View from the Domestic Church

Embracing Motherhood: Embracing your motherhood!

2012-01-28T14:48:00.000-05:00

Embracing Motherhood: Embracing your motherhood!

My vocation of motherhood!

2012-01-28T14:36:00.000-05:00

Jennifer Send reviewed my book Embracing Motherhood. Her review can be seen at Amazon and here:

Another beautifully written book by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle! "Embracing Motherhood" is a must read for all mothers who are striving to be the wives and mothers God has called them to be. Donna-Marie offers many wonderful ideas for passing on the Catholic Faith to our children, through the rich tradition of The Church. She has raised five children and has a lot of wisdom to share with mothers who are raising their children now and are struggling with trying to create a "domestic church" in our families, while fighting the temptations of the culture. Through reading this book, I have a deeper understanding of how important my vocation of motherhood is and how I must keep my eyes focused on Christ, who will give me the strength I need to be the best mother I can be!

Thank you very much, Jennifer! I am so glad that my book has inspired you in your vocation of motherhood. God bless you and your family!

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Article in Publisher's Weekly

2012-01-26T16:34:00.000-05:00

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Article in Publisher's Weekly: Publisher's Weekly includes my Lenten book in it's article: http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/book-news/religion/article/50336-boo...

Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa Review

2012-01-20T21:20:00.002-05:00

available at:
www.donnacooperoboyle.com

A new review on Amazon:

"My children are young, 6, 3 and 1.5 years old. Each year proceeding up this one I have done my Lenten journey "on my own" so to speak. I always kept my eyes open for a family way of sharing Lent and nothing ever caught my eye. The entries are easily understood and simple enough for younger kids and yet they are quite meaningful for us adults. I have to say I have read every book Ms. O'Boyle has written and every time I have felt quite compelled to be the best Catholic mom I could be. This Lenten book from her is no different, and it's something I can introduce Lent to my children with. Maybe not the baby this year, but definitely the other two. I am looking forward to this journey with them and I am very inspired my Ms. O'Boyle's Fasting and Alms giving suggestions. I may have to use them outside of Lent! She makes it oh, so warm and inviting to bring your child (and self) into the Lenten season and our beautiful Catholic faith. Thank you! And God Bless! :)"

Thank you very much, Jennifer Brown. You are very kind. I pray that you and your family are thoroughly blessed this upcoming Lenten season!

God bless and a big hug!

Donna-Marie

The Vocation of Motherhood is extraordinary!

2012-01-20T09:04:00.003-05:00

My guest post about the extraordinary vocation of motherhood over at Franciscan Media (American Catholic) today is here:

http://blog.americancatholic.org/2012/01/ordinary-yet-extraordinary-moments-of-motherhood/

Enjoy reading it and then give yourselves a pat on the back! :)

God bless and a big hug,

Donna-Marie

Audio format of my book available at my website too

Review: Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa

2012-01-19T19:40:00.000-05:00

Here's a new review of Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa from Amazon...

"I love to bring the Liturgical seasons to life in our family. This book does that for the season of Lent. It begins on Ash Wednesday and guides the family through each day. It reminds us that Lent is a period of fasting, abstinence, and prayer. Each day includes a parental reflection, a family prayer, a short story from the life of Mother Teresa, and great idea for fasting and almsgiving. It isn't too wordy or difficult for children to understand. For example, the author suggests for fasting one day, "Ask the children to fast from complaining and grumbling today." And for almsgiving, she suggests, "Encourage the children to pay someone a compliment today." We will use this resource every year."

Thank you very much for your review! God bless you and yours!

Donna-Marie

Bringing Lent Home review

2012-01-18T14:06:00.001-05:00

A new review over at Amazon for my book: Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa by Melanie. Thank you very much, Melanie! I hope you have a beautiful and blessed Lent using this family devotional:

HERE IS HER REVIEW: "I am pleased with my copy of this book. It's a wonderful value for only $2.50! Each day of Lent has 2 pages devoted to reflections, prayers, a brief story from Mother Teresa's life, suggestions for almsgiving and fasting. As an example, one day encourages asking children to fast from complaining and then give away 10 beautiful smiles for almsgiving.

I especially appreciate that there is a reflection for parents, and then also a family prayer for each day. I look forward to sharing this book with my family this year!

The days are not dated, so this is a wonderful Lenten companion for many years."

This book is available autographed from my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com

OY!

2012-01-11T19:30:00.002-05:00

I received a private Face Book message from a woman earlier today which said:

"Gee, Donna. Now that the Archbishop of NY has endorsed your book about motherhood, we can throw the BVM and begin your cause for canonization."

I guess she was referring to the fact that I commented on Archbishop's Dolan's post in which he announced a trip to Rome (a pilgrimage) when he becomes a Cardinal.

And, I replied to this woman in a FB message in response to her message:

"XXXXXXXX, I'm not sure what you are trying to say and why you would approach me like this. May God bless you and yours."

Then, she said:

"THAT is just my point. It is obvious you understand little. Your comments and posts of Archbishop Dolan have turned the Archdiocese of NY into one big animal act of arrogance and self promotion. And may God help us all."

So, I said:

"You are totally mistaken. I commented once. Why didn't you criticize me publicly? Why are you hiding behind a FB message?"

Then, she said:

"I am not hiding at all. It is YOU who are cashing in on religion and reducing the office of Archbishop to a business conducive to your own behalf. You are an obvious member of that EWTN hit parade of Eugene Clark, John Corapi and the like who miscontrue the phrase "made in the image and likeness of God". BTW, you're not within the NY Archdiocese, are you? Not many of Dolan's fans are. Gee.... I wonder why? Please don't take my words as criticism. They are not meant that way....simply observation and overstatement of the obvious. Good luck with that halo you're attempting to build around your head. I hope it's worth it. You have NO idea how many unnecessary abortions are caused by women such as yourself. NO idea."

So, I said:

"I'm wondering if what you have to say in the form of your attacks of me here in the private messages couldn't be said in the public thread on Face Book. Is that because you know how uncharitable you are acting? And where is this all coming from? I don't know you and you don't know me. But, I am praying for you and wish you well."

SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK? I suspect the woman is hurting inside and just lashed out irrationally. Please say a prayer for this woman (and me too!). Thank you and God bless!

Reaching Out to a Love-Starved World

2012-01-11T08:17:00.000-05:00

Reaching Out to a Love-Starved World

Radio Segment regarding Embracing Motherhood!

2012-01-09T09:20:00.001-05:00

I'm on today - click the link and look on the right of the page for "American Catholic Radio." Click that and you'll see info. about my radio segment. It's #12-03. Click the play button and enjoy. :)
http://productions.franciscanmedia.org/

I did this specific radio interview when I was out in Cincinnati visiting my publisher Servant Books to narrate my newly released book: Embracing Motherhood. It was an interesting and fun experience recording the book for the audio format.

Marie Bellet's newest work

2012-01-06T13:35:00.001-05:00

Marie Bellet releases fifth CD – ‘Everything Changes’

Called the ‘Queen of Catholic Pop’ and a ‘Renaissance woman’ for her music

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 6, 2012 – After nine children, an undergraduate degree from Swarthmore and an MBA from Vanderbilt, what’s a mother to do? For Elm Street Records recording artist Marie Bellet, the answer involved returning to the studio with a new batch of original songs.

Her fifth CD, Everything Changes, captures in 14 tracks the role that Faith plays in the joys, sorrows and challenges of marriage and motherhood. It is available now from Ignatius Press. Her other albums include What I Wanted to Say (1997), Ordinary Time (2000), Lighten Up (2003) and A New Springtime (2006).

“The songs on this album reflect my experiences of the past five years – sending my first three sons off to college, starting over with a brand new baby boy and discovering that we do not really have that much control over how things turn out,” Bellet said. “I found that I kept saying to myself, ‘Whenever I think that I know what I am doing, everything changes!’”

Everything Changes includes songs that relate to all different phases of motherhood. Those familiar with Bellet’s earlier work will see this collection as a progression into a new understanding of what love requires of people. They will not, however, hear divergence from the foundation of her music.

“All I have to do is show up with my kids at the grocery store,” she said. “That is where the culture war is fought, surrounded by glossy magazines that promise happiness if you shed pounds and obligations. My songs offer a different vision of what it means to be a fulfilled woman.”

I have the CD and I have to say it's AWESOME!

NY Archbishop Dolan Named Cardinal by Vatican - WNYC

2012-01-06T11:41:00.000-05:00

NY Archbishop Dolan Named Cardinal by Vatican - WNYC

Love the Holy Family!

2012-01-05T21:50:00.001-05:00

"Little" things are not so little!

2012-01-04T08:56:00.002-05:00

Women are entrusted with the human being!

2012-01-02T19:53:00.000-05:00

To be like Martha and Mary

2012-01-01T19:18:00.002-05:00

Challenging Love!

2012-01-01T18:59:00.002-05:00

My visit with Fr. Benedict Groeschel on EWTN's Sunday Night Prime!

2011-12-30T17:49:00.000-05:00

It was wonderful to meet with Fr. Benedict today to record a TV show.

Chatting about our dear mutual friend, Blessed Mother Teresa.

Fr. Benedict is such a gracious host, constantly thanking me for being there while
I wanted to continue to thank HIM for having me!

Stay tuned for our show coming up in Feb. or March of 2012. I'll keep you posted!

For your Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

Do you have songs to share? Share in the comment box. Share a link too if you have one.

Happy Christmas Eve!

hugs,

Donna-Marie

LIVE radio in a few minutes!

2011-12-23T16:28:00.001-05:00

I'll be on the radio in a few minutes chatting about Christmas and traditions and more. You can tune in here:http://www.domesticchurchmedia.org/WFJS1260AM/ListenLive.aspx
Click the "listen live now" button on the right.

Merry Christmas!

hugs,

Donna-Marie

"Jesus" at the Post Office!

2011-12-22T10:19:00.002-05:00

We are always in a rush, especially this time of year. Yet, I think TIME is such a valuable gift to give away at this busy time of year...

Here's a radio segment I did with Teresa Tomeo with a Christmas theme. It's about JESUS AT THE POST OFFICE. I hope you have a few minutes to listen.

Just click here to listen.

Enjoy!

God bless you and warm Advent hugs,

Donna-Marie

Coming very soon!

2011-12-21T09:47:00.000-05:00

From the publisher's website:

"How many mothers actually embrace their vocation? I wonder. How many revel in it all and recognize their role as an actual vocation?"—from the introduction

Celebrating her great love for the family as a "domestic church," Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle leads the reader to a deeper appreciation of the role that motherhood plays in the sanctuary of vibrant family life. Her observations and advice are grounded in personal experience and informed by a profound understanding of the Church's teachings on the feminine genius and the importance of the Christian family in the modern world.

Christmas novena starts today!

2011-12-16T09:01:00.001-05:00

Christmas novena starts today!

Check it out here: http://www.praymorenovenas.com/christmas-novena

Funny video!

2011-12-16T08:47:00.002-05:00

JUST FOR FUN!

Embracing Motherhood book trailer!

2011-12-13T10:38:00.000-05:00

The publisher added an image to the book trailer. You can see the updated version here...

Happy feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe!

2011-12-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

May Our Lady of Guadalupe wrap her mantle around us all!

My book trailer for "Embracing Motherhood" soon to be released!

2011-12-10T10:53:00.001-05:00

I just found out that the publisher is tweaking the book trailer and it will be released again in the near future. I'll keep you posted!

"A Mother's Sanctified Sacrifices" EWTN segment

2011-12-10T10:21:00.000-05:00

Mothers Embracing their Motherhood (Contest)!

2011-12-09T15:36:00.000-05:00

Mothers Embracing their Motherhood (Contest)!

You will love this!

2011-12-07T13:10:00.001-05:00

Tune into my recent radio chat discussing all things Catholic!

2011-12-07T10:32:00.001-05:00

I'm sharing a recent radio show segment where I discuss many Catholic topics with Dina Marie Hale including my friendship with dear Mother Teresa, living in the domestic church, the communion of saints, media--a place to share ideas, and so much more. Make yourself a cup of tea or coffee and give yourself some time to listen in.

Here's the link to get to our radio chat: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/20111109-Donna-Marie-The-Saints.mp3

I hope you enjoy it. Please feel free to leave a comment here.

God bless you as you journey through Advent!

Donna-Marie

View from the Domestic Church: An Advent reflection

2011-12-06T11:06:00.000-05:00

View from the Domestic Church: An Advent reflection

new review for A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers

2011-12-03T12:12:00.002-05:00

Are you trying to figure out a reasonably priced yet meaningful gift or stocking stuffer for a Catholic woman you know? This book may be the answer. It's only $7.95 but is now on sale for a limited time at 20% off at my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com

Here's a recent review of it posted at Amazon.com

This review is from: A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers (Hardcover)

If I only knew Catholic wife, author, and mother of five Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle from reading her books, I would have been looking forward to receiving my copy of her latest one: A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers, but having met this woman in person, kept up with her blogs, and corresponded with her a bit, I was very eager to get mine in the mail. Being a W-O-M-A-N, I was immediately attracted to the beautiful cover and compact size of this book. Both make this a perfect gift, easy to carry in your purse, and pull out to read during those times when God's answer to your prayers is "wait."

Donna-Marie covers a wide array of topics near and dear to the hearts of women. With brief reflections, carefully selected quotes, Scripture verses, and poignant prayers, she takes the reader through the joys and sorrows of what it means to live out our feminine genius in light of the Lord's love, mercy, and grace.

This book is a great way to introduce someone to Donna-Marie's work, since she includes in it some touching stories about her life, reveals her deep level of prayer and devotion to serving Christ, and clearly displays the importance of women in bringing about the sanctification of our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and society as a whole.

She is sensitive to the many challenges women face and encourages us to turn to the Lord for the guidance, strength, love, joy, and gentleness we need to carry out our unique roles as wives, mothers, sisters, spiritual mothers, consecrated religious, grandmothers, and daughters of Our Blessed Mother Mary, the best example of total submission to God the Father and Jesus Christ His only Son.

I love that the quotes she uses throughout are from such a vast variety of sources, because this allows us to see that a number of holy men and women, including saints, popes, and other writers over the centuries have confirmed the dignity and goodness inherent in being female.

I am confident after this taste of Donna-Marie's spiritual wisdom and steadfast faith that many will be eager to check out her web site, take a look at her blog, read her other books, listen to her on the radio, and tune in to her show on EWTN.
*******
Thank you,Trisha Niermeyer Potter "spiritual diva" for your very kind review. May God bless you and yours!

Donna-Marie

Huge sale for First Week of Advent!

2011-11-28T15:10:00.002-05:00

I am having a HUGE sale! While I don't support the craziness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, I decided to offer a 20% off sale of all of my current book titles for this first week of Advent. I think it's great to give a gift of inspiration at Christmas time. You can find the SALE Pay pal buttons on each of the SALE items on my website here: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/books/

Happy shopping! God bless!

Donna-Marie

Vainglory: Seeking the Praise of Men

2011-11-27T11:02:00.000-05:00

Vainglory: Seeking the Praise of Men

Cardinal Burke: Attacks on Unborn are Rooted in ‘Contraceptive Mentality’

2011-11-25T19:53:00.000-05:00

Cardinal Burke: Attacks on Unborn are Rooted in ‘Contraceptive Mentality’

Words to Ponder!

2011-11-18T15:46:00.000-05:00

Words to ponder on a Friday: “Would that mortal men might know how wonderful is divine grace, how beautiful, how precious; what riches are hidden therein, what treasures, what joys, what delights. If they but knew, surely they would direct their energy with all care and diligence to procuring sufferings and afflictions for themselves. Instead of good fortune all men everywhere would seek out troubles, illness and suffering that they might obtain the inestimable treasure of grace. This is the final profit to be gained from patient endurance. No one would complain about the cross or about hardships coming seemingly by chance upon him, if he realized in what balance they are weighed before being distributed to men.”~St. Rose of Lima

Radio Today: "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" LIVE!

2011-11-18T14:48:00.009-05:00

TUNE in today! Check it out below...

Here's a bit of information posted previously (and new information below)...I'm happy to tell you that I'll be doing a new radio show on a regular basis. I'm calling my show "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie." I'll be discussing all kinds of Catholic family issues with Cheryl and Jim Manfredonia of Domestic Church Media Foundation. It will be at 4:15 PM Eastern time on the first Friday of every month. Today is not a first Friday but we needed to reschedule due to a freak snow storm.

Our first couple of segments are on my website http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/

Here's some information to help you tune in today and in the future...

Listeners can tune in through the website http://www.domesticchurchmedia.org/ and click on LISTEN NOW for STREAMING LIVE.

Listeners can also tune in to 1260 AM is for the Trenton/Princeton/Bucks County area

And 89.3 FM is for Freehold/Colts Neck/ Spring Lake area

Blackberry and i-phones have a free APP; simply search for WFJS

On any other hand held type phone, one can go to

http://www.tunein.com/ and search for WFJS and listen that way...also free.

I HOPE YOU CAN JOIN ME!

My next segment for "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" will be TODAY Friday, November 18th at 3:15 Eastern time.

We'll be chatting about all kinds of Catholic things including the saints!

Join us for a soothing "cup of tea!"

Embracing Motherhood: New and Exciting!

2011-11-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

Embracing Motherhood: New and Exciting!

Do you know where your Advent wreath is?

2011-11-16T10:30:00.003-05:00

I was recently in a local shop to buy my daughter a birthday present and Jingle Bells was playing as well as other "holiday" songs! It was only November 10th! On that note, I am posting this fun yet poignant piece below which I received in an email. I hope you like it. :)

Twas the Month before Christmas

Twas the month before Christmas

When all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying

Nor taking a stand.

See the PC Police had taken away

The reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing

About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

December 25th is just a ' Holiday'.

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-Pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen

On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton!

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS,

not Happy Holiday!

Please, all Christians join together and

wish everyone you meet

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Christ is The Reason' for the Christ-mas Season!

If you agree please forward, if not, simply delete.

Get your wreath ready!

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT and even briefly let us know how you will be celebrating the Advent season in your domestic church as well as Christmas. What are some ways you will instill the real reason for the season into your family's hearts as well as to all you come in contact with. I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

A Mother's Never-ending Prayer!

2011-11-09T20:24:00.001-05:00

Radio chat on the saints, motherhood, and Catholic stuff!

2011-11-09T09:21:00.000-05:00

I'll be chatting with Dina Marie Hale this morning on KBVM Radio at 11:00 AM Eastern time. We'll be discussing the saints, motherhood, Mother Teresa, cool stories, and all kinds of good Catholic stuff!

11:00 AM to 12:00 noon Eastern time

Catholic Broadcasting NW 88.3 FM KBVM

PO Box 5888; Portland, OR 97228

503-285-5200 ext. 305 – listen LIVE on: http://www.kbvm.fm

Interview with author Lisa Hendey

2011-11-09T01:00:00.049-05:00

Have you seen Lisa Hendey's newest book? It's beautiful!

Here's a bit of information before our interview:

Notre Dame, IN— M. Hendey, founder of CatholicMom.com and bestselling author of The Handbook for Catholic Moms, again offers her guidance for mothers in the nourishing of heart, mind, body, and soul. In her new book, A Book of Saints for Catholic Moms, Lisa Hendey presents fifty-two saints to act as companions in the many joys —and trials— of motherhood. With charisma and conviction, she applies the wisdom of the saints to a mother’s unique role, highlighting that these individuals “led ordinary lives and yet accomplished extraordinary things.” Lisa chooses men and women whose stories have influenced her personal perspective on motherhood and encourages fellow moms to welcome these Catholic leaders as both role models and long-time friends.

In each of the fifty-two short chapters, one per saint, Lisa Hendey provides:

• A short biography of the saint

• Reflection on the guidance offered by the saint

• Traditions and family activities inspired by the saint

• Daily scripture passages

• A prayer for families to say together

Lisa Hendey’s companions include familiar intercessors such as Francis of Assisi, Teresa of Avila, and Mother Teresa, as well as lesser-known figures like Josephine Bakhita and Mother Théodore Guerin. Hendey marks each chapter with a symbol to signify which dimension —heart, mind, body, or soul—the saint is best known to influence and concludes each chapter with a discussion prompt or journaling question to ponder during the week.

Lisa Hendey’s exploration of the saints is personal yet relatable, tradition-based yet filled with fresh insight. With shared pieces of her own parenting experience, Hendey offers innovative ways in which families can bring the examples of the saints into their homes and closer to their hearts.

And now for our interview:

DONNA-MARIE: Lisa, your newest book is gorgeous! I sincerely think it's a masterpiece! As I read through your beautiful work I feel a sense of peace and even perceive the love in which you put into your writing. I can tell you have a strong devotion to the saints. Can you please give us a little background? For instance, when did you first start reading about and/or praying to the saints?

LISA: Donna-Marie, thank you for your generous comments and support of my work! As you know, it’s a true thrill to see a project you’ve labored over for such a long time be “born” as a book, so thank you for celebrating this time of joy with me!

I’ve had a devotion to the lives of the saints for years. Growing up as the eldest of five children in a Catholic family, the saints were a regular part of our lives. My parents and our favorite Irish priest, a dear family friend, shared their stories and brought them to life in a way that sparked my curiosity from a young age. Additionally, some time in the mid 1980’s, I borrowed an illustrated Lives of the Saints book that my mother had given my father and made reading about a saint each day part of my quiet devotional time. For years, in reading and praying through their intercession each day, I tried to focus on how their lives could inspire my own walk towards heaven. When you read about the saints, you can’t help but be inspired!

2) DONNA-MARIE: I had loved reading the story behind that well-worn saint's book you told about in your book, Lisa. I wholeheartedly agree that reading about the saints will certainly inspire one to strive for holiness. I love the layout of your book--the 52 weeks of inspiration--a saint a week. What do you want to accomplish by laying out the book in this way?

LISA: Honestly, I know so many women (and men too) who desperately desire to have a full, active prayer life and yet who struggle with finding (or making) the time for daily devotions. Along with telling the stories of the saints, I had a great desire to make this book a prayer aid for women like myself. I hope we’ve created a tool that they can use to focus a portion of their day on learning about the saints, reading a small scripture portion, and cherishing a few quiet moments of prayer. In the book, we’ve laid out a format that encourages this daily quiet time. I’ve also written a family prayer through the intercession of each saint that can be prayed together, aloud, around the dinner table, in the morning, or perhaps before bedtime.

We were aiming to make this a book that would support and encourage women and their families to learn to love the saints, to embrace quiet devotional time, and to pray and learn together as a family. The book also contains a variety of indexes that enable the reader to search for a saint by feast day, by patronage, or by the topics discussed in the book. I hope our readers will use the book in whatever way best helps them to gain a strong intercessory relationship with the saints.

3) DONNA-MARIE: You're right, people struggle with lack of time for daily devotions in our fast-paced world. Your book is really is very comprehensive yet not intimidating. How did you choose these particular saints?

LISA: Honestly, choosing fifty-two saints for the book was one of the most challenging but also the most exciting parts of this project. I started with the desire to find saints for each of the four categories in the book: heart, mind, body and soul. The plan was to find thirteen for each of those areas. In the end, I could easily have included so many more saints – the communion of saints is filled with amazing role models of virtue. I organized the book in a way that best fit my relationship with these holy men and women. Along the way, I included many of the members of my “dream team” of saints and discovered several new friends too!

4) DONNA-MARIE: I can imagine how challenging it was to pick them. I once had to choose 32 saints for my prayer book. We are so blessed to have the communion of saints! Can you tell us how the saints have impacted your life, Lisa?

LISA: I turn to them so frequently for their role model of holy living, trying to emulate in my own small way a tiny fraction of the grace they showed in their lives. With almost every saint I study, I am able to take away a lesson from the way they lived that I can endeavor to implement in my own daily life.

Additionally, I firmly believe that our intercessory relationship with the saints can bring great blessing. I pray daily for so many intentions, including the welfare and safety of my husband and sons – I will admit to carrying on a regular “conversation” with their patron saints! I have a few saints who are my regular companions, but when a new or different issue arises one of my first spiritual instincts is to learn more about a saint who can serve as an intercessor in that situation.

DONNA-MARIE: That's great, Lisa. Your family is so fortunate to have your prayers to the saints! Can you share a few of your favorite saints?

LISA: I’ve shared in the book that my personal patroness for many years has been St. Therese of Lisieux. I know, Donna-Marie, that you had a “real life” relationship with Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta and that her impact upon your life has been phenomenal. While I never had occasion to meet the Little Flower in person, I’ve loved coming to know her through her writings. Hers is a spirituality that I can “fit” to my own circumstances. Her desire to serve as a missionary may have seemed counter to the life of a cloistered sister, and yet her path shows me that even in my own little corner of the world if I endeavor to do each task that fills my day with a deep love and if I offer them as my personal prayer, I too can help others to know and love God. I know I will never be a canonized saint – I fall far too short in many ways – but St. Therese reminds me to do my very best every day and to strive for sanctity despite my shortcomings.

In the writing of this book, I discovered some new favorite saints, including St. Andre Bessette, St. Theodore Guerin and St. Gianna Beretta Molla. In truth, they are all my favorites and I meet new saintly friends all the time!

6) DONNA-MARIE: I love St. Therese so much too, as did Blessed Mother Teresa. As I'm sure you know, Bl. Mother Teresa wanted to imitate the "little" Therese not the "big" Teresa (of Avila). It's wonderful that you follow St. Therese's "little way of love." And, honestly, you shouldn't say you'll "never be a canonized saint." You never know! Lisa, what plans do you have for speaking and book signing?

LISA: Thanks for asking Donna-Marie – I’m keeping a fairly active speaking schedule these days that includes large conferences, retreats, parish visits and women’s conferences. Friends who would like to follow my speaking calendar can find it regularly updated at http://lisahendey.com/media/. I’m also happy to “virtually” visit small groups and book clubs via Skype – I’ve done this several times and it’s a great joy to gather with women who have read my books and spend some fun time chatting about their questions and reactions to the content in the books. If your readers are interested in scheduling a Skype date they can contact me by email at lisahendey@gmail.com.

7) DONNA-MARIE: Yes, you sure do keep busy! Sounds wonderful about the skyping with your readership, Lisa. Is there anything else you'd like to tell us about your book or your journey in writing it?

LISA: I do have to share that one highlight in my life happened during the writing of this book. I was invited to attend the first ever “Vatican Bloggers Meeting” in Rome and this event happened immediately after the Beatification of Blessed John Paul II. I was able to be present at the Beatification Mass and the Mass of Thanksgiving the following day. Standing in the Vatican and praying in the company of so many souls who have such a great devotion to “John Paul the Great” was a joy I can never adequately describe. Having the opportunity to pray the Rosary with a group of holy priests as we passed his casket in St. Peter’s was a moment I’ll never forget. This experience happened near the end of my time writing A Book of Saints for Catholic Moms and definitely impacted my chapter on Blessed John Paul II. The truth of the matter is that each of us has had very personal moments with this spiritual giant, and with the entire communion of saints, in our own lives. To be able to pray before his tomb and to thank him for his inspiration and service to our Church was a once in a lifetime experience. But honestly, the entirety of writing this book and coming to know these amazing saints has truly impacted me in ways I could never have anticipated.

8) DONNA-MARIE: That's wonderful, Lisa. And, that must have been such an amazing blessing to be there. I was with you in spirit! I love Blessed Pope John Paul II so much and pray for his intercession each day. I have always been so moved when I have prayed by his tomb. I'm sure the blessings you experienced there at St. Peter's had a profound affect on you when writing the book. Where can we get your book, Lisa?

LISA: Gratefully, the book is available in many Catholic retailers around the country (some are listed here). Additionally, readers can find it at their local Barnes & Noble or online at Amazon.com. Thank you so very much for your kindness, Donna-Marie, in helping us to spread the word about this work. I hope that your readers will visit us at www.CatholicMom.com for additional resources to support them in serving their Domestic Church and living out their vocation.

DONNA-MARIE: You are so very welcome, Lisa. I will certainly send the Catholic moms I know to Catholic Mom for the wonderful resources and Catholic camaraderie you have going on over there. Thank you very much for your time in doing this interview, Lisa and especially for listening to the Holy Spirit and putting in the work required to put out such a beautiful resource for today's Catholic mothers! May God bless everyone who reads your book!

Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa

2011-11-06T22:44:00.005-05:00

I am very happy to report that my upcoming book "Bringing Lent Home with Mother Teresa" published by Ave Maria Press publishing Company which will be available in early January in time for your family Lenten journey and is now listed on Amazon.com here: http://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Lent-Home-Mother-Teresa/dp/1594712867/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_9

I thoroughly enjoyed writing this book and pray it brings much inspiration to families all over!

A description of the books is as follows:

This daily companion for families draws from the wisdom of Mother Teresa, guiding parents and children alike to put her words into practice and “do small things with great love.” While most Lenten booklets focus on individual or small groups, this booklet is for families. Parents can pause and pray each day by reading a short quotation from Mother Teresa and using the Reflection for Parents as a touch point for their own prayer.

It then provides the resources a parent needs to gather the family together for a time of prayer and conversation. Family prayer time that includes the quotation from Mother Teresa and a story about her life is followed by practical suggestions on how to put into practice each day the threefold call of Lent: to fast, pray, and give alms or care for the poor.

On Sundays, the focus is drawn from the themes assigned to that Sunday of Lent and a project for the week ahead is suggested. The booklet can be used with any of the three Catholic lectionary cycles and is designed for use with children through preteen years.

This book is available from my website www.donnacooperoboyle.com and from the publisher Ave Maria Press, as well as Amazon.

Snow, snow, snow, no power and traveling!

2011-11-03T14:18:00.001-04:00

I had a very nice trip to my publisher's in Cincinnati recently to record an audio version of my upcoming book Embracing Motherhood. I'm very excited about it. It'll be released in January.

I'll be leaving for Michigan tomorrow to give a talk in Kalamazoo, MI.

Please keep me in your prayers for safe travel, dear friends! Thank you in advance! I'll write another post soon to fill you in.

God bless!
Donna-Marie

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Interview with Teresa Tomeo on Extreme Makeover

2011-10-28T15:48:00.000-04:00

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Interview with Teresa Tomeo on Extreme Makeover: I have recently had the blessing of interviewing a dear friend, fellow author, and colleague, Tersa Tomeo about her newest book Extreme Ma...

A Whirlwind of Activity in Cincinnati!

2011-10-26T23:53:00.000-04:00

After being video-interviewed for the book trailers

I just visited my publisher Servant Books in Cincinnati to produce an audio version of my upcoming book Embracing Motherhood which is due to be released in January 2012. It was a very interesting experience to record the audio version of the book which took a full day and part of the next. Afterwards, I was interviewed for a radio show and then was video-interviewed for a couple of book trailers for this book. I enjoyed being with all of the wonderful folks there.

First day of recording Embracing Motherhood

Second day of recording here with my producer, Sharon

Stay tuned! I'll be back with more information about my upcoming book Embracing Motherhood!

In honor of Blessed Pope John Paul II: A Review of "You are my Hope"

2011-10-22T11:13:00.002-04:00

Today is the feast day of Blessed Pope John Paul II. I am blessed to be part of a review team for a special project produced by CCC of America about Blessed John Paul II called "The Man, The Pope, and His Message." It is a re-release of a series of documentaries comprised of a 4-disc DVD series which contains five hours of footage providing an in-depth look at Bl. Pope John Paul II's life, papcy, and message.

CCC of America has made special arrangements with the Vatican and Alberto Michelini, the renouned Italian journalist to produce this series.

The press release regarding the reviewers of this project is here (my review will follow): Ushering in the celebration of Blessed John Paul II’s October 22nd feast day on the anniversary of his inauguration as pope in 1978, CCC of America is partnering with 10 popular Catholics in the Blogosphere for a special project on his legacy. With footage secured through special arrangements with the Vatican, CCC recently released John Paul II: The Man, The Pope and His Message, a Special Edition remastered multi-DVD documentary series providing an intimate portrait of this iconic Church and World Leader. Each of the 10 short films, directed and produced by renowned Italian Journalist, Alberto Michelini, will be reviewed by 10 Catholic leaders in Catholic New Media.

The Blogroll of notable reviewers of this series includes the following:

Lisa Hendey, founder/editor of CatholicMom.com, author, columnist, speaker, podcast and TV host.
Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle, author, journalist, EWTN TV Host, Blogger, radio host, and speaker.
Lisa Mladinich, founder of www.AmazingCatechists.com, author, columnist, speaker, creator of catechetical puppet script ministry, and podcast host.
Fr. John Bartunek LC, ThD, news commentator, served as the English-language press liaison for the Vatican’s 2005 Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist, author, Ethics teacher, founder of RCSpiritual Direction.com, contributor at Faith & Family.
Matt Warner, founder of flockNote.com and FallibleBlogma.com, blogger at the National Catholic Register.
Gary Zimak, Catholic Lay Evangelist, founder of Following the Truth, writer, and Radio Host.
Elizabeth Scalia, the Managing Editor of the Catholic Portal at Patheos, a columnist at First Things, and the blogger known as The Anchoress.
Leticia Velasquez, founder of Catholic Media Review, Causa Nostrae Laetitiae, and Cause of Our Joy, freelance writer, speaker, film and book reviewer.
Steven R. McEvoy, freelance writer, reviewer at Catholic Dads Online, founder of Book Reviews and More.
Deacon Greg Kandra, Roman Catholic deacon serving the Diocese of Brooklyn, veteran broadcast journalist who served 25+ years as an award-winning writer/producer for CBS News in both NY and WA, blogger at The Deacon’s Bench.

Reviews will be posted on each blogger’s site between October 19 – 22, 2011, with links to all 10 on CCC’s Facebook page and the official film website at www.johnpaulseries.com. The 10 volumes within the series provide critical insights into the most central message of this beloved Pope: From rallies with thousands of youth, to critical inter-faith relations, as well as his role with the fall of Communism, the five hours of footage contained in this series unlocks what was in the heart of the Holy Father.

Supporters of Blessed John Paul II, the reviewers of these films will create more opportunities for the messages of this hero of the Faith to become even more personal. CCC of America is honored to collaborate on such an inspiring project with some of the Church’s biggest movers and shakers in new media.

The trailer and more details on the series, as well as educational resources, are available through the official film site: http://www.johnpaulseries.com/.

ABOUT CCC OF AMERICA: A trusted leader in family entertainment for more then 25 years, CCC (Creative Communications Center) of America is committed to the production and distribution of quality family entertainment that is not only engaging, but also conveys moral values. This media company is determined to provide wholesome fun for families, wherein they discover stories of real heroes of the faith who lived lives of courage, love and truth. Original award-winning CCC productions include: 11 DVDs in the Saints & Heroes Animated Film Series, and a feature film Crystalstone. CCC of America possesses the rights to distribute additional DVD movies and music CDs that are in line with our moral standards and core religious beliefs.

And now for my review of Volume Two: "You are my Hope" John Paul II and the Youth

Blessed. Pope John Paul II is a hero to me so to see him in this series really warms and inspires my heart. Although, he was a regal pope, he was no stranger to hardship. He understood what it was like to grow up with intense challenge and always wholeheartedly challenged the youth of today to reach for holiness no matter what. His message was often demanding but the youth responded to it with great enthusiasm. The greater the challenge from Bl. John Paul II to the youth, the greater the applause from the youth at all his visits with them.

The young people never failed to exude enthusiasm and great emotion being in the presence of Bl. Pope John Paul II. Their spiritual father told them, "You are my hope. You are the hope of the Church." The youth always came to hear the message of their dear Papa.

"If you want peace open your hearts to Christ." He constantly challenged them to consistently strive for peace and lead lives of holiness. He told them, "Jesus Christ gives hope and meaning to our lives."

"If you want peace, work for justice. If you want peace, proclaim the truth. If you want peace, treat others as you want them to treat you. In short, if you want peace, you must love."

Bl. Pope John Paul II viewed youth as a key stage in every person's life. He understood the restless heart of young people, a heart that unceasingly seeks an answer to the meaning of life and their future. He never cased to set ambitious goals of holiness for youth.

"Be perfect as your Father who is in heaven is perfect" he would tell them.

It was so important for Bl. Pope John Paul II to meet with the youth wherever he traveled. He took more than 100 trips in Italy alone and there was always a crowd of youth waiting to see him.

"Be ready to commit your life every day to transform history."

And, he encouraged them with such loving words, "The future of the world shines in your eyes."

Volume Two of this DVD series shows moving narrated clips of Pope John Paul II with various groups of youth around the world. Pope John Paul II had such an amazing way with youth. His love for them showed immensely through their embraces, their conversations, their repartee, their prayers together.

Bl. John Paul II's words to youth speak to all of our hearts. "To be truly free does not in any way mean to do what I like, to do what I want to do. Freedom contains in itself the criterion of truth, the discipline of truth. To be truly free means using one's own freedom for what is a true good. Therefore to be free means to be a man of upright conscience."

I wholeheartedly recommend this beautiful documentary film series and am looking forward to watching it in its entirety along with my family. CCC of America has done a fine job in bringing the fruits of Bl. Pope John Paul II's legacy to life to inspire us further on our journeys of holiness.

We can all put Bl. John Paul the Great's words into practice: "Be strong in your faith. Do not be afraid to bear witness to it wherever you are. Always be ready to give reason for the hope that is within you."

J P 2, we LOVE you! Please intercede for youth and all of us on this your feast day, dear Papa!

"Instilling Prayer in Our Children"

2011-10-21T13:37:00.001-04:00

Catholic Bloggers Unite for Blessed John Paul II Project

2011-10-19T12:20:00.003-04:00

Prominent Bloggers Unite for Blessed John Paul II Project

I am blessed to be a part of this project. Here is the press release:

LAS COLINAS, TX. – OCT 17, 2011. Ushering in the celebration of Blessed John Paul II’s October 22nd feast day on the anniversary of his inauguration as pope in 1978, CCC of America is partnering with 10 popular Catholics in the Blogosphere for a special project on his legacy. With footage secured through special arrangements with the Vatican, CCC recently released John Paul II: The Man, The Pope and His Message, a Special Edition remastered multi-DVD documentary series providing an intimate portrait of this iconic Church and World Leader. Each of the 10 short films, directed and produced by renowned Italian Journalist, Alberto Michelini, will be reviewed by 10 Catholic leaders in Catholic New Media.

The Blogroll of notable reviewers of this series includes the following:

Lisa Hendey, founder/editor of CatholicMom.com, author, columnist, speaker, podcast and TV host.

Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle, author, journalist, EWTN TV Host, Blogger, radio host, and speaker.

Lisa Mladinich, founder of www.AmazingCatechists.com, author, columnist, speaker, creator of catechetical puppet script ministry, and podcast host.

Fr. John Bartunek LC, ThD, news commentator, served as the English-language press liaison for the Vatican’s 2005 Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist, author, Ethics teacher, founder of RCSpiritual Direction.com, contributor at Faith & Family.

Matt Warner, founder of flockNote.com and FallibleBlogma.com, blogger at the National Catholic Register.

Gary Zimak, Catholic Lay Evangelist, founder of Following the Truth, writer, and Radio Host.

Elizabeth Scalia, the Managing Editor of the Catholic Portal at Patheos, a columnist at First Things, and the blogger known as The Anchoress.

Leticia Velasquez, founder of Catholic Media Review, Causa Nostrae Laetitiae, and Cause of Our Joy, freelance writer, speaker, film and book reviewer.

Steven R. McEvoy, freelance writer, reviewer at Catholic Dads Online, founder of Book Reviews and More.

Deacon Greg Kandra, Roman Catholic deacon serving the Diocese of Brooklyn, veteran broadcast journalist who served 25+ years as an award-winning writer/producer for CBS News in both NY and WA, blogger at The Deacon’s Bench.

Reviews will be posted on each blogger’s site between October 19 – 22, 2011, with links to all 10 on CCC’s Facebook page and the official film website at www.johnpaulseries.com. The 10 volumes within the series provide critical insights into the most central message of this beloved Pope: From rallies with thousands of youth, to critical inter-faith relations, as well as his role with the fall of Communism, the five hours of footage contained in this series unlocks what was in the heart of the Holy Father.

Supporters of Blessed John Paul II, the reviewers of these films will create more opportunities for the messages of this hero of the Faith to become even more personal. CCC of America is honored to collaborate on such an inspiring project with some of the Church’s biggest movers and shakers in new media.

The trailer and more details on the series, as well as educational resources, are available through the official film site: http://www.johnpaulseries.com/.

ABOUT CCC OF AMERICA: A trusted leader in family entertainment for more then 25 years, CCC (Creative Communications Center) of America is committed to the production and distribution of quality family entertainment that is not only engaging, but also conveys moral values. This media company is determined to provide wholesome fun for families, wherein they discover stories of real heroes of the faith who lived lives of courage, love and truth. Original award-winning CCC productions include: 11 DVDs in the Saints & Heroes Animated Film Series, and a feature film Crystalstone. CCC of America possesses the rights to distribute additional DVD movies and music CDs that are in line with our moral standards and core religious beliefs.

Mother Teresa and Me article

2011-10-17T13:31:00.000-04:00

Here's an article about my book: "Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship."

http://catholiclane.com/mother-teresa-and-me-and-me-too/

I hope you enjoy it. God bless!

Donna-Marie

A Mother's Never-Ending Prayers!

2011-10-13T21:54:00.001-04:00

One of my segments of my EWTN series: "Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms."

A DVD of Season One which contains 25 episodes is available at my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com

Tomorrow Morning's Radio Interview

2011-10-13T21:43:00.001-04:00

Tune in to tomorrow's radio interview:

~Friday, October 14 at 10:00 AM Eastern time

"Blessed John Paul the Great's Leafeaters' Club"

Chatting about my book "Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship"
10:00 - 11:00 AM (Eastern)
CST, KFHC, 88.1 Catholic Radio, Sioux City IA.
www.FHCradio.com

The Blessed Mother and Mother Teresa

2011-10-12T20:31:00.001-04:00

My recent radio segment on my show "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" is

http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/donna-marie%2010-7-11.mp3

here if you'd care to listen. Cheryl, Jim, and I discuss the Blessed Mother and Mother Teresa among other things.

Enjoy!

Carving Out Time for Prayer

2011-10-12T12:06:00.000-04:00

EWTN has published one of my episodes of "Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms" on You Tube. You can see it here:

http://youtu.be/1T3NUN09IN4

Or just click below:

A Little Boy's Explanation of God

2011-10-11T17:02:00.001-04:00

A Little Boy's Explanation of God --

It was written by an 8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula Vista , CA . He wrote it for his third grade homework assignment, to "explain God."
EXPLANATION OF GOD:

One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die, so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to take up his valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers.

God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because he hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in his ears, unless he has thought of a way to turn it off.

God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.

Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any in Chula Vista . At least there aren't any who come to our church.

Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him preaching to them and they crucified him. But he was good and kind, like his father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K.

His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.

You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.

You should always go to church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!

Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.

If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.

But...you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and he can take me back anytime he pleases.

And...that's why I believe in God.

"A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie" Airs Today!

2011-10-07T13:52:00.000-04:00

TUNE in today! Check it out below...

Here's a bit of information posted previously (and new information below)...I'm happy to tell you that I'll be doing a new radio show on a regular basis. I'm calling my show "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie." I'll be discussing all kinds of Catholic family issues with Cheryl and Jim Manfredonia of Domestic Church Media Foundation. It will be at 4:15 PM Eastern time on the first Friday of every month.
Our first couple of segments are on my website http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/

Here's some information to help you tune in today and in the future...

Listeners can tune in through the website http://www.domesticchurchmedia.org/ and click on LISTEN NOW for STREAMING LIVE.

Listeners can also tune in to 1260 AM is for the Trenton/Princeton/Bucks County area
And 89.3 FM is for Freehold/Colts Neck/ Spring Lake area
Blackberry and i-phones have a free APP; simply search for WFJS

On any other hand held type phone, one can go to

http://www.tunein.com/ and search for WFJS and listen that way...also free.

I HOPE YOU CAN JOIN ME!

My next segment for "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" will be TODAY Friday, October 7th, Feast of the Holy Rosary at 4:15 Eastern time.

We'll be chatting about the Blessed Mother, the Rosary, and Blessed Mother Teresa!

Join us for a soothing "cup of tea!"

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Teresa Tomeo's "Extreme Make Over"

2011-10-06T17:21:00.000-04:00

Daily Donna-Marie: A Dose of Inspiration: Teresa Tomeo's "Extreme Make Over"

Marie Bellet's new CD!

2011-10-06T10:01:00.003-04:00

Have you heard about Marie Bellet's new CD?

I have really enjoyed her music.. I am looking forward to listening to her newest CD. Here's a short press release and words from Marie explaining her music...

(Nashville, TN) In August of 2011 music artist, Marie Bellet, once dubbed the Queen of Catholic Pop, will be releasing her long awaited fifth album. A stay-at-home mother of nine, Marie once defied industry expectations by selling nearly 40,000 albums without the help of a record label or a marketing team. Now, a popular speaker at Marriage and Family conferences, Marie Bellet inspires thousands of housewives and husbands throughout the United States and Canada by sharing her profound perspective on life and family.

“In the past I’d written mostly about everyday family life, raising kids at home where everything was sweet and secure. Now that three of mine have left home, and one of those is in the military about to be deployed, these new songs are about learning a more detached love. Detached love doesn’t always feel good and it asks so much more of us. Many of these songs are to encourage my kids as they make their way out into the world. Some are to encourage myself and other parents who are in the trenches, doing the same thing. When kids leave home it redefines everything you’ve been doing for the past 20 years. It makes each day so much more important, and each face so much more beautiful. And, I must admit, it puts you in your place.” says Marie Bellet.

Exciting Announcement: DVD now Available!

2011-10-04T14:34:00.000-04:00

Back and front of new DVD

I am very excited to announce that my DVD (Season 1) of my EWTN TV series: "Everyday Blessings for Catholic Moms" is now available for purchase. I am having a sale at my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com on the "TV" page and the "New and Exciting" page.

St. Therese of Lisieux: A Close Friend and Powerful Intercessor

2011-10-01T09:46:00.000-04:00

St. Therese of Lisieux: A Close Friend and Powerful Intercessor

Happy feast of St. Therese!

My recent experiences in the hospital

2011-09-30T14:58:00.000-04:00

I'm sharing a glimpse of my recent experiences with my husband in the hospital. It's called, "Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry!" I hope you get a chance to read it. If you like it, click the "like" button at the website please.

The article is here: http://catholiclane.com/%e2%80%9cpray-hope-and-don%e2%80%99t-worry%e2%80%9d/

May you all be blessed!

Donna-Marie

Unveiling my new book - "Embracing Motherhood"

2011-09-29T21:53:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to unveil my new book cover for my book Embracing Motherhood! An audio version of the book will be available too! I'll be taping the audio with my publisher soon. Both are due to release in January 2012.

I'll be bringing you more information about this book soon. God bless!

Recent RADIO segment on "Wake Up Baton Rouge"

2011-09-27T15:03:00.000-04:00

In case you'd like to listen to my recent interview on "Wake up Baton Rouge."

It's right here!

We chat about Mother Teresa and my new book Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship. http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/Donna_Marie_0659.mp3

Radio interview with Teresa Tomeo about Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship

2011-09-27T14:32:00.004-04:00

ON SALE NOW AT WEBSITE
www.donnacooperoboyle.com

My chat this morning with my dear friend Teresa Tomeo on "Catholic Connection" on Ave Maria Radio can be found here in case you didn't get a chance to tune in:
http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/CC%20DMCOB%2009-27-11.mp3

We discussed Blessed Mother Teresa and my new book: Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship.

ENJOY!

God bless you!

Donna-Marie

Tune in tomorrow morning to "Wake up Baton Rouge"

2011-09-19T10:36:00.002-04:00

I'll be on "Wake Up Baton Rouge" tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at 8:30 AM EASTERN time chatting about dear Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.

Here's a bit of information so you can tune in. Simply go to www.brcatholicradio.com and click the "Listen Now" button or you can download the TuneIn Radio App on your smartphones. It's a free app and you just search for WPYR and just listen. I believe you can save it as a preference too.

I hope you'll be able to join us by tuning in to our conversation.

God bless!

Donna-Marie

Radio segment regarding Back-to-school, home-school, and college

2011-09-19T10:06:00.000-04:00

How's your children's school year going at home as you home-school or at their school or college? Here's a recent radio program of me chatting with Cheryl and Jim on Domestic Church Media during my show "A Cup of tea With Donna-Marie. We're talking about all kinds of back-to-school types of things.

Just click here to listen.

2011-09-19T10:04:00.000-04:00

She says it's, "an inspiring book about two beautiful souls."

2011-09-14T11:44:00.002-04:00

This review found on Amazon today...

Put simply, "Mother Teresa and Me" is an inspiring book about two beautiful souls.

I often dream of what it would have been like to have had a personal friendship with Mother Teresa, one of my greatest heroes! While I was not blessed with the realization of this particular dream, I was able to delight in reading about Donna-Marie's friendship with Mother Teresa. The relationship between them was simple, peaceful, inspirational, full of great wisdom, faith-filled and centered on God's Love.

"Mother Teresa and Me" invites the reader to strengthen their relationship with God by serving others. And each account of Mother Teresa's saintly deeds moves the soul in a simple and yet profound way....

Thank you, Donna-Marie, for so generously sharing your friendship with Mother Teresa with us.

"Do something beautiful for God." Mother Teresa of Calcutta

*******

Thank you very much for your kind words in your beautiful review, Elizabeth! May God bless you and yours and may dear Mother Teresa continue to inspire you!

Donna-Marie

A note about ordering: You may order autographed copies from my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com (I'm having a sale there!), get a copy from the publisher, Our Sunday Visitor Pub. Co., your local Catholic bookstore, Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Welcoming the new Religious Education year!

2011-09-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

Well, CCD for me starts tomorrow. Oh, wait, I am dating myself. I should probably say that "Religious Education" or "Faith Formation" will begin tomorrow. I've been teaching Religious Education for over 25 years now! I've taught at every grade level. I'll be teaching 5th grade this year which is pretty neat because I'll have some of my fourth-graders from last year. I'm looking forward to seeing some familiar faces, greeting new ones and starting a new school year with the kids. It should be fun and rewarding, please God!

To get ready for it, my co-teacher and I met before the Blessed Sacrament a couple of weeks ago and prayed a decade of the Rosary together for the upcoming Religious Education year. We then met for over an hour or so (it was meant to be a shorter time but we enjoyed it so much!) to discuss the year ahead and catch up too. It was a blessed time.

How's your Religious Education going in your homeschooling environment or at your parish? Are you about to begin? What plans do you have to get the kids excited this year? I hope you'll share in the comment box below. I'd love to hear. Or, feel free to ask any questions you might have about teaching or Faith Formation.

God bless!

Donna-Marie

Happy Inspiration day!

2011-09-10T12:18:00.002-04:00

Happy Inspiration day! On Sept. 10, 1946, while Blessed Mother Teresa was traveling on a train to Darjeeling for her annual retreat, she received an invitation from Jesus to take care of the poorest of the poor and to found the Missionaries of Charity Religious Order. Mother Teresa later referred to that momentous occasion as the day she received "a call within a call." The Missionaries of Charity celebrate this day annually. ASK FOR INSPIRATION TODAY!

My chat with Drew about Mother Teresa

2011-09-06T18:35:00.000-04:00

In case you didn't get a chance to catch my interview with Drew Mariani show on Relevant Radio, go to the archives here:

http://relevantradio.com/audios/the-drew-mariani-show

Look for today's date (September 6th) and click on the "MP3" for "Hour 1" My short chat is at about the "12:38" mark, in case you want to skip forward to hear it. It's at the end of the Hour One.

But, by all means, check out the whole episode if you have time.

Voting!

2011-09-06T14:39:00.001-04:00

Help me get my face on a billboard in Times Square! Wouldn't it be nice to get a good and positive message on a billboard to counteract the bad ones, even if it's for a short period of time? I'm trying to raise awareness of the poor whom dear Mother Teresa loved and cared for so tenderly.

It's easy to vote, just head to my about.me page and click "vote":
http://about.me/Donnamarie/.

Remember, you can vote once a day until September 20th.
"Every vote counts!" they say.

Thank you for considering!

Happy feast of Mother Teresa!

2011-09-05T19:11:00.001-04:00

My article Mother Teresa and Calcutta in our Midst published today at Catholic Lane:

http://catholiclane.com/mother-teresa-and-calcutta-in-our-midst/

Happy feast of Blessed Mother Teresa!

Back to School at "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie"

2011-09-03T16:10:00.007-04:00

In my recent radio segment, "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie," Cheryl and Jim, radio hosts at Domestic Church Media and I chatted about back-to-school, college, and home-schooling tips from a Catholic parent's perspective. I'll provide some of it here...

When we near the end of August and early September a lot of parents begin to stress out a bit – knowing that they must change gears and even brace themselves for a new school year – whether it be in their own home as in the case of the home schooling parent or back to the school building – public or Catholic schools.

Some young adults have headed back to college or will embark upon that new chapter of their life for the first time while others are stepping over the thresholds of the Kindergarten classroom doorway ready to begin their early education in the classroom.

This all means that the lazy or even busy days of summer have come to a necessary, sometimes seemingly screeching halt (why is summer over?!) and we start getting to bed earlier, we rise earlier and we have to adjust to a new school year schedule.

Change and transitions can be challenging to both the parent and the child alike. For the parent – having to let go a bit when the child leaves for school or college can be tough.

As much as I know that our young adults need to spread their wings and experience life at college, out on their own, or in the work place, after graduating high school, my mother’s heart finds it to be a bittersweet time!

I’ll never forget bringing my fourth child, my son, Joseph to college. I had to wear my sunglasses all the way home to hide the tears that kept welling up in my eyes! I couldn’t believe that this son of mine was old enough to be on his own and to live at a college dorm!

So, Moms and dads, and perhaps mostly the Moms, you don’t have to feel silly or embarrassed if you shed a few tears but try to hang onto the hope and courage that comes through prayer as you usher your children – the little saints you are entrusted with to raise to heaven – off to school.

This same feeling may be experienced by the mother who sends her child off to Kindergarten for the first time too. All kinds of feelings and transitions are going on. As well, of course, we have the feelings of our children to contend with too. So, we prod them forth and give them encouragement.

Within the many educational settings: home, the school building – public, private, or Catholic, and college...

What can help in the transitioning process for the parent and child?

I have about 8 tips to pass along:

1) Prayer goes right at the top of the list.

a) Parents pray together for their children.

b) The family prays together.

c) Children need to be encouraged by parents to pray at home and in school as needed. Even though we are very aware of separation of Church and State, etc., it's important to impress upon our children that they can pray any time they want (silently within their hearts) and no one can take that from them.

2) Communication is paramount: with our spouse, children, and teachers.

3) Planning: for lessons and for schedules, lunches, and more. A little bit of planning goes a long way! Try to get some things done the night before. Try a dry erase board on the kitchen wall and each day update it with the schedule. Add a little prayer, even, “God, help me!”

4) SLEEP: Get enough to better cope with the day ahead – it’s so important.

5) Organization: helps for smooth mornings, stress no technology before school – games, TV, etc., Add prayer and communication instead. Talking things out eases worried little minds – and big ones too!

6) Stick to schedules, but be patient with yourself and your children when a wrench is thrown into the works, a child is sick, the alarm doesn’t go off because the power went off, or any number of things. TRY not to set yourself up for failure by thinking everything will go perfectly smoothly. Sometimes, more often than not, so much grace is discovered in the difficulties, when picking up the pieces and even trying to smile about it. Just do your best!

7) Stay positive! SMILE! A simple smile speaks volumes and makes the best of trying times. As an example, when I was a little girl I got in trouble at school for speaking to a friend in the hallway. I was so shocked to get in trouble! I felt horrible and embarrassed. But when I went home, my mother’s warm and understanding embrace melted all of my sadness. I thought I had failed, but she showed me otherwise. A parent’s love is powerful!

8) Finally, be firm – but loving. Kids can try to wiggle out of their responsibilities at home and at school, but your keen eye and loving encouragement will keep them on task.

Prayer Tips

Regarding correcting our children and keeping them on task, I’d like to point to my prayer on pg. 26 of my Catholic Mothers Prayer Book, entitled Mother’s Prayer to Correct a Child Properly…

Dear Lord, along with the incredible gift of motherhood, comes the sacred rand weighty responsibility in teaching and correcting my children. Help me to never shirk from my duty of correction according to Your holy will. May I realize that I take the place and speak for You, so may I be worthy of that trust. Help me never correct my children in anger but always in a calm and motherly manner and punish with a gentle firmness born of mother love. Amen

As well as my prayer in the same book, The Most Essential Teachings…

Dear Lord, help me to see that some of the most essential teachings to my impressionable children are in my example and actions. My actions are much more articulate than my words can ever be. Some of the most important lessons in life are learned when watching one whom is respected and loved. Help me to be mindful of my choices and the critical examples I give my children. Remind me, too that my prayer life spills over into my family and will help to enhance their grasp of prayer and their understanding of what is most essential. Amen.

Get involved if you can with your child’s education at school. You are already very involved if you home-school your children. But, if they go off to school, see if you can volunteer in some capacity, which is great for both you and your children.

Naturally, as a Catholic parent, you are very responsible for your child’s education and our Church considers you to be the first and foremost educator. So, be sure that everything is kosher with regards to the material being taught – investigate – speak up if you have to, but be sure your child is getting a sound and safe education.

Let's keep in mind what our Church teaches" "Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children" (CCC # 2223).

And, "The role of parents in education is of such importance that it is almost impossible to provide an adequate substitute" (CCC # 2221). And there are many more references to the great importance of a parent's involvement in their children's education. Pick up the Catechism and take a look.

When trying to discern what committees to join, perhaps a prayer from my book A Catholic Woman’s Book of Prayers may help on pg. 31:

Help Me to Find Balance, Lord

You have given me the heart of a woman,

which wants to stretch beyond measure

to ease the pain of others.

Remind me, Lord,

to fix my eyes on my family first,

and fulfill their needs

according to Your holy will

before I attempt to look elsewhere.

Help me to know when to say "yes"

and when to say "no"

so that I don't over-commit

and can properly serve

You, my family, and others,

remembering that "love begins at home."

Finally, I think Blessed Pope John Paul II’s beautiful words to mothers can help to uplift our spirits: He said (on pg. 15) in A Catholic Woman’s Book of Prayers…

"Thank you, women who are mothers! You have sheltered human beings within yourselves in a unique experience of joy and travail. This experience makes you become God's own smile upon the newborn child, the one who guides your child's first steps, who helps it to grow, and who is the anchor as the child makes its way along the journey of life."~Bl. Pope John Paul II (Mulieris Dignitatem: On the Dignity and Vocation of Woman)

"A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie" and finding a balance...

2011-09-02T19:59:00.005-04:00

Jim, Cheryl, and I launched our new segment, "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie" today. We chatted about back-to-school, off to college, and homeschooling. I'll post a link to the segment from today soon.

In the meantime, I'll offer a prayer for the busy Moms trying to get in sync with new schedules and kids starting school. It's tempting to sign up for all of the volunteer opportunities. While you want to help a bit and get involved, you don't have to do everything! Focus on your family first...

Help Me to Find Balance, Lord

You have given me the heart of a woman,

which wants to stretch beyond measure

to ease the pain of others.

Remind me, Lord,

to fix my eyes on my family first,

and fulfill their needs

according to Your holy will

before I attempt to look elsewhere.

Help me to know when to say "yes"

and when to say "no"

so that I don't over-commit

and can properly serve

You, my family, and others,

remembering that "love begins at home."

(from my book, A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers, Our Sunday Visitor Pub. Co.)

Very soon, I'll post my 8 tips to help bring peace, prayer, and focus to the transitional time of back-to-school that we chatted about on the show. Stay tuned and God bless!

"A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie" airs TODAY!

2011-09-02T12:57:00.005-04:00

TUNE in today! Check it out below...

Here's a bit of information posted previously (and new information below)...I'm happy to tell you that I'll be doing a new radio show on a regular basis. I'm calling my show "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie." I'll be discussing all kinds of Catholic family issues with Cheryl and Jim Manfredonia of Domestic Church Media Foundation. It will be at 4:15 PM Eastern time on the first Friday of every month.
Our introductory segment was done in person with Cheryl and Jim at the Catholic Networking Network conference http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/Donna-Marie-CMN.mp3 held at the Valley Forge Convention Center in King of Prussia, PA (just outside of Philly).

Here's some information to help you tune in today and in the future...

Listeners can tune in through the website http://www.domesticchurchmedia.org/ and click on LISTEN NOW for STREAMING LIVE.
Listeners can also tune in to 1260 AM is for the Trenton/Princeton/Bucks County area
And 89.3 FM is for Freehold/Colts Neck/ Spring Lake area
Blackberry and i-phones have a free APP; simply search for WFJS

On any other hand held type phone, one can go to

http://www.tunein.com/ and search for WFJS and listen that way...also free.

I HOPE YOU CAN JOIN ME!

My next segment for "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" will be TODAY Friday, September 2nd at 4:15 Eastern time. We'll be chatting about prayer and back-to-school kinds of things, including first day of school, back to college, and home school too. :)

Join us for a soothing "cup of tea!"

My EWTN Bookmark interview with Doug Keck

2011-08-29T11:37:00.012-04:00

On the set of EWTN's Bookmark with Doug Keck

Here's the video (below) of my recent EWTN Bookmark interview with Doug Keck in which we discuss my books Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship and A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers as well as a bit about my ministry. I also mention a new book coming out too!

EWTN's Bookmark!

2011-08-28T18:20:00.027-04:00

My interview on EWTN's Bookmark show was aired this morning and it will also air tonight at 11:30 PM.

Here's the schedule:

Sunday, August 28, 9:30 AM & 11:30 PM; Monday, August 29, 5 AM; Wednesday, August 31, 5:30 PM

Here's the information I posted a couple of days ago:

http://viewdomesticchurch.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-ewtn-bookmark-episode-coming-up.html

Host, Doug Keck and I discuss two of my books: Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship and A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers. It was delightful seeing Doug again. I hope you enjoy our interview.

Mother Teresa and Me!

2011-08-28T12:05:00.001-04:00

Due to release soon and just featured on EWTN's Bookmark show this morning!

This is what Our Sunday Visitor Publishing Company is saying...

Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship

by Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle

A brush with fame blossomed into something far more spiritual, much longer lasting -- and infinitely more beautiful ...

Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle will never forget the first time she laid eyes on Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Hunched, frail, shorter than one of Donna's own children, the aging servant of the poorest of the poor cut an unassuming figure awaiting the start of Mass with Her Missionary of Charity sisters. They would speak briefly after the liturgy and then spend the next ten years intermittently sharing hopes, dreams, and prayers through the mail and in face-to-face conversations.

In Mother Teresa and Me, Donna-Marie invites you to step inside her deeply personal experiences with one of the greatest souls of modern times. Take her up on the offer and don't be surprised if you, too, find your heart blessed and your soul inspired by the diminutive nun who left an enormous impression on Donna-Marie -- and on the whole world.

Paperback, 192 pages,Retails for $14.95

You can get your autographed copy at my website: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/

Emergency Water: Store it Now!

2011-08-25T20:45:00.000-04:00

Emergency Water: Store it Now!

Hurricane Irene is coming - let's pray!

2011-08-25T20:27:00.002-04:00

"Jesus Christ a King of Glory has come in Peace. God became man, and the Word was made flesh. Christ was born of a Virgin. Christ suffered. Christ was crucified. Christ died. Christ rose from the dead. Christ ascended into Heaven. Christ conquers. Christ reigns. Christ orders. Christ protect us from all storms and lightning. Christ went through their midst in Peace, and the Word was made flesh. Christ is with us with Mary. Flee you enemy spirits. The Lion of Judah, the Root David, has won."

My EWTN Bookmark episode coming up!

2011-08-25T14:24:00.005-04:00

The EWTN Wings newsleter this week states:

"Mention Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle to EWTN viewers, and they'll think of her many books, and television spots, on the importance of mothering. Donna-Marie's interview with Host Doug Keck reveals how much she learned from Mother Teresa's insightful observations to her, over a 10-year period. The fruit of this wisdom provided the basis for Mother Teresa and Me, and also for A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers."

My Bookmark episode with Doug Keck will air this Sunday, next Monday and Wednesday at the following times:

SUN., 08/28/11 at 9:30 AM and 11:30 PM Eastern time

MON., 08/29/11 at 5:00 AM Eastern time

WED., 08/31/11 at 5:30 PM Eastern time

We discuss my book: Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship to be released very soon (pre-orders being taken on my website: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/ ) and A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers (already released and also available on my website: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/ )

Also, available from the EWTN Religious Catalogue and from the publisher Our Sunday Visitor, as well as at Amazon and from your local book store.

Again, the show will air:

SUN., 08/28/11 9:30 AM and 11:30 PM Eastern Time

MON., 08/29/11, 5:00 AM Eastern Time

WED., 08/31/11, 5:30 PM Eastern Time

I hope you can tune in to our interview!

Happy feast of St. Rose of Lima!

2011-08-23T09:30:00.000-04:00

Happy feast of Saint Rose of Lima!

One of my favorite quotes of hers is, "Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven."

How do you feel about Saint Rose's sentiments? Can you an example about how this may apply to your life as a busy, prayerful, and faithful parent?

Please tell us in the comment box--even a simple sentence. I'm all ears!

And in case you'd like to know more about her, here is some information about St. Rose from the Catholic Encyclopedia:

Virgin, patroness of America, born at Lima, Peru 20 April, 1586; died there 30 August, 1617.

At her confirmation in 1597, she took the name of Rose, because, when an infant, her face had been seen transformed by a mystical rose. As a child she was remarkable for a great reverence, and pronounced love, for all things relating to God. This so took possession of her that thenceforth her life was given up to prayer and mortification. She had an intense devotion to the Infant Jesus and His Blessed Mother, before whose altar she spent hours. She was scrupulously obedient and of untiring industry, making rapid progress by earnest attention to her parents' instruction, to her studies, and to her domestic work, especially with her needle.

After reading of St. Catherine she determined to take that saint as her model. She began by fasting three times a week, adding secret severe penances, and when her vanity was assailed, cutting off her beautiful hair, wearing coarse clothing, and roughening her hands with toil. All this time she had to struggle against the objections of her friends, the ridicule of her family, and the censure of her parents. Many hours were spent before the Blessed Sacrament, which she received daily.

Finally she determined to take a vow of virginity, and inspired by supernatural love, adopted extraordinary means to fulfill it. At the outset she had to combat the opposition of her parents, who wished her to marry. For ten years the struggle continued before she won, by patience and prayer, their consent to continue her mission.

At the same time great temptations assailed her purity, faith, and constance, causing her excruciating agony of mind and desolation of spirit, urging her to more frequent mortifications; but daily, also, Our Lord manifested Himself, fortifying her with the knowledge of His presence and consoling her mind with evidence of His Divine love. Fasting daily was soon followed by perpetual abstinence from meat, and that, in turn, by use of only the coarsest food and just sufficient to support life.

Her days were filled with acts of charity and industry, her exquisite lace and embroidery helping to support her home, while her nights were devoted to prayer and penance. When her work permitted, she retired to a little grotto which she had built, with her brother's aid, in their small garden, and there passed her nights in solitude and prayer. Overcoming the opposition of her parents, and with the consent of her confessor, she was allowed later to become practically a recluse in this cell, save for her visits to the Blessed Sacrament.

In her twentieth year she received the habit of St. Dominic. Thereafter she redoubled the severity and variety of her penances to a heroic degree, wearing constantly a metal spiked crown, concealed by roses, and an iron chain about her waist. Days passed without food, save a draught of gall mixed with bitter herbs. When she could no longer stand, she sought repose on a bed constructed by herself, of broken glass, stone, potsherds, and thorns. She admitted that the thought of lying down on it made her tremble with dread. Fourteen years this martyrdom of her body continued without relaxation, but not without consolation. Our Lord revealed Himself to her frequently, flooding her soul with such inexpressible peace and joy as to leave her in ecstasy for hours. At these times she offered to Him all her mortifications and penances in expiation for offences against His Divine Majesty, for the idolatry of her country, for the conversion of sinners, and for the souls in Purgatory.

Many miracles followed her death. She was beatified by Clement IX, in 1667, and canonized in 1671 by Clement X, the first American to be so honoured. Her feast is celebrated 30 August. She is represented wearing a crown of roses.

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13192c.htm

Roles of Men and Women

2011-08-18T09:30:00.000-04:00

Roles of Men and Women
This article (click above) was on Catholic Exchange today. What are your thoughts?

Suggestion for correcting misbehavior

2011-08-17T19:31:00.000-04:00

"Fight all error, but do it with good humor, patience, kindness, and love. Harshness will damage your own soul and spoil the best cause." St John of Kanty

Copy the above down and hang it from your neck, put it on your mirror, or frig, or maybe post on your children's "Time Out" wall. :)

Homegrown Faith

2011-08-16T20:59:00.009-04:00

I recently interviewed photo-journalist and author, Heidi Bratton about her upcoming book, Homegrown Faith. Her new book is really quite a gem.

Here's my back cover endorsement:

"Heidi Bratton shows us how to grow spiritually throughout the Church year right in the ordinariness of our family days together with the extraordinary moments we experience as Catholic parents. This down-to-earth witty author gives unambiguous instructions for planting seeds of faith which will bloom in our children’s hearts forever."

Here's our interview:

DONNA-MARIE: Heidi, can you please tell us what prodded you to write this book?

HEIDI: My readers were the real and persistent prod in getting this book into print! Because my background is in photo-journalism, when I felt called to a publishing ministry sixteen years ago, I began with the writing and photo-illustrating of faith-based children’s books, and worked my way into trade books like Homegrown Faith; Nurturing Your Catholic Family. The speaking I was doing back then was for interdenominational mothering groups like Hearts at Home and MOPS, International, and resulted in the publication of eleven Christian children’s books and a successful trade book called Making Peace with Motherhood and Creating a Better You (Paulist Press). Then, just six years ago, I felt the call to become more overtly Catholic in my ministry and so began to write a weekly, Catholic family life column for The Anchor newspaper of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts, which is where we were living at the time. I called the column Homegrown Faith and during the first year of its publication, I received many requests for reprints from readers who wanted to share the spiritual nuggets in those columns with family and friends across the country. In hopes of meeting that demand, I expanded publication of the column and other articles to online websites like Catholic Exchange.com and Catholic Mom.com.

This actually enlarged my readership and the requests for reprints even more, so that at the end of that first year, I really felt the Holy Spirit tugging at my sleeve, encouraging me to package Homegrown Faith in book form. So, I put a manuscript together and floated it by some highly regarded Catholics like my newspaper editor, Fr. Roger Landry, my local bishop, Bishop George Coleman, my local archbishop, Cardinal Sean O’Malley, as well as other notable Catholic authors like Kimberly Hahn, Danielle Bean, and Heidi Hess Saxton. After receiving two thumbs up and really precious endorsements from all these reviewers, I set myself to polishing the manuscript and getting a publisher. Since then I have also been very blessed by other endorsements such as yours, Donna-Marie, and that of Lisa Hendey of Catholic Mom.com, and Debbie Herbeck of Renewal Ministries.

Although I still write my newspaper column and publish online even more, a printed book is a very versatile and highly accessible tool for my specific audience; busy Catholic moms in active mothering duty. A book can be peacefully read while nursing an infant, tucked in a purse for inspiration while waiting in the doctor’s office, kept on a nightstand for personal, daily prayer time, or shared with friends in a mom’s group.

Also, by organizing my columns into the 52 chapters of a book, one for each week of the year, I was able to add reflection questions to each chapter, a benefit which is, of course, not possible in a newspaper nor in an online article. I am really excited about the potential for these reflection questions to help my readers personalizing the spiritual seed of each column, to grow that seed in their own hearts and in the hearts of their family members, as well as to be able to more easily share this growth with distance family and friends

DONNA-MARIE: I have a feeling that the title of your column and now your book has a deep meaning for you. Can you tell us a bit more about what "Homegrown Faith" means to you?

HEIDI: When I hear the term, “homegrown,” I think of produce from some of the places around the USA in which I have been blessed to live; of springtime farm stands in California overflowing with baskets of red ripe strawberries, of mid-summer farmers’ markets in Michigan lined with bins of plump blueberries, and of autumn-time U-Pick orchards in New England chock-full of bushels of apples and pumpkins. The very concept of something being “homegrown” makes me think of that thing as being precious, close to someone’s heart, and I feel drawn to it. To be “homegrown” is the opposite of being mass produced. It means that fruit or vegetable was chosen carefully and tended to with great love from the very beginning.

I borrow the term and its appealing meaning for the title of my column and of my new book because I believe choosing carefully what spiritual seeds to plant in our families and then tending lovingly to the growth of those seeds is a great analogy for how to have a family life that is plentiful to the point of overflowing with spiritual fruit. Also, the parallels between growing abundant produce and growing a faith-filled family are abundant and intuitive, such as the need for constant watering, constant pulling of weeds, having seasons of drought, and things like that.

DONNA-MARIE How long did to take to write your book?

HEIDI: It took five years from first inspiration to the printed version now available from Servant Books. During those same five years, however, I continued to home school anywhere between two and four of our children, had a sixth baby at age 41, sent the two oldest children off to college, wrote and illustrated four more children’s board books, and then, in just the last six months moved the family from Massachusetts to Michigan with my husband’s work. So, you I wasn’t writing fulltime by any means, but through all that time and the ever expanding parenting duties, I was gathering quite a bit of material to share with my readers!

DONNA-MARIE: What was the most challenging part of your writing process?

HEIDI: The biggest challenge for me in writing is finding the time, something to which I know all moms in active duty can relate! It can be a really frustrating limitation, but I try to see it as an asset to my work, making what I write all the more real and relevant to my readers. Readers won’t find me waxing nostalgia because, as I mentioned earlier, as I have been writing Homegrown Faith; Nurturing Your Catholic Family, I have also been involved in some pretty all-consuming family activities like home schooling, sending children to college, having a sixth child, and moving cross country.

Someday I might have the time to write out all the spiritual insights the Lord has given me while attempting all of these overlapping activities, really, how enormously fun it would be to live the life of a “real” writer, as I have always imagined such a life to be… spending long hours on the shore of outer Cape Cod pondering ideas and word meanings over a steaming cups of café latte…

For now, however, and with the help of an extraordinarily committed and gifted editor, Claudia Volkman of Servant Books, I have gathered 52 of these spiritual insights from the napkins, the sides of road maps, the white space on church bulletins, and whatever other scrap of paper or diaper boxes I could find to scribble them on and committed them to print for the benefit of more families than just my own.

Another upside of my being time-challenged is that what I have to say is not all lofty and ideal, but very earthy and practical. It should resonate with the challenges and blessings felt by every mom out there today. One of my endorsers, Mary Kochan Editor-in-Chief, of Catholic Lane.com has written that, “To grow through the Church year with Heidi Bratton is to see Truth revealed by the most ordinary things and events of day-to-day home life – a ringing alarm clock, a missed cup of coffee, a pot of boiling water… and it is especially to see how grace is revealed by the most extraordinary things – those eternal beings we sleep, play, eat, and argue with, that collection of souls that God has assembled into a family. Best of all, Homegrown Faith does not stay home; it moves out in mission – to foreign countries, to engage our separated brethren, to change the world. A year spent with Heidi will grow faith in your home – and beyond.”

DONNA-MARIE: Your description of what you thought the writing life would be like really made me smile. The REAL writing life, for a mother anyway, is what you have experienced! That's the best way--the most real way. Then you can weave in all of your rich experiences to make it a far more interesting book!

I agree--Claudia is wonderful!

I really like Mary Kochan's endorsement--very nice.

Heidi, what do you hope your book may be able to accomplish?

HEIDI: For years now I have had a photograph of a mother and child and a quote from the Blessed Teresa of Calcutta tacked on to a bulletin board in my kitchen. The quote reads, “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.” I know you can relate to the inspirational power of all of the Blessed Teresa’s words, Donna-Marie, because you knew her personally, but if I can bring to the mothers who read my book the incredible truth and profound meaning tucked into this one quote, I will be one happy, Catholic writer!

Motherhood can be viewed as a limitation, a season of constraint in a woman’s ability to impact the world outside her home, but the Blessed Teresa’s quote gives purpose and meaning to even the most mundane acts of caring for a home, a husband, and children, and I hope that my book will help readers believe and act on the Blessed Teresa’s words by better understanding the truly, far-reaching impact of faith-filled parenting.

DONNA-MARIE: I love that too - "Go home and love your family." It's just so perfect! As you know, I write about motherhood quite a bit, so I can surely relate to your sentiments (and Blessed Mother Teresa's) regarding the profound sublimity of the vocation of motherhood.

Is there anything else you'd like to tell us about your journey?

HEIDI: The second thing I’d like to accomplish with my publishing ministry is to help Catholics learn how to read and to receive insight and grace from the Bible as well as the Sacraments. This is because during the early years of my mothering I attended a weekly Bible Study and it completely changed my life, and therefore the life of our family. My own writing whether it is in a children’s book, in a short article, or in a book like Homegrown Faith is always inspired by and includes insights and quotes from particular Scripture verses.

Studying God’s Word is what helped me to personalize and internalize the love of Jesus, deepen my appreciation of the Catholic Church, and desire more than anything that my children would also know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. I believe God’s Word, the Bible, has the power to do the same for anyone, but to have such a love poured into the life of a parent of young children means that that love will be multiplied for generations to come, and that is more exciting to me than anything else in the world!

DONNA-MARIE: Do you have plans to do any speaking events or book signings?

HEIDI: Yes, I do! Because of our recent, cross country move I have not taken on any new speaking or signing events lately, but, thanks be to God, (seriously, thanks be to God), we unpacked our last moving box just last week, and I am looking forward to getting out there with this new book in the months ahead. Readers who have upcoming women’s retreats, the need for a one-time speaker, or a fundraising idea for either Homegrown Faith or any of my children’s books can contact me through my website at www.heidibratton.com, or directly through my e-mail at homegrownfaith@gmail.com.

DONNA-MARIE: Finally, Heidi, where can we find your book for purchase?

HEIDI: Homegrown Faith; Nurturing Your Catholic Family is available anywhere books are sold. You can purchase it online at Servant Books’ website, at Amazon.com, at Christian Book Distributors.com, and at all local Catholic bookstores.

Thank you, Donna, for the opportunity to celebrate the launching of Homegrown Faith with you and your audiences. I appreciate everything you do to support and encourage Catholic motherhood!

DONNA-MARIE: You are very welcome, Heidi. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing all about this marvelous journey. Thanks a lot for the interview. I pray that Homegrown Faith helps inspire Catholic families everywhere! May God bless you and your family in great abundance!

Re-posting my laundry soap post

2011-08-16T15:08:00.000-04:00

Someone had inquired, so I am re-posting my laundry soap post here: http://viewdomesticchurch.blogspot.com/2009/06/our-laundry-soap.html

My new Radio Show: A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie!"

2011-08-15T13:45:00.001-04:00

Here's the link I promised you so you can listen to the Introductory segment for my new radio show: "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie!" http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/audio/Donna-Marie-CMN.mp3 It was recorded at the recent Catholic Marketing Network conference held at Valley Forge, PA.

And here's the information I posted earlier detailing the new show: http://viewdomesticchurch.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-new-radio-show-for-catholic-families.html

Happy feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother!

2011-08-15T11:05:00.000-04:00

Have a beautiful day on the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother!

Hail Mary, full of grace.

Our Lord is with thee.

Blessed art thou among women,

and blessed is the fruit of thy womb,

Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God,

pray for us sinners,

now and at the hour of our death.

Amen.

Review: A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers

2011-08-11T12:03:00.000-04:00

Author and blogger Kate Wicker offers her kind words about my book: A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers...

As a busy and sometimes frazzled mom of littles, I may desire long blocks of time devoted to contemplative prayer, but life as it is right now is messy, noisy, and full of interruptions. Plus, I have the attention span of a housefly, which makes a contemplative prayer an even greater challenge, but I am working on that. (I was up prayer journaling at 5:30 a.m. this morning. Right now that seems like one of the best formats for prayer time for me because it doesn’t set me up for failure so much as just sitting and being still does.)

Most women – mothers or not – are multitasking mavens. We’re on the move. We’re busy. But we’re also hungry for God. A Catholic Woman’s Book of Prayers is one of Donna-Marie Cooper O’Boyle’s most recent releases, and the diverse collection of prayers for Catholic women offers just the kind of quick, spiritual bites we crave.

I admit I haven’t read the book cover-to-cover or at least not from start to finish (I think I’ve probably covered most of the text by now). Instead, I have tucked the petite book into my purse. It’s the perfect size (it’s smaller than my wallet!) to bring along with me during my daily activities as a wife and mother of little ones. I know it’s there so when I’m blessed with a free moment – maybe I’m stuck in a long line at the grocery store or perhaps my child is busy dribbling a soccer ball during practice – I pull it out and use its wisdom and prayers to help me connect with God.

I’ve also, of course, used the book when I’ve been searching for the right prayer for a particular challenge I might be facing or to cope with an emotion that’s taken a hold of me. Chapter 3, Challenges Women Face, is particularly helpful during these times. I’ve prayed the “Help Me to Find Balance, Lord” on more than one occasion!

The book not only includes traditional as well as original prayers but also brief reflections on sundry topics that speak to a woman’s heart. Inspiration from the saints and other spiritual greats are sprinkled throughout the pages as well.

This book is a wonderful resource for any woman trying to lead a faithful life and desiring a closer union with her Creator.

_____________

Thanks so much, Kate. God bless you and your beautiful family!

You can see Kate's review here at her website/blog: http://katewicker.com/2011/08/dont-leave-home-without-this.html

My recent radio segment with Al Kresta

2011-08-09T11:41:00.009-04:00

I LOVE this photo I took of these two amazing faith-filled gentleman (Nick Thomm and Al Kresta) at this year's CMN!

Looks like Pope Benedict is blessing them both and Mother Angelica radiates love!

I love Al Kresta - what a guy! He's on the airwaves every afternoon on Ave Maria Radio (aired through EWTN) on his show, "Kresta in the Afternoon" where he speaks with guests about "things that matter most." Kresta in the Afternoon is "talk radio where God matters."

Photo from last year's CMN

I've done interviews with Al for his show, many times from the comfort of my home office by telephone. But, other times it's a real treat when I get to be with him in person when we are both at the same event. I had the pleasure of seeing Al again at the Catholic Marketing Network conference held in Valley Forge, PA this past week where I was there to give talks, do a book signing, and meet with publishers and authors.

It was also great to see Al's producer, Nick Thomm again too!

Al and I spoke a bit about everything, but we also focused on my book "A Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers" too.

From Al's blog announcing his guests and topics for the day of August 3rd: 4:20 PM- The Catholic Woman's Book of Prayers

"With all the mixed messages that women receive from society today, it s easy to be distracted from and even unreceptive to the deep and abiding love that Christ has for them. Whether single or married, religious or consecrated, parenting children, or spiritually mentoring others, women need to know that the Lord understands the many challenges they face, their desire for inspiration, and, above all, their need to be affirmed as women. Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle offers a book of original and traditional prayers, inspiring writings, and uplifting words from the saints, women can be touched by God's divine love, thrive in affirmation from the Church, and understand and appreciate the true feminine genius that Christ offers."

Speaking about "things that matter most" with Al Kresta!

On the radio LIVE with Al Kresta, Aug. 3, 2011

Here's a link to hear our segment. It's about half way through this part of his show: http://avemariaradio.net/archiveListen.php?file=kpm_20110803_1

If you'd like to learn more about Al or his show, check it out here, he has quite a story: http://avemariaradio.net/christian-radio-host.php/Al-Kresta/

And more here: http://avemariaradio.net/christian-radio-host.php/Al-Kresta/

To order autographed copies of my book which speaks to ALL Catholic woman (single, married, mothers, and consecrated Religious), just go to my website: http://www.donnacooperoboyle.com/ and scroll down the Welcome page.

New video: The Joy of the Lord!

2011-08-08T16:55:00.007-04:00

Are you ready for a new video?

Taking pre-orders on Mother Teresa and Me: Ten Years of Friendship!

2011-08-08T13:42:00.003-04:00

Check out the beautiful new cover! This book is scheduled for an early September release by Our Sunday Visitor Publishing Company. It will contain 12 scans of the 22 letters dear Blessed Mother Teresa has sent me. I've also added a couple of little stories to the book which was previously published by Circle Press.

I am now taking pre-orders for a discounted price. Just go to my website: www.donnacooperoboyle.com and scroll down on the Welcome page for ordering information. You'll also find more information about the book on the "Mother Teresa and Me" page.

My new radio show for Catholic families!

2011-08-08T13:29:00.003-04:00

I'm happy to tell you that I'll be doing a new radio show on a regular basis. I'm calling my show "A Cup of Tea with Donna-Marie." I'll be discussing all kinds of Catholic family issues with Cheryl and Jim Manfredonia of Domestic Church Media Foundation. It will be at 4:15 PM Eastern time on the first Friday of every month.

As soon as I get the MP3 of the interview with Cheryl and Jim, I'll post it here at "View From the Domestic Church" so you can hear our introductory segment which was done at the Catholic Networking Network conference held this past week at the Valley Forge Convention Center in King of Prussia, PA (just outside of Philly).

Here's some information to help you tune in...

Listeners can tune in through the website www.DomesticChurchMedia.org and click on LISTEN NOW for STREAMING LIVE.

Listeners can also tune in to 1260 AM is for the Trenton/Princeton/Bucks County area

And 89.3 FM is for Freehold/Colts Neck/ Spring Lake area

Blackberry and i-phones have a free APP; simply search for WFJS

On any other hand held type phone, one can go to

www.tunein.com and search for WFJS and listen that way...also free.

I HOPE YOU CAN JOIN ME! My next segment for "A Cup of Tea With Donna-Marie" will be on Friday, September 2nd.

God's perfect timing...

2011-08-06T22:02:00.003-04:00

I just got in last night from a full week at the Catholic Marketing Network and Catholic Writer's Guild conference held at the Valley Forge Convention Center in King of Prussia, Pa.

I got a pretty good night's sleep but had to get up early since my daughter was leaving on a little trip this morning. After we bid "good bye," I unpacked my bag and put a load of laundry in the washer. I washed some dishes that my dear hubby left in the sink and straightened the house up a bit.

It was then about 11:40 AM and the Post Office closes at noon. I wanted to get an important package in the mail and off to my eldest daughter which meant I would need to leave right away. I got our dog in the house and grabbed the package I needed to send, locked the door and high-tailed it to the car. I wondered if it was worth it to drive all the way into town only to find the Post Office door locked. I decided I'd take the chance anyway and felt a very strong prodding to leave everything and go.

I pulled into the parking lot of the Post Office and sprinted to the door. I got in the door just before the woman locked it. I waited in line and mailed off the package. I wanted to get right home to catch up on even a little of the work that was waiting for me since I was away all week.

But, instead of taking a right towards home, I make a quick decision to turn left so I could stop at a little shop to get something for my husband. When I went into the store, the woman there seemed a bit distressed. She was telling the customer in front of me that she felt she was experiencing an out-of-body experience because of what she was undergoing. She seemed thoroughly exhausted.

I asked if she needed a good night's sleep.

"No," she paused, "I need more than that."

"Are you taking vitamins?"

"Yes."

"Strong ones?" I asked.

"I need more than that," she said.

I knew in my heart that it was prayer she needed.

The customer in front of me left. I approached the counter with my two items. As she rang me up, she told me that her husband needs open heart surgery and that he has to have a valve transplant and it was scheduled for a week from now. He was hanging on a thread she said that he could not survive in that condition for very long. But he had to have dental surgery before undergoing the heart surgery.

As she was explaining her husband's situation, I was reaching into my purse to see if my some miracle I had a blessed Miraculous medal left. I had brought some with me to the conference and had given them out to people I knew there and to people I felt God wanted me to give them to.

I was delighted to find that I had JUST ONE left! I pulled it out and explained to the woman that I wanted to give her something and that she didn't need to accept it, but I wanted to give it to her for her husband. I pulled out the medal and touched it to the one I wear which was given to me by Blessed Mother Teresa (a relic). I then told her that when I was in Rome I had placed the blessed medal on Blessed Pope John Paul II's tomb and also on Blessed Mother Teresa's bed where she slept when stayed at the convent in Rome. I had been given permission to do both.

I placed it into her hand and I said that it was meant for her husband. She burst into tears and came around the counter and gave me the biggest hug. She squeezed me so tight and thanked me profusely.

The door opened and a couple of customers came in. I waited around and decided to TEXT my daughter and ask her for prayers for this woman and her husband. After the customers left the woman and I talked a little more. I told her that earlier I wasn't even sure if I was going to make it to the Post Office before it closed so I had even thought I might not go until Monday. Then, after the Post Office, I made a quick decision to stop at her shop instead of going straight home. It was clearly meant to be I thought. She seemed to think so too. I told her that I would put her husband on prayer lists and ask people to pray for him.

I asked her if she minded if I ask if she had a religion. She said she was Catholic but hadn't been to Church in a long time. She said her husband didn't really have a religion or at least none he practiced. I told the woman that I would bring her a medal the next time I came in.

Please keep this couple in your prayers. The husband's surgery is scheduled for a week from Monday. I believe that Our Lord is working on this couple and the Blessed Mother is interceding. I hope and pray that he decides to wear the blessed Miraculous medal.

So, let's see, what's the date the Monday after this? It's August 15th, the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary!

A few highlights of the past week at CMN

2011-08-06T20:51:00.003-04:00