory.” EWTN Radio will broadcast live on-site throughout the weekend and staff from the National Catholic Register will be on hand to answer your questions. You’ll even have an opportunity to join EWTN in its mission of evangelization by becoming an EWTN Media Missionary! It’s a feast for the mind, the heart, and the spirit! For more information, please go to our website: http://www.ewtn.com/familycelebration/. We look forward to seeing you there! EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 36th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 268 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division. ###
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Monday’s for Mom: Episode # 1!
Donna-Marie and her Mom!
A Mother’s Never-Ending Prayer
I decided to share the episodes of Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms here on my blog, starting with the first one today! Check back each Monday for a new episode. The shows were filmed by EWTN in 2011.
Radio chat
Here is the link to my recent radio conversation on Radio Maria. You can slide the little marker forward to the 29:34 mark to listen in to our conversation about Our Lady’s Message to Three Shepherd Children and the World. I hope that you enjoy it!
