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A good friend once chided: "When Greg gets going it's Gregorian Chant... and when he really get's going, it's Gregorian Rant." My personal blog was born. If you appreciate authentic, straight-forward commentary and conversation about edgy things that matter, those that challenge us most, join us. Follow. Read. Share. Rant.

Who am I? You really can't pin me down.

I love Vivaldi, Kansas, Bethel Worship, Seph Schlueter (my son), Sinatra, Joe Bonamassa, and Gregorian Chant.
I like the Breviloquium, Island of the World, Liturgy & Personality, The Hobbit, Boys in the Boat, A Man Called Ove, All the Light We Cannot See, Tribe, and Sapiens.
I drink refreshing filtered water, Glenmorangie, and Big Bad Baptist (imperial stout).
I do high intensity interval training every day and like a good cigar.
Yesterday on guitar I played Ramble On and Fall Afresh.
Last week on piano I played Come Sail Away and improvised to jazz classics.
I've worked on Hollywood films and silly family films from my phone.
I've been blessed by those in big homes and those in thatched huts.
I'd be delighted to have a beer with Biden, or a Coke with the Donald.
I believe the roots of our Republic are appointed, anointed, and flawed.
I believe that institutions can not love, only people can.
I worship with hands raised and in contemplative silence.
I'm roused by Gladiator and moved to tears by It's A Wonderful Life.
I pray in tongues and chant in Latin.
I'm overwhelmed by kindness and am grieved when peace can only be found on the other side of war.
I've experienced God through miraculous healing, and joy-filled endurance of suffering.

I believe when Catholics rediscover their Evangelical wings and Evangelicals rediscover their Catholic roots we'll be one church lifting this world to heaven. (Article)

I believe truth is not something you speak because it is attractive or easy, but because it corresponds to a little bit of darkness for which you've been entrusted light.

CLICK TO FIND OUT MORE.
Above all, having examined every other path and found them wanting, I am engaged in the adventure of more fully discovering my identity and mission in Jesus Christ, particularly as husband and father of seven children. I believe knowing our mess is necessary to truly knowing our Messiah. As a family, with all our friends, we're singularly motivated to Make God, who IS Love, Known. Our dream is to build regional places for marriage and family revival. (DONATE HERE)

Find out more about our adventure at ILoveMyFamily.us.

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HEADING INTO OUR ULTIMATE END: Impactful Stories & Songs About What Matters Most


HEADING INTO OUR
ULTIMATE END
BY GREG & STEPHANIE SCHLUETER

Named by Spotify "one of the top podcasts" last year, in our latest episode of IGNITE Radio Live, with so much happening in the world right now, with so much at stake, we took out the stops and went there. Discussing what matters most. And the importance of delivering timeless truths with stories. We also weave in some moving songs released by our son, Seph Schlueter, a new recording artist for Sony/Provident, and one from Damascus Worship. Below is just an excerpt from the program. LISTEN: 
 

Let's be honest here. Through baptism, we have been claimed for Christ. We spend our lives striving to remain consistent with that choice. Yet, in the smallest nuances of our daily existence, we sometimes reject Him in our thoughts. We reject Him in our feelings. And this dance plays out on a grand stage through politics. And what awaits us, discussed in so many private revelations, is an event called the "great illumination of conscience." In this event, we will see our souls as God sees them – a profound and sobering thought.

Imagine for a moment that we suddenly saw our souls from God's perspective. Where even the slightest rejection of God, the smallest acts of selfishness, lust, pride, or the use of our resources for self-serving ends would be seen in all their horror. These actions, choices, and failures to act separate us from God by our own free will.

However, the great illumination of conscience, though difficult, will be a gift of mercy. An opportunity for us to repent. Saints predict that many will return to the Church when it occurs. While it's not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, we know that we'll all face this moment one way or another – either when we die or when we truly see our souls as they are. 

As we delve into the political season, it becomes clear that we need to engage and understand what's at stake. The greatest pursuit of the Enemy, the devil, is to destroy God's image in humanity. Since he can't do it directly, he seeks to influence us to reject our God-given identity, particularly our gender, as established in Genesis 1:27. God created us in His image as male and female, and this confusion is causing significant brokenness. Our role in this isn't to be self-righteous or indignant toward those struggling with these issues. Instead, we must have compassion and care for anyone experiencing confusion.

This struggle isn't merely personal but has become institutionalized, with one particular political party and aligned interests pushing to create gender confusion that inflicts much suffering. As adults, we're faced with a critical choice. Are we going to step up and be the protectors we once hoped adults would be when we were children? This is the overarching narrative we confront, especially with the upcoming election, where we can make a difference in defending the rights of the unborn, minors, parents, and families amidst life-altering decisions.

Along with many others who’ve said “yes” to seeking greater holiness, we now extend a heartfelt invitation to all families, all seekers of truth and grace, to partner with us at CatholicRevival.us. We are building a community where the Rosary is wielded as a powerful weapon, unity, a cherished treasure, and the triumph of God's grace, a reality.


In Christ's love,

Greg & Stephanie Schlueter
Mass Impact | Image Trinity


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BREAKING NEWS: After Call for His Resignation Pope Ponders Next Act


"The work of the devil will infiltrate even into the Church in such a way that one will see cardinals opposing cardinals, bishops against bishops. The priests who venerate me will be scorned and opposed by their confreres... churches and altars sacked; the Church will be full of those who accept compromises and the demon will press many priests and consecrated souls to leave the service of the Lord."
Our Lady's Message to Sr. Agnes on October 13, 1979

BREAKING: Remember Pope Leo XIII and his vision of demons rushing over the Eternal City, prompting the St. Michael Prayer? Well, it turns out Pope Francis has taken that story as inspiration. In an interview with Unamerican Magazine, he’s reported saying: “Satan’s minions have been unleashed. Why not join the party?”

Our dear Pope Francis, the mastermind behind such classics as “Promote the Pedophile,” "Pachamama Earth Mother Goddess: A Vatican Vacation,” "Eucharist Desecration: The Sequel," “Any Old Religion Will Do,” and “Abide in Biden,” has decided to kick things up a notch. He's like the Gordon Ramsay of papal pranks, always looking for ways to spice up the ecclesiastical menu.

Not content with controversial appointments and a sprinkle of synodal silliness, Pope Francis has decided that it's high time to add another courageous, faith-filled bishop to his list of dismissed divines. Move over, Bishop Olmsted and Archbishop Chaput; there's a new kid in town, or should we say, being banished from town. Bishop Joseph Strickland, you're up for the papal guillotine!

In this brave new world of canonical caprice, where doctrine moonwalks in the shadows of solemnity, it seems like anything goes. Popes used to be all about preserving tradition and guiding the flock, but now it's more like they're auditioning for a reality TV show. "You’re Retired!", anyone?

But wait, there's more! In a plot twist that even Machiavelli would envy, a completely obscure group of Catholic faithful in Toledo, Ohio, has thrown their miters into the ring. Armed with a solemn pledge by the Pope to smell like his sheep, empowered by synodal sass, they're calling for his resignation.

So, as we eagerly await Pope Francis's potential career change, we can't help but imagine the wondrous world of opportunities that lie ahead. Who knows? Maybe he'll open a chain of Vatican-themed restaurants, serving up holy cannoli and angelic lasagna. Or perhaps he'll become the world's foremost expert on papal fashion, hosting a Vatican-style makeover show.

Whatever the future holds for Pope Francis, one thing is certain: it's bound to be as entertaining as a Vatican catwalk show featuring cardinals in their most fabulous vestments. Until then, dear readers, keep your rosaries close and your popcorn closer. As we navigate this spiritual soap opera, remember that laughter is the best exorcism. We'll be here, sipping celestial cappuccinos and waiting to see what Pope Francis cooks up next in his papal potluck of surprises.


FULL DISCLOSURE: I wrote and released this because if we can't laugh, we'll cry. I am a devout Catholic. Which is to say, a sinner. Far from the mark. Daily in need of God's ever-loving, merciful, healing, transforming grace. I don't presume to erase that high mark just because I fall short! It is not revealed to bash, but to bless. It's revealed for my salvation in Jesus Christ. To that end, I greatly need clarity. Encouragement. Accompaniment. And the Sacraments of eternal life. Not confusion. Watering down. Diminishment. And I will continue to pray and fast for an outpouring of transforming, awakening grace upon Pope Francis, as well as all prelates, leaders, and lay people. God made us weak so we will seek. We share this journey. We were made for excellence. God didn't make us for less. Let's be about it. CatholicRevival.us



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SHADOW HANDS: FINK, SOROS, & THE CULT OF CONTROL (based upon Joe Rogan's incredible interview of Patrick Bet-David)


Ladies and gentlemen, gather round, for I bring to you a tale of power and influence that would put even the most riveting Shakespearean drama to shame. Only it’s true. And shockingly bearing on the shape of the cultural, economic, and political ground on which we all tread. Following the great response to my piece on the unholy "Alinsky Trio" of Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden (Inside the Left's Playbook: How to Ignite America), let's go deeper. In the realm of modern politics, where the strings of power are pulled by hidden hands, picture, if you will, a cadre of puppet masters: Larry Fink, George Soros, and the other self-appointed presidents of United States, Inc. 

Now, allow me to introduce you to Patrick Bet-David. Born in the tumultuous lands of Iran, his family sought refuge on American shores, and young Patrick eventually found himself in the financial world, building his empire of insurance and media. A man of contradictions, he claimed no political allegiance, critiquing both sides of the aisle with the precision of a surgeon's scalpel.

Our story begins with a riveting conversation on the Joe Rogan Experience, where Bet-David, armed with facts and candor, laid bare the disturbing dance of power that weaves through our world. BlackRock, Vanguard, State Street – you may have heard these names whispered in hushed tones, but little did you know, they're the undisputed rulers of the kingdom. They have their fingers in the S&P 500 pie, with a staggering 88% of the largest companies under their control.

But that's just the beginning. These financial titans have insinuated themselves into the very heart of our nation's defense contracts. Raytheon, General Dynamics, Boeing, Northrop Grumman – the list goes on, and the puppet masters pull the strings. It's like a capitalist's dream come true. With defense contracts reaching a mind-boggling $744 billion, they've got Uncle Sam in their pocket.

They've infiltrated Hollywood, they've infiltrated pharmaceuticals, and they've infiltrated every nook and cranny where the scent of money lingers. They've got a virtual monopoly on the world, with BlackRock's assets under management reaching an astonishing $10 trillion, more than the GDP of all but two nations on Earth. They're the gatekeepers of wealth, the stewards of the modern pantheon.

And most shocking, they've embraced the ESG movement with open arms. Environmental, Social, and Governance – the holy trinity of virtue signaling. But it's not about being virtuous; it's about control. They've rallied $70 trillion under their banner, and they've even dipped their toes into the geopolitical game with a $400 billion contract to rebuild Ukraine. The question echoes: What the hell is going on here?

Let's ponder the motives. What drives these demigods of finance when they already have more money than they can possibly spend? It's about control, and perhaps a hint of godlike delusion. George Soros himself once declared, "I fancied myself as some kind of a God." And Larry Fink and his ilk, they're not far behind, basking in the glory of their financial omnipotence. But how do mere mortals fight back against this colossal conglomerate of influence? Andrew Schultz, the sage, suggests a strategy – patience. It takes time to topple giants, even with the power of Jiu-Jitsu. But, alas, this isn't just a billionaire's playground; it's a game of world domination.

Our commander-in-chief? A mere puppet, a figurehead. The true puppeteer is Larry Fink, the president of the United States, Inc. With the other top power-brokers, all devout Democrats, he’s championing the cause of hardworking Americans with the robustness of Emerson, Lake and Palmer’s “Fanfare for the Common Man.” Played backwards. An ordinary man himself, worth just north of $1 billion, he sits on the boards of the Council on Foreign Relations and World Economic Forum. These financiers have insinuated themselves so deeply into the fabric of our nation that they can replace CEOs, fire boards, and dictate the course of history. It may be worth noting that the ouster of FOX’s outspoken Tucker Carlson neatly coincided with BlackRock acquiring a substantial stake in the company.

The ESG movement, it's their smokescreen. A ruse to maintain their control and manipulate the masses. The motives may be a bit murky, but the consequences are all too clear. As we watch the world turn, remember, it's not always the politicians who pull the strings, but the puppet masters who hold the purse.

The next time you hear the names BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street, know that behind the curtain, they're not just managing assets; they're managing our reality. It's a brave new world, and we're all just characters in their play, puppets on their strings, dancing to their tune. If we let them.

God help us. And help us help ourselves.


READ NEXT:
Inside the Left's Playbook: How to Ignite America

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We believe traditional marriage and family are the heart of civilization. Help us revive the heart of America. Read the inspiring story and movement associated with Supreme Makeover: Home Edition. Thank you.
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INSIDE THE LEFT'S PLAYBOOK: HOW TO IGNITE AMERICA




Hillary Clinton. Barack Obama. Joe Biden. These three luminaries have been iconic of the left’s mission to rewrite history. Continuing their Party's tradition spanning back to the days of opposing the liberation of slaves and denying women their rightful suffrage, this trio has taken the helm of igniting the fuse of chaos.

To really understand their playbook, we need to turn to its principal author, Saul Alinsky, a pioneering community organizer and political activist. Alinsky's influential book, "Rules for Radicals," laid the ideological foundation that both Clinton and Obama drew upon. Central to Alinsky's philosophy was the belief in direct action as a means to achieve social and political change. As a pioneer of political weaponization, he emphasized the importance of organizing and mobilizing marginalized communities to exert pressure on existing power structures. This often involved stirring up conflict and confrontation to expose what he regarded as inherent contradictions within those systems. Alinsky also championed the tactic of personalized attacks against opponents, considering ridicule and mockery as potent tools to delegitimize adversaries.

If you want to know Alinksy's real inspiration: 

Lest we forget at least an over-the-shoulder acknowledgment to the very first radical: from all our legends, mythology, and history (and who is to know where mythology leaves off and history begins — or which is which), the first radical known to man who rebelled against the establishment and did it so effectively that he at least won his own kingdom — Lucifer.
(Rules for Radicals, Saul Alinksy) 
 

Clinton and Obama both internalized these principles, employing community organizing and advocating for progressive change during their political careers. The strategies of empowerment through mobilization and the use of confrontational tactics resonate as hallmarks of their political trajectories, reflecting the lasting influence of Saul Alinsky's pragmatic approach to achieving transformative change. Joe Biden, though not an Alinsky acolyte himself, emerged as a convenient choice for continuing the legacy – a malleable marionette whose mental state conveniently suited him for puppetry.

With the lines drawn (satire and sarcasm alert!), let's turn to the true masterstroke, as our trio has so radically pivoted from opposing basic human rights and traditional values to embracing policies that erase our national identity by advocating for open borders. Who needs sovereignty and security? And let's not forget their ingenious plan to disband the police while simultaneously turning the Justice Department into a political weapon. Because what's more efficient than fighting crime by handcuffing law enforcement and letting ideological crusaders enforce their vision of justice?

Economic prosperity must have been too dull for their tastes, as they've masterfully presided over some of the worst economic conditions in recent memory. It's almost poetic how they champion a culture of dependency while paying lip service to empowerment. Nothing says "freedom" like reliance on government handouts.

Identity politics, civil unrest, and violence – these three truly know how to throw a party. Their leadership has transformed once-thriving Blue Cities into hotbeds of turmoil, where ideological clashes take precedence over the rule of law. Truly, they've taken the art of division to new heights.

They haven't just ignited chaos; they've mastered the art of twisting and weaponizing words to suit their narrative. While few would oppose the assertion that black lives matter, the leadership of Black Lives Matter has managed to exploit the goodwill of others for massive financial gain, while using it as a battering ram to further their agenda, often against those who are black. Similarly, Antifa, ostensibly advocating against fascism, has paradoxically become a paragon of fascism – ruthlessly quashing perspectives divergent from their own through violent means. These linguistic acrobatics are a testament to their craftiness in using language as a tool to manipulate and divide.

And of course, they've taken it upon themselves to redefine basic human concepts like gender. By institutionalizing gender confusion and promoting a culture of mental dysphoria, they've achieved unparalleled rates of depression, despair, and suicide. It's as if they believe societal progress is best measured by the number of people confused and suffering.

Now, in their most audacious act yet, they're pushing for minors to exercise their newfound "freedom" to terminate unborn lives and undergo life-altering surgeries without pesky parental consent. Who needs the guidance of those who brought you into the world when you can have the benevolent hand of bureaucracy making decisions for you, decisions that will impact their lives forever?

The power they wield has become deeply embedded, defying any office or representation. In the grand theater of political puppetry, they masterfully orchestrated a macabre symphony with an unholy alliance of government, big pharma, and dot-com oligarchs. And what perfect timing! Behold, Fauci's Viral Masterpiece, a meticulously manufactured chaos-conductor, that suspiciously debuted just in time for elections – a coincidence that would make even the most imaginative conspiracy theorist blush. The result? A dazzling spectacle of government encroachment, snugly entwined with the social engineering dreams of socialism.

Like a well-choreographed dance, this virus and its ever-so-elusive companion, "vaccine," prompted a delicate takeover of our lives, leaving no aspect uncontrolled. From the moment we woke to the last tweet we read, their influence was as ubiquitous as a catchy pop song. Their craving for an obedient populace was engorged by a serendipitous blend of governmental mastery and technological prowess, all to ensure that the principal means of an informed society remained firmly in the clutches of those who've mastered the art of pulling strings. (All validated by the likes of Musk's Twitter dump and other whistleblowers with the courage to emerge from the shadows.)

In the grand tapestry of American history, the rapidly fraying threads are being spun at the spindle of these three figures. A legacy of erasing borders, sowing discord, and championing policies that defy common sense and traditional values. One can only marvel at their audacity to claim that their actions are all in the name of American freedom. Historically the story they're penning is one of a once beautiful, bold, and bountious nation set ablaze by misguided ideology and reckless leadership.

God help us. And help us help ourselves.


READ NEXT:
Shadow Hands: Fink, Soros, & the Cult of Control
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We believe traditional marriage and family are the heart of civilization. Help us revive the heart of America. Read the inspiring story and movement associated with Supreme Makeover: Home Edition. Thank you.
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SCIENTIFIC STUDY: THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF GRATITUDE




Recently our son released his first song as a signed recording artist, "Counting My Blessings" (Sony/Provident). Thus, as it's been reverberating through my soul, I've been reflecting on the power of gratitude. Which prompted my finding this very insightful and impactful article. 

SUMMARY: NEUROSCIENTIST GLENN FOX was skeptical about the power of gratitude. Until he decided to keep a gratitude journal after grieving his mother's passing. This decision marked the beginning of his transformation, from a researcher studying gratitude to one who would personally discover its extraordinary benefits. Gratitude fosters pro-social emotions, creating enduring connections, vital for human survival and flourishing. Including healing from trauma. Gratitude links to other emotions, like love and trust, and has myriad positive effects on health, including stress reduction and improved immune system, blood pressure, and heart function.

In fact, the part of the brain responsible for anxiety is the same responsible for gratitude. Practical guidance in obliterating anxiety in your soul: Count your blessings! Now let me ask, given awareness of this superpower, what if somehow we could do more than merely cultivate an attitude of gratitude, but literally partake of its essence? To literally consume gratitude? Glad you asked. 

THE EARLY CHURCH unequivocally held the belief that the consecrated bread and wine truly become the body and blood of Christ during the Mass—a profound mystery that transcends human understanding. This transformative act of Communion allows believers to partake in Christ's sacrifice, receiving His healing grace and forging a deep connection with the Divine.

THE WORD "EUCHARIST" originates from the Greek word "eucharistia," which translates to "thanksgiving." Or, gratitude. This linguistic connection holds great significance. Just as gratitude journaling has been shown to enhance mental well-being, the Eucharist invites us to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness at the very core of our being. Beyond mere words, this Sacrament enables us to express gratitude by uniting ourselves with Christ's self-giving act on the Cross. Through the Eucharist, we embark on a journey of internal transformation, shifting our focus from distress to gratitude, thereby paving the way for healing and renewal.

JUST AS GLENN FOX'S JOURNEY of gratitude transformed his grief, the practice of receiving the Eucharist is Christ's unsurpassed gift of His very self, uplifting those who are burdened with distress, anxiety, and suffering. Received in faith, the Eucharist is the superpower given to transform our lives. In the Eucharist we intimately partake in Christ's very Presence, His Supreme Act of self-giving love, giving humanity the opportunity to experience the fullness of life, flourishing not only spiritually but in all aspects of existence, in this world and through all eternity.

You can find robust communities of real people truly striving to live this life in its fullness everywhere, but we certainly invite you to connect with our movement with Mass Impact at CatholicRevival.us.
 

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THE MYSTICAL MEADOWS: A Very Short Story About Family



In the serene embrace of a sunlit meadow, living streams wound about two steadfast oak trees, named Bellerophon and Arete, who stood as pillars of virtue. Regarded not so much for their perfect attainment as for their perpetual pursuit. Their branches reached toward heaven, offering shelter to creatures in need.

One blessed day, a gentle wind carried seven precious seeds from Bellerophon and Arete's branches, gently placing them in the fertile soil below.

With an unwavering sense of their sacred nature and purpose, imbued with great anticipation for what was unveiling, the trees watched over their seeds, nurturing them with refreshing streams, rain, and the warmth of the Son.

As time flowed with the living streams, the seeds sprouted into tender saplings. Bellerophon and Arete, ever pining for godly wisdom, forged their saplings in kindness, humility, and fortitude, guiding them through the seasons. 

Years marched on, and the saplings matured into strong youths, their roots growing deep into the earth. But a unique tension emerged. The young trees, aware of their well-formed stature and distinct qualities, began to press for their own turf. They desired to extend their branches, making their own paths in the meadow.

Bellerophon and Arete, while knowing their sacred trust, their godly authority in the meadow, knew that this entailed forging their growing progeny for the same. To recognize and live their own missions and purposes. To expand godly care and influence to other meadows.

One radiant dawn, as the first light kissed the horizon, Bellerophon and Arete, with their beloved, knew something was different. The winds seemed to whisper: "God's plan now beckons you to make your own path. As your parents have stood firmly in their faith and pursued virtue, now is your time to find your place and make it sacred!"

With a mix of reverence and determination, perhaps a tinge of fear that forges all who face the unknown, the growing trees drew deep upon the streams of living water and knew they were ready to extend their young leaves. With that, they stepped away from the nurturing embrace of their elders. Fortified by awareness of common roots they could always count upon. Support, encouragement, and formation they would continue to receive. Near or far.

In the world beyond, the growing trees encountered trials and tribulations, but they also found strength in the formation and foundation of Bellerophon and Arete. They learned to stand steadfast in the face of adversity, to draw sustenance from the living waters, and to seek God's light to fuel their growth. In abundance. To overflow.

As the once young saplings flourished into noble trees, their branches lifted high in praise, Bellerophon and Arete gazed upon them with hearts full of gratitude and humility.

The lesson: "Great roots always remain," and "If they don't go, they won't grow.”

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What this looks like today for us: ABOUT OUR FAMILY.



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