Live the best Single Mingle Christian Sharing Lifestyle [even if you are married ;) ]: December 2011

Saturday, December 31, 2011

DESIGNATED DRIVERS AND DESIGNATED DRUNKS - One Bread, One Body, 12/31/2011

Make a New Year's Resolution to share OBOB with a friend.

"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mk 16:15).
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Saturday, December 31, 2011, Pope St. Sylvester I

1 John 2:18-21, Psalm 96:1-2, 11-13, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/123111.cfm

DESIGNATED DRIVERS AND DESIGNATED DRUNKS

"My reason for having written you is not that you do not know the truth but that you do, and that no lie has anything in common with the truth." -1 John 2:21

On this last day of the year, many people try to escape from reality by drinking alcohol, taking drugs, or staring at TV. Some feel so miserable they don't even think of not drinking. They resign themselves to despair and only hope they won't drive when they drink. They even promote "designated drivers." But for every "designated driver" there are at least a few "designated drunks."
In contrast to the world, the Lord warns us: "Stay sober and alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, solid in your faith" (1 Pt 5:8-9). "Children, it is the final hour; just as you heard that the antichrist was coming, so now many such antichrists have appeared" (1 Jn 2:18).
"Let us not be asleep like the rest, but awake and sober! Sleepers sleep by night and drunkards drink by night" (1 Thes 5:6-7). "Be on guard lest your spirits become bloated with indulgence and drunkenness and worldly cares" (Lk 21:34). "Awake, O sleeper, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light" (Eph 5:14). "Avoid getting drunk on wine; that leads to debauchery. Be filled with the Spirit" (Eph 5:18).

Prayer: Father, may I not live under the influence of anything but You.

Promise: "The light shines on in darkness, a darkness that did not overcome it." -Jn 1:5

Praise: Pope St. Sylvester trusted in God's guidance of the Church during difficult times by writing in humility and courage.

(For a New Year's resolution, resolve to read the Bible every day. If you're doing that, then resolve to be a Bible teacher. For encouragement, order our tapes on the "Bible Teachers Series". Our six-tape audio series starts with AV 117-1. Our three-part video series starts with V-117.)

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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2011 through January 31, 2012
?Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 27, 2011

The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Friday, December 30, 2011

THE PAIN AND PROMISE OF FAMILY - One Bread, One Body, 12/30/2011

Read through the whole Bible in 2011. See our reading schedules at:

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ThroughBible.asp
http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/FrAlPlanReadingBible.asp
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Friday, December 30, 2011, Holy Family

Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3, Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19, Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9, Luke 2:22-40
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/123011.cfm

THE PAIN AND PROMISE OF FAMILY

"The Child's father and mother were marveling at what was being said about Him." -Luke 2:33

Many people idealize the Holy Family. Because Jesus is God, Mary is immaculate, and Joseph is holy, their family relationships must have been almost perfect. However, that's not the picture the Bible gives us of the Holy Family. The only scene from Jesus' childhood that we are told about is when Mary and Joseph lost Jesus for three days. You can imagine the peasant couple frantically searching for their twelve-year-old Boy in the metropolis of Jerusalem. When they finally found Him in the Temple, they asked: "Son, why have You done this to us? You see that Your father and I have been searching for You in sorrow" (Lk 2:48). You can almost hear the pain and bewilderment in Mary's voice.
Most people can relate to this trauma more easily than to the holiness of the Holy Family. Many of us are likewise searching for members of our families. We're searching for lost loved ones and for lost love. In sorrow and in pain, we search for acceptance, respect, encouragement, or hope. We can understand the pain of a three-day separation or even of three days in the tomb.
God's Word to us on this Holy Family Sunday promises us that our searching and sorrowing will end when we find Jesus. Then we will find love and peace for us and our families.

Prayer: Father, by Your grace I decide to forgive everyone, especially my family members, as You have forgiven me (Col 3:13).

Promise: "This Child is destined to be the downfall and the rise of many." -Lk 2:34

Praise: Praise to You, risen Lord Jesus! You sanctified families by living for thirty years in The Holy Family. "Give to the Lord, you families...give to the Lord glory and praise" (Ps 96:7-8).

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet How to Get Your Kids to Go to Church and Go to Heaven "or our tape on audio AV 42-3 or video V-42.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Thursday, December 29, 2011

CHRISTMAS AND DEATH - One Bread, One Body, 12/29/2011

Read through the whole Bible in 2011. See our reading schedules at:

Thursday, December 29, 2011, St. Thomas Becket

1 John 2:3-11, Psalm 96:1-3, 5-6, Luke 2:22-35
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122911.cfm

CHRISTMAS AND DEATH

"It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not experience death until he had seen the Anointed of the Lord." -Luke 2:26

At Christmas we remember loved ones who have died. These memories may be painful, but we can't help remembering. At Christmas we can experience accelerated growth in our relationship with the Lord. Because of our love for Him, the sting of death can be taken out of our lives (1 Cor 15:55). We no longer dread the memories of past Christmases. We no longer even fear our own death because by the new depths in our relationship with Jesus we have cast out all fear (1 Jn 4:18).
We can welcome death as did Simeon: "Now, Master, You can dismiss Your servant in peace; You have fulfilled Your word" (Lk 2:29). We can risk our lives as St. Thomas Becket did, and call death our sister as St. Francis of Assisi did. Because Jesus was conceived, born, and dwelt among us, we have a love stronger than death (Sg 8:6). Because of Jesus' birth-day, we can rejoice in our death-day. Because of Christmas Day, we can have confidence on Judgment Day (1 Jn 4:17). Because of our relationship with Jesus the Life (Jn 11:25; 14:6), death no longer has power over us (Rm 6:9).

Prayer: Father, turn our depression to exaltation in Your love.

Promise: "On second thought, the commandment that I write you is new, as it is realized in Him and you, for the darkness is over and the real light begins to shine." -1 Jn 2:8

Praise: St. Thomas faced his martyrdom by stating, "I am ready to die for the name of Jesus and the defense of the Church."

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Wednesday, December 28, 2011

HERODS CAN BECOME "HOLY INNOCENTS" - One Bread, One Body, 12/28/2011

Read through the whole Bible in 2011. See our reading schedules at:

Wednesday, December 28, 2011, Holy Innocents

1 John 1:5-2:2, Psalm 124:2-5, 7-8, Matthew 2:13-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122811.cfm

HERODS CAN BECOME "HOLY INNOCENTS"

"...Rachel bewailing her children; no comfort for her, since they are no more." -Matthew 2:18

Why does the Lord permit evil? Why did He allow "the massacre of all the boys two years old and under in Bethlehem and its environs"? (Mt 2:16) One explanation is that He loves the Herods of the world so much and wants to save them all (see 1 Tm 2:4). The suffering of these innocents is the most powerful means in God's plan of salvation for changing the most hardened Herod-hearts. We see this in the deaths of the martyrs and especially in the sufferings and death of Jesus, the most "holy Innocent" of all.
Why does the Lord permit the abortions of millions of "holy innocents"? One explanation is that He loves those who kill their children and even us who, by our sins, have shared in killing Him. Abortions will be stopped when many of us (not only those directly involved in abortion) stop sinning, stop denying our sins, and start repenting (see 1 Jn 1:8-10). However, if we don't accept the grace of repentance being poured out through His "holy innocents," abortions will then stop only when we are stopped through death, judgment, and hell.
On this fourth day of Christmas, repent and allow the Lord to change the Herod in you into holy innocence.

Prayer: Father, in our contraceptive and abortifacient culture, may I choose life by choosing repentance.

Promise: "If anyone should sin, we have, in the presence of the Father, Jesus Christ, an Intercessor Who is just. He is an Offering for our sins, and not for our sins only, but for those of the whole world." -1 Jn 2:1-2

Praise: The Holy Innocents became the first victims for Jesus Christ. They empower us for holiness and innocence.

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet Be Holy, For I Am Holy.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Tuesday, December 27, 2011

LOVE SUPREME - One Bread, One Body, 12/27/2011

Read through the whole Bible in 2011. See our reading schedules at:

Tuesday, December 27, 2011, St. John

1 John 1:1-4, Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12, John 20:1-8
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122711.cfm

LOVE SUPREME

"This fellowship of ours is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ." -1 John 1:3

Christmas is a special time to begin or deepen our personal relationship with Jesus. Like John, we are running to Jesus and hope to end this Christmas season with a deeper faith in Jesus than ever before (Jn 20:8). We want Jesus to become so real to us that by faith we have heard His voice, seen His face, and touched His nail-scarred hands (1 Jn 1:1). Our Christmas prayer is "to grasp fully, with all the holy ones, the breadth and length and height and depth of Christ's love, and experience this love" (Eph 3:18-19).
The best Christmas present is a personal relationship with the Lord that is so strong it will overcome the strongest temptations, the most terrifying fears, and the most traumatic events - even suffering, sickness, and death. Like John, we want to be called beloved disciples (see Jn 20:2) in a deeper sense, because of this Christmas time spent together with Jesus. May His Christmas love be for us greater than life (Ps 63:4) and stronger than death (Sg 8:6; Rm 8:38-39).

Prayer: Jesus, may my relationship with You be deeper than my relationship with my spouse, children, parents, or friends.

Promise: "Indeed, our purpose in writing you this is that our joy may be complete." -1 Jn 1:4

Praise: St. John's spiritual journey developed from thunderous vengeance (Lk 9:54) to total and complete service and love.

(To have a love for Christ greater than love for life, read the Bible every day. We have several tape series to help you. "Overview of the Bible" is six audio tapes starting with AV 10A-1 or three video tapes starting with V-10A. "15-minute Bible Teaching - New Testament" is forty audio tapes starting with #700. "An Introduction to each Book of the Bible" is 32 audio tapes starting with AV 21-1 or 17 video tapes starting with V-21.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Monday, December 26, 2011

"IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD" (Jn 1:1) - One Bread, One Body, 12/26/2011

Read through the whole Bible in 2011. See our reading schedules at:

Monday, December 26, 2011, St. Stephen

Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59, Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16-17, Matthew 10:17-22
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122611.cfm

"IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD" (Jn 1:1)

"When they hand you over, do not worry about what you will say or how you will say it. When the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say." -Matthew 10:19

Christmas is a celebration of God's Word. On the first day of Christmas, the Church proclaims twelve readings at the various liturgies of the Christmas Masses. On the second day of Christmas we remember St. Stephen, who preached God's Word so powerfully he became the first martyr, and whose diaconate freed the apostles to concentrate on prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:4). Tomorrow, on the third day of Christmas, we celebrate the feast of St. John, writer of the fourth Gospel. In clear and practical ways, the Church celebrates God's Word each day of the Christmas season.
One of God's Christmas presents to us is new power in ministering His Word. If we will go forth as Jesus' witnesses, stand up, and acknowledge Him publicly, God will stir up the Holy Spirit Who will speak in us (Mt 10:20). Our opponents will prove no match for the Spirit's wisdom expressed in our words (Acts 6:10). Our words will have such power as to sting the hearts of our opponents (Acts 7:54). Only by holding their hands over their ears will unbelievers be able to resist the gospel of Jesus (Acts 7:57).
After this Christmas, there'll be "no chaining the word of God" in you (2 Tm 2:9). Open your Christmas present; open the Word.

Prayer: Father, give me the power to read the Bible at least thirty to sixty minutes each day of the Christmas season.

Promise: "The Stephen already spoken of was a man filled with grace and power, who worked great wonders and signs among the people." -Acts 6:8

Praise: St. Stephen's forgiving love as he was being killed echoed the love Jesus showed on the cross.

(To grow in love of God's word, read it daily. For encouragement, order our tape series on "Biblical Counseling" on audio AV 13A-1, AV 13A-3, AV 13B-1 or video starting with V-13A.)

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You can find One Bread, One Body archives, the letter to readers, OBOB eBook edition, and an online donation form at
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Sunday, December 25, 2011

PM eNewsletter Christmas

December 25th, 4th Christmas

Today Jesus, to us is born the saviour of the world, the Christ.

Thank You Jesus for coming to give us new life and to show us the way.

Thank You for being willing to give Your life, so that we might have eternal life.

Thank You Jesus, for being like us in everything but sin.

Thank You Jesus for Your great love for all of us.

Thank You Jesus, thank You.

Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
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For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home page of Presentation Ministries?
Please take a look.
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday YOU'RE SUCH A BABY
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/25/2011

"The Lord has bared His holy arm in the sight of all the nations." -Isaiah 52:10

Before the first Christmas, no one could see the face of God and hope to remain alive
(Ex 33:20). A mere glance from the Lord threw the mighty Egyptian army into a fatal panic
(Ex 14:24ff). Since the sovereign God of creation planned to become flesh (Jn 1:14), why
would He come to earth in weak infancy rather than in adult strength? Some reasons could be:

God wanted to draw His people to a deeper love of Him, and infants are easy to relate to
with love (see Hos 11:4).

God chose to speak to us through His Son (Heb 1:2), in clarity and fullness (cf Heb 1:1).
His infancy makes us speechless. If we can't talk, we'll listen better (see Lk 1:20; 1:63ff).

Who knows the mind of God? (Rm 11:34) His infancy keeps us docile to His mysterious ways.

God is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16). Infants excel at evoking love.

In God's weakness is our strength (cf 1 Cor 1:25).

Jesus has beautiful feet and holy arms (Is 52:7, 10). He lives among us (Jn 1:14). Jesus is
born! Live in His love (Jn 15:9).

Monday "IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD" (Jn 1:1)
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/26/2011

"When they hand you over, do not worry about what you will say or how you will say it. When
the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say." -Matthew 10:19

Tuesday LOVE SUPREME
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/27/2011

"This fellowship of ours is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ." -1 John 1:3

For more readings and inspiration from Presentation Ministries, check us out at
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

Share an OBOB e-mail with a friend today! It's easy and quick and it will make Jesus smile!
http://www.presentationministries.com/obob/obobDriveEmail.asp
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Brochures

" Over 90 Biblically based brochures. Many on topics you don't usually hear addressed."

This Week's Featured Brochures

Your Christmas Present: The Psalms
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp

"The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." John 1:14

The Christmas season is a celebration of God's word. Christmas is the perfect time to
intensify our reading of the Scriptures. In this Christmas season, I invite you to ask
for and accept the grace to read the Psalms in the following 15-day format. In the
Catholic community, 15 days is the briefest possible Christmas season. As you read and
pray the Psalms, you will have the Christmas the Lord wants you to have and begin this
new year with your eyes fixed on Jesus.

Day 1 Psalms 1 - 10
Day 2 Psalms 11 - 21
Day 3 Psalms 22 - 31
Day 4 Psalms 32 - 41
Day 5 Psalms 42 - 51
Day 6 Psalms 52 - 61
Day 7 Psalms 62 - 72
Day 8 Psalms 73 - 79
Day 9 Psalms 80 - 89
Day 10 Psalms 90 - 100
Day 11 Psalms 101 - 106
Day 12 Psalms 107 - 119
Day 13 Psalms 120 - 134
Day 14 Psalms 135 - 145
Day 15 Psalms 146 - 150

Brochures by Topic
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/brochures.asp
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PM Internet Prayer Requests
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp

( check out BTL 3 sections below for another way of sharing prayers)

I pray that each intercessor, each one who visits this prayer site, each one who follows Jesus Christ
in spirit and in truth, a warm, precious, joy-filled, peace-filled Christmas. May Jesus who is the
Light of the world, shine on you, in you and through you, so that you dispel any darkness around you
and pass on the love He has showered on you to each and every one you meet during this Holy Season of
Christmas. Amen
(Anonymous, 12/24/2011 10:54:35 AM)

Father, on this eve of your birth, humbly I ask for your blessing. I ask for peace and prayer for
every living thing. Bring your love to my home and into my heart. Please allow mom to return to your
side. It is her wish to have some dignity again. Please allow Jonathan to be with me. Bless us dear
Jesus. Amen
(susan, fort collins, co, United States, 12/24/2011 10:50:02 AM)

Fear is useless.LORD please look kindly on the petitions in this prayer site and all the requests said
silently in our hearts. Thank you LORD for this coming feast day. Let me reflect on your impoverished
beginning. You choose to be born helpless to chosen ordinary people. Let me reflect on you as a baby
with outstretched arms and a smile. Thank you
(Jim, Wisconsin, 12/24/2011 9:14:16 AM)

Let us present a warm place in our hearts for the Holy Family and the King of Glory, to stay and
remain. Amen.
(Anonymous, 12/24/2011 8:52:40 AM)

Please pray with me for the conversion of Elia so that he gets closer to God, overcomes his past and
opens his heart to me again so we can grow in love and share our lives together again. I ask for the
intercession of St Jude and of St Rita, who was a devoted wife and managed to save her marriage and her
husband through her prayers. Please Lord, help me in this difficult time and don't make me lose the
most important person in my life, to whom I gave all my life and everything I have. Lord, You said:
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you".
Please hear my prayers and open heaven's doors for me. I am begging You to save my relationship with
Elia. Please don't let him ignore me and his responsibilities towards me for I gave everything I have
to him. Lord, give me hope, strength and peace in this Christmas season. May Your will be done! Amen
(Aline H., New York, NY, United States, 12/24/2011 5:49:04 AM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp
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MP3 4 You

The internet ministry for PM is highlighting our downloadable tapes online. The Gospels of
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are featured as are The Acts of the Apostles Part 1 thru 4, 1
Corinthians Part 1 & 2, and Romans Parts 1-3, thru Revelation. Also available, many MP3 formatted
Audio tapes of most epistles in the bible and numerous 15 minute Bible studies by Fr. Al Lauer.

Take a moment and check the link below
http://presentationministries.com/tapes/tape.asp?pubID=269
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Small Christian Communities

We believe the Lord is calling us to build hundreds of more communities by raising up
leaders who will form communities

PM's Small Christian Community Network

Learn about the Communities in our Network
http://presentationministries.com/community/hbcNetwork.asp

Small Christian Community Resources

Introduction to Small Christian Community
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/IntroCommunity.asp

"Unless the Lord Build the House..." - Psalm 127:
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/UnlessTheLordBuild.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityManual.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityGuidebook.asp

For more information contact: community@presentationministries.com
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Bible Telephone Line

New Technology for Bible Telephone Line Ministry
Local Numbers Double Practically Overnight!

The Bible Telephone Line (BTL) has been in operation for 19 years. Begun by Fr. Al
in 1991, it now continues with three teachers trained by him and by Presentation
Ministries. In cities where local numbers have been established, the BTL provides
callers with a short teaching on the readings for the daily Mass. It is available 24
hours a day and 7 days a week. Callers may also leave a short prayer request which
will be shared on the line with the other callers the next day.

** Please check these listings as a number of changes have been made.**

Akron, OH 330 344-9180
Baltimore, MD 443 529-8282
Bismarck, ND 701 595-5300
Boston, MA 508 591-0911
Cincinnati, OH 513 823-3111
Cleveland, OH 440 572-4366
Columbus, OH 614 210-3111
Detroit, MI 734 418-9101
Fort Worth, TX 817 203-3933
Indianapolis, IN 317 564-9292
Jupiter, FL 561 768-4321
Lexington, KY 859 554-1500
Long Island, NY 631 317-2200
Los Angeles, CA 323 984-7500
Louisville, KY 502 694-3131
Miami, FL 305 520-9922
Pittsburg, PA 412 228-0228
Phoenix, AZ 480 630-3999
St. Augustine, FL 904 414-4142
St Louis, MO 314 561-7411
San Diego, CA 619 272-6111
Toledo, OH 419 318-2211
Toronto, Ontario 647 723-9923
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Listen Online!
Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture readings of the Catholic Church by Fr. Al Lauer

Best of Daily Bread Radio Program
http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
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Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-12.asp?navlink=latest

Notable quotations from Pope Benedict XVI and official
teachings of the Roman Catholic Church

THE JOURNEY OF FAITH

FOLLOW JESUS

By faith...men and women of all ages...have confessed the beauty of following the Lord Jesus wherever
they were called to bear witness to the fact that they were Christian: in the family, in the
workplace, in public life, in the exercise of the charisms and ministries to which they were called.

WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS

What the world is in particular need of today is the credible witness of people enlightened in mind
and heart by the word of the Lord, and capable of opening the hearts and minds of many to the desire
for God and for true life, life without end.

(Source: Apostolic Letter, Porta Fidei, issued 10/11/11)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-12.asp?navlink=latest
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PM Ministry List

" The Lord works through PM in many different ways. Below you can find information about
some of our ministries.

Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2005Home.asp

Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

John Paul Speaks
http://presentationministries.com/JPS/johnpaulspeaks.asp

My People Newspaper
http://presentationministries.com/mypeople/mypeople24-1.asp?navlink=latest

PM Newsletter
http://presentationministries.com/newsletter/newsletter12-1.asp?navlink=latest

Prophecies from Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

St. John Bosco Youth Group
http://youth.presentationministries.com/

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2011 RETREATS
Online Registration

2011 RETREATS

· Male Identity in Christ (Jan 14)
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp

Can you help us with the construction of the new Chapel and Retreat Center?
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/chapel.asp

More information and registration for the Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2011Home.asp

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
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· Sign-up for the OBOB daily e-mail list
http://presentationministries.com/general/emailList.asp

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YOU'RE SUCH A BABY - One Bread, One Body, 12/25/2011

We at Presentation Ministries wish you a very holy and blessed Christmas. We pray you will receive Jesus, the Word Incarnate, in a new way into your heart.

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Sunday, December 25, 2011, Christmas

Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-6, Psalm 98:1-6, John 1:1-18
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122511.cfm

YOU'RE SUCH A BABY

"The Lord has bared His holy arm in the sight of all the nations." -Isaiah 52:10

As the father of six, I have been privileged to wake up on six Christmas mornings and hold my infant child. I would stare at my baby in wonder, knowing that the Lord Jesus came to earth looking just like the infant in my arms. Despite all this experience with infants and Christmas, I have never been able to fathom the truth that God came to earth as a Baby.
Before the first Christmas, no one could see the face of God and hope to remain alive (Ex 33:20). A mere glance from the Lord threw the mighty Egyptian army into a fatal panic (Ex 14:24ff). Since the sovereign God of creation planned to become flesh (Jn 1:14), why would He come to earth in weak infancy rather than in adult strength? Some reasons could be:
* God wanted to draw His people to a deeper love of Him, and infants are easy to relate to with love (see Hos 11:4).
* God chose to speak to us through His Son (Heb 1:2), in clarity and fullness (cf Heb 1:1). His infancy makes us speechless. If we can't talk, we'll listen better (see Lk 1:20; 1:63ff).
* Who knows the mind of God? (Rm 11:34) His infancy keeps us docile to His mysterious ways.
* God is Love (1 Jn 4:8, 16). Infants excel at evoking love.
* In God's weakness is our strength (cf 1 Cor 1:25).

Jesus has beautiful feet and holy arms (Is 52:7, 10). He lives among us (Jn 1:14). Jesus is born! Live in His love (Jn 15:9).

Prayer: Jesus, I give You the birthday present You want: my life.

Promise: "Any who did accept Him He empowered to become children of God." -Jn 1:12

Praise: Praise Jesus, helpless Infant yet sovereign Lord, our Help, our Love, our Life!

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Saturday, December 24, 2011

'TWAS THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS - One Bread, One Body, 12/24/2011

We at Presentation Ministries wish you a very holy and blessed Christmas. We pray you will receive Jesus, the Word Incarnate, in a new way into your heart.

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Saturday, December 24, 2011

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29, Luke 1:67-79
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122411.cfm

'TWAS THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS

"Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, uttered this prophecy: 'Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel because He has visited and ransomed His people.' " -Luke 1:67-68

Today may literally be one of the most important days of your life. This is Christmas Eve. The Lord in His love has planned this day for you before He created the world. Today you may be on the threshold of the fulfillment of ancient prophecies in your life. Today is probably a very busy day for you as you prepare for Christmas. Nevertheless, I suggest that you leave some things undone. Maybe they're not as essential for Christmas as you think. Use this time to pray. You may have already had your usual quiet time with the Lord, but today is different. Despite all the pressures, be a Mary today instead of a Martha (Lk 10:39-40).
Jesus, the Lord of Christmas, wants to talk to you about your life and your part in His plan of salvation. He will give "His people a knowledge of salvation in freedom from their sins. All this is the work of the kindness of our God; He, the Dayspring, shall visit us in His mercy" (Lk 1:77-78). Jesus says: "Call to Me, and I will answer you; I will tell to you things great beyond reach of your knowledge" (Jer 33:3). "Listen to Him" (Mt 17:5).

Prayer: Father, may I sit down and let You talk to me.

Promise: "I will give you rest from all your enemies. The Lord also reveals to you that He will establish a house for you." -2 Sm 7:11

Praise: Mark, a Catholic music minister, prays for a deep anointing on the music He selects for the Christmas liturgies, asking the Holy Spirit to bring everyone in the congregation to adore Jesus with great devotion.

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Friday, December 23, 2011

A DUMB CHRISTMAS? - One Bread, One Body, 12/23/2011

For Christmas read the Psalms. Our brochure "Your Christmas Present: The Psalms" has a reading schedule.

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp
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Friday, December 23, 2011, St. John of Kanty

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24, Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14, Luke 1:57-66
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122311.cfm

A DUMB CHRISTMAS?

"At that moment his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak in praise of God." -Luke 1:64

Are you spiritually dumb? This Christmas, will you talk about your love for Jesus freely and openly? Or are you tongue-tied like Zechariah?
Zechariah's tongue was loosed to praise the Lord when he obeyed the archangel Gabriel by naming his son "John" (Lk 1:63). If you want your tongue loosed, go back to a point in your life where you disobeyed the Lord. You may think that the Lord forgets about His commands after a while, but no, He's still waiting for you. Two years ago, the Lord may have told you to go to Confession regularly, but you never did it. Obey, and you'll find yourself sharing your faith more freely. Maybe your tongue has only been tied for the two weeks since you have not forgiven a relative of yours. Obey or you'll be silenced for Christmas. You may have never spoken freely of Jesus. So you must go back to the first time you had ever thought of totally giving your life to Him. Once you obey the first commandment of loving the Lord with all your heart, you will obey the last commandment from Jesus before He ascended. You will be His witnesses (Acts 1:8), proclaim the gospel to all creation (Mk 16:15), and make disciples of all nations (Mt 28:19).
If the devil's got your tongue, it's because you're obeying him. If Jesus has loosed your tongue, it's because you obeyed Him. Obey Jesus and proclaim the Christ of Christmas.

Prayer: Father, I know You are waiting for me to obey commands You gave to me years ago. I repent and obey.

Promise: "He will sit refining and purifying [silver], and He will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord." -Mal 3:3

Praise: "O come, O come Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel!"

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Thursday, December 22, 2011

FAITH-PRAISING - One Bread, One Body, 12/22/2011

For Christmas read the Psalms. Our brochure "Your Christmas Present: The Psalms" has a reading schedule.

http://www.presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp
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Thursday, December 22, 2011

1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8, Luke 1:46-56
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122211.cfm

FAITH-PRAISING

"My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit finds joy in God my Savior." -Luke 1:46-47

Mary's Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55) should be compared with the songs of praise by Hannah (1 Sm 2:1-10) and Zechariah (Lk 1:68-79). While Mary's prophetic praises stand out in many ways, the greatest difference is in their contexts. Hannah praised the Lord at the presentation of Samuel. She had been through the shame of barrenness (1 Sm 1:7). The birth of Samuel had changed all that, and she had reason to praise the Lord.
Likewise, Zechariah had endured many long years of childlessness and been deaf and dumb for nine months (Lk 1:20, 62). Now his son was born, his tongue was loosed (Lk 1:64), and he had reason to praise the Lord.
In contrast, Luke puts Mary's praises at the beginning of her pregnancy. She was praising the Lord not only after her suffering but before and during her suffering. She was not only praising afterwards but praising anyway. She was praising by faith and not because she saw favorable circumstances (2 Cor 5:7).
In our prayer these last few days of Advent, we should praise the Lord in hard times. He is Lord, and His love dwarfs even the greatest sufferings.

Prayer: Father, may I praise You as did Mary, Paul, and Silas (see Acts 16:22-25).

Promise: "His mercy is from age to age on those who fear Him." -Lk 1:50

Praise: "O King of all nations, the only Joy of every human heart, O Keystone of the mighty arch of man, come and save the creature you fashioned from the dust."

(For a related teaching, order our tape Mary's Visitation" on audio AV 73-3 or video V-73.)

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Wednesday, December 21, 2011

"ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS _____" - One Bread, One Body, 12/21/2011

Wednesday, December 21, 2011, St. Peter Canisius

Song of Songs 2:8-14 or, Zephaniah 3:14-18, Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21, Luke 1:39-45
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122111.cfm

"ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS _____"

"Arise, My beloved, My beautiful one, and come!" -Song of Songs 2:10, 13

Despite the constant hype the world gives to Christmas, the world only wants a minimal Christmas. People are programmed to be happy with "two front teeth," a new PlayStation, fur coat, diamond ring, Barbie doll, power tool, or even a new car. The world proclaims that getting this for Christmas is a maximum Christmas. When you focus on the gifts instead of the Giver of the gifts, you've set yourself up for a minimal Christmas.
The world is not ready to receive the incarnate Love of the Lord for Christmas. That's why we need Advent: to help us prepare to raise our expectations to receive the earth-shaking, maximum Christmas God has for us. The Lord shouts to us: "Arise" (Sg 2:10, 13). He calls us to rise above our meager expectations. In the northern USA, we expect snow; God expects a new springtime in the Spirit (Sg 2:11ff). We expect family gatherings; God expects us to take our royal place in His glorious family (Jn 3:5; Mt 12:50). We expect good tidings; God sends the Good News by sending His only Son, Jesus (Jn 1:14). We expect delicious Christmas treats; God expects Christ-Mass, featuring the eucharistic banquet of the Lamb. We expect the Christmas Spirit; God expects us to be filled with the Holy Spirit (Lk 1:41). We expect Christmas carols; God provides His own music as He sings joyfully about us (Zep 3:17).
Raise your expectations and have yourself a Mary Christ-Mass.

Prayer: Father, may I expand my vision (see Is 54:2-3) and never limit You to a worldly Christmas. Maranatha!

Promise: "Blest is she who trusted that the Lord's words to her would be fulfilled." -Lk 1:45

Praise: "O Radiant Dawn, Splendor of Eternal Light, Sun of Justice, come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death."

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Tuesday, December 20, 2011

SIGN LANGUAGE - One Bread, One Body, 12/20/2011

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Isaiah 7:10-14, Psalm 24:1-6, Luke 1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122011.cfm

SIGN LANGUAGE

"Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God." -Isaiah 7:11

When we want a sign from the Lord, He often says: "This is an evil age. It seeks a sign. But no sign will be given it" (Lk 11:29). However, when we don't want a sign because we already have our minds made up, the Lord often commands: "Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God; let it be deep as the nether world, or high as the sky!" (Is 7:11)
We may already have our Christmas made up. We've planned it to go a certain way. We don't want to even entertain the thought of Christ changing things at the last minute and messing up our Christmas plans. Yet, the Lord commands: "Ask for a sign. Let Me start to change your mind and open your eyes to My plans for you this Christmas season." When the Lord speaks to us like that, we hope we aren't hearing Him. The Lord realizes this, so He tries to draw us into conversation with and conversion to Him with "sign-language."
Ahaz refused to ask for a sign (Is 7:12). Mary accepted God's signs and said: "I am the servant of the Lord. Let it be done to me as you say" (Lk 1:38). Are you going to be an Ahaz or a Mary this Christmas? Let Christ be Lord of your Christmas.

Prayer: Father, I will listen to You when You say things I don't want to hear.

Promise: "The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; hence, the holy Offspring to be born will be called Son of God." -Lk 1:35

Praise: "O come now, Key of David, O royal Power of Israel controlling at Your will the gate of heaven: come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death; and lead Your captive people into freedom."

(For a related teaching, order our leaflet, Hearing God", or our audio AV 45-1 or video V-45.)

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Monday, December 19, 2011

A COMMON FAITH? - One Bread, One Body, 12/19/2011

Monday, December 19, 2011

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25, Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17, Luke 1:5-25
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121911.cfm

A COMMON FAITH?

"But now you will be mute - unable to speak - until the day these things take place, because you have not trusted my words. They will all come true in due season." -Luke 1:20

Both Manoah and Zechariah had wives who were "barren and had borne no children" (Jgs 13:2; Lk 1:7). In a message from an angel, God promised each of these men that he would miraculously become a father of a son (Jgs 13:7; Lk 1:13). God also revealed to these men that their sons would be lifelong nazirites (Jgs 13:7; Lk 1:15; see Nm 6:2ff) and be extremely important in God's plan of salvation (Jgs 13:5; Lk 1:14-17). Manoah and Zechariah had much in common.
However, one difference between Manoah and Zechariah was faith. Manoah believed the angel's message, while Zechariah did not. Zechariah was punished for his lack of faith by being struck deaf (see Lk 1:62) and dumb (Lk 1:20) during his wife's pregnancy. When Zechariah eventually believed and obeyed God, his tongue was loosed (Lk 1:64), and he then had even more in common with Manoah. Then he too was a man of faith.
Will you be a Manoah or a Zechariah this Christmas? Will you be an early Zechariah or a late one? Will you live "a life of faith" (Gal 2:20) or suffer the second death? (Rv 20:14)

Prayer: Father, give me faith by hearing You. Give me hearing by Your Word (Rm 10:17).

Promise: "God Himself will go before him, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the rebellious to the wisdom of the just, and to prepare for the Lord a people well-disposed." -Lk 1:17

Praise: "O come now, Rod of Jesse's stem, from every foe deliver them!"

(For a related teaching, order our tape Pride and Faith" on audio AV 64-1 or video V-64.)

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Sunday, December 18, 2011

PM eNewsletter 4th Sunday of Advent

December 18th, 4th Sunday of Advent

Jesus, next Sunday is Christmas, and we should have made the decision on what You want from us,
maybe it's our impatience, or anxiety, or fear.

Whatever is holding us back from truly being free to know, love, and serve You with our whole
heart, soul and mind.

Give us the grace to pray and get Your gift ready to be delivered to You on Christmas morning.

Thank You Jesus, for becoming one of us.

Amen and Amen.

Thank you Lord, for loving us totally.
________________________________________________

For more on the teachings of Father Al Lauer see the home page of Presentation Ministries?
Please take a look.
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

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One Bread, One Body

This weeks readings and reflections

Sunday "MAN-IFESTED" (Rm 16:26)
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/18/2011

"The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you."
-Luke 1:35

How can it be (see Lk 1:34) then that the womb of a young teenage girl is big enough to
contain the "Son of God"? (Lk 1:35) After centuries of waiting, God finally found a suitable
dwelling place for Himself in the temple of Mary's womb, "for nothing is impossible with God"
(Lk 1:37).

We disciples of Jesus are Mary's children (Jn 19:27). Baptized into God's family, and as
Mary's children, we are also chosen as "a dwelling place for God in the Spirit" (Eph 2:22).
Not only does He dwell within us in the Spirit, Jesus literally dwells within us when we
receive Him into our bodies in the Eucharist (see Jn 6:56). Jesus then lives in us (Jn 17:23).
In our bodies, which are temples of God (see 1 Cor 6:19), the life of Jesus is made manifest
to us, and then through us to the world (2 Cor 4:10-11, RNAB). "How can this be?" (Lk 1:34)
"Nothing is impossible with God" (Lk 1:37).

Monday A COMMON FAITH?
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/19/2011

"But now you will be mute - unable to speak - until the day these things take place, because
you have not trusted my words. They will all come true in due season." -Luke 1:20

Tuesday SIGN LANGUAGE
http://presentationministries.com/obob/obob.asp?d=12/20/2011

"Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God." -Isaiah 7:11

For more readings and inspiration from Presentation Ministries, check us out at
http://presentationministries.com/home/home.asp

Brochures

" Over 90 Biblically based brochures. Many on topics you don't usually hear addressed."

This Week's Featured Brochures

An Isaiah Advent
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/AnIsaiahAdvent.asp

For centuries the Catholic Church has been led by the Spirit to prepare for Christ's Christmas
coming by reading the prophet, Isaiah. I invite you to ask for the grace to read Isaiah in the
following 22-day format. (22-days is the briefest possible Advent.) This will help you have the
best Advent ever and prepare you to celebrate Christmas in a life-changing, world-renewing way.

December 17 Isaiah 52-53
December 18 Isaiah 54-55
December 19 Isaiah 56-57
December 20 Isaiah 58-60
December 21 Isaiah 61-64
December 22 Isaiah 65-66

Your Christmas Present: The Psalms
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/ChristmasPsalms.asp

"The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." John 1:14

Brochures by Topic
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/brochures.asp
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PM Internet Prayer Requests
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp

( check out BTL 3 sections below for another way of sharing prayers)

Father I want to ask of You for blessings for those who are lonely. May they feel Your love wrapped
around them and know that You Love and Care for each. Send them the messengers of Peace and Love,
not just for the season but for always. Thank You Father for giving us Jesus Your Son the
Personification of You and Your Great Love. Merry Christmas to all! Jesus I trust in You!!
(Theresa H., Thibodaux, Louisiana, 12/17/2011 8:17:27 PM)

We come together every day to pray for our needs and the needs of others as we thank You Father for
Your answers to our prayers. I need a great favor of You My Father. Your son Jerome has an emergency
meeting this week that will be about job lay offs and he may be one. Lord there are many that will
need You to work this out for them also. Please help them. I know that nothing is impossible for You
God. Thank You for being in that meeting with Your children. Glory to God! Jesus I trust in You!
(Theresa H., Thibodaux, Louisiana, 12/17/2011 8:08:09 PM)

Please pray for Dolores, Frederick, Louise, Robert and Mary Jo, all deceased. Isabelle, recovers
from her stroke and gets her health back. Jean Marie and Ann Marie, there needs. Private intention.
(Anonymous, 12/17/2011 7:00:18 PM)

I am in love with man who has no idea. I think of him all day. I dream of him. My heart aches for
him. When I speak to him I get tongue tied. When I look in his eyes I feel like time stops.Please
let this man feel about me like I do him. If he does not please take these feeling away from me so
I may move on.It has been years since I have felt like this. I don't know what to do. Father I love
you and trust in you. Let only your will be done. Amen
(Sara, Panama City, Florida, United States, 12/17/2011 6:27:27 PM)

Plz wish me luck on my first job as a medical assistant make a miracle that they hire me as a full
time right oway on Monday thank u
(suleyma, arleta, california, United States, 12/17/2011 4:45:30 PM)

Heavenly Father,I'm asking you&begging you to please help all the places&people who are affected by
the hurricane&other disasters.Please help all of them heal&recover quickly.Let them feel your love &
presence to all of them/us,dear God.Please don't let anything happen to any of them/us anymore.
Protect all of them/us from danger&harm.Keep all of them/us safe.Watch all of them/us.Shelter all of
them/us with your love.Please help all of us that this hurricane& other disasters in the world will
stop.It is only you dear God who can help all of us so please be with all of us all the time.Please
help each&everyone who has come to you&asks for help.Please hear all of them out&please grant all of
their prayer requests including mine.Please help each&everyone on this prayer site also,please hear
all of them out also& please grant all our petitions.Have mercy on us all. These all I asks you in
Jesus name alone,amen. Thank you Heavenly Father.I love you.
(MARIA, United States, 12/17/2011 4:15:08 PM)

Please follow link to additional prayer intentions.
http://www.presentationministries.com/prayer/prayer.asp
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MP3 4 You

Take a moment and check the link below
http://presentationministries.com/tapes/tape.asp?pubID=269
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Small Christian Communities

We believe the Lord is calling us to build hundreds of more communities by raising up
leaders who will form communities

PM's Small Christian Community Network

Learn about the Communities in our Network
http://presentationministries.com/community/hbcNetwork.asp

Small Christian Community Resources

Introduction to Small Christian Community
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/IntroCommunity.asp

"Unless the Lord Build the House..." - Psalm 127:
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/UnlessTheLordBuild.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Team Manual)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityManual.asp

Building Small Christian Communities (Guide Book)
http://presentationministries.com/brochures/CommunityGuidebook.asp

For more information contact: community@presentationministries.com
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Bible Telephone Line

New Technology for Bible Telephone Line Ministry
Local Numbers Double Practically Overnight!

** Please check these listings as a number of changes have been made.**

Listen Online!
Inspired teaching on the daily Scripture readings of the Catholic Church by Fr. Al Lauer

Best of Daily Bread Radio Program
http://www.presentationministries.com/dbread/dbread.asp
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Pope Benedict XVI, Shepherd of Truth
http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-12.asp?navlink=latest

Notable quotations from Pope Benedict XVI and official
teachings of the Roman Catholic Church

THE JOURNEY OF FAITH

RADIATE THE TRUTH

The renewal of the Church is... achieved through the witness offered by the lives of believers:
by their very existence in the world, Christians are called to radiate the word of truth that
the Lord Jesus has left us.

STAND WITH JESUS

A Christian may never think of belief as a private act. Faith is choosing to stand with the
Lord so as to live with Him.

"FRANK AND COURAGEOUS"

It is the gift of the Holy Spirit that makes us fit for mission and strengthens our witness,
making it frank and courageous.

(Source: Apostolic Letter, Porta Fidei, issued 10/11/11)

http://presentationministries.com/BST/bst2011-12.asp?navlink=latest
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PM Ministry List

" The Lord works through PM in many different ways. Below you can find information about
some of our ministries.

Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2005Home.asp

Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

John Paul Speaks
http://presentationministries.com/JPS/johnpaulspeaks.asp

My People Newspaper
http://presentationministries.com/mypeople/mypeople24-1.asp?navlink=latest

PM Newsletter
http://presentationministries.com/newsletter/newsletter12-1.asp?navlink=latest

Prophecies from Word Gifts Ministry
http://presentationministries.com/general/prophecies.asp

St. John Bosco Youth Group
http://youth.presentationministries.com/

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2011 RETREATS
Online Registration

2011 RETREATS

No retreats are scheduled at this time. Please check back for an updated schedule in the coming weeks.

Can you help us with the construction of the new Chapel and Retreat Center?
http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/chapel.asp

More information and registration for the Bible Institute
http://presentationministries.com/bibleinst/bi2011Home.asp

http://presentationministries.com/pjdc/retreat.asp
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"MAN-IFESTED" (Rm 16:26) - One Bread, One Body, 12/18/2011

Sunday, December 18, 2011, Fourth Sunday of Advent

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Psalm 89:2-5, 27, 29, Luke 1:26-38
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121811.cfm

"MAN-IFESTED" (Rm 16:26)

"The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you." -Luke 1:35

King David wanted to build a temple for God so the Lord could have a house on earth in which to dwell (2 Sm 7:2ff). God told King David that He never asked for a house on earth (2 Sm 7:7), and besides, no house or temple on earth could contain Him anyway (see 1 Kgs 8:27). In fact, the earth isn't big enough to hold even the books which would have to be written about the Lord (Jn 21:25), so how much less could the world, or any temple, contain the Lord Himself (2 Chr 2:5). The very universe itself isn't vast enough to contain the Lord (2 Chr 6:18).
How can it be (see Lk 1:34) then that the womb of a young teenage girl is big enough to contain the "Son of God"? (Lk 1:35) After centuries of waiting, God finally found a suitable dwelling place for Himself in the temple of Mary's womb, "for nothing is impossible with God" (Lk 1:37).
We disciples of Jesus are Mary's children (Jn 19:27). Baptized into God's family, and as Mary's children, we are also chosen as "a dwelling place for God in the Spirit" (Eph 2:22). Not only does He dwell within us in the Spirit, Jesus literally dwells within us when we receive Him into our bodies in the Eucharist (see Jn 6:56). Jesus then lives in us (Jn 17:23). In our bodies, which are temples of God (see 1 Cor 6:19), the life of Jesus is made manifest to us, and then through us to the world (2 Cor 4:10-11, RNAB). "How can this be?" (Lk 1:34) "Nothing is impossible with God" (Lk 1:37).

Prayer: Father, purify the temple of my life this Advent (Mt 21:12ff). May I be a worthy and pleasing dwelling place for You.

Promise: "My mouth shall proclaim Your faithfulness." -Ps 89:2

Praise: "O Adonai and Ruler of the House of Israel, come, and with outstretched arm redeem us."

(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

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Saturday, December 17, 2011

PROPHET-ABLE - One Bread, One Body, 12/17/2011

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Psalm 72:1-4, 7-8, 17, Matthew 1:1-17
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/121711.cfm

PROPHET-ABLE

"Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary. It was of her that Jesus Who is called the Messiah was born." -Matthew 1:16

The coming of Jesus the Messiah was the fulfillment of hundreds of prophecies over hundreds of years. For example, it was prophesied centuries before Christ that the Messiah would come from the tribe of Judah and the line of David. The coming of Jesus into the world this Christmas is also preceded by prophecy.
We find many "dry bones" in this world, even among our immediate family and closest friends. If life is to be restored and Christmas to come, we must "prophesy over these bones, and say to them: Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!" (Ez 37:4) When we do this under the inspiration of the Spirit, we begin a revival, a resurrection, a return to life. The bones begin to rattle, come together, and re-form into Christ's body (Ez 37:7-8).
Christmas is a celebration of life, not death. We must prophesy life in Jesus to the "living dead" (1 Jn 3:14) or they will not have Christmas. Prophecy is the gift to be sought above all others, especially at Christmas time (1 Cor 14:1). For the Word to become flesh, it must first be proclaimed (Jn 1:14). Prophesy, and rattle the bones. Speak the Word of life to the people of death. Prepare the way of the Lord this Christmas.

Prayer: Father, this Christmas I prophesy rebirth "through the living and enduring word of God" (1 Pt 1:23).

Promise: "The scepter shall never depart from Judah." -Gn 49:10

Praise: "O Wisdom, O holy Word of God, You govern all creation with Your strong and yet gentle care."

(For a related teaching, order our tape Gifts of the Spirit "on audio AV 3A-1, AV 3A-3, AV 3B-1, AV 3B-3 or video V-3A, V-3B.)

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Correction: Presentation Ministries - Special Appeal

Hello - We made a mistake in sending the first special appeal and sent the letter from 2010 as opposed to 2011. The correct letter is below and has a few updates about things happening at Presentation Ministries.

Have a blessed Advent and Christmas!

(NOTE: Many of you already received this letter by mail. Thank you for your generous response.)

December, 2011

Dear Brother or Sister in Christ:

Praise Jesus, the Prince of Peace! Thank you for your faithfulness in loving and serving Christ even though surrounded by trials and difficulties. By reading and sharing God’s word in One Bread One Body, you are helping to build Christ’s Kingdom here on earth. In responding to our Special Appeal last fall and throughout the year, you have been a cause for encouragement to us as we make every effort to fulfill the far-reaching vision that the Holy Spirit gave to Father Al Lauer, our founder.

Our many ministries continue to increase and affect many lives as we offer God’s Word “even to the ends of the earth.” Your sacrificial donations, both large and small, make it possible for us to have our materials available in the USA, foreign countries, and globally via our website. The Lord continues to use these different media resources to bring new life and transform hearts. The Gospel is also being proclaimed through radio broadcasts, the Bible telephone line, and the Guadalupe Bible College. After a great deal of work, the basic computer program has been updated and simplified enabling us send out our books and materials in an efficient manner.

The twenty-fifth Bible Institute was the best ever! The Holy Spirit worked in a powerful manner to all those who took part. The evaluations handed in by participants were glowing. Even the staff who provide teaching and ministering were deeply touched, healed, and renewed.

The Paul Jansen Discipleship Retreat Center is in a period of sabbatical – seeking the leading of the Holy Spirit for the future. The Lord is moving mightily in several areas. County water has been brought to us – a major stumbling block in the past. Also, the building people have changed their requirements so that we do not have to build the entire complex at once. Planning is going on to complete about ten rooms. Our prayers are also seeking the Lord on the completion of the Chapel. Please continue to pray that God’s will and His timing will be perfect for this undertaking.

All of our teachers, editors, office personnel, mailing crews, and those who maintain the buildings – whether they give a few hours or work full time – are VOLUNTEERS. No one is paid. We retain the policy of providing our materials and resources, even the retreats and Bible Institute, for a free-will offering.

Every effort is made to control expenses and we have been blessed to be able to reduce some expenses. However, the cost of postage and shipping continue to increase. As you are aware in your own life, many expenses including the maintenance of our buildings have risen. Please continue your prayers for this ministry as we have seen the way in which the Lord is answering your requests. Pray especially for unity in understanding and executing the vision and in uninterrupted leadership for each of the ministries. We especially look for new committed workers in areas where our people have gone on to the Lord. Any offering you can give now or in the future is deeply appreciated and enables us to continue our mission in serving the Lord and His Church.

May the Lord bless you and all your loved ones in the holy seasons of Advent and Christmas.

You can make a donation online by using our secure online donation form, or send your donation to:

Presentation Ministries
3230 McHenry Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45211

In Jesus and Mary,

Deacon George Schmidl, Mark Schuermann, Chris Jasek & Judy Erwin
(Directors of Presentation Ministries)

NOTE: You are receiving this e-mail as you are a member of the One Bread, One Body or PM eNewsletter email lists; or you have placed an order for PM materials via PM's website. This is a special e-mailing which we only do a few times a year. Click here to remove your e-mail address from any of these lists.

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