O Blessed Be the Saints

Today is the first of November. Before we get into all that this Day of Holy Oblation holds, I want to touch on the theme of November. Each month throughout the year, the Church has attached a theme. October, for example, was the Month of the Rosary.

November is a month dedicated to the souls in Purgatory. That should come as no surprise since the 1st is All Saints, the 2nd All Souls. Those set the tone, don’t you think? Today we give thanks for thosse who have gone before us, to be with the Lord in the glory of heaven. Tomorrow we pray for those who have also died that they may be washed clean.

Saints are such amazing people. Saints are not perfect. Some are down right sinners and scoundrels, far from the perfect souls God had in mind. Be it a saint who came to the Lord as a child, or a saint who came kicking and screaming as an adult, it is the surrendering completely of self-will for the will of God that creates a true saint. No saint is without personal struggle or moments of doubt. When I went through a deep crises of faith, my pastor reminded me of the doubts others have faced, and assured me that I was in good company. In other words, never give up. The Lord has a plan. Trust in that. While we might not all reach the platitude of Sainthood, we have a place awaiting in heaven.

Today is a Holy Day of Obligation and a Friday. I love it when the two meet. It’s like a double blessing.

Cajun Seared Tilapia
4 Tilapia Filets
3 teaspoons Cajun Spice, divided
4 tablespoons Butter
Black Pepper to taste
4 tablespoons Butter
1/3 cup White Wine

Note: If frozen, thaw tilapia in the refrigerator over night.

Pat filets as dry as possible with paper towels. Season with a teaspoon Cajun Spice and pepper. Set aside.

Set a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to the pan as it warms. Scatter remaining 2 teaspoons Cajun Spice over the melted butter. Swirl pan to coat the bottom in the seasoned butter. Increase heat to medium-high.

Once sizzling, place the fish into the pan without over crowding. Cook over medium-high heat without disturbing for about 3 minutes, until seared and beautiful. Gently turn with a spatula, cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Add wine, swirl pan. Plate tilapia, drizzle with pan juices. Delicious with Rice Pilaf and Green Beans.

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He shall receive a blessing from the LORD,
a reward from God his savior.
Such is a people that seeks Him,
that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.