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Monday Night at the Movies
📅 Year One: The Way of
Witness — Conscience, Community, and Sacrament
Start: November 3, 2025
🔸 November 2025 – Poverty, Resurrection, and Hidden Grace
- Nov 24
– Mouchette (1967)
Robert Bresson's Mouchette (1967) is a stark, minimalist portrait of suffering and alienation, offering a deeply Catholic meditation on innocence, sacrifice, and the mystery of grace.
🎬 Film Summary: Mouchette (1967)
- Setting: A rural French village, bleak and isolating.
- Protagonist: Mouchette, a teenage girl burdened by poverty, neglect, and abuse.
- Plot Highlights:
- Mouchette cares for her dying mother and infant brother while enduring her father's cruelty and her school's rejection.
- A brief moment of joy at a fair is swiftly interrupted by her father's control.
- Lost in the woods, she encounters Arsène, a poacher who rapes her after a seizure.
- She returns home to find her mother dead and faces further humiliation from townspeople.
- After a series of degrading encounters, she walks to a pond and rolls herself into it—an act of suicide.
✝️ Catholic Lessons and Symbolism
Though Bresson’s approach is more anthropological than doctrinal, Mouchette is rich with Catholic resonance:
1. The Innocent Victim as Christ-Figure
- Mouchette’s suffering mirrors Christ’s Passion: she is misunderstood, abused, and ultimately sacrificed by society.
- Her gentle care for her brother and mother evokes Marian tenderness and sacrificial love.
2. The Mystery of Grace
- Bresson’s Catholicism is subtle but present. He believed in grace as a force that operates mysteriously, even amid despair.
- Mouchette’s final act—rolling into the water—can be read as a tragic baptism, a return to God through suffering.
3. The Number Three and Trinitarian Echoes
- The film uses symbolic triads (e.g., three dresses offered by the old woman) to evoke the Trinity and spiritual completeness.
4. Critique of Ritual Without Compassion
- The villagers’ mechanical religiosity contrasts with their cruelty. Bresson critiques empty ritual divorced from mercy.
- The churchgoers in black, the funeral preparations, and the shroud all evoke Catholic rites, but lack true charity.
5. Sacrifice and Redemption
- Mouchette’s suicide, though a mortal sin in Catholic teaching, is framed not as condemnation but as a mirror to societal failure.
- Bresson invites viewers to reflect on how communities create victims—and whether redemption is possible through empathy.
NOVEMBER 24 Monday
Sardine Day
Tobit, Chapter 5, Verse 16
This is the angel Raphael who says to do not
fear. It is interesting to note that Raphael name and function means the
medicine of God.
One of the Seven[1]
Raphael
is one of the seven archangels who bring prayers before God (Tobit xii. 15),
although he was not one of the six who buried Moses. In Enoch, xx. 1-7 he is
the second among the six or seven angels, Michael, as the most prominent, being
placed in the Middle. In the lists of planetary angels given in the Jewish
calendar, Raphael presides over the sun and over Sunday (ib. p. 56). The
four angels Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel appear much more often in
works of Jewish mysticism. From heaven they behold all the bloodshed on earth
and bring the laments of souls before the Lord (Enoch, ix. 1-3). From out of
the darkness they lead souls to God (Sibyllines, ii. 214 et seq.). They
are the four angels of the Presence, and stand on the four sides of the Lord,
whom they glorify (Enoch, xl., where the fourth angel is Phanuel). Each has his
own host of angels for the praising of God, around the four sides of whose
throne are the four groups of angels. In accordance with their position in
heaven, they are the four leaders of the camp of Israel in the wilderness:
Michael on the east, opposite the tribe of Levi; Raphael on the west, opposite
Ephraim; Gabriel on the south, facing Reuben and Judah; Uriel on the north,
facing Dan. In like manner, the four rivers of paradise are divided among these
four angels ("Seder Gan 'Eden," in Jellinek, "B. H." iii.
138). Raphael, like every other angel, can assume any form he will (Tobit); a
tablet on his breast bears the name of God (Pesiḳ. R. 108b); according to the
Zohar, he is the chief of the "ofannim." Arealization of the foreign
character of this angel is inferred in the statement of Simeon ben Laüish (in
250 C.E.) to the effect that the names of the angels originated in Babylon,
meaning among the Parthians who ruled there (Gen. R. xlviii. 9). Raphael, as
his name implies, is the angel of healing diseases and wounds (Enoch, xc. 9);
he overcomes Asmodeus,
the evil spirit; he binds even Azazel,
and throws him into a pit (Enoch, x. 4). He cures blindness (Tobit l.c.;
Midrash of the Ten Commandments, in Jellinek, "B. H." i. 80), and
because of his healing powers he is represented as a serpent (Origen, l.c.).
Raphael, as the third in rank, appeared with Michael and Gabriel to cure
Abraham (Yoma 37a; B. M. 86b; Gen. R. xlviii. 10). He cures also moral evil
(Pasiḳ. R. 46 [ed. Friedmann, p. 188a]).
Raphael
was a favorite figure in Christian as well as in Jewish angelology, and early
Christian amulets, encolpions, tombstones, and other monuments have been found
bearing the names of the angels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. A small,
gold tablet discovered in the grave of Maria, the wife of the emperor Honorius,
bears a similar inscription. The names of the same angels occur on Basilidian
gems, and Origen likewise mentions them.
His
name occurs in Judæo-Babylonian conjuring texts, and is conspicuous in the
liturgy—as in the evening prayer, where he is mentioned together with the three
other angels, at whose head stands God, exactly as in the Christian version of
Zechariah.
Tobit[2]
- Tobias went out to look for
someone to accompany him and who should he run into but Raphael, the
angel!
- When asked if he knew the way
to Media, Raphael replied that he often stayed there with Gabael (who just
happened to be the guy holding the bag of money) because they were
kinsmen. (Though this seems to be an amazing stroke of luck, it, of
course, reflects the providence of God.)
- Tobit wanted to meet him and
when pressed for a name, Raphael said it was Azariah, which means “Yahweh
has helped.”
- Both Tobit and Tobias had no
clue as to Azariah’s true identity even though he told Tobit he would soon
be healed.
- Tobit wished them a safe
journey, saying, “May [God’s] angel accompany you both and protect
you!” (Another example of great irony!)
33 days to
Christmas-Start the 33 days to Eucharistic Glory[3]
Want to start a
small group? Download our 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory Study Guide
Day 3
On
this 3rd day seek with all your soul to be faithful
to the resurrection of Christ.
Copilot:
Devoting yourself wholeheartedly to the resurrection of
Christ is a profound way to anchor your faith and live a life of purpose. Here
are some suggestions to help you stay faithful:
Deepen Your Understanding
- Study
Scripture: Focus on passages that discuss the resurrection, such as 1
Corinthians 15 and the Gospel accounts. Reflect on their meanings and how
they apply to your life.
- Theological
Books: Read works by theologians who explore the significance of the
resurrection, like N.T. Wright's "Surprised by Hope".
Live Out Your Faith
- Prayer: Make
prayer a central part of your day. Seek to connect with Christ, asking for
guidance and strength to live faithfully.
- Service:
Follow Christ’s example by serving others. Volunteer in your community,
help those in need, and show kindness and compassion.
Join a Faith Community
- Worship:
Regularly attend church services to celebrate the resurrection and be part
of a supportive community.
- Fellowship:
Join small groups or Bible studies to share your faith journey and grow
together with others.
Reflective Practices
- Meditation:
Spend quiet time each day reflecting on the resurrection and its impact on
your life.
- Journaling:
Write about your faith experiences and how you see God working in your
life.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
Day
165
Liturgy and culture
1204 The celebration of the
liturgy, therefore, should correspond to the genius and culture of the
different peoples. In order that the mystery of Christ be "made known
to all the nations . . . to bring about the obedience of faith," it
must be proclaimed, celebrated, and lived in all cultures in such a way that
they themselves are not abolished by it, but redeemed and fulfilled: It is
with and through their own human culture, assumed and transfigured by Christ,
that the multitude of God's children has access to the Father, in order to
glorify him in the one Spirit.
1205 "In the liturgy, above
all that of the sacraments, there is an immutable part, a part that is divinely
instituted and of which the Church is the guardian, and parts that can be
changed, which the Church has the power and on occasion also the duty to adapt
to the cultures of recently evangelized peoples."
1206 "Liturgical diversity can
be a source of enrichment, but it can also provoke tensions, mutual
misunderstandings, and even schisms. In this matter it is clear that diversity
must not damage unity. It must express only fidelity to the common faith, to
the sacramental signs that the Church has received from Christ, and to
hierarchical communion. Cultural adaptation also requires a conversion of heart
and even, where necessary, a breaking with ancestral customs incompatible with
the Catholic faith."
IN BRIEF
1207 It is fitting that
liturgical celebration tends to express itself in the culture of the people
where the Church finds herself, though without being submissive to it.
Moreover, the liturgy itself generates cultures and shapes them.
1208 The diverse liturgical
traditions or rites, legitimately recognized, manifest the catholicity of the
Church, because they signify and communicate the same mystery of Christ.
1209 The criterion that
assures unity amid the diversity of liturgical traditions is fidelity to
apostolic Tradition, i e., the communion in the faith and the sacraments
received from the apostles, a communion that is both signified and guaranteed
by apostolic succession.
Sardine Day[4]
As an amazing source of B12 and Omega Fatty
Acids, turning your nose up at sardines could prevent you from enjoying a
delicious addition to your meal. Sardine Day is your opportunity to learn about
these little fish and how you may already have been enjoying them without
knowing. Sardines originally got their name from the Mediterranean Island of Sardinia.
The English got this term from Grecian history, where the word was used to
describe the red color of the fish and the region of the sea where they were
popularized. A large number of nutrients found in this fish, combined with the
efficacy with which they could be packaged and shipped turned them into an
important trade item in the region for centuries.
Sardines are used in many dishes and are
closely related to the anchovies that are served with Caesar Salad and as a
base flavor in Worcestershire sauce. They’re also one of the main ingredients
in “Gentleman’s Relish” a popular sardine-based spread used in England for many
dishes, or just served up on buttered bread.
How to celebrate Sardines Day
The best way to celebrate Sardines Day is to
attempt to overcome your fear of this delicious fish. They typically come in
tins, pickled or packed in oil, or even packed in with mustard to preserve
them. Thousands of recipes exist that call for these fish in either their fresh
or canned form. A traditional Caesar Salad starts with a sardine being pressed
into the wood of the bowl it’s served in to provide a slightly fishy flavor,
with those who prefer a stronger flavor having two sardines used.
They’re popularly served as part of a lunchtime
snack, often with tomato and fresh avocado on top of a crisp cracker and a
sardine. They’re also commonly added to soups and sandwiches to bolster their
flavor. In fact, if you’ve ever had soup with a fish-based broth, it is likely
the sardine that was used to create the fish stock. You’ve been enjoying
sardines for ages, and Sardines Day is a great opportunity for you to find out
how much you love sardines!
AI
Overview
National Sardine Day is celebrated on November
24th to honor the small, oily fish that are related to herrings. Sardines are a
good source of vitamins and minerals, including:
·
B2
·
Niacin
·
Vitamin B12
·
Phosphorus
·
Calcium
·
Potassium
·
Iron
·
Selenium
·
Omega-3 fatty acids
·
Vitamin D
Sardines can be eaten in many ways, including:
·
On their own
·
With crackers
·
Grilled
·
Pickled
·
Smoked
·
In salads
·
Tossed with pasta and marinara sauce
Sardines were once a major food source in the
Mediterranean islands, which is where the name comes from. They have also
become a cultural symbol in Portugal, representing national identity and
resilience.
Corner
·
Artist Henri de
Toulouse-Lautrec was born, 1864
o Start your day by stirring up some
creativity with a unique talent showcase. Whether it’s juggling, singing, or
telling jokes, celebrate your skills and those of your friends on Celebrate
Your Unique Talent Day.
§ Keep the positive energy flowing by
making fairy bread to share with loved ones on National Fairy Bread Day.
·
Don’t
forget to stay fueled with a sardine snack in honor of National Sardines Day.
o Take a moment to appreciate the
flexibility and dedication of shift workers on International Shift Worker
Sunday.
§ Support au pairs and their valuable
contributions to families on International Au Pair Day.
·
Finally,
channel your inner adventurer by researching the mysterious D.B. Cooper case on
D.B. Cooper Day.
Here’s
your Bucket List Trip [3] – Part 5,
completing the 70-degree year pilgrimage from November 24–December 1, 2025. This final stretch gently
transitions from Eucharistic harvest into Advent longing—anchoring in the Verde
Valley with sacred stillness, vineyard hospitality, and symbolic closure.
🌌
Bucket List Trip [3] – Part 5: USA 70-Degree Year Journey
Dates: November 24–December 1, 2025
Theme: Stillness and Advent
Route: Tucson → Verde Valley
(Cornville base)
Style: Local pilgrimage,
vineyard reflection, and liturgical descent
Climate Alignment: Daily highs
65–70°F
💰
Estimated Cost Overview (Nov 24–Dec 1)
|
Category |
Estimated Cost |
|
Lodging (7 nights) |
$0 (home base) |
|
Food (daily meals) |
$160 |
|
Fuel (local drives) |
$40 |
|
Symbolic extras |
$60 |
|
Total Estimate |
$260 |
🕯️ Day
1 – Monday, November 24
Location: Cornville
Symbol: Pilgrim’s Rest
Ritual Prompt: “Rest is
holy—received, not earned.”
·
Morning
walk along Oak Creek
·
Unpack
symbolic items: candle, stone, journal, wine cork
·
Light
a candle for the journey’s memory
·
🧺 Foodie Stop: Simple home meal with bread and
wine (~$20)
🌿 Day
2 – Tuesday, November 25
Location: Sedona (local pilgrimage)
Symbol: Threshold of Light
Ritual Prompt: “Advent begins
in the dark—with a single light.”
·
Visit
Chapel of the Holy Cross for
quiet prayer
·
Begin
Advent journal: “What do I long for?”
·
🥗 Foodie Stop: Local café or picnic with
seasonal greens (~$20)
🍷 Day
3 – Wednesday, November 26
Location: Page Springs Vineyards
Symbol: Vine of Remembrance
Ritual Prompt: “The vine
remembers the soil—rooted, returning, renewed.”
·
Vineyard
walk and wine tasting
·
Reflect
on the Eucharistic thread of the journey
·
🍇 Foodie Stop: Charcuterie and wine pairing
(~$25)
🦃 Day
4 – Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving)
Location: Cornville
Symbol: Table of Gratitude
Ritual Prompt: “Gratitude is
Eucharist—broken, shared, remembered.”
·
Prepare
a symbolic Thanksgiving meal
·
Share
stories, prayers, and toasts from the road
·
🛋️ Stay: Home base
·
🍽️ Foodie Stop: Shared feast with local produce
(~$30)
🌌 Day
5 – Friday, November 28
Location: Jerome
Symbol: Descent and Ascent
Ritual Prompt: “The soul
descends to rise—through shadow, through song.”
·
Visit
Holy Family Church and hillside
ruins
·
Write
reflection: “What has been redeemed?”
·
🥘 Foodie Stop: Haunted Hamburger or Clinkscale
(~$25)
🕊️ Day
6 – Saturday, November 29
Location: Cornville
Symbol: Silence Before the Song
Ritual Prompt: “Before the
carol, there is silence. Before the feast, the fast.”
·
Morning
fast or quiet retreat
·
Prepare
Advent wreath or altar
·
🧺 Foodie Stop: Simple soup and bread supper
(~$15)
🌠 Day
7 – Sunday, November 30 (First Sunday of Advent)
Location: Cornville
Symbol: Candle of Hope
Ritual Prompt: “Hope is the
first flame—fragile, faithful, enough.”
·
Light
first Advent candle
·
Attend
Mass or Eucharistic celebration
·
Write
blog post: “From Borderlands to Bethlehem”
·
🍷 Foodie Stop: Vineyard brunch or home communion
meal (~$25)
🧳 Day
8 – Monday, December 1
Closing Day
Symbol: Benediction of the
Journey
Ritual Prompt: “The journey
ends in stillness—blessed, broken, beloved.”
·
Final
journal entry: “What I carry into Advent”
·
Toast
with symbolic drink (wine, cider, or limoncello)
·
Begin
planning next cycle: “Where will the light lead next?”
Daily Devotions/Practice
·
Today's Fast: Unite in the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them
in fasting: Today's Fast: An end
to the use of contraceptives.
·
Offering to
the sacred heart of Jesus
·
Rosary.
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