Christopher Osgood

Update from seminary

2010-04-14T10:40:00.000-04:00

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

Alleluia Christ is risen! I should first start this LONG overdue update with an apology. In my last update (back in Sept) I told you that I hope to give an update often. Well, it looks like you will only have two updates this school year.

I am now in the final weeks of the school year here at Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary of the West. And this year has been full of ups and downs. One of the greatest things about being in seminary is being able to live just a few hundred yards from Christ in the chapel. Another great thing is all of the friendships I have made. I shouldn’t really say friendships, I should say family. These men have become my brothers, and it is amazing the effect we have on each other.

There have been and still are many great things about seminary, but there have been some down times too. I have really struggled this year with academics, and have had very little free time (one reason why there has not been an update in awhile). The academics are tough, but they are slowly improving.

It is amazing to see how much one can learn about oneself if they spend just one year in formation (seminary or convent). I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to be here and study for the priesthood! And I can see a lot of growth happening.

Things are going well, and I ask for your prayers for the men who are preparing for Ordination to the Deaconate and the Priesthood. I also ask of your prayers for a strong finish to the end of this school year. And I appreciate all of your support and prayers, and rest assured that you are in my prayers every day!

Happy Easter Season,
Chris Osgood

PS: I just found out on Monday that I will be living at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Cincinnati for the summer!

Big News for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati!

2009-12-21T10:45:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Archbishop Pilarczyk celebrated his 50th anniversary as a priest. He was Ordained a priest on December 20, along with being Ordained a bishop on that same date, a number of years later.

And today at 6:00 AM our time, he retired. And we received a new Ordinary! Archbishop Schnurr is the 10th Ordinary of Cincinnati. There will be a press conference at 12:30 with the new Archbishop.

Here is his first address to his flock of Cincinnati:

Thank you Archbishop Pilarczyk for 50 great years of service, and welcome Archbishop Schnurr!

Merry Christmas from the Seminary!

2009-12-09T17:25:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from a few seminarians!

Pictures of Churches I went to over Thanksgiving Break 09

2009-12-09T10:05:00.000-05:00

Navy vs Notre Dame

2009-12-06T17:06:00.009-05:00

A number of weeks ago I was invited to attend the Navy, Notre Dame game in South Bend, IN. For those of you who don't know, my favorite college team is the Naval Academy. However, my number two team is Notre Dame, then Ohio State at third.

The picture bellow is of a small part of the group I went with. The picture above is of my high school teacher, his myself, his son and his nephew. We had a great time!

The picture bellow is of people that we parked next too. They are the class of 1966 from the Naval Academy. So of course I spent some time with them!

These are the Heisman Trophy Winners from Notre Dame!

And Navy won!

I need a car

2009-11-06T11:40:00.001-05:00

Does anyone know anyone that wants to give away a car for free? My car finally quit on me today. It won't turn over or anything. Mostly to the water damage. I thought I fixed all of the leaks but I guess not.

Navy at Notre Dame

2009-11-04T15:05:00.000-05:00

This Saturday I will be fortunate enough to attend the Navy vs Notre Dame game. What is interesting about this game, is that it is a very big rivalry (as most people know). They will be meeting for the 83rd time in series history (longest continuing series in the nation), Navy (6-3) and 19th-ranked Notre Dame (6-2).

Despite the one-sided result the last few decades, most Notre Dame and Navy fans consider the series a sacred tradition for historical reasons. Notre Dame, like many colleges, faced severe financial difficulties during World War II. The US Navy made Notre Dame a training center and paid enough for usage of the facilities, with federal tax money, to keep the University afloat. Notre Dame has since extended an open invitation for Navy to play the Irish in football and considers the game annual repayment on a debt of honor. The series is marked by mutual respect, as evidenced by each team standing at attention during the playing of the other's alma mater after the game, a tradition that started in 2005. Navy's athletic director, on renewing the series through 2016, remarked "...it is of great interest to our collective national audience of Irish fans, Naval Academy alumni, and the Navy family at large." The series is scheduled to continue indefinitely; renewals are a mere formality.

Now, although many people expect Notre Dame to crush Navy, I beg to differ. As the nation watched this Midshipman team take on the Ohio State Buckeyes, they saw a team that many people may have forgotten about, the United States Naval Academy, or better known as the MIDSHIPMEN!

Yes, Navy did have a tough loss last week to Temple. But, could that loss actually help them when they take on the Fighting Irish? Within their last seven years Navy is 20-6 in their next game after a loss. They are also 29-18 on the road within those last six years, 13th best in the nation. And if that isn't enough for you, then check this out:

Over the last six years, the Navy football team has turned in a 21-8 (.724) record in games played after Oct. 31, winning 14 of the last 18 games. The Mids are averaging 35.8 points per game in games played in November and December over the last six years (1,039 pts / 29 gms).

So what is my prediction for this years game?

NAVY 31 NOTRE DAME 27 What is your prediction?

Update from the Seminary

2009-11-02T14:34:00.001-05:00

Happy All Souls Day!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful All Souls Day and is remembering their loved ones who have gone before us. I am sure that by now you are all realizing that an update every week is probably not going to happen. There is a lot going on here at the seminary, but at the same time not a lot. Most of our time is in studies and prayer, which is wonderful!

First of all, I want to thank everyone that helped donate Rosaries. The trip was a great success and there is more information along with pictures from his trip on my blog: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/10/rosary-mission-was-success.html

A few weeks ago the seminary put on a golf tournament. We put it on every year and invite seminarians from all over. We had around eleven teams and men from four seminaries. It was a great time! My dad even came down and played on my team. http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/10/21st-seminary-golf-tournament.html

About two weeks ago, I attended the Coming Home Network Conference with one of my classmates and a few other seminarians from Cincinnati. It was great to meet new people and catch up with old friends. If you haven't attended one of these conferences before, you NEED too! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/10/coming-home-network-2009.html

There was a Saint Party here at the seminary last Wednesday night. We all had to dress up as a saint and the priests had to guess who we were and then judge us. Another guy and myself dressed up as Holy Innocents and ended up winning first place! It was a lot of fun and I am already looking forward to next year.

Things are going well here and we are in our last week of classes. After this week we will have finals and then go on retreat for a week, then Thanksgiving break for a week. Please keep us in your prayers throughout these next few weeks as our quarter comes to a close.

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Rosary Mission was a success!

2009-10-28T13:59:00.000-04:00

A number of weeks ago I was asked by a friend to send him as many Rosary's as I could find. He was going to Honduras to give orphans Rosaries and help out the Franciscan Sisters down there. Well, when he came back he sent me a number of pictures to share with you all and let you know that the mission was a success!

Thanks to your generosity and prayers Chris was able to pass out over 20 LBS of Rosaries (he counted in pounds because that is what the airport told him that one bag was). That is A LOT of Rosaries!!!

The children went crazy trying to get one. They all wanted one and they all got one! Here are a few pictures from his trip:

Coming Home Network 2009

2009-10-28T12:41:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, a classmate of mine and myself went up to Columbus, OH for the Coming Home Network Conference on Authority. We stayed at the Pontifical College Josephinum (seminary in Columbus), while we attended the conference.

I ran into a number of friends that I have met from the previous year. On Friday night when the talks were over, a group of us went to the bar on the other side of the hotel and talk about what we have been doing over the last year.The man on the far left is a lay person from Cincinnati, then Chris Geiger (seminarian), then Paul, Mike and myself who are all three Protestant Clergy converts.

Then on Saturday night Fr. Kyle Schnippel led the Holy Hour but asked the Cincinnati Seminarians to serve during it. Here is a picture of us in the Sacristy.

College seminarians: Tim Fahey (who will be in my class when he finishes college) and David Doseck (who will be one year behind us when he gets out of college). Then myself and Chris Geiger who are both Pre-theology 1.

21st Seminary Golf Tournament

2009-10-28T10:27:00.006-04:00

About two weeks ago on October 17, our seminary held their 21st annual Seminary Golf Tournament. We had a number of seminaries come and participate in it.

My dad came down and played on my team, along with two men from my class. Our team name was Post PARtum Disorder. We had a lot of fun. We didn't win, but we did really good and shot a 78 when par was 72.

Here are some pictures:

This was our team, Brian Archdeacon, Paul Osgood (my dad), myself, and Matt Feist.

Here are pictures of other teams, right before my camera died on me.

Has it really been 4 weeks?

2009-10-27T00:26:00.004-04:00

I didn't even realize it has been this long since I have last posted. I guess these posts every week might turn into once a month. It doesn't seem that long ago, but that could be because I read other blogs so I feel like I am always on.

Anyway, not to mislead you, but I am going to post things this week over the last few weeks. It has been very busy. Please continue to pray for us though!

First parish assignment!

2009-10-01T23:34:00.002-04:00

Earlier today all of the pre-theology 1 and 2 men got their parish assignments for the school year. Our job during the school year is to spend at least 15 hours observing the parish and how things operate. It is not a hands on assignment, but instead to let us become familiar with how a parish operates.

I have been assigned to St. Thomas More, here in Cincinnati, OH. I am really excited about this opportunity and look forward to learning the insides of a parish (instead of the Baptist Church lol).

What have I been up to?

2009-09-30T14:28:00.003-04:00

Greetings from the seminary!

There has been a lot going on over the past few weeks. And I apologize for not having the time to send out an update. Seminary life is much different from Liberty.

This update starts with the night before family weekend. It was a very uplifting night for the seminary; everyone was excited to see their families the next day. Here is a short post on the night with 2 pics.

The next day was family weekend. It was a great relief for many of the men. It gave us all a chance to break away from our studies and be refreshed with our families! Here is a post with more info and pictures from the day.

Then, this past weekend I went down to New Hope, KY to visit my great aunt. But, there was a problem on the way down; my car had an inch or two of water in it. There is a leak for the rain to get in.

Well, when I got there we had a birthday party for her! And while I was there, I was able to spend time with a close priest friend of mine (Fr. Hall). He actually went to the same seminary I am at! Here are a few pictures and more info on the party.

And finally, Saturday was the big day! I spent all afternoon and evening with both archbishops of Cincinnati! It was great! Click here.

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

How did you spend your Saturday?

2009-09-30T11:45:00.003-04:00

I spent mine with two archbishops!

Saturday evening started out at Credo (Catholic Youth Conference in Cincinnati). Archbishop Schnurr (Coadjutor Archbishop of Cincinnati) celebrated Mass there and asked some of the seminarians to serve. Here are some pictures:

Right after Mass, Archbishop Schnurr and some of the seminarians gave a vocation talk. I however, had to leave right after Mass to meet Archbishop Pilarczyk at his residence to go to the Cincinnati Symphony.

It was my first time attending a symphony, and I really enjoyed it. It was also great to spend some time with the archbishop!

80th birthday!!!

2009-09-30T10:47:00.007-04:00

This past Friday (September 25), I went down to New Hope, KY. There was a birthday for my Great Aunt Mary Theresa; she turned 80 earlier this month.

While I was down there, I was able to spend time with Fr. Hall (who went to the same seminary I am in)! We shared stories and he gave me a few tips for the seminary.

Also, after the party was over, I was able to get a few tips on Latin (something I have been struggling with). Over all Friday was a great day!

Family Weekend 2009

2009-09-29T20:57:00.007-04:00

Family Weekend 2009 was a great time for the seminary! It was a breath of fresh air for many of the guys (including me). It was a chance to relax and spend time with family.

Although I am only an hour away from my family, I hardly have anytime to talk to them. It is weird, when I was at Liberty (7 hours away) I would talk to them every other day. This is how busy we are at the seminary. So family weekend was a GREAT weekend!

My grandparents on my dad's side came down, along with my mom, dad, two sisters and my niece!

Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my camera to take pictures. So there really aren't any of my family. But, I was able to get these pictures from other seminarians. Enjoy!

What do seminarians do in their free-time?

2009-09-29T18:51:00.010-04:00

Although this post is about 2 weeks late, I am still going to post it.

The night before family weekend, it seemed as if there were parties going on right and left. All of the seminarians and priests were getting together and spread all throughout the Seminary having a great time.

I managed to go to one of them (what I think was the best one). There was a small group of seminarians and priests playing music and singing. It was a great time! I was only able to get two pictures from the night, but trust me there were many more people there!

Update?

2009-09-28T23:24:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone,

I just want to apologize for not getting an update out for the past week or two. I will send one out tomorrow afternoon (with pictures).

A lot has been going on here at the seminary, and I have been very busy studying.

If you have called me and I have not answered or returned your call, I am deeply sorry. I will try to call you back as soon as I get some time. Like I said, it is very busy here.

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Bar Jonah

2009-09-15T15:25:00.002-04:00

Yesterday and today we had all the Jr. priests for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati here at the seminary (men Ordained within the last 4 years). It was a great chance for the seminarians to catch up with some of their friends, and meet new men studying (like myself).

To see their excitement for the priesthood was great! I think it really helped the seminarians know that this isn't just a job, but a life! These young priests are such an inspiration to the seminarians and help us see why we are studying for the priesthood.

Last night we all met up in Bar Jonah (the student bar) and just sat around and chatted. It was fun to hear their stories of the priesthood, but even funner to hear their stories of when they were in seminary. It is amazing to see how much this seminary has changed just within the last few years.

Great things are happening for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, and I am blessed that God is letting me be apart of it!

NAVY FOOTBALL

2009-09-12T08:45:00.001-04:00

GO NAVY!!!
BEAT Louisiana Tech!!!

Update from the Seminary

2009-09-11T21:35:00.001-04:00

Greetings everyone!

Although there is a lot going on here at the seminary, this week's post is going to be a bit short (mostly just links to my blog with a lot of pictures on the blog).

The first link is a picture of my classmates who I will be ordained with, 7 years from now. Also, one of our classmates is not in this picture, because he is finishing up the college program first. But he will join us in 2 years. The names are listed under the picture: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/09/class-of-pre-theology-1.html Please pray for us all!

The second link are pictures of my room here at the seminary. Some people have asked for pictures, so I just put them on my blog. It is a really nice room! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/09/my-new-room.html

The third link are more pictures from the fireworks: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/09/labor-day-fireworks.html

And the last link is about our community night. Every Wednesday night is community night. We usually dress up in suit and tie and have a wonderful dinner. After dinner we all change and do some kind of activity. These are pictures from Ultimate Frisbee: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/09/ultimate-frisbee.html

Ok, so this is turning out to be a longer email than expected. But I will say that the classes have been great! I am learning a lot here, and I love every bit of it! Please do pray for all of the seminarians here and that we will all be able to further discern God's will for our lives.

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Ultimate Frisbee

2009-09-10T09:15:00.000-04:00

Last night was community night here at the seminary. Every Wednesday we all dress up, go to Mass, have dinner and then do some sort of activity. Last night we played Ultimate Frisbee! My team ended up losing really bad, so we wont say the score.

The class of Pre-Theology 1

2009-09-10T06:24:00.001-04:00

This is my class. All five of us are studying for the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. There will be one more joining us in two years (he is finishing up the college program).

From left to right: Christopher Osgood, Eric Roush, Brian Archdeacon, Chris Geiger and Matt Feist. The one who will be joining us is Tim Fahey.

Please pray for us!

My new room!

2009-09-10T01:15:00.000-04:00

This is my new room for the next 7 years (unless I decide to move to a different room):

Labor Day Fireworks

2009-09-09T23:07:00.007-04:00

This past Sunday 8 of the seminarians (including me) went to the Labor Day Fireworks on the Ohio River. We went to a beautiful parish and had dinner with the parishioners and then sat back and watched the show! Here are some pictures:
These are the 8 guys that went: Eric Roush, Chris Osgood, Chris Conlon (top), Chris Geiger (bottom), Rob Muhlenkamp, Daniel Finnerty, Matt Feist, and Brian Archdeacon.

Seminary life, thus far

2009-09-02T09:02:00.002-04:00

Well, this week has been pretty easy so far. We have been very busy, but at the same time not so busy.

We have gone to a number of different meetings, signed up for insurance, changed our address, registered to vote, signed up for classes and much more!

Last night the 5 men (including myself) from pre-theology 1 all went out to Graeters to get some ice-cream and bond. There we decided what committee we would be nominated to, and I was elected to serve on the Student Life committee.

Well, I would love to write more, but I am off to more meetings.

Update

2009-08-31T19:35:00.002-04:00

Greetings from Mount Saint Mary's Seminary of the West (MTSM)!

I know it has been a long time since I have last sent out an update, but I do hope to start sending them every week again. If you would not like to receive these weekly updates, then just email me back and let me know. I am now all moved in here at the seminary and will be starting Pre-theology 1 this year. We have already started with orientation and are getting used to the seminary. We have 12 men that have entered the seminary this year from 4 different dioceses!

In Pre-Theology 1 for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, there are 5 men! If you go here, you will see a list of all the men studying for the priesthood with Cincinnati: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/08/seminarians-for-arch-diocese-of.html

If you are interested in reading about my vocation story, you can read it here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/07/story-of-my-vocation.html

And the what has been going on within this last week is right here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/08/before-entering.html

Also, if you are interested in receiving these updates through email, then email me at: cosgood09@gmail.com with subject "ADD ME!!!"

In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Before Entering

2009-08-31T16:10:00.000-04:00

There are many things that go through a man's mind before entering the seminary. Not everyone has the same thoughts about what this life entails. For me, this last week has been really interesting. The realities of seminary and the priesthood have slowly started to set in.

Although I knew long ago that priests are unable to get married and have a family, this reality did not set in for me until last week. Now when most people hear this they ask me, "Why would you want to become a priest if that is so important to you?"

I answer them by referring to a verse that has been coming to my mind a lot: (Mark 8:34): "And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me."

It isn't that I don't want to have a family. It is a matter of what do I love more!

In the past week, I have really been reflecting on Mark 8:34. It is what all priests and seminarians should reflect on. We are denying ourselves and following Him, for His glory. In one sense, our life as we know it is over, but a new one is starting.

One of my classmates, here at the seminary, just gave me a book by Archbishop Sheen, "The Priest Is Not His Own." The title alone is right on the money! Men do not enter the seminary to become rich, famous or anything along those lines. Instead, we enter to help bring others (EVERYONE) closer to God!

Our old life is over, but a new life is beginning!

Please pray for myself and all seminarians around the world.

MOVE IN DAY!!!!!

2009-08-30T09:25:00.001-04:00

Today is move in day at the seminary!!!

Please pray for me and all of my classmates!

Seminarians for the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati

2009-08-26T11:46:00.001-04:00

Fr. Kyle Schnippel at Called by Name has the updated list of all the seminarians for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati:

V Theology (Deacons to be ordained this May)
Rob Muhlenkamp
Tim Ralston

IV Theology
Dan Hess
Adam Puntel
Scott Wright

III Theology (pastoral year)
Dan Hunt
Matt Robben
Marc Soellner

II Theology
Jim Romanello

I Theology
Jerry Bishop
Andrew Cordonnier
Anthony Eichhorn
Brian Phelps
Jim Riehle

Pre-Theology II
Chris Patterson
Chris Conlon

Pre-Theology I
Brian Archdeacon
Matt Feist
Chris Geiger
Chris Osgood
Eric Roush

IV College
Adrian Hilton
Eric Wood

III College
Tim Fahey

II College
David Doseck
Sean Wilson
Alex Witt

I College
Philip Frederick
Jarred Kohn

Please keep all of us in your prayers.

Retired Bishop Carl K. Moeddel Dead at 71

2009-08-26T08:35:00.000-04:00

Earlier yesterday I got the news that retired Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Bishop Moeddel, passed away this morning.

Click here for the official press release.

Party at the University of Dayton

2009-08-25T08:17:00.000-04:00

Last night I went to a small party at UD. It was nice to catch up with some friends that I haven't seen in awhile.

The interesting thing is that every time I go to UD I find myself talking to someone about Catholicism. And to many people's surprise, I am not the one that brings it up. Well, it happened again tonight.

My cousin's neighbors were talking to his housemates about Catholicism. They called me over and asked why I became Catholic and why I wanted to enter the seminary.

It is great to go to UD and evangelise there, but at the same time it is sad because it is a Catholic College and I wish some of the students would be more on fire for their faith.

10 New Seminarians

2009-08-24T14:32:00.000-04:00

Yesterday there was a pig roast at the seminary for all the seminarians, priests and both Archbishops. It was a lot of fun to meet some of the guys and just hang out. Fr. Kyle has more on his blog: Called By Name

Also, including myself there are 10 men entering this fall! Fr. Kyle has more here.

Please pray for us!

Was it seminarian day at the Reds game?

2009-08-21T14:40:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday I went to the Cincinnati Reds game. Unfortunately, they lost to the Giants both nights.

Tuesday night, I went with one of my best friends from high school. His name is Brandon and he is studying for the Assembly of God's Church. It was us two and then his two younger cousins. It was a lot of fun and we won free hot dogs!

On Wednesday night, I went with Matt and Chris (who are entering the seminary with me this fall). In the 5th inning we decided to move down closer to the field. When we did, we ended up running into 7 other college seminarians from Cincinnati and 3 other diocese's. So we sat with them and hung out. It was a lot of fun!

But, even with 10 seminarians present, the reds still lost :-(

A little update

2009-08-21T11:30:00.002-04:00

So I know that a lot has been going on this summer and I haven't written that much. I feel very bad, but, that's life.

At work there has been a very interesting shift that has taken place. Most of my co-workers believed I was entering the Baptist Ministry (because they had no idea I converted). It has opened up a lot of dialogue about the Catholic faith. They are very interested in finding out why someone would give up marriage for church. These questions are coming from both Catholic and non-Catholics.

On the other side, some of my family (who is not Catholic) is very upset about this decision of mine. This past week has been very rough, and I know that this upcoming week will probably be worse. It has been like this most of the summer. It is very upsetting because even if I want to get mad at them, I don't, because they don't know any better.

Well, that's it for now. I will start posting more on here so you will know what is going on at the seminary and all.

God bless,
Chris Osgood

2 weeks!

2009-08-16T11:52:00.002-04:00

There is so much to write about and so little time. So I think I can sum most of it up in:

2 WEEKS LEFT!!!

It breaks my heart

2009-08-09T08:12:00.000-04:00

Since I have become Catholic I have lost many close friends. One of the Baptist Churches I used to attend is right down the street from my house. I drive by it almost every day. It was a church that I volunteered for and preached in every chance I got. They are KJV ONLY and I remember preaching out of the NKJV and being yelled at (I learned very fast not to make that mistake again).

Some of my friends have attended this church and some still do. I have been talking to them about some of the people there, to find out how they are doing. It really breaks my heart to drive by this church everyday and remember the good times I had there, and the bad times I had after I left. It was my dream to one day become the pastor of this church (and I think it was their dream too).

I am writing about this because earlier this week, I ran into a family that belongs to this church and I haven't seen them since I had converted to Catholicism. I said hi and tried to ask how they were doing. But they responded with a hello and then just turned the other way.

When I was on "The Journey Home" (June 9, 2008), that next Sunday the pastor preached about me and stated that I had lost my salvation and that I believe in false teachings.

Well, during this past week, I have thought about attending this church (after Mass) to see how some of the families are. I am still debating this, even though rumor has it they are expecting me to show up and will put me on the spot.

Part of me says don't go and be mad a full of. But, the other part of me really wants to go to see how they are doing. It may seem dumb, but I do feel that it would be closure for me. A way to say good-bye to them.

I am not sure what I am going to do, or what they will do for that matter. But please do keep them in your prayers. Many of them have no idea that I am getting ready to enter the seminary and it could turn very bad very fast.

But let us pray! And especially use the intercessions of our Blessed Mother, St. Paul and St. Dominic. Oh and what the heck, let us ask for the intercessions of Jerry Falwell too!

The rest of Friday and Saturday.

2009-08-08T23:38:00.002-04:00

I ended last post with, "Idk how this day could get any better." Well, it did!

It was a very easy day at work yesterday! And on top of that, people started asking me about why I am wanting to become a priest. Out of nowhere my co-workers and managers started asking me if I was going to be a Baptist Pastor (because I went to Liberty) or a Catholic Priest (because I am Catholic). Not everyone at work knew I was Catholic.

More of the same thing started to happen today. One of my bosses was telling me that his one uncle is a priest, another uncle went to seminary and his aunt is a nun. Most people were shocked and I find it hard to believe (since most of the people I work with are Catholic).

Throughout this weekend I haven't been doing much work, but instead talking about Catholicism to many Catholics and non-Catholics. It has been a very interesting week because it all just came out of nowhere.

What a great Friday!

2009-08-07T15:33:00.002-04:00

This morning I went to Mass and was able to be an Alter Server for the first time! It was a lot of fun but a little confusing.

After Mass Father and I went to breakfast with a group of people from the church. It was nice to meet some more people from St. Henry's.

Then when I got home, I started to play with my niece and then I found 2 graduation checks I never cashed!

Now I am off to work, but idk how this day could get any better!

How many days are left?

2009-08-03T22:33:00.000-04:00

ONLY 27 DAYS TILL I ENTER THE SEMINARY!!!!

The story of my Vocation

2009-07-30T06:53:00.000-04:00

It is amazing to see how God works throughout our lives from the time we are born until the day we take that last breath. Looking back now on the short 23 years of being alive I can see how God has worked in my life! One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Jeremiah 1:5: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…” This verse means a lot to me, because it is exactly how my story begins:

When my mother was pregnant with me, my parents went to Indian lake with my father’s side of the family. While on this trip a priest friend of the family asked my dad, “Are you ready to have a son?” “I am ready financially, but I just don’t know what I am going to do with him,” my dad answered. Then, Father said, “Don’t worry, God knows what He is going to do with your son.”

Just a few years later when I was about 2 years old my grandmother was reading me a story about the birth of Christ. About half way through, I asked my grandmother “Is there more than one God?” She was amazed that someone as young as I would even is capable of asking such a question, and she knew that God was at work in my life.

Then when I was five years I went to Christmas Eve Mass with my grandparents and the priest let all of the children come around the alter during the homily and Eucharistic prayer. Well, I went up and stood by the priest, and during the consecration I started to interrupt him and ask, “Is that really Christ’s blood?”

Now I should make it clear that even though up to this point most of my experiences have been Catholic while I was not baptized. Throughout the next few years of my life my only involvement with church was Christmas Eve Mass with my grandparents.

During my senior year of high school I started attending a Baptist Church every Sunday and was baptized. I also applied to the Naval Academy and a few Christian Colleges (my dream was to enter the Naval Academy and become a fighter pilot). Then on my last night of spring break, I prayed to God, “Do you want me to join the military, or enter the ministry?” The next day, I came home from school and got the mail. I received two letters in the mail; One being a rejection letter from the Naval Academy, and the other being an acceptance letter to a Christian College. I knew that was a clear sign! After receiving the answer to my prayers, I asked my pastor, “What is it like to preach?” He then asked me the youth minister and let me preach once a month.

While attending a community college, I frequently made trips to New Hope, KY and stay with my great aunt. The people there had a huge impact on my conversion! After going there a few times, they asked me, “Are you ready to become Catholic yet?” And I would respond with, “No, I believe everything you have taught me, but I want to get married and become a preacher. And I definitely do NOT want to become a priest!”

I then asked my pastor where I should go to study for the ministry and he suggested Liberty University (LU). I applied, was accepted and received a substantial scholarship from Dr. Jerry Falwell himself. Well, the summer before I attended LU, I went to the Ignite Your Torch Catholic Youth Conference. During this conference there was Eucharistic Adoration every night. And during the last Holy Hour at the conference I realized that Jesus was really present in the Eucharist. This changed my life!

Well, I was only at Liberty for a few months before I realized that the Holy Eucharist was missing in my life. It was then that I knew I couldn't preach something I didn’t fully believe, so I became Catholic during my first year at LU. It was during this time that I lost many of my closest friends, but I knew I was following God’s will. In fact, during my first class of RCIA, they went around the room and asked each person why they wanted to become Catholic. And when it was my turn to answer the question, I said, “I am supposed to be a priest.”

As time went on at Liberty, my vocation to the priesthood seemed to be confirmed more and more. I went on a retreat for Catholic Campus Ministry leaders and a Campus Minister from Radford asked, “Have you ever thought about becoming a priest?” This was NOT what I wanted to hear. In fact, just before I went on this retreat I prayed, “God I will go where you want me to go, I will do what you want me to do; I will become what you want me to become! Just make it my will and make it clear to me.” Well, after what this campus minister told me, I knew my prayers were answered.

After being on this retreat, I started the group called “Catholics at Liberty.” There I started to meet other Catholics at Liberty and I spent most of my time working with this group. It really did help me discern my vocation for the Catholic Priesthood.

It wasn’t until I entered RCIA, that I knew I had a vocation to the priesthood. But now, looking back all throughout my life, I can see the signs there. I can see how God has placed this vocation in my life, even before I was born!

To fulfill this vocation, I now plan on entering the seminary for the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati! But as you can imagine, after graduating from Liberty University, I have some debt that needs to be paid first. Luckily, the Laboure Society is an organization that helps men and women in this same situation. They have so graciously agreed to help out with this debt. But they can’t do this alone; they need our prayers and support! The Laboure Society is doing their best to help support vocations. Your donation to the Laboure Society will not only be supporting many different vocations, but it is also tax deductible!

It's almost over :-(

2009-07-26T14:32:00.003-04:00

Well, it is Sunday afternoon here in New Hope and I am just getting ready to head to Cincinnati for the night. There is a Bible study that is going on at one of my friend's house. I will stop there and stay the night and head back up to Dayton in the morning.

This little get away was exactly what I needed though. I feel so refreshed and at peace! It was perfect! Today we went to Mass at St. Rose in Springfield, KY and instead of having Fr. Hayes (the pastor) we had Fr. Izzo (the Provincial for the Dominicans)! It was a nice surprise to see him there.

Last year during the Ignite Your Torch Youth Conference I was fortunate enough to sit down and talk to him for over an hour about the priesthood! I told him that I was very interested in joining the Dominicans and he told me what the steps where in applying (today I told him I was entering with the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati this fall).

But after this trip, the Dominicans seem pretty nice lol.

Doing better!

2009-07-25T12:51:00.002-04:00

Thank you for all the prayers over the past few weeks!

I am now in New Hope, KY (after a long and horrible car ride). My car still isn't fixed, so I drove my mom's car here (and it is in really bad shape). It started to overheat so I had to drive most of the way with the heat on full blast (in 80 degree weather). But, I made it!

Last night a big group of us went to Louisville to watch "The Human Experience." It was a GREAT movie!!! I recommend having them show it at your next gathering!

After the movie, I was planing to go out to dinner with some friends, but the next thing I knew, my friends where gone and I ended going out to dinner with the producer and main actor of the movie.

Now, I am just relaxing with great friends in New Hope. It is hard to think that just 4 years ago I came here for the first time as a Baptist. This is where I come to regather my thoughts, and recover from everything going on around me. It is so nice and peaceful!

Please consider helping!

2009-07-24T09:15:00.001-04:00

As you may know I have just recently graduated from Liberty University (Jerry Falwell's school). I started there 3 years ago to study for the Baptist Ministry. I wanted to become a Baptist Pastor, get married and have a big family.

Well, after attending LU for only a few months, I soon realized that I couldn't stay Baptist (due to some doctrinal issues). I started going to RCIA and entered the Catholic Church on Easter of 2007. It was during that year that I lost most of my friends and some family because of this decision.

To make a long story short, I ended up staying at Liberty and graduated with a Bachelors in Biblical Studies and a Minor in Youth Ministry. While being there, God so graciously allowed me to start the group Catholics at Liberty. In just 2 short years we grew from 3 members to over 20 Catholics and even more non-Catholics. We saw students who haven't been in a Catholic Church step into one for the first time, some who were really struggling with their faith turn around and really embrace their Catholic faith, and one student who was able to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist for the first time in over 6 years!

These were all great things that had happened at Liberty, but the most exciting was my Vocation to the Priesthood was confirmed! I am now getting ready to move into the seminary Mt. St. Mary's of the West (in Cincinnati, OH) on Aug. 30th for the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati!

Unfortunately, since I have just graduated from Liberty University, I do have some debt that I must pay off.

Luckily, the Laboure Society is an organization that helps people like me with this situation. They have so graciously agreed to help out with this debt! But they can't do this alone, they need our prayers and support! There are many people in this same situation and the Laboure Society is doing their best to help out!

We ask you to first and foremost pray for the Laboure Society and for the men and women who are discerning their Vocation!

Secondly if you fee led to support the Laboure Society financially, you can give a tax deductible donation here.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support!

It has been a rough week.

2009-07-23T13:09:00.003-04:00

This past week and a half has been very tough and tiring. As many of you know, I am getting ready to enter the seminary for the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati (on August 30th)! But, as expected, there has been nothing but trials and I know that it is only going to become worse.

Some of my family (that isn't Catholic) is very much against this move and is making sure I know it. There have been nothing but arguments and pushing each others buttons, over this past week. It is becoming very tiring and old.

I just ask for your prayers that I can make it through these last few weeks!

On a positive note, I am going to New Hope, KY tomorrow to visit with some great Catholic friends!

And last night I was able to spend time with 2 men who will be entering the seminary with me!

Knights of Columbus!

2009-07-13T14:05:00.000-04:00

I am now a 3rd degree Knight!!!

Update from the past month

2009-07-07T23:42:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!

What a very busy summer this has been. I have planned on sending this out awhile ago, but I have been very busy and our Internet has been down at our house.

Here is the update from Ignite Your Torch 2009: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/06/ignite-your-torch-2009.html
It was a very different conference from years past, but one of the best groups we have had yet! We better see you there next year!!!

This is a post from when the newly Ordained priests and seminarians got together at the lake to just hang out: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/06/day-at-lake.html
It was great to see all of them and meet some new guys! We are getting together again on July 18 for the same thing! And as far as I know there are at least 10 men who are going to be entering this fall. Pray for us!

Then, just a few weeks ago I went to Cedar Point for a birthday party. This is a funny post because if you know me, you know I am scared to death of heights. http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/07/cedar-point-and-lake-erie.html

There has been a lot more going on, but I just haven't had time to write about it. (Like I have spent some time hanging out with Chris (who is going to be one of my classmates this fall in the seminary), spending time with Fr. Ron and much more!

PS: I just turned 23 on July 4th!!!

Well, there will be more updates coming throughout the summer. Thanks for the prayers!

--
In Christ,
Chris Osgood

It's my birthday!!!

2009-07-04T16:45:00.001-04:00

I am now 23 years old!!!

And a little upset that for the first time in 15 years I have no fireworks to set off :(

Cedar Point and Lake Erie

2009-07-02T20:32:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I was invited to Lake Erie. My cousin's girlfriend had a birthday party at her parent's lake house. I only knew a hand full of people at the party (out of a good 20 or 30 people).

The long car ride up was a lot of fun! Well, until we broke down only 10 min. away from the lake house (thank goodness it wasn't my car). After about another 20 min. my cousin finally arrived with a car to pick us all up. We then made our way to the party and had a great evening.

On Saturday, a group of us went to Cedar Point. Now for the record, I am scared of heights and of most roller coasters. Well, I should say I was scared of them. I don't know if it was because I was tired of walking after the 4.5 mile walk from the lake house to Cedar Point, or since there were short lines so I didn't have time to think about it, or if it was just the good company I was in...

Either way, I conquered my fear of heights and of roller coasters! I road 13 major roller coasters there! Including this one:

TOP THRILL DRAGSTER!!! This is the 2nd tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world!

Well that was my weekend! And it was a lot of fun! I think Cedar Point puts the "FU" in FUN!!!

A day at the lake

2009-06-29T17:03:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday a couple of newly Ordained Priests and seminarians with the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati went up to the Indian Lake. We started the day with Mass and then went over to Fr. Kyle's (Vocation Director) parent's lake house. We had lunch and then went boating. After a few hours, 2 men decided to go skiing.

Afterwords, we all came back to the lake house and just relaxed and had a good time!

Ignite Your Torch 2009

2009-06-29T15:03:00.000-04:00

Sorry it has taken so long to write about Ignite Your Torch. I have been very busy with a lot going on.

IYT 2009 was very different this year from any other year. We held it at St. Catharine's College http://www.sccky.edu/. On top of that, the conference was a Saturday to Tuesday, instead of the normal Thursday to Sunday. Because of this, we couldn't pray at the abortion clinic, but not to worry, other great things happened!

It started off a little slow. Most of the time we didn't have air-conditioning and it was hard for people to pay attention. It wasn't until on Sunday that the mood changed! We had the Arch-bishop of Louisville come and celebrate Mass with us, and then led the Corpus Christi procession.

Later on that Sunday, I gave a very brief testimony of how this conference helped me convert and helped me discover my vocation to the priesthood. I also realized, that it was 3 years ago from Corpus Christi Eve that I was at my first "Ignite" and I met Jesus for the first time in the Eucharist! It was less than a year later that I entered the Catholic Church!

We had Adoration, Confessions, Mass, Workshops and much more this year at Ignite. It really was a powerful conference! After talking with a lot of the youth and chaperones, I felt that many of them have taken their relationship to the next level with our Lord and Savior!

For more info on Ignite Your Torch please go to www.igniteyourtorch.org you will be able to find some slide shows of past Ignites and information on future ones!

Prayer request

2009-06-22T10:07:00.000-04:00

Sorry that there hasn't been an update in 2 weeks. I will try to get one out ASAP.

Ignite was awesome! And the prayers were answered with the weather (so thank you)!

If you could pray for a close friend of mine, she is in the hospital. I have been there throughout this weekend. If you could just lift her up in your prayers, I would greatly appreciate it!

IGNITE YOUR TORCH 2009 IS ALMOST HERE!!!

2009-06-10T13:13:00.002-04:00

Starting this Saturday Ignite Your Torch 2009 will be here! It is the conference that has brought me home to the Roman Catholic Church! It is also the conference where I first started discovering my vocation to the Priesthood!

We are actually overbooked for this year, and some of the priests are actually pitching tents and camping out (this is how little room we have)!

You must come next year if you haven't signed up for this year. Check out the website here: www.igniteyourtorch.org

Please do keep the conference in your prayers. Our biggest day is going to be Sunday, most of our activities are going to be outside on Sunday and it is supposed to rain. Please pray for good weather!

1st day of work

2009-06-10T09:33:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was my first day of work at Splash Moraine. This is my 3rd year working at Splash, but it will be my 7th or 8th year working for the City of Moriane.

It was a very easy and fun day (as most days are). I am not a life guard (encase you were wondering), no, instead I am Guest Relations. It is my job to sell and collect tickets, pick up trash, rent out inner-tubes, and assist customers with whatever they need.

Today I was able to spend time talking to old friends from work, high school and just from customers who swim a lot. It was very nice to see them all again! It seemed as if we never left from last summer.

It is very interesting working there because most of them know that I am a religious person and that I want to be a priest. They all started asking questions about Christianity and Catholicism and why would I want to be a priest (some are nominal-Catholics, atheists, Protestant-Christians, and I am sure some other beliefs).

It is here at Splash Moraine where most of my summer ministry happens. I don't preach to them with words, but instead with my actions. Over the last 5 years I have had people from all over the city come to me for advice and for someone to just listen to them. This is such a great ministry that God has blessed me with, and I am forever grateful for it!

A year ago from today...

2009-06-09T23:53:00.002-04:00

It is hard to believe that it has been only a year ago from today that I was on Marcus Grodi's "The Journey Home". That was such a great experience! The only thing that would have made it better, would have been if my dad made it down with me.

For those that don't know, it was a rough day and I barely made it down there in time for the show. Trust me, if you haven't read the story, you have to read it: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2008/06/power-of-prayer.html

And if you are interested in purchasing it, you can buy it from EWTN's website for only $15! Just go here: http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/JOURNEY+HOME+JUNE+9+2008+DVD/keywords=Journey+Home+June+9+2008/page_no=1/edp_no=17054/shop.axd/ProductDetails

So I don't work today

2009-06-08T12:03:00.002-04:00

I thought I had to work today, but it turns out I don't. Is this a good or bad thing? Well, both.

The bad thing is, I am not making money and there isn't much to do. The good thing is, it is raining, so I am not losing hours at work. I think they are going to close early (after all I do work at the pool).

I think I am going to go get an oil change.

Update June 1-7, 2009

2009-06-08T00:44:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone!

This week was actually really slow. Not much has happened. I have just been sitting at home watching my niece most of the week. I have actually felt very lazy this week, but that will all change tomorrow when I start my job (I am working at the local swimming pool for the summer).

But, this weekend God has done some pretty amazing things! I went out with my neighbor's and ended up running into some friends from high school (I haven't seen them since graduation).

Well, they invited me to a bonfire on Saturday night. It was really cool! Apparently they were really interested and surprised that I converted to Catholicism. We ended up having a very long discussion about why I converted, and about why I am thinking about becoming a priest.

I got the exact opposite response from them, than what I expected. I thought they were going to try to get me "Saved" and convert me back. But instead, they were all really open to it and interested. It was great!

Then tonight (Sunday), I spent time with my friend Brandon (who introduced me to the ministry to begin with). He is one of my best friends from high school, and if it wasn't for him and his example, I wouldn't be in church, let alone going into the ministry.

Overall, the week was boring but the weekend was a lot of fun!

Next weekend I won't be able to give the update until Tuesday June 16. I am going to be at the Ignite Your Torch Youth Conference. Please pray for all who are involved!!!

Prayer requests:

Pray for someone on the update list. They lost their husband last week. And also pray for his soul (that it may rest in peace), his name is Ed.
Pray for Ignite Your Torch and that it will be very successful.

--
In Christ,
Chris Osgood

What a story!

2009-06-06T13:32:00.001-04:00

Greetings from Ohio!

2009-06-01T21:09:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!

Sorry for the late update and for not responding to emails. I just got back from the beach, and the Internet at our house is acting up a little bit. Also, sorry to the people in VA. I really wanted to come visit after the beach trip, but I wanted to see my sister's boyfriend before he left for the Marines.

South Carolina was amazing! Last Sunday, we spent some time with Fr. Longenecker: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/on-sunday-some-friends-of-mine-that-are.html

We then went to the beach (which was a lot of fun). There are no pictures yet, but trust me, there will be! PS: We did catch an alligator, but then let it go. http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/what-great-trip-so-far.html And the rest of the trip here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/rest-of-beach-trip.html

On Saturday night when I got home, I went over to my sister's apartment and hung out with both of my sisters and their friends. During that time one of their friend's Jimmy was talking to me about how he just became a Christian and he is wanting to learn more! I started talking to him about the Catholic Church and why the Church teaches what it does about their beliefs. He was very interested in what I was sharing with him, and he wants to meet again to go over some Bible verses sometime soon. Please pray for him and myself as I share the fullness of the Truth with him!

Then last night we spent time with my sister's boyfriend: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/sisters-boyfriend-left-today.html

And finally, here are some pictures from the graduation party a few weeks ago in VA: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/graduation-party-pictures.html

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Sister's boyfriend left today

2009-05-31T20:31:00.000-04:00

Tonight was our last night with my sister's boyfriend. He left for the Marines. He just got back from basic last weekend, and now has left for advance training.

It was really a sad time because I know it really bothered my sister and all of his friends. But, it was great to see him again before he left. And we will see him again in another 4 months!

Graduation party pictures

2009-05-31T13:33:00.009-04:00

Here are some pictures from the graduation party a few weeks ago in Lynchburg, VA.

The rest of the beach trip!!!

2009-05-29T18:59:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday, we went back to the beach and had a blast! The only scary thing was Jon's girlfriend stepped on some big fish or something, Austin's girlfriend had a fish or something hit her leg, and then it swam right through my legs. After that happened, we all decided to go on the beach and pass the football and Frisbee.

Then on Thursday, we went to Charleston. We ate at an amazing sea food restaurant and then went around town. After that, we actually got in a car accident and had to wait for someone to pick us up. The good thing is that no one was hurt.

Now we are back in Greenville, SC and I will be heading home to Dayton, OH tomorrow.

Overall, this trip was a lot of fun, but we did to many dumb things. I will put pictures up as soon as I get them from my friend Jon!

Fr. Longenecker

2009-05-27T17:54:00.002-04:00

On Sunday, some friends of mine (that are at the beach with me), and myself visited with Fr. Longenecker!

You can read more here on his blog: http://gkupsidedown.blogspot.com/2009/05/blogger-visit.html

What a great trip so far!!!

2009-05-27T17:49:00.001-04:00

We arrived here at the beach on Monday. On Monday night we hung out and went to the beach for a midnight swim. We actually got pulled over by the cops (because we are not aloud swimming at midnight).

On Tuesday, we went back to the beach and had a great time! We also found a gator in our back yard (in the pond). We fed it (which we weren't supposed to), and now we have named it Sam. We have a few pictures of him (which I will post later).

It is such a great time down here!!!

PRAYER REQUEST!!!

2009-05-25T10:03:00.001-04:00

I received this email (prayer request) from a friend. Please pray!

Hi Prayer Warrior friends,

If anyone has it in their hearts to say some extra prayers for a stranger, a
friend of mine's niece in New Orleans needs a huge miracle or a great deal
of grace to carry an enormous cross. She has triplets who are about a year
old. She found out she is pregnant with another child. Last night the
triplets were crying and her husband went to get them. He was carrying all
three, tripped down some steps and fell. He did so in a way to save the
babies from injury but injured his leg in a severe way. He was taken to a
hospital where he was operated on and some complications occurred with his
heart. He is now on life support and not expected to live for more than a
short time

He needs some kind of miracle. He is a chef in New Orleans and not of
great means. I know Our Lord with look mercifully upon any prayers you can offer.
Thanks and blessings to you all!

THE BEACH!!!

2009-05-25T10:02:00.002-04:00

We are now leaving for the beach!!!

Just thought I would rub it in a little :)

Update from SC

2009-05-24T22:23:00.000-04:00

Greetings from Greenville, SC!!!

What a good week it has been!

I spent the week with my family (most especially my niece).

On Tuesday I met with Fr. Kyle and we were talking about the seminary and what is going to happen this fall.

I had to work on Wed. (not many people get paid to go swimming. I was cleaning the pool).

On Thursday I spoke at Theology on Tap in Dayton, and it was very interesting. I thought I was going to get punched, but luckily I didn't: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/theology-on-tap_23.html

Also on Thursday, I went down to the seminary and had lunch with some of the men down there. I also spoke with Fr. Smith (the rector) about this fall. It went very well!

Then on Friday, I started heading down to Greenville, SC to stay with my friend for the weekend (it is the meeting point for all of us). The cool thing about the drive down, was that my sister and her friends where driving home from SC (her boyfriend graduated from basic), and we saw each other on the highway in NC, so we waved to each other. Tomorrow, we are all going to Charleston, SC for the beach! It is our last time together before most of us split off into different directions.

Since I have been down here, we have just hung out, gone swimming, fishing and eat (man do they love cooking and eating down in the south)!!!

Today, I went to St. Mary's Catholic Church for Mass. It was one of the most beautiful Masses I have gone to! After Mass, we came back to Jon's and watched a movie, then we went over and visited with Fr. Longenecker. (There will be pictures next week, when I have my laptop to put them on).

If you didn't see the pictures from graduation, you can see them here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/pictures-from-graduation.html

I won't be able to respond to your emails until next weekend. But I will be praying for you, and please pray for me!

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Theology on Tap

2009-05-23T21:15:00.002-04:00

Well, Theology on Tap on Thursday went very well. There were a good number of people that showed up and I think most of them really enjoyed my talk.

I will say that the high-light of the talk was not anything I did or said, instead it was some angry guy that tried to disrupt everything. He came up front and asked if he could say something, and then went in the back and was yelling. He finally was kicked out. So please pray for him!

As soon as I figure out how to add talks on the blog, I will add it for you to listen to (if you so wish).

Well, I have to go. I am in South Carolina for the week, so there will be very little blogging (but that's not really different from normal).

Theology on Tap

2009-05-20T07:36:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! If anyone is going to be in Dayton, OH on Thursday May 21 at 7 PM, you should come to Theology on Tap!

I am going to be speaking on how to grow intimate with our Lord (through the Sacraments).

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2009
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Oregon Express
Street: 336 E Fifth Street
City/Town: Dayton, OH

This will also be recorded and if someone can teach me how to put them up on the blog, then I will!!!

Pictures from Graduation

2009-05-19T01:49:00.010-04:00

Here are some pictures from graduation at Liberty University on Saturday May 9 at 10 AM.

Mom, Sister, Me and Dad (my other sister couldn't make it):

Cousins and me:

Group of friends:

Roommate and I from my Sophomore year:

Roommate and I from my Senior year:

Ben Stein:

Co-founder of Liberty (Dr. Elmer Towns):

Pastor of TRBC (Jonathan Falwell):

UPDATE!!!

2009-05-18T22:39:00.000-04:00

Greetings from OHIO!

Hey everyone! It has been a very busy week. I have traveled from VA to KY to OH.

On Monday I left Lynchburg and headed toward Louisville, KY for a fundraiser for Ignite Your Torch: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/ignite-your-torch-auction.html

Tuesday was a very interesting day. It was some evangelism with a fallen away Catholic. Just some word of advice, if you tell me that you are a Catholic and not going to Mass, don't be a car salesman when I'm around: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/tuesday-in-ky.html

On Wed. I was able to spend some time with good friends from Louisville. We had a lot of fun and went out to eat and then put-put.

Thursday I went to St. Catherine's (where IYT is going to be). Then I spent more time with friends at the community.

Throughout the week, I watched a number of different saint movies with my great aunt (all where very good)!

Friday I spent time with my family (mostly my niece).

Then on Saturday I spent my day at the Coming Home Network Conference on the Catholic Paul. It was very good! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/05/catholic-paul.html

Now I am planning a trip to Charleston, SC with some friends!

Prayer Request:

I am speaking this Thursday at 7pm at Theology on Tap in Dayton, OH.
For safe travels for the trip to SC.
For some friends that I have spent time with that really need God and help in their life!

-- In Christ,Chris Osgood

The Catholic Paul?

2009-05-17T11:48:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was a long day for me. I got up around 6am and went up to Columbus for the Coming Home Network Conference "The Catholic Paul?"

It was very action pact and really good. They had Scott Hahn, Jeff Cavins, Marcus Grodi and Fr. Mitch Pacwa to name a few.

I think the highlight of the entire conference was Fr. Mitch's homily during Mass. It was amazing! He was talking about how many converts from Islam are coming into the Catholic Church! There are roughly 16,000 each day (mostly from Africa). The Church truly is alive!

Throughout the rest of the day, I spent some time with some good friends that I met at the last CHN Conference in Oct. Overall it was a great conference and a great day!

When I came home on Sat. night, I spent some time with old friends (from high school) and my sister (who turned 19).

Tuesday in KY

2009-05-13T10:57:00.002-04:00

My great aunt and I went to Bardstown, KY yesterday. And while she was doing some things, I had some free time. And well, with all the traveling I do, I figured I need a new car. So I went to the used car lot to look around.

While I was there, I met the car salesman, and found out that he is a fallen away Catholic. So he started talking about the different cars, and I started talking about the Catholic Church.

I wasn't really interested in any of the cars he showed me, but he asked me if I wanted to test drive one (bad mistake on his part). I said that I would be very interested, and so we went for a drive.

While we were in the car, he tried to explain how nice the car was, and I tried to explain how nice the Catholic Church is. He finally asked why I love the Church so much and I told him because I am a convert!

After some time went by, he told me that he is engaged and is living with his fiancee. I congratulated him on his engagement and recommended him to a couple of very good priests I know of in this diocese. I knew that they would bring him back!

After the long drive, I ended up thanking him and told him that I was going to look at some other cars before I buy one. He was happy and thanked me for the talk.

Ignite Your Torch Auction

2009-05-12T16:53:00.001-04:00

After my long car ride on Monday (of 10 hours), I finally arrived in Louisville, KY.

I was just in time for the Ignite Your Torch Auction Fundraiser that they have every year. It was a lot of fun to see old friends and meet new ones.

The Auction was a BIG success and raised a couple thousand dollars for the conference! However, there is still need for more funding to cover other costs. (If you would like to help donate money for this cause please let me know).

This conference means so much to me! After all, if it wasn't for the IYT Youth Conference, I would not be Catholic today, nor would I have been able to do or meet anything/anyone I know today.

www.igniteyourtorch.org

Last update from Liberty!

2009-05-12T11:50:00.000-04:00

Greetings from Kentucky!!!

I am sorry for the late update, and I do apologize that this will be a longer update with no links to the blog. I have been very busy this week!

Most of last week was spent with friends, studying and packing. On Wednesday I had lunch with one of my professors (I had to read an anti-Catholic book for extra credit). Well, during the lunch, we didn't talk to much about the book, instead he was asking questions about Catholicism and what would it take for me to leave the Catholic Church. It was a long but interesting conversation and I think I made it clear that I will not leave the Church.

On Thursday I went to the prison for a volunteer lunch they had. We didn't get to see any of the prisoners, but it was still fun. After that, I went to the retreat center and helped Deacon out with some things. Then my family came into town! So we met up and spent some time together.

Friday, I realized that I forgot to do some quizzes for one of my classes, so I did them real fast and then went to the party! There was a really good turn out for the party (and I hope that all of you who came had a lot of fun)! It was tough saying good-bye to people, but I know I will be back to visit!

Then on Saturday I GRADUATED!!! The graduation was a lot of fun (but way to long, I mean, they made me skip lunch...). A funny thing happened when they gave me my piece of paper (not diploma). Dr. Towns (co-founder of Liberty) was handing out the pieces of paper and asked everyone, "What are you going to do now?" When he asked me, I told him, "I am thinking about becoming a Catholic priest." He busted out laughing (he had no idea I was really Catholic).

Then when I got off the stage, there were 4 anti-Catholic professors that I had, that jumped right up and came over to me and said, "Congratulations! We are so glad you are graduating!" I thought that was hilarious. Only 1 professor that congratulated me was really happy that I made it through Liberty, the rest were happy to get rid of me.

Well, that is about all I can remember from last week. I do have a lot of pictures, so I will put them up on my blog later on this week and send them out in the next update.

--
In Christ,
Chris Osgood

What a long week thus far!

2009-05-06T18:42:00.004-04:00

So it is only Wednesday but I am so tired.

I have an average of about 4 hours sleep for each night since last Friday (some because of being with friends, others from studying).

I haven't had time to eat nor shower in the last 2 days (I know its gross), but that's what you get when you are busy studying.

I have just finished packing and cleaning my room. It had to do be done by 7 tonight for inspection. I am now getting ready to take a quick shower before inspection (because I really smell).

Then I go to the Knights of Columbus meeting tonight, and then over to my friend's house to finish baking the cakes we started on last night (for the grad party).

I am so tired though. But, the good news is, I'M DONE WITH FINALS!!!

PS: I was told today by one of my professors not to worry about doing a homework assignment I was working on because I passed the course...lol.

What to do before a final?

2009-05-05T01:23:00.003-04:00

Well, it is the night before my one of my finals. Now I know, your asking yourself, "Why is he typing this when he could be studying or sleeping?"

Well, I am sick of studying and I am really tired, but I need to study more. So how do I get pumped up to study more? Being done for the year? No more homework? Graduation? Or something else...

Yes, the something else!!! All the other reasons are good, but this is the best! I have watched this before every test and it gets me PUMPED UP BABY!!!

If you watch it before a big event, make sure there are other people with you and start yelling at you (it works better, cause they are cheering for YOU)!!!

1 week left!!!

2009-05-04T00:16:00.000-04:00

Greetings with the love of Christ!

I hope this letter finds you all very well. It is hard to imagine what a change I have gone through while attending Liberty University. I am now done with classes and have 2 finals coming up!

This has been a very busy week and this upcoming week will be just as busy. Not with the school work, but with saying the good-byes. I have been trying to spend as much time as possible with my friends here before we move on to bigger and better things.

On Monday I went down to Elon, NC for an interview and also to visit a good friend. We went out to dinner and had a great time catching up (I wish we would have been able to spend more time together this year, but it has been busy for the both of us).

On Tuesday they made me take down the swimming pool in the dorm room :-(. Also on Tuesday Josh spoke to the Catholic class at Liberty and did a great job! The students and the professor really enjoyed it! Thank you so much for the prayers!

Wednesday I received an email from my academic advisor saying that I couldn't graduate because my old advisor didn't transfer my govt. class right. Well, after spending 3 hours walking all over campus 3 times and talking to 6 people, we finally got it straightened out and I can graduate!

Thursday night a group of us snuck out of the dorms at 3 am and went to IHOP (it has been a tradition of mine every semester). It is actually funny because every time I do this (always during finals week) there are a ton of Liberty students there.

Then Saturday night I went the prison for the last time. It was really sad (most guys are happy to get out of prison, I on the other hand was sad to leave). It was a good service as always, but they moved us into a different room and we couldn't hear that good. Hopefully, next week they get the normal room.

Besides all of that going on, my entire week was spending time with friends. Sorry for the no posting on the blog last week. There prob. wont be any posts this week either, because there is no free time.

Remember the party is this Friday from 5-8 PM at St. Thomas More for anyone who wants to come: http://www.stmva.com/

Prayer Requests:

For Liberty University, there was a professor that died this week and some other professors have gotten in trouble.
For the Catholics at Liberty.
For friends who are looking for jobs.
For finals.
PRAISE: I AM GRADUATING!!!

-- In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Sorry

2009-05-01T12:35:00.001-04:00

Sorry for not blogging much this week. I am just enjoying my last week with friends here at Liberty before they leave for the summer!

Almost done with school!!!

2009-04-26T23:31:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone!

I only have one more day left of classes! This Tuesday is my last day of classes at Liberty, and it is a bitter sweet moment. I am so glad to be done, but I can't lie, I am going to miss defending the faith and the Catholic group here at Liberty.

On Monday I got back from the airport from Texas and it wasn't as an event full trip to Texas. But, the highlight of the day was seeing a long time friend in Houston. Then I saw the president of Liberty's seminary in Atlanta (lets just say it was a very interesting conversation). More on the trip back to VA here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/back-in-lynchburg.html

On Tuesday I went to speak at Theology on Tap in Farmville for a college out there. Not many people showed up, so we all just sat around and shared about our faith and how we got where we were today.

Thursday I went to VA Tech and Radford to visit some friends from Encounter with Christ! I also took Caitlin out to dinner for her birthday, but she took me out for my graduation (so I paid for her, and she paid for me).

There was another Theology on Tap on Friday, this one was a lot of fun! More here: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/theology-on-tap.html

Saturday I went to the prison for prison ministry. The one thing I got out of it is that the prisoners very much appreciate people coming out to visit them for the ministry. One man said that he always comes in down, but leaves very happy, and that we give them hope! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/prison-ministry-6.html

Then on Saturday night, my roommates and I had some fun!!! (I might get kicked out of LU for this) http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/end-of-year-pool-party.html

And now we come to a close of this week on Sunday. Today I was able to see 2 friends (from a near by college) get confirmed! One was baptized and both were confirmed! Then we had a little cookout at Joann's house for the Catholic group at Liberty. This was the 3rd year they did this and it grows every year!

PRAYER REQUESTS:

I cannot speak to the Roman Catholic class on Tuesday, but good news, Josh Johnson is! Please pray for him as he prepares to speak to this (anti-Catholic class). He will speak at 12:45 on Tuesday, so say a Rosary for him!
For the prisoners and that they stay true to their faith and find hope!
Ignite Your Torch Youth Conference!!! YOU BETTER SIGN UP YOUR YOUTH!!!! www.igniteyourtorch.org
The rest of the school year.

And don't forget the graduation party is Friday May 8, 2009 from 5-8 PM at St. Thomas More. All are welcome! http://www.stmva.com/

In Christ,
Chris Osgood

End of the year pool party?

2009-04-26T09:31:00.004-04:00

Ok, so it has been really hot here over the past few days and it is going to stay hot for the rest of this week. So what do you do when it is hot? You go to the pool, right?

Well, what happens if the pool is packed and there is no room? What do you do then?

That's right! You make the pool come to you!

So I leave you with this, "Why yes, there is a swimming pool in my dorm room!"

Prison Ministry #6

2009-04-26T01:01:00.002-04:00

Tonight was the sixth time I have gone to the prison for prison ministry. It is sad to think that next Saturday is going to be my last time at the prison.

Deacon Cartwright couldn't make it tonight so the prisoners led the service. The message was great and the one thing that kept sticking out to me was that I can go to confession anytime I want. But these prisoners can't, they can only go when the priest comes and allows them to go to confession. We are so blessed out here, but many times we take it all for granted.

Before the service started however, I was talking to one of the men. And he was telling me how glad the prisoners are when people from the outside come. He said that they are always depressed or upset when they come, but by the time they leave they are happy and upbeat. He said that this is what they need to survive throughout the week.

Man these guys have faith! Please pray for them!

Theology on Tap

2009-04-25T12:33:00.002-04:00

Over this past week I have had the honor of speaking at 2 Theology on Taps. One was at Hampden-Sydney (college in Farmville, VA), the other ToT was in Danville, VA last night.

The first one at H-S was a lot of fun. Instead of giving my testimony, we just sat around and shared life stories and talked about our faith. It was a very small turnout, but was very enjoyable!

The one in Danville was the biggest turnout yet for their ToT's. They had 36 people show up (ages ranged from 0-90)! Yes, Josh's twins where there (0 years old) and then there was a man there that was 90 years old.

We did record it, and as soon as I have time and figure out how to post it up on the blog, then everyone can listen to it. Otherwise you can email me your address at cosgood09@gmail.com and I can send you a copy.

Man do I love traveling!

2009-04-23T14:15:00.001-04:00

I am on my way to VA Tech to visit some friends from Encounter With Christ, then we are going to Radford to visit some others from EWC!

I think I am going to sign out tonight cause idk if I will be back before curfew!

Upcoming Speaking Events

2009-04-20T23:37:00.005-04:00

Now that I am back from Texas, I have a busy week a head of me.

On Tuesday April 21, 2009, I will be speaking in Farmville, VA at Hapmden-Sydney for their Theology on Tap at 5:30 pm. I will be giving my testimony.

On Friday April 24, 2009, I will be speaking in Danville, VA at Bogies Burgers for their Theology on Tap at 7:00 pm. I will be talking about how I have grown closer to Christ in the Catholic Church.

Then on Tuesday April 28, 2009, I will be speaking to the Roman Catholicism class here at Liberty University at 2:00 pm. I will be giving a talk on the benefits of being Catholic and why I converted. (This class is at Liberty, so we know that it isn't pro-Catholic).

Please pray for me!

Back in Lynchburg!

2009-04-20T17:59:00.003-04:00

Well, today was and still is a very long day.

I got to the airport in Houston a little late and missed my first flight. So by the time I got to Houston, I only had about an hour with a friend (Ali) that I haven't seen in a long time.

We went to breakfast and spent some time catching up. It was a great time seeing her and I already miss her.

On the plane ride to Atlanta I ended up sitting next to a girl that just lost her dad. She was on the way to the funeral. Please pray for her dad's soul.

At the airport in Atlanta I saw the president of our seminary at LU. We had a very interesting convo about the Catholics at Liberty. We'll just leave it at that :)

Then on the ride back to Lynchburg I just sat next to myself and got some sleep. My friends Jon and Jess ended up picking me up from the airport and then we went out to eat.

Overall, it was a long day, and I wish I was still in Houston spending time with Ali!

Update from April 13-19, 2009

2009-04-19T22:38:00.001-04:00

Greetings from the great state of Texas!

I know I said that this update would come late, but I didn't know that I would have Internet here.

What a great week/weekend!

On Sunday night (Easter) I went to my 2nd cousins' house and spent some time with them. I haven't been to their house in probably a year (even though they live 20 min. from me). It was really a great time!

Monday I did some homework and then went down to Josh and Katie's in Danville. Katie's family was there and it was really nice meeting them, her mom is a GREAT cook! After that, I came back to Liberty and finished my homework.

The most important day in my college career thus far was on Tuesday. http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/theres-not-much-time-left.html After class, I went to Longwood University to visit some friends (it is on the blog too).

Then on Wednesday, I just did a little bit of homework, then went over to my friend's house and spent about 4 hours in his hot tub (no joke, I didn't feel good after I got out). But it was fun!

And now we come to the weekend. I went to my classes on Thursday and then right after class, I flew out to Austin. I am still here until tomorrow morning. I don't think I have ever had so much fun at an airport before (http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/im-in-texas.html). The only bad thing about the airport was my batteries didn't work for my camera so I didn't get a picture with the University of Tennessee's softball team (they had some pretty girls).

Most of the trip is written on this post (although there is a little one before it): http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/texas.html. There are pictures on the blog of the Church.

Prayer requests:

Theo (who is in charge of Ignite Your Torch) she is sick.
Brian's grandmother who passed away this week.
Terri who is having surgery.
Ignite Your Torch Youth Conference.
And for a safe trip back to Lynchburg.

--
In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Texas

2009-04-19T22:15:00.000-04:00

Well, my trip is coming to a close, but it has been very relaxing and fun!

I have been here since Thursday night and I leave tomorrow (Monday) at 5:45 AM.

I feel like I have been on a retreat the entire weekend. I have spent some time in Adoration (they have it 24/7)! Other than that, I have done some homework, watched TV, ate food (I hope Fr. John doesn't get mad), then just hung out in the rectory.

I also went down to Austin with Fr. John to look at where he might live next school year. So we checked out the discernment house. There I got to meet one priest and three out of the fifty seminarians they have here! All of the people I have met over this weekend are very Holy people and I just love it here!

The place here is beautiful! Just look at the pictures:

Expelled?

2009-04-19T20:30:00.004-04:00

Well, I just got done watching the movie "Expelled" and it was very interesting. I really enjoyed watching it.

Ben Stein starts off the movie almost like he is against Intelligent Design, but then ends it with a remarkable interview with Richard Dawkins.

All I can say is that after watching all the different interviews he does with evolutionists and intelligent designests, the evolutionists are the ones who look dumb.

Very good movie, and I would have to say the same thing Ben Stein says about it: "I love this film!"

I can't wait to hear Ben Stein speak at Liberty's graduation!!!

An amazing trip thus far!

2009-04-17T22:45:00.000-04:00

So I am really hating myself for my dead batteries. I just found a charger for them, so hopefully I will start taking pictures. I already missed some great pictures at the airport, and even today of the University of Texas!

If I get it working, I will take some of the church I am staying at. It is beautiful! 48 acres and they have a school, retirement center for priests and EVERYTHING!!!

ITS GREAT!!!

I'm in Texas!!!

2009-04-16T12:03:00.001-04:00

So today was an absolute great day! I went to my 2 classes, then had lunch with my roommates (from years past), then went to the airport.

I flew out of Lynchburg around 2:30 and sat next to this man named Gary. We ended up spending the next 4 hours with each other. His next flight left Charlotte at 6:10 and mine left at 6:20.

So what do you do when you have 3 hours to spare in an airport? You go get food and drinks! We ended up finding out that he is really into aviation (and I am too) so we talked about that most of the time. We also talked about church and he shared some of his old college stories.

After we parted ways, we gave each other our contact info, and then got on our next flights.

Well, the next flight I was on, was from Charlotte to Austin. On this flight I sat next to a really nice older lady who was flying from NJ to Austin for her sister's funeral (please pray for Mary's soul, that it may rest in peace). I could tell she was really upset, so I tried cheering her up with my dumb jokes (it worked!).

After we landed, I met her son and daughter-in-law and they were very grateful for me trying to cheer up their mother.

After all of that, I am now here in Georgetown, TX and love it! I am staying at the rectory at St. Helen's and man is it nice!

Well, I g2g and hit the sack. Night!!!

PS: I almost got a picture of the women's softball team of University of Tennessee, but my camera died :(

Busy week ahead

2009-04-16T08:55:00.000-04:00

After my classes today, I am flying out to Austin, TX (until Monday).

On Monday I will be back at Liberty and go to my classes on Tuesday. However, right after my classes on Tuesday, I am going to Farmville, VA to speak at a Theology on Tap for Longwood and Hampden-Sydney (I will stay the night there afterwords).

Wednesday I will probably head back to school, do my homework for Thursday, then go to classes on Thursday.

Then I will end up leaving on Friday to go down to Danville, VA to speak at a Theology on Tap.

It is going to be a busy week, but I am going to enjoy it! Only 3 weeks left! (I think somewhere in there, I may end up going to VA Beach).

There's not much time left

2009-04-15T13:38:00.002-04:00

I have so much to do and so little time to do it all.

Yesterday was probably the most important day in my college career thus far. It was the day that graduation was on the line. But good news, I got through it all!!!

I had 2 papers due yesterday (life of Christ paper worth 40%, and NT Backgrounds worth 20%), then I had a test in my computer class (which I am really struggling in), but I got a high enough score on the test to stay a live in the class.

After class yesterday I went to Longwood University to visit some friends from Encounter with Christ. It was great to see them! In fact, I will be going out there next Tuesday to do a Theology on Tap with their Catholic group on campus!

Man, this week is busy, and next week may even be more hectic...

Update from Holy Week.

2009-04-13T00:20:00.004-04:00

HE IS RISEN!!!

I hope everyone had a great Easter. This week has been very busy for me, and if I can get through this upcoming week, then we are in good shape for graduation.

On Monday, we found out who our graduation speaker is. It is Ben Stein: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/ben-stein-to-speak-at-may-commencement.html

On Wednesday Liberty canceled classes (but it wasn't a free day off). We had to do testing all day: http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/is-liberty-doing-ok.html

My aunt and uncle picked me up on Thursday to drive me back home for Easter. It was very nice to see them and spend some time with them. We listened to a really good story on the way home (book on tape, now that's how you read books!) "Bud not Buddy" was the name of it. I would recommend it! When I got home, I went to Holy Thursday Mass and then went and spent some time with my cousin at the University of Dayton.

Friday, I went to Mass with my grandparents and aunt and uncle. Then I went to my other uncle's house and spent some time with my cousins (also with one of their girl friends). Then my one cousin and I went to UD for a small birthday party for one of his friends.

The big day was Saturday! I started out in the morning by being the Easter Bunny for the City of Moraine! They then let me keep the costume for our cookout at my grandparents. It was a nice cookout and it was great seeing my cousin and his wife there! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/who-was-easter-bunny.html

After the cookout, I then went to the Easter Vigil, and all I can say is, AMAZING!!! http://christopherosgood.blogspot.com/2009/04/easter-vigil-2009.html

Overall the weekend was very nice and relaxing! We left to come back to VA around 8:30 on Easter, and it worked out because I was able to have dinner with my other cousins down here. It was a great break!

PRAYER REQUESTS:

Pray for me this upcoming week. There is a lot of work that I need to do and it will be a rough week.

Also, the update will be late on Monday night next week instead of Sunday. I am going to Austin, TX for the weekend.

In Christ,
Chris Osgood

Who was the Easter Bunny?

2009-04-12T23:47:00.003-04:00

What did you do for Easter weekend?

I was the Easter Bunny for my home town back in Ohio!

After the Easter Egg Hunt, they let me borrow the costume for our family cookout later on that day.

EASTER!!!

2009-04-12T18:08:00.002-04:00

He is risen!!!

On this greatest day of the year, all fasting and somber thoughts are banished. As St. John Chrysostom announces in this famous Easter sermon, all are invited to the feast: "Let all then enter the joy of Our Lord! Both the first and the last, and those who come after, enjoy your reward!Rich and poor, dance with one another, sober and slothful, celebrate the day. Those who have kept the fast and those who have not, rejoice today, for the table is richly spread.Fare royally upon it-the calf is a fatted one.Let no one go away hungry. All of you, enjoy the banquet of faith!All enjoy the riches of His goodness.Let no one cry over his poverty, for the universal Kingdom has appeared!Let no one mourn that he has fallen again and again, for forgiveness has risen from the grave.Let none fear death, for the death of our Savior has set us free.He has destroyed it by enduring it.He spoiled the power of hell when he descended thereto.Isaiah foretold this when he cried, 'Death has been frustrated in meeting him below!'It is frustrated, for it is destroyed.It is frustrated, for it is annihilated.It is frustrated, for now it is made captive.For it grabbed a body and discovered God.It took earth and behold! It encountered Heaven.It took what was visible, and was overcome by what was invisible.O Death, where is your sting?O Death, where is your victory?Christ is risen, and the demons are cast down.Christ is risen, and life is set free.Christ is risen, and the tomb is emptied of the dead.For Christ, having risen from the dead, is become the first-fruits for those who sleep.to Him be glory and power forever and ever!

Amen. Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!"

Back at school!

2009-04-12T18:06:00.002-04:00

I am now back at Liberty and heading over to my cousin's house for some Easter dinner!!!

Easter Vigil 2009!

2009-04-11T23:20:00.002-04:00

All I can say is AWESOME!!!

4 Baptisms
10 Confirmations!

Over 1,100 people have been received into full communion tonight just within the Arch-diocese of Cincinnati alone!!!

Along with them, there were many of my friends who were either baptised or confirmed today!

Some from Encounter with Christ, some from Liberty University, and two children of close friends of mine!!!

PRAISE GOD FOR ANOTHER PENTECOST!!!

HE IS RISEN!!!

HOLY SATURDAY 09

2009-04-11T13:37:00.001-04:00