THM Blog

Tag: Rosary

  • Ten Holly Places in the USA

    The 10 Most Sacred Sites in America

    The video tells about ten and the article tell about some of those and still some others, for America is Bless by God with Holly People striving to serve God to the very end,

    Places Where Heaven Seems a Little Closer *

    “How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty!”* **— Psalm 84:1**

    America is often known for its towering cities, breathtaking national parks, and historic landmarks. Yet scattered across our nation are places that remind us of something even greater—the presence of God. These sacred places are more than beautiful buildings or historical monuments.

    They are places where countless people have prayed, sought forgiveness, found hope, and experienced God’s peace. Millions of pilgrims have walked through their doors carrying heavy burdens and have left strengthened in faith.

    Whether you have visited many of these holy places or simply dream of doing so one day, they remind us that our journey on earth is ultimately a pilgrimage toward Heaven

    1. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Washington, D.C.

    The largest Catholic church in North America stands as a magnificent tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its breathtaking mosaics, soaring domes, and chapels representing cultures from around the world make it a place of prayer unlike any other in the United States. Every year, pilgrims gather here to celebrate Mass, seek Mary’s intercession, and renew their commitment to Christ.

    2. The National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion Champion, Wisconsin This peaceful shrine holds a unique place in American Catholic history.

    It is recognized as the site of the only approved Marian apparition in the United States. Visitors come seeking healing, comfort, and a deeper relationship with Jesus through His Blessed Mother.

    3. The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Hanceville, Alabama

    Founded through the remarkable faith of Mother Angelica, this beautiful shrine has become a destination for Eucharistic devotion and silent prayer. Many pilgrims speak of experiencing a profound sense of God’s presence while praying before the Blessed Sacrament.

    4. The National Shrine of Divine Mercy Stockbridge, Massachusetts

    Inspired by the revelations received by Saint Faustina, this peaceful sanctuary reminds visitors that no sin is greater than God’s mercy. Thousands gather here each Divine Mercy Sunday to celebrate the endless love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.

    5. The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Emmitsburg, Maryland.

    America’s first native-born saint dedicated her life to education, charity, and service to God. Walking through the grounds where Mother Seton lived helps visitors appreciate the quiet holiness that transformed countless lives.

    6. Mission San Xavier del Bac Arizona Often called the “White Dove of the Desert,

    ” This Spanish mission has served Native American communities for centuries. Its stunning architecture and rich spiritual heritage continue to inspire visitors from around the world.

    7. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes Notre Dame, Indiana.

    Modeled after the famous grotto in Lourdes, France, this peaceful sanctuary invites visitors to light candles, pray the Rosary, and place their intentions before Our Blessed Mother. Many students, alumni, and pilgrims have found comfort here during life’s greatest challenges.

    8. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral New York City Standing amid the busy streets of Manhattan.

    Saint Patrick’s Cathedral serves as a reminder that God’s presence can be found even in the middle of life’s busiest moments. Millions pause inside its doors each year to find silence, beauty, and prayer.

    9. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis Missouri.

    Known for possessing one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world, this cathedral reflects the beauty of God’s creation through sacred art. Every detail points the visitor toward worship and reverence.

    10. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower Royal Oak, Michigan.

    Dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, this beautiful church reminds us that holiness is found in ordinary acts of love faithfully offered to God. Her “Little Way” continues to inspire Christians throughout America.

    Sacred Places Point Us Toward a Sacred Life As inspiring as these holy places are, Scripture reminds us that God desires to dwell not only in magnificent churches but also within our hearts.

    Every church can become holy because Christ is present. Every home can become holy when families pray together.

    Every workplace can become holy when our labor is offered to God. Saint Benedict encouraged his monks to make their work a prayer. Saint Mother Teresa often described herself as “a little pencil in God’s hand.” Their lives remind us that holiness is not reserved for famous shrines—it is available wherever we allow God to work through us.

    The Greatest Pilgrimage Visiting sacred sites can strengthen our faith, but they are not the final destination. Our true pilgrimage is leading us toward Heaven.

    Jesus said: > “In my Father’s house are many dwelling places… I go to prepare a place for you.”* > **— John 14:2

    Every Mass we attend, every Rosary we pray, every act of kindness we perform, and every sacrifice we lovingly offer brings us one step closer to our eternal home. May these sacred places inspire us to seek not only beautiful churches but beautiful hearts—hearts filled with faith, hope, charity, and love for God. For in the end, the holiest place we can ever hope to reach is not found on a map. It is Heaven itself.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • Pray Unceasingly: Making Every Making Ever Moment a Pray

    “Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17

    Those three simple words from Saint Paul have challenged Christians for nearly two thousand years.

    How can anyone pray without ceasing?

    Surely God does not expect us to spend every waking moment kneeling in a church. Yet countless saints have shown us that continual prayer is not only possible—it is one of the greatest secrets of a joyful Christian life.

    During the 1957–1958 school year, I attended Saint John Seminary in San Antonio, Texas. One of my favorite memories had nothing to do with the classroom.

    The Sisters who prepared our meals wore beautiful light-blue habits with white head coverings. From time to time, as we passed the dining hall with its large glass wall, we could see them quietly going about their work while praying the Rosary.

    What a beautiful sight.

    They were not separating prayer from work.

    Their work had become prayer.

    That memory has remained with me throughout my life.

    Saint Benedict taught his monks the beautiful principle of Ora et Labora—”Pray and Work.” Every task, no matter how ordinary, can become an offering to God when it is done with love and for His glory.

    Throughout Scripture we read of prophets performing mighty miracles. Throughout the centuries the saints have done remarkable things that continue to inspire us today.

    Yet the greatest lesson they teach us is that they never claimed the glory for themselves.

    God was working through willing instruments.

    That realization has deeply influenced my own life.

    In my own small way, I try to keep God at the center of everything I do.

    In the morning I dedicate evrything to God. Afterwards I Thank Him. I tell Him you did a very good job.

    Before every meal, I thank Him.

    Every breath reminds me that life itself is His gift.

    Every step is another opportunity to walk with Him.

    Every conversation is another chance to reflect His love.

    Every blessing reminds me that I own nothing.

    Everything I enjoy today—my health, my home, my friends, the ability to write, my computer, and every opportunity to serve—is a gift entrusted to me by God.

    He has generously placed these blessings into my hands.

    And because they belong to Him, He can ask for them back whenever He chooses.

    That thought does not frighten me.

    Instead, it fills me with gratitude.

    Scripture also reminds us that we have another choice.

    When Judas left the Last Supper, St. John’s Gospel tells us that Satan entered into him. Judas became an instrument of darkness because he chose to reject the Lord who loved him.

    Each of us makes that choice every day.

    Will we become instruments of God’s grace…

    or instruments of selfishness, anger, pride, and division?

    The decision is made in thousands of little moments.

    Perhaps praying without ceasing is not so much about constantly saying prayers as it is about constantly living in God’s presence.

    Offering every task.

    Thanking Him for every blessing.

    Seeking His guidance before every decision.

    Serving others with joy.

    Living each moment as though Jesus were standing beside us—because He is.

    This is my humble attempt to pray without ceasing.

    I certainly have much room to grow.

    But every day is another opportunity to begin again.

    How do you keep God present throughout your day?

    Perhaps it is through the Rosary.

    Perhaps through quiet moments of gratitude.

    Perhaps by offering your work to God.

    Perhaps by simply whispering, “Jesus, I trust in You.”

    Whatever your way may be, may every heartbeat become another prayer…

    and may our entire lives become a loving offering to the One who first loved us.

    P.S. Before you go…

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  • The Highlights of the Week 6/21/26

    Sunday – I went to Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church in Irving, Texas. There was a Church Service here at WFV.

    Monday – There was a Doctor’s Appointment. Church Service at 1 PM and a National Park Tour, where we viewed the Park off the coast of California.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. Rick Steve’s Europe, where we toured Italy and Egypt and the Hillsdale College Class on the Constitution.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments. Bible Study where we are studying The Ten Commandments,. Bingo and a 6:30 PM Church Service.

    Thursday – Senior Source on Medical Fraud and Pool Time in the Living Room.

    Friday – A trip to the 635 Stores and a trip to the Irving Archives Museum where we view the History of Irving, which included the Cowboys and Texas Stadium, back when Tom Landry was Coach. Juneteenth Remembrance and Movie Night.

    Saturday – The Weekly Newsletters were placed on the doors of apartments. Rosary. A Wine and Cheese Social and Pool Time.

    All that and more, plus three meals. AS you can see another great week at West Fork Village in Irving, Texas. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    To learn more about WFV, for yourself or a loved one, call 972 721 1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • The Highlights of the Week 6/7/25

    Sunday – I viewed Mass on EWTN.com as Deacon Patrick was in Houston visiting his daughter and her family. There was a 9 AM Church Service here at WFV.

    Monday – Doctor’s Apointments all day. A 1 PM Church Service. A Line Dance Class. National Park Tour.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. Rick Steve’s Europe. where we were treated to virtual tour of the Alps. The Elm Fork River Band entertained us with country, blue grass, and gospel music for over an hour.

    There was a Book Club Meeting and The Sunshine Committee Meeting, where we learn about new residents moving in and current resident passing away or moving out. We also assembled Welcome Baskets.

    Tuesday ended with the Hillsdale College Class on the Constitution.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s appointments all day. Bible Study. Some or the residents went to El Fenix for lunch. The Classy Classical. Remember when…trivia A. Craft Class where they poured coasters. Bingo and a 6:30 PM Church Service.

    THursday – The Partridege Family History. Drum Class, where we warmed to the very moving music of YMCA. There was a Mini Mall in the Living Room from 1 to 3 PM. The Birthday Social with Ice Cream and cake follow by The Residents Council, where our Director up dated us on the happings… and scams to be aware of.

    Friday – The Latest Diabetic News. A Braums Outing. Food Demo for Key Lime Balls. Quite tasty. Can’t wait to get or find the recipe. The day ended with Movie Night.

    Saturday – We posted the Weekly News Letter with all the events scheduled for next week on the doors of the apartments and cottages. The Rosary in the Chapel and the Hope Group which had a Pajama Party with dancing and food.

    All in all, as you can see, another great week at West Fork Village in Irving, Texas. Truly a Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    To learn more about WFV and to join our happy family, for you or a loved one, call 972-721-1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • The Highlights of the Week 5/31/26

    Sunday – I attended Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church in Irving, Texas. There was also a Church Service here at WFV.

    Monday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. A virtual tours of the National Parks of Utah.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM in south Irving. Rick Steve’s Europe, where we toured Italy and Syria. There was Birthday Card Signing for those having a birthday in July. Bridge/Phase 10 2nd floor. Chair Dance Class. Tuesday Trivia. Name that tune, and at 6 PM we were treated to a Hillsdale College Course on The Constitution.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. UNO/Canasta game. Grief Check-in. Painting Class, Bingo, and a 6:30 PM Church Service.

    Thursday – The Carter Family History. Mother Maybell and her daughters were the First Family of Country Music. Jimmy Rogers was the Father of Country Music. June Carter married Johnny Cash.

    Mark Dunn entertained us for a good hour as he tickled the ivory and treated us to songs from our past.

    There was a very tasty Watermelon Social. A New Resident Orientation and Pool Time at the Pool Table in the living room.

    Friday – Started off with a Dollar Tree Outing. There were delicious fruity treat at our Fruity Social. A Monthly Planning Meeting for the July Calender. Name 10 Things and Movie Night.

    Saturday We gathered in the Chapel for the Rosary and The Chaplet Of Divine Mercy, which was give to Saint Faustina in early 1900rds by Jesus Christ, who appeared to the Polish Nun over many years. On the advise of her Confessor and Sprirtual Director, Saint Faustina wrote down these visits in her diary. A copy of which I have and have read. The entries cover 643 pages.

    I must give shout out to the beautiful Center Peices on our Dinning Room Table. Just when you think this is the greatest, another appears that is as beautiful or more so. They really brighten up the Dinning Room. Thanks to someone sharing their God given talents to brighten our day.

    While the above list of activities maybe overwhelmening to you, that’s not all. Remember WFV is an Independent Living Facility and we only choose the ones that interest us and you can do the same. We are able to do our own thing and pruesue our own interest.

    Which brings me to my new YouTube Channel on The World of Dogs. There you will find much about dogs in generals. To Check it out Click Here.

    As you can see we had another great week at West Fork Village. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    Ifyou wish to learn more about WFV, for you or a loved one, call 972-721-1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share it with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • The Highlights of the Week 5/24/26

    Sunday – I attended Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church in Irving, Texas. The Church Service at WFV was canceled.

    Monday – We Celebrated Memorial Day. There were no Docgtor’s Appointments. There was a box lunch for dinner so the staff could get off early. There was a 1 PM Church Service.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. The Flags that lined the property were taken down. Some of us voted at the Irving City Hall. There was Tuesday Trivia. The Sunshine Committee Meeting and Open Pool Time at the Pool Table.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. Bible Study. Some Residents went to Spring Creek for lunch. How is Your Health met. Crafts, Bingo, and a 6:30 PM Church Service.

    Thursday – Musical Bingo. Happy Hour an Open Pool Time.

    Friday – Bridge/Triominoes 2 Floor. Annex Meeting with Shayron. Movie Night.

    Saturday – Rosary in the Chapel and Pool Tournament.

    Thanks to our very dedicated staff we enjoyed all the above and three meals every day. It comes down to another great week at West Fork Village in Irving, Texas. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    If you or a loved one would like to join our happy, active family please call 972-721-1500. We would love getting to know you.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others,

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • The Highlights of the Week 5/17/26

    Sunday – I attended Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church I Irving. There was a Chirch Service here at WFV.

    Monday – Doctor’s appointments all day. A 1 PM Church Service. Texas Winds Preformance. National Park tour.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. Bible Study. Fast Food Outting. Crafts – Patrotic Wreathes. Bingo. Church ?Service.

    Ken Myers is a good vocalist, singer, and story teller. With every song you get a brief history on how the song came about and something about the artist and the song writer.

    Every Memorial Day Flags are displayed around boarders of the property next to the street. This year there are small and large flags. A great way celebrate Memorial Day

    Thursday – Joe V’s outing. Drum Class. Ken Myers Program.

    Friday – Flags Up. Dollar Tree Outing. Braums Outing. New Residents Orientation and Movie Night.

    Saturday – Rosary and Hope Group Meeting.

    Texas Winds came with a Brass ensomable. There was tuba, a buggle, a trombone and two instruments I did not recognize. They were great.

    The National Park Tour was a viral tour we watched on the TV.

    The Bible Study where we watch a video or a printout of something bibical and discuss it. The study ends with a prayer for all our loved ones and our needs. Please join us.Flags,

    The Rosary is recited most every Saturday at 11 AM in the Chapel, where I pray the Rosary and The Chaplet of Divined Mercy for my family and the residents and staff of WFV. You are very welcome to join me.

    As you can see we had another great week at West Fork Village. A Place where Seniors Thrive.

    If you want to learn more about WFV, for you or a loved one, cAll 972-721-1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@thmjmj8875

    To learn about the one-time investment that can save rural hospitals, small businesses, small towns an potentially increase your income Click Here.

  • The Highlights of the Week

    The Highlights of the Week

    Sunday – I attended Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church in Irving, Texas. There was a Church Service here at WFV.

    Monday – There were Doctor’s Appointments all day and a virtual National Parks Tour. There was a 1 PM Church Service.

    Tuesday – There were Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. Drum Class. Elm Fork River Band entertained us for 90 minute with a mix of country, bluegrass, and gospel music. There was a meeting of the Book Club and the Sunshine Committee.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. Bible Study. Classy Classical. The Craft people were making Patriotic Wreaths. Bingo and the day ended with an evening Church Service.

    Thursday – How Things are Made. Birthday Social. The Residences Council Meeting. We had box suppers as the Dance was from 5 to 7 PM.The theme was a Sock Hop, so we were treated to Go Go Boots, Poodle Skirts and hoop skirts. The music was basically from that era. There were snacks and beverages and popcorn.

    Friday – The Puzzle Table was open. There was a Popcorn/Popsicle Social, a viewing of Ken Burns’ Art of the Revolutionary War, and Movie Night.

    Saturday – End of the Week Quiz. The Rosary in the Chapel. Open Table Play and Open Pool Play. Many attended the funeral of one of our long-time resident.

    At Saint Luke Catholic Church, 240 youngsters made their First Communion.

    As you can well see, we had another great week at West Fork Village in Irving, Texas. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    To learn more about WFV, for you or a loved one, to join our happy, caring family, call 972-721-1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share it with others,

    Rick Herring

    thmjmj@gmail.com

  • The Highlights of the Week 5/10/26


    The Highlights of the Week 5/10/26

    Sunday – I was coming back from Lubbock, so I watched the Mass on EWTN.com.There was a Church Service here a t WFV.

    Monday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. I received my first of three Iron Infusions. There was an outing to Saltgrass for lunch.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. Birthday Card signing for those with June Birthdays. At lunch we were served Margaritas in honor of Cinco de May.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. Open Pool Time in the living room.

    Thursday – A lady came with her clothes, jewelry, ect. and displayed them in the living room. Mark Dunn entertained with his keyboard and singing for a good hour. We watched the History of Country Music.

    Friday – Breakfast at IHOP. Coke Floats. Monthly Newsletter Planning. Jewelry class. Movie Night.

    Saturday – The Rosary in the Chapel. There was a Fashion Show featuring some of our ladies showing off some great apparel and talent. One of our ladies won Miss Mature Beauty some years ago and she modeled her attire for that occasion, complete with her Shoulder to waist sash. Another showed off her ability to still twirl the baton.

    The day ended with the Hope Group Meeting which featured a dynamic speaker.

    As you can see, another great week at West Fork Village in Irving, Texas. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    The Hope Group Speaker asked what was the best thing that happened to you and all those that spoke said moving to West Fork Village.

    If you wish to check out WFV for you or a loved one, call 972 721 1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com

    P.S. To check out the Kindness Virus Click Here.

  • The Highlights of the Week 4/26/2026

    Sunday – I attended Mass at Saint Luke Catholic Church. There was a Church Service here at WFV.

    Monday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. A Menu Planning Meeting with our Director and the Manager of the kitchen. We view the Kris Kristofferson Story. There was a 1 PM Church service.

    Tuesday – Errands at 9 AM and 1 PM. Sunshine Committee Meeting.

    Wednesday – Doctor’s Appointments all day. Bible Study. Half Day Trip to learn and see more of Irving, Texas ending with lunch at Joe’s Coffee Shop. The Volunteers for the Friends of Irving Library pick out 250 books for the 2 to 5 year olds at the Irving Public School across the street. This was followed by Crafts and Bingo.

    Thursday – Texas Winds entertained for a musical hour. Drum Class. Wine and Cheese Social.

    Friday – Movie Night.

    Saturday – I was out of town so no Rosary in the Chapel.

    My family gathered in Lubbock, Texas for a memorial for my brother-in-law that recently passed away. The gathering lasted into the late hours of the day. We spent the night. Came back Sunday to Forney for a piano recital that my grand-niece was in. It was very good. There were also students doing vocals. Quite a Treat.

    So as you can see, we had another great week at West Fork Village. A Place Where Seniors Thrive.

    To learn more about WFV, for you or a loved one, call 972-721-1500.

    Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

    Rick Herring
    thmjmj@gmail.com