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Published by www.EPlusPromotes.com www.TheCatoctinBanner.com The Catoctin Banner Newspaper February 2018 Page 13
“Par t of the Pilgrimage”
Mike Hargadon
Courtesy Photos
manner, as he often would break
forth in short prayerful interjections,
seemingly erupting from deep within.
Father Jack is also known for
his many pilgrimages, in which he
led groups internationally to India,
Africa, Peru, Ireland, Italy, Spain,
Emmitsburg can be a beautiful, and France. Now, his pilgrimage has
peaceful little town, but like presented him as an accomplished
anywhere in the USA, it can also be author, attempting to lead his readers
that godless, stress-filled rat race. into an essential part of each of our
Life can become a never-ending beings. His approach to pilgrimage,
carousel that seems to take a hold whether to a foreign country or
and capture our peace. Much of our life in general, is to deal with the
time can then often be spent trying successes and the adversities. He
to regain our peace. This effort can welcomes both as “Part of the
often be misdirected into an escape Pilgrimage.”
through drugs, alcohol, or unhealthy His book reclaims meditation as
relationships. There is a better way! an essential part of Christian life. breathing, “Why not use it explicitly
The solution is beautifully explained “Jesus along with the Holy spirit in our prayer.” In describing the
in a new book by the former gives instruction. When you pray, go title, Father Jack stated, “Breathing
Chaplain of the Grotto of Lourdes in into your inner room, close the door, thirty-three breaths in a rhythmic
Emmitsburg, Father Jack Lombardi and pray to your Father in secret.” and measured manner is a way to
(pictured right). Father Jack discusses techniques both imitate Jesus’ number of years
This little book on meditation to help develop our meditation, to of life on earth and also physically
titled, Thirty-three Breaths: A avoid possible failures, and to help and spiritually pray in a simple and
Little Book on Meditation, covers still ourselves for this journey. “We relatively short way.”
the topic of meditation from a need to ‘ignite the spark’ daily in our Thirty-three Breaths: A Little
spiritual, historical, and a “how to” own meditation and make this Godly Book on Meditation can be
perspective. Father Jack describes merger real, sensual and ongoing.” purchased at the Seton Shrine and
meditation as an “ongoing and Some things may be as simple as Grotto gift shops.
foreshadowing merger with God
and soul in oneness.” Those who
became familiar with Father Jack
during his eight years at the Grotto
will recognize his contemplative
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