Country Encounters — Part Four: A Change of Heart

The nearby sound of a cock’s crow suddenly brought both men back to reality, as they realized with a start that it must be close to suppertime already. Samuel Cartwright rose from his chair. “You must pardon me for taking up so much of your time, Jacobs. I was so caught up in your interesting [...]

Sanctifying Grace

From the beginning, God destined man to share everlasting life with Him in Heaven. God lifted him up beyond this life to a higher level, the supernatural life, in order to assure him of this destiny. He had no obligation to do this; rather, it was due entirely to His own Will to show such [...]

Country Encounters — Part Three: Military Tactics

Jacobs stared into the distance, recalling the happy days of his youth. Samuel Cartwright was greatly moved, almost wishing that he too could know General Washington as intimately as this man. “Well, all is forgiven and forgotten, Jacobs, concerning our hot remarks. But I must admit you have kindled my interest in General Washington. Would [...]

The Sign of the Cross

As Catholics, we must profess our faith not only by word but by our actions. According to such St. James, faith without work is dead. Those who attend Mass, receive the Sacraments, and make outward signs of devotion, such as the Sign of the Cross, fulfill this obligation. When we make the Sign of the [...]

Country Encounters — Part Two: Patriot vs. Tory

Samuel Cartwright recovered quickly. “But you must realize, Jacobs, that your opinion is foolish and misguided, not to mention unpopular!” The blacksmith smiled wryly. “Actually there are many who believe as I do, Mr. Cartwright. This is a matter that I have long deliberated on, examining every angle, down to the slightest detail. And I [...]

The Nature of the Sacraments

It’s an important fact that one cannot obtain salvation without the help of grace. No good works can are possible unless we are aided by it. Therefore, one must wonder how he can possibly obtain God’s grace. There are two chief means of receiving grace” prayer, and the Sacraments. The difference between prayer and the [...]

Country Encounters — Part One: The Blacksmith’s Client

It was a beautiful spring day in the little rural town of Braintree. Birds were singing in the trees, a fresh breeze was blowing, and a general feeling of peace pervaded the countryside. Owen Jacobs worked steadily in the small shed that served as his smithy. Being a blacksmith, he was not one to let [...]