That steps not slide. That holy faith be kept.

The sky is beautiful this evening. 

It is clear. The sea is calm.

Ice is biting into the ground.

Welcome stillness indeed

but where steps might simply slide.

O blessed solitude where we meditate at meals

on the lives and sayings of the Saints.

Today there was an interesting statement from St Alphonsus.

We are well  through Volume II of his Life.

On 14 May 1772 he wrote to Father Blasucci:

"Naples is abandoning the faith,

people no longer go to confession,

preaching is despised,

seculars expound theology,

and everyone interprets Holy Scriptures,

the dogmas and commandments

just as he pleases!"

O Holy Father watch over us in 2016!

Pray for us that even if entire cities of souls

abandon the faith in our times,

pray that we persevere 

in keeping the same faith that you professed

and in which you died. 

A New Deck for Liguori House

Some time ago one of the faithful donated

the top decking wood for Liguori house.

Before Christmas action was taken begin installing the deck

with the help of friends and faithful.

Br Xavier prepares the ground work by cutting a straight edge to the concrete.

A young man of our parish Jose breaks the pieces away.

Connecting a hose pipe stopped the dust clouds.

John Shortall organised the buying of the frame wood

and is here cutting the lengths needed.

Tim White assists in assembling the framework.

Without the help of Jason the job would not have been completed so efficiently.

A nail gun makes quick work of the assembly.

Daniel and his son Isaac here assist at dismantling the old ramp.

The use of "tuffblocks" made the footings much easier than digging holes.

These are placed level on the ground and support the framework.

A lazer level to keep everything perfectly horizontal.

Young men of the parish giving a helping hand.

Nothing like hot pizza to keep body and soul together.

The moment of truth putting the frame upon the "tuffblocks".

Gently does it!

A few minor adjustments . . .

. . . and the frame is sound and solid.

The decking wood can now be attached . . .

. . . and many hands make light work.

The first section looking splendid.

With Christmas and Epiphany over works continue.

The Conlan family have come in force to continue the job.

Team effort makes the work much easier.

The deck in the front of Liguori House finished and stained.