The Associated Press: Cuba makes Good Friday a holiday after papal trip: Cuba has honored an appeal by Pope Benedict XVI and declared next week's Good Friday a holiday for the first time since the early days following the island's 1959 Revolution, though a decision on whether the move will be permanent will have to wait.
The Communist government said in a communique Saturday that the decision was made in light of the success of Benedict's "transcendental visit" to the country, which wrapped up Wednesday. It said the Council of Ministers, Cuba's supreme governing body, will decide later whether to make the holiday permanent.
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Our hearts are made for joy
Message for the 27th World Youth DayBENEDICT: The memory of our meeting in Madrid last August remains close to my heart. It was a time of extraordinary grace when God showered his blessings on the young people gathered from all over the world. I give thanks to God for all the fruits which that event bore, fruits which will surely multiply for young people and their communities in the future. Now we are looking forward to our next meeting in Rio de Janeiro in 2013.
Brideshead and Baseball
Brideshead and BaseballWOOD: In his novel Brideshead Revisited, Evelyn Waugh places us in the midst of a breakfast conversation at Brideshead manor between Father Phipps, of an English monastery, who has come to say Sunday Mass, and Sebastian Flyte and Charles Ryder, two of the book’s main characters. Ryder tells us that the priest displayed “an interest in county cricket which he obstinately believed us to share.” Sebastian, fearing a lengthy discourse on the subject, tells Father Phipps, “You know, Father, Charles and I simply don’t know about cricket.” The cleric is undeterred.
The Gospel can be proclaimed only by those who have truly experienced it. So this Holy Week, go up to Jerusalem with Jesus...
To the cross and the empty tombGOMEZ: I’ve had an intense but amazing week. Our archdiocesan Religious Education Congress was a big success.
I celebrated two Masses for a total of 16,000 young people. I took part in an on-line “chat” with young Catholics. I saw many old friends and met many new friends from all across the country. I prayed and learned a lot and I came away inspired.
For me, this Congress shows the vitality of the Church in our country. There was such passion and energy! I’m grateful to know so many men and women, young and old, from every nationality — all dedicated to Jesus Christ and the mission of his Catholic Church.
I celebrated two Masses for a total of 16,000 young people. I took part in an on-line “chat” with young Catholics. I saw many old friends and met many new friends from all across the country. I prayed and learned a lot and I came away inspired.
For me, this Congress shows the vitality of the Church in our country. There was such passion and energy! I’m grateful to know so many men and women, young and old, from every nationality — all dedicated to Jesus Christ and the mission of his Catholic Church.
Baltimore Catholic school to name community center after Bill Cosby and his wife Camille...
Baltimore Catholic school to name community center after Bill and Camille Cosby - Baltimore Sun: A historic Baltimore Catholic school will name its community center in honor of Bill and Camille Cosby, the biggest donors in the school's 184-year history and fierce champions of education, the school announced Friday.
St. Frances Academy, which serves 162 primarily low-income high school students, will host the comedian, his wife and their relatives in a ceremony at the St. Frances Community Center on April 20.
St. Frances Academy, which serves 162 primarily low-income high school students, will host the comedian, his wife and their relatives in a ceremony at the St. Frances Community Center on April 20.
Why Earth-like planets may be rare in the universe...
Life in the Balance – And why Earth-like planets may be rare | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I am not a geologist or astronomer. But a number of things about our universe cause me, as a Christian and amateur theologian, to once again thank God for the incredible and rare conditions he maintains on this earth, so that we can live. Let me explain. While most people, including most scientists, presume that there may be billions of inhabitable planets out there a lot like earth, there is another theory base (called “rare earth theory”) that is dubious of such a high number.
The Catholic Interpretation of Sacred Scripture
The Sacred Page: Catholic Interpretation of ScriptureBERGSMA: Self-conscious reflection on the proper methods of interpretation of Scripture began already with the early Church Fathers. One of the most definitive patristic statements on interpretation is St. Augustine’s De Doctrina Christiana, “On Christian Doctrine.” While its title might lead the modern reader to expect a treatment of Church dogma in systematic form, De Doctrina is in fact a handbook for the interpretation of Scripture. This fact in itself is significant: for Augustine and the other fathers, Christian doctrine was the interpretation of Scripture. This truth continues to be affirmed by the Second Vatican Council: “the ‘study of the sacred page’ should be the very soul of theology”, and by Pope Benedict XVI: “Dogma is by definition nothing other than an interpretation of Scripture”.
Cardinal Dolan says HHS mandate fight 'tough' but winnable
Cardinal Dolan says HHS mandate fight 'tough' but winnable :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York says that although opponents of the federal contraception mandate face a difficult struggle, religious groups can achieve victory through persistence.
“We have to be very vigorous in insisting that this is not about contraception. It’s about religious freedom,” said the cardinal, who is president of the U.S. bishops’ conference.
He said the debate is a “tough battle” because proponents of the coverage mandate have chosen an issue they know the Catholic Church is “not very popular on.”
“We have to be very vigorous in insisting that this is not about contraception. It’s about religious freedom,” said the cardinal, who is president of the U.S. bishops’ conference.
He said the debate is a “tough battle” because proponents of the coverage mandate have chosen an issue they know the Catholic Church is “not very popular on.”
Friday, March 30, 2012
I am a lay Catholic, which means I am very, very dangerous...
I am a lay Catholic, which means I am very, very dangerous. � TeachCatholic.comBURDICK: I am, in every sense of the celestial Body of Christ, nobody. I’ve been writing a Christian blog for two years and my only readers are the same 10 people that accidentally click on my facebook links while attempting to play Words with Friends or Farmville. I published a book on the spirituality of Teaching and it has sold a whopping seven copies since last November (five I bought to give out as gifts and my Aunt bought the other two). I taught a class on Apologetics in my own parish and only four people showed up to each of the six sessions.
You simply must read Archbishop Chaput's new eBook...
Kathryn Jean Lopez | Headline BistroLOPEZ: Good stewardship of both our republic and souls demands a reading of A Heart on Fire, which goes on to warn, “Nothing guarantees that America’s experiment in religious freedom, as we traditionally know it, will survive here in the United States, let alone serve as a model for other countries in the future.”
Archbishop Chaput paints an alarming portrait of a present and future very different from the America that Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville once famously saw as a country whose “founders saw religious faith as something separate from government but vital to the nation’s survival” – the “indispensible supports” that President Washington spoke of in his Farewell Address.
Archbishop Chaput paints an alarming portrait of a present and future very different from the America that Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville once famously saw as a country whose “founders saw religious faith as something separate from government but vital to the nation’s survival” – the “indispensible supports” that President Washington spoke of in his Farewell Address.
Beginning with his January 20 attack on the Catholic faithful, Obama increasingly comes across as devious and dishonest...
Not-So-Smooth Operator - WSJ.comNOONAN: Something's happening to President Obama's relationship with those who are inclined not to like his policies. They are now inclined not to like him. His supporters would say, "Nothing new there," but actually I think there is. I'm referring to the broad, stable, nonradical, non-birther right. Among them the level of dislike for the president has ratcheted up sharply the past few months.
It's not due to the election, and it's not because the Republican candidates are so compelling and making such brilliant cases against him. That, actually, isn't happening.
It's not due to the election, and it's not because the Republican candidates are so compelling and making such brilliant cases against him. That, actually, isn't happening.
A chronology of the final week of Jesus' life...
The final week of Jesus' life, a chronology | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: As the Church prepares to enter into Holy Week, we do well to consider the final week of Jesus’ life, from Friday to Friday. In a later post, we will look at the last twenty-four hours (from the Last Supper to the death of Jesus on the Cross) in greater detail.
It will be helpful to review the Gospel accounts given by Sts. Mark and John, the two who offer the most explicit chronology of Holy Week. See Mark 11:1 – 15:37 and also John 11:54 – 19:30.
It will be helpful to review the Gospel accounts given by Sts. Mark and John, the two who offer the most explicit chronology of Holy Week. See Mark 11:1 – 15:37 and also John 11:54 – 19:30.
Top 10 signs you may have misinterpreted the "call to holiness"...
Contest inside | IgnitumTodayTOMANEK: You know when you may have taken the “call to holiness” a bit overboard because... you not only kiss the ground when you land in a new country, but you also run out of the terminal and boldly claim that country Christ’s while thrusting a sword into the ground.
Resurrection power for parents
Resurrection power for parents - The Arlington Catholic HeraldCURTIS: When Jesus healed, the blind could see, the lame could walk, the possessed found peace. We can do that too, trusting in Him to guide our sight, our steps and our sanity as we move forward with our lives. For mothers who need a fresh start, I want to encourage you to focus on the path in front of you and not to be crippled by your past. Our children at some point will have to deal with the fact that their parents were not perfect. It will be a test by which God will help them grow — if they let Him.
Surrender and Strength
Surrender and Strength : The Integrated Catholic LifeHAIN: What is the connection between surrender and strength? Surrendering to Christ and putting His will before my own for the first time over six years ago was the very moment I felt stronger than any other time in my life. The strength of the Lord flowed through me, energized me, gave me courage and put me on the path to a life of discipleship filled with meaning. But, my soul’s conversion would not have been possible without absolute trust in Him and the recognition that I had to give up control and experience the death of my old self. Even more importantly, I have come to recognize that my surrender and conversion is an ongoing process and not a one time event.
Meet Alaska’s Catholic bloggers: Mindy Goorchenko, Joseph Koss, and Tiffany Borges...
Catholic Anchor Online � Alaska’s Catholic bloggers inspired by pope: As his college newspaper grew increasingly leftist, then-student Joseph Koss helped launch a campus newspaper with a conservative perspective. Fast-forward five years through law school, a revival of his faith and a move from the Detroit metro area to the Kenai Peninsula in late 2009, and Koss was struck by the realization that again he’d lost his voice. This time he launched a blog, Defend Us in Battle.
St. Ignatius Loyola, the traumatized soldier who found healing and became a saint...
The Dawn PatrolEDEN: In the past day, two male friends contacted me independently of one another, to tell me how affected they were by chapter 1 of My Peace I Give You, which begins with a look at how St. Ignatius Loyola's spiritual wisdom was informed by his life experiences. Both men told me that they had never considered the fact that Ignatius, who was severely wounded during his days as a soldier, was a trauma survivor.
This is the best place on the planet to watch a movie...
Amazing Floating Cinema in Thailand: Archipelago Cinema, an auditorium raft designed to float on the sea, premiered at the inaugural edition of the Film on the Rocks Yao Noi Festival, curated by Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Tilda Swinton. The Festival, which took place from 9th-12th of March 2012, is set to become an annual meeting place for art and film.
The final night of the first Film on the Rocks Yao Noi took place on Archipelago Cinema, designed by German-born and Beijing-based architect Ole Scheeren. Guests were taken by boat through the darkness of the sea to arrive on a glowing raft in the middle of the quiet waters of Nai Pi Lae lagoon on Kudu Island. Surrounded by a dramatic landscape of towering rocks emerging from the ocean, the audience experienced an atmospheric convergence of nature and cinematic narratives – primordial notions of light, sound and stories suspended in the darkness between sea and sky.
The final night of the first Film on the Rocks Yao Noi took place on Archipelago Cinema, designed by German-born and Beijing-based architect Ole Scheeren. Guests were taken by boat through the darkness of the sea to arrive on a glowing raft in the middle of the quiet waters of Nai Pi Lae lagoon on Kudu Island. Surrounded by a dramatic landscape of towering rocks emerging from the ocean, the audience experienced an atmospheric convergence of nature and cinematic narratives – primordial notions of light, sound and stories suspended in the darkness between sea and sky.
Sandro Magister: Here We Go Again
Magister: Here We Go Again The Chant Caf�TUCKER: Sandro Magister, who might be a wonderful journalist in some ways but who knows absolutely nothing about music and so he becomes vulnerable to being manipulated by his blustering contacts in the Vatican, is at it again, slamming the director of the Sistine Chapel choir. You are welcome to read his rant.
But notice this sentence: "It is not enough, in fact, that the selection of composers and songs is today more in line with the desires of the pope."
Hold on a minute there buddy. What it means is that the SisChap choir has embraced B16's musical desires. And that's not enough for Magister?
But notice this sentence: "It is not enough, in fact, that the selection of composers and songs is today more in line with the desires of the pope."
Hold on a minute there buddy. What it means is that the SisChap choir has embraced B16's musical desires. And that's not enough for Magister?
Anna Maria College pulls commencement invitation for Victoria Kennedy, pro-abortion widow of Ted Kennedy...
Worcester Telegram & Gazette - telegram.com - Anna Maria College pulls Victoria Kennedy graduation invite: Anna Maria College has withdrawn its invitation to Victoria Reggie Kennedy to speak at its commencement this spring after Bishop Robert J. McManus raised concerns with the school about the positions taken by the widow of former U.S. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., on abortion, gay marriage, contraception, and other social issues of interest to the Roman Catholic Church.
U.S. Catholics observe day of fasting and prayer for religious freedom
Religious Freedom — Why and How to Fast — A Family Guide : The Integrated Catholic Life: The first reason to fast is because that is what God’s people have historically done before a decision, grave situation or problem before them. In the Old Testament, Queen Esther fasted before approaching her husband, the king, when she was going to reveal that Haman, the king’s advisor, had plans to annihilate the Jewish people.
There was something about the twentieth century, something awful. Did Pope Leo XIII have the answer?
There was something about the 20th Century, something awful. Did Pope Leo have the answer? | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: What are we to make of the 20th Century? Like any period it is marked with its glories and its horrors. In his now classic work Modern Times, historian Paul Johnson gives a sober assessment of the 20th century and estimates, many think conservatively, that 100 million died in war and for ideological reasons in that violent century. Perhaps no century can be said to have been bloodier.
Some Anglican Difficulties
Some Anglican Difficulties | Standing on my HeadLONGENECKER: When I lived in England Anglicans almost universally referred to the Catholic Church as “the Roman Catholic Church.” They would emphasize the word “Roman”. The subtext was, “We Anglicans are Catholics too you know. It’s just that we’re not ‘Roman’ Catholics.”
Very often this was accompanied by a branch of the Dan Brown school of church history in which Christianity came to Britain directly by Joseph of Arimathea. They would explain that he founded the Celtic Church which was independent of “Roman hierarchical authority.” This Celtic Church was in tune with nature, valued women’s ministry, was democratic and well, pretty much the way Anglicanism is today…” Then at the Synod of Whitby the Roman Catholic Church began to assert it’s harsh, foreign and hierarchical authority. At the Reformation the true, unsullied, English Catholicism was restored. Unfortunately there is virtually no evidence for this theory, but they cling to it still in one form or another.
Very often this was accompanied by a branch of the Dan Brown school of church history in which Christianity came to Britain directly by Joseph of Arimathea. They would explain that he founded the Celtic Church which was independent of “Roman hierarchical authority.” This Celtic Church was in tune with nature, valued women’s ministry, was democratic and well, pretty much the way Anglicanism is today…” Then at the Synod of Whitby the Roman Catholic Church began to assert it’s harsh, foreign and hierarchical authority. At the Reformation the true, unsullied, English Catholicism was restored. Unfortunately there is virtually no evidence for this theory, but they cling to it still in one form or another.
Video: Andrew Dickey is good at riding a bicycle. I mean, REALLY good...
Andrew Dickey- Black Bike vol. 1 - YouTube: Andrew Dickey riding trials in Melbourne, Australia in early 2012. Thanks to Gemma and Paul for additional filming.
The National Catholic Reporter vs. the Catholic Church
National Catholic Reporter Vs. Catholic Church | Catholic LaneDONOHUE: It’s been obvious for a long time, but now it is official: the National Catholic Reporter rejects the teachings of the Catholic Church on sexuality. In an editorial titled, “NCR Endorses Call for a New Sexual Ethic,” it supports retired Australian Bishop Geoffrey Robinson’s plea for the Church to change its teachings on sexuality.
Bishop Robinson wrote a book a few years ago called Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church. Here is what the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference said about it in 2010: “Catholics believe that the Church, founded by Christ, is endowed by him with a teaching office which endures through time. This is why the Church’s Magisterium teaches the truth authoritatively in the name of Christ. The book casts doubt upon these teachings. This leads in turn to the questioning of Catholic teaching on, among other things, the nature of Tradition, the inspiration of the Holy Scripture, the infallibility of the Councils and the Pope, the authority of the Creeds, the nature of the ministerial priesthood and central elements of the Church’s moral teachings.”
Bishop Robinson wrote a book a few years ago called Confronting Power and Sex in the Catholic Church. Here is what the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference said about it in 2010: “Catholics believe that the Church, founded by Christ, is endowed by him with a teaching office which endures through time. This is why the Church’s Magisterium teaches the truth authoritatively in the name of Christ. The book casts doubt upon these teachings. This leads in turn to the questioning of Catholic teaching on, among other things, the nature of Tradition, the inspiration of the Holy Scripture, the infallibility of the Councils and the Pope, the authority of the Creeds, the nature of the ministerial priesthood and central elements of the Church’s moral teachings.”
Did the Greek Old Testament Include the Catholic Deuterocanon?
Shameless Popery: Did the Greek Old Testament Include the Catholic Deuterocanon?HESCHMEYER: A reader e-mailed to ask about the use of the Septuagint (or LXX), the Greek version of the Old Testament used by the Jews at the time of Christ, and by the early Christians. This reader had encountered Protestants claiming that while the early Church used the LXX, this didn't include the Deuterocanon.
Catechesis, Conversion, and the Reason For the Hope Within You
Catechesis, Conversion, and the Reason For the Hope Within YouBECKWITH: Because it was five years ago this week that my wife, Frankie, and I decided to seek full communion with the Catholic Church, I have been reflecting on my own journey and the degree to which my own misunderstanding (and subsequent understanding) of Catholicism and its teachings were instrumental in both my departure to Evangelicalism in my teens and my return to the Church at forty-six.
Not Sacred Music, but Sounds of Attack
Not Sacred Music, but Sounds of AttackMAGISTER: The last bastion in Rome of the grand liturgical music of the Latin Church, built on the pillars of Gregorian chant and the polyphony of Pierluigi da Palestrina, is in danger of collapsing at any moment.
This bastion is the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music, the musical conservatory of the Holy See, instituted by Pius X a century ago to set the right course for sacred music in the churches all over the world.
This bastion is the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music, the musical conservatory of the Holy See, instituted by Pius X a century ago to set the right course for sacred music in the churches all over the world.
Top 5 Pitfalls for New Converts
Top 5 Pitfalls for New Converts | Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: When I came into communion with the Church five years ago, wise Catholics warned me that the road might get rocky in the years ahead. They reminded me that my conversion did not end, but only began, that night at Easter Vigil. They counseled me to prepare to be tested over and over again as I lived my life as a Catholic.
Pro-Life Work At Home
Pro-Life Work At Home | Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: Nothing is more important than family. Nothing, nothing, nothing. Just ask someone who wants to be home with her kids, but has to work. There is no work, charitable or for-profit, that is more important than being there for your kids and spouse. If everyone devoted themselves to family, then most of the problems that pro-lifers work to solve would not exist in the first place.
Pope Benedict's prayer intentions for April
VIS news - Holy See Press Office: BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR APRIL: Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for April is: "That many young people may hear the call of Christ and follow Him in the priesthood and religious life".
His mission intention is: "That the risen Christ may be a sign of certain hope for the men and women of the African continent".
His mission intention is: "That the risen Christ may be a sign of certain hope for the men and women of the African continent".
Pope Benedict's gentle debunking of clericalism
Benedict's gentle debunk of clericalism | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Pope Benedict XVI's diplomatic high-wire act in Havana, pressing the case for religious freedom but avoiding direct clash with the Castro regime, was the main news flash out of his March 23-28 trip to Mexico and Cuba. Yet there was another leitmotif to the outing, more subtle but arguably more decisive for the church across Latin America.
Not to put too fine a point on it, the pope offered a gentle, yet unmistakable, debunking of clericalism. His focus seemed to be the gradual reshaping of ecclesial culture, not sexy short-term headlines, which puts it squarely into Benedict's wheelhouse.
Not to put too fine a point on it, the pope offered a gentle, yet unmistakable, debunking of clericalism. His focus seemed to be the gradual reshaping of ecclesial culture, not sexy short-term headlines, which puts it squarely into Benedict's wheelhouse.
Calling him a "class act", Cardinal Dolan welcomes Tim Tebow to New York
Archbishop of New York welcomes Tim Tebow to Jets | NJ.com: Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, is pleased that the Jets traded for Tim Tebow. The young quarterback is not a member of the Catholic church, but Dolan said he appreciates Tebow's strong Christian beliefs.
“I’m kinda happy about (Tebow coming to the New York area)," Dolan said on his weekly show on SiriusXM Radio's The Catholic Channel. "He’s a class act. I’ve followed him with great interest, and I highly respect him for his unabashedly Christian values. And I’ve never found it put-offish or arrogant. It’s just very gentle and sincere.”
“I’m kinda happy about (Tebow coming to the New York area)," Dolan said on his weekly show on SiriusXM Radio's The Catholic Channel. "He’s a class act. I’ve followed him with great interest, and I highly respect him for his unabashedly Christian values. And I’ve never found it put-offish or arrogant. It’s just very gentle and sincere.”
Vatican confirms excommunication of breakaway Ukrainian clergy
Vatican confirms condemnation of breakaway Ukrainian clergy :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Vatican's doctrinal office has confirmed the excommunication of four priests expelled from the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, who asserted themselves as rivals to its bishops.
“These priests continue to challenge ecclesiastical authority, causing moral and spiritual damage, not only to the Basilian Order of St. Josaphat and the Greek-Catholic Ukrainian Church, but also to this Apostolic See and the Catholic Church as a whole,” the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith said March 29.
“These priests continue to challenge ecclesiastical authority, causing moral and spiritual damage, not only to the Basilian Order of St. Josaphat and the Greek-Catholic Ukrainian Church, but also to this Apostolic See and the Catholic Church as a whole,” the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith said March 29.
Analysis: Chief Justice Roberts may cast the deciding healthcare vote...
Analysis: Chief Justice Roberts may cast deciding healthcare vote | Reuters: During three days of historic healthcare arguments at the Supreme Court, Chief Justice John Roberts presided with a steady calm and folksy charm.
From his center seat on the nine-member bench, Roberts gently mediated as colleagues interrupted one another's questions this week. He offered a break in arguments on Tuesday so spectators in the packed courtroom could briefly stand and stretch, and then at the end of that Day Two, warmly told lawyers, "Counsel, we'll see you tomorrow."
From his center seat on the nine-member bench, Roberts gently mediated as colleagues interrupted one another's questions this week. He offered a break in arguments on Tuesday so spectators in the packed courtroom could briefly stand and stretch, and then at the end of that Day Two, warmly told lawyers, "Counsel, we'll see you tomorrow."
'Mirror Mirror' is a visually stunning Snow White movie that blends sweetness with occasional rude humor...
SDG Reviews 'Mirror Mirror' | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: What’s the last movie you saw that created an imaginary world that was actually beautiful, bursting with color and beauty and inspiration? A world that reminded you of the feeling you had as a child the first time you saw Dorothy open that door on the Technicolor world of Oz? A world you would actually like to enter and walk around in?
The 1940 US Census is Coming
The 1940 US Census is Coming | God and the MachineMCDONALD: Until I got an Ancestry.com account for my mom, I was fairly tepid on the subject of genealogy. She had done a fair bit of shoe-leather genealogy, finding the usual array of birth and death certificates, marriage licences, arrest reports, trial transcripts, and … well, let’s just leave that there.
Anyway, Ancestry is an amazing piece of work, placing a staggering amount of data at your fingertips. Dig a little bit, and suddenly people start popping up all over the place. After a few months, both my wife and myself had documented our main family lines back to their arrival in America in the 17th century, and I was able to push one (the de Suttons) all the way back to the Norman invasion. It makes your head swim to be able to trace a line from yourself back to someone who waded ashore with William the Conqueror, even if was only the Royal Poodle Walker.
Anyway, Ancestry is an amazing piece of work, placing a staggering amount of data at your fingertips. Dig a little bit, and suddenly people start popping up all over the place. After a few months, both my wife and myself had documented our main family lines back to their arrival in America in the 17th century, and I was able to push one (the de Suttons) all the way back to the Norman invasion. It makes your head swim to be able to trace a line from yourself back to someone who waded ashore with William the Conqueror, even if was only the Royal Poodle Walker.
Critically acclaimed artist Li Tianbing, raised in China with its strict one-child policy, depicts the brothers and sisters he never had...
Li Tianbing: My imaginary siblings | Life and style | The Guardian: The only memento Li Tianbing has of his childhood is five photographs. Tattered now, black and white, slightly out of focus. He's lucky, he says, to have even those: cameras weren't plentiful in Guilin, southern China, when he was a small boy in the 1970s, a three-day, four-night train journey from Beijing. He saw one only rarely, when his father – a soldier in the People's Army propaganda unit – managed to borrow one. As Li's dad could come home for only one or two days each month, and as he didn't often manage to borrow a camera, five photos is what there are.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
The Top 10 Bible Passages About Penance...
Your List of Lenten Bible Verses on Penance ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: If you're like me, the commitments of Lent are becoming a bit more difficult. To keep your eyes on the prize, here are the Top Ten Bible verses on Penance. In Greek, we often find in Scripture the Greek term "metanoia" which is a deep "transformation of mind" of conformity to God. In Latin, we find "agite paenitentiam" or "do penance." Protestant commentators beginning with Martin Luther criticized this translation because they felt that it emphasized outward acts and not an inward transformation. The Church responded by arguing that "agite paenitentiam" or "do penance" is a perfectly sound interpretation because inward repentance always leads to an outward expression. Moreover, in secular texts "agere paenitentiam" often refers to simple inward remorse. Nevertheless, just as faith without works is dead, so also repentance without penance is dead.
Mark Driscoll and the Canon of Scripture
Shameless Popery: Mark Driscoll and the Canon of ScriptureHESCHMEYER: Popular Protestant pastor Mark Driscoll (of Mars Hill church) thinks we Catholics have too many books in our Bibles. That's no surprise; almost all Protestants think this. But thankfully, Driscoll takes the time to explain why he thinks this, which makes it easy to show where and how he's wrong. If you're not familiar, the Catholic Bible has seven more books than the Protestant Bible. So the question is: are Catholic Bibles too big? Or are Protestant Bibles too small?
The eternal power of your trivial acts of kindness...
Good and Evil: Analysis | IgnitumTodayGORMLEY: I remember a story I had heard at a retreat I attended some years ago. The speaker recounted an episode in her life that changed her forever. I have changed some details for anonymity’s sake.
This person, we will call her Mary, came from a family where value was placed on things like physical beauty, athleticism, etc. Mary for her part was a very talented gymnast. However one day she broke her leg. Because of this obviously she was out of the team for the duration of recovery. Because of all the pressure that came from such an environment and her own identification of self-worth being tied to her skills, she fell into a deep depression. Things got so bad one day she decided that she was worthless and it was time to call it quits on life. But before she took the deadly medication overdose she spotted a card addressed to her. It was a Get Well card from her teammates. In reading the card she broke down in tears and came to the realization that her life was more than her physical talents.
This person, we will call her Mary, came from a family where value was placed on things like physical beauty, athleticism, etc. Mary for her part was a very talented gymnast. However one day she broke her leg. Because of this obviously she was out of the team for the duration of recovery. Because of all the pressure that came from such an environment and her own identification of self-worth being tied to her skills, she fell into a deep depression. Things got so bad one day she decided that she was worthless and it was time to call it quits on life. But before she took the deadly medication overdose she spotted a card addressed to her. It was a Get Well card from her teammates. In reading the card she broke down in tears and came to the realization that her life was more than her physical talents.
With the Eyes of Faith
With the Eyes of Faith � Seek First the KingdomWUERL: In the highly acclaimed series Catholicism, Fr. Robert Barron, drawing on the patrimony of Christian art and architecture, suggests to his viewers that this magnificent depiction of Our Lord’s crucifixion by Matthias Grünewald is a picture of joy. He is right. With the eyes of faith we see the joy of the Son uniting his will to the will of the Father, we see the joy of the Father’s love in sacrificing the life of his Son for the love of the world and we feel a joy well up within our hearts as we come to the realization that this love shared between Father and Son is a love that includes each one of us.
The rise and fall of a great Catholic literary revival
The rise and fall of a great Catholic literary revivalSTIMPSON: At the turn of the last century, something in the literary world was afoot. And it was afoot on both sides of the English Channel. In both England and France, a group of writers were gaining fame and notoriety, not just for the quality of their work, but for its substance, a substance that had a decidedly Catholic flavor. Those writers, which included the likes of G.K. Chesterton, Paul Claudel, Gerard Manley Hopkins, Charles Péguy and Lionel Johnson, were a mix of converts and reverts, faithful Catholics and struggling Catholics. All, however, were writing in response to the conditions of their age. And all helped spur a Catholic literary revival that would eventually cross the Atlantic Ocean and endure for more than 50 years.
Rejoice! The bees are back in the Exsultet...
New Liturgical Movement: Of Bees, the Exsultet, a Paschal Candle (and Pius XII)TRIBE: Recently one of our priests sent in some photos with a brief note about a Paschal candle that he, himself, undertook to design for his parish. He commented to me that "in honor of the return of the bees to the Exsultet" he incorporated them into the design.
What he is referring to, of course, is the absence of the references to the bees in the former English translation of the Exsultet in the previous English edition of the OF Missal. They are back -- though they never left the Latin text itself of course.
What he is referring to, of course, is the absence of the references to the bees in the former English translation of the Exsultet in the previous English edition of the OF Missal. They are back -- though they never left the Latin text itself of course.
Former atheist promises encounter with God through saints' relics
John Allen’s outstanding talk on the world-wide war on Christians | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?: Father Carlos Martins never expected to be a priest, or to be touring North America to promote devotion to the saints through their sacred relics. For much of his life, he did not believe in God.
“I was raised in a very nominally Catholic family. We didn't go to church,” the 37-year-old priest told CNA on March 27. “The Catholic school that we went to was 'Catholic' in name only.”
“By the time I became an adult, aside from being a 'practical atheist,' I became an intellectual one as well. I thought it was impossible for God to exist, given the state of the world.”
“I was raised in a very nominally Catholic family. We didn't go to church,” the 37-year-old priest told CNA on March 27. “The Catholic school that we went to was 'Catholic' in name only.”
“By the time I became an adult, aside from being a 'practical atheist,' I became an intellectual one as well. I thought it was impossible for God to exist, given the state of the world.”
John Allen’s outstanding talk on the worldwide war on Christians...
John Allen’s outstanding talk on the world-wide war on Christians | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: In looking for video of the closing liturgy of L.A. Religious Ed Congress, I stumbled upon a talk, given by John Allen, about the worldwide war being waged on Christians. (While you listen, remember that even though this isn’t the topic of Mr. Allen’s talk, more people are being killed world-wide by abortion.) Do listen to this.
Prayer is a pilgrimage through difficult wilderness...
Beginning to Pray: Prayer: A Pilgrimage through Difficult WildernessLILLES: Is contemplation an uninteresting wilderness? Many religious who have dedicated their whole lives to prayer can speak like this, including authors like Thomas Merton. These kinds of expressions suggest those purgative experiences in prayer where our conversation with God takes on a kind of monotonous tone. It is like that part of an adventure where nothing seems to be happening and everything looks the same.
Did you see Cardinal Dolan on The O'Reilly Factor last night? If you missed it, here it is again...
Whispers in the Loggia: In Prime Time, The Dolan FactorPALMO: As his ongoing Neo-Porporato Tour -- and, even more, the Stateside bishops' ongoing battle for religious freedom amid the looming Federal contraceptive mandate -- wends on, earlier tonight the USCCB president, Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, took to the country's highest-rated program on cable news: Fox News' The O'Reilly Factor....
The Modern Amputation
The Modern AmputationESOLEN: A few years ago my family and I attended a Trinity Sunday Mass at a parish that isn’t our own. On the way over, we bet on whether at least one of the four hymns sung would have anything to do with the Trinity. My wife, who pegged the odds at precisely zero, turned out to be correct.
I expected that the priest would say something about the Trinity during his homily. He did, but I wish he hadn’t. All he said was that the Trinity was something that we could never understand – which is true enough, but not at all helpful. He did mention that the Trinity had something to do with love. In general, he left the congregation with the impression that the Trinity was one of those odd holdover doctrines that we believe, but aren’t really central to our worship.
I expected that the priest would say something about the Trinity during his homily. He did, but I wish he hadn’t. All he said was that the Trinity was something that we could never understand – which is true enough, but not at all helpful. He did mention that the Trinity had something to do with love. In general, he left the congregation with the impression that the Trinity was one of those odd holdover doctrines that we believe, but aren’t really central to our worship.
What Else Do Pro-Lifers Do?
What Else Do Pro-Lifers Do? | Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: It’s a good thing I have a lot of other friends on Facebook. Because most of my friends are pro-life in the traditional (read: useful) way, and let me tell you, they are busy. It’s not that they brag—it’s just that their status updates portray a gorgeous and incredibly varied picture of the pro-life movement, one which includes trying to save unborn lives, but which extends far, far beyond that.
The idea of Confession was repellent to me as a Protestant. But the actual experience of Confession has been, by far, the best surprise of my new Catholic faith...
just showing up: ReconciliationHELDT: Sacraments are real. We receive real graces through them because, well, this is how Jesus established His Church and how God designed things to work. Even if we can't understand. We need to seek forgiveness from and reconciliation with our Lord, and one another, and Jesus decided to give His Church an important role in that.
And since that day in the confessional a few weeks ago, I kid you not, God has given me an immense measure of extra strength to love my kids. To be patient. To start each day with a new slate. God is working miracles in my heart through His Sacraments, and I am all kinds of amazed and shocked by that.
And since that day in the confessional a few weeks ago, I kid you not, God has given me an immense measure of extra strength to love my kids. To be patient. To start each day with a new slate. God is working miracles in my heart through His Sacraments, and I am all kinds of amazed and shocked by that.
The Church made some changes to the Triduum liturgies this year. Here are a few you might notice...
ADAM'S ALE: HOW COME I DON'T REMEMBER IT BEING THAT WAY: TRIDUUMVALENCHECK: Interestingly nobody made a peep that there was going to be rubrical changes in the Mass when everybody was either cheering or bemoaning the new Mass translation. There are quite a few that will hit us during the Triduum. The savvy Catholic (or the one not deeply in prayer) will notice a few changes (assuming that your priest noticed that there are, in fact, changes in what we are to do.)
Most are pretty innocuous. There are a few you might pick up on however.
Most are pretty innocuous. There are a few you might pick up on however.
The human brokenness found within 'October Baby'
Truth & CharitySCIBA: Over the last couple of weeks, my wife has been suggesting that we rent the movie Courageous, which after seeing the preview, we both agreed would be a good flick. In spite of this, I’ve put off renting it because, while the theme story may be encouraging or even inspiring, the format of similar films made by the same group (Facing the Giants, Fireproof) is rather formulaic and in such a way that doesn’t exactly gel with Catholicism – Main character conflict, wisdom from an elder, main character is saved/comes back to Jesus, everything works out, everybody else gets saved. Since one of the main goals for these movies seems to be surface-level evangelization, I don’t get much from them, spiritually speaking.
The 5 Most Colorful Cities In The World
The Most Colorful Cities In The World | All That Is Interesting: Riomaggiore is a scenic seaside town in Italy whose origins date back to the 8th century. It is believed that the early inhabitants of the Vara Valley settled in the ridges in search of a milder climate so that they could raise grapevines and olive-trees without the fear of pirate raids.
Why Women Can Be Protestant Ministers
Why Women Can Be Protestant Ministers | Standing on my HeadLONGENECKER: Ordain women if you like. We don’t mind. But don’t be offended when we point out that (in case there is any doubt in your mind) it is not a valid Catholic ordination. Why does this upset non Catholics? They knew it wasn’t a Catholic ordination to start with. What it actually is, and what those ordinations consist of and what they mean we don’t presume to say. It’s up to the non-Catholics to say what they mean. All we are saying is that they’re not Catholic.
The Supreme Court and Obamacare: What happens next
Supreme Court and Obamacare: What happens next - The Washington Post: The Supreme Court likely will decide whether the Obama administration’s signature legislative accomplishment is unconstitutional within 48 hours. But aside from the nine justices and a handful of law clerks, none of us will know what that decision is until the summer.
“By the end of this week, the justices will likely know, their law clerks will know, and the rest of us have to wait until June,” says Steven Engel, who clerked for Justice Anthony Kennedy from 2000 to 2001.
“By the end of this week, the justices will likely know, their law clerks will know, and the rest of us have to wait until June,” says Steven Engel, who clerked for Justice Anthony Kennedy from 2000 to 2001.
Whatever Vandy wants, Vandy gets
Whatever Vandy wants, Vandy gets � GetReligionMATTINGLY: As we have discussed a few times here at GetReligion, when it comes to making rules and enforcing them, private schools are literally in a different legal league than state schools. Private schools are voluntary associations and students choose to attend them, often signing lifestyle covenants or doctrinal statements that commit them to uphold certain beliefs and/or to abstain from certain activities. This is perfectly legal.
Will the Supreme Court let parts of Obamacare stand?
Will the Supreme Court let parts of health care law stand? - CNN.com: After three days of very public debate, the U.S. Supreme Court now retreats from the spotlight to make decisions that could topple some or all of the the sweeping health care reform bill championed by President Barack Obama.
Oral arguments concluded Wednesday on legal challenges to the 2010 Affordable Care Act. In their final sessions, the justices tackled the question of what would happen if they ruled that the heart of the law, the individual mandate that is its key funding mechanism, was unconstitutional.
Oral arguments concluded Wednesday on legal challenges to the 2010 Affordable Care Act. In their final sessions, the justices tackled the question of what would happen if they ruled that the heart of the law, the individual mandate that is its key funding mechanism, was unconstitutional.
Pope leaves Cuba with call to renew faith, build up society
Pope leaves Cuba with call to renew faith, build up society :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): As he concluded his historic trip to Cuba, Pope Benedict XVI encouraged the people of the island nation to “look again to the faith of your elders” and to “draw from that faith the strength to build a better future.”
By allowing the “most noble values” of the Cuban soul to blossom, the country can create “the basis for building a society of broad vision, renewed and reconciled,” he said as he prepared to leave for Rome.
By allowing the “most noble values” of the Cuban soul to blossom, the country can create “the basis for building a society of broad vision, renewed and reconciled,” he said as he prepared to leave for Rome.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Kindness Can Kill if Love is Unwilling to Wound
Kindness Can Kill if Love is Unwilling to Wound | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: We live in a reductionist culture that has tended to reduce love to kindness. The results are often quite problematic as we shall see.
Kindness is a very great thing and has an important place in our relationships. Kindness is evidenced by goodness and charitable behavior, a pleasantness, tenderness and concern for others.
Kindness is a very great thing and has an important place in our relationships. Kindness is evidenced by goodness and charitable behavior, a pleasantness, tenderness and concern for others.
Pope praises religious freedom before 700,000 people in Cuba's Revolution Square
In Revolution Square, Pope praises religious freedom :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Cuba has made progress towards full religious freedom and the government should continue these advances to strengthen society and to allow the Catholic Church to pursue her mission, Pope Benedict XVI said at a huge public Mass in Havana, Cuba.
"Cuba Needs Change": The Pope's Island Farewell
Whispers in the Loggia: "Cuba Needs Change": The Pope's Island Farewell: “Blessed are you, Lord God…, and blessed is your holy and glorious name” (Dan 3:52). This hymn of blessing from the Book of Daniel resounds today in our liturgy, inviting us repeatedly to bless and thank God. We are a part of that great chorus which praises the Lord without ceasing. We join in this concert of thanksgiving, and we offer our joyful and confident voice, which seeks to consolidate the journey of faith in love and truth.
Hola, Comrade: Pope Benedict meets Fidel Castro
Whispers in the Loggia: Hola, ComradePALMO: No explanation needed, here's your Shot of the Day.
During their half-hour meeting at the Apostolic Nunciature in Havana, Fidel Castro reportedly urged B16 to canonize Blesseds John Paul II and Teresa of Calcutta, and apparently had some liturgical questions for the pontiff, according to the Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Fr Federico Lombardi.
During their half-hour meeting at the Apostolic Nunciature in Havana, Fidel Castro reportedly urged B16 to canonize Blesseds John Paul II and Teresa of Calcutta, and apparently had some liturgical questions for the pontiff, according to the Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Fr Federico Lombardi.
Seminary is the first new Catholic building in Cuba since Castro's rise to power 53 years ago...
x: Driving out of Havana on the four-lane and mostly empty Carretera Central, it’s easy to miss the future of the Catholic Church in Cuba.
But on the left hand side of the highway is the San Carlos and Ambrosio Seminary, looking more like one of the many sprawling Spanish resort hotels that dot the Caribbean island.
“We are shaping Cuba’s priests of tomorrow here,” said the Rev. Jose Miguel Gonzalez, the seminary’s rector and a Spanish priest, who has worked in Cuba for 12 years.
But on the left hand side of the highway is the San Carlos and Ambrosio Seminary, looking more like one of the many sprawling Spanish resort hotels that dot the Caribbean island.
“We are shaping Cuba’s priests of tomorrow here,” said the Rev. Jose Miguel Gonzalez, the seminary’s rector and a Spanish priest, who has worked in Cuba for 12 years.
Something spooky happened to me during a routine visit to the chiropractor. It reminded me that the Devil is real and occult practices are dangerous...
Killing Us Softly: Seduced by the OccultMLADINICH: When my daughter first starting scrawling all over her papers with a black crayon, I was immediately concerned. She was about 14 months old, but she had been "drawing" for months. She favored bright colors, soft shapes, and a multitude of dots. The images were always cheerful and sweet in their total innocence. But one Friday when I picked up a sheaf of papers and saw her intense, ragged black scrawl, my heart leapt with fear. What could be troubling her, I wondered?
Three failed attempts to troll the Catholic Church...
3 Failed Attempts to Troll the Catholic Church | Bad CatholicBARNES: I got my forehead ashed, pulled out my self-flagellation whips, gave up writing for a bit, and BAM! the awkward enemies of Catholicism descended. Coincidence? Absolutely.
Anyhow, I’m here to summarize just how terribly our enemies have failed to troll the Church these past few weeks. I’ll grant their rage was apocalyptic. (Enough to scare an Episcopal, even.) But it was all sound and fury — signifying nothing, affecting nothing, doing nothing except strengthen my conviction that in this entirely crappy world, the Church is doing something right.
Anyhow, I’m here to summarize just how terribly our enemies have failed to troll the Church these past few weeks. I’ll grant their rage was apocalyptic. (Enough to scare an Episcopal, even.) But it was all sound and fury — signifying nothing, affecting nothing, doing nothing except strengthen my conviction that in this entirely crappy world, the Church is doing something right.
How to Recognize 7 Diversion Tactics in Philosophy and Theology
How to Recognize 7 Diversion Tactics in Philosophy and Theology ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: Have you ever been involved in a discussion on theology or philosophy that constantly gets off track? What about heated exchanges that go nowhere?
The problem is likely related to fallacies of diversion. In a previous post, we sought "How to Recognize Logical Problems in Philosophy and Theology."
Today we examine seven "Diversion Tactics." Like last time, we depend on Dr Kreeft's book Socratic Logic 3.
The problem is likely related to fallacies of diversion. In a previous post, we sought "How to Recognize Logical Problems in Philosophy and Theology."
Today we examine seven "Diversion Tactics." Like last time, we depend on Dr Kreeft's book Socratic Logic 3.
A reader puzzles about Genesis 1-11
A reader puzzles about Genesis 1-11 | Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: The Church’s basic rule of thumb in reading scripture is to read for the literal sense: that is, what is the author trying to say, the way he is trying to say it, and what is incidental to the assertion. At the bare minimum, I think the author is asserting there was some kind of flood that wiped out what he would call “the world”. We are not in any way obliged to think that means “the globe”.
What is it that you seek: truth, or convenience?
Are We Seeking Truth, or Convenience? | Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: Stopping at stoplights is difficult, especially if you urgently need to be somewhere. Even people who are pro-stoplight-stops sometimes go on through the intersection. But that doesn’t mean that we should toss out all laws and moral dictates about not running red lights. We must ask ourselves what is true, not what is easy.
Pro-life provisions in US bishops' grant ruled unconstitutional
Pro-life provisions in US bishops' grant ruled unconstitutional :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A federal judge sparked criticism after he ruled unconstitutional the government's accommodation of pro-life beliefs in an anti-human trafficking contract with the U.S. bishops.
“The bishops are disappointed and probably will appeal. This is another assault on the free exercise clause of the First Amendment,” Sr. Mary Ann Walsh, spokeswoman for the U.S. bishops' conference, told CNA March 27.
The bishops' contract proposal for a major five-year grant was approved in 2006 under the Trafficking Victims Prevention Act. The proposal contained language ensuring that its victim services are not used to “refer or fund activities that would be contrary to our moral convictions and religious beliefs.”
“The bishops are disappointed and probably will appeal. This is another assault on the free exercise clause of the First Amendment,” Sr. Mary Ann Walsh, spokeswoman for the U.S. bishops' conference, told CNA March 27.
The bishops' contract proposal for a major five-year grant was approved in 2006 under the Trafficking Victims Prevention Act. The proposal contained language ensuring that its victim services are not used to “refer or fund activities that would be contrary to our moral convictions and religious beliefs.”
The Obamacare mandate appears to be teetering on the edge of being struck down by the Supreme Court...
Obamacare Mandate in Deep Trouble | Catholic ExchangeKOFFLER: The Obamacare health insurance mandate appears to be teetering on the edge of being struck down by the Supreme Court, as the only potential swing justices – Anthony Kennedy and Chief Justice John Roberts – expressed deep skepticism that the government’s power to compel commerce could be limited once it can force you to purchase insurance.
Kennedy appeared deeply skeptical until the end, when he gave proponents of the mandate some hope by suggesting health care may be a unique case.
Kennedy appeared deeply skeptical until the end, when he gave proponents of the mandate some hope by suggesting health care may be a unique case.
I was supposed to be in Cuba today, but the Communist government refused me a visa. My experience is only a tiny blip in the half-century of the Castro catastrophe...
My Non-trip to CubaROYAL: Pope Benedict XVI arrived in Cuba Monday. I did not. I was scheduled to travel with a group from the Archdiocese of Miami. An archdiocesan employee called shortly before departure to say that the Cuban government refused me a visa.
This is not the first time. In 1998, when John Paul II came, the Cubans kept me waiting at Kennedy Airport while Cardinal O’Connor’s plane was about to take off. At the last minute, they relented. Unfortunately – for them – I gave an interview in the meantime to a television reporter about their repressive regime. It was broadcast when we were already in the air.
This is not the first time. In 1998, when John Paul II came, the Cubans kept me waiting at Kennedy Airport while Cardinal O’Connor’s plane was about to take off. At the last minute, they relented. Unfortunately – for them – I gave an interview in the meantime to a television reporter about their repressive regime. It was broadcast when we were already in the air.
When Will Christ Come? Some Basics of Catholic Eschatology
When Will Christ Come? Some Basics of Catholic Eschatology | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In certain Protestant circles (not all), especially among the Evangelicals there is a strong and often vivid preoccupation with signs of the Second Coming of Christ. Many of the notions that get expressed are either erroneous, or extreme. Some of these erroneous notions are rooted in a misunderstanding of the various Scriptural genres. Some are rooted in reading certain Scriptures in isolation from the wider context of the whole of Scripture. And some are rooted in reading one text, and disregarding other texts that balance it.
After twenty years, Pope Benedict finally meets his "Spiritual Godmother" in Santiago de Cuba...
Benedict XVI met his "spiritual Godmother" in Santiago de Cuba :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Upon initiating his day on Tuesday with a private Mass in Santiago de Cuba, Pope Benedict XVI personally met a religious from India who has been his “spiritual Godmother” for 20 years. The Holy Father celebrated the private Mass before departing for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of Cobre. At the Mass, there participated 10 religious from the contemplative branch of the Missionaries of Charity, which was founded by Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.
Pope Benedict asks Raúl Castro to declare Good Friday a holiday in Cuba
Benedict XVI asks Ra�l Castro to declare Good Friday a Holiday in Cuba :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): During a personal meeting that lasted over 40 minutes, Pope Benedict XVI asked Cuban President Raúl Castro to recognized Good Friday as a holiday in Cuba because of its importance in the Catholic calendar.
During the conversation, “a particular topic was touched upon: the Pope brought to the attention (of President Castro) the importance of Good Friday, asking for the possibility of its recognition as holiday,” said Fr. Lombardi.
During the conversation, “a particular topic was touched upon: the Pope brought to the attention (of President Castro) the importance of Good Friday, asking for the possibility of its recognition as holiday,” said Fr. Lombardi.
It's hard to be an atheist in an aquarium. Take four minutes and refresh your soul with this mesmerizing video of God's creation...
Kuroshio Sea - 2nd largest aquarium tank in the world - (song is Please don't go by Barcelona) on Vimeo: The main tank called the "Kuroshio Sea" holds 7,500-cubic meters (1,981,290 gallons) of water and features the world's second largest acrylic glass panel. Whale sharks and manta rays are kept amongst many other fish species in the main tank.
Vanderbilt University's aggressive nondiscrimination policy forces Catholic student group to leave campus...
x: One of the largest student religious groups at Vanderbilt will be leaving campus at the end of the year in a dispute over the university’s nondiscrimination policy.
That policy bars student groups from requiring their leaders to hold specific religious beliefs.
Leaders of Vanderbilt Catholic said that rule makes no sense. They won’t comply and instead will become an independent, off-campus ministry.
That policy bars student groups from requiring their leaders to hold specific religious beliefs.
Leaders of Vanderbilt Catholic said that rule makes no sense. They won’t comply and instead will become an independent, off-campus ministry.
Is it back to nuns with rulers?
Is It Back to Nuns with Rulers? — Crisis MagazineLONGENECKER: One of the things I have always found most delightful about the Catholic Church is nuns. Protestants have fearsome and holy women, but they don’t have nuns. There is something feisty and admirable about a nun. Especially a nun with a ruler. How the whining ex Catholics love to whimper about the hatchet faced nuns who rapped their knuckles with a ruler, or how they like to mock the nuns who patrolled the school dance, thrusting a ruler between the pelvises of a close dancing boy and girl while crying in an Irish accent, “Come now, you two– leave room for the Holy Spirit!”
The man who saved the original papers of St. John of the Cross...
The Man Who Saved the Original Papers of San Juan de la Cruz — Crisis MagazinePEARCE: It was March 1936. A series of anti-clerical riots swept through Toledo. Churches were burnt and priests and monks were attacked in the streets. During these disturbances, several Carmelite monks, disguised in lay clothes, sought shelter in the home of the British poet, Roy Campbell, who had moved to the city with his wife, Mary, and their two young daughters in the previous year. Four months later, on July 21, republican forces advanced on the city. Under cover of darkness, the Carmelite monks once again called on the Campbells. This time, however, they were not seeking refuge for themselves but for their priceless archives, which included the personal papers of San Juan de la Cruz. Campbell agreed to take possession of these precious archives and that night a heavy trunk of ancient documents was delivered secretly from the Carmelite library to the hallway of the Campbells’ house.
Pope Benedict XVI caps Cuba visit with Mass and a meeting with Fidel
Pope Benedict XVI wraps Cuba visit with Mass, Fidel meeting - NY Daily News: Pope Benedict XVI wraps up his visit to Cuba on Wednesday with an open-air Mass in the shrine of the Cuban revolution, hoping to revive the Catholic faith in this communist-run country. His other appointment promises a far more tantalizing climax: a meeting with Fidel Castro.
The former Cuban leader announced late Tuesday that he would happily meet with Benedict, saying he was asking for just a "few minutes of his very busy time" in Havana.
The former Cuban leader announced late Tuesday that he would happily meet with Benedict, saying he was asking for just a "few minutes of his very busy time" in Havana.
How can we be so sure that Jesus rose from the dead? Here's how...
The Thin Veil: Resurrection Series - Part 5 - If Jesus Died on the Cross, Did He Rise Again?VOGT: Is it true? Did the Bible get it right? Are there other plausible alternatives? Wading through Flannery O’Conner, myth-spinning fishermen, Homer’s Iliad, legendary body-snatchers, a crucified Judas, the Battle of Waterloo, and hallucinating ghost-whisperers, I’ll seek to convince you, before Holy Week, that the Resurrection is not just a good story, but a literal, historical reality.
First look: “Les Mis” on the big screen
First look: “Les Mis” on the big screen � The Deacon's BenchKANDRA: Fans of the blockbuster musical will appreciate these shots from the Daily Mail, with the first glimpses of Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean and Russell Crowe as his nemesis Javert. Others in the cast include Anne Hathaway as Fantine, and Sacha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter as the Thenardiers. Best casting news: Colm Wilkinson makes a cameo as the Bishop of Digne who inspires Valjean’s conversion.
7 movies for Holy Week and Easter...
Easter movies | WORLD VirginiaCURTIS: Once upon a time Hollywood chose biblical material, portrayed it fairly faithfully, and often won Academy Awards for doing so. Those days may be gone, but even as we plan to fill baskets and color eggs, we can bring these classics into our homes to create more meaningful traditions to share with our children and lead them to a deeper understanding of Easter.
Here we go again. The Pope has used a cane in public, so speculation about his retirement has started up. But it’s quite simple: popes don’t retire
Here we go again. The Pope has used a stick in public, so speculation about his retirement has started up. But it’s quite simple: popes don’t retire | CatholicHerald.co.ukODDIE: The Holy Father, it has been reported, walked with a black stick (well, he could hardly have used a white one, that really would have hit the headlines) for about 100 yards to an Alitalia plane from the helicopter which flew him from the Vatican to Leonardo da Vinci airport on his way to Mexico. But he coped with the steps of the aircraft unaided and then flew across the Atlantic on a 13 hour and 30 minutes flight. This isn’t the first unavoidable sign that he seems to be getting older (he is 85, after all); a few months ago, he started using a wheeled platform rather than walk down the vast length of St Peter’s Basilica to the altar.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
My Dear, Kindly Get Your Ovaries Off My Rosary
My Dear, Kindly Get Your Ovaries Off My Rosary � Catholic SistasTRASANCOS: How many times we have heard you exclaim that us tres terrible praying Catholics should get our “Rosaries off your ovaries”? You seem to imply that our prayers are going to take away your freedom to indulge in recreational sex, and so, like tyrannical children, you have decided that if you can force us to pay for your pills, devices, cannulas and scalpels, you will somehow become powerful unto yourselves. Do you honestly think that if we provide you with the ability to poison yourselves and kill your children, you will have suddenly merited dignity?
Did you see the Pope's Sunday Mass in Mexico? Here's an interesting element that most people probably missed...
The Meaning of the Papal Mass in Mexico: Catholic World Report: When Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Mass last Sunday at Guanajuato Bicentennial Park in Silao with hundreds of thousands of Mexicans in attendance, and millions more watching on television, he did so not only as a shepherd communicating with his flock, but as an evangelist for a liturgical reform that is slowly transforming the way Catholics worship.
In sharp contrast with the Masses that Mexicans typically experience in their parishes, the pontiff's liturgy—including the Scripture readings—was sung in Gregorian chant and other solemn forms of choral music. Moreover, the central and holiest part of the Mass, the canon, was said entirely in Latin.
In sharp contrast with the Masses that Mexicans typically experience in their parishes, the pontiff's liturgy—including the Scripture readings—was sung in Gregorian chant and other solemn forms of choral music. Moreover, the central and holiest part of the Mass, the canon, was said entirely in Latin.
In Cobre, Pope entrusts Cuba's future to the Virgin of Charity
In Cobre, Pope entrusts Cuba's future to the Virgin of Charity :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Benedict XVI committed Cuba's future to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, as he prayed for the suffering and oppressed during his visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Cobre on March 27.
“Let all those you meet know, whether near or far, that I have entrusted to the Mother of God the future of your country, advancing along the ways of renewal and hope, for the greater good of all Cubans,” he announced, after spending time in prayer before the statue of the “Virgin of Charity.”
“Let all those you meet know, whether near or far, that I have entrusted to the Mother of God the future of your country, advancing along the ways of renewal and hope, for the greater good of all Cubans,” he announced, after spending time in prayer before the statue of the “Virgin of Charity.”
As speculation mounts on a Fidel Castro meeting, Pope Benedict prepares to celebrate Mass in Havana's Revolution Square...
Whispers in the Loggia: In Che's ShadowPALMO: For the second time, tomorrow in Havana brings one of the most dramatic spectacles of the Traveling Pope Show, as Benedict XVI celebrates Mass under the looming gaze of Che Guevara, whose iconic etching overlooks the Cuban capital's Revolution Square.
Set for 9.30am local time (10.30 Eastern), the liturgy is the final scheduled event of the pontiff's six-day second trek to Latin America. With the Volo Papale not slated to depart for Rome until evening, however, it's always possible that the remainder of the day could bring a surprise or two.
Set for 9.30am local time (10.30 Eastern), the liturgy is the final scheduled event of the pontiff's six-day second trek to Latin America. With the Volo Papale not slated to depart for Rome until evening, however, it's always possible that the remainder of the day could bring a surprise or two.
The differences the Pill has made...
GEORGE WEIGEL: The differences the Pill has madeWEIGEL: As the talismanic year 2000 approached, and like virtually every other talking head and scribe in the world, I was asked what I thought the history-changing scientific discoveries of the 20th-century had been. And like the rest of the commentariat, I answered, “splitting the atom (which unleashed atomic energy for good or ill) and unraveling the DNA double-helix (which launched the new genetics and the new biotechnology).” Today, after a decade of pondering why the West is committing slow-motion demographic suicide through self-induced infertility, I would add a third answer: the invention of the oral contraceptive, “the Pill.”
How not to become a Catholic
How Not to Become a Catholic, Part 3 | Catholic ExchangeTONKOWICH: One thing many people can’t quite get their heads around is the Catholic Church’s claim that there is one Church founded by Jesus and that one this Church, according to the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), “constituted and organized as a society in this present, world, subsists in the Catholic Church, governed by the Successor of Peter and by the Bishops in communion with him.” Or as Richard John Neuhaus liked to put it, “The Catholic Church is the Church of Jesus Christ most fully and rightly ordered through time.”
Coming to a truer understanding of tolerance...
Coming to a Truer Understanding of Tolerance | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Last week on the blog we spoke briefly of tolerance in the discussion about Sloth. For it sometimes happens that what some call tolerance is more of a disinterestedness of discovering the truth and living by it. But there is such a thing as true tolerance and it has an important place in the human setting.
Are Mormons Christians?
QUAERITUR: Are Mormons Christians? | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Mormons do not have a Christian, Trinitarian religion. For Mormons, Christ is not the God-Man in the sense that Christians believe. They are not just in error about the Christ’s Divine Person, as Arians were. They have an entirely different understand of some person they call Christ, more or less related to the historical Jesus and to the Christ of orthodox Christian doctrine.
Jimmy Carter has written his own "study Bible". Get yours today! Or don't. Definitely don't...
Jimmy Carter: Bible Scholar? | Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: The knowledge Carter displays of the Bible and its proper interpretation is profoundly disturbing. One could forgive him a slip. Everyone has slips of the tongue and slips of memory, but this degree of incoherence is not what one expects of the author of a study Bible.
I’ve got more to say on President Carter and his forays into religious subjects, but for now . . .
What do you think?
I’ve got more to say on President Carter and his forays into religious subjects, but for now . . .
What do you think?
Video: A few thoughts about The Hunger Games...
"The Hunger Games" (SPOILERS) - A Commentary by Fr. Barron - YouTubeBARRON: When I was in high school I read Shirley Jackson's great short story, 'The Lottery'. Most Americans read it in high school, so you might remember the plot. It's about a festive small-town gathering, with good food, music, and festivity. It soon becomes clear that at the heart of all this is a lottery...
It is worth asking, “And then what?”
It is Worth Asking, “And then what?” | First ThingsSCALIA: When the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) raised a reasonable objection to the HHS mandate connected to the Affordable Care Act—a rule which will require all employers (including organizations like the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Sisters of Life) to betray their consciences and include free sterilization coverage and free contraception and abortion drugs in their health insurance plans—White House Press Secretary Jay Carney was dismissive. “The bishops,” he asserted, “never supported health care reform to begin with.”
Hundreds of lapsed Catholics were recently asked what made them fall away from the Church. Here are their answers...
Lapsed Catholics explain why they leave church – USATODAY.com: As part of a survey to understand why they have stopped attending Mass, a few hundred Catholics were asked what issues they would raise if they could speak to the bishop for five minutes.
Richard Dawkins asks Catholics: “Do you really believe that when a priest blesses a wafer, it turns into the body of Christ? Are you seriously telling me you believe that? Are you seriously saying that wine turns into blood?”
A Rally Without Faith — Crisis Magazine: The speakers that drew the loudest applause were not the people who praised reason, but persecuted faith. Unchallenged and in like-minded company, the cultural and political leaders of the atheist movement freely mocked and dismissed people of faith.
The brash superiority preached by atheists such as Hawkins shows that they are not content with a right to “unreligious freedom,” but seek suppression of religious expression.
If people of faith allow themselves to be bullied into silence, we can expect this sentiment to grow in our society. The existence of such a society requires submission from people of faith.
The brash superiority preached by atheists such as Hawkins shows that they are not content with a right to “unreligious freedom,” but seek suppression of religious expression.
If people of faith allow themselves to be bullied into silence, we can expect this sentiment to grow in our society. The existence of such a society requires submission from people of faith.
Why are statues and images veiled on the Fifth Sunday of Lent?
Why are Images Veiled on the Fifth Sunday of Lent? ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: Why are images veiled beginning on the fifth Sunday in Lent? Traditionally, the two weeks of Passiontide begin on the fifth Sunday of Lent. The first week is Passion Week, and the second week is Holy Week.
The traditional Gospel reading for this Sunday focuses on the increasing hatred against Christ from the Jewish authorities. They accuse Him of being a Samaritan, sorcery, blasphemy, and as being possessed by Satan. They don't think that Christ is "a good teacher." They think He is a demonic agent.
The traditional Gospel reading for this Sunday focuses on the increasing hatred against Christ from the Jewish authorities. They accuse Him of being a Samaritan, sorcery, blasphemy, and as being possessed by Satan. They don't think that Christ is "a good teacher." They think He is a demonic agent.
5 steps to help Catholics stop failing at online activism (and start winning)...
5 Steps to Help Catholics Stop Failing at Online Activism (and Start Winning) | CatholicVote.orgTHOMASPETERS: You read me right: Catholics are failing at online activism.
Sure, if you’re reading this, you probably know a heck of a lot more than your average Catholic about online activism, but still, when it comes to this subject in general, we Catholics are way behind.
The reason Catholics need to start winning at online activism isn’t about numbers on a scoreboard. Social media activism is a new major force which influences the outcome of battles we care about.
Sure, if you’re reading this, you probably know a heck of a lot more than your average Catholic about online activism, but still, when it comes to this subject in general, we Catholics are way behind.
The reason Catholics need to start winning at online activism isn’t about numbers on a scoreboard. Social media activism is a new major force which influences the outcome of battles we care about.
The New York Times tiptoes toward logic on the “Catholic vote”
NYTs tiptoes toward logic on “Catholic vote” � GetReligionMATTINGLY: If you are going to read the latest New York Times piece on candidate Rick Santorum and the “Catholic vote,” your first task is to keep reading — past the headline, the one that simply says: “Santorum Fails to Capture Catholic Vote.”
Come to think of it, read past the opening anecdote as well, since it tells why a Catholic mother or four has decided that she will be voting for Mitt Romney in the Maryland primary, despite the fact that “she shares the same values” as Santorum. The key is that Romney is more tolerant of other religions.
Come to think of it, read past the opening anecdote as well, since it tells why a Catholic mother or four has decided that she will be voting for Mitt Romney in the Maryland primary, despite the fact that “she shares the same values” as Santorum. The key is that Romney is more tolerant of other religions.
Vatican approves new "Rite for the Blessing of a Child in the Womb"; English and Spanish texts to be released soon...
Parishes encouraged to use new blessing for unborn children :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The U.S. bishops are encouraging parishes to incorporate into their communities a new blessing for a child in the womb, which the Vatican approved on March 25.
“I'm impressed with the beauty of this blessing for human life in the womb,” said Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Houston, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities.
“I'm impressed with the beauty of this blessing for human life in the womb,” said Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Houston, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities.
In Philadelphia, The Hour of Trial
Whispers in the Loggia: In Philadelphia, The Hour of TrialPALMO: Ten years since the eruption of Boston sparked the gravest scandal American Catholicism has ever known, today brought another high-profile milestone in the the clergy sex-abuse crisis as, for the first time, a US church official accused of cover-up entered a Philadelphia courtroom to stand criminal trial.
George Neumayr is making a bad situation worse
Neumayr is making a bad situation worse � In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: It’s one thing to feel angry. But it’s another thing to write angry. And George Neumayr is writing angry.
Last week Neumayr fired off a sustained and mean attack on Cdl. Wuerl (my response here). To no one’s great surprise, Wuerl’s people complained (albeit privately) to Neumayr’s boss—you know, sorta kinda exactly the way people complain to Wuerl’s boss in Rome. All the time. Now, it might not be my way of doing things, and it might not even be Neumayr’s, but, c’mon, complaints to editors about their writers’ opinions are as old as the press itself. Writers who work, by their own choice, in the public eye, should account complaints about their writing as a fact of life. At the very least, they shouldn’t respond with a follow-up diatribe about, of all things, how “notoriously thin-skinned” other people are!
Last week Neumayr fired off a sustained and mean attack on Cdl. Wuerl (my response here). To no one’s great surprise, Wuerl’s people complained (albeit privately) to Neumayr’s boss—you know, sorta kinda exactly the way people complain to Wuerl’s boss in Rome. All the time. Now, it might not be my way of doing things, and it might not even be Neumayr’s, but, c’mon, complaints to editors about their writers’ opinions are as old as the press itself. Writers who work, by their own choice, in the public eye, should account complaints about their writing as a fact of life. At the very least, they shouldn’t respond with a follow-up diatribe about, of all things, how “notoriously thin-skinned” other people are!
Jesus wrecked this young woman's life. And that's a good thing...
“Jesus Wrecked My Life” | Christopher CloseupROSSI: Katie Davis believes that Jesus “wrecked” her life. In her eyes, however, that’s a good thing.
A few years ago, the Tennessee teen served as class president at her high school, enjoyed shopping for shoes, and planned to attend college. But Katie had also grown up admiring Mother Teresa and the radical love with which she served the poor. At the age of 12, she started taking her Christian faith more seriously and slowly realized that she felt called to back up her beliefs with action.
A few years ago, the Tennessee teen served as class president at her high school, enjoyed shopping for shoes, and planned to attend college. But Katie had also grown up admiring Mother Teresa and the radical love with which she served the poor. At the age of 12, she started taking her Christian faith more seriously and slowly realized that she felt called to back up her beliefs with action.
Archbishop Chaput's new eBook was released Tuesday morning. One reviewer called it "the best buck you'll spend in 2012". He's right...
Amazon.com: A Heart on Fire: Catholic Witness and the Next America eBook: Charles J. Chaput: Kindle Store: In this eBook original, Charles J. Chaput, the Archbishop of Philadelphia, offers a powerful manifesto on the need for Americans to protect religious freedom.
As he notes, principles that Americans find self-evident—the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of conscience, the separation of political and sacred authority, the distinction between secular and religious law, the idea of a civil society pre-existing and distinct from the state—are not widely shared elsewhere in the world, and in recent years seem to be in jeopardy on our own shores.
Archbishop Chaput offers a call to action for leadership both here and abroad to challenge this damaging trend. By thoughtfully interpreting and applying Catholic values to this confusing moment in history, he provides hope for an American audience hungry for courage and counsel.
As he notes, principles that Americans find self-evident—the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of conscience, the separation of political and sacred authority, the distinction between secular and religious law, the idea of a civil society pre-existing and distinct from the state—are not widely shared elsewhere in the world, and in recent years seem to be in jeopardy on our own shores.
Archbishop Chaput offers a call to action for leadership both here and abroad to challenge this damaging trend. By thoughtfully interpreting and applying Catholic values to this confusing moment in history, he provides hope for an American audience hungry for courage and counsel.
This little boy and his stuffed tiger desperately need your prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It's Lent. Let's get started...
For Malcolm : Conversion DiaryFULWILER: When I was at the Behold Conference, a friend named Carla came up to say hello. I had met her last year when she was in the process of adopting a special needs child, and asked how things were going. She told me all about her precious new son, who is her seventh child, and recounted some of the adventures of the adoption process (which you can read about at her great blog here). But then she immediately changed the subject to a little boy named Malcolm, who also needs a home. I haven’t stopped thinking about him since that moment.
Be strong. Be real men. That is what women want...
Real Men Are Pro-Life | Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: Supporting a woman’s right to choose is not the act of a real man. It’s the act of a castrato, a disemboweled mummy of a man who has nothing to live for but to serve the snakelike and the faithless. Women don’t want someone who’s so supportive, he’ll go halvsies on the abortion bill. They want someone who will make such a good life with you that choosing death is the last thing on anyone’s mind. They want someone who is worth yanking out of that pit—someone you’d never even consider running from.
In stormy Egyptian seas, the Coptic Church seeks a new helmsman...
Coptic pope dies; reigned since 1971 | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Egypt’s Coptic minority, the largest and most influential Christian community in the Middle East, already faced deep uncertainty about its future in the wake of the Arab Spring. Many Copts feel suspended between the promise of equality in a democratic state, after centuries of second-class citizenship, and the peril of an Islamic theocracy.
On Pope Benedict's first day in Cuba, a clash of worldviews and a Golden Rose
Pope Benedict's First Day in Cuba: Face-Off of Worldviews | Daily News | NCRegister.com: On his first day in Cuba, images of joy and beauty inspired by Pope Benedict XVI’s pilgrimage to the island were offset by sinister, controlling gestures from the Cuban regime.
And just below the surface roils a culture clash, a weltanschauung face-off, pitting two comprehensive philosophies of the universe against each other: Christianity vs. communism.
And just below the surface roils a culture clash, a weltanschauung face-off, pitting two comprehensive philosophies of the universe against each other: Christianity vs. communism.
Monday, March 26, 2012
7 Connections Between the Womb and the Tomb
Truth & CharityMURPHY: Usually falling on March 25th, 9 months before Christmas Day, the Solemnity of the Annunciation was moved this year to March 26th, which gave a great many people the opportunity to take part in the Total Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary, ending today. It’s fitting that we should consecrate ourselves to Jesus through Mary during Lent, but in all truth, on this solemnity, we cannot help but look toward Christ’s Passion and Death. At the Annunciation, the Word became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and took flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin. In a few weeks, we commemorate the end of that life. On each occasion we look to the other, profoundly aware that the meaning of one is wrapped in the other – the Annunciation at which God became man reminds us that He did so to pay the infinite debt of sin, while the Passion and Death of Christ which won salvation for us remind us of that humanity the Word had taken on 33 years before. These two solemn days of our calendar, one bright and hopeful, the other dark and agonizing, belong together precisely because the sacred womb of Mary was a foreshadowing of the Holy Sepulcher.
"I Come to Cuba as a Pilgrim of Charity": Address of Pope Benedict at the Arrival Ceremony in Cuba...
Whispers in the Loggia: "I Come to Cuba As a Pilgrim of Charity": Thank you, Mr President, for your welcome and your kind words, with which you also conveyed the sentiments of respect of the Cuban government and people for the Successor of Peter. I greet the civil authorities here present, as well as the members of the diplomatic corps. I cordially greet the President of the Episcopal Conference, Archbishop Dionisio Guillermo García Ibáñez of Santiago de Cuba; the Archbishop of Havana, Cardinal Jaime Ortega y Alamino, and my other Brother Bishops of Cuba, and I assure them of my deep spiritual closeness. Finally, I greet with heartfelt affection all the faithful of the Catholic Church in Cuba, the beloved people of this beautiful island, and all Cubans wherever they may be. You are always present in my heart and prayers, especially in the days preceding the much anticipated moment of my visit to you, which the grace and goodness of God has made possible.
From two Catholics, two approaches to reform in Cuba...
Two Clerics Differ on Cuban Reform - WSJ.com: As young men, Jaime Ortega and José Conrado Rodríguez were teacher and student at a Cuban Catholic seminary. Decades later, the teacher, now a cardinal, and the student, a country priest, are dueling over the soul of the island—and the part the church should play in saving it.
Anglicanism, Atheism, and Abitofhell
Shameless Popery: Anglicanism, Atheism, and AbitofhellHESCHMEYER: The Anglican Communion is famous (perhaps notorious) for wanting to prevent internal schism at any seemingly cost -- even if that means jettisoning doctrines, or permitting things, like the ordination of women and practicing homosexuals, that they once firmly denounced.
Back in 1914, to show the peril of this approach, an Anglican priest by the name of Ronald Knox wrote a parody calledReunion All Round, envisioning a future Church of England that would be acceptable to Catholics, Jews, Muslims, and atheists. Knox joking proposed the creation of a “Symphorodox Church” that, rather than eradicating heresies for the sake of orthodoxy, embraced them, operating under the principle that “all heresies and schisms are the very condition of Christian unity.”
Back in 1914, to show the peril of this approach, an Anglican priest by the name of Ronald Knox wrote a parody calledReunion All Round, envisioning a future Church of England that would be acceptable to Catholics, Jews, Muslims, and atheists. Knox joking proposed the creation of a “Symphorodox Church” that, rather than eradicating heresies for the sake of orthodoxy, embraced them, operating under the principle that “all heresies and schisms are the very condition of Christian unity.”
Quaeritur: An iPad in place of a Missal (the book itself) for Mass
QUAERITUR: An iPad in place of a Missal (the book itself) for Mass | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Yes, I think you could do that, in a pinch. But I would have to protest, strongly, the use of an iPad when there was a book available.
When travelling? Yes, I think so. I use my iPhone for my breviary when on the road. I like using the book better, but the iPhone presents the identical texts and saying the TEXTS is what matters.
Perhaps some priests could offer their views.
10 Reasons Not to Buy "Style, Sex & Substance"
Creative Minority Report: 10 Reasons Not to Buy "Style, Sex & Substance"MATTARCHBOLD: I have a confession to make. I read Mommy blogs. Lots of them. I do. My brother Pat will have a field day with me on that but I enjoy them.
I read Jen, Simcha, Hallie, and Danielle just about as often as they post. I check in on lots of others like Karen Edminsten, Elizabeth Duffy, Rebecca Teti, and Rachel Balducci a few times a week among others.
I read Jen, Simcha, Hallie, and Danielle just about as often as they post. I check in on lots of others like Karen Edminsten, Elizabeth Duffy, Rebecca Teti, and Rachel Balducci a few times a week among others.
Of heavenly conjunctions, the turning of the spheres, and astrological divination...
Of heavenly conjunctions, the turning of the spheres, and astrological divination | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Last night and the night before I went out into the crisp darkness to gaze for a while at a celestial conjunction of Jupiter, Venus and a sliver of a Crescent moon, all gathered directly under the Pleiades.
This spiffing display has led more than one person to wonder if perhaps we were being given a hint about Our Blessed Mother, since it fell on her true feast and her observed feast.
A nice, pious idea, but, no.
Can God make use of signs in the heavens? Sure, He can. He may have in the wake of the Apparitions at Fatima with the “miracle of the sun” and the aurora before the onset of WWII. God can and does intervene to do meaningful things which, while not contrary to nature’s order, are nevertheless beyond our ability to explain according to the laws of science.
Monday is Lady Day, the great Feast of the Annunciation, and one of only two days of the year when everyone kneels during the Creed...
Lady Day | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Because yesterday was a Sunday of Lent, indeed 1st Passion Sunday, the Feast of the Incarnation, the moment of the Annunciation is observed today. Therefore, in the Ordinary form, today is one of only two days of the year when everyone kneels at the words in the Creed… et incarnatus est de Spiritu Santo ex Maria virgine et homo factus est.
The Incarnation heralded the Incarnation, that moment when our Lord elevated our humanity by taking our human nature into an indestructible bond with His Divinity. In the Incarnation God opened for us the path to “divinization”, His sharing of something of His own divine glory with us in the eternal happiness of heaven.
The Incarnation heralded the Incarnation, that moment when our Lord elevated our humanity by taking our human nature into an indestructible bond with His Divinity. In the Incarnation God opened for us the path to “divinization”, His sharing of something of His own divine glory with us in the eternal happiness of heaven.
Why women cannot be priests...
Why Women Cannot Be Priests | Standing on my HeadLONGENECKER: I fully understand and accept that this teaching may be offensive to some and incomprehensible to others. I also fully understand that not all women are mothers. Nevertheless, this is the basic theological model which the church in her history and teaching supports and promotes as the essential structure for human life, faith and the plan of salvation.
Controversial Vatican stem cell conference canceled
Controversial Vatican stem cell conference canceled :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A controversial scientific conference which featured pro-embryonic stem cell researchers and was sponsored by the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy for Life has been canceled, just one month before it was set to take place.
“I am infinitely relieved that the Church has avoided a major blunder which would have confused the faithful for decades to come,” said one member of the Pontifical Academy who asked for anonymity in commenting to CNA.
“I am infinitely relieved that the Church has avoided a major blunder which would have confused the faithful for decades to come,” said one member of the Pontifical Academy who asked for anonymity in commenting to CNA.
At last! An English bishop with the courage to reintroduce the traditional Latin Mass...
At last – an English bishop with the courage to reintroduce the traditional Latin Mass – Telegraph BlogsTHOMPSON: Here's a photograph to gladden the heart of any traditional Catholic and to give The Tablet's Bobbie Mickens a fit of the vapours. The prelate wearing that magnificent mitre is a bishop of England and Wales, believe it or not, presiding at a solemn Latin Mass to mark the re-opening of a parish where the worship will be in the Extraordinary Form. More than a thousand people attended.
James Cameron reaches the deepest point in the ocean, 7 miles below the surface, a pitch-black world where the pressure is 8 tons per square inch...
James Cameron Reaches Ocean’s Deepest Point, 7 Miles Below | NewsFeed | TIME.com: The very barren bottom of the Mariana Trench had a visitor Sunday night: filmmaker James Cameron. After years of preparation, Cameron descended 35,756 feet beneath the ocean’s surface in his 12-ton lime green submarine called Deepsea Challenger.
Video: When this dog howls, you will laugh. (They should take him on random late-night walks, just to keep the neighbors on their toes.)
AFV - Cody The Howling Dog - YouTube: The YouTube video says "No description available." It should say "No description possible." Just watch.
Russian punk rockers perform blasphemous "unsanctioned" concert in Moscow Cathedral; furious Patriarch Kirill refuses leniency as band members face up to seven years in prison...
Russian patriarch blasts punk rock band’s cathedral action : News Headlines - Catholic Culture: Uttering blasphemies and wearing masks and provocative attire, a feminist punk-rock band danced in front of the pulpit of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow, prompting a strong denunciation from Patriarch Kirill.
The band members face the prospect of seven years of prison for their actions.
The band members face the prospect of seven years of prison for their actions.
This is the best buck you'll spend in 2012: Archbishop Chaput responds to Symmachus...
Response to SymmachusMINER: You know we’ve come to a significant point in the history of the Catholic Church in America when leading bishops begin to be as visible in public life as are politicians. (You might also say it’s about damn time.) Cardinal Francis George in Chicago, Cardinal Timothy Dolan in New York, and Archbishop Charles Chaput in Philadelphia: each of these men has often engaged the larger culture with reminders – sometimes gentle, sometimes severe – that America is inching towards the precarious edge of a moral precipice.
The Court and Broadcast Pornography
The Court and Broadcast Pornography | Catholic ExchangeSHAW: Reading about two free speech cases now before the Supreme Court, I found myself thinking of Cardinal Newman. I’ll get to Cardinal Newman in a minute, but first let me say a word about those cases pending in the court.
The basic issue in FCC v. Fox Television Stations and FCC v. ABC is the authority of the Federal Communications Commission to bar obscenity and nudity from broadcast television and to fine broadcasters who violate the ban. In a decision back in 1978, the Supreme Court upheld the FCC. Now the networks want to change that, and they have the support of decisions from the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals in New York.
The basic issue in FCC v. Fox Television Stations and FCC v. ABC is the authority of the Federal Communications Commission to bar obscenity and nudity from broadcast television and to fine broadcasters who violate the ban. In a decision back in 1978, the Supreme Court upheld the FCC. Now the networks want to change that, and they have the support of decisions from the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals in New York.
"It ain't over till it's over": My mother's deathbed conversion...
“It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over:” My Mother’s Deathbed Conversion | Catholic LaneSTRUBLE: Ever since my return to the sacraments – or rather my re-conversion at age 28 to my Catholic upbringing – I’d been trying with no visible success to coax, cajole, convince by argument, and otherwise persuade my mother, Ruth Struble, to accept the Gospel. Mine was the zealotry of the neophyte. After some years I came to the conclusion that until her heart softened it would be best not to push the religious issue. Bulldozing Mom was not, I realized, the same as perseverance tempered with patience, meanwhile preaching by example.
Why is the Pope commemorating a statue in Cuba?
Why is the Pope Commemorating a Statue in Cuba? | Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: The Catholic faith has always made use of images as “windows on to God”. This goes right back to the New Testament, when Paul speak to the Galatians “before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified” (Galatians 3:1). The prohibition against the use of images in the Old Testament was, like much of the Old Testament, provisional and meant to prevent idolatry, which is the worship of creatures instead of the Creator. For it was the destiny of the Jews to be headed off from the worship of things that resemble God to the worship of God himself. But when God the Son takes on human form in the person of the Jewish Messiah, images are transformed, because he is “the image of the invisible God” (Hebrews 1:4). So images are hallowed by the Incarnation as the Word becomes matter.
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