I was rooting for Croatia to win the World Cup. I am writing this the Friday before Sunday’s big game. Why Croatia? I admire their coach, Zlatko Dalic; he is a man of devout faith. According to CNA, he recently spoke on Croatian Catholic radio, saying: “Everything I have done in my life and in my professional career I owe to my faith, and I am grateful to my Lord. I can be very happy with my life,” Dalic said, adding that “without strong faith and that motivation, it would be very difficult to achieve it. When a man loses any hope, then he must depend on our merciful God and on our faith. I always carry a rosary with me and when I feel that I am going through a difficult time I put my hand in my pocket, I cling to it and then everything is easier.” I hope he had his rosary during the big game. I hope you have your rosary with you as well. It is a great reminder of God’s care and Our Lady’s care for us. There is the crucifix that shouts of God’s great love for us. We can quietly and secretly pray the beads without calling attention to ourselves. Or on those moments when we empty our pockets the rosary gives a great witness to our faith. Life without faith is empty. I hope Croatia won but even more so I hope you too will carry your rosary . Live by your faith. Love Fr. Tom