Father James Altman discussed the importance of the Holy Eucharist and its central role in the Catholic faith, emphasizing the need for reverence and defense of this sacred tradition. He shared personal experiences, including his removal from a parish, and expressed optimism about future opportunities to serve God's Kingdom. The conversation also touched on the topic of animals in Heaven. He discussed his approach to pastoral care, emphasizing the message that "there is no sin you can confess that would make your father love you less." He shared insights from the Parable of the Prodigal Son to illustrate God's infinite love and forgiveness. The conversation ended with plans for future collaboration, including a potential gathering of priests to address divisions within the Church and promote Unity.

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Father James Altman discussed various challenges facing the Catholic Church, including controversies surrounding his own ministry and those of other outspoken priests. He emphasized the importance of adhering to traditional Catholic teachings and practices, particularly regarding the Latin Mass and the Eucharist, while criticizing what he perceives as deviations from these traditions within the Church hierarchy. The conversation also touched on broader societal issues, the role of priests in addressing these challenges, and the need for unity and support among faithful Catholics.

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This episode centered around abortion rights, and pro-life advocacy following the Dobbs v. Jackson Supreme Court decision. Father Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life, joined the conversation to reflect on legislative, religious, and media strategies for advancing the pro-life mission.

Abortion in the Post-Dobbs Era

The group highlighted the rise of chemical abortions, which now constitute over 60% of total abortions, made increasingly accessible through online means. They discussed state-level shield laws, constitutional amendments, and federal policies supporting telehealth and at-home abortion services. Father Frank emphasized the need for complete abolition of abortion, rejecting compromise or incrementalism.

Concerns were raised about AI tools like the chatbot “Charlie,” allegedly used to guide minors in bypassing state abortion laws, posing challenges for regulation and enforcement.

Media and Ministry Initiatives

Plans for a new radio show and podcast featuring Father Frank were discussed, with support from Salem Media. The program, set to broadcast across Colorado and neighboring states, will open with readings from the Liturgy of the Hours, beginning with Psalm 104 for the July 6th feast of St. Maria Goretti, a Catholic saint known for her purity and forgiveness.

Church and Pro-Life Advocacy

The episode explored tensions within the Church regarding the Latin Mass and internal Vatican disagreements. A document alleging support for the Latin Mass by bishops was reportedly denied by the Vatican but seen as credible by the group.

Father Frank recounted a recent meeting with Cardinal Parolin in Rome, discussing efforts to restore his priestly ministry and the broader spiritual battle over abortion. He warned younger activists of growing hostility and emphasized spiritual resilience.

Legislative Updates

Amendment 79 in Colorado—granting constitutional protection to abortion—was a major setback. However, Father Frank praised the House's passage of a new “pro-life bill” that includes abortion funding restrictions and newborn investment accounts. Future initiatives aim to reverse Amendment 79 through a counter-amendment campaign.

Final Reflections

The episode closed with calls for bold Church leadership, preparation for persecution, and unwavering focus on the transformative power of God’s Word. An upcoming educational forum with Bishop Strickland and Father Frank will further address pro-life strategy post-Dobbs.

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The sermon also addresses the humanitarian crisis in Congo, where Madam Alman describes how Christians face persecution and hardship with faith, joy, and worship, despite over 25 million needing aid. Father Andre calls for global solidarity, invoking the Holy Spirit to bring peace and encouraging support for missions like Hope and Mercy to aid communities in Congo, Lebanon, and beyond, emphasizing the transformative power of truth and faith in a troubled world.

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In this Episode, Fr. Andre covered a wide range of topics, including a planned radio show on the mind of Christ, discussions on government structures and religious influence in nations, and historical examples of religious persecution and mind manipulation. Fr. Andre explored the concept of God's voice in nations, the importance of conveying truth, and the dangers of propaganda and manipulation, particularly in communist regimes and modern media. The conversation also touched on the struggle between Christ and Satan for control, and the important role given to us as human being to know the Mind of Christ and to avoid evil emphasizing the importance of understanding the mind of Christ and living in partnership with others to spread the gospel.

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE WORK OF THE MISSION OF HOPE AND MERCY BY GOING ON LINE AND DONATING AT: https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/your-support-matters/

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Father Andre delivered a special Memorial Day reflection honoring military personnel and their families, while also discussing the role of the Holy Father in guiding the Christian community through prayer and obedience to the Will of God that is in Christ Jesus for the whole world. The speaker addressed the Mission of Hope and Mercy’s critical work in challenged regions of the world especially the Middle East and Africa. Fr Andre invited all to join him in condemning recent acts of violence against religious communities and ethnic groups or citizens in any given country. Fr Andre called for unity and peace. The Reflections concluded with an emphasis on embracing the mind of Christ through the 10 Commandments and the exercise of the human conscience and creativity in being good, while introducing a new radio show theme focused on spiritual guidance and global connection. The new radio theme which Fr Andre will cover in his upcoming radio shows is entitled: “The Mind of Christ, the spirit of the world and us!”

Memorial Day Reflection and Gratitude

In this special Episode, Father Andre delivered a reflection on Memorial Day 2025, expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made by US military personnel and their families. He highlighted the importance of honoring fallen soldiers and supporting those who suffer from PTSD, while also acknowledging the United States' role as a global leader in both military, social, scientific, moral and charitable endeavors. The reflection concluded with a call to live up to the ideals of those who have served, by embracing Christian values and working towards a more peaceful world.

Reflections on Faith

Father Andre led a contemplative episode focused on meditation and reflections, particularly on the role of the Holy Father in representing Jesus and guiding the Christian community. He emphasized the importance of prayer, holy obedience, and following news related to the Pope, despite personal pain or betrayals within the church. Father Andre encouraged listeners to stay connected with the Mission of Hope and Mercy by signing up for email updates and following their Twitter/X account.

Mission of Hope and Mercy in Conflict Zones

Fr. Andre discussed the Mission of Hope and Mercy's work in the Middle East and Africa, highlighting the complex and violent situations in countries like South Africa, Congo, and Sudan. Fr. Andre emphasized the need for journalists to cover the massacres and suffering of innocent people in these regions, expressing frustration with how some media outlets have failed to adequately address these issues. The speaker also condemned the recent shooting of two Messianic Jews in Washington DC and called for unity, peace, and freedom for all people, drawing parallels between President Trump's actions to install peace and the work of historical figures like Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa.

Embracing Christ's Mind Over Worldly Distractions

Father Andre discussed the importance of rejecting the spirit of the world and embracing the mind of Christ, which involves living according to the 10 Commandments and practicing compassion and forgiveness. He highlighted humanity's role as original player in creation and the potential for the good use of technology to connect people globally, while also warning against distractions during religious services and the abuse of AI and other technological mediums. Finally, Fr. Andre announced a new theme for the radio show focusing on the Mind of Christ, the spirit of the world, and Human freedom, and encouraged listeners to support the Mission of Hope and Mercy.

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May 18- 2025 VATICAN CITY—

Two major statements were made by Pope Leo the XIV in his first week in office as the 267th Pope of Rome: “Family is founded upon the stable union between a man and a woman”, and the second statement addressed to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See on Friday this past week in which the Pope reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to serve all humanity, describing the diplomatic community as a family “that shares the joys and sorrows of life” and is grounded in human and spiritual values. Also, the Pope noted in a particular way the commitment of the church in all the nations to serve the poor and the marginalized a legacy known to be of the late pope Francis. The Pope also spoke namely about a particular attention which will be given by the church to the protection of creation and the rise of the artificial intelligence which seems to be on the top agenda issues that Pope Leo the XIV will address in the world. The speakers covered various religious and diplomatic topics, focusing on recent statements by Pope Leo the XIV and the historical context of the Vatican's role in international relations. Discussions included upcoming religious celebrations, the importance of family as founded on the union between man and woman, and the Pope's meeting with international diplomats emphasizing peace with justice, truth and hope. The conversation also touched on the economic challenges facing families and the potential implications of the Pope's statements on society and the Church.

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Birth year: 1955

Nationality: American, Peruvian

Education: Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas – Angelicum.

Radio Show for Third Sunday After Easter May 11- 2025

Special Guests:          Carolina Tiriolo, Mission of Hope and Mercy Director in Rome, Italy.

Mrs Germaine Tuamba, Mission of Hope and Mercy Collaborator From Congo, Africa 

What will the Guests Speak About?

The guests discussed the announcement of a new Pope, Cardinal Robert Prevost, who was elected on May 8, 2025, and took the name Leo XIV. The new Pope's election was analyzed by the media, and his first address and homily were discussed, highlighting his emphasis on peace and the Church's role in illuminating the world.

The Pope First Speech: Pope Leo XIV appears on the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica after being chosen the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, at the Vatican, Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Peace be with all of you!
Dearest brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the good shepherd who gave his life for God's flock.

I, too, would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families, and all people, wherever they are, all of the people, all over the earth.

Peace be with you!

This is the peace of the Risen Christ, an unarmed peace and a disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, God who loves us all unconditionally. We still have in our ears that weak, but always courageous voice of Pope Francis as he blessed Rome!

The Pope who blessed Rome, gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world, that Easter morning. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail! 

We are all in the hands of God.

Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we move forward. We are disciples of Christ. 

Christ precedes us. The world needs his light. Humanity needs him as the bridge to allows it to be reached by God and by his love.

Help us, too, and help each other to build bridges, with dialogue, with meetings, uniting us all to be one people, always in peace. Thank you, Pope Francis! I also want to thank all my brother cardinals who have chosen me to be Peter's Successor, and to walk together with you, as a united Church always seeking peace, justice, always seeking peace, justice, always seeking to work as men and women who are faithful to Jesus Christ, without fear, to proclaim the Gospel, to be missionaries.

I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian, who said: "with you I am a Christian and for you I am a bishop". In this sense, we can all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us.

To the Church of Rome, a special greeting! We must seek together how to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges, dialogue, always open to receive like this square with its open arms, all, all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue and love.

And if you allow me a word, a greeting to all and especially to my beloved diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru, where a faithful people accompanied their bishop, shared their faith and gave so, so much to continue being a Church that is faithful to Jesus Christ.

To all of you, brothers and sisters of Rome, of Italy, of the whole world, we want to be a Church of the Synod, a Church that walks, a Church that always seeks peace, that always seeks charity, that always seeks to be close, especially to those who suffer.

Today is the day of the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii. Our Mother Mary always wants to walk with us, to be close, to help us with her intercession and her love. So, I would like to pray together with you. Let us pray together for this new mission, for the whole Church, for peace in the world and let us also ask Mary, our Mother, for this special grace.

POPE CONCLUDED WITH THE PRAYER OF THE: “Hail Mary...” 

The new Pope, Cardinal Robert Privost, was elected on May 8, 2025, taking the name Leo XIV. He made his first appearance wearing full papal regalia, including the cross of the shepherd, in contrast to his predecessor's simpler style. The election coincided with several significant feast days in the Catholic calendar, including those of Our Lady of Pompeii and St. Michael the Archangel. Carolina notes that Cardinal Prevost was not among the popular candidates initially considered for the papacy.

Speaking about Pope Leo the XIVth Universal Outlook: The speakers discussed the election of Pope Leo XIV, an American cardinal formerly known as Robert Prevost. Madame Germain, speaking from Congo, expressed satisfaction with the new Pope's universal outlook and conservative values, which align with African church expectations. The Italian media is analyzing the political implications of an American Pope in relation to the US President Donald J Trump. Both Madame Germain and Carolina highlighted the Pope's emphasis on peace in his first address, interpreting it as a call for global peace and his role as a neutral mediator. The Pope's first homily focused on the Church's role in illuminating the world and addressing practical atheism among Christians.

PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE WORK OF THE MISSION OF HOPE AND MERCY BY GOING ON LINE AND DONATING AT: https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/your-support-matters/

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The speakers mentioned that out of 252 cardinals, only 135 are eligible to vote, and one cardinal has removed himself from voting at the request of the late Pope Francis. They also mentioned a sick cardinal who may not be able to participate. The speaker highlighted that the principle of voting is based on age, with cardinals under 80 years old being eligible to vote. They concluded by noting that the Church is aging and that the voice of the people is considered the voice of God “Vox Populi Vox Dei”.

In the capacity according to which cardinals are voting for the new pope, cardinals from around the world, including Europe, the United States, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, China, and Asia, will gather in Rome to vote for the new Pope. However, they are not voting for the Pope, but for the Bishop of Rome who becomes by nature of his election the Pope. More so in the process of the election it is the people of Rome who will ultimately have a voice in this election through the voting cardinals who each one of them is a titular of a parish in the Diocese of Rome. Each cardinal is assigned to a specific parish in the diocese of Rome, and they will consult with the people in their parishes before entering the conclave. The conclave is a liturgical event, not an election, and the cardinals will not discuss names amongst themselves. The new Pope will be the Bishop of Rome, the Vicar of Christ, the successor of Peter, the shepherd of the Catholic Church, and the head of the Vatican.

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In the meeting, the Center welcomed everyone to a Sunday of divine mercy and discussed the funeral of Pope Francis. They highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it was a moment of unity and shared experience for the Christian community. They also mentioned the presence of various world leaders at the funeral, regardless of their beliefs. The discussion concluded with the observation that the funeral was a victory for Christianity, as the Pope was buried with the dignity of an apostle.

Cardinal Re's Homily and the Next Pope
The discussion revolves around Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, a 91-year-old Vatican official who has served under multiple popes for nearly 50 years. Center mentions several popes from the past 50 years, including Paul VI, John Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis, noting that all of these popes served after Vatican II. Carolina suggests that the key to understanding who might become the next pope can be found in Cardinal Re's homily, which was delivered during Pope Francis' funeral.

Understanding the Key to the Next Pope's Identity
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the significance of the homily delivered by Cardinal Giovanni Batista Re during the funeral of Pope Francis. They highlighted the importance of understanding the key to the next Pope's identity, which they believe lies in the homily. They emphasized the need for the Church to continue its progressive movement while maintaining its Catholic identity. They also mentioned the need for the Church to adapt to modern times and serve the poor and marginalized.

Catholic Church Modernization and Pope Francis

Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the importance of the Catholic Church's modernization, emphasizing the need for the new Pope to continue the path set by Pope Francis. They also touched on the health of Pope Francis, who was nearly pronounced dead in February but chose to return to the Vatican to spend his last days.

Pope Francis' Life, Death, and Legacy
During the Show, Fr Andre and Carolina discussed the life and death of Pope Francis. They highlighted his human approach, his connection with the people, and his unique personality. They also mentioned his final moments, where he was surrounded by his flock and passed away peacefully. Carolina shared her experience of the Pope's funeral, describing it as a moment of unity and shared grief. She said that the Pope died uniquely in the image of the “Nonno- Grandpa” of the world whose home is now Saint Peter Basilica and the Piazza of Saint Peter where the Pope went on the last day of his death. The conversation ended with a call to follow the mission of hope and mercy and a prayer for the soul of Pope Francis.

Pope Francis's Actions and Death
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed Pope Francis's actions, particularly his decision to open the Basilica of St. Peter to the homeless and share bread with them. They noted that this was a significant event, similar to what Pope Francis did at the beginning of his ministry. They also mentioned Pope Francis's death, which was sudden and unexpected, and how it was a just death, as he had spent the day following the footsteps of his Lord and giving his life for his people.

Pope Francis' Burial and Papacy
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the burial of Pope Francis at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome. They highlighted Pope Francis' unique approach to his papacy, his preference for living in Santa Marta rather than the Vatican, and his desire to be buried in the church. They also touched on Pope Francis' role as the shepherd of the people of Rome and the Catholic Church. Fr Andre expressed interest in hosting Carolina again to discuss the upcoming conclave and the election of a new Pope. They ended the conversation with a prayer for Pope Francis' soul and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the College of Cardinals.

Begin forwarded message:

From: Meeting Summary with AI Companion <no-reply@zoom.us>
Subject: Meeting Summary for Center For Blessings Our Lady of Hope's Zoom Meeting
Date: April 26, 2025 at 10:14:00 PM GMT+3
To: centerforblessings@gmail.com

Meeting summary for Center For Blessings Our Lady of Hope's Zoom Meeting (04/26/2025)Quick recap
The participants discussed the upcoming Divine Mercy Sunday and the funeral of Pope Francis, highlighting its significance as a moment of unity for the Christian community. They also discussed the potential key to understanding the next Pope's identity, which they believe lies in Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re's homily during Pope Francis' funeral. The conversation ended with a discussion on Pope Francis' actions, his burial at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome, and the importance of the Catholic Church's modernization. 
Next steps
Next steps were not generated due to insufficient transcript.
SummaryRecording Session Preparation and Prayer
The participants prepare for a recording session, discussing technical aspects and inviting others to join. They briefly mention the upcoming Divine Mercy Sunday. Father André leads a short prayer countdown before starting the recording, ending with "Christ is risen, Christ is truly present."

Pope Francis Funeral: Unity and Victory- A Birth of the New Era of a Church in the World.
In the meeting, the Center welcomed everyone to a Sunday of divine mercy and discussed the funeral of Pope Francis. They highlighted the significance of the event, noting that it was a moment of unity and shared experience for the Christian community. They also mentioned the presence of various world leaders at the funeral, regardless of their beliefs. The discussion concluded with the observation that the funeral was a victory for Christianity, as the Pope was buried with the dignity of an apostle.

Cardinal Re's Homily and the Next Pope
The discussion revolves around Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, a 91-year-old Vatican official who has served under multiple popes for nearly 50 years. Center mentions several popes from the past 50 years, including Paul VI, John Paul I, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis, noting that all of these popes served after Vatican II. Carolina suggests that the key to understanding who might become the next pope can be found in Cardinal Re's homily, which was delivered during Pope Francis' funeral.

Understanding the Key to the Next Pope's Identity
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the significance of the homily delivered by Cardinal Giovanni Batista Re during the funeral of Pope Francis. They highlighted the importance of understanding the key to the next Pope's identity, which they believe lies in the homily. They emphasized the need for the Church to continue its progressive movement while maintaining its Catholic identity. They also mentioned the need for the Church to adapt to modern times and serve the poor and marginalized.

Catholic Church Modernization and Pope Francis

Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the importance of the Catholic Church's modernization, emphasizing the need for the new Pope to continue the path set by Pope Francis. They also touched on the health of Pope Francis, who was nearly pronounced dead in February but chose to return to the Vatican to spend his last days.

Pope Francis' Life, Death, and Legacy
During the Show, Fr Andre and Carolina discussed the life and death of Pope Francis. They highlighted his human approach, his connection with the people, and his unique personality. They also mentioned his final moments, where he was surrounded by his flock and passed away peacefully. Carolina shared her experience of the Pope's funeral, describing it as a moment of unity and shared grief. She said that the Pope died uniquely in the image of the “Nonno- Grandpa” of the world whose home is now Saint Peter Basilica and the Piazza of Saint Peter where the Pope went on the last day of his death. The conversation ended with a call to follow the mission of hope and mercy and a prayer for the soul of Pope Francis.

Pope Francis's Actions and Death
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed Pope Francis's actions, particularly his decision to open the Basilica of St. Peter to the homeless and share bread with them. They noted that this was a significant event, similar to what Pope Francis did at the beginning of his ministry. They also mentioned Pope Francis's death, which was sudden and unexpected, and how it was a just death, as he had spent the day following the footsteps of his Lord and giving his life for his people.

Pope Francis' Burial and Papacy
Carolina and Fr Andre discussed the burial of Pope Francis at the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome. They highlighted Pope Francis' unique approach to his papacy, his preference for living in Santa Marta rather than the Vatican, and his desire to be buried in the church. They also touched on Pope Francis' role as the shepherd of the people of Rome and the Catholic Church. Fr Andre expressed interest in hosting Carolina again to discuss the upcoming conclave and the election of a new Pope. They ended the conversation with a prayer for Pope Francis' soul and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the College of Cardinals.

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FEAST OF SAINT MARON IN THE EAST! Early Church Syriac Father and Patron of the Church 

On this Sunday, Fr Andre, through prayers and reflection, emphasized the importance of prayer and unity among the faithful, while Fr Andre shared stories from the early Church highlighting the power of faith and trust in the face of adversity. 

Fr Andre also discussed the significance of Prayers to the Most Precious Blood of Jesus Christ in these dark times, where there is a grave uphill battle between Good and evil, and also reminded the people from all Christian backgrounds about the importance of the Holy Rosary. On this Show, Fr. Andre explained the Joyful Mysteries and how they reflect the events of the New Testament in the Bible. He also emphasized the need for Christians in America to discern and take action against the perceived takeover of the Catholic Church by demonic forces. The conversation ended with a call for unity under the leadership of Jesus Christ and a prayer for protection, forgiveness, and everlasting life.

Fr Andre appealed to the listeners to support the work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy by visiting the following options: 

1- by logging on:

 www.missionofhopeandmercy.org 

Please after you donate, sing up to receive our regular emails to stay updated and engaged. 

2- Or  by visiting our special landing page at: 

https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/your-support-matters/

3- You can sign up also to our X Page (Twitter) by going on:

 https://x.com/missionofhm?s=21&t=ALOJG8qHjHYIKrkfxg4sRA

4- You may send checks and donations at any time to our physical address at: 

Mission of Hope and Mercy 2459 South Chase Lane, Lakewood Colorado 80227.

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From the Mission of Hope and Mercy in Medjugorje, Fr Andre spoke about the founding of the St. Sharbel’s Refugees and Guests House Project. Namely, about its vision and mission. Fr Andre also mentioned how important is the support of the community of the faithful and their donations are to assist in the cost of furnishing, renovation, and construction plans. 

At the repeated request of our Lady Queen of Peace, who warns that the last battle of satan is against marriage, family and the church, especially the young, the consecrated and the priesthood who come constantly under attack, the Mission of Hope and Mercy and its collaborators find it important to concretely address Our Lady’s Messages by creating an Epicenter an Oasis of Restoration and Peace focused on the original Holy Family and the first Christian community as the models for nurturing healing, joy and peace. 

The St. Sharbel House in Medugorje would be a Place to welcome, defend, protect, save, and promote the well-being of our most essential Christian faithful who are under attack and need our love and care, such as priests, family members, and catholic professionals who carry Christ into our Community. 

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• Father Andre to continue promoting the mission of hope and mercy through missionofhopeandmercy.org

• Deirdre to continue supporting priests and pilgrims in Medjugorje

• Listeners to practice the "5 stones" recommended by Our Lady: attending mass, reading the Bible, confession, praying the rosary, and fasting

• Americans to pray for and support the newly elected leadership

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The speakers mentioned that out of 252 cardinals, only 135 are eligible to vote, and one cardinal has removed himself from voting at the request of the late Pope Francis. They also mentioned a sick cardinal who may not be able to participate. The speaker highlighted that the principle of voting is based on age, with cardinals under 80 years old being eligible to vote. They concluded by noting that the Church is aging and that the voice of the people is considered the voice of God “Vox Populi Vox Dei”.

In the capacity according to which cardinals are voting for the new pope, cardinals from around the world, including Europe, the United States, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, China, and Asia, will gather in Rome to vote for the new Pope. However, they are not voting for the Pope, but for the Bishop of Rome who becomes by nature of his election the Pope. More so in the process of the election it is the people of Rome who will ultimately have a voice in this election through the voting cardinals who each one of them is a titular of a parish in the Diocese of Rome. Each cardinal is assigned to a specific parish in the diocese of Rome, and they will consult with the people in their parishes before entering the conclave. The conclave is a liturgical event, not an election, and the cardinals will not discuss names amongst themselves. The new Pope will be the Bishop of Rome, the Vicar of Christ, the successor of Peter, the shepherd of the Catholic Church, and the head of the Vatican.

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(Psalm 2)

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and listeners to the show. Let us pray and seek God’s protection over us first of all on this good holy day of Sunday.

God, come to my assistance.
— Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
— as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia. 

My friends, today’ message is to pray for the United States embraces our spiritual destiny and come to the defense of the faith, hope and love in Christ Jesus Our Lord. 

What does God has to do with the American Nation? Today, America is facing an existential question that will define its existence, role in the world and its place in the final judgment of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, when He comes in the fullness of His glory to judge all the nations of the world. Will America remain under the light of the Divine Providence as a Nation that is blessed amongst all the ? What is the destiny of America is not to restore peace in all the earth? These and more on Good Holy Sunday Morning with Fr Andre. 

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(Psalm 104)

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and listeners to the show. Let us pray and seek God’s protection over us first of all on this good holy day of Sunday.

God, come to my assistance.
— Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
— as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. Alleluia. 

My friends, today’ message is to pray for the United States to hear and do the Will of God. This is the what I call the year of the great challenge in which the United States is being asked: Oh America what did you do with your baptism? 

On this show we will try to identify how can we in the United stated give to Cesar what is due to Cesar and give to God what is due to God (Matthew 22:21). Also how can we as people in the United States still be a nation and a State under God. In what sense? How will the political and economic systems come under God? In what sense can our nation as a sovereign nation be under God? In all of this, what role does God want the United States to play amongst the nations of the world? God who is the God of love and life, God of peace and redemption, God of power and might, the God of the poor and the rich, God of Justice and Truth, what is His part in the destiny of the United States of America? There are many other questions to be asked. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to come upon us and guide us as we reflect upon these questions in order to serve better the Will of God which is love and mercy itself on this Holy Sunday Morning. First let us pray! 

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Symbols of peace and signs of grace for the new year 

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and listeners to the show. 

Happy and Merry Christmas to all.

My dear friends, The new year has began. It is coming with many hopes and aspirations. At the same time, there are unhappy predictions about this year as well. 

As Christians and as people of faith, we always look to sanctify the time. We also become ourselves symbols of peace for others around us. We live in accordance with God’s Divine Law, we dwell with our brothers and sisters in peace and harmony, we preach peace and do works of peace with the poor and the needy. Consequently, we learn from the symbols of peace that God has put before our eyes in nature. For we learn from the olive branch, the dove, and the baptismal font how God has announced us with the grace of salvation and how He gave us peace and life in Jesus Christ our Lord. We cannot enter into the new year unless first we bring Jesus into it, and as the Lord of all Times, Jesus Himself offers himself for our sake, in order to make us grow with Him, as the way, the truth and the life to the Father in Heaven. 

At this new year, I pray strongly that people focus again on installing peace and groins in the love of God and the Neighbour.  What are the signs of Divine Grace that I like us to think about this year? Remember we are loved. Remember we have been forgiven. Remember we have been now sent as herald of good news into the entire world to preach the Gospel of Life and Peace of . Let our resolution be this: to testify before others about the truth of Jesus Christ the only Son of God, and to do works of peace that are pleasing to God almighty. Amen. 

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Christmas is a Time during which the Eternal Glory of God has entered into our Human Life in the flesh! 

(Isaiah 41: 1-20)

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and listeners to the show. 

Happy and Merry Christmas to all.

My dear friends, Tis’ the Day before Christmas: It is Christmas Eve, Merry Christmas to you all! I am exceptionally recording this show live on Christmas Eve, while I am in a big truck, loaded with gifts to the children in villages and towns in South Lebanon. Yes, along with two volunteers, and under severe weather conditions, some bombing going on, we are going to deliver to churches in South Lebanon around 700 Christmas gifts to be distributed to many many children across the Tyre Diocese and the High Galilee area. Pray for us I want you to know that I love you all. I am most thankful to all of our donors and contributors in the US, in Colorado who are making this Christmas Miracle happen. Our Truck is called: God is Love. We are driving it uncovered, under rain, and high wind, because of security reasons we are not allowed to take a hard covered truck, out of fear it will be bombed. 

OnThursday Dec 21, I met with over 600  including a little girl: Ella Tannous, now 9 years old. Ella is a Christmas Miracle child who was hit by a deadly virus shortly after birth. 

Unfortunately, due to a medical mistake, Ella ended up losing both her hands and feet. What was left of her is her head and central body. With this, Ella sings, and gives testimony to Christ that it is because of Him that she is still alive. 

Ella made Jesus a song in which she tells him that she lives through Him, and will always speak of His Love and Mercy and that she encourages children all over the world not to lose faith in God when times are hard, but instead to turn to Him knowing that He is the true and only Savior! 

Mission of Hope and Mercy gave Ella and another 600 children their Christmas gifts in a big parade. 

It was a privilege to share with Ella in a very social way a smart robot doll and a headphone, which reads books to Ella, types her words for her, allows her to listen to music and communicate through words, actions and creativity. 

Ella also paints with her mouth and lips and she also has an amazing voice with which she glorifies God and made a song to Jesus! 

I am privileged to have given Ella and another 600 children their Christmas gifts in these 2 days! 

Ok behalf of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, I am most thankful to all of our donors,  benefactors and people who support us! 

I urge and ask you, before the end of the year to continue your support and to help us realize more Christmas miracles in bringing food, medication and education to thousands of families in Lebanon, all because of your support. 

I ask for your prayers. Earlier today, Christmas Eve I went to local hospital to give sick children their Christmas gifts. Now, I am heading to the South of Lebanon despite danger along with few members of my Team of the Mission of Hope and Mercy. Pray for us as we are trying to deliver around 700 Christmas gifts to Children in the Region of the historical and Biblical Tyre, all the way to High Galilee and Mount Hermon. 

I like to share with you our experience when we visited the sick children in the hospital: Members of my team of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, a Christmas band and myself, visited local hospital in Jbeil- Byblos Lebanon. Yes I did finally sing all my favorite Christmas Carols, greeted all visitors, distributed Christmas Gifts to the sick children and visiting children, children in the pediatric emergency. We also distributed chocolate and candies to all the members of the medical body, nurses, doctors, families and visitors! I am most thankful to all the American donors of the Mission of Hope and Mercy for allowing me to do this on your behalf! I love you all!  

I am now on my way to South Lebanon, carrying around 700 Christmas gifts to children across the villages of Lebanon’s southern borders. We will meet the priests from many towns, they will carry the gifts to the children of their parishes the night of Christmas Eve!  God bless you all, pray for us please for safety! I wish you all a very Merry Christmas

God bless you 

Fr Andre Y Sebastian Mahanna 

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(Psalm 29 )

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and listeners to the show. 

Happy Advent Season to all.

My dear friends, 

MISSION DELIVERED AND PEOPLE RECEIVED: 

On Thursday Dec 7- 2023, the Mayor of Rmeich, along with his team of volunteers, the priest of the village and in coordination with the Maronite Eparchy (Diocese) of Tyre have distributed 400 food boxes to the families of Rmeich and neighboring villages. 

Mission of Hope and Mercy delivered and the People have Received! Thanks to all our donors, contributors, Mission’s Staff and volunteers and all prayer groups who support us. 

In total until now, 500 food boxes containing 8 tons of food that is 13 thousand food items were delivered and distributed to the families in South Lebanon. 400 Food boxes were sent to support the town of Rmeich and 100 Food boxes were sent to Al-Qlaia Town in High Galilee to support families in the Diocese of Tyre.

MORE FOOD AND THE CHRISTMAS DRIVE

It is what we argue doing next, and here is how you can help: 

We have already ordered 600 Food boxes. This is Phase 2 and it will be filled at the Center for Blessings and ready for distribution mainly in south Lebanon by Thursday Dec 14- 2023. Each box weighs around 17KLG this time. There will be 27 Items per box. In deliverables, this Campaign of the Second Phase will include a total 10200KLG (over 10 us tons), and 16200 Food Items. 

IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS: 

We do need your help and support in our upcoming CHRISTMAS DRIVE. This Christmas Drive will cover 2000 children and around 800 families, including teachers and students with Christmas gifts for children and food for families. It will include South and throughout Lebanon. Children will include Syrian refugees, orphans as well as children and families from throughout Lebanon. We are also we are most appreciative to all of our donors for the great assistance in achieving this campaign. Thank you for all your help. I love to leave you with this photo album of today’s Food Distribution from  Rmeich Town, a the largest Christian Lebanese Southern Border Town. www.Missionofhopeandmercy.org

At the Occasion of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary

Let us pray: 

“At her conception Mary received a blessing from the Lord and loving kindness from God her savior.

Psalm 24
The Lord’s entry into his temple
Christ opened heaven for us in the manhood he assumed (St. Irenaeus).

The Lord’s is the earth and its fullness,
the world and all its peoples.
It is he who set it on the seas;
on the waters he made it firm.

Who shall climb the mountain of the Lord?
Who shall stand in his holy place?
The man with clean hands and pure heart,
who desires not worthless things,
who has not sworn so as to deceive his neighbor.

He shall receive blessings from the Lord
and reward from the God who saves him.
Such are the men who seek him,
seek the face of the God of Jacob.

O gates, lift high your heads;
grow higher, ancient doors.
Let him enter, the king of glory!

Who is the king of glory?
The Lord, the mighty, the valiant,
the Lord, the valiant in war.

O gates, lift high your heads;
grow higher, ancient doors.
Let him enter, the king of glory!

Who is he, the king of glory?
He, the Lord of armies,
he is the king of glory.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:
— as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.  

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Happy Thanksgiving Colorado , Happy Thanksgiving America, Happy Thanksgiving from Lebanon, and Thanks be to God for allowing us the celebration of all that is good in creation. One of my favorite invocations as a prayer is to exclaim: Praised be the Most holy Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, now and forever Amen!

You know one of the most amazing special times I cherished and I came to know and adore since I moved to the US back in late 90s is the celebration of Thanksgiving tradition. It is a family tradition. It is filled with family warmth, beauty, culture, traditions, games, and best of all is the food at Thanksgiving. My little secret to share is that I like to keep eating the bread stuffing and turkey for a full week after Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is also a feast during which we in America make plans to come home. We plan our Christmas decorations, our Christmas gifts and our Christmas gatherings. Many of us start experience the rush of late shopping and get some adrenaline going as we get stock inside airports, or eating for loved ones to come home…and at the end I pray all will make it on time for the family gathering. One of the most amazing things at Thanksgiving is that every family gets to celebrate it in a unique and different way. This is not to forget the night before Thanksgiving: it is such an important night where many utilize that evening to prep things up for the Day of Thanksgiving. Waking up early morning and kicking off the day with a brisk turkey trot whether for a fun run, or half a marathon of for charity purpose… to come back home and smelling the best aroma of grandma’s kitchen preparing all the goodies that go along with a slow roasted turkey. One of my favorite fun activities after a good meal is when I get to sit, pray, thank God for all the good things God has created and to sit after that and watch the best of all times American Traditional movies even black and white. Also watching the most famous tv series for the dozen times every year feels as new as always. We learn from Thanksgiving, we learn our American Identity of family that thanks, a family that shows gratitude, a family that gathers , prays, share meal and think of others.     

Looking at the unique meaning of Thanksgiving, I see how families sometimes use this time to teach our children appreciation and gratitude. This is very important value of Thanksgiving. Is to learn the best ways to teach our children how to show appreciation and gratitude.  

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” says St. Paul in (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

The Book Psalm includes at least 22 references to giving thanks! King David is a great example of one who gives Thanks to God even when he is suffering hardship and tribulations. It is indeed a great sign of great love and trust in God when King David in Psalm 23 exclaims: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters; 

3 he restores my soul.
He leads me in right paths
    for his name’s sake.

4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
    I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff—
    they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
    my whole life long.

This is why my friends gratitude is so important for us in life. And I am afraid that gratitude is a virtue and a a trait that we in the US we are loosing. We are losing not being grateful that we are born in the one of the best and strongest nations that humanity ever knew. And we seem to want to burn it to the ground with our bad attitudes of entitlement, hate, ignorance and selfishness. Of course not all of us, of course not most of us, bur enough number to distrust life and harmony of peace and accord in our society. The struggles in life usually happen from people who are selfish and entitled. Let us take great care of life, of God’s creation, of our families, let us be thankful for our freedom. Let us thank God for our faith. Let us thank God for the numerous and immense possibilities we are given in this country to grow and prosper, to procreate, to develop, to progress and advance in life, to live freely and still experience peace and some sort of economic stability. More so let us be thankful for the facts that we have the best schools if we chose to; we have the most advanced hospitals if we chose to; we have the best economic establishments if we know how to share and distribute little of what God has given us; we have the freedom to practice our faith, if we stop slipping into the slippery slope of indoctrination and the culture of death; we are thankful that virtue, faith, freedom and family are gifts from God that are still holding in our nation and we have to keep them holding up even stronger until a greater hope and a higher support cometh us from above and from better leaders with whom we can reach our spiritual destiny as “one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”. 

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“What happens if the conspiracy of the nations is faced with the Anger of God? The Way to Preserve Life (Psalm 2)

Good holy Sunday morning my dear friends, and listeners to the show. What happens if the conspiracy of the nations is faced with the Anger of God? What will be the Way to preserve life? This is this morning’s conversation which I look forward to share with you. This morning we have a friend of the show and a special guest: Dr Julian Dunraven, a constitutional lawyer. He has been with us on this show many times before now.  

For those of us who believe in the Bible, both Old and New Testament, the Holy Land, is Sacred, and it is where God decided to send His Only Begotten Son our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to be born from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary. This is the place where our redemption took place, where the tomb of Jesus Christ is, where the Temple of Jerusalem was, and its foundation is still there, and where the people of God where told by God: Go to the Land that I gave your ancestors.  

Dr Dunraven will explain to us the reality of the forceful marriage between some powerful nations who all decided to ignore the religious foundation that is behind any geopolitical agreement or commitment. This is why the religious struggle between Hamas and Israel goes beyond history itself. 

A murderer cannot coexist with civilization. If life is to continue life protects itself from death. Jews, Christians and Muslims they must put life again in the foundation of their political, religious, cultural, economic and humanitarian aspirations. Otherwise they could be calling for the wrath and anger of God. The holy land begins with holy people. The holy land is a destination where God knew there life will be protected through the mean of peace. This is why Jerusalem is the City of Peace, and this is why it was there that Jesus as the Son of God gave up His Life freely in order to save the human life. By His death he destroyed animosity and destroyed death. Nations cannot be unaware of this if nations want peace.  

The Holy Land this is what we will be talking about today. What is the Holy Land? What is so special about it that Land so that “The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” (Genesis 12:1)?

Jews, Christians and Muslims instead of focusing on the terrible destruction that war might bring disasters, violence and death to the world they need to focus on peace. They need to pray for peace, speak words of peace and do acts of peace. 

HERE SOME EXCERPTS ABOUT OUR CONVERSATION ON THE RADIO SHOW FOR THIS SUNDAY ON KNUS: 

THE WORK OF THE MISSION OF HOPE AND MERCY IN LEBANON

This is what the Mission of Hope and Mercy is doing in Lebanon. We are focusing  on the things the Lebanese need to prepare in case of war: extra food, extra water, extra supplies, a remote location for shelter. We are focusing on the idea that perhaps God also wants to teach us bravery and resilience as Christ demonstrated by forgiving our enemies and pardoning people who did harm us for a better life and a better peace. 

THE HOLY LAND AND GEOPOLITICS  

In my conversation with Dr. Julian Dunraven, I discuss the consequences of facing the conspiracy of nations with God's anger, and how to preserve life in such a scenario. I discussed the significance of the Holy Land as a geographical place and its connection to the history of God's chosen people. I prayed for divine assistance, citing Psalm 2 to seek God's help in the present geopolitical conflicts. In this context, I appeal for aid for Christian families in Lebanon and South Lebanon.

HATE CRIMES AND THEIR JUSTIFICATION IN RELIGION

Dr. Julian Dunraven argues that hate crimes are a form of thought policing and should be challenged constitutionally. 

Fr. Andre Mahanna and Dr. Julian Dunraven discuss the concept of hate and its relationship to religion, with Mahanna questioning whether hate could be justified by a religious vocation. 

Hamm argues that while hate can be useful in fighting injustice, any religion that tries to justify annihilating another living being solely based on their identity is out of alignment with truth and civilization. 

HAMAS AND ISRAEL CONFLICT

Hamas's religious ideology is rooted in a violent and genocidal view of Judaism, while Israel's response is more driven by political and security concerns. 

Dr. Julian Dunraven and myself discussed the response of Muslims in the US to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a focus on the sensitivity towards the Holocaust and the call for recognition of Palestinian rights. Hamas uses human shields and innocent lives to further their goals, not a legitimate freedom fighting organization. 

MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT AND RELIGIOUS IMPLICATIONS

In my conversation with Dr. Julian Dunraven, we discussed the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, I am frustrated towards Hamas and Israel, whose behavior might drag world into an apocalyptic war people started calling it: third world war. In the meanwhile, Dr Dunraven argued that the Biden administration's actions have contributed to the escalation of violence. Dr. Julian Dunraven argues that Israel's actions in certain circumstances tend to become risky and incompatible with civilization and that the children of Yahweh (Christians, Jews, and Muslims) must learn to tolerate each other. 

In the end, I pray for the nations to learn from God's justice, mercy, and truth, and for the officials running for public offices in the United States to accept the Illumination of Conscience, and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas, make peace on earth according to God’s Will. 

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APPEAL FOR HELP: Mission of Hope and Mercy has been asked to assist people in the South of Lebanon. Some major Christian towns are in need for immediate help and assistance. Food, medication, back packs in case of having to escape, winter clothing and some emergency kits are needed. 

We appeal to you all for your help. We are planning to assist a minimum of 300 families in the South of Lebanon with food and medications. 

Please visit our website for donations at www.missionofhopeandmercy.org 

You may also send us donations at out physical address in Lakewood Colorado  at 2459 South Chase Lane, Lakewood Colorado, 80227

You may email us at info@missionofhopeandmercy to know more how you can help. 

God bless you 

Fr Andre and the Mission of Hope and Mercy teams in the US and Lebanon. 

ON THIS SHOW: 

Good Holy Sunday Morning my dear friends, dear listeners, my dear American people in whose hands God has entrusted a lot and from us He will demand a lot. 

Unfortunately This Sunday, we have to mourn. We have to mourn finding out that Hamas and its affiliate really wanted to annihilate the Jewish people from the face of the earth. 

We have to mourn the explosion of the Baptist Hospital in Gaza;

We have to mourn the stabbing to death of the Palestinian child in Illinois and his mother who is in the hospital;

We have to mourn the bombing of the Orthodox Church inside Gaza, and the many home and people who died;

We have to mourn most of all, the attack against the innocent people who inside Israel on October 7th, when they were celebrating the peace in Music and dance, over 1400 of them were slaughtered and killed. 

We have to mourn the many hostages that Hamas still has and do not want to return;

We have to mourn that many of the Palestinian people have to evacuates their homes, or are left because of Hamas under the threat of being bombed and killed, or without food and medication. 

This is not God’Will. In fact, if this is the intention of Hamas or anyone else that in the name of religion or in the name of any disguised secular doctrine made of hate you want to justify evil, I have news for you: You are fighting against God. And we know in the Bible what happens to those who fight against God. 

In this regard, I like to remind us of the Wisdom of a great Jewish rabbi: Gamaliel who in the Acts of the Apostles chapter 5: 38-39, when many of the Pharisees and the Jewish Rabbis were fighting agains the newly established church, rose and told the other Jewish Rabbis: “ Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”  (Acts 5:38-39)

Therefore it is good to use our common wisdom, to humble ourselves and put concrete and reachable goals to ourselves. God will oppose and will destroy every evil goal. Hamas cannot destroy Israel. This fight is not between human beings but from the devil. This fight is not between a particular nation against another nation, but it is the kingdom of satan trying to rise against the Kingdom of God. We know who wins in the End: GOD and His Kingdom. 

So I am afraid my friends, that there could be a horrible and horrific evil dimension in this attack of Hamas against Israel. The monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam are being weaponized and we must STOP NOW and we must TRUN TO GOD NOW. This battle unless it ends up finding a way to serve the righteous cause of the Palestinians, and to accept and welcome the Jewish people and accept them in the Holy Land as their home and nation ,might end up causing major existential damages in the faith of all the children of Abraham: Jews, Christians and Muslims. This might be chapter 2 of a third world war, and all the people who believe in the ONE and TRUE GOD must be one and one on GOD’s SIDE. 

My message to you today, for any person of faith wether a Jew, Christian or Muslim, if you are trying to identify and claim your religious identity vis-a-vis what is happening in the Holy Land, I can tell you that there is one option for you to take if you are trying to act with conscience and under God’s Divine Will: is to take Jesus Christ’s Option of Pardon and Redeeming Love. Sooner or later you have to take this Jesus Christ’s Option if you want to have life and experience peace: you must forgive, even your enemy and you must denounce death. If you want the world to see peace, and to survive the nuclear winter, you must forgive your enemy and stop the treason plots against your bother and sister who are also children of Abraham. If you wish to stop the potential of a third world war who is using our religions in order to destroy you, and life, and who is using you as a weapon, you have to stop and pray to God with the Option of Christ: which is love of God and the neighbor and even the love of the enemy. This is Jesus Christ’s Option when he was nailed on the Cross, He looked to His Father in Heaven and said: “Father, forgive them their sins, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34) and consequently, there was life for all in HIM. Amen.

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Statement

Friday  October 13 -2023

Mission of Hope and Mercy

Observatory for Religious Freedom and Christian Persecution Desk in Lebanon: 

MEMO: ISRAELI- PALESTINIAN CONFLICT OCTOBER 8 - 2023

The Hamas Terrorist Attack against the Innocent

From the start of the hostilities on October 7th, 2023, Father Andre Mahanna, President of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, along with the Director of Strategic Communication, have conducted open meetings with security advisors in Lebanon. They have been in touch with various key Lebanese officials, US public officials, advocacy and research centers, and key Lebanese media desks in order to track the dangerous escalation happening in Israel and the Palestinian Territories and how it will affect the Christians and the innocent people in Lebanon. 

It is sad to say that all evil possibilities are on the table. No one almost is talking about peace anymore. It is obvious that this war is about the right to exist for Israel. Unfortunately, the cause of the people of Palestine has been severely damaged by the terrible evil terrorist attack of Hamas on on over 1200 innocent Israeli civilians who all have perished, hundreds of them in a cold blooded massacre. Over 50 children have been slaughtered by hamas and their affiliates. 

In the midst of this escalating situation between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, it is important to know that Hamas sympathizers and partners, in Lebanon and Syria are threatening to open all fronts against Israel. Since last night, rockets started to get launched against Israel from the Golan Heights and from the South of Lebanon. It is crucial for us to realize that for years now, the sovereign will of the majority of the people of Lebanon, has been totally oppressed. Almost no one in Lebanon at this point, not even the Lebanese Government who for over a year now did not succeed to elect a president, the only Christian president in the Middle East.

God help all the good and innocent people in the Region. Our concern at this point is this: the US and the West continue to fail to understand the complexity of the religious nature of the conflicts in Eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Especially in the contests of the Ukrainian-Russian war, the Nigerian persecution and many other African nations of the Christians, and the Israeli-Palestinian-Iranian wars. 

It is time to admit and accept that at the bottom of all these fights, leading world humanities and governments have all failed in giving proper and deep consideration to religious and existential  identities and complexities of humanity in world Conflicts between people and nations. 

As a consequence to the failure of the West in not understanding nor wanting to accept, admit and treat with good faith the religious nature of of these problems especially in today’s geopolitical hot places in the world, today the US, the West from Australia, Canada, Europe, to the Middle East, Asia, Africa and all the world, will experience unfortunate waves of terrible antisemitism, the rise of religious dogmas that preach and practices terrorism, persecution of Christians, and the continuous rise of of false secular values that want to destroy every hope in having peace, justice, life and prosperity. All this might lead more and more to a Global War, nuclear by measures, massive by destruction, and evil by its nature. What we saw happened last Saturday is an insult to the most advanced military and security technologies. They were supposed to have prevented such a ferocious attack from happening and they failed. 

I have interviewed few expert friends of mine, another journalist earlier this week to discuss with them the possibility of the breaking through the fence and here what I gathered from them in my discussion:  

“Two perspective about the fence: 

The first one comes from an Israeli commander who served at the Kerem Shalom Battalion, who knows the area in detail.

His opinion was: Something here doesn't add up to me!!! This is a mystery that I can't find an answer to since yesterday?

I happen to know how things work in Gaza and on the border. I was the commander of the … in Refeh. He also worked in the Kissuf sector. This Israeli commander knows the perimeter fence very well. He for sure knows how the army works there. As a commander, he actually was in the Shatti refugee camp in Gaza. He worked in high place in Jibaliya refugee camp. This commander knows all about ambushes on the fence and deep in the area. As we say of someone who is so familiar with the region and its people: “he met Gazans, ate and breathed Gaza”.

So I asked to know how is this Obstacle built? 

His response was that the obstacle is built so that even a fox cannot pass it:

Set alerts according to 3 levels of pressure. She must alert when she is cut. There are 24/7 forces that are responsible for arriving within a few minutes, if not seconds, to the point where there is an alert in the fence. 

Every day do at least one penetration practice. Each subdivision has a standby squad whose role is to increase the force in an emergency situation. Observations scattered along the border cover every inch of it. The female observers are champions in identification. They don't miss. They detect movement even before it even approaches the obstacle - day and night. At problematic points (dead areas) they place a tank with observation and detection capabilities, and a terrifying firepower. In some cases snipers are deployed in the field.

Every day before dawn there is a "dawn alert" procedure. At this hour all the forces are awake (in this case also the hour when hundreds of terrorists entered Israel). The night shift alternates with the day shift. The commander of each force inspects the axis to make sure there were no infiltrations during the night. Trackers that move on the axis know how to recognize traces. They know who crossed the fence, how much and even when.

Each scenario has a clear procedure. For example, a procedure for infiltrating terrorists, a procedure for taking hostages. Everything is written in blood and has been proving itself for years.

There are several other layers of security that this is not the place to talk about. In short, we are talking about an obstacle that proves itself for years and years.

So how the heck does a Hamas tractor move towards the fence without anyone reacting to it?

How did the tractor manage to sabotage the fence for a long hour and open access to Israel without anyone reacting to it?

How did hundreds of Hamas terrorists and civilians cross the barrier without anyone on our side lifting a finger?

How did terrorists arrive on foot and in vehicles, armed from head to toe, to dozens of Israeli settlements, without any reaction from our side?

How did hundreds of terrorists stay in Israeli territory for long hours, shoot hundreds of Israelis, loot property, without there being even a single reaction on our side?

How did it happen that hundreds of terrorists kidnapped dozens of Israelis, (the first day there was news that the number of Israeli citizens who are missing is around 750 people). The terrorist of Hamas woke women, children, babies, old people from their beds, surprised soldiers, officers when they were not ready, and kidnapped them to Gaza, without anyone stopping them?

How is it that one bullet was not fired?

How did all this happen under our noses?

Where did an entire division go?

Where did 3 brigades go?

Who swallowed 9 battalions?

What happened to 36 companies?

Where did an entire regular infantry brigade go that usually outnumbers the elite?

Where were all the reserve battalions that augment the regular army?

Where did thousands of soldiers go???

Someone here needs to provide explanations!!

In fact, the Israeli Government has said today before this sow started, that they will investigate all of this but this is not the time. Now is the time they return the hostages to their homes and secure the citizens of Israel and take out Hamas terrorists. 

That is one opinion. And the second is from a former General as well and we have common friend and his comment on the same question about how is it at all possible to break through the fence into Israel with all the security and technology that there is in place? Remember we are talking about a fence that cost around one billion and hundred million dollars.  

His comments could be summarized with the following: “No…yes, there was a cyber attack but this goes much higher up. The guess of our former general is that at this point only if there was some type of a stand down order given. 

The former general is very familiar wit the border. He has visited the bunkers. He has been in the towers, along the fence, at the key gates entering Gaza, in the prison in Ashkelon and have walked the streets of Yderot. 

When I asked him about the first opinion to whether or not the fence was really this secure he responded: this assessment above is accurate but there are physical patrols and other tactical surveillance capabilities that even a good hacker couldn’t keep from working. The only way for this to happen at this scale is someone very close inside the inner circle had to have issued some type of order. The Israeli government should investigate. That will start the process of getting to the bottom of this. 

Both opinions concluded saying in a very alarming way that “in the meantime, we’re moving toward WWIII and the USMIL is woefully unprepared.” 

My question here is this: are we even prepared as Americans to understand the gravity of this existential danger on us? Our children? And Our future?  

On the other hand, the world saw how the terrorist attackers were using in the face of these most advanced technologies of weapons and security systems, very traditional iron tools such as knives and swords, just as if the world is still living in the times of barbarism and archaic human history. 

This is an insult, a sarcasm, and an evil cult that wanted to slaughter and kill in a cold blooded way people treating them like animals. This is disgusting and unacceptable. 

The worse part will be if the West continues to abstain from admitting to understand the religious roots and the hate indoctrination and complexity which is a world wide threat and they are not lifting a finger to do something about it. 

It is a fact, today more than anytime before: the future of peace, life, freedom, faith, families and prosperity sits on the personal conscience of al world and government leaders. They must listen to the initiative of Peace from Heaven. To kill in the face of killers will produce more evil. It will not end it.because evil too rises from death in order to kill. This is totally the opposite of what Christ does and did: he died once and for all so that all of us will have pardon of sins and eternal life.

This is the best time in the US that we rise in a revolution of love and pardon, and to reawaken all the values of our judeo-Christian faith of Faith, Hope and Love and to stand against all those  who oppress the true faith in God, the God of life, Justice, Peace, Righteousness and of Mercy. 

This is now the time for us as people of faith in the United States to rise to our spiritual destiny and to seek now the deepest and most authentic religious values of our Judeo-Christian faiths in God to stand united in the face of terrorism and the existential hate against the jews and to stop the persecution against Christians. It is time for wonderful Muslim leaders and community in the USA to once again and in a heroic way to stand against the use of violence in the Name of God.

This horrific terrorist attack done by Hamas must be rejected by all: jews, christians and muslims in the US. And al of us as the Children of Abraham should walk, pray and work together to stop antisemitism for it is not a joke, it is deadly, to stop the persecution against the Christians for it killed in 2000 years over 80 million christians in the world and to fight against Islamophobia and all cultures of hate for all of us are the children of Abraham, and al of us we deserve to live in Peace, Love and Co-existence together as the Children of the God of Love and Life. 

On Saturday October 7th, Hamas, Kataeb Al Qassam, and Palestinian militants numbering over 2000, launched an unprecedented military attack against Israel. This heinous assault was called: TOUFAN EL AQSA- (the Flood of Al Aqsa). The assault came as the Israeli people were celebrating the Liturgical Festivities related to the conclusion of the annual cycle of the public reading of the Torah called: Simchat Torah, and the feast of the Sukkot, which commemorates the dependency of the people of God, who liberated them from slavery and from the hand of Pharaoh. This feast is known in the New Testament to be also be celebrated by Jesus and the apostles.  There, it was called the Feast of the Tabernacles. During this time, the Jewish people turn away from materialism, go on pilgrimages, and practice pardon and hospitality. 

The Mission of Hope and Mercy vehemently denounces the use of violence against innocent people in Israel. One day ago, the Israeli military found over 100 dead, mutilated bodies of people who were all executed by Hamas. Approximately 44 babies and young children were found either beheaded or shot and mutilated. This is horrifyingly inhumane. Committing massacres during sacred times (or any other time) cannot be the way Palestinian people who claim just cause would like to defend their national and human rights of existence. 

It is a well-known reality that the solution for the Israeli-Palestinian wars and conflicts cannot be addressed nor solved without looking at the religious-ethnic complexities of the history of the people, or without facing the deep religious injuries for both groups head on.  

This war is existential and the danger has risen to an apocalyptic scale. There are those seeking extermination of whole groups of other people. We must avoid this extreme evil at all cost.

We weep for the human loss of life; for the over 1200 Israeli citizens who were massacred by Hamas. We weep for the innocent victims among the Palestinian people who are also suffering as a result of the terrorist attack initiated by Hamas. Once the evil terrorists are totally taken out, it is our hope that Israel and the Palestinian people both know that the future of the peace process for the world is now literally depending on their courage and spiritual strength. We need them to take the Christ Option and not the Samson Option: Christ said: “Father, Forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”, while Samson brought down the Temple on himself and his enemies. 

We raise prayers to Almighty God to heal the wounded, to free those who were captured, and to console the families who have experienced heavy losses in this conflict.

We urge the leaders of Israel, Saudi Arabia, leaders of the nations of the Middle East and the international community to continue their commitment to win peace. The terrorism of Hamas must be condemned by all. Reasonable and accountable diplomatic recognition between the Arab world and Israel must include practical laws and concrete measures which disallow God’s will being used as justification for killing others, and it must include the right of the Jewish people to live and exist in peace and freedom.  That right must be protected, and all forms of terrorism and hate ideology must be crushed. 

We invite the leaders of the Arab world to hear the pleas of the majority of the people in the Middle East who fervently desire to live the reality of equal rights, equal opportunities and equal protection for all the children of Abraham. 

The Middle East cannot be antisemitic. The Middle East can no longer harbor terrorism nor be the place for evil ideologies that use God in order to kill their fellow human beings. People in the Middle East want to love one another and abide by law and order.  

We ask all members of the Abrahamic Accord to bring real achievements and to work on a true Divinely inspired, accepted peace in the region. It is our hope, that despite this assault, Israel, Saudi Arabia and the leaders of the Middle East can find immediate diplomatic solutions and implement measures in order to protect the security of Israel and to solve the rightful problems of the Palestinian people. 

The timing of this assault was religiously and politically motivated by hate.  It is not acceptable. This is terrorism and it is not a right of defense.  It is pure evil. This attack does not please God and cannot be justified. It is an insult to religion, to religious freedom and to human rights. This cannot happen again. 

Politically, this assault is a dark slap to the Israel-Saudi Arabia dialogue during which they committed to finding diplomatic solutions for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A few weeks ago, the Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Ben Salman told the world that in the heart of the dialogue with Israel is his care and commitment to solving the Palestinian problem and to insure the rights and the protection of the Palestinian people. Such an assault is alarming to the entire Arab World. It negatively impacts the integrity, the sincerity, the honor and commitment of the Arab world to peace, coexistence and religious freedom.  Religious terrorism such as that practiced by Hamas, poses a threat to Islam itself more than any other religion in the Middle East or the world. 

We pray, in this context, for wisdom and that the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and the members of the Arab world governments, who have the moral authority and noble characteristics made of bedrock Arab values of faith, honor, trust, hospitality, respect and education will give a proper response to address the consequences of this terrible attack.

We invite all people to pray today. Let us pray for peace and healing. May God inspire all active religious leaders, members of civil society, human rights groups and people of faith from the Jewish, Christian and Muslim world to confirm healing and peace and to fight and stop all forms of terrorism. 

May Almighty God bless us all, protect us from all evil, forgive us our sins, and bring us all to everlasting peace and life. 

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Good Holy Sunday Morning my dearly beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ, now and forever Amen. 

In the recent days, friends of mine in a different state attended a social joyful gathering. It happened that when my name was introduced in the conversation my friend was surprised to hear what was the reaction of that other person who commented saying: “Don’t tell me that this is the priest who is on the radio? I listen to his show I love his show”… 

In the recent months, it seems that the show is getting good attention from people in colorado and beyond. I get news that people actually are taking deeper interest in our radio shows! This is a sign of success and responsibility at the same time. Consequently, this is an indicator that our listeners are following up the work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy and want to contribute. Also on a lighter note, this means that listeners have a good taste and are in search for what is profound and good and they are finding satisfaction in our radio show. We thank God for that gift. 

I want to thank you for being such well informed, and interested friends who are seeking how to move forward in this life with God in the fullness of Faith, Hope and Love. Well the key is how to pass this work of building the kingdom of God onto our children. How to make them realize that the blessings they have in their lives are all coming from God and Jesus is their Savior and true friend. 

We at the Mission of Hope and Mercy count on you to be apostles of the love of God to the neighbor. We count on you to be the disciples who can open doors, convince minds, and invite people to show solidarity with the persecuted by becoming members of our Mission’s donors. We aLeo want many amongst us to Grow with courage and deep conviction to become advocates for our cause and for religious freedom and the rights of the Christians to live and practice our faith in God and to grow according to His Divine Law. 

As a reminder, our show is here for you to confirm in your hearts, and the hearts of all the listeners the truth, joy, peace and validity of our faith in Jesus Christ. We do this by telling small stories inspired by the works of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, which cares for the persecuted Christians. We try to alarm people about issues of intolerance, discrimination and oppression which we it seems now we also in United States are facing. Bringing these tough matters before our eyes and into our ears, we try to stop all forms of persecution that Christians and other people of good will are suffering from in Lebanon and the greater Region of the Middle East. 

I want to thank the sponsors and the donors who help us afford these radio shows which are a major part of our Awareness and Education programs.  Such programs help us move closer to each other in order to grow more in solidarity and to find concrete ways of helping each others across oceans. The US has a big lofty branch of the church and we have this unique opportunity on this radio show to go back and visit remotely our people in Lebanon, in the Middle East where the story of Jesus Christ all began. 

With this, we aim to bring us and them more hope and light and to stand united as shielded children of the Kingdom of God, the Mystical Body of Christ against the powers of darkness. 

Many times, especially when there are aggressive attacks against me or you, we are invited to sit in full mediation and to contemplate what is God trying to tell us? Where is He? What is He doing? Or why is He Silent? 

It has become a sad fact to see that in a particular way the powers of the evil one are coming through Judas’ like type of people: betrayal and traps. People who you think they are consecrated, people in the ministry, even clergy, spiritual leaders we find them more and more unfortunately fitting the description of Jesus when he warned of false shepherds who are wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing. 

It is my greatest fear today that the hierarchical direction of the main institutions of organized Christian communities in the world, could be abusing their offices and not doing the will of God for the sheep but their own ill will. 

This hurtful realty amongst Christians today in the world, seems to give way to further the division and deepen the attack of the church, the mystical body of Christ over all. 

What can God do with a weak and infiltrated Christianity? This is what we do not know. 

What we know is that Jesus said the the gates of hell shall not prevail against it in Matthew 16:16. He also said that it is a reality that scandals and carriers of scandals will occur. But what is the real scandal here? I think we have to discern as we are guided by the Holy Spirit a deeper and much scarier meaning and reality of what the true scandal is: betrayal and traps. These are happening and no one dare to even talk about it. The loss of faith, the betrayal of the brothers and sisters, and the commerce of religiosity.  

Many times it occurs to me that when I followed Jesus Christ I became totally  ownerless of my own destiny. I don’t even know where my life is going but I know who I have given my life to: Jesus Christ and you, his flock my brothers and sisters. 

Many times I feel powerless, not having a voice, doubting the certainty of God’s love for me… this is at least how the experience seems to be perceived but it is not true. God is with us no one can be against us. 

Because of Jesus Christ, like many in the world I am led to the slaughter like sheep every day, and do not open my mouth. Woe to superiors who might have become themselves the accusers not the image of the Divine Father of Mercy and Truth.  Consequently, I realize that they have  gone against God’s Will for us. They will be punished. God will not be silent anymore.

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The Cross and Our Lady: 2 SIGNS OF FAITH THAT ARE BEING CONTRADICTED. They both indicate the DESTINATION OF THE CHURCH and the Call for ALL THE NATIONS to accept Salvation in Jesus Christ. 

Written by Fr. A-Sebastian Mahanna

Praised be the Most Holy Name of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ now and forever Amen! Halleluia! Happy Feast Day of the holy Cross. On September 14, Christians in the world, celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Did you know that the Cross is a major relic in Christianity? The Cross along with many other things are known in the history of Christianity to be called: the Relics of Jesus Christ. 

These were the elements, tools, things that they connect directly to Jesus. Christians searched for these relics and considered them to be a source of a major blessing, and a source of an extraordinary power in which presence many miracles would happen, cities would be protected, huge armies will be defeated and plagues will disappear. 

So what are the relics of Jesus Christ? These material traces or artifacts that means a lot in the life of Jesus and which became sacred Relics are: the Holy Cross, the Holy Nails, the Longinus Spear, the Pillar of Scourging, the Veil of Manoppello, (or the veil of Veronica), the Sudarium of Oviedo or of the Holy Cloth that covers the face of Jesus in the Tomb, the Shroud of Turin, the Relics of Aachen (Germany- where Charlemagne history tells us collected a second shroud for Jesus from the Patriarch of Jerusalem in 799 A.D. where according to Jewish Customs of the burial of the dead when they took down from the Cross the body of Jesus he was so bloody they had to put him in the first linen to clean up the blood ), the Crown of Thorns, and the Holy Coat…. Nations and kingdoms had fights against one another because of the mysterious power and the theological value of these relics. Their validation is an instrumental part of validating the Incarnation of the Lord. Not only this, but also we have Jesus’ manger in which He was born in Betlehem today in one of Rome’s most prominent Basilicas of Santa Maria Maggiore. This and more, bring us to our today’s radio show of Good Holy Sunday Morning With Fr Andre but first let us pray: 

The Royal Banner forward goes, 

The mystic Cross refulgent glows:
Where He, in Flesh, flesh who made,
Upon the Tree of pain is laid.

O Cross! all hail! sole hope, abide
With us now in this Passion-tide:
New grace in pious hearts implant,
And pardon to the guilty grant.

Thee, mighty Trinity! One God!
Let every living creature laud;
Whom by the Cross Thou dost deliver, AMEN. 

This was the Hymn for the Holy Cross called: Vexilla Regis or the Royal Banner!

It was first chanted in while a big procession took place on November 19- in the Year 569 A.D. Emperor Justin II sent a relic of the True wood of the Holy Cross to do a historical procession from Tour to Poitier, France.

After 627 A.D. Patriarch Zachariah of Jerusalem, the Wood of the Cross and thousands of Christians returned to Jerusalem from exile in Persia for about 18 years. King Heraclius had launched a war to return them to the holy City. Patriarch Zachariah received the king in the Holy City and venerated the Holy Wood of the Cross walking to the Anastasia or the Place of the Crucifixion, death, burial and Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

Before all of this, after 313 A.D., Emperor Constantine the Great in honor of the victory he received in the miracle of the Cross which appeared in the sky telling him that “In hoc signo vinces, which in Greek is: ἐν τούτῳ νίκα” (in touto nika) which literally means: win with this) History tells us that he sent his mother queen Helen to the Middle East to look for the true wood of the Cross of Christ.

In fact for the first 3 centuries, Christians were mostly talking about martyrdom and not as much about the theology of Jesus Christ. Hundreds of thousands of Christians throughout the both the Roman Empire and the Persian Empire were living under ground. Millions of Christians throughout both the Roman and the Persian Empire were severely persecuted, and hundreds of thousands of them were killed as martyrs for their faith. During that time of terrible suffering, the love for the Holy Cross and Our Lady grew a lot in both the East and the West. 

Consequently, The Cross and Our Lady: became since that time 2 SIGNS OF the FAITH in Christ. Yet both became CONTRADICTED. Muslim conquests would attack christians accusing them that they worship a wood. Christians would get divided in the world around the person and role of the Virgin Mary, Mother of God as the subject of veneration, or simply a regular favored person in the life of Christ even though He came through her virginal womb. Yet while both, the Cross and Our Lady raised contradictions both inside and outside of Christianity, history tells us that they both indicated the DESTINATION OF THE CHURCH and the Call for ALL THE NATIONS to accept Salvation in Jesus Christ. It is not by coincidence that the Ship of Christopher Columbus who discovered the New world was called: Santa Maria. It is not by coincidence that since 1532, Our Lady of Guadalupe becomes the Patroness of the Americas and the Evangelizer of the natives form Mexico to the entire continent. It is not by coincidence that when the Gospel tells us about the few moments in which the Virgin Mary was mentioned in the Gospel the scene of Mary standing under the Foot of the Cross is what stands the most in the minds of all Christians during holy seek. 

My dear friends in the Lord Jesus Christ, I do invite you to pray with me and to read these verses from the Book of Wisdom. I am praying them every day. I want to share them with you at the end of our show (Wisdom 10:9-14)

Jacob and Joseph[a]

9 

But Wisdom rescued from tribulations
    those who served her.

10 

When the righteous man was fleeing from the anger of his brother,
    she steered him to straight paths.
She showed him the kingdom of God
    and bestowed upon him a knowledge of holy things.
She gave success to his labors
    and multiplied the fruit of his work.

11 

She aided him against the greed of his oppressors
    and made him a wealthy man.

12 

She protected him from his enemies
    and saved him from ambushers.
In his arduous struggle she brought him victory
    so that he might realize that piety[b] is more powerful than anything else.

13 

When the righteous man[c] was sold, Wisdom did not desert him,
    but she delivered him from sin.

14 

She descended with him into the dungeon,
    and she did not forsake him in his chains
until she had brought him a royal scepter
    and power over his adversaries.
She exposed the falsity of his accusers
    and bestowed on him everlasting glory.

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God’s Miracle of Multiplication of goods on Earth is founded on the Redemptive love of God that is in Christ Jesus and is the Foundation of God’s Divine Providence.

Special Guest: Fr Charbel Kosseifi, Friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy

In this Episode, I like to encourage you to be part of God’s Divine care for His People on Earth by supporting the work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy. The work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, like any other non for profit that does good work for people it serves, is founded by Divine Providence. God listens to the cries of the poor, God responds to the cries of the poor, the oppressed, and the needy in order to be always present in the midst of His People. It is both a privilege to be called to such a service, and a big cross at the same time that purifies our work and shows unfortunately the powers of evil so that God crushes it through the great power God shows through our love and care for one another. This is how God is glorified, when we stand in unity and support one another. So that when we are weak He is very strong and perfect, and when we seem to have become perplexed, God then comes to our rescue and crushes all evil that is wrestling with us. In such a way in our weakness we boast in the Power of God.

Not only we have been called to serve God in the face of the poor, the oppressed, the needy and the persecuted, we are called to be prophets of our times so that the Mystery of Redemption will renew its effects and reaches to the farthest point of earth all the way to the people who are forgotten and dwell in the darkness of the world. Sometimes, I think how the United States came to be born out of Divine providence and the love for freedom by people who were shipped for months in the waters of deep oceans and who would have thought that these people who were shipped to the margins of the world at that time, they now became the strongest nation on earth and the hope for many nations in the world.    

I like to remind us for those who may not know, that the United States of America’s Deceleration of Independence which was w unanimously approved and signed by US Congress on July 4th 1776, and was read publicly 4 days later for the first time on July 8th 1776, depended on the Divine Providence and the free will of the people of the United States in the forming 13 states at that time and not on any other human power or factor.  Here is what is said at the end of the Declaration: "with a firm reliance on the Protection of Divine Providence we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our Sacred Honor”.

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God’s Miracle of Multiplication of goods on Earth is seen in all aspects of the nature and beyond. Why does the world still experiences a settled economic recession and fear of depression! 

There’s enough food and money in the world to help all the needy. The problem is that not enough people and organizations want to make the effort to send the extra food to the needy, or to contribute financially to the needy. The problem today in the world is when big nations for just or not just reason they end up manipulating and weaponizing food, oil, gas and medication resources as part of a trade war to bring their enemies down. It ends up that the innocent people pay and starve, while their own regimes confiscate their goods and survive at the expense of the people. It is good to remember that we as a society in America, all can contribute in time, prayer, talent and treasure to assist in contributing to find solutions for hunger, for human health and to provide for people with basic needs. I like to address in a special way the wealthy potential contributors, to contribute each according to their means, and capabilities and care, for with people like you we can really make a big difference. Unfortunately, many people get caught up and disoriented with their daily distractions and this is another reason why many suffer in the world for their are living and dying without being noticed. The Mission of Hope and Mercy want to help all of us to remember these people and pray and stand in solidarity with them. As Americans I like to insists upon us that we should care about Lebanon; why? because it is an important foundation for christianity and the Christian way of life, it is our history, where our roots began, where the first prayers we said and written, where Jesus, Mary and the apostles were and all of this is part of our Judaeo- Christian Heritage for which we have the responsibility to protect and keep. 

I like to remind people who are able to give, of how good it feels to give to the needy. Imagine how when we give we carry that feeling with us throughout our work day and evening. How much better will we be able to do our work. How much more will we appreciate life. How much better will we treat our families. How much healthier will we feel and become.

On this Sunday’s show we shall speak about the multiplication of goods and the infinite richness of Divine Gifts as being the miracle of life. On the other hand, we shall look at the current economic situation in the world who according to international experts in economy is experiencing a settled rise in economic recession/depression. How is this manifested in food? Real Estate? Health Insurance? Medical Costs? Education? Housing? and Cost of Living?

Good Holy Sunday morning my dearly beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, our mission of Hope and Mercy family from around the world and all people of good will and concerned people with what is happening in the world today. 

Recently, I have allowed myself and due to very unique circumstances of my life to experience some sort of a “let go” into the hands of the Divine Providence. People of faith would ask: isn’t this what we are suppose to do every day of in our lives? To these lovely people I would respond: yes and a BIG NO. Yes, we need to let go into God’s Hands and always count on Divine Providence for this is our faith in God as the Divine Father, the provider for all mankind and the source of all blessings. So let us explore Divine Providence for a little bit: 

Well, in the easiest terms of theology and you can Wikipedia this of course, divine Providence of simply Providence refers to God intervention in the order of creation. God leads, guides and sees the general order of the universe. There is a day and there is night,  there is the sun, the moon, the stars, the planets, and other elements of the universe, there are seasons, there is water, wind, fire, earth, oxygen, trees, food, deserts, plains, rain, snow, heat, mountains, human life, animals, seas, oceans, sciences, cultures, civilizations, all forms of transportation, medicine, technology, good and evil, human will, black holes, the cosmos, and the universe… All of these function and exist according to a major order which according to both science and faith is governed and guided by a Supreme Transcendence or Being called: God. God runs the general order of things and this is what we call: the General Providence. When God intervenes in the life of human beings, such the sick, the vulnerable, the weary, the dejected, the unfortunate ones in an extraordinary way, shape or form, this intervention is considered a special Divine Providence known as Miracle. 

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Transfiguration of Jesus on the Mountain with Moses and Elijah “One day within your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere” (Psalm 84)

Special Guest: Gerard Abi Assaf, Vice President, Mission of Hope and Mercy.

RADIO SHOW Description

On this Sunday’s show we shall speak about the longing for God’s Temple. This means that all of humanity is invited and called to dwell and follow God’s Kingdom. The reality is that not all people do not all people believe. One could even declare that there are people who have committed themselves to hate God and his Kingdom, to destroy his followers and to not let anyone make it to Heaven if they can. Why? Because of the the evil one. On the other hand, for those who believe, how lovely it is to be living in God’s Holy House. Saint Paul says: “Here we do not have a lasting city; we seek a home that is yet to come (Hebrews 13:14).what does it mean to have no place to call home on earth, yet how can we trust that our home in Heaven is really where we will be. The mystery of redemption which we received through the redeeming love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the answer. The mystery of redemption is a big challenge to all legal, social and political systems in the world. For while the human civilization is busy with private property, assuming wealth and fighting for resources, Christianity proclaims that through meekness, spiritual poverty, and a child-like trust in God humanity will be saved. 

In his Encyclical Redemtoris Missio, or the Mission of Christ the Redeemer, Pope John Paul II regards all christians as missionaries in the world. He says: “The missionary is a person of the Beatitudes. Before sending out the Twelve to evangelize, Jesus, in his "missionary discourse" (cf. Mt 10), teaches them the paths of mission: poverty, meekness, acceptance of suffering and persecution, the desire for justice and peace, charity - in other words, the Beatitudes, lived out in the apostolic life (cf. Mt 5:1-12). By living the Beatitudes, the missionary experiences and shows concretely that the kingdom of God has already come, and that he has accepted it. The characteristic of every authentic missionary life is the inner joy that comes from faith. In a world tormented and oppressed by so many problems, a world tempted to pessimism, the one who proclaims the "Good News" must be a person who has found true hope in Christ. Pope John Paul II wrote Redemtoris Missio on December 7, 1990 to commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Conciliar Decree Ad Gentes of the Second Vatican Council. How is serving the persecuted, the dejected, the weary, the sick, the oppressed, the orphans, the widowed, the broken hearted, the sufferer, the meek could be an indication of the success of God’s plan? Why do we have to trust that but embracing suffering through the redeeming love of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, earns for us actually an entire Kingdom, a Heaven, and a Life Everlasting? Let us see how the work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy actually corresponds to the realization of the Kingdom of Heaven in the heart of the hungry, the sick, and the persecuted.    

What can you do to help the Mission of Hope and Mercy continue its work of supporting the persecuted Christians in the Middle East? I invite you to support the Center for Blessings which the Mission established in Lebanon to be its Epicenter in the Middle East to be the place for new hope for Lebanon and the Region. 

We have to remember that the Middle East is the birthplace for christianity. Recently it was reported the the Iraqi president does no longer recognizes the Chaldean Patriarch and he removed from him the diplomatic protection. Ever since, the Chaldean Patriarch Cardinal Louis Sago has become a target of possible assassination and an outlaw. He is on the run for his life and last it was reported that he has been hiding somewhere in Turkey. 

More news about this topic comes from the Chaldean Church council in Lebanon where Bishop Michel Kassarji, a very dear friend to the Mission of Hope and Mercy has issued a statement denouncing the actions of Iraqi President against the Chaldean Patriarch here it is: 

“BEIRUT — The Supreme Council of the Chaldean sect in Lebanon issued a statement Monday denouncing the Iraqi president's revocation of a 2013 decree protecting their Patriarch in Baghdad Louis Sako. The removal of the decree pushed Sako to leave his post earlier this month, and his functions are no longer recognized by the Iraqi government. The Council added in its statement Monday that the “recent unprecedented and dangerous events threaten the Christian presence" in the region. Before the American invasion of Iraq in 2003, there were 1.5 million Christians in the country. Christians gradually left the country, especially after the Islamic State’s attack on Christian villages in 2014. Today, there are only around 400,000 remaining Christians in the country. The Council also called for “an ecclesiastical, political and civil quick action to end the injustice that targeted the Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church Cardinal Louis Sako and protect his dignity.”

The decree revoked by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid had, according to the Council, no constitutional or legal basis. Nevertheless, Sako announced on July 15 that he will leave the Patriarchate in Baghdad and relocate to a monastery in the Kurdish autonomous region. 

Cardinal Sako has for months been in a political fight with the chief of the Babylon Movement Rayan al-Kildani. The Babylon Movement is a “Christian” party that is part of the Popular Mobilization Forces, which consists of multiple pro-Iranian groups. 

Sako accused Kildani of orchestrating the latest offensive against him. The now-revoked 2013 decree had served as a safety guarantee against the pro-Iranian groups. Lebanon counts 20,000 people belonging to the Chaldean Catholic sect, according to the website of the Chaldean church in the country. They are among Lebanon's 18 official religious sects.

Once more I invite all of my friends in the USA to remember to protect Lebanon as the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave for freedom seekers in the Middle East. This is the place from which the greatest revolution of love will begin, until the Peace of Christ covers all the peoples and nations of the earth. In 2015, the Mission of Hope and Mercy was founded, driven by the profound words of Pope John Paul II. In 1997, he had famously proclaimed, "Lebanon is more than a country. It is a powerful message of freedom and a shining example of pluralism, uniting East and West."

The Center for Blessings in Lebanon will serve as a powerful affirmation of the American people's solidarity with the Lebanese people and their dedication to supporting the Christian presence in Lebanon.

This Center will heal old wounds between the US and Lebanon and open up new avenues of mutual cooperation and advancement.

This Center will attract significant US investment and philanthropy and have a meaningful impact on the future of Lebanon and her people

This Center for Blessings is the fruit of these last seven years of generous support from our American donors and dedicated work by myself and countless volunteers. Together, we overcame challenges, endured hardships, and faced persecution. Through it all, we never lost sight of our mission: to create a humanitarian arc and faith-based bridge that connects the East and the West, transcending barriers of culture, nation, continent, color, religion, gender, and politics.

Guided by the two greatest commandments in the Bible, the love of God and the love of the neighbor, we have built a haven of hope and mercy. This is a place where all forms of life and peaceful civilizations can thrive, and where the power of love is the driving force.

At the end, let us remind ourselves of the beauty of psalm 84 in which a person is really longing for God’s Temple. 

So let us pray: 

Ant. 1 One day within your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.

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A Prayer in Distress: “Lord, make haste and answer; for my spirit fails within me” (Psalm 143)

RADIO SHOW Description

On this Sunday’ show we shall speak about  type of prayer that is found in the Bible both the Old and the New Testament. We are talking about the prayer in distress, or lamentation.

Special Guest: Julian Dunraven 

BIO:  Dr. Julian Dunraven is an adjunct professor of Law and Business at Arapahoe Community College. Prior to that, he spent seven years teaching Law at Altierus College teaching primarily Constitutional and Business Law, Austrian Economic theory, and Criminal Justice classes. In keeping with his interest in education, Dr. Dunraven served as a founding board member and as General Counsel for Freedom Trust, a nonprofit educational company dedicated to providing freedom-oriented education scholarships for graduate students, as well as offering liberty-based education forums in Political Science and Economics for K-12 and higher education students.  

In 2014, around August 6, over 50 thousand people in northern Iraq were forced to leave their villages, towns, and even the nation of Iraq. In 2020, on August 4th, 350 thousand people in Beirut Lebanon were directly affected by the Beirut seaport explosion. These people had to leave their homes, left even the city and many left the country. The casualties from the Beirut Explosion were 218 people killed, and 7000 people injured. Amongst the dead were people from various countries including nationals of Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Philippines, Pakistan, Palestine, the Netherlands, Canada, Germany, France, Australia, and the United States. The explosion was caused by the inadequate storage of 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate in the Port of Beirut. Beside the large number of loss of lives, The explosion also resulted in an estimated 300,000 people who became homeless. 40 thousand buildings were between midd to severely damaged, amongst which at least 8,000 buildings were damaged with severity, of which at least 640 were cultural heritage buildings. Due to the Beirut Explosion, Lebanon lost around 106 healthcare facilities among which 3 main hospitals for a while and 15,000 productive activities were brought to their knees, three uninhabitable hospitals, 178 schools damaged.

All of this needs a prayer in distress.

Today, the United States our own homeland is experiencing severe persecution, division, moral and ethical problems, and very severe divide in politics which is causing the polarization of the nation almost to an irreconcilable point of no return. 

Amongst the tragic incidents which took place in our country of the US this year alone we can talk about 39 mass shooting that took place leaving over 1200 people dead. There are baking temperatures in many places in the US, Europe, across the Middle East and Africa. The fight between Russia and Ukraine continues to demolish the possibilities for peace risking turning this war at any time into nuclear war. Besides this, the war is causing a massive movement of people going into a forced migration from inside Ukraine and many places in Russia. On the other hand, China continues to get bad international reviews on many fronts. On another front looking at disasters caused by nature, in 2023 1088 tornados were reported amongst which at least 887 tornados were confirmed in the US this year alone. All of this tell us that the US needs to raise a prayer in distress to Almighty God. 

According to “concernusa.org”, there are at least 8 ongoing worse humanitarian crisis in 2023. 

The website bases this list on figures provided by "UNOCHA’s 2023 Global Humanitarian Overview, which factors in the number of people in need of assistance, funding needed to meet that need, and the level of funding met for the year ahead.”

Concernusa defines a humanitarian crisis according to what the United Nations’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs also known as (OCHA) defines it. 

“The United Nations’ Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) defines a humanitarian crisis as “a singular event or a series of events that are threatening in terms of health, safety or well-being of a community or large group of people.” Consequently, we have to remember that many of these humanitarian crises in the world today are parts of or involve some degree of internal or international conflicts. This is only one of many factors to look at when we are to look at least 8 ongoing humanitarian crisis in 2023.

1.      The Horn of Africa: The current crisis in the Horn of Africa has left 36.4 million people across Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. Five consecutive failed rains have left the region facing the worst drought in four decades and extreme levels of hunger. The next rainy season, beginning in March of 2023, is also expected to fail.

2.      The Sahel: Ongoing violence in the Sahel escalated in 2022, with countries like Burkina Faso and Niger affected by new levels of conflict and insecurity. UN experts estimate that the situation will worsen in 2023, which OCHA has described as “the worst humanitarian needs in years.” Taking into account the full region — which includes  Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Niger and Nigeria — OCHA estimates approximately 34.8 million people require humanitarian assistance, and that an additional 3 million will require support this year.

3.      Democratic Republic of Congo: Increased violence in 2022 has added to a series of emergencies that make up the decades-long humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 27 million Congolese require humanitarian assistance — nearly a 38% increase in need compared to last year.

4.      Afghanistan: Afghanistan has been caught in conflict since 1978, meaning that several generations of Afghans have never known life without conflict and political instability. The current humanitarian situation in Afghanistan has left 24.1 million Afghans in need of humanitarian assistance, including 15.3 million children. 

5.      Yemen The Yemeni Civil War has, according to one UN estimate, has left nearly 80% of the country’s population in need of some form of assistance, and has damaged food systems, local infrastructure, the economy, and education prospects. 21.6 million people require humanitarian assistance. 12.9 million are children.

6.      Pakistan: The level of severity in Pakistan escalated in 2022 due in large part to last year’s floods, which affected 33 million people — roughly one out of every seven people in the country. The rains were the worst the country has faced since it began recording climate data in 1918. “The magnitude and scale of the destruction to the country cannot be underestimated,” said Sherzada Khan, Concern’s acting Country Director for Pakistan, last August. “We are responding to a very serious humanitarian situation.”

7.      Ukraine: On February 24, 2022, a long-simmering crisis in Ukraine escalated into violence with devastating impact. By mid-March, it became the site of one of the world’s largest refugee crises, with 7.9 million Ukrainians displaced abroad as refugees, and an additional 6.5 million displaced internally. As this renewed conflict approaches the one-year mark in February, it’s also entering what Concern’s Head of Emergency Operations, Ros O’Sullivan, describes as a “more stark” situation with winter conditions and both electricity and fuel shortages. UNOCHA estimates that 17.7 million people in Ukraine require humanitarian assistance. 

8.      Syria What began as a peaceful protest in 2011 has now become more than a decade of crisis in Syria — as well as one of the largest refugee crises in the world. The violence has not stopped, and millions of Syrians are displaced abroad (often with limited legal rights, resources, and language skills). More than 6.8 million Syrians are internally displaced, and 15.3 million require humanitarian aid — the highest amount of need since the conflict began. Syria is also one of the epicenters of the current cholera outbreak, one of the largest in recent history.

What can you do to help the Mission of Hope and Mercy continue its work of supporting the persecuted Christians in the Middle East? I invite you to support the Center for Blessings which the Mission established in Lebanon to be its Epicenter in the Middle East to be the place for new hope for Lebanon and the Region. 

We have to remember that the Middle East is the birthplace for christianity. Recently it was reported the the Iraqi president does no longer recognizes the Chaldean Patriarch and he removed from him the diplomatic protection. Ever since, the Chaldean Patriarch Cardinal Louis Sago has become a target of possible assassination and an outlaw. He is on the run for his life and last it was reported that he has been hiding somewhere in Turkey. 

More news about this topic comes from the Chaldean Church council in Lebanon where Bishop Michel Kassarji, a very dear friend to the Mission of Hope and Mercy has issued a statement denouncing the actions of Iraqi President against the Chaldean Patriarch here it is: 

“BEIRUT — The Supreme Council of the Chaldean sect in Lebanon issued a statement Monday denouncing the Iraqi president's revocation of a 2013 decree protecting their Patriarch in Baghdad Louis Sako. The removal of the decree pushed Sako to leave his post earlier this month, and his functions are no longer recognized by the Iraqi government. The Council added in its statement Monday that the “recent unprecedented and dangerous events threaten the Christian presence" in the region. Before the American invasion of Iraq in 2003, there were 1.5 million Christians in the country. Christians gradually left the country, especially after the Islamic State’s attack on Christian villages in 2014. Today, there are only around 400,000 remaining Christians in the country. The Council also called for “an ecclesiastical, political and civil quick action to end the injustice that targeted the Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church Cardinal Louis Sako and protect his dignity.”

The decree revoked by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid had, according to the Council, no constitutional or legal basis. Nevertheless, Sako announced on July 15 that he will leave the Patriarchate in Baghdad and relocate to a monastery in the Kurdish autonomous region. 

Cardinal Sako has for months been in a political fight with the chief of the Babylon Movement Rayan al-Kildani. The Babylon Movement is a “Christian” party that is part of the Popular Mobilization Forces, which consists of multiple pro-Iranian groups. 

Sako accused Kildani of orchestrating the latest offensive against him. The now-revoked 2013 decree had served as a safety guarantee against the pro-Iranian groups. Lebanon counts 20,000 people belonging to the Chaldean Catholic sect, according to the website of the Chaldean church in the country. They are among Lebanon's 18 official religious sects.

Once more I invite all of my friends in the USA to remember to protect Lebanon as the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave for freedom seekers in the Middle East. This is the place from which the greatest revolution of love will begin, until the Peace of Christ covers all the peoples and nations of the earth. In 2015, the Mission of Hope and Mercy was founded, driven by the profound words of Pope John Paul II. In 1997, he had famously proclaimed, "Lebanon is more than a country. It is a powerful message of freedom and a shining example of pluralism, uniting East and West."

The Center for Blessings in Lebanon will serve as a powerful affirmation of the American people's solidarity with the Lebanese people and their dedication to supporting the Christian presence in Lebanon.

This Center will heal old wounds between the US and Lebanon and open up new avenues of mutual cooperation and advancement.

This Center will attract significant US investment and philanthropy and have a meaningful impact on the future of Lebanon and her people

This Center for Blessings is the fruit of these last seven years of generous support from our American donors and dedicated work by myself and countless volunteers. Together, we overcame challenges, endured hardships, and faced persecution. Through it all, we never lost sight of our mission: to create a humanitarian arc and faith-based bridge that connects the East and the West, transcending barriers of culture, nation, continent, color, religion, gender, and politics.

Guided by the two greatest commandments in the Bible, the love of God and the love of the neighbor, we have built a haven of hope and mercy. This is a place where all forms of life and peaceful civilizations can thrive, and where the power of love is the driving force.

At the end, we all need to join David in his psalm 143 in which he addresses Almighty God in a prayer in distress. So let us pray: 

Ant. 1 At daybreak, be merciful to me, O Lord.

Psalm 143
Prayer in distress
A man is not justified by observance of the law but only through faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:16).

Lord, listen to my prayer:
turn your ear to my appeal.
You are faithful, you are just; give answer.
Do not call your servant to judgment
for no one is just in your sight.

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“I Count On You, O Lord: it is You, Lord God, who will answer” (Psalm 38)

RADIO SHOW Description 

Good Holy Sunday Morning my dear friends, listeners to the show, supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and people of good will. This Sunday, I like to announce to you the Inauguration of the Center For Blessings of Our Mission of Hope and Mercy in Lebanon. A Dream comes true. After 7 years of making impact, the Mission of Hope and Mercy establishes its Epicenter in the Middle East to be the place for new hope for Lebanon and the Region. This is the birthplace for christianity. This is the place from which the greatest revolution of love will begin, until the Peace of Christ covers all the peoples and nations of the earth. In 2015, the Mission of Hope and Mercy was founded, driven by the profound words of Pope John Paul II. In 1997, he had famously proclaimed, "Lebanon is more than a country. It is a powerful message of freedom and a shining example of pluralism, uniting East and West."

Every year since then, the Mission of Hope and Mercy, from our base in Colorado, has touched the lives of countless individuals who yearned for a safe place to call home and the means to support their families. Our many donors, predominantly from America, have offered their generous donations so that our many volunteers in Lebanon who worked tirelessly on the front lines could provide for essential needs like food, shelter, education, and safety.

Building upon this strong foundation, we are thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Center for Blessings, located in Halat, Lebanon, just north of Beirut, as the headquarters for our work in Lebanon. With great anticipation, we have welcomed the Lebanese people, local media, government officials, and individuals across the Middle East to this momentous inauguration event of the Center for Blessings, officially launching the work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy at its headquarter location in Lebanon.

This Center will serve as a powerful affirmation of the American people's solidarity with the Lebanese people and their dedication to supporting the Christian presence in Lebanon.

This Center will heal old wounds between the US and Lebanon and open up new avenues of mutual cooperation and advancement.

This Center will attract significant US investment and philanthropy and have a meaningful impact on the future of Lebanon and her people

.

This Center for Blessings is the fruit of these last seven years of generous support from our American donors and dedicated work by myself and countless volunteers. Together, we overcame challenges, endured hardships, and faced persecution. Through it all, we never lost sight of our mission: to create a humanitarian arc and faith-based bridge that connects the East and the West, transcending barriers of culture, nation, continent, color, religion, gender, and politics.

The Greatest Commandment.

34 When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together,

35and one of them [a scholar of the law]: tested him by asking, 36* Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?"

37. He said to him, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.

38This is the greatest and the first commandment.

1.The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

2.! The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.

Guided by these two greatest commandments in the Bible, we have built a haven of hope and mercy. This is a place where all forms of life and peaceful civilizations can thrive, and where the power of love is the driving force.

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“Do you love me more than these…”(John 21: 15)- Feasts of Saints Peter and Paul.

RADIO SHOW Description 

Good Holy Sunday Morning my dear friends, listeners to the show, supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and people of good will. 

Few days back, exactly on Thursday July 29, christians around the world celebrate the feastdays of Saints Peter and Paul. So Happy feast day to you all. In Syriac Symbolism, Peter and Paul, also know as “Fetrous W Fowlous”. What do their names mean? On this Sunday we learn about the life, vocation and testimony of Saints Peter and Paul who both loved Jesus Christ all the way to death. More than anything else, nd never feared not even death. The challenge the world has today is that hardly anyone is capable of love, true love, forgiving love, holy love, perfect love, a love that does not hate, that dos not lay 

snares for our friends, for our brothers and sisters, not even of our enemies. Christian love in in 

trouble in the world today. There is lots of hate, envy and jealousy around us. There are 

conspiracies against every good person, whether a lay person, a pastor, priest or a good bishop. 

All of us are being challenged not to give witness to Christ. Not to love our God and our 

neighbor, not to give testimony to Jesus Christ as the Only Son of the Living God. How can we 

defend love if we are not allowed to live it. People who try to do good, seem to become pursued, 

silenced, killed or fatly accused. Nonetheless the Plan of God goes forward and God arises for 

Him many knees who do not bow to the beast. How can help each others to fulfill the calling of 

of the apostles Peter and Paul? To allow ourselves to be guided by the Love of Christ, and to 

carry His Cross, to be the new apostles of the 21st century. To live the truth and guide people to 

the truth of love and mercy, justice and truth, peace and mercy, forgiveness of sins and 

reconciliation with one another and with God, love God and the neighbor, adore God in truth and 

in Spirit, reject al evil confusions and all evil ways, repent from sins, and do what is good and be 

participant in the Plan of God for the salvation of the world and therefore your life will be a 

sweet fragrant incense offered in unity with the sacrifice of Our Lord before the God of Heaven 

and Earth. 

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Preaching the Truth- Feast of the Birth of Saint John the Baptist.

RADIO SHOW Description 

Good Holy Sunday Morning my dear friends, listeners to the show, supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and people of good will. 

On today’s show we wish a Happy Saint John the Baptist Birthday for all those who seek the intercession of the last of the prophets. Saint John the Baptist came to prepare the way for the Lord. 

Isaiah 40:1-11

Comfort, O comfort my people,
says your God. 

Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and cry to her 

that she has served her term,
that her penalty is paid, 

that she has received from the Lord's hand
double for all her sins. 

A voice cries out:

“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord,
make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

Every valley shall be lifted up,
and every mountain and hill be made low;

the uneven ground shall become level,
and the rough places a plain.

Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,
and all people shall see it together,
for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

A voice says, “Cry out!”
And I said, “What shall I cry?”

All people are grass,
their constancy is like the flower of the field.

The grass withers, the flower fades,
when the breath of the Lord blows upon it;
surely the people are grass.

The grass withers, the flower fades;
but the word of our God will stand for ever.

Get you up to a high mountain,
O Zion, herald of good tidings;

lift up your voice with strength,
O Jerusalem, herald of good tidings,
lift it up, do not fear;

say to the cities of Judah,
“Here is your God!”

See, the Lord God comes with might,
and his arm rules for him;

his reward is with him,
and his recompense before him.

He will feed his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms,

and carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead the mother sheep.

Psalm 85 or 85:7-13

Benedixisti, Domine

1 [You have been gracious to your land, O Lord, *
you have restored the good fortune of Jacob.

2 You have forgiven the iniquity of your people *
and blotted out all their sins.

3 You have withdrawn all your fury *
and turned yourself from your wrathful indignation.

4 Restore us then, O God our Savior; *
let your anger depart from us.

5 Will you be displeased with us for ever? *
will you prolong your anger from age to age?

6 Will you not give us life again, *
that your people may rejoice in you?]

7 Show us your mercy, O Lord, *
and grant us your salvation.

8 I will listen to what the Lord God is saying, *
for he is speaking peace to his faithful people
and to those who turn their hearts to him.

9 Truly, his salvation is very near to those who fear him, *
that his glory may dwell in our land.

10 Mercy and truth have met together; *
righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

11 Truth shall spring up from the earth, *
and righteousness shall look down from heaven.

12 The Lord will indeed grant prosperity, *
and our land will yield its increase.

13 Righteousness shall go before him, *
and peace shall be a pathway for his feet.

John’s Biblical identity from genealogical perspective shows that he is related to Jesus, a cousin on Jesus’s mother’s side through Elisabeth. Let us look at the divine origin that through the Angel Gabriel gave the name to John while John was being conceived. The Angel announced to Zakaria in the temple the birth of a son he also said: " his name shall be John" even though no one in Zakaria’s family is called by that name. What is the meaning of John? It means God is gracious, tender, compassionate, has mercy and God is sending a gift to humanity with John’s birth: Yo-Ha-Non.  

In the Bible God calls adults by other names to give them a special mission. Like Abram and Sarai, became Abraham and Sarah: father of all roots, and the queen. Whereas John is not given a new mission as an adult, his mission was given to him at birth. So John is a vessel who carries the voice of God not only a man with a special vocation he is his vocation. So when Jesus says about John that he was the greater to be born amongst the children, Jesus meant that John is the prophet who prepares and makes straight the way of the Lord. 

The story of the name of John amassed the people of Judea as well. They made a  sign to zakaria, asking the father what the name of the new born child should be, zakaria responds: “John is his name” and they all wondered. Zakaria could have said “his name will be John” but instead he simply repeated what the angel in the temple had already declared because to him. It was the angel who named the child that that his name will be John.

Now let us move to the vocation of John the Baptist: “the voice of one crying in the wilderness:
Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight—” (Mark 1:3)

3 events took place which shaped the vocation of John the Baptist:

1- The Announcement to Zakaria of the birth of John: 

In Luke chapter 1:15, the Angel says about John: 

“for he will be great before the Lord,
and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink,
and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,
even from his mother’s womb.-“ It was the event of the Visitation of Mary, the Mother of Jesus our Lord, as the new Arc of the Covenant, where the filling of John the Baptist with the Holy Ghost took place. 

A deep theological consideration is worthy of our discernment and attention here: in the Event of the Visitation, Mary is seen by many fathers of the Church as the New Arc. Where in the Bible we could base our understanding of Mary as the New Arc? Well if we open the Book of Revelation, also known as the Book of the Apocalypse chapters 11:19 to chapter 12:1-2 

Here is what is says: “Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple; and there were flashes of lightning, loud noises, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail.12:1 “And a great portent appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars;2 she was with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth, in anguish for delivery.”

These are the indications inside the Bible that show that God works His Plan of Salvation from the conception of human life in Paradise, into the conception of special babies (John the Baptist and Jesus Christ the Savior) who by their special vocation make all babies saved by God and so special, in order to bless and save the sanctity of life in the Truth of the Love of God. And where does God execute His plan of Salvation?  in the heart of the family. 

This is what is so important: God did not plan his salvation nor did He announce it in an abstract of philosophical way:  but instead God simply announced and executed His Plan of salvation to preach the Truth, to announce the birth of the Savior, the incarnate of His Only Begotten Son, to Send down His Holy Spirit, to forgive all sins, to bring all people back to Him, to destroy all evil, to kill death itself, to bless life, and to make people enter into eternal life with Him… God did all of this inside the family, a normal family. It was worked in a family made of a barren old woman married to an old priest, and young virgin who has been betrothed to a righteous “Zedik”, man called Joseph, son of David. What a fantastic story to be told to all our children on a day like today: Sunday, the Day of the Lord.      

Something else to consider which is very holy and sacred: where was Zakaria informed of the birth of a son and what will his name be? It was in the Temple of Jerusalem where the Angel Gabriel announced John’s birth and gave him his name. The time was sacred, because the offering of the incense took place during the 2 most holy hours of the day: the Evening Sacrifice and the Morning Sacrifice. What did the incense symbolize? The incense mixture which was offered had symbols for all the days corresponding to the days of the year. The components of the incense combination came from the book of Exodus chapter 30:34, “where Moses is tasked with making incense: Take fragrant spices – gum resin, onycha and galbanum – and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts.” 

At the time of Zakaria, there were around 18 thousand priests in Israel. On daily bases there were about 50 priests in the Temple for the day’s activities. In the tribe of Abia which the tribe of Zakaria there were at least 250 people in his division. And only that one priest, the old Zakaria was chosen by lot to enter into the Holy Place of the incense and to minister at that altar of the incense, which is situated as the closest to the Holy of holies. More so, Gabriel gave the name of John to Zakaria at that holy place which is near the Holy of the Holies where the Tabernacle of the Covenant is situated at Throne known as the Mercy Seat. This says a lot about the sanctification of John the Baptist right next to the Holy of Holies. The birth of John the Baptist to an old priest and a barren old woman, was more Thant a miracle. It was a Divine ACT. 

2- The second event is the leaping of the child John while in the womb. As Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ how is the holy of holies, who is the bread of life, visited the old Elizabeth, now mother of John the Prophet and at the hearing of the greeting of Mart, as Elizabeth exclaimed: the child leaped for joy in his mother’s womb. We see here the arc of the covenant when David the king dancing (leaping out of joy) in the 2 book of Samuel chapter 6 before the arc of the Lord as the people Israel and the priests were taking the Arc of the covenant from the house of Obed Edon to Jerusalem. (2 Samuel 6:16): “As the ark of the Lord came into the city of David, Michal the daughter of Saul looked out of the window, and saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord;”

Now try to see this beautiful foreshadowing and typology between the event of Obed-Edon- The Arc of the Covenant- The Stay of three months- the leaping and dancing of David over night before the Arc and the event of the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth- the greeting of Mary-the leaping for joy of the baby John the Baptist in the Womb( is foreshadowed for David’s leaping)- and the stay of Mary and the baby Jesus in her womb for three months (is foreshadowed in the Arc staying at Obed-Edon for three months.

Let us read this story of the stay of the Arc at Obed-Edon in the 2nd Book of Samuel chapter 6: 10-15: “So David was not willing to take the ark of the Lord into the city of David; but David took it aside to the house of O′bed-e′dom the Gittite. 11 And the ark of the Lord remained in the house of O′bed-e′dom the Gittite three months; and the Lord blessed O′bed-e′dom and all his household.12 And it was told King David, “The Lord has blessed the household of O′bed-e′dom and all that belongs to him, because of the ark of God.” So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of O′bed-e′dom to the city of David with rejoicing; 13 and when those who bore the ark of the Lord had gone six paces, he sacrificed an ox and a fatling. 14 And David danced before the Lord with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod. 15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting, and with the sound of the horn.” 

God gives a new name in the womb vocation as a prophet is to make straight the way to the Lord.  

3- the vocation of John: John goes on to be a defender of the truth and he had the guts and the courage to defend the family when he stood in the face of Herod to tell him that he could not take his brother’s wife. John spoke well enough to the point that Herod wanted to listen to him. John also goes on was the baptizer to prepare the way of the Lord. In such a way he foreshadowed the baptism of the church, that truly forgives sins and fives the Holy Spirit.  

The challenge the world has today is that hardly anyone can speak the truth nonetheless to defend it. People who try to do good, seem to become pursued and silenced as John was. Nonetheless the Plan of God goes forward, and God arises for Him many knees who do not bow to the beast. How can help each other to fulfill the calling of John? Preach the truth, live the truth and guide people to the truth of love and mercy, justice and truth, peace and mercy, forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with one another and with God, love God and the neighbor, adore God in truth and in Spirit, reject all evil confusions and all evil ways, repent from sins, and do what is good and be participant in the Plan of God for the salvation of the world and therefore your life will be a sweet fragrant incense offered in unity with the sacrifice of Our Lord before the God of Heaven and Earth. 

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The Heart of the Father and the Kingdom of Peace and Reconciliation 

RADIO SHOW Description 

Good Holy Sunday Morning my dear friends, listeners to the show, supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and people of good will. 

On today’s show we wish a Happy Father’s Day to all fathers in the World. We will explore the identity and the role of the fathers. Jesus introduced God as Father and taught us to call HIM ABBA Father. In the history of Christianity, St. Joseph is presented as the figure of the father, custodian father who took care of the child Jesus and his Mother the Virgin Mary. In the history of religions and states, there is a special day to honor the father. This applies to religions as well as to cultures who honor the figure of the father. On this show, we will explore many of the Bible verses which reveal the Heart of the Father and His true Identity as God of Love, Creator of the world. Maker of mankind, and the planner of our salvation.

 The challenge the world has today is that the figure of the father has been injured or altered, or persecuted. Today in the world the values of what the father is traditionally known for have changed or in many instances that are no longer accepted by society. Is the role of the father sustainable in a world today where there is a gender crisis? These and other realities of our world, will be explored on this morning show. Yet first and last, we wish all a Happy Father’s Day. 

Let us conclude with the words of Saint John the apostle in his first letter and state: 

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. ” 1 John 3:1-2

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Holy Trinity Sunday: The Incorruptibility of the Saints is a reflection of the authority of Jesus over life and death. Special on the incorrupt body of Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster OSB

RADIO SHOW Description 

Special guests: John and Irene Sheerin, husband and wife, mom and dad to 4 children, grandpa and grandma to 14 grandchildren a good and very well informed  catholic couple from Kansas city whom I have known for years now. John and Irene are faithful citizens of our country, and a good example of the love of God and the neighbor. They are occasional visitors of the Benedictine Abbey of the Benedictine sisters of Mary Queen of the Apostles in Gower, Missouri where recently on May 18, 2023 the body of sister Wilhelmina and foundress of the abbey  who died 4 yeas ago was found incorrupt. We will hear from them as eye witnesses of this unique phenomenon which in catholic tradition is interpreted as a sign of holiness.   

It was at the Benedictines Sisters Abbey of Mary, Queen of the Apostles, a blogger wrote “When the Benedictine Sisters of Mary, Queen of the Apostles exhumed the body of their foundress Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster, OSB, on May 18, they found the unexpected: Four years after her death and burial in a simple wooden coffin, her body appeared remarkably well preserved." Catholic News Agency reported in May 0f 2023. Thousands of people have descended on the abbey to pray by Sister Wilhelmina's incorrupt body.” This Sunday is called of the Most Holy Trinity. It comes as the first Sunday after Pentecost Sunday in which the Holy Spirit came down and dwelled in the form of tongues of fire on the 12 apostles and the Virgin Mary. Today we explain the authority of Jesus who said in the Gospel of Matthew 28, 18b-19: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”

It is clear from the history of Christianity that the power and authority of Jesus still shows in the creation in many different ways and on all levels of existence and even beyond life itself. Let us observe the fantastic Revelation of Jesus’s authority after His Resurrection for instance: He would appear and doors are locked. He would eat and is not a ghost. In fact the apostles touched him and at least one of them put his finger in his wounds. Jesus spent at least 40 days with his apostles and disciples and explained to them the knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. Then Jesus asked the Father to send the Holy Spirit and when on the 50th day after Easter, the Holy Spirit came down and all of the apostles, “they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4). Then when Peter and the apostles were talking to the crowds in Jerusalem, people from all over the world from at least 16 regions and continents such as Asia, Europe, and Africa heard and each understood what Peter was saying in their own native language. So it is a fact that people who believed in Jesus, have accomplished acts of extraordinary power that no one can do unless God is with them. Jesus ordered that faith in Him and his Teaching to be promoted in all of the earth. He also asks that the world will be baptized in the Name of the Holy Trinity. Jesus founded the church in all of the world, made of all nations and speaking in all languages of the world. Jesus was the inspiration according to which laws, constitutions, governments systems, kingdoms and nations were founded. As a result, we see that the miracle of the faith in Jesus can make people stand against all forms of atrocities and remove darkness. In the history of religions and politics, over 88 million people were killed and received martyrdom because of their faith in Christ. How can people endure so much suffering and keep going, keep growing and be more bountiful in acts of good works of charity and mercy. Since 2015, The Mission of Hope and Mercy has been one of the promoters who gave witness to the power and authority of Jesus in the midst of world tormented by hate, wars, captivity, hunger, divisions and persecution against christians. Our call in the Name of Jesus was always to invite the United States of America to join its spiritual destiny and to stand in support of family, faith, freedom, peace and life. If we look at work of Christians in the world, despite all human difficulties and errors, betrayals, and misrepresentations, we see that the legacy of true Christians is that they only remedied a power of good in the world because of their faith in christ. If we count how many hospitals, schools, charity places, institutions of good work, universities, influential projects in all walks of life, miracles including incorrupt bodies of saints whose body refuse to decay as witness to the authority of life that Jesus has over death itself, and how many saints christians left in the world, one could immediately deduce that Christians are not only a power for good on earth, but that they are the rock which protects the world from darkness all the way to the fact that even faced with global wars, the gates of hell shall not prevail against the church. On the Sunday of the Holy Trinity, we see the secret that makes Christianity indestructible. It is because it has the full power of the Most Holy Trinity, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the One and Only God forever. The authority of Jesus seems to also affect sickness and death. We see this in the phenomenon of the death of the saints amongst whom many their bodies remain incorruptible. In the history of the church there are at least 250 saints whose bodies were incorrupt. 

What is this incorruptibility of the saints? According to romancatholicsaints.com “the Incorruptibles are saints whose bodies are miraculously preserved after death, defying the normal process of decomposition. St. Cecilia is probably the first saint known to be incorrupt, but the bodies of these saints can be found in many places throughout the world.

They are not like mummies, for their skin is soft and their limbs pliable, nothing at all like the dry, skeletal remains of mummies. Under usual circumstances, nothing at all has been done to preserve the bodies of these saints. In fact, some of them have been covered in quicklime, which should have easily destroyed any human remains, yet it has no effect of these saints. Many of them also give off a sweet, unearthly odor, and others produce blood or oils that defy any scientific explanation.

Modern science relegates the incorruptibles to the status of mummies, pretending it understands and can comfortably categorize these saints. How then do the scientists explain the fact that a year and a half after the death of St. Francis Xavier, a medical examiner placed a finger into one of the saint’s wounds and found fresh blood on his finger when he withdrew it? Or that when a finger was amputated from St. John of the Cross several months after his death, it was immediately observed that blood began to flow from the wound? Or the case of St. Nicholas of Tolentino, whose arms have frequently bled over the last 400 years?”. 

Recently, in Missouri, the body of Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster OSB, 1924-2019 (died at the age of 95 years old)

FOUNDRESS OF THE BENEDICTINES OF MARY,

QUEEN OF APOSTLES, was found incorrupt 4 years after her death. The abbey, (https://benedictinesofmary.org/srwilhelmina/) has posted a letter explaining the incident. A blogger has wrote “When the Benedictine Sisters of Mary, Queen of the Apostles exhumed the body of their foundress Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster, OSB, on May 18, they found the unexpected: Four years after her death and burial in a simple wooden coffin, her body appeared remarkably well preserved." Catholic News Agency reported in May 0f 2023. Thousands of people have descended on the abbey to pray by Sister Wilhelmina's incorrupt body.” It is obvious when a body of a saint is incorrupt, all christians and in fact all people of good will and people in need benefit from this miracle of Jesus through the life of the saints. Death has no power no more, and instead of being an obstacle to life, death becomes mystified and one could see the power and authority of Christ especially after careful investigation. 

According to CNA, (https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254444/sister-wilhelmina-body-place-in-glass-display-after-rosary-procession#:~:text=) in an article dating May 31, 2023 written by Joseph Bukuras, a journalist at the Catholic News Agency,    

“The local ordinary, Bishop Vann Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, has said that a “thorough investigation” is needed to answer “important questions” raised by the state of her body, but there has been no word on if or when such an analysis will take place.” 

In the death of the saints and as a unique sign known to God alone but seen by all men, God wills that through the incorruptibility of saints to manifest to all His Glory and the connection between the Holy Spirit and the renewal of the offsprings of mankind. Saints die on earth yet they become a sign for the eternal life and their bodies will not get corrupt. With this, Christ who has the authority over all creation will not allow the dust to consume nor to decay the bodies of the saints not even their clothing. This is the work of the Holy Spirit who renews the face of the earth. All christians receive the Holy Spirit at baptism and confirmation. Consequently all Christians have the antidote to death and the potential of eternal life in Jesus Christ. The United States seems now to have entered into the Mystery of God who through sister Wilhelmina seems to want to speak to the United States who is being occupied by materialism, socialistic ideologies, positivism, satanism, and even a culture of the flesh and death. What is the sign that God is trying to communicate with us? We wait and see how the Glory of God will unfold to chastise the evil doers, to give opportunity to people to repent, to console the hearts of the believers and to accomplish His Divine Will which is our salvation and peace. Sometimes the bodies of the saints are the most effective tool for evangelization that knows no limits and supersedes all forms of religions.

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RADIO SHOW Description: This Sunday marks the 50th day after the Sunday of Easter. It is called: Pentecost Sunday, or the Sunday on which the Holy Spirit came down and dwelled in the form of tongues of fire on the 12 apostles and the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus who was with them in the upper room in Jerusalem.  Fr Andre explores the identity, the gifts and the fruits of the Holy Spirit. What is the relationship of the Holy Spirit with the Creation and the renewal of the creation? In fact we could speak of an earlier moment similar to Pentecost right before the Incarnation of Jesus. It is when the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and told her in Luke chapter 1:35: (NASB1995) “The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.”” 

It is for this reason that in the early church, Mary is called: “The Spouse of the Spirit”. What is the connection between the Holy Spirit and the renewal of the offsprings of mankind? What is the connection between the Holy Spirit and the renewal of the face of the earth? Jesus introduces the Holy Spirit as the Advocate, the Paraclete, the Defender and Consoler. Jesus also called the Holy Spirit the Spirit of the Father. The Holy Spirit inspires and give fortitude to the martyrs to give witness and testimony for the Kingdom of Heaven before nations and leaders of the world. The Holy Spirit is what Christians all receive at the r time of baptism and confirmation. With the numbers of Christian baptisms going down,

What role does the Holy Spirit play between faith and reason in the critical sense of christians who try to reconcile between empirical knowledge and the knowledge of the Divine Mysteries of Heaven? Can Christianity today in the world survive between the contrast of faith and reason?Can the leaders of the church today be inspired by the Holy Spirit while the church administration seems to get more and more relative to cultures and educational systems of nations in which the church is growing? How can we pray to the Holy Spirit in order to prevent that Christians will not suffer confusion and does not lose the vision of Heaven? Can Christianity today coexist in a society that is returning to magic, satanic worships and rejection of the Spirit of God? 

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RADIO SHOW Description: On this Sunday, inspired by the feast of Saint Christopher Magallanes, priest and companions, martyrs during the Cristero war in Mexico between 1917 and 1927, Fr Andre explores the religious meaning of war against the faith. The ranks of the angels in Heaven, are called the Host of Heaven. Are there warrior angels? How do they operate? What keeps the faith going on earth? Are the martyrs part of the war that is going on between the Kingdom of Heaven and satan and his legions? Why do persecution still happen despite the trillions of Angles in Heaven? According to the Catholic Divine Office On-Line,  “Saint Christopher (1869 – 1927) (also known as Saint Cristóbal Magallanes Jara) was a parish priest in his hometown of Totatiche, Jalisco, Mexico. On fire to capture the hearts of the local Huichol peoples, Saint Christopher opened schools, trade shops, and helped organize the town water supply. In 1917, Mexico edited its constitution and included anti-clerical language. A massive uprising ensued resulting in the Cristero War. Saint Christopher remained faithful during this turbulent time and, along with 21 other priests and three laymen, was killed for continuing to minister in the rural communities. These Cristero martyrs were canonized in 2000. [1][2]

Written by Sarah Ciotti
[1] “St. Christopher Magallanes and Companions,” Catholic News Agency (2012).
[2] Pope John Paul II, “Homily,” May 21, 2000.
Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate these Saints as you worship Christ.”

Can Christianity today in the world survive with this much animosity sourrounding it? Can the leaders of the church prevent that Christians will not suffer from this magnitude of authorities which attacks over 350 million christians in the world?  Looking at the one year anniversary of the stoning to death of young Deborah Emmanuel, in Nigeria last year on May 12, 2022, a young christian college student who was brutally killed accused by Muslim students with blasphemy, can Christianity today coexist in a society that allows the murder of people because of their faith? 

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On this Sunday, inspired by psalm 118, Fr Andre explores the contradictions between the Day of the Lord and our days as human beings. This verse from psalm 118, is very famous and christians from the various traditions have been repeating the chanting of this psalm for centuries and since early christianity. It is a very deep psalm, has been written not for good circumstances but in fact it was written during times of trials and difficulties for the people of God. In the days where evil was being uttered against the people of God, David expresses his trust and full faith in God of Goodness by proclaiming the “Day of the Lord”, which is the day in which the Messiah comes to take over the city, to declare his kingdom, and to deliver his people from all evil. In such a way, christians have to trust in God that despite the world’s persecution against all the faithful in Christ, the Day of the Lord is a day of rejoicing and victory over all evil and over death itself. Despite the suffering, betrayal, evil, wars, deceptions, sadness, sickness, famine and death, the Day of the Lord is a GOOD DAY. A Day of consolation. The Day of the Lord covers all of the human history. This is what Jesus says: I am the alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. This is Christ, the Lord of life, to whom has been given all the victory, and He is the Lord who is going to give us peace, forgiveness of sins and life everlasting. 

Psalm 118 in fact reminds us of the unbelievable adversities between the Day of the Lord and the days of men who do evil against God’s children and against God’s Anointed One. The anguish, the animosity, the betrayal, the rejection, all of them the Day of the Lord, through the Messiah, will turn them into Good Day when the Lord seek vengeance for his people and when the Lord ends all evil. So let us "give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, his love endures forever." Psalm 118:29

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On this Sunday, inspired by psalm 69, and by the Prayer of St. Francis, known as “make me a channel of your peace”, Fr Andre explores the contradictions between the world and the Gospel of Good News. Why would the world reject the message of Christ, when Christ’s message is nothing but goodness, forgiveness of sins, peace, healing, joy and life? It seems such a contradiction that the world would abstain from accepting what is good for it. The deception is that the world might be imprisoned in the shadows of things instead of being the true life for all. Fr Andre reminds us of the myth of the cavern of Plato according to which the man who is not used to the light thinks that the shadows of life are the life. The power of the good news of Christ is that it dares to preach the Kingdom of Heaven to people who are locked in the whims of life and to free those who live in darkness. if the world continues to persecute Christianity, the suffering, betrayal, evil, wars, deceptions, sadness, sickness, famine and death will enter humanity into the cave of the graves and it will impact the human joy, life and the peace of mankind. How does the Mission of Hope and Mercy help carrying forward despite persecution and difficulties the Message of the Good News of the Gospel. 

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On this Sunday, Fr Andre explores the power of the Cross of Christ. With the Resurrection of Christ, the Cross has shifted from being a cruse into becoming the most precious gift through which Christ redeemed all mankind and has giving it life. Today in the world, like every day, suffering and betrayal, evil and death continue to impact the human joy, life and the peace of mankind. Does humanity feel the power of the Cross of Christ? Can Christ heal humanity today from its pain and suffering? The faith in the resurrection of Christ is the key to understand the power of the victory of the Cross over death and satan. Christians in the US and the world, are the witnesses to the power of the cross, and the proclaimers of the Resurrection of Christ to all the nations of the earth. In this Good News is the mystery of life, peace and all happiness.   

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On this Sunday, Fr Andre explores the “journey of mankind from the exile of death and sin to the life of joy and eternity. Our lives move from the finality of humanity into the Eternity of God. All this has been given to us through Jesus Christ in His Passion, Death and Resurrection. The gift of Jesus to mankind is Divine Mercy through which Christ consoles every heart, and bring every life which was separated by sin and death, back into unity and life with God. 

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Gerard Abi assaf: 

BIO: Mission of Hope and Mercy Vice President.   

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:  

Holy Week and Easter Sunday Celebrations, prayers liturgies and the culture and food that comes with it. Can you ever imagine churches in the Middle East not ringing their bells after 2023 years on Christianity? What can we do in order to keep Christianity alive and vivid in Lebanon and the Middle East? How can American Christians help to preserve Christianity’s last stronghold in the Middle East which is Lebanon? 

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The Safety of our children in schools. A Security and a religious read on the The Nashville Christian school shooting.

Mr. Chris Sorensen

BIO: Chris, a friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and a veteran himself. Has personal consulting business in risks, vulnerability and threat assessments and a  security business. 

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:  

The Safety of our children in schools is at risk. While we mourn the loss of the children and the staffs who were killed in the Nashville shooting, we want to pray for the rest of their souls, and for comfort to their families. This is a very unsettling and sad situation. We are praying for the victims and the members of our community. We are thankful to the two courageous police officers who shot and killed the perpetrator and saved the other members of the school.

Where do we go from there? Gun violence and mass shooting are very complex topics in the US. it is way beyond the competence of our show. However we like to honor the names of the people who were killed, and to focus on how we can make safer our children in the schools. 

From a Security perspective, a question could be always true: how can we make the schools safer? On the other hand, from a religious perspective, The Nashville Christian school shooting targeted a religious based school. Do we know enough if the shooting is related to the fact that this school is religious base or not? We need to wait for the results of the investigation if they can share or shed light on this dimension in order to help us make religious based schools more protected and safer as well. Remember that the shooting happened in a Christian conservative Presbyterian school of the Covenant. The daughter of the pastor of that church is one of the three little 9 year old victims. What is the lesson we need to learn here? One of the three focuses of The Mission of Hope and Mercy is Education. Through our education and awareness program, we support the needs of several schools and students and spread awareness about the Truth and Hope of Jesus Christ. The Mission of Hope and Mercy has in fact achieved in a great way saving a christian school which was opened in 1940 from closing when the Mission adopted the school teachers, nuns and students in 2021. The school did not close, and today the Mission of Hope and Mercy supports in this school the model of pluralism, coexistence, religious mutual respect, integration, and academic excellence. We have successfully achieved saving these children from human trafficking, illiteracy, terrorist harvesting and they have become an integration model for peace and freedom in Lebanon. We have in the school 220 students. 105 Syrian Sunni refugees, 57 lebanese Shia muslims, and 58 Christian students. Supporting the Mission of Hope and Mercy’s educational mission can bring great news to many families, children and orphans in the US and Lebanon.   

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The Holy Week celebrations in Lebanon coincide with the Muslim Ramadan. 

Fr Charbel Kosseifi, 

BIO: Graduated with PhD in Canon Law, Fr Charbel has specialized in marriage and family. He is a priest in the Diocese of Jbeil, assistant pastor at Saint Georges Maronite Parish in Halat, Jbeil, Lebanon, and a canon lawyer at the Maronite Tribunal and a friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy.  

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:  

Christians are celebrating Holy Week while the muslims have startled the month of Ramadan. What are the numbers of Christians and muslims in hte world today.
 

A) 10 things to know from the latest survey on the Catholic Church today.

1. The total number of Catholics has increased. 

2. The total number of priests continues to decrease

3. The number of seminarians also continues its steady decline.

4. The number of women religious decreased.

5. There is a huge imbalance of priests to lay faithful in the Americas.

6. The total number of bishops decreased slightly.

7. Brazil has the highest number of Catholics of any nation in the world.

8. The Church is growing quickly in Africa.  

9. Africa breaks the trend by showing an increase in seminarians and religious brothers.

10. The number of permanent deacons increased.

B) Lebanon economy 2023:

At the start of 2023, Lebanon continues to experience one of the worst financial crises the world has seen since the 1850s. The country's economic collapse in 2019 -- along with the COVID-19 pandemic and the Port of Beirut explosion has led to such dire circumstances that even bank robbers are considered heroes.

The Lebanese pound has crashed, losing 95 percent of its value since 2019.The country's GDP went from $55 billion in 2018 to $20.5 billion in 2021. Such decline is normally seen during times of war, according to the World Bank. More than 80 percent of people are living in poverty, the UN says. That's nearly 5.5 million people. Without any social safety nets, people cannot afford basic necessities. A UNICEF report found that more than half of families with at least one child skip a meal.

C) Lebanon is not on the foreign countries list to offer help.

• Biden wants $886 billion for defense as Ukraine continues and China looms according to reuters. President Joe Biden's record peacetime national defense budget request of $886 billion boasts a 5.2% pay raise for troops and the largest research and development budget in history, as Russian aggression in Ukraine spurs demand for more military spending.

• While the economy of Lebanon needs 10 to 15 billion dollars to start the economy recovery

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March 19 is the FeastDay of Saint Joseph. His partnership with God the Father for the salvation of the human race by taking care of Mary and Jesus.  

Dr Susan Childress. 

BIO: Dr Susan Childress MD specializes in Rheumatology. Dr Childress gives the impression that she is very knowledgeable, thorough and kind.

Fr Charbel Kosseifi, 

BIO: Graduated with PhD in Canon Law, Fr Charbel has specialized in marriage and family. He is a priest in the Diocese of Jbeil, assistant pastor at Saint Georges Maronite Parish in Halat, Jbeil, Lebanon, and a canon lawyer at the Maronite Tribunal and a friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy.  

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT: 

On this show, we will speak about the spirituality of Saint Joseph, the chase spouse of the Virgin Mary, Mother of Jesus, and the guardian father by adoption of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. What can we learn from his virtues? The impact of his righteousness and obedience to the Law of Moses on Jesus’ life and ministry. What can we learn today from his life in every christian family who is amidst suffering, persecution, forced migration, and being personally targeted by hate from worldly authorities. On the other hand, we continue to seek updates, developments & initiatives from Dr Susan Childress in her last week of her trip to Lebanon in order to help the people. Dr Susan conducted many site visits and met with superior general of the Sisters of the Holy Family, the largest Congregation of Sisters in the Middle East.

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2 US doctors have visited Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. Part 4

Dr Susan Childress. 

BIO: Dr Susan Childress MD specializes in Rheumatology. Dr Childress gives the impression that she is very knowledgeable, thorough and kind.

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

Mr. Kal Abi Youness, Mission of Hope and Mercy, volunteer for field programs.

BIO: graduated with business administration from NDU University, Mr Kal is the owner of a Car Rental Agency. He is also a well known trainer in hunting and animal environment expert.  

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT: 

The two US doctors came to Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. They spoke about updates, developments & initiatives that they saw on the ground and what they think the priorities must be in order to help the people of Lebanon and also the victims inside the devastated areas by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. Mission of Hope and Mercy. While the drs were in Lebanon they met with the team of the Mission of Hope and Mercy, and conducted many site visits and met with members of the Lebanese civil defense movement who were ones of the first rescue teams to arrive in turkey as volunteers to rescue victims from the devastated buildings and from under the rubbles. 

The guests will also report  about on the impact of the Ukrainian war on Lebanon Crisis post the Earthquake. The guests will also comment on the humanitarian impact of crisis on children and the fact that refugees are still getting education why Lebanese kids are missing it. The Mission of Hope and Mercy team has also held a  meeting in Lebanon to take preventive actions in case of earthquakes. Guests will also comment on the kidnapping and crime status in Lebanon after the crisis. 

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2 US doctors have visited Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. Part 3

Dr Jack Zamora

BIO: The creator of the J-Plazty® skin tightening procedure, Dr. Jack Zamora, M.D. offers the latest cosmetic surgery and med spa treatments in Denver, Colorado.

Dr Susan Childress. 

BIO: Dr Susan Childress MD specializes in Rheumatology. Dr Childress gives the impression that she is very knowledgeable, thorough and kind.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT: 

The two US doctors came to Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. They spoke about updates, developments & initiatives that they saw on the ground and what they think the priorities must be in order to help the people of Lebanon and also the victims inside the devastated areas by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. Mission of Hope and Mercy has issues a Press Release- on February 9-2023 announcing the visit. An Emergency Fund was opened for Earthquake and Relief efforts. The Colorado-based Mission of Hope and Mercy works directly with the most vulnerable in Lebanon, neighboring Syria and other countries in the Middle East where people face violence, war, persecution and extreme hardship. Their efforts include providing shelter, food, medicines, schooling and advocacy for thousands of families and support for teachers, schools, care homes and other organizations caring for the most vulnerable.

Collaboration with US based volunteers, doctors and partners has been essential in the organization’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when crisis strikes, as well as providing a stable presence in a region that is ravaged by war, economic and political crisis, violence and natural disasters.

Father Andre YS Mahanna heads up the Mission of Hope and Mercy and remains at the spearhead of its efforts. He said, “I am most consoled to see that friends and doctors of the Mission of Hope and Mercy will be coming urgently and very soon to Lebanon in order to conduct a field assessment, a crisis management operation and to participate in our relief efforts.” 

This aid comes after a series of unfortunate and disastrous winter snowstorms in Lebanon and the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria earlier this week. The first quake was followed by another of 7.5 magnitude, and numerous aftershocks.

“This historical visit also comes as a response to the economic disasters and medical crises that have severely affected millions of people in the region,” said Fr. Andre.  

Although no deaths have been reported in Lebanon from the quake so far, the devastation to homes, businesses and buildings is being felt. The municipality of Beirut and other cities around it have asked people to evacuate buildings which were already severely damaged from the Beirut Explosion of August 4, 2020. The caretaker interior minister in Lebanon called on residents "to evacuate dilapidated buildings if cracks are apparent, to avoid a new disaster."

Thousands were forced into the streets, to sleep in their cars or to find safe shelter elsewhere. This at a time when the country is being hit by severe weather including snowstorms.

“The real disaster in Lebanon remains that people have no fuel for warmth or electricity, meagre food supplies, no medical supplies or access to affordable healthcare, and over one million children have not returned to school since the Christmas Break,” added Fr. Andre.

According to UNESCWA, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, approximately 80% of Lebanon’s population lives below the poverty line, and 36% are in extreme poverty. The economic crisis has devastated a healthcare sector already in crisis. 

“Help from US doctors is critical if we are to address the crisis in Lebanon and the Middle East,” said Fr. Andre. “In Lebanon, medicines and medical supplies, most of which are imported, are in short supply, leading to many deaths and threatening the lives of patients with serious illnesses including cancer. The value of nurses’ and doctors’ salaries has declined rapidly, triggering a mass exodus, and placing a heavy burden on the remaining workforce.”

“I am so grateful to the doctors that are giving their time to come to the aid of these suffering people.” 

The US based doctors and volunteers will be joining Fr. Andre and his mission team in Lebanon from February 16 – February 23.

The crisis in Lebanon is not new, it’s decades old but has escalated in the last two years. The ongoing economic crisis has worsened as the coronavirus pandemic took hold in 2020, followed by the devastating August 2020 Port of Beirut blast, which has been described by experts as “one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions in history."

“These people are suffering,” said Fr. Andre, who is a tireless advocate for those facing persecution, discrimination, hardship and genocide and dedicates his life to bridging political and religious divides in pursuit of peace and freedom for all peoples. 

“Fuel shortages in Lebanon have caused widespread electricity blackouts, lasting up to 23 hours per day, and private generators—a costly alternative—have not been able to fill the gap, leaving large portions of the country in darkness for several hours a day,” continued Fr. Andre. “Hospitals, schools, and industry have struggled to operate. People have been left without electricity and clean water, unable to heat or cool their homes. And those who want to leave are stuck, as there’s no fuel available to fill their vehicles.”

Fr. Andre hopes that the visit by this group of US doctors will shine a light on the plight of the people of the Middle East. “I address people of the US and around the world,” he said, “with resolve, trusting in God and your good will to send help to the people of Lebanon, Turkey and Syria who were affected, directly and indirectly, by major storms, cold winter and the February 6 earthquake.” 

“I ask you in the name of our common nature as good human beings to show compassion towards the weak, the hungry, the oppressed, the sick, the weary, the displaced, and the victims of wars and disasters.”

Mission of Hope and Mercy has opened a Relief Fund to assist the people in the Middle East affected by the earthquake and severe storms. Donations can be made at https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/donate/.(Please state the purpose of your donation as “Relief Fund winter 2023”) All funds raised will go in full to help people with food, medications, tents and temporary housing, blankets, fuel for warming homes, emergency surgeries if needed, and school education.

Mission of Hope and Mercy is also inviting people in the US to join them in a Week of Prayer, Solidarity and Acts of Charity for the People of Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and Iraq from Sunday February 12 - Sunday February 19, 2023.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2 US doctors have visited Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. Part 3

Dr Jack Zamora

BIO: The creator of the J-Plazty® skin tightening procedure, Dr. Jack Zamora, M.D. offers the latest cosmetic surgery and med spa treatments in Denver, Colorado.

Dr Susan Childress. 

BIO: Dr Susan Childress MD specializes in Rheumatology. Dr Childress gives the impression that she is very knowledgeable, thorough and kind.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT: 

The two US doctors came to Lebanon to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. They spoke about updates, developments & initiatives that they saw on the ground and what they think the priorities must be in order to help the people of Lebanon and also the victims inside the devastated areas by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. Mission of Hope and Mercy has issues a Press Release- on February 9-2023 announcing the visit. An Emergency Fund was opened for Earthquake and Relief efforts. The Colorado-based Mission of Hope and Mercy works directly with the most vulnerable in Lebanon, neighboring Syria and other countries in the Middle East where people face violence, war, persecution and extreme hardship. Their efforts include providing shelter, food, medicines, schooling and advocacy for thousands of families and support for teachers, schools, care homes and other organizations caring for the most vulnerable.

Collaboration with US based volunteers, doctors and partners has been essential in the organization’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when crisis strikes, as well as providing a stable presence in a region that is ravaged by war, economic and political crisis, violence and natural disasters.

Father Andre YS Mahanna heads up the Mission of Hope and Mercy and remains at the spearhead of its efforts. He said, “I am most consoled to see that friends and doctors of the Mission of Hope and Mercy will be coming urgently and very soon to Lebanon in order to conduct a field assessment, a crisis management operation and to participate in our relief efforts.” 

This aid comes after a series of unfortunate and disastrous winter snowstorms in Lebanon and the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria earlier this week. The first quake was followed by another of 7.5 magnitude, and numerous aftershocks.

“This historical visit also comes as a response to the economic disasters and medical crises that have severely affected millions of people in the region,” said Fr. Andre.  

Although no deaths have been reported in Lebanon from the quake so far, the devastation to homes, businesses and buildings is being felt. The municipality of Beirut and other cities around it have asked people to evacuate buildings which were already severely damaged from the Beirut Explosion of August 4, 2020. The caretaker interior minister in Lebanon called on residents "to evacuate dilapidated buildings if cracks are apparent, to avoid a new disaster."

Thousands were forced into the streets, to sleep in their cars or to find safe shelter elsewhere. This at a time when the country is being hit by severe weather including snowstorms.

“The real disaster in Lebanon remains that people have no fuel for warmth or electricity, meagre food supplies, no medical supplies or access to affordable healthcare, and over one million children have not returned to school since the Christmas Break,” added Fr. Andre.

According to UNESCWA, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, approximately 80% of Lebanon’s population lives below the poverty line, and 36% are in extreme poverty. The economic crisis has devastated a healthcare sector already in crisis. 

“Help from US doctors is critical if we are to address the crisis in Lebanon and the Middle East,” said Fr. Andre. “In Lebanon, medicines and medical supplies, most of which are imported, are in short supply, leading to many deaths and threatening the lives of patients with serious illnesses including cancer. The value of nurses’ and doctors’ salaries has declined rapidly, triggering a mass exodus, and placing a heavy burden on the remaining workforce.”

“I am so grateful to the doctors that are giving their time to come to the aid of these suffering people.” 

The US based doctors and volunteers will be joining Fr. Andre and his mission team in Lebanon from February 16 – February 23.

The crisis in Lebanon is not new, it’s decades old but has escalated in the last two years. The ongoing economic crisis has worsened as the coronavirus pandemic took hold in 2020, followed by the devastating August 2020 Port of Beirut blast, which has been described by experts as “one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions in history."

“These people are suffering,” said Fr. Andre, who is a tireless advocate for those facing persecution, discrimination, hardship and genocide and dedicates his life to bridging political and religious divides in pursuit of peace and freedom for all peoples. 

“Fuel shortages in Lebanon have caused widespread electricity blackouts, lasting up to 23 hours per day, and private generators—a costly alternative—have not been able to fill the gap, leaving large portions of the country in darkness for several hours a day,” continued Fr. Andre. “Hospitals, schools, and industry have struggled to operate. People have been left without electricity and clean water, unable to heat or cool their homes. And those who want to leave are stuck, as there’s no fuel available to fill their vehicles.”

Fr. Andre hopes that the visit by this group of US doctors will shine a light on the plight of the people of the Middle East. “I address people of the US and around the world,” he said, “with resolve, trusting in God and your good will to send help to the people of Lebanon, Turkey and Syria who were affected, directly and indirectly, by major storms, cold winter and the February 6 earthquake.” 

“I ask you in the name of our common nature as good human beings to show compassion towards the weak, the hungry, the oppressed, the sick, the weary, the displaced, and the victims of wars and disasters.”

Mission of Hope and Mercy has opened a Relief Fund to assist the people in the Middle East affected by the earthquake and severe storms. Donations can be made at https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/donate/.(Please state the purpose of your donation as “Relief Fund winter 2023”) All funds raised will go in full to help people with food, medications, tents and temporary housing, blankets, fuel for warming homes, emergency surgeries if needed, and school education.

Mission of Hope and Mercy is also inviting people in the US to join them in a Week of Prayer, Solidarity and Acts of Charity for the People of Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and Iraq from Sunday February 12 - Sunday February 19, 2023.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US doctors are preparing to fly to Lebanon next week to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey. Part 2

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUEST SPEAK ABOUT: 

A group of US doctors are preparing to fly to Lebanon next week to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the

country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey.

Updates, Developments & Initiatives 

1. Lebanon Family Crisis: Mothers skipping meals
2. Worsening conditions for vulnerable families
3. Why the INICEF regards only the Syrian families in Lebanon as the vulnerable families? Are there Lebanese Vulnerable families? Where are they and how many are there?
4. Missing medicines in Lebanon life threatening.

Mission of Hope and Mercy Press Release- February 9-2023

Emergency Fund Opened for Earthquake and Relief efforts in Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria. 

The Colorado-based Mission of Hope and Mercy works directly with the most vulnerable in Lebanon, neighboring Syria and other countries in the Middle East where people face violence, war, persecution and extreme hardship. Their efforts include providing shelter, food, medicines, schooling and advocacy for thousands of families and support for teachers, schools, care homes and other organizations caring for the most vulnerable.

Collaboration with US based volunteers, doctors and partners has been essential in the organization’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when crisis strikes, as well as providing a stable presence in a region that is ravaged by war, economic and political crisis, violence and natural disasters.

Father Andre YS Mahanna heads up the Mission of Hope and Mercy and remains at the spearhead of its efforts. He said, “I am most consoled to see that friends and doctors of the Mission of Hope and Mercy will be coming urgently and very soon to Lebanon in order to conduct a field assessment, a crisis management operation and to participate in our relief efforts.” 

This aid comes after a series of unfortunate and disastrous winter snowstorms in Lebanon and the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria earlier this week. The first quake was followed by another of 7.5 magnitude, and numerous aftershocks.

“This historical visit also comes as a response to the economic disasters and medical crises that have severely affected millions of people in the region,” said Fr. Andre.  

Although no deaths have been reported in Lebanon from the quake so far, the devastation to homes, businesses and buildings is being felt. The municipality of Beirut and other cities around it have asked people to evacuate buildings which were already severely damaged from the Beirut Explosion of August 4, 2020. The caretaker interior minister in Lebanon called on residents "to evacuate dilapidated buildings if cracks are apparent, to avoid a new disaster."

Thousands were forced into the streets, to sleep in their cars or to find safe shelter elsewhere. This at a time when the country is being hit by severe weather including snowstorms.

“The real disaster in Lebanon remains that people have no fuel for warmth or electricity, meagre food supplies, no medical supplies or access to affordable healthcare, and over one million children have not returned to school since the Christmas Break,” added Fr. Andre.

According to UNESCWA, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, approximately 80% of Lebanon’s population lives below the poverty line, and 36% are in extreme poverty. The economic crisis has devastated a healthcare sector already in crisis. 

“Help from US doctors is critical if we are to address the crisis in Lebanon and the Middle East,” said Fr. Andre. “In Lebanon, medicines and medical supplies, most of which are imported, are in short supply, leading to many deaths and threatening the lives of patients with serious illnesses including cancer. The value of nurses’ and doctors’ salaries has declined rapidly, triggering a mass exodus, and placing a heavy burden on the remaining workforce.”

“I am so grateful to the doctors that are giving their time to come to the aid of these suffering people.” 

The US based doctors and volunteers will be joining Fr. Andre and his mission team in Lebanon from February 16 – February 23.

The crisis in Lebanon is not new, it’s decades old but has escalated in the last two years. The ongoing economic crisis has worsened as the coronavirus pandemic took hold in 2020, followed by the devastating August 2020 Port of Beirut blast, which has been described by experts as “one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions in history."

“These people are suffering,” said Fr. Andre, who is a tireless advocate for those facing persecution, discrimination, hardship and genocide and dedicates his life to bridging political and religious divides in pursuit of peace and freedom for all peoples. 

“Fuel shortages in Lebanon have caused widespread electricity blackouts, lasting up to 23 hours per day, and private generators—a costly alternative—have not been able to fill the gap, leaving large portions of the country in darkness for several hours a day,” continued Fr. Andre. “Hospitals, schools, and industry have struggled to operate. People have been left without electricity and clean water, unable to heat or cool their homes. And those who want to leave are stuck, as there’s no fuel available to fill their vehicles.”

Fr. Andre hopes that the visit by this group of US doctors will shine a light on the plight of the people of the Middle East. “I address people of the US and around the world,” he said, “with resolve, trusting in God and your good will to send help to the people of Lebanon, Turkey and Syria who were affected, directly and indirectly, by major storms, cold winter and the February 6 earthquake.” 

“I ask you in the name of our common nature as good human beings to show compassion towards the weak, the hungry, the oppressed, the sick, the weary, the displaced, and the victims of wars and disasters.”

Mission of Hope and Mercy has opened a Relief Fund to assist the people in the Middle East affected by the earthquake and severe storms. Donations can be made at https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/donate/.(Please state the purpose of your donation as “Relief Fund winter 2023”) All funds raised will go in full to help people with food, medications, tents and temporary housing, blankets, fuel for warming homes, emergency surgeries if needed, and school education.

Mission of Hope and Mercy is also inviting people in the US to join them in a Week of Prayer, Solidarity and Acts of Charity for the People of Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and Iraq from Sunday February 12 - Sunday February 19, 2023.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUEST SPEAK ABOUT: 

Mission of Hope and Mercy Press Release- February 9-2023

Emergency Fund Opened for Earthquake and Relief efforts in Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria. 

A group of US doctors are preparing to fly to Lebanon next week to aid the US organization, St. Rafka Mission of Hope and Mercy with relief efforts in the country and to help people following the devastating February 6 earthquakes in Turkey.

The Colorado-based charity works directly with the most vulnerable in Lebanon, neighboring Syria and other countries in the Middle East where people face violence, war, persecution and extreme hardship. Their efforts include providing shelter, food, medicines, schooling and advocacy for thousands of families and support for teachers, schools, care homes and other organizations caring for the most vulnerable.

Collaboration with US based volunteers, doctors and partners has been essential in the organization’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when crisis strikes, as well as providing a stable presence in a region that is ravaged by war, economic and political crisis, violence and natural disasters.

Father Andre YS Mahanna heads up the Mission of Hope and Mercy and remains at the spearhead of its efforts. He said, “I am most consoled to see that friends and doctors of the Mission of Hope and Mercy will be coming urgently and very soon to Lebanon in order to conduct a field assessment, a crisis management operation and to participate in our relief efforts.” 

This aid comes after a series of unfortunate and disastrous winter snowstorms in Lebanon and the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria earlier this week. The first quake was followed by another of 7.5 magnitude, and numerous aftershocks.

“This historical visit also comes as a response to the economic disasters and medical crises that have severely affected millions of people in the region,” said Fr. Andre.  

Although no deaths have been reported in Lebanon from the quake so far, the devastation to homes, businesses and buildings is being felt. The municipality of Beirut and other cities around it have asked people to evacuate buildings which were already severely damaged from the Beirut Explosion of August 4, 2020. The caretaker interior minister in Lebanon called on residents "to evacuate dilapidated buildings if cracks are apparent, to avoid a new disaster."

Thousands were forced into the streets, to sleep in their cars or to find safe shelter elsewhere. This at a time when the country is being hit by severe weather including snowstorms.

“The real disaster in Lebanon remains that people have no fuel for warmth or electricity, meagre food supplies, no medical supplies or access to affordable healthcare, and over one million children have not returned to school since the Christmas Break,” added Fr. Andre.

According to UNESCWA, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, approximately 80% of Lebanon’s population lives below the poverty line, and 36% are in extreme poverty. The economic crisis has devastated a healthcare sector already in crisis. 

“Help from US doctors is critical if we are to address the crisis in Lebanon and the Middle East,” said Fr. Andre. “In Lebanon, medicines and medical supplies, most of which are imported, are in short supply, leading to many deaths and threatening the lives of patients with serious illnesses including cancer. The value of nurses’ and doctors’ salaries has declined rapidly, triggering a mass exodus, and placing a heavy burden on the remaining workforce.”

“I am so grateful to the doctors that are giving their time to come to the aid of these suffering people.” 

The US based doctors and volunteers will be joining Fr. Andre and his mission team in Lebanon from February 16 – February 23.

The crisis in Lebanon is not new, it’s decades old but has escalated in the last two years. The ongoing economic crisis has worsened as the coronavirus pandemic took hold in 2020, followed by the devastating August 2020 Port of Beirut blast, which has been described by experts as “one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions in history."

“These people are suffering,” said Fr. Andre, who is a tireless advocate for those facing persecution, discrimination, hardship and genocide and dedicates his life to bridging political and religious divides in pursuit of peace and freedom for all peoples. 

“Fuel shortages in Lebanon have caused widespread electricity blackouts, lasting up to 23 hours per day, and private generators—a costly alternative—have not been able to fill the gap, leaving large portions of the country in darkness for several hours a day,” continued Fr. Andre. “Hospitals, schools, and industry have struggled to operate. People have been left without electricity and clean water, unable to heat or cool their homes. And those who want to leave are stuck, as there’s no fuel available to fill their vehicles.”

Fr. Andre hopes that the visit by this group of US doctors will shine a light on the plight of the people of the Middle East. “I address people of the US and around the world,” he said, “with resolve, trusting in God and your good will to send help to the people of Lebanon, Turkey and Syria who were affected, directly and indirectly, by major storms, cold winter and the February 6 earthquake.” 

“I ask you in the name of our common nature as good human beings to show compassion towards the weak, the hungry, the oppressed, the sick, the weary, the displaced, and the victims of wars and disasters.”

Mission of Hope and Mercy has opened a Relief Fund to assist the people in the Middle East affected by the earthquake and severe storms. Donations can be made at https://missionofhopeandmercy.org/donate/.(Please state the purpose of your donation as “Relief Fund winter 2023”) All funds raised will go in full to help people with food, medications, tents and temporary housing, blankets, fuel for warming homes, emergency surgeries if needed, and school education.

Mission of Hope and Mercy is also inviting people in the US to join them in a Week of Prayer, Solidarity and Acts of Charity for the People of Lebanon, Turkey, Syria and Iraq from Sunday February 12 - Sunday February 19, 2023.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUEST SPEAK ABOUT:

Lebanon has now reached a very dangerous security situation. Added to the existential food, medication, and security threat. This week Lebanon is facing one of the most dangerous times in its educational system. All public schools have not opened since before Christmas break and over one million five thousand students have not been able to return to their classrooms. Added to this crisis of public schools, now students and teachers of the Private School system, %80 of which are catholic/Christian schools have declared a teachers strike for an entire week. This strike indicates clearly that the youngest ages in Lebanon now are facing a complete void, which is not good for the safety of Lebanon nor for its future. 

On another topic, this week there is huge increase in the dollar rate which exceeded 64 thousand LBP for the 1 US Dollar. The dollar crisis affected the diesel price in Lebanon, which is necessary for providing energy and heat for homes and institutions. The snow storms in Lebanon did not help the situation as many villages had to shout down their generators which provide both electricity and warmth to hundreds of homes and families. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lebanon has now reached a very dangerous security situation. It has also reached an existential food, medication, and security threat. There are rumors of religious Islamist terrorism on the rise again. In the financial crisis The us dollar has sky rocketed to reach 61500 LBP. 

On the other hand, the Christians are experiencing more and more persecution in the world. We will speak about Fr. Oscar Benavidez, who was arrested and sentenced for 8 years in jail after receiving a very irregular trial. All of this happened because Fr Oscar expressed his opinion about the Ortega regime. Daniel Ortega, the president of Nicaragua believes that he was anointed by God to start the political messianism. This is a very dangerous ideology growing in Nicaragua. Political messianism is led by the wife of Daniel Ortega and aims to persecute Catholic and Protestant institutions and individuals in Central America. On this show we will also speak about the persecution of the Christians in India where the persecution is predicted to increase a lot to reach one of the highest countries persecuting christians along with China and Nigeria.  The program of food security of the Mission of Hope and Mercy facing responding to the economic difficulties of the Christian people in Lebanon. In 2023 we have hope and with the solidarity between people, we can rise and be supportive of one another. The work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy has been focused to bring 3000 food boxes that is 47 tons of Food to at least 25 thousand people. Family is the central unit where the Mission is investing most of its programs in order to make the families become the place where faith, hope and love are restored. The Mission of Hope and Mercy continues to seek the help of all the donors and friends at our End of Year Campaign. This campaign will feed at least 3000 families, will help paying for education for an entire school and provide medication for dozens of people with chronic illnesses and will help paying for surgeries for people who are in need. 

Peace in the World is the basic foundation in which humanity can grow in faith, hope and love, and this can only happen with the Lord Jesus Christ. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Lebanon there is a huge demographic plan to replace population of Christians with non-Christians, and fear of also giving permanent housing and status to Non-Lebanese people to replace the Christian population that is immigrating from Lebanon. The percentage of Christians in Lebanon is dropping even more below 34% and the aggressive targeted news stories in the media is playing role in demoralizing the Christians. The Syrian Refugee Crisis in Lebanon is eve now more a threat with the Baby Milk and Formulas not available for Lebanese children and babies while the numbers Syrian birth rate in Lebanon.

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIO: Graduated with Civil Engineering degree from LAU, Lebanese American University in Lebanon. Alexi also has a minor in finance and economics.

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Emanuel, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

The Impact of the war in Ukraine on Lebanon: Good Sunday Morning with Fr Andre will discuss this week the situation in Ukraine, between global war, a Third World War or a war of famine. The impact of the war in Ukraine on Lebanon in food threat, oil supplies and the stability crisis in the economic, security and religious situations.  The program of food security of the Mission of Hope and Mercy facing responding to the economic difficulties of the Christian people in Lebanon. In 2023 we have hope and with the solidarity between people, we can rise and be supportive of one another. The work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy has been focused to bring 3000 food boxes that is 47 tons of Food to at least 25 thousand people. Family is the central unit where the Mission is investing most of its programs in order to make the families become the place where faith, hope and love are restored. The Mission of Hope and Mercy continues to seek the help of all the donors and friends at our End of Year Campaign. This campaign will feed at least 3000 families, will help paying for education for an entire school and provide medication for dozens of people with chronic illnesses and will help paying for surgeries for people who are in need. 

Peace in the World is the basic foundation in which humanity can grow in faith, hope and love, and this can only happen with the Lord Jesus Christ. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIO:  CEO of Tree Pack Box company, friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy. 

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

Mr. Gerard Abi Assaf

Bio: Vice President of the Mission of Hope and Mercy

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

The Epiphany Show: Good Sunday Morning with Fr Andre , Sunday January 8- 2023. The meaning of Epiphany in the East and the West. The new resolutions of 2023 for the Mission of Hope and Mercy. The program of food security of the Mission of Hope and Mercy facing responding to the economic difficulties of the Christian people in Lebanon. In 2023 we have hope and with the solidarity between people, we can rise and be supportive of one another. The traditional meaning of the Epihany Dough that rises without the yeast. People hang it on the tree and at midnight Christ comes and blesses the dough and the trees kneel for Jesus. Houses are lit in a sign of welcome to Jesus. The work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy has been focused to bring 3000 food boxes that is 47 tons of Food to at least 25 thousand people. Family is the central unit where the Mission is investing most of its programs in order to make the families become the place where faith, hope and love are restored. The Mission of Hope and Mercy continues to seek the help of all the donors and friends at our End of Year Campaign. This campaign will feed at least 3000 families, will help paying for education for an entire school and provide medication for dozens of people with chronic illnesses and will help paying for surgeries for people who are in need. 

Peace in the World is the basic foundation in which humanity can grow in faith, hope and love, and this can only happen with the Lord Jesus Christ. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

Christmas Day Special Show: Good Sunday Morning with Fr Andre , Sunday December 25, 2022. Christmas is the Most Celebrated Holiday in the World. The work of the Mission of Hope and Mercy has been focused to bring 3000 food boxes that is 47 tons of Food to at least 25 thousand people. Family is the central unit where at Christmas it becomes the place of restoring faith, hope and love. The family is the focus of this Christmas show. The best gift God gave us at Christmas is the Birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. 

The Mission of Hope and Mercy continues to seek the help of al the donors and friends at our End of Year Campaign. This campaign will feed at least 3000 families, will help paying for education for an entire school and provide medication for dozens of people with chronic illnesses and will help paying for surgeries for people who are in need. 

We will read the Christmas Gospel on this show, and will proclaim Psalm 2. Mrs Jacqueline Emanuel will speak of the Christmas Tradition in Lebanon and how despite the economic collapse in the country, the virtues of resilience and goodness of heart are making a big difference in the life of the people. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

We will speak about the Christmas Traditions in Lebanon.  Jacqueline Emanuel, Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in Lebanon will tell us about the food, activities, Christmas Dinner, the prayers that are special to Lebanon.  We will speak about the families in need in Lebanon and ways to help through the Mission of Hope and Mercy 2022 Christmas end of Year Campaign.    

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ABOUT THE GUESTS: 

Fr Johnny ElRai, 

Fr Johnny ElRai, a Maronite priest since 22 years ago. He graduated with Masters in Canon Law, he was just appointed a judge at the Maronite Patriarchal Tribunal in Lebanon. He is the pastor of Saint Joseph Maronite Church in Harte Sakher, Diocese of Jounieh, Mount Lebanon, Lebanon. Fr Johnny is a friend of the Mission of Hope and Mercy in Lebanon.  

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

The questions we will discuss with Fr Johnny will be interesting for listeners in the US. It will be regarding marriage, threats against the christian family in Lebanon. We will speak about the crisis of annulments and divorces rates in Lebanon with Jacqueline Emanuel, Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in Lebanon. We will ask Fr Johnny about the civil marriage and church opinion in Lebanon. We will also ask Fr Johnny about the relationship between the Ecclesiastical Tribunal in Lebanon and the Civil Tribunal of Lebanon. We will finally speak about the families in need in Fr Johnny’s parish of Saint Joseph church and ways to help through the Mission of Hope and Mercy. 

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Mr Gerard Abi Assaf,

Gerard is a Colorado School of Mines TA, while doing his graduate studies in electrical engineering. Gerard is also the Vice President for operations at the Mission of Hope and Mercy, a Colorado based Non For Profit. Well versed in Arabic, English and French. A good public speaker who did many conferences and participated in major US based conservative forums to defend and promote faith, family and freedom values, especially in defense of the persecuted Christians and religious freedom.  

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

Why would people in Colorado want to help people in Lebanon thousands of miles away. Gerard states: “I found out that they are hungry to their roots. They want to help Lebanon because it is part of the Holy Land, it is part of our local identity as Christians in the US”. It is an uphill battle for the foundational values and principles of freedom, peace and life and we cannot fail.  Through it the Christian people in the US are looking forward to stand in solidarity with Lebanon whose Christian people are fighting for the same principle of our freedom of faith, hope and love. If Christians in the Middle East lose, US Christians lose. 

Our help for Lebanon is strategic and is part of defending our identity. 

The situation in Lebanon is undergoing an existential threat. It is the only country where people in the Middle East still enjoy religious freedom. 

The Mission message to the donors in Colorado and the US is that your Hope will allow us to assist the grassroots. The Mission is connected to the grassroots of Christians in the Middle East. The Mission Christmas program includes gifts for 2500 children and food for 3 thousand families. 

This Episode encourages people to use their Colorado Giving Tuesday gifts in order to help the Mission of Hope and Mercy Christmas program for 2022. Gerard and Jacqueline explain ways to encourage donors to give towards food, medication and education. 

The situation in Lebanon is more than a crisis, it is a life threatening situation and American donors can definitely help Christians in Lebanon recover, survive and go back to their natural role in the Middle East: peace makers and promoters of co-existence, love and pluralism for all in the Region.  

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Mr Paul D’Alessandro, 

Paul D’Alessandro, J.D., CFRE, is the author of “The Future of Fundraising: How Philanthropy’s Future is Here with Donors Dictating the Terms.” He’s the founder and President of High Impact Nonprofit Advisors (HNA), and also D’Alessandro Inc. (DAI), which is a fundraising and strategic management consulting company with more than 30 years of experience in the philanthropic sector.

He has worked with hundreds of nonprofits to raise over a billion dollars for his clients in the U.S. and abroad. In addition, as a nonprofit and business expert — who is also a practicing attorney — Paul has worked with high-level global philanthropists, vetting and negotiating their strategic gifts to charitable causes. Paul understands that today’s environment requires innovation and fresh thinking, which is why he launched HNA to train and coach leaders who want to make a difference in the world.  

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

 WHAT WILL THE GUESTS SPEAK ABOUT:

What is the Mission of Hope and Mercy is all about? Why is it so important. What is it about and what is it we are trying to accomplish? Fr Andre and guests will continue to explain how people in the United States can register and subscribe on the Mission website www.missionofhopeandmercy.org in order to donate $50.00 dollars a month to help these charity programs. People in the US need to better understand the problems of the Christian families in Lebanon and other people otherwise the family, its faith, its freedom and its right to economic stability and the pursuit of Happiness is being existentially taken away. Looking at concrete examples, the Mission of Hope and Mercy will share with you every week what are the basic needs for the Christians in Lebanon and how we can help. Jackeline and Mary will explain our programs and will interview leaders in the civil societies of Lebanon and church organizations who are also looking fro help to continue their ministers in making a transformational difference in the life of the people of Lebanon.  Let us love God and our Neighbor by becoming supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy Programs in Lebanon and the US. People can sign up to become monthly donors with donations of $50 dollars or more. 

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Today, with Sister Madonna Azzi, Superior of the Holy Family Catholic School in Akoura, Jbeil District, Mount Lebanon, we will speak about the students and teachers difficulties and hopes. The Catholic Education in Lebanon, the Tuition crisis, the Post covid, the economic collapse and the struggles of the students to receive catholic education.

 Jackeline and Mary will continue to explain how people in the United States can register and subscribe on the Mission website www.missionofhopeandmercy.org in order to donate $50.00 dollars a month to help these charity programs. People in the US need to better understand the problems of the Christian families in Lebanon and other people otherwise the family, its faith, its freedom and its right to economic stability and the pursuit of Happiness is being existentially taken away. Looking at concrete examples, the Mission of Hope and Mercy will share with you every week what are the basic needs for the Christians in Lebanon and how we can help. Jackeline and Mary will explain our programs and will interview leaders in the civil societies of Lebanon and church organizations who are also looking fro help to continue their ministers in making a transformational difference in the life of the people of Lebanon.  Let us love God and our Neighbor by becoming supporters of the Mission of Hope and Mercy Programs in Lebanon and the US. People can sign up to become monthly donors with donations of $50 dollars or more. 

ABOUT THE GUESTS: 

Sister Madonna Azzi,  Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family        

BIO: Sister Madonna is the superior of the School of the Holy Family in Akoura, Jbeil (Byblos) County, Mount Lebanon. 

Mrs. Mary Wehbe, Mission of Hope and Mercy, Case Manager in Lebanon. 

BIO: Single mother for 2 girls. Former employee of the department of Internal Affairs in Lebanon at the office of personal records. 7 years member of the Mission of Hope and Mercy who worked as a volunteer and Mission’s Case Manager. Currently Mary is the treasurer for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in Lebanon. 

Mrs. Jackeline Emmanuel, Mission of Hope and Mercy, in Training Operation Manager. 

BIO:  Jacqueline Awad, graduated from ESA university with a Business/ finance degree. She worked as a freelance accountant and then was employed in Bank Med as senior customer service representative. Jackeline was a top performer over the past 10 years and got promoted 4 times. She now works as the in training Operation manager for the Mission of Hope and Mercy in order to organize and schedule the mission goals, protocols and set targets based on professional standards and norms.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.