The Immaculate Conception

BEADS OF JOY 12-08-12
“Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends:

This is today’s gospel Luke 1:26-38 (Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary). Today is a most blessed day to celebrate. I just had to post the actual words of the gospel; they are too beautiful, let us take the time to read them again:

“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!" But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there will be no end." And Mary said to the angel, "How shall this be, since I have no husband?" And the angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, your kinswoman Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” And Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.”

Today's celebration is focused on the purity of our Blessed Mother. She is indeed full of grace because of her trust in God's word. How seriously do we believe in God's word, His promises, and what grace He will bestow upon us in our life? Do we seriously live a life so simple and so pure, that we would instantly say, "Yes" if we were asked to do something that God asked of us that might possibly look like a bad choice, from the angle we might see it; or do we fully and completely trust that God alone knows what's best for us? Would our trust outweigh our doubt and personal fears? It's something to think about. Full and complete trust goes without questioning of the authority making those choices for us. In this case like Mary, fully trusting in God’s Will for her.

Those are important questions that need to be considered. The challenge we should all take on in our lives; should be to live a life before our Lord that emulates His mother's, she is a great example of obedience. She didn’t know when she was speaking to the Angel Gabriel in that conversation what was truly to come of all of this; and what he was saying about the soon to be miracle birth were beyond any human understanding. Yet regardless of the lack of all the details, her love and devotion and deepest trust in God surpassed any doubt that would turn her away from God's request of anything He wanted for her to do, for Him. We must embrace Mary as our Mother and join with her as she leads us to our Lord. She always brings us to Him, right from the start she has, all the way to today. Thank you Mother.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

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Hope - In His Mercy

BEADS OF JOY 12-07-12 “Hope – In His Mercy”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today we look at yet another fantastic miracle of healing. Like the clay was molded and blessed through God’s hand in creation; Jesus touched the eyes of those blind and healed them. Today’s gospel healing can be found in Matthew 9:27-31 (The Healing of the Two Blind Men). These two men cried out to Jesus in HOPE of His mercy and His healing. Without hesitation Jesus entered into their home and spoke to them and healed them. Do you recognize God’s power and mercy, even before the healing? In our HOPE and trust in Him, let us keep our eyes open to His healing power. It is Jesus who restores us; both physically in the functions of our body, and spiritually in the focus of our Spirit.

As the blind-spots in our lives cover up our view of God’s healing power, we must call after Him and beg Him to open our eyes- our Spiritual eyes. Yes we may see Him, but without knowing Him- who He is and why He is here; we may be blinded by our lack of knowledge. In His compassion for us, it is obvious in many of our lives that our Lord blesses our lives in so many ways. Through our faith and with the help of the Holy Spirit we will see Him, more and more clearly as we get to know Him.

God wants us to draw ever so close to Him, to see Him. Living a life in the HOPE that we do that and that makes for an exciting life filled with Jesus. Consider the life these two blind men lived, in utter darkness; thinking about and waiting for Jesus. And when Jesus was near, even without seeing Him, they were seeking His Mercy and His Healing, and their HOPE in His loving power to Heal was very real for these two men. They knew that it was only through Jesus that they would be healed, and through their lives they must have been listening and waiting for Him; just knowing that through their faith, they’d know the right time to cry out for Him, even though they couldn’t visual see Him. That’s the kind of faith we should all be living every day. Does that make sense? We should live our faith filled life like these two blind men did.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Hope – In A Solid Foundation

BEADS OF JOY 12-06-12
“Hope – In A Solid Foundation”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends, (This is my 600th Blog)

How do you prepare for disasters? Take Hurricane Sandy, she tore through this area pretty horrifically, with no mercy for virtually anyone. Even if you had a solid cement foundation, it pretty much didn’t matter; if you were too close to storm, your home was destroyed. Just as if we live our lives to close to evil, taunting with sin that we embrace, we stand the chance at being destroyed, regardless of what we may think we have fooled ourselves of what we believe. Today’s gospel has us considering the Hope that we have in our preparedness in times of trouble and challenge. Can your spiritual house with-stand the pressures and misleading efforts of the worldly people around you? Today we are reading, Matthew 7:21, 24-27 (True Disciple / The Two Foundations) let us keep in mind that a storm so horrible, not only sweeps away all that the good, but also the wicked will be destroyed. God knows our hearts, even when we secretly lie to others and even more seriously to ourselves.

We might think we are fooling those around us, we may even also think; if we Hope no one knows, maybe no one will find out either. Throughout life we will all be put through some of life’s most brutal tests. Tests of our character, tests of our morals, tests seeing who we really are; especially when we are under the gun and all those around us have been fooled into believing one thing, and we as believers stand strong in our faith without budging believing and following after Jesus. I wonder do you live in the Hope that your foundation is built in solid, strong footing to with-stand most any storm that comes your way. The way we live our lives and the way we share our lives, will inevitable determine how we will stand up against the evils of this world. Our foundation is critical, do you have the foresight to see and know that how solidly you stand your ground in what you believe will be in the end, the truth about who you really are?

God must be our foundation, for it is only through Him that we shall have the only Hope that will with-stand any storm heading our way. Some storms we can move out of the way of, and we can remain protected from the disaster heading our way; only thing is that the spiritual storms that hit us every day for the most part, hit us without warning with no place to go for cover. When Chrissy was diagnosed with Terminal Lung Cancer, we were living a normal life, making plans, celebrating holidays, shopping for our family’s needs and maintaining a life style typical to most families our size and most families working as hard as we were. But surprise surprise; no mercy and only a demand for sacrifice hit us like a brick wall. And tested we were, beyond what anyone should ever be tested.

We still battle this horrible cruel heartless storm, it hasn’t gone away and it hasn’t slowed down any; the winds only seem to have picked up. I thank God that He alone is our rock; He alone is our refuge through all of this. We have surrendered all of our treasures and all of our plans and desires to battle this horrific storm. One thing this storm does not stand an inkling of a chance to destroy is our Hope. Our Hope remains in God’s will for Chrissy, and our family. He alone determines what we say, how we react and how we handle these most destructive challenges. He alone is what we have built our lives on, our faith in and our Hope for the future in. My sisters and brothers I say this from the heart; build your faith, your foundation solidly in Jesus Christ, don’t let anyone tell you or criticize you or tease you into believing anything else. God alone is the only foundation that can with-stand any storm you will be faced with. Place all your trust in Him. I love you guys, God Bless.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Hope - In Gods Abundance

BEADS OF JOY 12-05-12
“Hope – In God’s Abundance”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

The miracles keep coming, today we read about a miracle that blesses thousands, sharing in the Hope found in God’s abundance. I wonder, hmmm… Whenever you take a journey for a couple of days, a journey that you know will keep you away from your home or any place to get a drink or a snack, or a meal; would you pack a cooler or something? Well in today’s gospel we learn that 4,000 people didn’t plan for such a journey and Jesus was unwilling to just send them away hungry. He was concerned that in the journey home they might faint along the way. Jesus took what little they had and He multiplied it to satisfy and encourage thousands. Today’s miracle can be found in Matthew 15:29-37 (The Healing of Many / Feeding of The 4,000). After you read this scripture, I think of one question, ok two questions, to ask to further show how generous God’s abundance really is.

I wonder: What amount of food satisfies your hunger pangs after 3 days of traveling on foot? That question comes to me from reading verse 37 in today’s gospel, “And they all ate and were satisfied; and they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over.” This question even furthers these thoughts to the next question: How much food does it take to feed and satisfy 4,000 people and still have left overs? I don’t know how many of you have had crowds over your home for a BBQ or a holiday celebration. It sure takes a lot of food to satisfy 20-30 or more people, you always Hope you have enough food, I can’t even imagine what amount of food (bread and fish) it would take to feed and satisfy 4,000 people. WOW. I write the number 4,000 out in numbers, because I think seeing the huge number is more powerful an impact then just reading it in words.

Jesus’ love and compassion for the crowd (for us) is incredible, but very expected, at least by me and I would guess by all of us. The disciples themselves hadn’t a clue what to do, they couldn’t see beyond themselves and their own ability to help the crowd. Jesus knew that even with just a little, even a very little amongst so many, is more than enough for Him to bless everyone.

Jesus really loves all of us, and meeting our needs is just as important to Him as it is to us… this miracle shows us that.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Hope - To See & Know Jesus

BEADS OF JOY 12-04-12
“Hope – To See & Know Jesus”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Let me start with a quote from today’s gospel reading, “Then turning to the disciples he said privately, "Blessed are the eyes which see what you see! For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it." That was verses 23-24, today’s gospel can be found in Luke 10:21-24 (Blessed Are The Eyes That See). We should live in joyful HOPE that Jesus will come again to us and that He alone will establish His Kingdom for us. With confidence and HOPE and what Jesus has told us; this kingdom will be one of righteousness and peace. But before all this; we must see Him and know Him and love Him and embrace Him in a personal relationship.

Before we get into it, let us be clear that we know things that are in God’s interest or will for us, come from Him alone. One key to being able to do this is that we must live in simplicity and humility before Him, like babes in His sight. This journey in life can be as easy or as difficult as we see it to be. I know we don’t have control of the events that surround us; but we do have control as to how we respond and how we see them. In our life there is one very severe sin that we must do all we can to avoid and that sin is pride. It is a very dangerous sin, this sin leads us to only place all our hope and praise in ourselves. The foundation of all sin usually starts with this sin. If it’s all about us, then we know it’s not all about Him. Our lives must always be like one of a servant, serving and listening and seeing what the Lord desires of us. I know that isn’t the popular answer or preference from most; but it is the truth.

RIGHT NOW – RIGHT HERE, ok RIGHT THERE where you are, give to Jesus your life completely, entirely, holding nothing back. Place every spec of your being into His arms; give Him full reign of your life, putting all of your Hope and Trust in Him. Allow Him to guide you; allow Him to encourage you; ask Him to bless you. You will be asking for to be tested with asking for that, I promise you that. But knowing that you can be strong in what might come your way is important. For in Christ we are strong, no matter what comes our way.

My Story is the perfect example... Chrissy situation wasn’t something we knew would happen in our families’ lives, nothing we could plan for. But no matter; in Christ I have been made strong to nurture my love. God has given me the foresight to gain the insight in being of service to the woman He has blessed me to spend my life with. I don’t want any praise or anything, I am honored to be able to be the one to serve her, help her and guide her; as she suffers and as she recovers. I sometimes have no clue how I got through some days I experience. But in my heart I know its Gods saving grace that gives me the Hope and the fortitude and the strength to conquer what shouldn’t or couldn’t be conquered. Seeing and knowing Jesus is my ultimate strength. You too can do the same. Let today be the first day for the rest of your life with Jesus.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Hope - Found In Trust

BEADS OF JOY 12-03-12 “Hope- Found In Trust”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

The title of today’s blog is fitting for the week that lies ahead. This is a week of HOPE and in this week we learn that many of the gospel’s are about healing. In today’s gospel we are reflecting upon Matthew 8:5-11 (The Healing of a Centurions Servant). I love this healing, the Centurion was an upright, respectful, faithful man; he placed all his hope in the healing of his servant, in the trust that Jesus would do this for him, simply by say the word and he would be healed, and indeed he was. He showed such an amazing demonstration of public faith and that came from a commander; a commander of hundreds of soldiers.

Let us take a moment and consider in this reflection, just prior to the commander speaking with Jesus. The pain and suffering of his servant that must have been on his heart; he must have known who Jesus was; he did refer to Jesus as “Lord”. In fact being a commander and Jesus being in His public ministry, he probably knew where Jesus would be that day. This man most likely started his day in the HOPE that he would have the chance to speak directly with Jesus; to ask Him to heal his servant. Very impressive and encouraging, not only in his words of confidence requesting a healing, he just knew it would happen; all Jesus had to do was command it, and it would, and it did. We worship and love and adore a most powerful, loving, merciful Lord. These simple stories are a large part of the reason why my Spirit is always on fire for Him every single day.

I have read it like this from author Herbert Lockyer, in regards to the soldier, “It was great in its self-forgetting humbleness. There was no vestige of desire for honor to himself, for consideration of his standing, in the way the Centurion proffered his request. This is faith’s true mark- “None but Christ.”” Even in this situation, back in the beginning years of our Lord’s ministry, many understood that all glory and all honor goes to Jesus Christ. Amen!!!! I love this, our faith and what we believe and what we share and what we say, has a history unlike any other. I simply love it!!!

Please in your life, try to allow Jesus to engulf you; allow Him to take over your every thought; allow Him to take over all your wishes, all your dreams, all your time. I know I have shared this before, but I say it again to help encourage you, all of you, to somehow do what I do- in your own life. My life is 100% Jesus… Even when I am work and especially when I am at home. All things Jesus, all the time; I have no hobby that isn’t praiseworthy to my Lord. I don’t follow sports, but I do enjoy watching them; I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, and I have never done drugs. I gave my Lord, my entire life back in 1983, and it has been amazing ever since. Jesus and Mary are a huge big part of my life; every single day that I live. To me, there is no point to live for otherwise. Of cause I have a family that I love and that I tend to with joy immeasurable; these references are about my spiritual life, my spiritual well-being, all of which are entwined in everything I do. Join me; unite with me in living like this. It will forever change your life for the better. In all things you will learn how to REJOICE like I do. Surrender all your HOPE in Him.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

1st Sunday of Advent

BEADS OF JOY 12-02-12 “1^st Sunday of Advent”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today is the First Sunday of Advent: What are you waiting for? What are you hoping for? What does this entire Season of Advent mean to you? Let’s see what answers we might consider? We are waiting for the birth of Jesus in a manger… We are hoping that His birth brings us a grace that will save us… And to me this entire Season of Advent is all about Anticipation and Hope. It’s also a wonderful, spiritual journey; one that we can take alone and one that we can take with our community. In our Hope, let’s keep that Hope in God and not in the things of this world. How do you think of Hope? Do you realize this Season of Advent rests all its Hope in a newborn baby, a baby that will be born poor and in a manger?

Look for the light in the sky, and follow after it… just kidding, if you’re like me, you’d end up following an airplane into an airport; and then after that have to deal with a pat down. LOL. Sorry, but I will go back to that thought. Jesus is the light, oh yes He is: He was before He was born, He was at the Transfiguration, He was at His Resurrection and He is today in our lives. The time is here, the time has come… What are you waiting for?

Today’s Gospel is Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 (Second Coming – Watch At All Times). Temptations untamed will be our undoing, we tend to be passive and we even fall asleep spiritually as we live through this life. Starting today let us ask God to fill our lives and our thoughts with His Hope and His Grace and a fresh view on what’s to come through Him. Through God we are given strength, strength to overcome temptation. Our focus must be fixed on Jesus, He is to be born, He will be born; He will save us; He will always love us; He has always loved us. The things of this world only distract us and keep us from Jesus; I challenge you to remove one by one all of the things that are in your life, that keep you away from Jesus. In your Hope; Hope and focus on His ways to become your ways. Ask for His blessings and His love; He will give them to you, all must do is ask... God Bless you, enjoy Advent.

Today's Scripture:

1^st Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16
(Promise of Restoration)

Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14
“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.”

2^nd Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:12 - 4:2
(Living to Please God)

Gospel: Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
(Second Coming – Watch At All Times)

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Prepare For Advent

BEADS OF JOY 12-01-12 “Prepare For Advent”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Advent 1, Year C

Advent is without a doubt one of the most exciting times for Catholics to celebrate and to prepare for. Jesus is coming!!! We will have a frenzy of Joy, gift wrapping, baking and most importantly worship that we will all experience as this most Joyous season of Advent begins. What are your plans for Christmas this year? Will family and friends be in your home, singing Christmas carols, while the turkey is in the oven and the kids are unwrapping their presents? Or maybe you will be taking a journey to see Grandma and Grandpa, packing the car with all the wonderful gifts you made for them and we can’t forget to bring the pumpkin pie. Now is the time to begin planning these wonderful activities. This is also the time for all of us to prepare for Jesus’ arrival.  Yes we all know He is already here; it’s just so much fun and so important for us to make the time we need to prepare our hearts and minds each year for His arrival. Your Christmas will only be perfect is Jesus is in your celebration.

Advent, hmm… What is Advent? It’s a time for preparation; a time for prayer; a time for reflection; a time for conversion; it’s a time for us to fully bring Jesus into our lives, into our homes. Do you know what will really make this Advent season the best it could ever be for you and your family? Once Jesus is born and all the festivity has quieted down and all the after Christmas sales are done; truly invite Jesus to remain with you in your heart, in your home and in your lives. Take it from me; it’ll be Christmas all year long once you do. I can remember back in 1983 when I experienced my first Christmas, the first Christmas where Jesus was one thousand percent of my life. I can’t remember having such a joyous Christmas like that first one. Don’t get me wrong, we had fantastic, festive, endless gift giving Christmas’ through the years when I was kid and even now; but none can compare to the very first one that ignited my already on fire heart love for my Lord. And then when Christmas was over, Jesus stayed with me and has remained with me 365/24/7 and I love it… You can to…

Think of Advent like this:
Through these weeks I will be here sharing and guiding you.

Week 1 – HOPE:
Think of the empty manger, waiting for Jesus.

Week 2 – PREPARE:
The shepherds begin to travel towards the manger.

Week 3 – REPENT:
Mary and Joseph know the time is drawing near.

Week 4 – RESPOND:
The Magi are closer and nearer to Him now with gifts and praise.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Urgent Ministry Update

BEADS OF JOY 11-27-12 “Beads of Joy Ministry - Update”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Urgent? Indeed!, it’s all about our ministry...
Hello my friends, I am so glad you have taken the time to read today’s blog. Today I wish to share with you, the topical expansion of our ministry. I was initially considering making separate places (twitter and blog) to focus on health (mind and body), relationships (marriage and parenting) and a look at some of my own personal and some rather odd hobbies that cost me $0.00 to enjoy. I realize for the most part our online Ministry (Beads of Joy Rosary Ministry) strictly, most, even exclusively focuses on “Prayer”. And I know it has much popularity and it draws in many interested around the world. Nothing at about what already exists will ever change; in fact it will continue to only grow.

What I feel led to do through much prayer and the guidance of the Spirit; is to expand our ministry to cover not only our Spiritual well-being, but also our physical and mind and relationship well-being, the whole body, encompassing our whole life. I have experience in all facets of these endeavors. Wow!! Ok, breath….that was a long sentence. LOL. But in the nutshell that is exactly what our ministry will be doing. My love for our Spiritual direction and choices in life has been in my heart these past 29 years (since 1983) I really enjoy being an evangelist and promoter of the Rosary and Prayer. My love and experiences and desire to promote “Family” has also been my whole life, which is indeed wrapped up the Spiritual experience; after all being married 26 years (since 1986), and being a dad for 24 years (since 1988), my heart and spirit feel led to share more and more about these very aspects that are part of many of our lives.

So from today on, I will be intergrading within my blogs and tweets; reflections, insights and experiences to all these topics to hopefully help encourage and lead many to a more total healthier you. I am not perfect, by no means; and I certainly don’t live day by day sinless. I am just like all of you, dealing with all the normal and even abnormal challenges of married life and relationships, parenting of multiple children, physical challenges of over-eating and inability to focus on taking care of myself. I hope these topical inclusions; to our ministry helps everyone even more. I ask that you to feel free to share your story, share your challenges with us, if you feel led to; so that maybe we as a community to help guide you, lead you and encourage you to better overall health.

Thank you everyone for your dedication and devotion to our Lord through the Rosary and your own personal prayer life. May it continue to grow and flourish as time goes on... All of you are always in my prayers. I hope and pray that you have a most spectacular, exciting day.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

A Husband's Joyful Rosary

BEADS OF JOY 11-25-12
“A Husband's Joyful Rosary”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS


My Friends,

Today, I give to you A Husbands Joyful Rosary: Meditations of the Joyful Mysteries. I love the Rosary so much; I recently dusted off some of my oldest journal notes about multiple Rosary Mediations that I began back in the late 1990’s. I referred to them as “The Career Rosary”, what that means actually is that all our commitments is life revolve around the thoughts and reflections and meditations of the Holy Rosary. Today I will share with you the meditations of a husband spiritual role in The Joyful Mysteries:

1.   The Annunciation: Dear Lord in HUMILITY, I ask that you and our Lady guide my heart in this most Joyful Mystery to be a better more devout, sincere husband. The Annunciation has taught me of the great humility Mary had before God in His request. In this mystery I ask for your blessing that I may continue to stay selfless, always keeping my cutie pie first; I also wish to continue to be very consistent in the small things that she relies so much upon me in (working- keeping my job; helping out at home and with our kids); I also accept her criticism, and admitting to her when I am wrong. Furthermore Lord I shall always accept her apology immediately, never allowing her to feel unforgiving; and I will be generous when I am really right and she is really wrong, never making her feel belittled. I offer all this up to you my Lord. (Our Father who art in Heaven…)

2.   The Visitation: Dear Lord in CHARITY, as we enter into the second Joyful Mystery I ask for you to help me to be an even better husband in Charity, real Charity, the Charity that becomes implanted in my heart loving my precious wife like never before. I know Lord that this Charity means I will never become a judge against my love and that my kindness and understanding grows deeper in my true love for her. I won’t ever take advantage of her weaknesses or shortcomings; and my patience and love will help guide me only to love her with completely unlimited understanding and patience. This Charity I speak of is fully focused on my devout love for You my Lord. Your way is the best way and only way for me to love my precious wife with all my heart. (Our Father who art in Heaven…)

3.   The Birth of Jesus: Dear Lord in SPIRITUAL POVERTY, as I begin this third Joyful Mystery, I continue to ask that You guide my heart to be a better husband. Know Lord, that in my union with my wife, a relationship I place much value upon; even in the most difficult of times, I shall always love her. For she is the woman You have blessed my life with; I will always come to You my Lord for strength, for in You my weakness will be made perfect in the strength You work through me. Nothing in this life will ever draw my attention away from You or her Lord. Nothing in this life will ever distract or derail that which holds the most value to my life. For in possessing nothing, I shall be able to attain all things. (Our Father who art in Heaven…)

4.   The Presentation of Jesus in The Temple: Dear Lord in OBEDIENCE I begin this forth Joyful Mystery, asking that You always continue to draw my heart ever closer to You. My life shall always remain open to God’s Will, this openness will empty my heart of all of its selfishness; asking You alone Lord to guide my heart ever closer to You; while I continue to always direct my precious wife to You. As You Lord were brought to the Temple in obedience to the law, I to shall direct and bring my wife and our family to You Lord, to Your altar, in Your presence. In your abundant love Lord we shall grow completely aware of Your invitation to unite with You in that love. (Our Father who art in Heaven…)

5.   The Finding of Jesus in The Temple: Dear Lord in the Spirit of PIETY I come before you in this fifth Joyful Mystery. In the true Spirit of Piety I shall always desire to do what is pleasing to You Lord. My role as a husband is one that I do take seriously. Yes we have had our share of challenges and obstacles, our life shall always have these things that interfere with our focus and our purpose. Today Lord I promise to continue living a life that is pleasing to You, no habits or addictions shall ever come before You; and in doing so they shall deepen my love for You and for the wife You have blessed my life with. Hand in hand to the altar before You Lord; marriage is a sacred alliance of two souls united as one, to love and honor You alone... Together Lord. (Our Father who art in Heaven…)

“Jesus, I Shall Always Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Christmas 2012 - Challenge

BEADS OF JOY 11-23-12 “Christmas 2012 Challenge”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

I CHALLENGE YOU: Here’s a switch up, consider giving to Jesus yourself more fully while giving Jesus to others for Christmas… Today’s world is changing, and not necessarily in a good way, but it is in some ways good that many more are turning to God for answers. Let us in our own lives, start to more seriously give Jesus more and more of ourselves to Him, here are just a few ideas to start with:

1.    Humility: This is the truest most difficult gift to give, not impossible, but difficult indeed… Anything I share I have lived and I have done. I won’t ever challenge anything to anyone if I myself haven’t already been down that road. This gift needs to be practiced in all aspects of our life. Humility is a hard teaching. We must learn to swallow our own pride and our own desires, placing others wishes and desires first, always. By doing this we offer the pain of it to our Lord. It is humility that changes us, we are nothing without Jesus, and humility brings that reality into the light for us to see.

2.    Confession: Another very difficult gift to give to our Lord, more difficult when the reality is just you sitting face to face with a priest; though you can sit behind a screen if you feel more comfortable. I guess the first step here in that this gift is the one gift that helps you take away all that comes between you and Jesus. The straight and narrow path that leads us directly to Jesus has no room for our own selfish desires and the sins we embrace. And we do have sins that we embrace, we all know that. The sins we say to ourselves, “Oh that’s harmless, no one is being hurt by that.” We think that, forgetting that even if no one else knows or sees or is affected by what we are doing; Jesus has taken to heart our disrespect and lack of true love for Him.

3.    Serving Others: This gift is a gift by example that Jesus himself gives to us every single day. Honestly you should consider this to be one of the greatest gifts you can ever give to Jesus. Placing others first is an honor, giving to others your time, your stuff and your treasures; don’t hold back my sisters and brothers. It is so wonderful when we can indeed help others with our words of love, our words of encouragement, our support and love always unconditionally.

This is just a mere start to so many more gifts I want to share with all of you. Just think of the possibilities if so many more of us, together start putting Jesus and others first in our lives. This world would change in so many positive ways.

Please know that I am praying for all of you, and I mean that. You guys have been the greatest GIFT that our Lord has given me the opportunity to love and embrace and pray with each day. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, pray for you and ask for God’s blessings for your families, your challenges, your diseases and all that hinder your time away from Jesus…  

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Encouraging Words To All

BEADS OF JOY 11-11-12 “Encouraging Words To All”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

I would like to take this time in this short note to encourage you to Pray The Rosary. LOL. I wonder how many people knew I’d say that. Of cause I wish to also encourage you to be very creative with the skills and passions that God has instilled in your hearts; and I’d also like to encourage you to be very out-going and friendly encouraging others to love Jesus and Mary; and yes I would encourage you to be forgiving always, which isn’t always easy, but should still be encouraged. But today for now at the beginning of this blog, I say to you...

“Take up your rosary, and follow after Jesus, with Mary by your side.”

The Rosary is jam packed with so much PEACE and so much LOVE and so much JOY that once you get seriously started in praying the Rosary everyday; you will find out that your desire to Pray The Rosary everyday will increase. Take a moment to look at the SPECIAL gifts… the Fruit of these most blessed mysteries…

The Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation – Humility, trusting fully in God.
2. The Visitation – Love of Neighbor always, embrace them.
3. Birth of Jesus – Poverty has it’s Joy wrapped up in Jesus.
4. Presentation of Jesus in The Temple – Obedience to God.
5. Finding of Jesus in The Temple – Joy of finding Jesus in your life.

The Luminous Mysteries
1. Baptism of Jesus – Openness to The Holy Spirit.
2. Wedding at Cana – Mother Mary always leads us to Jesus.
3. Proclaiming The Kingdom – Repentance and Trust in God.
4. Transfiguration – Our constant desire for holiness.
5. Institution of The Eucharist – To always be able to adore Him in His presence.

The Sorrowful Mysteries

1. Agony In The Garden – True sorrow for our sins.
2. Scourging At The Pillar – Purity in all that we do.
3. Crowning With Thorns – Courage for our faith.
4. Carrying of The Cross – Patience and strength.
5. Crucifixion of Jesus – Perseverance in all things.

The Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection of Jesus – FAITH
2. Ascension of Jesus – HOPE
3. Descent of the Holy Spirit – LOVE
4. Assumption of Mary – Grace of a Happy Death.
5. Coronation of Mary – Trust in Mary’s Intercession for our prayers.

Now do you see how EXCITING the Rosary is !!!

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Sell All You Have

BEADS OF JOY 10-14-12 

“Sell All You Have”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

Today’s gospel can be looked upon as a very hard teaching indeed; but instead let us rather see it as a wakeup call. Many of us have possessions that we cherish, enjoy, and love to share with others; but with that said, we must realize that some of us may have possessions that we worship and cherish beyond what we may ever admit to. Today we find Jesus speaking to a man, who seems to be a man of wealth and possessions. Let us look at Mark 10:17-30 (Treasure In Heaven). While having nice things isn’t a bad thing; and while having much treasure in wealth is also not a bad thing, let us not lose sight of God who has blessed you with these things. Many people live this life thinking, “Look at what I have done, how wonderful and how smart I am.” That will be the beginning of a very bad direction for our thoughts to go. We must be in the right mindset with what this life is truly all about.

Let us consider thinking like this, here is a story to explain it: One day a man, happen to come upon a place where he saw God. He thought, "Wow, I see God." Well the man came over to God and God and turned and looked at the man and said, “I have been waiting for you.” This startled the man, but he gained his composure and asked, “Me? Why are you waiting for me?” God then said to the man, “To ask you for a few things.” This was something the man did not understand, but since he did believe in God, he was open to the thought of listening and learning about what God wanted to speak to him about. To begin with God said to the man, “I see you are living a comfortable life.” The man responded, “Yes, I have a good job, a healthy family and future that looks very promising.” God said, “I will ask for a few things before you leave me.” The man immediately said, “Yes Lord, what can I do for you.”

God said, “I want your home.” The man said, “Ok, you can have it.”
God said, “Do you have a wallet? I want that to.” The man reluctantly said, “Ok?”
God said, “I see you have a car, I want that.” The man said, “What? OK??”
God said, “Ah, a Most Blessed family.” The man jumped up and said, “What?? You want them to??” God responded immediately, “Yes I want them to!”
The man was shocked he sat back and said, “Lord you have taken everything that I have, everything that I own, everything that I possess, everyone that I love, leaving me with nothing??” God got real close to the man, put His arm around the man’s shoulder and pulled him in, whispering in his ear. “Take all these things I have asked from you, handle them with great care and respect them and continue to use them honoring me. Remember that all these things are mine first and always shall be, but I shall entrust them to you.” The man was now smiling ear to ear knowing that he had not lost one thing, he didn’t have to lose anything in order to love and worship God. This man did learn a great deal about what all these treasures in his life now meant to him.

God offers to each of us treasure, treasure beyond what the world could or would ever consider treasure. These blessings are priceless and these blessings are from Him, let us live a life free from pride and selfishness in these treasures, instead let us live our lives possessing them for His glory, honoring Him with them; knowing that they are and have always been His first. The treasures we must seek in this life should be the treasures that are from God alone. Never let anything in this life come between you and Him. This will be a most blessed legacy to pass onto your children and grandchildren; many generations will be blessed by the choices you make.

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

My Strength Found In Prayer

BEADS OF JOY 10-01-12 “My Strength Found In Prayer”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

As many of you know we have our share of families’ challenges. And of cause this economy wreaks havoc to no end on top of everything. But today I am writing a note to assure you; that in our prayerful community of our prayer ministry, I find such tremendous strength. That is why I try to keep it flowing 24/7 with an open invitation to all to join me. I pray that all of you to, like me, as you face the challenges find strength in our united prayers. Our family suffers with many tears from time to time; Chrissy don’t deserve what she is suffering with. Watching a beautiful, loving, caring mom become frail and weak before our eyes rips me apart inside. I would gladly take that cancer entirely from her lungs and jam it up in mine, and suffer for her, die need be it that be God’s will, just so she don’t have to suffer any more, ever again.

There aren’t any simple fixes to all these issues, our future path is unknown, and the outcome to so many of these issues could be devastating in their own right individually. But with that all said, know that my own personal TRUST and FAITH in my LORD is solid. I’ll correct that, it’s not just solid, it’s ROCK SOLID. Jesus alone gives me so much strength I can’t find enough words or expressions to share it to the level it rightfully deserves.

A quick little background will help you understand the gist of impact. In the past, the earlier year of our marriage and the bringing up our 5 kids was spectacular. I was in business with my dad, a 25% owner, I ran our business and my freedoms were tremendous. We had several cars, a summer home in Shohola, PA; and a brand new camper set up in a seasonal campsite in south Jersey (Port Republic, NJ), about 20 minutes out of Atlantic City. Money was never an issue; our weekend spending was beyond stupid. The money pit, even if it ran dry, always got refilled every single week. Put it this way, what I make weekly now, we use to just blow away on the weekends back then. Have you ever gone shopping and just swiped your card, and never thought for a second or even cared how much you just spent; well that’s how we use to live and spend back then. I wouldn’t say we were rich, per say; but the flow of cash was so steady that money was never ever an issue… like ever… J

God has taught me much about respecting what He has given me and my family. Back then we gave tremendously to our church and we often times helped others when they were struggling, that was always a normal part of our lives. Generosity was key, that’s why I get pissed off when I see wealthy families I clearly know who can afford to; stubbornly hoard their cash while they watch others struggle. God blesses us so that we can bless others.

Fast Forward……Now reality check, but so much thanksgiving as we struggle meeting our daily and monthly needs as a family. Chrissy’s health issues are front and center in our everyday choices and needs. Meeting her nutritional daily needs every single day is impossible and something we truly cannot maintain. She is supposed to be on a high protein diet. On top of that we have car challenges, computer challenges, food challenges and my hours at work changes way too much at times, and they are even decreasing as each week passes. No complaints and please no pity. Just facts, and the chance for me to share with all of you, how real we really are. Thank you all for your prayers, thoughts and a HUGE thank you for joining me in prayer as much as so many of you do. It’s the greatest gift you have given to me and my family.

I embrace poverty with a heart of love, I am ever thankful and grateful for the change; I'm not happy that Chrissy is suffering. The wounds that bind her, hurt me. I would die for her in a heart beat so that she wouldn't have to suffer any longer. All this worldly crap means nothing when the one you love so much is suffering. 

“Jesus, I Trust in You.”

Your Brother in Christ Jesus
and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Extraordinary Man of Faith

BEADS OF JOY 9-17-12 “Extraordinary Man of Faith”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

This morning we read of a certain Centurion who demonstrated his extraordinary faith; such a strong faith that even Jesus was astonished. Today we are reflecting on Luke 7:1-10 (A Centurion’s Faith); “When Jesus heard this he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude that followed him, I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." When we are seeking our Lord, not only to have our prayers answered, but in building our relationship with Him; do we seek Him confidently knowing who He really is? Are we even bold enough in our own lives to step outside of our comfort zone to seek Jesus? In direct reflection to today’s gospel, let us keep in mind this Centurion was a Roman Official seeking out after Jesus; knowing our Lord’s healing power and believing in Him in his approach. This man was taking a most daring risk with his own life to seek out Jesus. But we must note that he remained bold and did not back down, and continued to have a conversation with our Lord.

How courageous are you? Do you love those around you so much that you would approach Jesus on behalf of another, regardless of who is around when you approach Him? I have always said throughout the years, “You can rely on me spiritually, no matter what I shall always remain at my post, even if I must die here.” I am using myself as an example only to show you this; that even me, a sinner, a regular Joe with no formal education, no doctorate, nothing but pure faith in Jesus, that even I have the strength (through Jesus) to remain strong in my faith. Let us never lose heart, or ever be intimidated by what another might say; rather be strong and solid and loyal to God alone. For in the end, at the end of this life, when the smoke clears and all the noise and activities and plans and calendars of this life fade away; it’ll be just you and God standing alone together face to face. That my friends is our life’s reality, a reality we can prepare for now while we still have time.

Do you have the backbone, when it comes to your faith? Will you step out in faith boldly proclaiming your love and faith in Jesus Christ? The time is now and the place is in your heart to begin. With humility and confidence we place everything on the line and we follow a God who loves us and forgives us; and who always gives us His mercy and love no matter what we do. We must remember that God does not love us because we love Him; He loves us no matter how we feel about Him. His love for us is not based on conditions or if you do, I do; His love is unconditional at all times. Let us follow Him and love Him, by His example of unconditional love for us. God is always in charge, remembering and knowing that keeps all things in perspective. Have a great day my sister and brothers, God Bless.

Your Brother in Christ Jesus and His Most Precious Mother Mary, Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Who Do You Say I Am?

BEADS OF JOY 9-16-12 “Who Do You Say I Am?”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS

My Friends,

What a question to begin with, but an important one we all must consider, either in private or in public. Today’s gospel can be found in Mark 8:27-35 (Who Do People Say That I Am?). I think it’s rather remarkable that even today; two thousand plus years later, so many people have such a challenge trying to identify who Jesus is. It was through Peter’s faith that he was the first disciple to identify Jesus boldly and directly. But honestly why is it so difficult for others to say the same thing? I think I know why. Look at what Jesus said at the end of today’s passage, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.” That is some heavy stuff for anyone seeking to find pleasure, success and wealth in this life.

So if we were to identify Jesus as Lord and Savior and we acknowledge His Lordship, our life would be different; different how? He is asking us to deny our own selfish desires of what we want, and then He said we would have to carry our own cross and while carrying that cross we are to follow after Jesus, and that’s not even the end of it, there’s more. He further said we must lose our lives, lose our lives???? Oh my, so I can’t live my life, my way, doing what I want, and what I desire when I want, with whom I want. And then He finishes that thought with, whoever loses their lives will be the ones who actually save their lives. I love this scripture!! So let’s understand this more clearly, we must live a life totally and completely submissive to Our Lord’s wishes and Will for us, and forget our own personal desires and goals. Who on earth would want to do that? What a waste of life, what a waste of time??? NO IT’S NOT!!! Think about it. Life here on earth is what about 50-60-70-80 year’s long, ok maybe some will see their 90’s and even 100, then what? I think the real question is: Where do you wish to spend eternity? For where your heart is, there your treasure will be… And remember eternity is time without measure... endless.

This is indeed a very hard teaching, a scripture more than most likely no one will really even attempt to even try to live. I say boo who: Just do it!!! I promise you will never ever regret giving up pretty much everything and then devoting as much time as you possibly can to Him; in prayer, in fellowship, in sharing, writing, talking, celebrating and telling everyone of your love for Him. It was the spring of 1983 for me (29 years ago), that marked the end of the old me that lived for me and pretty much excluded Jesus from most of, if not all of my life. But a new me was born-again, not a mini-me (lol), but rather a spiritually awaken me, a very alive part of me that has made my life absolutely incredible. I am forever on cloud nine, bubbly excited, wound up, very optimistic and I always filled with tremendous joy and tremendous energy. Just the mere thought of Jesus, or Mary, or scripture, or sharing my faith with others, or uniting in prayer and the excitement levels inside me reach earth shaking levels that wined me up.

I challenge you today: To begin living a life that completely, fully puts Jesus first in all that you do, all that you are responsible for and all that you so desire. Make Him the center of your everything, every single day.

Your Brother in Christ Jesus and His Most Precious Mother Mary, Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS

Making A Strong Return

BEADS OF JOY 9-07-12 "Making a Strong Return”
©2012 James Dacey, Jr. OFS


My Friends,

Thank you all for having patience with me. My duties at home and my work schedule and everything else that seems to find its way into my life, distract me from this wonderful, blessed daily blog. This month (September) I have made a commitment to rejuvenate topics, retreats, weekly journeys.

Of cause everything I share in some way always involves Our Most Blessed Wonderful Beautiful Blessed Mother. I really love her so much. This newly revitalized blog will hopefully grab your hearts and your Spirits even more than before. I will take you on a "Marital Journey", a "Servant's Journey", and a hidden specialty I wrote many many years ago, back when me and Fr. Peter Calabrese use to spend so much time together at Our Lady of Fatima's Shrine in Lewiston, NY. We use to live 6 miles away from the Shrine, need I say more; I practically lived there. When I first met Fr. Julio, he asked if I'd like to live on the grounds, because I was there so much. I told him, if my wife and 5 kids can move in with me... YES !!!! anyway I am diverting away from what I was saying. Back then I was working on a project called, "The Career Rosary". Yes it is as intriguing as it sounds. I will share all my written treasures of the past 29 years. That is actually 13 boxes of journals and notes and writings. I hope the Spiritual future for all of us is exciting and incredible and we all get even closer to Jesus...

I really love you guys with all my heart. Hold tight and watch this blog explode with excitement and Joy unlimited..


Your Brother in Christ Jesus and His Most Precious Mother Mary,
Jimmy (The Rosary Man) Dacey Jr OFS