We are moving foreword with preparations to resume construction on the House of Prayer.  We had a preliminary plan review with the State to see if the plans meet the present building codes.  There are a few changes to be made to bring the drawings up to code, but we should be able to make those changes without a problem. 
     We also met with some experienced construction personnel to see how we can best proceed with the project; and, to give us a rough cost estimate.  Our plans are to resume construction early in spring as weather permits.  A building construction supervisor will be working with us to oversee that the drawings are being followed and the work is being done correctly.
     The message of Oct. 7, 1950 to Mary Ann Van Hoof: "My child, the Shrine is to be in the form of a heart in honor of My Divine Son’s Sacred Heart and My Immaculate Heart to entwine with the hearts of men.  The tower should be as a flame of love ascending to God the Father in Heaven.  When walking beneath the tower into the heart of the Shrine, the sinner should find refuge, the afflicted comfort, with help for all Christians, hope for those lost and confused, and peace for all men of good will.  From this heart should flow love and prayers from many souls.  My Divine Son is so desirous that all honor Me first out of love for Me.  Our hearts entwined from the first moment of the Incarnation.  My Divine Son loves me, for every drop of blood I gave Him in my womb.  This is the love that should flow from the Sacred Spot to all my children."
     Please pray that we are successful in fulfilling this request of Our Blessed Mother.  Also, please pray for our volunteers who are helping to make this possible.

     We would like to again thank all of you who participated in the Spiritual Bouquet that has been sent to Our Holy Father. Our Blessed Mother asked us to offer our first prayer each day for him, so we can be assured that our efforts will be of benefit to him.
     A  Novena of 27 Holy Masses will be said for him from January 6 through February 1, 2010, plus the following Bouquet, which was mailed to him.