Hello

Back in October last year, Pope Leo XIV denounced the idea of a "holy war" and rejected the notions of leaders who invoke God or religion to justify violence and wars. He has repeatedly called for ceasefires and a laying down of arms which opens the door for constructive dialogue. See more from his speech from Vatican News  https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-10/pope-leo-xiv-peace-meeting-rome-colosseum-sant-egidio.html#:~:text=The%20speech%20was%20given%20in%20the%20presence,leaders%20to%20shoulder%20their%20responsibility%20for%20peace** I'm sharing this in the midst of what looks to me like a dangerous and chaotic meltdown of President Trump with his latest highly offensive and charged posts. Tucker Carlson attempts to explain this latest madness:  https://youtu.be/x4S0KC2kZZE?si=XzoOFzqhZQz5CWch .  I wish to reemphasize Pope Leo's call for laying down arms and seeking out dialogue to end wars and promote peace among nations. For those familiar with it, I ...

I wanted to share some beautiful classical music from Halidon Music on YouTube. Music is something universal to appreciate. For me, it’s a good reminder to take time to enjoy life and reflect on our blessings. To all who celebrate, I wish a Happy and Blessed Easter. May the peace and promise Jesus brings, remain with you throughout life.  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=RDiSpuQwCJT6I&playnext=1&si=_yGaUgcSwAFeF6n3

  I hope you’re having a beautiful start to April and enjoying the change of season as we head into warmer days, lighter layers, and all things spring.   I wanted to share a few upcoming pop-up events where you can shop Always Amalfi in person this month:   ✨ April Pop-Up Events I’ll be announcing and sharing event details regularly on Instagram, so be sure to follow along for the latest dates, times, and locations. Pop-ups are the best way to experience the collection in person, discover new pieces, and shop exclusive finds that may not always make it online.   In the meantime, I’ve been adding new arrivals to the shop over the past few weeks, and I’d love for you to take a look if you haven’t had a chance yet 🤍 Our next La Dolce Vita drop also launches next Wednesday 🍋—bringing even more new pieces to explore as we head deeper into spring.   Below, you’ll find a few of the newest pieces currently available—perfect for spring styling, gifting, and bringing a ...

Having read this letter and watched President Trump’s address, I wanted to share both. Though their viewpoints greatly differ, I think it’s important to understand the perspectives shaping each side’s approach. I do not endorse either document’s message or policy conclusions. I oppose this war, and I remain disappointed that political leaders who promised “no wars” now face a reality of expanding conflict. At the same time, I believe it’s also important to recognize how each country’s messaging—whether political rhetoric or public narratives—can influence fear, anger, and escalation. We may be at a crossroads marked by confusion and violence, and I believe that thorough understanding and dialogue are part of the path toward peace. I hope that reasonable, practical steps toward de-escalation are pursued by leaders and by the public in both countries. Open Letter from Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian  I n the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful To the people of the United St...

 Bishop Barron highlights the Gospel account of Judas in his regret for betraying Jesus. He argues that possibly even sinners such as Judas could be saved. While not excusing sins or their effects; he expounds on God’s mercy as reaching down into the very depths of our darkness and despair.  https://youtu.be/lg95po4yAzs?si=JFjaiVtEZjhSne_c For more inspiring content check out Bishop Barron’s YouTube channel now with over 3 million subscribers and growing:  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=6wm2NHsWUnweQopr

For April's poetry group, the topic was to create something with repetition like a repeated line ex in the Raven "Nevermore". Here is what I came up with.  And The Heart Beats On (Bu Bum, Bu Bum) Billions of people all over the Earth. Each day over 300 thousand new births! Each person seeking, learning to become. And the heart beats on (Bu Bum, Bu Bum)   New challenges arise each day of the year. Bad weather, bad news, things fill us with fear. Yet still we try hard to avoid the doldrums. And the heart beats on (Bu Bum, Bu Bum)   Perhaps it’s the hardships that give life it’s flair. Now I’m not saying that all things are fair. Though many feel hopeless; there’s much hope for some. And the heart beats on (Bu Bum, Bu Bum) pic by: Joshua Chehov from Unsplash. 

 The Litany of Humility is a prayer away from ourselves and directed to others. It calls to mind the words of Jesus who emphasized the meek and lowly of the world over the prideful and exalted. During Lent and throughout the year it’s good to remember this in our competitive and status symbol oriented world.  https://youtu.be/tLpr-5iWSuY?si=hHSEf1U8NO8BkMf7

 Bishop explains the significance behind the events of the Gospel where Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. His weeping exemplifies the real human connection and emotion God feels with us.  https://youtu.be/KkE5zUTJVZs?si=dY9xjG7jw0Yqdvtj

 Former National Counterterrorism Center Director , Joe Kent speaks on his points made in his resignation letter to President Trump. He details from his many past deployments in the Middle East and his own present available intelligence and experiences how and why this happened and why the official narrative doesn’t add up. The right questions which were asked here were unfortunately not asked in the same way by those responsible for creating and perpetuating these unfortunate present events. As we now start to hear more about “winding down” our involvement; I feel these questions will likely remain, along with others like what comes next for Iran, the region and potential for dialogue and diplomacy.  https://youtu.be/1cbw1utqzHg?si=jcWe2VZli0k5rryI

 Bishop Barron explains the significance of today’s gospel of “The Woman at the Well” and how it should serve as a model of conversion and evangelization for us.  https://youtu.be/8b-qvrZEYw4?si=wdFMMCWQEcahsVqn For more inspiring videos from Bishop Barron check out his YouTube channel at  https://youtube.com/@bishopbarron?si=g5lAq1AcWTy6xfwi

 The latest poem suggestion for our poetry group was to write a limerick. It has a definite rhythm and rhyme (structure) and usually funny. 5 lines with a specific number or syllables in each line ex: 9, 9, 5, 5, 9. Here's what I just came up with so far:  I was running the race at good speed. I could clearly see who was the lead.  Then, unlike before My legs got so sore. Now it's rest and pain meds that I need  Photo: Nikola at Unsplash  A man sitting on a ledge tying his shoes photo – Free Aesthetic Image on Unsplash Here's another one about one mayor who can never be opposed.  Our mayor was running our great town. He tried to shut his opponents down. But we became wise, And saw through his lies. Our mayor is really a great clown. Photo from Marloes Hilckmann Unsplash:  White red and black face painted on wall photo – Free Art Image on Unsplash   

 Fr. Chris does a deep dive into the “three pillars” of lent which are Prayer, Fasting and Alms Giving or acts of charity/service. He explains the biblical and historical context around these and how they can help us today to replace lower desires with higher fulfillment that glorifies God.  https://www.youtube.com/live/9gafZk1BR7U?si=ulJH3LT_65X0d3dc To learn more about the Marians check out their YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@divinemercy_official?si=rucN59nernHXyr1y   Or visit their website at  https://www.thedivinemercy.org/

What does it actually mean to live your Catholic faith today? In this special Lenten episode of Catholic Conversations, Fr. Peter welcomes longtime parishioner and Knights of Columbus Grand Knight Gene Fennell for an honest and inspiring discussion about faith, forgiveness, and becoming better disciples. Gene shares: -How he first took ownership of his faith -The power of reconciliation in his relationship with his father -The witness of Det. Steven McDonald and radical forgiveness -Why Scripture is a “playbook” for life -Practical tools for prayer (Hallow App, Divine Office, daily reflections) As we begin our parish Lenten series, I Thirst: 40 Days with Mother Teresa, the conversation turns to Jesus’ words from the Cross — “I Thirst” — and what it means to stop filling our lives with substitutes and allow Christ to satisfy our deepest hunger. Lent isn’t meant to be gloomy. It’s a grace-filled “do over.” If you’re looking for encouragement, practical faith wisdom, and a reminder that h...

My faith is one of the foundations of my life. It has kept me out of trouble during the highs and kept me positive during the lows of life. My lava rock @holywaterbracelet is a reminder of the faith I try to live out daily. The cross carries a small amount of holy water from Lourdes. See below for a discount link to get one for yourself or a family or friend. #Faith #holywaterbracelet https://www.holywaterbracelet.com/?snowball=JOSEPH31417&utm_source=snowball&utm_medium=default-program&utm_campaign=JOSEPH31417

 Cyclone Harry has devastated many areas in Southern Italy/Sicily, causing an estimated over 1 Billion Euros in damage. The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is leading fundraising efforts to help damage repair and relief efforts.  Your contribution will be directed to Italy's Protezione Civile, the national agency coordinating relief efforts across the affected regions. These funds will provide critical assistance for immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts. Please share and support as able. Thank you.  https://www.italianamericanrelief.org/

 Living out my life with you is just natural to me.  Like knowing paper sticks to glue and honey to the bee.  When you came in the sun came up; so peaceful like a dove.  The hole inside of me has filled. Zam, bam wham. I'm in love.  The clear blue skies so high above, with clouds of puffy white. Can shine a little brighter now with you holding me tight.  When nighttime comes, the moon appears to show its beams aglow. And though the winter's cold set in, I'm warm, despite the snow.  I used to live without you and it was a life so lame.  Now that we're together, my once cold heart remains aflame. If you and I can make it; we'll soar to heaven above.  Till then I guess we'll fake it. Oh, Zam, Bam Wham. I'm in love.                                             Photo by: Myur Gala at  Mayur Gala (@mayurgala) | Unsplash Photo Commu...

 Bishop Barron breaks down the readings from the perspective of God through Jesus bringing light to darkness and unity to division. He urges us to reflect on the importance of this message especially today in times of great division among Christians.  https://youtu.be/_hgQQL1sx1Y?si=tQ8TtCfrAz9RNiX5

 Bishop Barron describes the account of John The Baptist of Jesus Christ as “The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world”. Jesus as the Lamb of God brings to completion all the previous sacrifices for sin.  https://youtu.be/GZTdPDSVaZ4?si=3YUBgKXYOf6KA2nH

 In this insightful speech near the end of his life, Martin Luther King Jr, voices his concerns about 3 evils plaguing American society: racism, militarism and poverty. He notes that they all must be addressed and dealt with in order for meaningful progress to happen.  https://youtu.be/j8d-IYSM-08?si=03uu2KHXnIWB9VwL

 Fr Chris takes a deep dive into Servant of God (1st step to becoming a saint), Maria Esperanza (hope)’s messages from Our Lady through numerous fully approved apparitions. My take: While we often see the chaotic surface headlines, there’s often much more to the story. No one really knows exactly how things will turn out; but some things always stay the same. God’s messages and God’s Mercy for us are always available for those who seek it. It starts with us. All of us. In our families, communities and broader world. 🙏🏻 🤝 ✝️ 🇺🇸 🇻🇪  https://www.youtube.com/live/yKhytUb4tb8?si=4xN_kJw6fS6ksDs1 For more informative and inspiring videos from the Marians check out their YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@divinemercy_official?si=YHYdITCGqKdUbj18

  You're our VIP—thank you for being part of Always Amalfi! This week only (ends Tue Jan 13): 20% off regular-price dresses/tops/accessories/gifting + 50% off clearance. Discount applied automatically at checkout! BIG ANNOUNCEMENT (email family first!): Multiple pop-ups each month around NJ + lower NY to grow our in-person footprint. Perfect chance to shop coastal vibes live if you're local! Event schedule will be sent out weekly! Check out our latest items and stay connected with us at  https://alwaysamalfi.com   With Love, Amanda

 In this insightful and heartfelt address, His Holiness decries the specter of war and calls for international laws and human rights to be upheld. He also touches on the importance of multilateral cooperation including among the United Nations. Finally Pope Leo highlights the importance of speech to relate to truth and understanding. He notes “Reality itself becomes debatable…” and urges respectful dialogue among people.  https://youtu.be/AjL0F4GGb2k?si=wVXIv9fCKzsXYCXM

 We stayed up until midnight. Wanting to start the New Year right. Out with the old, in with the new. Planning out the things to do. That ball did drop in old Times Square. A certain magic filled the air.  The plans and hopes that we hold close.  And nearness to those we love most. I sigh sometimes for what could be.  And cry sometimes, cause hey, that’s me.  But whether you are far or near.  I wish you all a good New Year. 

 Sharing these statements from the Venezualan government from Lee Camp. My initial thoughts: This is an unfortunate continuation of our longstanding practices of sticking our nose in others’ business that should not be our concern. I have no idea if Maduro is “good or bad” but that should be for the people of Venezuela to decide, which I’m sure they’re quite capable of doing. The U.S.A has intervened politically in Latin America since at least the 1940s and likely well before that. “No wars” sounds great; but should not be expected when our leaders bomb, broadcast and repeat and now essentially kidnap a foreign president. This is not what I voted for but I will continue to pray and work for peace as able: for the U.S.A, Venezuela and elsewhere; especially the most vulnerable countries and peoples.

 From Catholic News Agency.  Our Lady of Coromoto is the Patroness of Venezuela. I pray she may intercede for this nation and its people.  In this moment of uncertainty, we join in prayer for our brothers and sisters in Venezuela, and we entrust this beloved nation to its patroness, Our Lady of Coromoto: Jesus Christ, our Lord,   we come before You in this time of great need for our homeland.   We feel both anxious and hopeful,   and we ask for strength as a precious gift of Your Spirit.   We long to be a people committed to respect for human dignity,   to liberty, justice, and the pursuit of the common good.   As children of God, grant us the grace to build fraternal coexistence,   to love everyone without exclusion,   to stand in solidarity with the poor,   and to work for reconciliation and peace.   Grant us the wisdom of dialogue and encounter,   so that together we may build a civilization of love   through ...

   From  Https://www.alwaysamalfi.com Happy New Year!    As we welcome the new year, I just want to take a moment to say thank you for being part of the Always Amalfi community. Your support truly means the world to me.    Just a friendly that our After Christmas Sale ends TONIGHT at midnight:   ✨20% Off sitewide  🍋 Extra 30% Off clearance items- including new clearance styles recently added   If you've had your eye on something Amalfi-inspired, now is the perfect time to treat yourself before the sale ends.   Final hours- ends tonight at midnight   Wishing you a happy, healthy, and stylish new year. I can't wait to share what's ahead in 2026 💛   With Love, Amanda