Friday, June 20, 2008

Awarness

Greetings to all! First and foremost I want to thank each one of you for you dedicatedness to this blog, to our family, to prayer, and to our loving God! Before I can go into what I have to say tonight I need to give you a little background because there are many of you who do not know me and my wife personally or our spirituality. My wife and I believe that the God of all creation reigns in each of our hearts and that if we are to truly and I mean truly live, then we must live out of the freedom that can only be found through that God, who lives in each one of our hearts. Therefore, Ali and I have been on a journey into our hearts to find that God and that freedom for the past few years, and it has been a ride, one that I am glad we have taken and one that we still walk. Now, with that being said, if we believe in God, then we must acknowledge that there is a force that is fighting against that God, and therefore fighting against us in our journey to find that God and our freedom. Ali and I believe that in the life there is spiritual realm that we do not see, but plays an active role in our day to day lives. This may sound strange to you or it may not be part of you spirituality, but it is part of ours and I want to show you, in the unfolding of todays events how an assault can happen and did happen. Actually, let me back up to yesterday, Ali shared with me yesterday, that she did not think it was any coincidence that it was Baby Cate's heart that was not working well. She said, "Charlie, you and I strive to live out of our hearts, to listen to what God is saying in our hearts and to follow that and lead our family from that. It's not her kidneys, its not her lungs, NO, its her HEART." I said, wow, I had never really thought about that. As we got to the hospital this morning, there was a different feel in the air, don't get me wrong, its been a week now, and its been a long week, but up until today we had pretty much been a united front. Ali went and laid down to get some rest and my in-laws showed up as they do every morning, but there was something different about them this morning. I noticed that my mother-in-law cried more than she had in the days past. My father-in-law came up to me and said, "I sure am glad there are alot of people praying, cause I am done, I am pissed off Charlie," too which I understood and felt very similar. As the day progressed and news got worse, I began to see things falling apart. My mother-in-law and I had what you would call a bit of an exchange of words, not really so much an exchange, more me unleashing pure fury on her, my wife and I lossing it at our Baby Cate's beside to the point that my eyes hurt, alot of blank stares all around. I found myself praying that God just take Cate, I asked the Perfusionist if her organs could be used for someone else, I think there was a part in all of us, who threw the towel in, and as I sat in the waiting room I heard the words, "you can't maintain this hope, this is ridiculous, she is going to die," spoken in my heart. Ali, finally went back to the Hotel to shower and have some alone time. I went outside the hospital and just walked and prayed asking God, "what happened today?" And I heard the words, "you were attacked," to which I responded, "ok, I know how to handle this," and I began to pray, I prayed against any evil spirits there were at work in our hearts to steal our hope, I prayed that Christ send down a legion of Angels to surround my wife and defend her heart and that He send down another legion to surround my daughter's bed and fight for her life." I continued praying and thinking and realized, YES YES, there is an attack on us, LOOK AT THIS BLOG PEOPLE, go back and read comments, there are so many comments that are from different people who say they are coming back to Jesus, through this situation. Baby Cate is bringing people to CHRIST!!!! She is uniting a small, but not really that small nation, under the banner of God, and that does not make, the opposing team happy, I don't name him, cause he is not worth the text. Of, course there would be an assault on her life and her family. If we give up hope in her and her recovery then WHO HAS IT!!!! I got back upstairs to the waiting room and there was a large envelope on my computer. It was filled with T-Shirts that a family in Crowley, I believe, had screen printed. On the front it says, Baby Cate's Team and on the back it has the scripture verse "For in Him our hearts have joy; in His holy name is our hope." Psalm 33:21. I pulled my shirt off in the waiting room and put this shirt on. I thought you know what if I give up, if I give in, then I give over the power, and to HELL with that, literally! I am her dad, and I will fight for her to the end, I am going to be her biggest defender and cheerleader. So, I marched into her room, I sat and I talked and laughed with the nurses, we told funny stories, because I wanted her to know that her dad was there, he was by her side and he had HOPE! I got word that Ali was waiting outside the ICU because I had been inviting our family in one by one to talk to Cate and sit and laugh and to enjoy hope. I walked out of the doors and Ali was sitting there, we chatted for a minute and she said, "I feel like I was robbed of hope today" I had not told her any of what I had experienced earlier in the day, THERE WAS THE CONFIRMATION, that what I had prayed against was true! And she said I feel different tonight, I feel like my hope is returning. THE POWER OF A HUSBAND AND FATHER is so important and that has been proved to me over and over in my marriage and in my fatherhood. So, I told her what had happened when I had prayed early in the day and that I felt like I needed to pray against, the opposing team, and that if we lose hope then he wins, and that aint happening under my watch. So, Ali went in to see Baby Cate and to bring joy and hope into that room and I went down and called a team meeting. I gathered our parents up, mine came today, they have been keep our other two crazy kids, and I told them what I felt had happened, that there was an assault on our hope and that we must reclaim it. No matter what happens to Baby Cate, we are a people of hope and NO ONE CAN TAKE THAT AWAY. Our reconvened under the same banner tonight, united in Hope and united in the Love of Christ. My prayer request is specific tonight, PRAY AGAINST THE HOPE STEALER!!!! This may not be something you do or have ever done, but I ask it on behalf of our family. And so I end this message of hope by praying; That we, all of us and all of you, come under the banner of Jesus Christ tonight, the hope of the world! We rebuke Satan and all his spirits who prowl the earth, seeking the ruin of souls. We come under the authority of Jesus Christ and the power of the Cross and break any bonds, chains, or agreements that we have made with the evil one. We command them to the foot of the cross where they shall receive judgment and be sent back to hell where they belong. We love you Jesus, you are hope!! And we lift baby Cate up to you tonight and we stand vigilant in that Hope. AMEN
Please pray for us!

112 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ali and Charlie,
We are all praying for yall this weeken at steubinville south!!! And we hope that Baby Cate will be able to pull through!! But I just wanted to let yall know that we are here for yall and we miss yall at steubinville!!!
Love Michelle and St Joe life teen group

Anonymous said...

AMEN BROTHER!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Standing in the Gap in the protection of Almighty God - there is NOTHING to fear!

Thank you King Jesus for your defense and your action in this life right now.

Way to go, people, what an idea with those shirts! What a timely weapon of hope.

We love our team BIG Charlie, Ali and Baby Cate,

Aaron and Kate

Anonymous said...

I meant to type YOUR team. Woopsie. :)

Anonymous said...

Hope is Alive. Remember John 15 "I love you as my Father has loved me...Abide in ME!" He is hope and we must abide in that hope!

John Ray & Alesha

Anonymous said...

Charlie!
HOPE IT UP!!!!
SPE SALVI!!! Saved in Hope... Pope Benedict XVI knew what he was doing when he released this encyclical and YOU hosted our Young Adult Retreat on HOPE!!! Praise God Charlie!!!

We have started a new prayer mission...
"ACROSS THE NATION AND AROUND THE GLOBE:: Uniting in Hope and prayer for Cate Cantrell"

We are trying to get the name of at least one family in each state in the US (and any other countries around the globe) that will/already have committed to praying for Cate and the Cantrell family.

Wouldn't it be a powerful gift to physically see the names of families across the nation and around the globe to step up and believe in the miracle. Believe in the HOPE that God is desiring???

JOIN UP!!! Post your family name, city and state, and I will compile it from either the blog on here or you can email it to maureen@adoreworship.com

God bless. DONT STOP BELIEVIN'

Anonymous said...

Also, in case you haven't yet heard ab the Baby Cate Fund....

So often we find ourselves in these situations wondering what we can do to help.... and now we have been given the opportunity to do just that! We can pray (through intercession, fasting and sacrificing, masses being offered and holy hours) and we can rally up around this great family and ask the Lord for financial provision. Be a part of something great in Prayer AND in Deed!!!

IF YOU BANK AT CHASE...::
You can walk in to any Chase Bank and fill out a deposit slip with their account name and number and it will be deposited on the spot. Or you can do it online at www.chase.com
Account Name:: Catherine Cantrell
Account Bank:: CHASE Bank*
Account #:: 2910552567
(It may be necessary to indicate the account was started in TX when donating online)

IF YOU DO NOT BANK AT CHASE::
You can go to ANY bank and have funds wired to the CHASE account. You will need to let your bank know that funds need to be wired to:
Bank:: Chase Bank
Bank Routing Number:: 111000614
Account Name:: Catherine Cantrell
Account Number:: 2910552567

Thank you!! Please contact me with any questions or call chase bank at: 1-888-MYCHASE

PLEASE CONSIDER A TITHE TO THE CATE CANTRELL FUND!

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR GENEROSITY AND SUPPORT.
PLEASE KEEP PRAYING AND SPREADING THE WORD OF PRAYER AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO OTHERS!

If you have any questions please feel free to call or email me.
504.813.9517
maureen@adoreworship.com

Anonymous said...

O my Jesus, You have said: “Truly I say to you, ask and it will be given you, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened to you.” Behold, I knock, I seek, and I ask for your healing power to heal baby Cate's heart.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.

O my Jesus, You have said: "Truly I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in My Name, He will give it to you.” Behold, in Your Name, I ask the Father for the grace of Peace and Hope for the Cantrell family.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.

O my Jesus, You have said: “Truly I say to you, heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” Encouraged by Your infallible words, I now ask for the grace of Strength, so that the Cantrell's can withhold from the attacks of Satan.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You.

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, for whom it is impossible not to have compassion on the afflicted, have mercy on us sinners, and grant us the grace which we ask of You, through the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary, Your tender Mother and ours.

Amen

Anonymous said...

We really don't know what to say but WOW....We love you your whole family and we a praying for you every minute we can....
we love you
Kristi and Eric and M3

Anonymous said...

AMEN CHARLIE!
I've been having the same thoughts, we are making the opposing team very uncomfortable.
With just 2 posts on message boards today, I got over 30 responses (and still growing)from people who have begun praying for Cate and your family today and have vowed to continue. Your sweet Cate is bringing people everywhere closer to God and the "hope stealers" are but dirt under our feet. They have no power here!
God bless you and your family,
Cheree

Anonymous said...

...and all God's children said Amen and Amen!!

Claire said...

"Only Hope"
There's a song that's inside of my soul.
It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again
I'm awake in the infinite cold.
But You sing to me over and over and over again.

So, I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours, I pray, to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope.

Sing to me the song of the stars.
Of Your galaxy dancing and laughing and laughing again.
When it feels like my dreams are so far
Sing to me of the plans that You have for me over again.

So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours, I pray, to be only Yours
I know now, You're my only hope.

I give You my destiny.
I'm giving You all of me.
I want Your symphony, singing in all that I am
At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back.

So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only Yours, I pray, to be only Yours
I pray, to be only Yours
I know now You're my only hope.
-switchfoot/mandy moore

much love and many prayers of HOPE.

Suthern, Glenn, Leyton & Ashton Thibodeaux said...

Ali and Charlie,

HOPE IS HERE TO STAY!!!
I don't know you Charlie...but WOW what a writer you are! I have sat here at my computer for 2 hours nonstop reading your every word on your blog for the very first time. I actually went to school with Ali, she was one of my pledge sisters in KD. I just wanted to let yall know that you are all in my prayers and I just know Baby Cate will make it through...she has such a great team supporting her. I will continue to pray for Baby Cate with every passing minute!
Love,
Suthern Thibodeaux (Doucet)
Missouri City, TX

Anonymous said...

You have a beautiful family, and your daughter has so many people praying for her.

One gentle suggestion as a help to those who love keeping up with your blog would be to use paragraphs. It's very hard to follow line after unbroken line of tiny type written words.

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,
I continue to pray for all of you and Baby Cate. I pray that Hope shall remain in your hearts and Cate's heart will mend with the help of Lord. I pray that tomorrow will bring the good news that we have all been waiting for, but especially you and Ali.
Sheilah

Anonymous said...

I am praying right now for your baby girl. For Jesus himself to walk into her room and to touch her heart, heart value and lungs. In Jesus name give her a new healthy heart. To perform surgery with never a knife touching her.
In the precious holy matchless name of Jesus!

Anonymous said...

charlieiwouldkeepreadingyourblogsevenifyoutypedallthewordstogetherwithnospacesorpunctuationdontworryaboutparagraphsithinkyouhaveenoughtodealwith.

Anonymous said...

charlieiwouldkeepreadingyourblogs
evenifyoutypedallthewordstogether
withnospacesorpunctuation
dontworryaboutparagraphs
ithinkyouhaveenoughtodealwith

Anonymous said...

hey charlie sometimes i have runonsentences too so don't worry about run on paragraphs i understand you have a few other things on your mind so no big deal just remember we all have hope in the glory that god has really big sleeves and that there is something big up there for baby cate love you charlie and ali
from the original anonymous and the campaign for a punctuation free world

this ad was endorsed by mr ronnies. famous and fresh.

Anonymous said...

I love the big paragraph. I read the blog with with such anticipation of good news that paragraphs would slow me down.



Psa 71:5 For thou [art] my hope, O Lord GOD: [thou art] my trust from my youth.


Psa 71:6 By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise [shall be] continually of thee.


Psa 71:7 I am as a wonder unto many; but thou [art] my strong refuge.


Psa 71:8 Let my mouth be filled [with] thy praise [and with] thy honour all the day.

Psa 71:14 But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.


Psa 71:15 My mouth shall shew forth thy righteousness [and] thy salvation all the day; for I know not the numbers [thereof].


Psa 71:16 I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, [even] of thine only.


Psa 71:17 O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.

Psa 71:19 Thy righteousness also, O God, [is] very high, who hast done great things: O God, who [is] like unto thee!


Psa 71:20 [Thou], which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.


Psa 71:21 Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.


Psa 71:22 I will also praise thee with the psaltery, [even] thy truth, O my God: unto thee will I sing with the harp, O thou Holy One of Israel.


Psa 71:23 My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed.

Anonymous said...

How amazing it is that such a small child can bring so many people back to Christ. I know i've experienced this for myself and it is absolutely amazing. Y'all are in my thoughts and prayers constantly!

Anonymous said...

How amazing it is that such a small child can bring so many people back to Christ. I know i've experienced this for myself and it is absolutely amazing. Y'all are in my thoughts and prayers constantly!

Anonymous said...

It's 2:48 am and I just finished nursing little Bubba. I walk back into our room and immediately began to pray Lord have Mercy. Hope stealer is correct as Alesha and I sat on the phone this afternoon and cried out of sorrow and anger. Seeing your kids though brought a light to my world that no one could take away this afternoon. And tonight, I give your child to the foot of the cross and won't lose hope. I think whatever is in God's plan it may be pretty big!!!
-Ali I can't tell you how much your sisters over here in Rayne, Carencro, Opelousas, Lafayette want to love and hold you. Please know that and feel our presence with you. We pray for your strength and endurance.
-Charlie, be nice to her :)

With love and hope,

Rebecca Orillion

Anonymous said...

PS:
I totally have chocolate milk and iced mugs waiting for you Ali for when you bring that baby home:)!!

Rebecca Orillion

Anonymous said...

I have been following your heartbreaking journey the past few days and my heart goes out to your family. What a beautiful little girl and family you have. I'm sure she has brought tremendous joy to your lives. Cherish that and stay strong. Stay hopeful. I am praying hard for baby Cate. My 5and 3 year old sons will be saying a prayer for Cate with me at night. I know God is with Cate and your family. God bless.
Tricia Young

Anonymous said...

AMEN! We are children of the Light!

A friend sent me the link to your blog and our family is praying for Cate and your entire family.

Sherry in PA

Anonymous said...

Hello,

I don't know you. I read a post from your friend Cheree on SparkPeople, which linked me to your blog. It moved me to hear about your situation and your walk with God. I also believe there is a spirtual battle going on. I believe that the devil wants to rob us of our faith and will do what ever it takes to do so. I am blessed to here that you guys are aware of this and it has made your faith stronger. I have three children myself and he tries to attack them as well. I will pray for Baby Cate and this whole situation. Blessed be to God to handle all of it! Take care!

God Bless,
Joyce Wolfe

volpecircus said...

Hallelujah! Praise be to Jesus Christ now and forever!

Anonymous said...

Amazing. We will pray for you and hope with you. Praise God that He spoke Truth into your heart today!

Anonymous said...

I pray for your family constantly.....I've been drawn to Baby Cate's story since her birth and cannot think of anything else but praying for your whole family!

I pray that Saint Michael the Archangel intercede for you and your family by protecting you all, everyone of you, against the wickness of the evil spirit!

Today, I will light a candle at church for Baby Cate...a big one so that the light of Christ may continue to shine...where there is light, there is HOPE!

Live in the LIGHT of CHRIST!

Anonymous said...

Dear Charlie and Alli,

Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

My friend and I will be going to a Catholic healing mass today with Cate as our first prayer request. When our baby boy was in surgery at Texas Children's I was told that there were angels with her during her surgery. Your Cate has angels around her as well.

May Jesus hold you in the palm of His hands and may you feel the warmth of his infinite love.

In Christ,
Kathy Spielmann

Anonymous said...

Our candle remains lit for Cate and for your family. Our prayers are constant. We will not give up. We are with you. We are "in it to win it."

Anonymous said...

Charlie, I think that was the most beautiful post I have read yet. I have been praying hard and yesterday I talked about it with my Mom and I was crying and angry and frustrated for you. She told me the very same thing you posted--that it was so beautiful how your little angel was touching so many lives and how that wouldn't set well with some. And she is Charlie, more than the people that post here or on othe blogs...I personally know of people who haven't prayed in years much less so fervently to God. She is His instrument as are we, and how awesome that He is using her.
I am so proud to know you (sorry Ali, I have never met you) and I am so happy to know that you will NOT be robbed of your hope.
Last night I think God put something in my head while I slept...I just kept thinking that we were CATE'S CRUSADERS...your post this morning more than confirmed that.
Just remember the title of your post a few days ago--IN IT TO WIN IT. That title speaks volumes--you are in it to win a healthy heart for Cate, but also in it to win that battle against OTHERS...
We are praying harder than ever. My 2 year old has now taken to blowing kisses at Cate's pic everytime he sees it--even he is praying...

ST. MICHAEL protect you, and God bless you and keep you all safe.
Christie Noel

Anonymous said...

I've never met your family. My godchild Hillary told me about Cate the day before her surgery and asked me to pray for her. She loves your family so much and has been praying for all of you. I have been praying for Cate and the Cantrell family everyday since as well. I have also given Cate's name to my Pastor and we have been praying for her at church. I have several scriptures that were given to me recently that I want to share with yall.

Ephesians 10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, TO STAND. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Psalms 143:11-12
For your name's sake, O lord, preserve my (Cate's) life; in your righteousness, bring me (her) out of trouble. In your unfailing love, silence my (her) enemies; destroy all my (her) foes, for I (she) am (is) your servant.

1 Corinthians 10:31
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.


May God continue to give you strength and peace in your time of need. May He stretch out His almighty hand and with one touch heal Cate's heart. In Jesus' name we all pray. Amen

Patty B.--Arnaudville, La.

The Sojourner said...

I found your blog recently and just wanted to say that I'm praying for you and Baby Cate. The enemy doesn't win. He never really wins.

Anonymous said...

Prayers for you and your family from St. Pete Florida. We pray for a complete healing of Cate and we pray for strength for you. May our Mother Mary's mantle envelop Cate and your whole family.
In Christ, our hope.
Charles & Betty Bauer & Family

Unknown said...

Good morning Ali and Charlie,

It is amazing how such a tiny child can be so strong. I feel in my heart that baby Cate will come through this battle. We will pray harder that the good Lord up above will bring baby Cate back to her loved ones.

Glenda Robichaux

Anonymous said...

Ali and Charlie,

I had recieved an email and I am truely touched and saddened for what has happened to young Baby Cate. I am working offshore in the Gulf and I promise to have anyone I come in contact with say a prayer for your family and daughter. I speak on behalf of my crew and we are ALL praying for her. May God bless your family in this time. I am from Illinois and I will send the word to everyone I know to say a prayer for young Cate. God bless all who have prayed for your family.

Anonymous said...

Through a precious baby girl, God and His Kingdom are being Glorified!!! It is so powerful, I can actually feel it here in Crowley! It feels like a mystical movement - people are praying everywhere, guardian angels are in over-drive, and the evil one can only recede.........the words that have been resonating in my heart I share with you and Ali and your parents - "rest in His Grace".....
God Bless You!
Donna H.

Anonymous said...

AMEN!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!! Charlie, you gave me chills this morning reading the blog! I hope everyone reads it over and over until it is etched in their soul! We are praying..we have not given up! No one should give up on this precious angel! She is fighting so hard and she is going through more than anyone right now. You and Ali are amazing parents...we are praying faithfully for Baby Cate.
Love, Stephanie Johnson

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali, Nikki and I continue to pray for Cate as we have almost continually since the day of surgery.
I echo everyone's thoughts-- don't let the hope stealer achieve his goal. Continue to hope in the Lord! Please kiss Cate for all of us and know we are praying hard for her and your family. Praise God in the storm!
Gerry and Nikki Traylor
Gerry Traylor

Anonymous said...

God is with you...He will help you in all your troubles. My heart goes out to you. I will pray today for your dear little girl...The novena to the Infant of Prague is a powerful prayer....Our God is good...thank you for taking the time to chronicle this heart wrenching episode in your families life. Your wittness to Jesus ..your faith and love and hope in Him is beautiful...God bless you and especially your dear baby Cate.

Anonymous said...

The first scripture that come to my mind is PUT ON THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD THAT YE MAY BEABLE TO STAND AGAINST THE WILES OF THE DEVIL EPHESIANS 6:11

If GOD is for us than who can be against us!!!!!!
Praying for your entire family and your beautiful Baby Cate!!!Tessa D.

Lila Lambert said...

I am so proud of all of you to stand in the face of opposition and reach out to the One who promised to be there always...when the evil one knocks on the door of your hearts...send Jesus....I fight with you each day and Bill and Cheryl I know that you have walked this path before and are shining examples of faith for your entire family and friends..God bless all of you and especially baby Cate, we just send an army of angels to encamp around you and protect that precious child...Lila

Anonymous said...

Team Cate ,
We are praying. !
Blessings , the Benzingers

Anonymous said...

Ali and Charlie,
Please know that I am praying for Baby Cate and your family daily. Though this is an extremely difficult time, your faith in God shines so bright. Please be encouraged in the fact that all thing are possible through God. The mere definition of faith itself demonstrates the power God has to change things around beyond our mental/physical capabilities(Hebrews 11:1). Continue to draw your strength from the one who has proven himself through miracle after miracle. Finally, I will close by giving you and your family an encouraging reminder that God is continually with Cate and you(Psalms 22:24).

Praying God's blessings on your family,
Mary Spencer (J.W. James)

Jamie said...

we are picking up that towel and surrendering to God - infact we are making a huge banner with all those towels - praising God and asking for his healing power!! We are still praying for you - harder and more efficient now:) I think I am going to keep on with this praying journey. Love you guys!

Jamie Breaux Fonseca

Anonymous said...

More prayers...and thank you for bringing me and so many others closer to God, every day life and the things we think are important consume us until something like this wakes us up and reminds us that there are only two things in life that matter: God and family. And as I was reminded by Luke the other day when I asked him who he loved the most.. (and of course I was waiting to hear mom on top of that list) and he said God, then mom, then dad etc.........A 5 year old. God's creation of children is truly a miracle and Cate truly is uniting a faith community and making all of us wake up and not take for granted ANYTHING we have and to pray, pray, pray and pray. As I cheer Elizabeth this weekend in her baseball game , I will be cheering for Cate and telling everyone I meet about Cate's story and her blog. We love ya'll. Mandie K.

Team Pisano said...

We continue to stand strong and hopeful on Baby Cate's Team.

Praying, praying, praying.

The Pisano's

Tara said...

WOW!!! What an amazing witness to me. I just can't tell you how overwhelmed I am by your faithfulness to our Lord. All I can think of is putting on the Armor of God which a lot of other people have mentioned as well. I love you all so much and my prayers of HOPE continue.

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,

I cannot begin to put into words what I feel for you and your family. Your faith in God is an inspiration to all and I am sure Cate's blog has touched SO MANY people and brought so many back to Christ.

How amazing and wonderful that you take the time to write this. How magnificently you can put your feelings into words and touch so many people. I read your words and cry in sadness and joy at the same time - sadness that you all are going through this, but joy in seeing your faith in our Heavenly Father and how someone as tiny as little Cate can bring so many people to their knees praying to our God.

Bill has gone every morning to light a candle for little Cate. I am getting everyone I can to pray for Cate.

I can't begin to tell you and Ali how much you all mean to us. What an inspiration you are to others and true disciples of God. I LOVE YOU ALL SO DEARLY!!!! We will continue to pray hard .

By the way, don't worry about making paragraphs-it is amazing to me that you can put your feelings into words that touch so many people. We are grateful for your writings!!! You are doing a wonderful job of keeping all of us aware of what is going on with Baby Cate and what we need to pray for. It's a miracle in itself that you have the mental and emotional strength to even write anything at all. I don't think people are worried about paragraphs-we hunger for your words as it brings us closer to you all and our Lord.

Much love and God Bless,
Cathy & Bill Ferguson
Little Rock, AR

Anonymous said...

Good morning Charlie and Ali,
When I woke up this morning I realized that I needed to share a specific prayer with you. It is from a favorite book of mine
" Becoming a Prayer Warrior" by Elizabeth Alves. So I'm just adding Cates name in for you. I think it's a very powerful prayer.

I speak to you, satan, in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. I take authority over you and bind all demonic spirits assigned to Cate Cantrell and her family. Loose them and let them go free in the name of Jesus! I demand that you stop your maneuvers against this child of God. Cate(and her family are) is covered by the blood of Jesus, the precious Lamb slain for her.
Lord, I ask that Your will now be done, and I thank You. In Jesus' name and by His authority, I declare it done.
Thank You, Lord, for watching over Your Word to perform it. in Jesus' name. Amen.

Anonymous said...

I read the blog last night, and again today. Often am unsure what to say. Just want you to know (as you already do!) that because of you, your family, and baby Cate, many people are praying, and HOPING...

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,
A few days ago we posted and told you that you reminded us of the song Bring the Rain by Mercy Me. This was the theme song for our family when our son was fighting for his life. I wanted to include some of the lyrics because I think they really fit where your hearts are. We love you and continue to pray for you all. Blessings, Chris and Denise Perry

Bring the Rain by Mercy Me

I can count a million times
People asking me how I
Can praise You with all that I’ve gone through

The question just amazes me
Can circumstances possibly
Change who I forever am in You
Maybe since my life was changed
Long before these rainy days
It’s never really ever crossed my mind

To turn my back on you oh Lord
My only shelter from the storm
But instead I draw closer through these times

So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there’ll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that’s what it takes to praise You
Jesus bring the rain

I am Yours regardless of
The dark clouds that may loom above
Because You are much greater than my pain

You who made a way for me
By suffering Your destiny
So tell me what’s a little rain

So I pray
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory

And I know there’ll be day
When this life brings me pain
But if that’s what it takes to praise You

Jesus bring the rain
Holy, Holy, Holy Is the Lord God Almighty.

Susan DeMerchant said...

Dear Ali & Charlie, Cate and family,

This will be my last post for awhile! Here's why!

Quite honestly when I woke up this morning I was expecting to hear the Cate had gone to meet Jesus!

Praise the Lord! Jesus has come to meet with all of you! ( at a hotel room, in ICU, at Cate's bed on the Houston streets.)!

Back in 1994, Dillon's expected short CVICU visit turned into days,weeks and thank goodness we got home just before the month mark! I feel such heartache for you all. But I need to focus that energy on Praying God's healing power over Cate and you all.

I say y'all I just have a real hard time seeing it in text! We're Canadian, eh!

Ahh! That's it you tried to put your finger on it in the ICU but just could'nt! That coffee does alot but.......

Smile! Charlie and Ali, I know that I probably don't even have to tell you what a testimony your faith gives to the other families waiting in ICU. I'm sure you are affecting their lives as you have mine!

Now, My scriptures I leave with you. Mainly because I'd rather you be reading God's word that my mispelt mumble jumble.

Yes, my scriptures:

"A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."
Proverbs 18:24
Hence me taking a break from writing for awile.

2. "Because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me." 1 Corinthians 16:9
This was your yesterday!

3."You will Seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13

4. "The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him,to the one who seeks him." Lamentation 3:25

I don't want to stand in the way of your time with Seeking God!
Please know I'm using my time seeking God and praying to Him on your behalf also.
I have'nt forgotten you guys! I'm claiming Victory over Cate's heart.

and Lastly,

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."
1 John 4:4.

Susan DeMerchant, Dillon's mom!

Anonymous said...

Ali & Charlie,
Two years ago my husband & I were sitting at Texas Children's Hospital for over a month, we were feeling the same way you all do, hopeless & helpless. There was nothing we could do for our child. Until one day it hit me, God gave this child to us, so I have to give him back to God. I never stopped praying, but at that time I started praying harder & harder! He answered our prays! What I am trying to tell you, I am so proud of you two, for not giving up! Baby Cate & the Cantrell family are in our prays, esp. in
my sons' prays(John-Paul).
Keep the faith,
Jolette Poche(Becca's Dance teacher)

Anonymous said...

AMEN BROTHER!

Praise be to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit! You are right on target Charlie! The Holy Spirit within you is manifesting the gifts of the Spirit (discernment of spirits, wisdom, etc.).

Ali is bringing in MANY people for Christ. Be confident in the Lord and His protection and know there are many that are praying that are experienced in Spiritual Warfare! We are on watch for you and your family. Remember, the enemy has already been defeated!

May the Lord Bless you and Holy Spirit continue to rest upon you and your family.

Jennifer Dautreuil
Dieu Donne Prayer Group
Arnaudville, LA

Pat Broussard said...

The hope train is rolling. Get on board. Faith, Hope and Love. The greatest of all is love.

Ted and Pat Broussard
Carencro LA are on board and won't give up hope and prayers.

Anonymous said...

man, you do not know how perfect your timing w/ this post is...seth and i were having the same conversation last night about losing hope, forces working against the Almighty and His people, faith the size of a mustard seed and so on....it caused a loss of sleep last night, praying even more than usual several times throughout the night to banish fear, worry, bad thoughts and the demons attacking the family and those all over the world praying for them and also for forgiveness of those thoughts that aren't from God...it makes me curious just how many folks the evil one was trying to get to yesterday...more than just coincidence, ya know? thank you so much for your honesty and sharing what you were going through...man, what timing....God is so cool, huh?

the bermans

Cinco Owens said...

Charlie and Ali,
AMEN!! I believe that God is using Cate to unite all of us under Him and that through your angel we are uniting with our Father to bring back His hope in us. Our world has abandoned Him so many times and your beautiful daughter is bringing so many home....she is truly an angel. I continue to pray for His will and for strength, hope and peace for all of you. In St. Faustinas Diary Christ's words are "It is not for the success of a work, but for the suffering that I give reward" (90) and again "I do not reward for good results but for the patience and hardship undergone for My sake." (86) You are a constant prayer in my heart, thank you for sharing your journey and touching so many souls. God Bless Baby Cate. YSIC, Melanie

Anonymous said...

jehovah jireh! meaning the LORD will provide! he will provide HOPE for precious baby cate..i'm still here with you guys and your family is never far from my thoughts!
Love,
Jackie Drilling
St. Laurence

Anna said...

We stand resolve with you. We will continue to pray for the warfare you guys are going through.

The Kedingers

Anonymous said...

We're with you, praying FOR you & AGAINST the opposition.

Hugs,
em

Joanne Wilson said...

Ali and Charlie, I am praying for you. Thank you for the honest and real insights you keep sharing. I am praying against the hope stealer and prayer for healing for Cate. Your lives are truly a light in the storm.
Joanne Wilson
Boston

Julie said...

Charlie, Ali, and Family,
God is with you. I saw a devotion from Mother Teresa and wanted to share it with you.
"Often you see small and big wires,new and old, cheap and expensive electric cables that are useless, for until the current passes through them there will be no light.
The wires are you and me, the current is God. We have the power to let the current pass through us-to use us-or refuse to be used and allow darkness to spread".
I know that they could probably turn out all the lights in Cate's room and the Light of Jesus would be shining. He is with you all. Feel His love. I love all of you.
Julie Roy (Ben Dupre's mom)

Anonymous said...

God bless you! Your words are powerful. Let Jesus carry you.

Paul said...

Charlie and Ali,

We are praying for Baby Cate and your whole family as well as for the whole medical team. I will offer up my daily activities for our prayer. Thank you for sharing the Faith and Love of God through this blog. Keep strong and Hopeful.

Love,
Paul, Jean and Jonathan Bauer
St. Laurence

Anonymous said...

Amen...I do believe...Amen.
-Kristi

Anonymous said...

Praise God that the Holy Spirit gave you clarity of this attack and now our HOPE is even stronger. God has called us to dig deeper and the Cantrell family is answering that call!
Praise God!
Love, Paul and Klair Latino

Anonymous said...

Hi Charlie and Ali,

Mark Shea added a request for prayers to his blog, so that is how I learned of Cate.

We had our heart baby 6 yrs ago, but I vividly remember the tensions - and yes - the spiritual attacks that came. Crazy things happened at inopportune moments, etc. But with the grace of God we got through it and that is how you will too (as you know)- sometimes muddling, sometimes soaring through each day.

We also asked for the intercession of Fr. Seelos. If our baby had been a boy we would have named him after Fr. Seelos.

Prayers for you all, and for Cate especially.

Monica

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,

I am still here praying away for you guys-you don't have to wait until you get home-go get a chocolate milk right now if it will help you.
I just want you to know that the Mercy Devotion is one of my favorite prayers and it only takes about 5 mintues to say and it is so powerful in these days of battle. Pray it alone-pray it together--and don't forget the words "JESUS I TRUST IN YOU"

Nicky

Baby be Blessed said...

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Not just some things...ALL THINGS working together for His Glory. The Lord placed this scripture on my heart. Praying daily for Cate and your family!! ~Tina

Anonymous said...

The Fletcher family is still praying and hoping with you.

We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 1:3

Love,
Thomas and Bridget Fletcher

terese said...

miracle
(Latin: mirari, to wonder)

An effect which causes admiration because it cannot be produced by any natural agency but only by the power of God. It is above the natural law, as when one dead is restored to life; contrary to this law, as when Moses caused water to gush from a rock; independent of the law, as when something that might be done by natural causes, e.g., the immediate cure of a dangerous malady, is effected without the aid of physician or medicine. Granted the existence of Almighty God, since He could create the universe and establish its laws, there is no reason why He cannot alter its course and interfere with its laws. There is every reason why He should do so if He wills to conflrm some truth or fact by miraculous manifestation of His power, as did Our Lord and His Apostles when it was hopeless to expect men and women, as they were at that time, to accept the teachings of Christianity without such evidence of their Divine origin as miracles.

We are praying for Cate's Miracle

Anonymous said...

We believe that there is an Evil One and that he works in darkness. We will stand in Light of our Lord and Savior. We will hold your family and Cate in that Light through our Prayers and Praise to God.
Amen
Todd and Julie

Anonymous said...

wow... I am always wowed by your blogs! And I agree with every word in the one! I will join the battle in praying for unending hope!!

Teresa Clark

Anonymous said...

Dear Ali and Charlie,
You don't know me, but I posted a comment a few days ago about my devotion to Bl. Seelos. I am a friend of Aimee Landreneau. I continue to be so moved and touched by your faith, and my heart aches so much for what you are going through. I have also been forwarding e-mails to Fr. Byron Miller who is the director of the Seelos Center in New Orleans. I know he is praying.
The last couple days I have just been sobbing over your words. Each time, I went to the Seelos website and prayed the prayers to Bl. Seelos (especially the one asking for a specific intention). Sobbing through the prayer and begging Bl. Seelos to heal Cate's heart...each time as soon as I finished the prayer, I truly felt a great peace wash over me, and I pray that God give that peace to you as well. I have faith in God's power, and in Fr. Seelos' intercession. He was so busy on earth, never stopped working...and I believe he is completely happy to be just as busy in heaven. I keep picturing him holding your daughter's head in his hands and stroking her face. He is RIGHT THERE WITH HER! I too have a first class relic, and use that in my prayers every day. You are right to cling to hope. And by the example of Bl. Seelos, in hard times I also find it helpful to try and have the joy of God in my heart. Bl. Seelos had an inner joy even in suffering, because God is joy...I believe that will help you. (I'm only saying this out of true concern for you, please don't take it the wrong way). One more thing continues to run through my mind as I pray for you...last week at Mass our pastor said repeatedly, "The Kingdom of God is at hand." You previously spoke of knocking on heaven's door...have faith that heaven's door is already open! God is with you!
Thank you so much for your faith because it has helped me and so many others. Keep fighting!

In Christ,
Jennifer Schmuck

Anonymous said...

We stand with you, feasting ONLY on HOPE and JOY! Amen! Amen! We shall not weary!!!

You all continue to show us how to USE and lean on this great faith of ours. I know that God will ask great things of us soon...sooner than we know. And while I know this is NOT about me, just know that we stand with you in our YES to Christ. Praises to the King.

Anonymous said...

I will be praying for your baby. God bless your whole family.
Jackie

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,
I compltetly affirm what you went through yesterday...hopelessness seemed to creep in. Only made worse by tragic news in my own immediate family. But your blog was a smack in the face to snap me out of it. I appreciate it more than you know. Now I can say what my husband says all the time..."it is what it is. Now let's move on." And praise God that I can move on in HOPE. Thank you for the reminder.
Love, Hugs, and Prayers,
Betsy, Trey, and Fenton
P.S. Baby Fen still smiles everytime I ask him if he is praying for Baby Cate.

Anonymous said...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUp7oxOLans&feature=related

As Fr. Drew always says - 'this is my new favorite Life Teen song' I hope you can access this. The song is Prince of Peace. The lyrics say it all He is all powerful. That other "guy" who is messing in your business is NOTHING. Hope is alive and eternal. Praying, praying... Lois G.
P.S. You cut off my Ella on the picture! Love you guys!!!

Anonymous said...

"Praise Jesus for He is good!" That is what i have heard since I was little and it is time to SMILE and be strong. Here is another quote that i feel strongly about.. "Without sufforing there could be no compassion" This goes along with faith as well as in life situations. If nobody ever struggled with their faith, how strong would they actually believe.
~still praying, won't stop!

♥♥♥

Anonymous said...

I ran across your blog this past week, from links from blog to blog - its amazing how this spiritual family has formed. I have a Cate of my own who is almost 5, and a baby boy who has a VSD, so I was drawn into your story immediately. I have been praying for Baby Cate and your family all week and devoted an hour of adoration and a rosary to her last night at seemingly the same time that you posted! I am so happy to see this morning that Hope is reigning, and the fight goes on. Go Team Cate - I will continue to pray for you all.

Beth in Kennesaw, GA

Anonymous said...

"It has shown us that God —Truth and Love in person—desired to suffer for us and with us. Bernard of Clairvaux coined the marvellous expression: Impassibilis est Deus, sed non incompassibilis 29—God cannot suffer, but he can suffer with."

God is on your side with your exhaustion and with comfort. The legions are fighting and your heart is made ready in the sight of His grace.

"For in hope we have been saved"
Romans 8:24

Soak in God's word, soak in his love and comfort. We are praying for you within your St. laurence community.

Spe Salvi!
God bless.
D.Stewart.

Anonymous said...

I am moved by your words of "hope" - you do not know me, I am a friend of Ragan & Virginia Richard - who asked me to pray for Baby Cate. I am praying now for our Lord's hope to be with your entire family and with all of us. He is Hope and He graciously shares it with us. Our hope is in the Lord...always.

Pulling for you all in Christ,

Nan Barfield
Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Anonymous said...

Does anyone out there have any contacts at AT&T Wireless Company? We are trying to see if we can get the Cantrell's phone bill waived for the month. If you have any information please contact us.... maureen@adoreworship.com 504 813 9517

Anonymous said...

In Jesus' name and by the power of the Blood He shed on the cross; I pray Lord God, that You will surround the Cantrell family with a mantle of Your protection and strength. I pray that Your warring angels will overtake the enemy and all of it's agents, casting them back to the abyss, never to surface again!
I pray Father, that right at this moment, as I type, as I pray, that the power of the Holy Spirit is pouring Your grace and Your mercy and peace upon the Cantrells and Your precious child Cate. No matter what anyone says or does, that their hope in You never fails!

Using the Sword of The Spirit, we take Your Mighty Sword, Your Word, Lord God and wield it into the enemy, sending him fleeing from us and the Cantrell family;

Sirach,2:1-6
1 My son, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials. 2 Be sincere of heart and steadfast, undisturbed in time of adversity. 3 Cling to Him, forsake Him not; thus your future will be great. 4 Accept whatever befalls you, in crushing misfortune be patient; 5 for in fire gold is tested, and worthy men in the crucible of humiliation. 6 Trust God and He will help you; make straight your ways and hope in Him.


My dear friends in Christ, Jesus' hope is in you! It is in Cate! It is in everyone of us and no matter what the enemy throws at us, the hope of Jesus Christ cannot and will not be defeated!

Our Steubenville On The Bayou conference is next weekend and the enemy has been hard at work attempting to derail our every step; but at every turn, God's hand is upon all who seek Him and seek to do His will and each time the enemy attempts to derail something, the Lord sees to it that everything we need falls into place! Praise God from whom all blessings flow! I just wanted to let you know that we know what spiritual warfare is and that we join with you and your family in using the spiritual weapons that God gives us to defend ourselves and send the enemy back to hell where he belongs!

Praise God! In Jesus' name I send my prayer to You in hopeful expectancy!

Peace in Christ
Ivy

Anonymous said...

Your team is strong and unrelenting... Your precious honesty and humility are strong forces against negativity.
HOPE REMAINS.
Love you all,
Alison B

Teresa and Shawn said...

I am praying for Cate and your family. My own daughter Clare (who is 3) had open heart surgery at 7 months old, six cardiac catherizations throughout her life, and a long road ahead of her. So I know a little about what it's like hanging out in the hospital. May God be with you during this time.

Unknown said...

We are still here...praying and hoping! May the Lord's peace and presence consume you.

Anonymous said...

Still PRAYING and HOPING. We love you so much.
marsha,brent,hunter & addie

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,
Early on in my life you made a difference whether you know it or not. My sister, Wendy, was on Core Team with you guys and I was able to experience your love and faith in our God first hand. To see the way two people who TRULY believe in Christ make it through rough patches like this always touches my heart. I have never met Baby Cate, but I pray for her and for you guys so often. When I read your blog yesterday, I drove straight to Baby Rachel's resting place and asked her to guide Baby Cate and her family away to safety, and in my heart I felt a great rest. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys all day. I don't know you, but I love you.

Natalie Q.

Teryn Hunt said...

praying, praying, praying for baby cate and your family!!

Teryn Hunt said...

praying, praying, praying for baby cate!!

Anonymous said...

Ali and Charlie,

I wanted to say that I am praying for your Cate. I haven't prayed for years and I'm not sure I am even doing it "right". I say this to let you know that tomorrow, I am going to church for the 1st time! I will pray for Cate as I have done every day. Your baby and your family is bringing so many people like me to God for the first time ever. I have asked everyone I know to pray for her! If ever I am a parent myself, I only hope I am as strong as you both!
Love from Houston!

Anonymous said...

Charlie,

Okay -- I just saw "Kung Fu Panda" with my kids (stick with me, here!) and it occurred to me as the final song played ("everybody was kung-fu fighting") that this is exactly what is happening spiritually right now -- the fight for hope that you spoke of. But your fight is not alone, and this army of people, some who know each other and many who don't, are united in the hope that is Christ-- all fighing agains the common enemy--and the common good of your Cate's life, the life of your family and the Faith, Hope and Love of everyone connected to this amazing story has gained its own tornado of spiritual kung-fu against the enemy of hope. Every body is "kung fu fighing" spiritually, not with fist or numb-chucks, but with "the Sword of the Spirit." It reminded me of this scripture:

"Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest...

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates... it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." (Heb 4:12-13)

The Word of God -- the Sword of the Spirit has uncovered your faith and laid it bare before the world through this blog. Now, the same sword penetrates the HEARTS of others... and it all began with your hearts and Cate's little heart. Who could know that a little girl could carry a sword and in the HEART of her Lord, inspire her father to slay the enemy of hope by uncovering his own heart before others, showing the world that faith is not easy, but it is real. Hope is not wishing the world were a better place. Hope is placing trust (fides) in Our Lord, knowing that after the storm, the Son will shine on all our hearts, and the same Son that died and descended into darkness indeed to bring light and life.

Blessed are you who have not seen, yet still believe. This is HOPE. Blessed are you, Charlie and Ali. And blessed are we who can make this journey of hope with you. May Christ, who uncovers our hearts, find ours beating with the love that truly satisfies.

--Brian B.

Julie said...

Dear Charlie & Ali,

As a mother of two little boys, my heart breaks for you; as a Catholic, I admire your steadfast faith and thank you for sharing it with us. How often we fail to acknowledge the evil among us, only to fall prey to it. You, your precious little Cate, and all those who are fighting so hard for her are in our prayers.

Through your pure surrender, may the God of HOPE protect you, and each of us, when the dark one seeks our weak spots.

With Christ's love,

Julie & family
(no one you know in Rock Hill, SC)

Lisa Sweet said...

You do not know me or my family. We are the Sweet family from New Hampshire (I see references to Franciscan University and Steubenville--our oldest daughter just finished her freshman year there, praise be to God--what a phenomenal place!) I was involved with a small deliverance ministry a few years ago, and everything you have posted was right on target. Rebuke those spirits, send them to the foot of the cross for Our Lord's judgment and put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-18). Amen! We will be praying for you all, esp. sweet baby Cate.

BTW, I have a rather lengthy (and thorough) deliverance prayer, if you feel you should need it. You may email me privately and I will send it to you lsweet65@msn.com

God bless.
Scott and Lisa Sweet and family

Anonymous said...

"I was sure by now, God, that you would have reached down and wiped our tears away, stepped in and saved the day. But once again I say amen and it's still raining as the thunder rolls I barely hear you whisper through the rain "I'm with you"!"

I have been reading your blogs from day one but have not had the courage to write yet. After reading your blog today I realized that maybe it was the evil one who was convincing me that since I don't have the words or understanding of what you are going through that I have no right to write to you and Ali. The Lord has moved my heart to just let you know that Cate is always on my mind and I am always praying for her. It feels as though EVERY time I turn on my radio this song comes on and my eyes fill with tears. Our Lord is near! Charlie, you and Ali's love for Him has taught me so much!I love you both so very much!

In Him,
Katie Tillman

Anonymous said...

We've never been formally introduced, but I wanted you to know what a wonderful influence you were on my daughters when you were at St. Laurence. But more importantly, I wanted to let you know that I have been praying and will continue to pray for the healing of your precious baby Cate. My prayers continue for all of you.

Ella Palmieri
St. Laurence Parishoner

Anonymous said...

Charlie,
I learned of Baby Cate's blog from my daughter through facebook. Your name sounded so familiar, then I remembered that I heard you speak when I was a chaperone at Steubenville on the Bayou last year. I am contacting our youth group to join in prayer for you, Ali, Baby Cate and your whole family. We will also join in prayer against the "hope stealer." Ya'll are in my thoughts and prayers constantly. Lisa Templet

Rachael said...

AMEN!!!! PREACH IT BROTHER!!!!!!

Hope lives!!!!!!!!

praying for ya'll loads and loads!!!

Anonymous said...

Our friends on a barge in France, friends in New Jersey, California,Texas, Louisiana, Alabama are all praying for the Cantrells, especially Baby Cate.We have asked that she be remembered at our church-LaMemorial United Methodist Church in Opelousas, La. to remember her in their prayers. We will be Rev. Cliff and Amy Wright tomorrow and get him busy in Baton Rouge and in Nashville, TN where they will be living as of July 1, 2008. We are all part of your extended family. Love and kisses to our youngest family member.

Ramsey Days said...

I am Matt Smith's older sister, and he and Candyce have asked for prayers for you and your family, esp. for Cate's strength to get through this time...you are in my prayers, and I will be checking back soon to see how things are going.

God Bless your whole family
Katie and family

Anonymous said...

I'm proud of you Charlie and Ali. You stand up to the force that yanks at all of us, damn him! I"m proud to know you, to call you my friends. I've asked so many people to pray, that there was some shame that came with asking people that I don't even know to pray for our girl. You two make me proud to be a part of this fight.
Thank You! And I thank Our Loving Savior for the Healing that is occuring at this moment.
Love and Gratitude
Dr. Sandra

Barbara said...

Saint Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host -
by the Divine Power of God -
cast into hell, satan and all the evil spirits,
who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.

I remembered Cate at Mass this morning, and I will remember her again tomorrow in front of the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Anonymous said...

Worry is the misuse of your imagination planted by the devil when he senses your weakness. Hope is one of three, that's right three, of God's virtues, that he installed in each of us. It is inherently present your entire life and can be called upon by will. When you reach down in your soul for that hope Charlie, only God himself delivers. The Spielmanns are praying for you all tonight.

Timberly said...

Saint Micheal the Archangel defend this worthy family against the wickedness and snares of the devil and all his followers. God please send forth an army of angels to protect their hope. Amen

NET Ireland said...

AMEN Brother!!! way to preach the truth Charlie. Mean old hairy legs has nothing on you!! He has LOST the battle and cannot compete w/ the Army of God that Baby Cate has inspired!!
I am crying I am so inspired!! I am in Singapore airport on my way home, I had 2 masses said for Cate and your Family yesterday in Australia and there are 2 Canadian guys riding there bikes from Perth to Sydney for WYD offering up all the pain for Baby Cate!! (thats like riding across the entire country). Continueing to pray and fight the good fight!!
love, the Fradd Family

Anonymous said...

My sister-in-law randomly showed me this verse a while back when going through a hard time and ever since I have kept it close to my heart.
John 16:33b "In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world."
Everytime I feel defeated I read this verse and know no matter what happens, my God has already defeated evil. This is what gives me hope and I pray your family is overwelmed by this wonderful gift of hope God gives us. Stay strong and know He is with you always.
Emily

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,

I have been reading Baby Cate's blog for a while. I find myself waking up in the middle of the night and coming to my computer to see if there's an update. While I'm awake, I pray for you, Ali, Baby Cate and the rest of your exhausted family. I have not posted any comment until today. It's amazing how God sends us messages when we seem to need it most.

Today's Liturgy:

Jesus tells the Twelve (and us) that acknowledging him & doing his work will not be easy. This mission ought not be undertaken lightly because there will be opposition. Neither, however, ought the mission be undertaken with trepidation, because God does not abandon us. Forces will oppose this mission, but a promise of divine care with sustain us. Faithful disciples will be named in eternity.

From the Living Liturgy. 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2008.

Good luck and God Bless You All,
Love,
Kathy Mathews
St Peter's Church/Carencro
I was involved with Core Teen, Rise and Steubinville South so Charlie is no stranger.

Tricia said...

I have found your blog by way of a friend in our Rosary group (many of them went to Stubenville). I've spent the last 20 minutes catching myself up on your story. My family will be praying for your family, for strong Baby Cate, for hope, and against the destroyer of hope.

Anonymous said...

Standing in the gap for you guys. Stay strong--- we're all a part of "Team Cate"

Praise Him,
Liz