The Look of Love

While the look between my wife and her children is without a doubt the most beautiful look of love....this picture is a close second. After the profession of 5 women as Missionaries of Charity some on=f the older MC Sisters were passing around and holding our newest addition who was about 1 month old. This picture was sent to me right before Christmas by the mother of one of the Sisters making her profession and it truely was one of the best gifts received this year. I'd rather see a sermon than hear one and this picture says it all.

One of my favorite Drives...Plainfield to the Bronx with Sister Nirmala MC

I received a call on Saturday, November 17th, to drive Sr. Nirmala MC, the successor to Mother Teresa, from Plainfield to the Bronx. I felt it was an opportunity of a lifetime and a highlight of my ministry experiences...to be a chaufeur for this Missionary of Charity. My wife and 2 small children drove over to Plainfield, we took 2 cars so they could go home after meeting Sr. Nirmala, and were invited to join in the evening prayers with the sisters. Many who have seen Sr. Nirmala know that she is no more than 4' 10" at most and quiet unassuming. After prayers ended we stayed in the chapel to be with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament while the sisters in formation had the chance to say their goodbyes to the head of the MC's and to receive a little present from her. Not only was I driving Sr. Nirmala to their house in the Bronx but I also was driving Sr. Assumpta MC -Head of the Contemplative Branch, Sr. Mary Ann-in charge of the Contemplative house in the Bronx and also Sr. Jeylenya-Head of the Contemplative house in San Diego. I've had the chance to know these sisters through my teaching at their house of formation in Plainfield and it was PURE JOY to be able to be with them. As we started out drive Sister Nirmala suggessted that we pray the Rosary so off we went. Then the sisters were asking about myself and family and teaching and they asked me to tell a Biblical Story from my first book. YIKES, talk about being put on the spot and of all people to be telling a Scripture story too. Well, Sr. Mary Ann suggested the 4 friends of the paralytic so I'm pretty obediant and told it like I was there. I then asked Sr. Nirmala about her first meeting with Mother Teresa and it was beautiful-there we were on the NJ Turnpike about to enter the GW Bridge and she is recalling her first meeting with Mother Teresa. Well, we arrived safe and it was nice reconnecting with some of the sisters who I knew from Plainfield and after a brief stop at the chapel I was on my way.

Old timey Diners-a slice of Heaven...with Coffee

One of my favorite things to do is to visit old diners. A bit odd I confess, but there is just

something about walking up to the stainless steel facade and sitting at the counter and ordering a ham and cheese omelet and looking down the counter. I'm not sure what it is but I enjoy it. New Jersey has well over 500 diners to choose from. http://www.njdiners.com/cgi-bin/listing.cgi?ALL This morning I drove up to Warren county to visit the CROSSROADS Diner in Bridgeview, NJ while my wife and children are in Texas. I was not disappointed. Imagine the joy as I saw that the Fountain Cola was RC Cola-ahh-the simple pleasures. About half way through my omelet an old guy took out his harmonica and played, 'On Top of Ol Smokey', much to my delight. Then is was on to the Royal Diner in Washington Township for a look around and a coffee to go. So, it was a good morning overall and the occasional 'Old Timey' Diner trip helps me move forward.

Family Conference-Theology of the Body

I've been invited to a number of parishes lately to communicate the 'Theology of the Body' message to both parents and their teens. Whether it's in Bridegwater, Flemington or most recently at Immaculate Conception Parish in Annandale, NJ, I find it VERY refreshing to see these parishes taking the initiative and offering something for both parents and teens as they sit together. Offering these conferences communicates that the Theology of the Body information is important and that parents and their teens both hear the same message. It allows opportunities for dialogue and for them to receive the same teaching. If not from the parents in a faith filled environment, their Church, what message about human sexuality gets communicated to young people today? I strongly recommend Dave Hajduk's book, Gods' Plan for You, which I feature below if you scroll down. The Sisters of Jesus Our Hope have really laid a great foundation and I'd be more than happy to pass on their contact information.

Allan being interviewed on Fr. Lou Scurti's show-"The Word: Alive and Well"

Thanks to Fr. Lou Scurti from the Diocese of Paterson NJ for inviting me on 2 shows of; "The WORD: Alive and Well" Fr. Scurti has a nice demanor and the whole experience was very professional. Thanks also to Rusty Myers who works at FOX yet comes in to coordinate the video and sond production on these half hour productions. Check out their site here -http://www.princeofpeacechapel.com/service.html -

My in studio interview with "The Catholic Guy" on SIRIUS Radio

On Wednesday, September 5th, I was invited on "The Catholic Guy" SIRIUS radio program. It was pretty cool going into NYC up to the SIRIUS studios in Rockefeller Center. It was because of my good friend Fr. Chern's recommendation and Amber Dolle's behind the scene work that I was able to go in. However, because of a contest, I had to do push ups for air time!! No problem however as I SMOTE the competetion with 43 push ups in 60 seconds. If you get a chance, listen to Lino's show on channel 159 and check out his website below. http://www.linorulli.com/

4 Books about the home-review for Catholic News Service

Here is a link to the review I did for the Catholic News Service concerning the 4 books pictured here. Of course they pale in comparisson to Jesus in the House but hey, others can try to write about the home as well! Just kidding! If I had to choose just one I'd choose the first one listed, Make Room For God. For my complete review just click the link below.

http://www.catholic.org/ae/books/review.php?id=24851

MC Sisters (Contemplative) Contact Info

A few people have left comments asking on how to contact the MC sisters in Plainfield, NJ. If you e-mail me at allan@allanwright.org I'll send you the address, phone number and answer any questions if I can. Peace, Allan

My Favorite site for organization and trying to GET THINGS DONE

The Daily Saint
A Productivity Blog Focusing on Work-Life Balance
http://thedailysaint.typepad.com/
Mike St. Pierre has created an oasis on the web for busy families, busy professionals and for people who want to get things done yet somehow the time slips away. What I enjoy about Mike's site is that the principles and advice he gives come from a number of sources and they are practical. I feel as though I can pick and choose the articles and advice that pertains to me and my schedule.
I don' want to confuse activity with accomplishment and The Daily Saint helps me put my time and effort where I will see the fruit of my labor.
In ministry settings I have found that people don't get back to you, don't respond promptly and often act in a less than professional way. Now I understand that some who work in ministry are volunteer, so all the more reason I would think we want to do our best and give our best if it's for God. Anyway, I strongly recommend stopping by The Daily Saint-I'm sure there's something for you that will be beneficial!

Excellent Theology of the Body book and presenter

As a teacher for over twenty years one of the most challenging topics is the Church's teaching on sexuality. David Hajduk's book, God's Plan for You-Pauline Books and Media-does the BEST job I've scene in presenting the Theology of the Body in a clear, concise manner. I had purchased 30 copies for my classroom and the High School Students I teach really do respond to the approach and logic of his presentation of John Paul II teaching on Theology of the Body. As a teacher the last thing I need is more work. David Hajduk includes excerpts from the Catechism, direct quotes from JP 2 and insightful reflection questions that guide the student along to making good decisions. Highly recommended!! Visit him at http://www.davidhajduk.com/