Why SAP?

Much like the sap of a tree, this effort is meant to help young people recognize their brokenness and encounter the life of someone who never gave up despite our damaged nature. When we exhale, meditation offers us the opportunity to associate all our anxiety, stress, and division with the carbon dioxide that leaves our body in that moment.

“Tree sap flows through sapwood, which produces carbon dioxide. Sometimes this carbon dioxide causes pressure to build up within the tree. If there are any wounds or openings, this pressure will eventually force the tree sap to ooze from the tree.”

Thus, “trees do not typically leak sap unless damaged in some way.” How incredible is our God that He would give us such a thick, tangible analogy by which to relate our capacity to live a life of virtue?! We do not typically leak sanctification unless when we embrace our cross, unless the pressure from Satan and the culture of death damages us in some way.

However, we can only be sanctified if we ADMIT we have wounds that need to be healed and thus begin to rely upon Him for our own resurrection!

Young people performing the lives of the saints at community events is a visible means by which to evangelize the culture of our parish communities and allow Christ to guide us to Him.

THE MEMORARE — Remember oh most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was in known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence I fly unto thee, oh Virgin of Virgins–my Mother. To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful! Oh Mother of the Word Incarnate, despite not my petitions, but in thy mercy, hear and answer me! Amen.

The St. Michael Prayer — St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.Be our protection against the wickedness & snares of the devil. May God rebuke Him we humbly pray, and do thou oh prince of the Heavenly Hosts, by the power of God, cast into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls, Amen.