Pray Twice

Growing up in a Catholic family, attending a K-12 Catholic school, worshipping in a Catholic faith community, I oft heard the refrain:  "He who sings, prays twice."  Music was an integral part of my life and the life of our family.

Now my sister, Diane Mahoney, who grew up in that same environment, has cut a CD of religious, spiritual songs.  For the last 30+ years she has placed her talents and her Masters Degree in music at the service of the Catholic faith community as liturgist, organist and choir director in the various parishes to which she belonged.  Along with two other musician friends, she has produced a beautiful CD entitled "Give Me Jesus".  It is a varied collection of spiritual and meditative songs from traditional to contemporary style, all designed to give praise and honor to God as they lift the minds and hearts of the listeners.

As I listened for the first time to this inspirational disc, my heart was touched and the tears flowed down my face.  I felt like Moses before the burning bush when God said:  "Take off your sandals for you are standing on holy ground" (Ex 3:5).  I definitely was in the Presence of the Divine.

To enjoy a taste of this masterpiece by listening to track 4, click on the icon below.

Ave Maria (Hail Mary).wma

This song, and all the rest, are wonderful reflections for this Advent season.  What a gift this would be for yourself or one of your loved ones in this special time of God's giving to us.  To order "Give Me Jesus", contact Diane Mahoney at (319) 752-3487, or email her at stanmah@mchsi.com.  Give yourself the gift of praying twice.