What’s mine, is God’s. And What’s Yours is God’s. A presentation on the 7th Commandment | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Someone stole my iPhone today, so I thought, maybe it would be good to post on the the 7th Commandment: You shall not steal!
At first glance this commandment seems pretty simple and straight-forward: “Don’t take anything that doesn’t belong to you without permission.” True enough, the seventh commandment does call us to respect the rights of others in regard to their personal property. This understanding alone, however, is incomplete.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Did Cardinal Dolan authorize paying abusers?
Cardinal Dolan Authorized Paying Abusers? |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Suppose you are walking down the street and a homeless person approaches you and asks you for some money. You give him the money. Would that justify a headline saying that you have been paying the homeless?
Or suppose you were with your teenage son or daughter and they asked if they could give some money to the homeless person as an act of kindness and you said yes. Would that justify a headling saying that you authorized paying the homeless?
Or suppose you were with your teenage son or daughter and they asked if they could give some money to the homeless person as an act of kindness and you said yes. Would that justify a headling saying that you authorized paying the homeless?
My complete ignorance of history finally pays off...
My Complete Ignorance of History Finally Pays Off |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: I had no idea what happened in Mexico at the time of the Cristero War. None. And normally you'd think that for a Catholic writer, having no knowledge of a fairly recent persecution of Catholics by our next door neighbors would be...a bad thing. But it made "For Greater Glory" incredibly exciting as all get out for me to watch.
I honestly had no idea what was going to happen next during the movie. If you had told me that the President of Mexico was going to challenge the leader of Cristo Rey to a break dancing competition for all the marbles I would've had no basis for arguing against it.
I honestly had no idea what was going to happen next during the movie. If you had told me that the President of Mexico was going to challenge the leader of Cristo Rey to a break dancing competition for all the marbles I would've had no basis for arguing against it.
What do Miles Davis and Gregorian chant have in common?
De Gustibus | Dominicana: Last Friday an article by professional food developer Barbara Stuckey appeared in the “Life and Culture” section of The Wall Street Journal. Ms. Stuckey writes that, though she loves her job, she is “constantly frustrated by the unwillingness of most Americans to try foods that challenge their palates.” Americans, she says, tend to cling to their favorite bland foods, and these tend to be loaded with sugar. “Expanding our repertoire of foods isn’t just about exploration and new pleasures,” Ms. Stuckey explains, “It’s also the first step toward eating a broader, healthier diet.” Instead of simply bemoaning the problem, she provides practical, concrete steps to self-education that actually sound like they could be fun.
Huge expectations in Latin America over 'For Greater Glory' opening...
Huge expectations in Latin America over 'For Greater Glory' opening :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Latin Americans are greatly anticipating the release of “For Greater Glory” on June 1 in the U.S., as weekend box office numbers could determine its distribution in Central and South America.
The movie tells the story of the Cristero War in Mexico during the religious persecution carried out by President Plutarco Elias Calles against the Catholic Church in the 1920s. It stars Andy Garcia, Eva Longoria, Peter O’Toole, Panamanian singer Ruben Blades and Mexican actor Eduardo Verastegui.
The movie tells the story of the Cristero War in Mexico during the religious persecution carried out by President Plutarco Elias Calles against the Catholic Church in the 1920s. It stars Andy Garcia, Eva Longoria, Peter O’Toole, Panamanian singer Ruben Blades and Mexican actor Eduardo Verastegui.
The Crisis of Masculinity: An interview with Patrick Madrid...
The Crisis of Masculinity | CRADIO: Popular Catholic author and apologist Patrick Madrid has been enlightening Aussies in Sydney, Brisbane and Wagga over the past two weeks thanks to Sydney’s Catholic Adult Education Centre and The Mustard Seed Bookshop.
Despite his busy schedule, Patrick made some time to chat to us about true masculinity, some of the obstacles it faces in modern society and the role of Our Lady, mothers and wives in helping men become who Christ wants them to be.
Despite his busy schedule, Patrick made some time to chat to us about true masculinity, some of the obstacles it faces in modern society and the role of Our Lady, mothers and wives in helping men become who Christ wants them to be.
Rare “Last Supper Machine” Could Be Yours!
Rare “Last Supper Machine” Could Be Yours!SCHIFFER: It’s a toy!�
It’s a work of art!�
It’s a devotional aid!
It’s all of the above!�
It’s actually an automaton, a rare mechanical re-enactment of Leonardo DaVinci’s “The Last Supper.”� The machine is created from wood and metal, fabric and paint, gears and drives—and, according to the Skinner Auction House of Massachusetts, it’s powered by two 110 and 220 volt, 60-cycle motors.� The automaton measures 69 inches long, 30 inches high, and 22 inches deep.
It’s a work of art!�
It’s a devotional aid!
It’s all of the above!�
It’s actually an automaton, a rare mechanical re-enactment of Leonardo DaVinci’s “The Last Supper.”� The machine is created from wood and metal, fabric and paint, gears and drives—and, according to the Skinner Auction House of Massachusetts, it’s powered by two 110 and 220 volt, 60-cycle motors.� The automaton measures 69 inches long, 30 inches high, and 22 inches deep.
U.S. House rejects sex-selection abortion ban
House rejects sex-selection abortion ban – USATODAY.com: The House on Thursday fell short in an effort to ban abortions based on the sex of the fetus as Republicans and Democrats made an election-year appeal for women's votes. The legislation would have made it a federal crime to perform or force a woman to undergo a sex-based abortion, a practice most common in some Asian countries where families wanting sons abort female fetuses
Some people call it a "choice"...
Some People Call It a “Choice” …MCDONALD: If you support abortion, you’re not allowed to look away. Sorry. You don’t get that privilege. You don’t get to wrap yourself in nice little slogans about “women’s rights” and “my body, my choice,” or the most nauseating one of all: “well, no one likes it, but…” If your oh-so-enlightened views are predicated upon the existence of horrible things happening in tiny rooms to people you don’t know, you should at least have the moral courage to understand what happens in those rooms. This applies as much to those on the right who support torture as it does to those on the left who support abortion.
Maybe worth getting upset about, maybe not...
Maybe Worth Getting Upset about, Maybe NotSHEA: The NY Times has a story about Cdl. Dolan providing what some call “financial incentives” and others call “payoffs” to pervy priests in order to get them to agree to leave the priesthood immediately rather than fight out a long drawn out process.
There is much dudgeon the article. There is no dudgeon–none whatsoever–about the fact that exactly the same tactic is used to get rid of pervy public school teachers. This, and the lionization of the Right Sort of Roman makes me rather inclined to think this a specimen of the Times indulging in fake dudgeon because of Dolan’s leadership against the HHS mandate. In short, it’s a hit piece in the service of another agenda.
There is much dudgeon the article. There is no dudgeon–none whatsoever–about the fact that exactly the same tactic is used to get rid of pervy public school teachers. This, and the lionization of the Right Sort of Roman makes me rather inclined to think this a specimen of the Times indulging in fake dudgeon because of Dolan’s leadership against the HHS mandate. In short, it’s a hit piece in the service of another agenda.
ESPN’s elevator ride to hell
ESPN’s elevator ride to hell | The God Blog | Jewish Journal: One of my favorite ESPN commercials involves the New Jersey Devil and an elevator ride to hell. I’ve shared this before, but it’s worth, um, resurrecting given the start tonight of the Stanley Cup Finals between the New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings. For those who don’t know, that’s hockey.
New old-fashioned nun gets promotion
Got news? New old-fashioned nun gets promotion � GetReligionMATTINGLY: From time to time, your GetReligionistas have joined with the general public in moaning about the degree to which mainstream journalists are obsessed with matters of political “process” and that whole “inside baseball” school of news coverage in which reporters pounce on tiny changes in process or personnel as alleged evidence of earthquakes in national or world affairs.
Life in the Vatican
Life in the Vatican - Vatican InsiderTOSATTI: The Secretary of State is the Pope’s closest collaborator, chosen by him based on a relationship of trust. This is especially true in the case of Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone who worked with Benedict XVI for a long time, when the current Pope was Prefect for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. The Pope usually chooses someone from the diplomatic corps - that is, one of the priests who have completed the ecclesiastical Academy and developed a career in Nunciatures across the world - for the post of Secretary of State. Bertone is a Salesian priest, formerly Bishop of the Vercelli and Genoa, in Italy, but he is not a diplomat. This sparked resentment in the diplomacy world and within the Secretariat of State which is made up of diplomats. His role can be likened to that of a prime minister in a secular government, where the Pope is the King or the President of the Republic. He is in charge of everything but above all, must co-ordinate the various departments that deal with specific sectors of the government that represents the one million and 200 Catholics across the world.
Freedom is worth defending...
Freedom Is Worth Defending - Catholic New YorkDOLAN: It’s the evening of Memorial Day as I write this column. Never can we forget those patriots who gave their all in service to our beloved country.
Earlier, I took a stroll outside around St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and chatted with some of our men in uniform, sailors in for Fleet Week. As I try to do when I meet our men and women in the Armed Forces, I thanked them for their service to our nation. That seems especially appropriate on Memorial Day.
Earlier, I took a stroll outside around St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and chatted with some of our men in uniform, sailors in for Fleet Week. As I try to do when I meet our men and women in the Armed Forces, I thanked them for their service to our nation. That seems especially appropriate on Memorial Day.
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty tells Catholic Church he’s in charge of schools
Canada News: Dalton McGuinty tells Catholic church he’s in charge of schools - thestar.com: McGuinty, a Catholic whose wife Terri teaches in the separate school system that gets $7 billion annually in taxpayer funding, acknowledged Collins has responsibilities to exercise in his position.
“I have a different set of responsibilities,” McGuinty said Tuesday at the Bombardier factory in Downsview.
“I’m accountable to all faiths, I’m accountable to people of no faith. I’m accountable to all parents.”
Under the amendment supported by the New Democrats and the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association, Catholic schools must let students call anti-homophobia support groups “gay” clubs or words to that effect if teens so desire.
“I have a different set of responsibilities,” McGuinty said Tuesday at the Bombardier factory in Downsview.
“I’m accountable to all faiths, I’m accountable to people of no faith. I’m accountable to all parents.”
Under the amendment supported by the New Democrats and the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association, Catholic schools must let students call anti-homophobia support groups “gay” clubs or words to that effect if teens so desire.
The Ark of the Wilderness, St. Catherine's Mount Sinai, prepares to share its treasures online
A Reluctant Sinner: The Ark of the Wilderness prepares to share its treasures online - St Catherine's Mount Sinai enters the digital age: One of the world’s oldest Christian monasteries, commonly known as
St Catherine’s Mount Sinai, is about to enter the twenty-first century by allowing scholars to read its digitalised manuscripts online.
More properly known as the Sacred and Imperial Monastery of the God-Trodden Mount of Sinai, its world-famous library is home to the second largest collection of early codices and manuscripts after the Vatican Library. St Catherine’s has also been in continuous use as a monastery for seventeen centuries, making it as ancient, if not more so, as the equally famous Monastery of St Antony, founded by the father of monasticism himself.
St Catherine’s Mount Sinai, is about to enter the twenty-first century by allowing scholars to read its digitalised manuscripts online.
More properly known as the Sacred and Imperial Monastery of the God-Trodden Mount of Sinai, its world-famous library is home to the second largest collection of early codices and manuscripts after the Vatican Library. St Catherine’s has also been in continuous use as a monastery for seventeen centuries, making it as ancient, if not more so, as the equally famous Monastery of St Antony, founded by the father of monasticism himself.
Fortnight For Freedom
Fortnight For Freedom |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: The Fourth of July is coming, and it's an election year.� It should feel like a carnival, but instead, my politically conscious friends feel more like putting on black arm bands when we head to the polls.
As a Catholic, I associate myself more or less with conservative candidates, not because I own solid gold toilets and like to eat welfare mothers for breakfast, and not because I have an ounce of admiration or trust for any current prominent Republican, but because the Republican party is very slightly less pro-death than the Democratic party.� I don't expect to gain any ground; I just want to slow down how quickly we lose.
As a Catholic, I associate myself more or less with conservative candidates, not because I own solid gold toilets and like to eat welfare mothers for breakfast, and not because I have an ounce of admiration or trust for any current prominent Republican, but because the Republican party is very slightly less pro-death than the Democratic party.� I don't expect to gain any ground; I just want to slow down how quickly we lose.
The month of Mary comes to an end...
Ending the month of Mary - YouTube: Today marks the end of the month the church dedicates to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and tonight a rosary procession will be held at the Vatican.
The hunt for thieves in the Vatican...
The Hunt for Thieves in the VaticanMAGISTER: There's method in this madness. Since the butler of His Holiness ended up in jail, the scene has suddenly changed. At center stage is no longer the dispute over the contents of the stolen papers. It's the thieves. Intent on scheming in the shadow of a venerable white robe.
"With justice eliminated, what are kingdoms if not a great band of thieves?" The phrase is from Saint Augustine, but it was Benedict XVI who cited it in his first encyclical, "Deus Caritas Est" of 2005. He didn't know that seven years later it would become the public image of the Vatican. A citadel devastated by thievery, with no corner left inviolate, not even that "sancta sanctorum" which the private desk of the pope should be.
"With justice eliminated, what are kingdoms if not a great band of thieves?" The phrase is from Saint Augustine, but it was Benedict XVI who cited it in his first encyclical, "Deus Caritas Est" of 2005. He didn't know that seven years later it would become the public image of the Vatican. A citadel devastated by thievery, with no corner left inviolate, not even that "sancta sanctorum" which the private desk of the pope should be.
Ten Catholic women who changed the world
Ten Catholic women who changed the world | CatholicHerald.co.uk: Flannery O’Connor is one of the best female novelists and short story writers ever to have lived.
She was the first novelist born in the 20th century to have her works published by the Library of America. And her Completed Stories won the 1972 National Book Award for Fiction and was hailed as the “Best of the National Book Awards” in 2009.
But her life was one of contradiction. She was born in 1925 to “an old Catholic family” in the Bible Belt. Her family were conspicuously Catholic, but O’Connor was an adept chronicler of southern Protestant life. O’Connor was convinced by the power of Catholic sacraments to change the human condition by divine grace.
She was the first novelist born in the 20th century to have her works published by the Library of America. And her Completed Stories won the 1972 National Book Award for Fiction and was hailed as the “Best of the National Book Awards” in 2009.
But her life was one of contradiction. She was born in 1925 to “an old Catholic family” in the Bible Belt. Her family were conspicuously Catholic, but O’Connor was an adept chronicler of southern Protestant life. O’Connor was convinced by the power of Catholic sacraments to change the human condition by divine grace.
Some might call the timing of 'For Greater Glory' (which opens Friday) providential. I wouldn't argue with them...
SDG Reviews 'For Greater Glory' | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: For Greater Glory tells a story of religious freedom and oppression that is far too little known, and that would be important and worthwhile at any time, but is strikingly apropos in our cultural moment.
The Cristero War or Cristiada of 1926 to 1929 was one of the largest insurgencies in Western history. Yet Americans in general, even Catholics and those of Mexican heritage, remain largely ignorant of this period of brutal suppression and desperate resistance, not to mention the long and contentious history of church-state antagonism in Mexico surrounding it.
The Cristero War or Cristiada of 1926 to 1929 was one of the largest insurgencies in Western history. Yet Americans in general, even Catholics and those of Mexican heritage, remain largely ignorant of this period of brutal suppression and desperate resistance, not to mention the long and contentious history of church-state antagonism in Mexico surrounding it.
6 Biblical Reasons Mary Is the “New Eve”
6 Biblical Reasons Mary Is the “New Eve” | St. Peter's List: Mother Mary is the New Eve. Through St. Paul, Holy Scripture tells us that Christ is the New Adam, and where all died in Adam, all may be made alive in Christ. The comparison between Adam and Christ revealed a parallel in salvation history between the story of humanity’s first parents and the story of humanity’s salvation. Within this parallel, the Virgin Mary plays a role that rightfully entitles her the New Eve.
At the Indy 500, the roar of the Amens...
Whispers in the Loggia: At Indy 500, The Roar of The AmensPALMO: In what's become an annual tradition at the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" -- albeit one not shown on TV -- from the stands at the Brickyard, here's the invocation given before the green flag (and a crowd of some 400,000) at Sunday's Indianapolis 500 by the apostolic administrator of the vacant Hoosier church: the blogging, tweeting, self-described "stah," Bishop Chris Coyne....
Fulfilling Mass obligation at SSPX chapels: Has there been a reversal?
Fulfilling Mass Obligation at SSPX chapels: Has there been a reversal? | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Someone submitted a question to the Pontifical Commission “Ecclesia Dei” about whether or not we fulfilled our obligation on days of precept (i.e., Sundays, Holy Days of �Obligation), by attending Holy Mass at a chapel of the Society of St. Pius X. �The position of the Holy See hitherto has always been ‘Yes’.
Some asked, and here is the transcript of the letter found at Queen of Martyrs Press.
And let this be a lesson to people who ask question!
Some asked, and here is the transcript of the letter found at Queen of Martyrs Press.
And let this be a lesson to people who ask question!
Male happiness: What men really want...
Male Happiness: What Men Really Want | Catholic LaneKLEPONIS: As a therapist, people often ask me, “What makes men happy?” Some believe it’s a happy marriage, a successful career, or a strong relationship with God. I say it’s all of these! However, they must be kept in the right order. I believe the secret for a happy life for men is having one’s priorities in order.
While there are countless priorities we men must attend to in life, I divide them into seven categories...
While there are countless priorities we men must attend to in life, I divide them into seven categories...
Video: An amazing finish at an elementary school field day...
Boy Inspires Kids - Kids Inspire Us All (Amazing Finish) - YouTube: Matt has Spastic Cerebral Palsy, but opted to run in Field Day at Colonial Hills Elementary School despite being given the option to sit it out and despite the incredible challenge of his disability. What transpires is a boy who is filled with determination and a school of children who spontaneously come together and inspire Matt and everyone of us to do and be better.
Explore historic sites with Google's new World Wonders Project
Explore historic sites with the World Wonders Project | Official Google Blog: I’ve always been fascinated by famous historic and cultural sites from around the world. When I was a child, flipping through encyclopedias while researching for school projects, the thought of exploring these sites was a distant dream. With the new Google World Wonders Project, that dream is now a little closer for students and others around the globe.
The World Wonders Project enables you to discover 132 historic sites from 18 countries, including Stonehenge, the archaeological areas of Pompeii and the ancient Kyoto temples. In addition to man-made sites, you can explore natural places: wander the sandy dunes of Australia’s Shark Bay or gaze up at the rock domes of Yosemite National Park in California.
The World Wonders Project enables you to discover 132 historic sites from 18 countries, including Stonehenge, the archaeological areas of Pompeii and the ancient Kyoto temples. In addition to man-made sites, you can explore natural places: wander the sandy dunes of Australia’s Shark Bay or gaze up at the rock domes of Yosemite National Park in California.
Protestant pastor dies handling snakes...
Protestant Pastor Dies Handling SnakesLONGENECKER: Snake handling is still going on in the United States. This article reports the recent death of a pastor who was bitten by a timber rattlesnake. Apparently the pastor witnessed his own father’s death after a rattlesnake bite, but continued with the practice. I commented on the theological implications of snake handling a few days ago here.
The gist of the article is that snake handlers are only doing what all Protestants do–whether they are liberal and urbane sherry sipping Anglican bishops or gun totin’ hillbilly preachers from Kentucky. Whether they are nicely suited pastors in suburban American churches or �members of a wild-eyed apocalyptic sect.
The gist of the article is that snake handlers are only doing what all Protestants do–whether they are liberal and urbane sherry sipping Anglican bishops or gun totin’ hillbilly preachers from Kentucky. Whether they are nicely suited pastors in suburban American churches or �members of a wild-eyed apocalyptic sect.
10 tips for new Catholic bloggers...
Truth & CharityMURPHY: A month and a half ago, I wrote a piece on the ten signs you might be called to be a Catholic blogger. Among those signs, I mentioned passion, humor, knowledge, dynamism, and facial hair. Since then, I suspect some of you have moved forward with your plans to be bloggers. Therefore, in addition to the aforementioned personal qualities, I’ve compiled a list of things that may help you form your blog.
Who is raising our children?
Who is Raising our Children? : The Integrated Catholic LifeHAIN: It is a gross understatement to say that we live in very trying times.� Religious liberty is under attack, our country is at war, the economy is struggling, atheists are one of the fastest growing groups in our country and our families are under siege.� My intent is not to depress you, but get your attention on the reality of the world in which we live.� In times of adversity, many of us slow down, take stock and reevaluate our priorities.
Who is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit: A Commentary by Fr. Barron - YouTubeBARRON: One of my favorite texts in the New Testament is Galatians 5.
When you're a priest, people ask all the time, "How do I know
what God wants me to do? How do I know what the will of God is?
How do I know I'm walking the right path?" I tell them to look at
Galatians 5, which contains two wonderful passages.
When you're a priest, people ask all the time, "How do I know
what God wants me to do? How do I know what the will of God is?
How do I know I'm walking the right path?" I tell them to look at
Galatians 5, which contains two wonderful passages.
Widows point us to what we should all be doing: waiting and dating for eternity...
Widowhood: Dating for Eternity | IgnitumTodayRODRIGUES: Widows have always been a group of people that tug on my heartstrings. What is more tragic than a young husband or wife with small children who becomes a widow? Even an elderly person who wistfully talks about their deceased spouse seems condemned to a particularly cruel and fruitless existence. Elderly couples are endearing, but elderly widows seem painfully solitary.
Confessions of an ex-LifeTeen musician...
Truth & CharitySCIBA: A musician who loves to play for a crowd will adapt to whatever crowd is available to listen.� When my musical high school youth minister moved away from Plano, I took over playing the praise and worship music that had been a regular part of the Wednesday night youth group.� This eventually led to the forming of our high-school band, Opus Dei and the Knights, comprised of a few friends, my brother Matt (on bass) and the LifeTeen worship leader, Joe (on drums).
Gay marriage in merry England: Prime Minister David Cameron is pushing for same-sex marriage, but most Brits are wary...
Merry England Fights Over Gay Marriage: Catholic World Report: The contrast could hardly have been more jarring.
In a televised White House interview on Wednesday, May 9, President Barack Obama claimed that, having gone through an evolution on the issue, he had concluded, “it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same-sex couples should be able to get married.”
That same day, an ocean away in England, Queen Elizabeth II opened the current session of Parliament, for the 60th time in her reign sitting in her House of Lords throne to proclaim her government’s legislative program for that year. Wearing her Imperial State Crown and parliamentary robe, she spoke for eight minutes, and on the issue of same-sex marriage, said absolutely nothing.
In a televised White House interview on Wednesday, May 9, President Barack Obama claimed that, having gone through an evolution on the issue, he had concluded, “it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same-sex couples should be able to get married.”
That same day, an ocean away in England, Queen Elizabeth II opened the current session of Parliament, for the 60th time in her reign sitting in her House of Lords throne to proclaim her government’s legislative program for that year. Wearing her Imperial State Crown and parliamentary robe, she spoke for eight minutes, and on the issue of same-sex marriage, said absolutely nothing.
U.S. House to vote Thursday on sex-selective abortion ban...
House debates abortion ban for sex of fetus - CNN.com: One of the most divisive issues in politics is set to take center stage in Congress on Thursday as the House of Representatives votes on a measure banning abortions based on the sex of a fetus.
Supporters characterize the proposal as a necessary defense of the civil rights of unborn children; opponents consider it part of a broader so-called "war on women" and an ongoing assault on legalized abortion.
Supporters characterize the proposal as a necessary defense of the civil rights of unborn children; opponents consider it part of a broader so-called "war on women" and an ongoing assault on legalized abortion.
Catholic bishops who blog, Tweet, and use Facebook
Aggie Catholics: Catholic Bishops Who Blog, Tweet, and use FacebookLEJEUNE: I tried to track down all of the bishops in the United States who blog, tweet, and use Facebook. This list does not include diocesan staff-run efforts, but only those that are done primarily or solely by the Bishops themselves.
Archbishop Fulton Sheen would be proud of these men.
Archbishop Fulton Sheen would be proud of these men.
Video: You might be a Catholic if...
You Might Be a Catholic If... - YouTube: You might be a Catholic if . . . you've ever prayed to St. Anthony to find a parking space.
The extraordinary witness of ordinary people: Viva Cristo Rey!
The extraordinary witness of ordinary people: Viva Cristo Rey! - Catholic PhillyCHAPUT: Earlier this week we celebrated Memorial Day. For most of us, the holiday informally marks the start of summer. Over the next three months families will take their vacations, the pace of life will slow a bit and people will have a little more precious time to relax and restore their spirits.
The purpose of recreation is to renew us in body and soul; to give us time to think; to reconnect us with family and the gift of being alive. For me, that usually means a week of fishing with friends, catching up on a pile of good books and enjoying a few good movies.
And since all good things are meant to be shared, I can already recommend — in fact, enthusiastically recommend — a film that no Catholic should miss this summer.
The purpose of recreation is to renew us in body and soul; to give us time to think; to reconnect us with family and the gift of being alive. For me, that usually means a week of fishing with friends, catching up on a pile of good books and enjoying a few good movies.
And since all good things are meant to be shared, I can already recommend — in fact, enthusiastically recommend — a film that no Catholic should miss this summer.
Has Bishop Ratko Perić softened his opposition to Medjugorje?
Te Deum laudamus!: Full Translation: Bishop's 2012 Confirmation Homily in MedjugorjeKORZENIEWSKI: After reading a story about the 2012 Confirmation homily of Bishop Ratko Perić in Medjugorje, I decided to ask Fr. Philip Pavich for a complete translation.
There is much to take into consideration with regards to context. No one can read the mind of the bishop to know for certain what his exact concerns are, but it is clear that he is a shepherd encouraging his people to avoid sin and live virtuously.
There is much to take into consideration with regards to context. No one can read the mind of the bishop to know for certain what his exact concerns are, but it is clear that he is a shepherd encouraging his people to avoid sin and live virtuously.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Everything you need to know about next week’s Transit of Venus...
Everything you need to know about next week’s Transit of Venus | Bad Astronomy | Discover Magazine: On Tuesday/Wednesday June 5/6, Earth will have the best seat — the only seat — for a great show: the Transit of Venus across the face of the Sun. This is a relatively rare event, and the next one won’t happen until December 10, 2117, so I’m guessing this will be the last time you’ll be able to see it.
I have a lot of info below, so I’ve broken it up into sections. Also, a special note: Fraser Cain, Pamela Gay, and I are hosting a live online video chat star party for the transit! That live video feed will be embedded here on the blog at the time of the transit, so if you read this blog — and you do — you’ll see it. I’ll have more info closer to the date.
I have a lot of info below, so I’ve broken it up into sections. Also, a special note: Fraser Cain, Pamela Gay, and I are hosting a live online video chat star party for the transit! That live video feed will be embedded here on the blog at the time of the transit, so if you read this blog — and you do — you’ll see it. I’ll have more info closer to the date.
In defense of the mosquito: 10 things you should know about summer's biggest annoyance...
In Defense of the Mosquito: 10 Things to Know About Summer’s Biggest Annoyance - Mental Floss: Between the itching and the welts and the fears of West Nile, it’s easy to forget that mosquitoes are a wonder of evolution, and maybe they don’t really get a fair shake from us. Of over 3,000 known species, only 80 actually bite people, and at least one eats other mosquitoes for us. They grow from egg to adult in just five days, begin mating within minutes of hatching, and possess, by way of their stinging mouthparts, some of the coolest appendages in the animal kingdom. While I swat at them as much as the next guy, I think maybe it’s time we sit down and give skeeters a little credit for all the wonderful weirdness they’ve got going on.
Ontario considers proposal to force Gay-Straight Alliances on Catholic schools
Ontario could impose Gay-Straight Alliances on Catholic schools :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The provincial government of Ontario is considering a proposal that would force Catholic schools to recognize Gay-Straight Alliances, causing Catholic leaders to say it risks threatening religious freedom and could allow clubs that undermine Church teaching.
Marino Gazzola, president of the Ontario Catholic School Trustees Association, said that the Catholic schools are concerned that the government has proposed an amendment "aimed directly" at Catholic school boards� and the trustees' association "as we have been vocal opponents to the imposition of� Gay-Straight Alliances on Catholic schools from the outset."
Marino Gazzola, president of the Ontario Catholic School Trustees Association, said that the Catholic schools are concerned that the government has proposed an amendment "aimed directly" at Catholic school boards� and the trustees' association "as we have been vocal opponents to the imposition of� Gay-Straight Alliances on Catholic schools from the outset."
I finally saw George Clooney's 'The Descendants'. Here's what bugged me so much about that movie...
Why I'm Still Mad About THE DESCENDANTS |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: There is nothing more frustrating than a movie that could have been good, but just plain isn't.� Oh, there were some good things about it.� It's beautifully shot, and, as a Reel Faith review points out, it treats both end-of-life decisions and adultery as extremely serious issues.
This movie tries so very hard, from the very first moments, to shake you out of your illusions.� It warns and warns you that things are not what you think they will be:� George Clooney's voiceover as Matt King spells it out for us, explaining that life in Hawaii is no paradise -- that the people there have just the same pain and suffering as people anywhere.� “THIS IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT,” the movie fairly screams.
This movie tries so very hard, from the very first moments, to shake you out of your illusions.� It warns and warns you that things are not what you think they will be:� George Clooney's voiceover as Matt King spells it out for us, explaining that life in Hawaii is no paradise -- that the people there have just the same pain and suffering as people anywhere.� “THIS IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT,” the movie fairly screams.
5 questions to ask before you leave the Catholic Church...
5 Questions Before You Leave the Catholic Church |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: When people cite the pedophilia scandals as a key reason for abandoning the Church, I worry that they're setting themselves up for deep disappointment. The fact that priests abused children is an idea so horrific that one can hardly bear to think about it, and the fact that some bishops didn't take action to stop it is almost worse. But the chilling fact -- perhaps so chilling that we don't can't accept it -- is that this is not a problem with Catholic priests and bishops; it's a problem with human nature. A priest is no more likely to abuse a child than a male schoolteacher, and a bishop is no more likely to cover it up than a school administrator.
It just works...
just showing up: It just worksHELDT: You've heard the old adage "Know thyself", right? Well, when it comes to being a mother, I am anything but a recreation director, and am far from being any sort of fun-activities-for-children guru. I make meals and fold laundry and explain arithmetic and writing lessons. I teach my children the Catechism and make sure to have lots of conversations and cuddling with them throughout the day. I allow them to play freely and use their imaginations. We visit with friends. We read. We do life. And it is in this crucible where conflicts are resolved, where hugs are doled out, where owies are kissed and where discipline and training occur. It is crazy simple, but it works.
Vatican academy mulls how pro-life is pro-life enough
Vatican academy mulls how pro-life is pro-life enough | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: In the normally tranquil world of the Vatican, where keeping up at least the appearance of unity is a fine art, the Pontifical Academy for Life has long been something of an outlier. There, internal tensions have a habit of erupting into full public view.
The latest such row, featuring a public call from academy members for its papally appointed leadership to resign, pivots in part on the question of just how “pro-life” is pro-life enough to faithfully represent Catholic teaching.
The latest such row, featuring a public call from academy members for its papally appointed leadership to resign, pivots in part on the question of just how “pro-life” is pro-life enough to faithfully represent Catholic teaching.
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor – A Reflection on the 8th Commandment | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: The Eighth Commandment proclaims the splendor and the beauty of the truth. It is not often that we hear of the truth described in this way, but consider how precious and essential a foundation the truth is for our lives.
Without the truth there can be no trust, and without trust there can be no relationships with others. Without the truth there is cynicism, fear, and an atmosphere of exclusion and secrecy. Without the truth, lives are ruined or lost by error and falsehood. Without the truth, countless men, women and children are misled by deceitful and destructive philosophies that sow confusion and error.
Without the truth there can be no trust, and without trust there can be no relationships with others. Without the truth there is cynicism, fear, and an atmosphere of exclusion and secrecy. Without the truth, lives are ruined or lost by error and falsehood. Without the truth, countless men, women and children are misled by deceitful and destructive philosophies that sow confusion and error.
In Buffalo, Moving Days
Whispers in the Loggia: In Buffalo, Moving DaysPALMO: Home to some 700,000 Catholics today, the Buffalo church -- which numbered close to a million members in past decades -- is over three times the size of Portland's. Yet in what could be the most emblematic sign of American Catholicism's historic demographic shift away from the old Northeastern bastions toward parts South and West, a metro Atlanta parish has been engaged in a years-long effort to move a closed, basilica-style Buffalo church (above) to the Georgia suburbs to serve as its worship-space.
10 ways for men to fix their family-work balance...
10 Ways for Men to Increase Family-Work Balance | Kevin Lowry: A Grateful ConvertLOWRY: My wife got run off the road today.
Some guy was in a big hurry and didn’t like the fact that Kathi had slowed down to merge onto the highway behind a school bus full of children. So he accelerated from behind her car, and drove up beside her, forcing her onto the berm. After almost causing multiple accidents, he weaved his way around further impediments in his road (OK, people in his road) and exited precisely five cars in front of her further down the highway. Unbelievable.
Some guy was in a big hurry and didn’t like the fact that Kathi had slowed down to merge onto the highway behind a school bus full of children. So he accelerated from behind her car, and drove up beside her, forcing her onto the berm. After almost causing multiple accidents, he weaved his way around further impediments in his road (OK, people in his road) and exited precisely five cars in front of her further down the highway. Unbelievable.
Transcendentalism has its problems, but Catholics shouldn't Thoreau the baby out with the bathwater...
Truth & CharityMURPHY: Transcendentalism seems quite a bit like secular humanism and Unitarianism combined, a boundless confidence in the goodness of human nature and a condemnation of the violence supposedly done to it by social structures, such as political bodies and organized religion. Anti-Transcendentalism, on the other hand, focuses to a Calvinist degree on the sinfulness of man and his inability to change for the better.
The authority of the first popes
Authority of the First PopesLONGENECKER: Some time ago an acquaintance from my days as a fundamentalist sent me an email. Kevin had become a Baptist pastor and was disappointed that I had been “deceived by the Catholic Church”. He wanted to know my reasons for becoming Catholic.
I get such emails from time to time, and rather than get involved in arguments about purgatory or candles or Mary worship or indulgences, I usually cut straight to the point and try to engage my correspondent with the question of authority in the Church.
I get such emails from time to time, and rather than get involved in arguments about purgatory or candles or Mary worship or indulgences, I usually cut straight to the point and try to engage my correspondent with the question of authority in the Church.
An interview with Archbishop Timothy Broglio, head of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military Services...
Head of Catholic Archdiocese for the Military Remembers Soldiers’ Sacrifices | Daily News | NCRegister.comBEATTIE: Religious faith is seen by some people as poisonous to good citizenship. One’s religious beliefs are expected to be kept private if they are not in conformity with the secularist mindset. Matters such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ mandate are seen as demands to which any good citizen would acquiesce.
Pope Benedict breaks silence over Vatileaks scandal
My Way News - Pope breaks silence over Vatileaks scandal: Pope Benedict XVI broke his silence Wednesday over the leaked documents scandal that has convulsed the Vatican, saying he was saddened by the betrayal but grateful to those aides who work faithfully and in silence to help him do his job.
Benedict made his first direct comments on the scandal in off-the-cuff remarks at the end of his weekly general audience. He lashed out at some of the media reports about the scandal, saying the "exaggerated" and "gratuitous" rumors had offered a false image of the Holy See.
Benedict made his first direct comments on the scandal in off-the-cuff remarks at the end of his weekly general audience. He lashed out at some of the media reports about the scandal, saying the "exaggerated" and "gratuitous" rumors had offered a false image of the Holy See.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
If hope is certain, why can't I be sure of my own salvation?
If hope is certain, why can't I be sure of my own salvation? | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: What makes theological hope different from natural and worldly hope is, first and foremost, the object to which the will is inclined. Natural hope directs us to desire certain natural things – for example, good weather or financial security – and it can even direct us toward God according to our human powers (we can be moved to hope in God as our Creator, as the first Cause, and prime-Mover). However, natural hope cannot move us to desire that which is above and beyond our nature – natural hope will never move us to even desire (much less effectively tend toward) heaven.
Polish historian reveals John Paul II was spied on by the priests closest to him...
Polish historian reveals John Paul II was spied on by the priests closest to him - Vatican InsiderTORNIELLI: The extent to which the communist secret police controlled Karol Wojtyla’s actions was incredible…” Marek Lasota who was born in 1960 and has a degree in Polish philosophy, with a specialism in history, lives among mounds of letters accumulated by the communist regime and kept in the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN), where he is head of the Krakow section. After years of patient research, he has gathered a number of reports and dossiers on Wojtyla. Lasota’s “Karol Wojtyla spiato” (Spying on Karol Wojtyla), published by Intercienze, comes out in Italian in just a few days. The book is a collection of the regime’s secret documents on the pope who passed away in 2005.In an interview with Italian newspaper La Stampa the scholar also revealed the names of some collaborationist priests whom he mentions in the book.
Rapture or Rupture?
Rapture or Rupture?LONGENECKER: A year after Rev Harold Camping’s followers messed up on doomsday and the rapture didn’t happen Patrick Archbold links to a sympathetic article on the followers who were ”left behind” when Jesus didn’t turn up in glory. They didn’t experience the rapture, but they did experience a rupture–in their belief system. Matt notices that this article observes that “most mainstream Christians” believe in the rapture, and he goes on to point out that this just ain’t so. Read his post here.
Vatican calls attention to recently published norms on presumed apparitions...
Vatican Publishes Norms on Presumed Apparitions |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: The Vatican drew attention today to the recent publication of hitherto unofficially published norms regarding discernment of presumed apparitions.
In a statement, it said the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith had recently published the norms which were originally approved by Pope Paul VI and issued by the congregation in 1978.
The Vatican said they were not officially released to the public until now because they were “principally intended as a direct aid for the pastors of the Church.” But it added that over the years the document had appeared in “various works” without the permission of the CDF.
In a statement, it said the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith had recently published the norms which were originally approved by Pope Paul VI and issued by the congregation in 1978.
The Vatican said they were not officially released to the public until now because they were “principally intended as a direct aid for the pastors of the Church.” But it added that over the years the document had appeared in “various works” without the permission of the CDF.
From the bench to the pulpit: At 66, former Florida judge is ordained to the priesthood...
From the bench to the pulpit: At 66, former judge becomes priest | TBO.com: By the time you reach your 60's, you'll probably be thinking about retirement, but not Tim Corcoran. At age 66, he's changing careers to serve a higher authority.
A host of new findings has revealed more weird stuff going on 1,800 miles beneath your feet...
Earth’s Core - The Enigma 1,800 Miles Below Us - NYTimes.com: As if the inside story of our planet weren’t already the ultimate potboiler, a host of new findings has just turned the heat up past Stygian.
Geologists have long known that Earth’s core, some 1,800 miles beneath our feet, is a dense, chemically doped ball of iron roughly the size of Mars and every bit as alien. It’s a place where pressures bear down with the weight of 3.5 million atmospheres, like 3.5 million skies falling at once on your head, and where temperatures reach 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit — as hot as the surface of the Sun. It’s a place where the term “ironclad agreement” has no meaning, since iron can’t even agree with itself on what form to take. It’s a fluid, it’s a solid, it’s twisting and spiraling like liquid confetti.
Geologists have long known that Earth’s core, some 1,800 miles beneath our feet, is a dense, chemically doped ball of iron roughly the size of Mars and every bit as alien. It’s a place where pressures bear down with the weight of 3.5 million atmospheres, like 3.5 million skies falling at once on your head, and where temperatures reach 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit — as hot as the surface of the Sun. It’s a place where the term “ironclad agreement” has no meaning, since iron can’t even agree with itself on what form to take. It’s a fluid, it’s a solid, it’s twisting and spiraling like liquid confetti.
This beautiful 500-year-old painting is the earliest depiction of Down syndrome in art. Which raises an old patristic question: Should such children be baptized?
Should Mentally Handicapped People and Children be Baptized? ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: In the painting above, Adoration of the Christ Child by an unknown Flemish painting, you will see that a child with Down syndrome is alongside the Blessed Virgin Mary adoring the Christ Child. This 16th century painting is the earliest clear depiction of Down syndrome - it is here recorded in paint over three centuries before the condition was defined by John Langdon Down in 1866.
The painting evokes a common question about the status of mentally handicapped people and their relationship to the Catholic Church. Should mentally handicapped people be baptized? This question was of a subject of debate in the early Church and a topic of great interest in the middle ages.
The painting evokes a common question about the status of mentally handicapped people and their relationship to the Catholic Church. Should mentally handicapped people be baptized? This question was of a subject of debate in the early Church and a topic of great interest in the middle ages.
Disney's Snow White is still the fairest one of all...
The Fairest One of All |Blogs | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is widely celebrated as a beginning, the first feature-length animated film in Hollywood history. It’s just as correct, though, and perhaps more illuminating, to hail it as a culmination — as the crowning achievement of years of experimentation, discovery, growth and achievement by Disney’s animation team.
A decade earlier, with the landmark short Steamboat Willie, Disney had pioneered the union of animation and sound, including synchronized music, opening the door to the groundbreaking “Silly Symphonies” series, and paving the road for the later masterpiece Fantasia. In the 1932 short The Three Little Pigs Disney took animation storytelling to a new level, with a cast of distinct characters with unique personalities and unique body language.
A decade earlier, with the landmark short Steamboat Willie, Disney had pioneered the union of animation and sound, including synchronized music, opening the door to the groundbreaking “Silly Symphonies” series, and paving the road for the later masterpiece Fantasia. In the 1932 short The Three Little Pigs Disney took animation storytelling to a new level, with a cast of distinct characters with unique personalities and unique body language.
Sigrid Undset’s essays for our time...
Sigrid Undset’s Essays for our Time | First ThingsSCALIA: Nearly a century has passed since Sigrid Undset wrote the biographical essays about holy men and women, and the letters, which eventually would be collected and published under the heading, Stages on the Road. It is a title evocative of the life of faith, wholly explored and lived-out—unpacked depot by depot, as it were—from the spiritual nursery, to precarious venturing forth, to stepping back in wonder or doubt, to the nearly inevitable and deepening darkness that, for all its pain, accesses an interior cave of Oneness, solitary yet completed in the companionship of the Christ. This last is something akin to what Saint Catherine of Siena referred to as the inner cell or the “cell of true self-knowledge.” Undset, like Catherine a Third Order Dominican, shared with that clear-eyed Doctor an impatience with the sort of illusions bred by social conventions and encouraged by trends.
For only $2, you can put an entire digital Catholic library in the hands of an African seminarian...
Africa eBook Project -- IndiegogoVOGT: In Cameroon, Africa, books are scarce--especially the good ones. Which means few Catholics have access to quality spiritual reading. Fr. Linus, who is studying at one of the Cameroon seminaries, explains:
"One of the key problems the Church in Cameroon is facing, as in many parts of Africa, is that Christians do not read. And if they do, it's very thin. Most know very little about the Catholic faith and the situation is worst among the young people."
But what if we could change that, patricularly in the seminaries? What if we could provide good Catholic books to every future-priest in the country?
With eBooks and new media, I think we can.
"One of the key problems the Church in Cameroon is facing, as in many parts of Africa, is that Christians do not read. And if they do, it's very thin. Most know very little about the Catholic faith and the situation is worst among the young people."
But what if we could change that, patricularly in the seminaries? What if we could provide good Catholic books to every future-priest in the country?
With eBooks and new media, I think we can.
Pope names new bishop for Buffalo, New York: Bishop Richard Malone, formerly of Portland in Maine...
Pope gives Buffalo diocese new bishop :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Bishop Richard J. Malone has been appointed as the new head of the Diocese of Buffalo, N.Y.
“I am most grateful to our Holy Father for his trust in appointing me Bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo,” he said in a May 29 statement.
Although he is saddened to leave the faithful of his current diocese in Portland, Maine, Bishop Malone said he looks forward “with enthusiasm” to taking up his responsibility in Buffalo.
“I am most grateful to our Holy Father for his trust in appointing me Bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo,” he said in a May 29 statement.
Although he is saddened to leave the faithful of his current diocese in Portland, Maine, Bishop Malone said he looks forward “with enthusiasm” to taking up his responsibility in Buffalo.
Watch live: Press conference to welcome Bishop Samuel Aquila to Denver...
Archdiocese of Denver - live streaming video powered by Livestream: Via Livestream. The Archdiocese of Denver serves the Catholic population of the Denver metropolitan area and northern Colorado.
Archbishop-designate Samuel Aquila: "I never, ever dreamed that I would ever return to Denver"...
Joy overcomes Denver's future archbishop :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): As Archbishop-designate Samuel J. Aquila of Fargo, N.D. assumes his role as Denver's new shepherd, the former Coloradan brings with him a love for the priesthood, a passion for pro-life advocacy and a heart for the youth.
“I never, ever dreamed that I would ever return here,” he told CNA. “And now in the Father's providential plan and in his love, I'm now the archbishop.”
“It's amazing,” he said, overcome with emotion.
“I never, ever dreamed that I would ever return here,” he told CNA. “And now in the Father's providential plan and in his love, I'm now the archbishop.”
“It's amazing,” he said, overcome with emotion.
It's not just China and India: Undercover video shows Austin Planned Parenthood affiliate arranging sex-selection abortion...
Sex-Selective Abortion Thrives in America, Courtesy Planned Parenthood: Today, Live Action released a new undercover video showing a Planned Parenthood abortion clinic in Austin, TX encouraging a woman to obtain a late-term abortion because she was purportedly carrying a girl and wanted to have a boy. The video is first in a new series titled “Gendercide: Sex-Selection in America,” exposing the practice of sex-selective abortion in the United States and how Planned Parenthood and the rest of the abortion industry facilitate the selective elimination of baby girls in the womb.
Along with the Denver appointment, the Pope has named a new bishop for Buffalo, New York: Bishop Richard Malone, formerly of Portland in Maine...
Whispers in the Loggia: Tuesday Morning High: It's official now -- at this Roman Noon, the Pope has named Bishop Sam Aquila of Fargo as the fifth archbishop of Denver, and Bishop Richard Malone of Portland in Maine has been tapped to lead the 700,000-member Buffalo diocese on the retirement of Bishop Edward Kmiec, who reached the retirement age of 75 last 4 June and has reportedly been in poor health.
The Tuesday Line
Whispers in the Loggia: The Tuesday LinePALMO: Tomorrow brings the beginning of the much-anticipated Washington board meeting of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, at which the umbrella-group representing the superiors of some 80 percent of the nation's sisters is expected to address last month's CDF order for a sweeping "renewal" of its mission. In the wake of the wildly controversial Vatican move -- which saw protests in a number of US cities last week -- LCWR has refrained from comment on the outcome of the four-year Doctrinal Assessment until this week's gathering, which runs through Thursday.
The "Eagle" Returns: Fargo's Bishop Samuel Aquila headed home to become Archbishop of Denver
Whispers in the Loggia: The "Eagle" Returns -- Sources: Fargo's Aquila Headed Home to DenverPALMO: Much as the shop was planning to hold for Roman Noon, after a late leak to the Mile High City's ABC affiliate, we can proceed.
Earlier tonight, three Whispers sources confirmed that Pope Benedict is to name Bishop Samuel Aquila, 61 -- the Denver-bred head of North Dakota's Fargo diocese since 2001 -- as his hometown's fifth archbishop at Roman Noon today.
As noted below, the putative appointee is slated to appear at the traditional 10am press conference before leading an evening Mass in the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
Earlier tonight, three Whispers sources confirmed that Pope Benedict is to name Bishop Samuel Aquila, 61 -- the Denver-bred head of North Dakota's Fargo diocese since 2001 -- as his hometown's fifth archbishop at Roman Noon today.
As noted below, the putative appointee is slated to appear at the traditional 10am press conference before leading an evening Mass in the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Democrat committeewoman resigns from party, cites her Catholic faith...
Democrat Commiteewoman Resigns from Party, Cites Her Catholic Faith |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: Jo Ann Nardelli has been a Catholic Democrat her entire life. Her father was one before her. And she couldn't imagine a day where that wouldn't be true.
But that day was Wednesday of last week.�
I read a story about Jo Ann leaving the Democratic Party and was interested because she cited her Catholic faith as the reason.
So I gave her a call. I got her machine and as I was leaving a message she picked up. She said she'd been screening her calls because so many people have been calling to say nasty things to her or just pleading with her to change her mind. But when I called, saying I was with The National Catholic Register she picked up.
But that day was Wednesday of last week.�
I read a story about Jo Ann leaving the Democratic Party and was interested because she cited her Catholic faith as the reason.
So I gave her a call. I got her machine and as I was leaving a message she picked up. She said she'd been screening her calls because so many people have been calling to say nasty things to her or just pleading with her to change her mind. But when I called, saying I was with The National Catholic Register she picked up.
How modern heresies have isolated and left us unfulfilled...
How Modern Heresies Have Isolated and Left Us Unfulfilled | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I have mentioned here before a remarkable book by Ross Douthat that I would recommend as required reading for anyone who wants to grasp what has happened faith in the later half of the 20th Century and until now. It is Bad Religion – How we became a nation of heretics. In the book Douthat documents how the churches, (both the Catholic Church and the Protestant denominations), rose dramatically in the years following the War, and then, quite suddenly saw their numbers collapse as they were overwhelmed with successive waves of heresies he describes with great precision.
Imagine Sisters is some awesomeness you should all be aware of...
Imagine SistersBARNES: Given that nuns are awesome, and that this seems to me to be the first comprehensive, web-based promotion of the female religious life and that nuns are awesome, you should all share this with your family, friends, church, schools, etc. Let’s get these sisters to every campus in the U.S.
Google warns hundreds of thousands that they may suddenly lose Internet in July. Are you affected? Here's what you need to know...
Google warns hundreds of thousands may lose Internet in July | Fox News: Google plans to warn more than half a million users of a computer infection that may knock their computers off the Internet this summer.
Unknown to most of them, their problem began when international hackers ran an online advertising scam to take control of infected computers around the world. In a highly unusual response, the FBI set up a safety net months ago using government computers to prevent Internet disruptions for those infected users. But that system will be shut down July 9 -- killing connections for those people.
Unknown to most of them, their problem began when international hackers ran an online advertising scam to take control of infected computers around the world. In a highly unusual response, the FBI set up a safety net months ago using government computers to prevent Internet disruptions for those infected users. But that system will be shut down July 9 -- killing connections for those people.
Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church becomes the 73rd basilica in the U.S., and Long Island's first...
1st LI Roman Catholic basilica in Southampton: During a Mass and dedication Sunday, Diocese of Rockville Centre Bishop William Murphy inaugurated the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church in Southampton into a minor basilica, an elevated status from that of a parish church.
"In this basilica, the graces of God will fall ever more abundantly," Murphy said during the ceremony, which now means the church can display the coat of arms of Vatican City on its facade and use the crossed keys of St. Peter on furnishings and appointments.
"In this basilica, the graces of God will fall ever more abundantly," Murphy said during the ceremony, which now means the church can display the coat of arms of Vatican City on its facade and use the crossed keys of St. Peter on furnishings and appointments.
Pope "suffering but serene" as Vatileaks investigation continues...
Pope suffering but serene as Vatileaks investigation continues :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Benedict is “suffering” but serene, despite the prosecution of his butler for stealing sensitive papal documents and the continuing police hunt to find any accomplices.
“He is aware of the delicate situation that the Roman curia is going through, but he is keeping up his serenity with great faith and moral superiority as you saw in yesterday’s celebrations,” papal spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi said May 28.
“He is aware of the delicate situation that the Roman curia is going through, but he is keeping up his serenity with great faith and moral superiority as you saw in yesterday’s celebrations,” papal spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi said May 28.
Pope to name new archbishop for Denver, possibly other U.S. dioceses, at 6:30am EDT Tuesday
x: Watch New Advent for more details.
Archbishop Lori and the First Principle...
Archbishop Lori and the First Principle - Kathryn Jean Lopez - National Review OnlineLOPEZ: Confronted with a “train wreck,” the new archbishop of Baltimore implores us to “pray diligently as communities, as families, and as individuals.”
Coming from clergy, this wouldn’t necessarily be breaking news, except the train hurtling toward us is driven by the current president of the United States and his secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius. Under Obamacare, the secretary has unprecedented power to make health-care decisions affecting every American. The recent HHS mandate — requiring all employers, regardless of moral objections, to offer health-care coverage that includes contraception, sterilization, and abortion-inducing drugs — is the poisonous fruit of that power.
Coming from clergy, this wouldn’t necessarily be breaking news, except the train hurtling toward us is driven by the current president of the United States and his secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius. Under Obamacare, the secretary has unprecedented power to make health-care decisions affecting every American. The recent HHS mandate — requiring all employers, regardless of moral objections, to offer health-care coverage that includes contraception, sterilization, and abortion-inducing drugs — is the poisonous fruit of that power.
Since Jesus and Mary were perfect, why would they experience anguish and sadness?
How were Jesus and Mary able to remain perfect even during great anguish and sadness? - Roman Catholic Spiritual DirectionBARTUNEK: St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Exercises is, basically, a guide for retreat directors. It outlines a series of meditation topics, methods of prayer, and principles to help in the process of “the discernment of spirits.” The first set of principles for discernment deal with interpreting the experience of spiritual consolation and spiritual desolation. He goes into great detail defining those terms and describing what he means by them. He does this in order to help retreatants and retreat directors learn to identify and process what is going on inside the soul as a person seeks to follow God more closely. In the first two rules for the discernment of spirits, he makes two critical observations.
Nun wars: Oh, for Pete’s sake, quote the Vatican accurately...
Nun wars: For Pete’s sake, quote the Vatican � GetReligionMATTINGLY: At the heart of the whole U.S. nuns vs. the Vatican media storm is the April 18th “doctrinal assessment” in which the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith expresses it concerns about the theological orientation expressed by the leadership of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. The report mentions a host of concerns about a decade or two of LCWR educational events, speeches, national conferences, etc.
Q&A on the Vatican’s ‘butler did it’ story
Q&A on the Vatican’s ‘butler did it’ story | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Paolo Gabriele is a 46-year-old Italian layman, with a wife and three children, who’s worked in the papal apartment since 1998. Gabriele was hired by the personal secretary of Pope John Paul II, Stanislaw Dziwisz, today the cardinal of Krakow. Gabriele’s role was mostly to see to the pope’s clothing, to serve his meals, and to be on hand for other personal needs. He performed the same functions for John Paul and Benedict when they were on the road, travelling on the papal plane.
Memorare! On Memorial Day...
Memorare! On Memorial Day | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Memorial Day, for many, means the beginning of Summer. To others, it is a day off to shop. But, as I am sure you really know Memorial Day is a day to honor those who have died in the service of this country.
The word “memorial” comes from the Latin Memorare which is in an imperative meaning: “Remember!” So, Memorial Day is “Remember! Day.”
The word “memorial” comes from the Latin Memorare which is in an imperative meaning: “Remember!” So, Memorial Day is “Remember! Day.”
When future generations look back at our time, they may well decide that the current headlines pale into insignificance next to a far more important development...
Addiction: the coming epidemic – Telegraph BlogsTHOMPSON: When future generations look back at the early 21st century, they may well decide that its political turmoil — the collapse of the euro, the spread of Islam, the rise of China — pales into insignificance next to a far more important development: a fundamental change in the relationship between human beings and their social environment.
This was the moment in history, they may conclude, when our species mastered the art of manipulating its brain chemistry to produce intense bursts of short-term pleasure. As a result, billions of people began to have more fun than their minds and bodies could handle — and developed insidious, life-sapping addictions. I did so myself.
This was the moment in history, they may conclude, when our species mastered the art of manipulating its brain chemistry to produce intense bursts of short-term pleasure. As a result, billions of people began to have more fun than their minds and bodies could handle — and developed insidious, life-sapping addictions. I did so myself.
"Vatileaks" and the Vatican Bank have been monopolizing the media's attention lately. That's why it's especially important to ponder the Pope's homily for Pentecost...
Pope: Live According to Unity and Truth of Holy Spirit |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: "Vatileaks" and internal politics at the Vatican Bank have been monopolizing the media's attention lately, crowding out other important news items such as the Holy Father's homily for Pentecost, and the surprising news that he is to declare two new Doctors of the Chuch.
In his homily, delivered in St. Peter's basilica yesterday, Benedict XVI warned that when "men wish to set themselves up as God, they only succeed in setting themselves against one other. On the other hand, when they abide in the truth of the Lord, they open themselves to the action of His spirit which sustains and unites them".
In his homily, delivered in St. Peter's basilica yesterday, Benedict XVI warned that when "men wish to set themselves up as God, they only succeed in setting themselves against one other. On the other hand, when they abide in the truth of the Lord, they open themselves to the action of His spirit which sustains and unites them".
Top 5 reasons beer is better than coffee...
Truth & CharitySCIBA: The finals are graded and I find myself consuming fewer caffeinated stimulants and in great need of genuine relaxation.� Last week, I wrote on the advantages coffee has over beer, but after both of my readers basically called me out for being a charlatan, I’ve had a slight change of heart.� Without further ado…
10 things to remember about Memorial Day
10 Things to Remember About Memorial Day - Mental Floss: Memorial Day was a response to the unprecedented carnage of the Civil War, in which some 620,000 soldiers on both sides died. The loss of life and its effect on communities throughout the North and South led to spontaneous commemorations of the dead
Video: Cardinal Wuerl discusses the HHS lawsuit on Fox News Sunday
Cardinal Wuerl on contraception mandate | Video | Fox News: Catholic institutions vs. Obama administration
A National Solemnity
A National Solemnity | The Catholic WifeKATIESCIBA: Despite growing up an Air Force brat with instilled, unfailing pride in America and the flag, I confess I giddily readied myself for the long Memorial Day weekend with ads. Lowe’s ads, Kohl’s ads, Pottery Barn, Bass Pro, etc. – I thrilled and poured over all the steals and deals to be had: fantasizing about new towels for the bathroom, a hip new cross-body, and a shiny reel to add to Andrew’s fishing gear.
Meditations on the Rosary: The Annunciation
Meditations on the Rosary: The Annunciation |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: The things we think big can be curiously small to God.� We often forget this when watching the news.� When the TV starts chattering about Washington or New York or inflation or politics, an incautious person could easily get the impression these things are of ultimate importance.� But in light of the way God seems to actually deal with us, this geopolitical Big Think stuff—like virtually everything on television—usually vanishes into microscopic insignificance.
10 Links for Your Memorial Day Web Surfing
10 Links for Your Memorial Day Web Surfing |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: Happy Memorial Day! I hope that nobody is reading this, and instead you're all out getting some fresh air and frolicking in the sunshine with your families. But if you do happen to find yourself with some extra web surfing time over the long weekend, below are a few links you might enjoy.
Bringing the Cristero War to the big screen
Bringing the Cristero War to the Big Screen | Daily News | NCRegister.comDRAKE: Pablo Jose Barroso is a real-estate developer, but, more recently, he has become a film producer. In 2005, he produced Guadalupe. Last year, he produced the animated movie The Greatest Miracle. His most recent work, For Greater Glory, tells the story of the Cristero War in Mexico. The film features actors Andy Garcia, Peter O’Toole, Eva Longoria and Eduardo Verastegui. It opened April 20 in Mexico and will debut June 1 in the U.S. Barroso spoke about the movie before the film’s debut.
Memorial Day 2012
Whispers in the Loggia: The Glorious DeadPALMO: So, Stateside church, whether we've spent this long weekend enjoying the traditional beach-trek or barbeque, basking in the glow of a Confirmation, Ordination or Wedding, hyperventilating over the arrest of the Pope's butler, or waiting out the usual bread-and-circuses frenzy until the latter's most brutta figura reality sufficiently comes to light, as another Memorial Day dawns on these shores, let us pause to remember the heroic price which has blessed us with the liberty to each of these and much more, that -- especially in these days -- we may be ever more mindful of the responsibility that comes with all of it....
Sunday, May 27, 2012
10 of the oldest restaurants in America...
Top 10 oldest restaurants in America | Fox News: What can you expect from one of America’s longest-running restaurants? A timeless design and a menu concept that’s build to last, a roster of famous clientele (often including former presidents), and sometimes even a disaster or two (a number of places in this collection were rebuilt after devastating fires and floods).
But more than these quantitative characteristics, the oldest restaurants in the country have lasted this long because of unique qualities that are much tougher to define.
But more than these quantitative characteristics, the oldest restaurants in the country have lasted this long because of unique qualities that are much tougher to define.
Bay Area crowds see battleship Iowa off on final voyage
Bay Area crowds see battleship Iowa off on final voyage - latimes.com: It was a stirring sight in World War II: the biggest U.S. battleship ever built passing slowly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and into the Pacific, bound for battle.
On Saturday, thousands witnessed the same historic passage as the Iowa was towed from San Francisco Bay on one last mission — a journey to Southern California and its permanent home as a floating museum on the San Pedro waterfront.
On Saturday, thousands witnessed the same historic passage as the Iowa was towed from San Francisco Bay on one last mission — a journey to Southern California and its permanent home as a floating museum on the San Pedro waterfront.
A source close to the Pope's butler says "He has either gone crazy or has been framed"...
Someone persuaded him to keep those papers - Vatican InsiderTORNIELLI: The simplest theory, the clearer and most probable according to the results of the investigation so far confirmed by Fr. Federico Lombardi, is that of betrayal. Even though there is hardly anyone who believes that Paolo Gabriele might have been the only and main culprit, able to organize and manage the leaks. Another Vatican’s employee friend of the butler said to Vatican Insider“ I haven't been able to sleep for two nights. Little Paolo� talked with me on Monday evening, he was sad because he had been informed a few hours before that he was suspected. He was bitter because all the people above him had lost faith in him. But I also found him calm. Basically he did not seem like someone hiding anything”.
The 6 Most Amazing Jellyfish in the Sea
The 6 Most Amazing Jellyfish in the Sea: Jellyfish, or jellies to give them their scientific name, have enchanted humanity since we first laid eyes on them. Unsubstantial and wispy, they float around our oceans almost without thought or effort, their tendrils carelessly drifting behind them as they go.
Jellies have existed in one form or another for about 700 million years (25% of the Earths existence), in that time they have evolved some rather amazing attributes.
Jellies have existed in one form or another for about 700 million years (25% of the Earths existence), in that time they have evolved some rather amazing attributes.
Should we say Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit? Is there a difference?
Should We Say Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit? Is there a difference? ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: Ghost derives from the Old English word gast which refers to personal immaterial being - a soul, an angel, or even a demon. It is directly related the German geist.
Today, "ghost" conjures up images of haunted houses. It is a shame that this is the case. Is it, however, a reason to abandon the term "Holy Ghost"?
Today, "ghost" conjures up images of haunted houses. It is a shame that this is the case. Is it, however, a reason to abandon the term "Holy Ghost"?
For the Ordinariate, A Flock of Fathers
Whispers in the Loggia: For the Ordinariate, A Flock of FathersPALMO: Much as Pentecost marks the "birthday" of the church, it's rare that this 50th Day of Easter actually lends itself to seeing a community of the faithful take shape and grow in real-time. This year, though, that just so happens to be the case in our midst.
Along those lines, while an early-month briefing on the global Anglican Ordinariate effort said that the first priestly ordination for the venture's North American branch would take place on June 3rd in South Carolina, to use a Roman term, the report has been superseded.
Along those lines, while an early-month briefing on the global Anglican Ordinariate effort said that the first priestly ordination for the venture's North American branch would take place on June 3rd in South Carolina, to use a Roman term, the report has been superseded.
Pentecost is the feast of human unity, understanding, and sharing...
Vatican Radio - Pope: Pentecost is a feast of unity, understanding and sharingBENEDICT: This biblical story contains an eternal truth: we see this truth throughout history and in our own time as well. Progress and science have given us the power to dominate the forces of nature, to manipulate the elements, to reproduce living things, almost to the point of manufacturing humans themselves. In this situation, praying to God appears outmoded, pointless, because we can build and create whatever we want. We don't realise we are reliving the same experience as Babel. It's true, we have multiplied the possibilities of communicating, of possessing information, of transmitting news – but can we say our ability to understand each other has increased? Or, paradoxically, do we understand each other even less?
Memo from Carl Anderson explains why Vatican Bank head was fired
Memo explaining why Vatican Bank head was fired | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Yesterday the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera published a two-page memorandum from the Supervisory Council of the Institute for the Works of Religion, popularly known as the "Vatican Bank," outlining its reasons for a vote of no-confidence in the institute's president, Italian economist and banker Ettore Gotti Tedeschi.
The memo was written in English, which is the usual working language for meetings of the council, and was signed by Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus and the council's secretary.
The memo was written in English, which is the usual working language for meetings of the council, and was signed by Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus and the council's secretary.
The Gift of the Holy Spirit
Beginning to Pray: The Gift of the Holy SpiritLILLES: Pentecost is a Feast of Love. �It is the feast of the Canticle of Canticles where the Bridegroom comes to kiss his Bride. Today the Church cries out to her Bridegroom for a divine kiss, a kiss from the mouth of God. � It is this kiss entrusted to frail humanity that makes all the difference in the world and in our lives. �It is by this kiss that God discloses the depths of his love, that He surrenders His Holy Spirit to each of us in the most unique and particular way. � It is the kiss God entrusts to humanity from the Cross.
On the Feast of Pentecost, Pope Benedict announces October 7 ceremony to declare St. John of Ávila and St. Hildegard of Bingen Doctors of the Church
VATICAN Papa: Pentecost, feast of unity in a divided world that thinks it does not need God - Asia News: Pentecost, the "baptism of the Church', is the feast of unity, of understanding God's choice, against those who "believe they are so powerful they can build their own way to heaven in order to open the gates and put themselves in God's place." Benedict XVI stressed this dualism between Pentecost and "Babel" on the day of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon Mary and the Apostles, a day in which he announced that at the start of the next Synod of Bishop, he will proclaim Saint John of Ávila and Saint Hildegard of Bingen, doctors of the universal Church.
Converting to Paganism
Converting to PaganismBARNES: Christians like to believe that our age is a frightening one, an age in which everything is allowed, and all the horny powers of hedonism run rampant. The Godless — God bless ‘em — believe the same, but as far as I can tell, they’re happier with the prospect.
We’re all becoming pagans, the Christian frowns, using that wonderful, royal we. We’re becoming pagans, the Godless smile back, shaking off the cruel bonds of organized religion.
We’re all becoming pagans, the Christian frowns, using that wonderful, royal we. We’re becoming pagans, the Godless smile back, shaking off the cruel bonds of organized religion.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Clubhouse or lighthouse? What the Holy Spirit wants for the Church on the Feast of Pentecost...
Clubhouse or Lighthouse? – What the Holy Spirit Wants for the Church on the Feast of Pentecost | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: What a wondrous and challenging feast we celebrate at Pentecost. A feast like this challenges us, because it puts to the lie a lazy, sleepy, hidden, and tepid Christian life.
The Lord Jesus had said to Apostles, and still says to us: I have come to cast a fire on the earth! (Luke 12:49). This is a feast about fire, about a transformative, refining, and purifying fire that the Lord wants to kindle in us and in this world.
The Lord Jesus had said to Apostles, and still says to us: I have come to cast a fire on the earth! (Luke 12:49). This is a feast about fire, about a transformative, refining, and purifying fire that the Lord wants to kindle in us and in this world.
"He is in love with the Church and adores the Pope": The confessor of the Pope's accused valet, Paolo Gabriele, springs to his defense...
Vatican leak inquiry: Confessor defends Pope’s butler - Vatican InsiderTORNIELLI: The voice of the elderly priest - who wished to remain anonymous - sounded broken from all the crying, as he spoke to Italian newspaper La Stampa, from his home in the Vatican. During the telephone interview he described what he knew about Benedict XVI’s 46 year old butler, Paolo Gabriele, husband and father of three, who was arrested after he was found in “illegal possession of confidential documents.” Like many in the Holy See, the monsignor is scared and still in shock after yesterday’s events.
'The Demise of Guys': How video games and porn are ruining a generation...
'The Demise of Guys': How video games and porn are ruining a generation - CNN.com: Every compulsive gambler, alcoholic or drug addict will tell you that they want increasingly more of a game or drink or drug in order to get the same quality of buzz.
Video game and porn addictions are different. They are "arousal addictions," where the attraction is in the novelty, the variety or the surprise factor of the content. Sameness is soon habituated; newness heightens excitement. In traditional drug arousal, conversely, addicts want more of the same cocaine or heroin or favorite food.
Video game and porn addictions are different. They are "arousal addictions," where the attraction is in the novelty, the variety or the surprise factor of the content. Sameness is soon habituated; newness heightens excitement. In traditional drug arousal, conversely, addicts want more of the same cocaine or heroin or favorite food.
Pope "shocked and saddened" by arrest of valet; unnamed sources report a "staggering amount" of stolen papers were found in Gabriele's apartment; evidence suggests more moles at work...
Pope "Shocked and Saddened" by Arrest of Valet |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Pope Benedict XVI is reported to be “shocked and saddened” by the arrest of his valet, Paolo Gabriele, who has served in the Pope's inner circle for six years.
The Holy Father was informed of Gabriele’s arrest and detention in a Vatican cell, after the papal assistant was found to be “in illegal possession” of confidential Vatican documents.
More details emerged today of what is said to have been found in his apartment. Vaticanista Marco Tosatti of La Stampa, quoting unnamed Vatican sources, has reported that a “staggering amount” of confidential material kept in boxes was discovered by investigators, including equipment needed to photograph and reproduce documents.
The Holy Father was informed of Gabriele’s arrest and detention in a Vatican cell, after the papal assistant was found to be “in illegal possession” of confidential Vatican documents.
More details emerged today of what is said to have been found in his apartment. Vaticanista Marco Tosatti of La Stampa, quoting unnamed Vatican sources, has reported that a “staggering amount” of confidential material kept in boxes was discovered by investigators, including equipment needed to photograph and reproduce documents.
New York Times: In a Vatican whodunit, a punch line of a suspect...
In a Vatican Whodunit, a Punch Line of a Suspect - NYTimes.com: A mysterious source named Maria. A room furnished with a single chair where sensitive Vatican documents are turned over to an investigative journalist at regular meetings. The arrest of the pope’s butler. Perhaps the greatest breach in centuries in the wall of secrecy that surrounds the Vatican.
Some will love this video. Some will hate it. But one thing's for sure: in 2012, everything's a big production
In 2012, everything is a big productionKANDRA: Did we even have normal lives before YouTube and Vimeo?
We’ve had wedding processions go viral, and “Thriller” dances at weddings become worldwide phenomena. � Sometimes, entire cities have gotten into the act.
Now another entry in the “Can you top this for sheer video exhibitionism?” sweepstakes: a marriage proposal that includes everything—tossed flower petals, dancing Jews, a same-sex kiss, a marching band, and over 60 friends and family members willing to stage something outrageously over-the-top for online posterity.
Some will love it. �Some will hate it. �(Me, I’m a sucker for this kind of stuff.) But decades hence, it will stand—along with all those other examples above—as a video snapshot of our times.
We’ve had wedding processions go viral, and “Thriller” dances at weddings become worldwide phenomena. � Sometimes, entire cities have gotten into the act.
Now another entry in the “Can you top this for sheer video exhibitionism?” sweepstakes: a marriage proposal that includes everything—tossed flower petals, dancing Jews, a same-sex kiss, a marching band, and over 60 friends and family members willing to stage something outrageously over-the-top for online posterity.
Some will love it. �Some will hate it. �(Me, I’m a sucker for this kind of stuff.) But decades hence, it will stand—along with all those other examples above—as a video snapshot of our times.
Video: To mark the World Day of Communications, Rome Reports lists 10 Catholic websites for your consideration...
Top 10 websites to find God on the Internet: There are thousands of religious sites on the web. While it's impossible to name them all, ROME REPORTS is listing 10 popular sites to mark World Day of Communication. They are sites that can help people find their faith while surfing the web.
A deacon responds to a gushy women’s ordination propaganda piece in a secular newspaper
A deacon responds to a gushy women’s ordination propaganda piece in a secular newspaper | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: A while back there was a dippy filmette about wymynprysts “Pink Smoke Over the Vatican” inspired by an equally dippy column in the Bakersfield Californian by one Valerie Schultz, a board member of CSUB’s Institute for Religion, Education, and Public Policy (IREPP) and a columnist for the Bakersfield Californian. �I had seen Schultz’s original column, but considered it too loopy for your time and my effort.
Joe Feuerherd, publisher and editor-in-chief of the National Catholic Reporter, dies at 48...
Joe Feuerherd, head of liberal Catholic weekly, has died - USATODAY.com: Joe Feuerherd, the editor-in-chief of National Catholic Reporter, who embodied the weekly newspaper's fierce independence and liberal tilt, died on Wednesday after an 18-month bout with cancer, NCR has announced.
The Spirit and the Bride: Mary's Role at Pentecost
The Spirit and the Bride: Mary's Role at Pentecost ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: While the Holy Apostles were generally ignorant of the Holy Ghost, the Immaculate Mary knew Him intimately. Mary had already experienced the descent of the Holy Ghost at her Immaculate Conception since at that moment she was not merely preserved from all sin, but also filled with grace and the Holy Spirit. She was perfectly possessed by the Holy Ghost from the first moment of her existence. This is why Saint Francis of Assisi and other great saints have called Mary "Spouse of the Holy Spirit." The analogy of matrimony is the strongest and best way to signify a union of two persons in their mission. Although not carnally married, the Holy Spirit and Mary are united perfectly in their mission. She never sins. She only desires the will of the Holy Spirit.
If you're Catholic, you belong to the largest Pentecostal Church in the world...
The Difference that the Spirit Makes | Catholic LaneD'AMBROSIO: As a teen, I thought the clergy were supposed to do everything. We laity were just called to pray, pay, and obey.� Oh yes, and keep the commandments, of course.� The original 10 seemed overwhelming enough.� Then I discovered the Sermon on the Mount and nearly passed out.
Perhaps this is why many inactive Catholics are so resentful of their upbringing in the Church.�� For them, religion means frustration, failure, and guilt.
Perhaps this is why many inactive Catholics are so resentful of their upbringing in the Church.�� For them, religion means frustration, failure, and guilt.
Priest busted for sexually abusing 11-year-old girl now working for TSA at Philadelphia airport...
Priest busted for sex abuse ten years ago now working for the TSA at Philly airport � - NY Daily News: A Catholic priest removed from the ministry ten years ago for sexually abusing young girls has found another job — with the TSA.
Thomas Harkins, once a priest at churches throughout South Jersey, now works as a TSA supervisor at the Philadelphia International Airport, CBS Philly reports.
He was forced to leave the church in 2002, when the Diocese of Camden found him guilty of sexually abusing two young girls.
Now, a third alleged victim has come forward, according to the station.
Thomas Harkins, once a priest at churches throughout South Jersey, now works as a TSA supervisor at the Philadelphia International Airport, CBS Philly reports.
He was forced to leave the church in 2002, when the Diocese of Camden found him guilty of sexually abusing two young girls.
Now, a third alleged victim has come forward, according to the station.
Worth a thousand words, Anglican edition
Worth a thousand words, Anglican edition: Behold, the 17 new Catholic deacons—soon to be priests—who were once Anglican priests in the UK.
They were ordained today for the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham.
They were ordained today for the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Video: The new evangelization needs a new ardor...
Catholic Seminaries and Evangelization: A Commentary by Fr. Barron - YouTubeBARRON: I was recently named rector and president
of my alma mater, Mundelein Seminary. I think
one reason that Cardinal George asked me to
take that role is that I've been involved in
this work of the new evangelization, which
is one of the principal works
of today's seminaries and the priesthood. So what
would I tell my charges at the seminary about
the new evangelization?
of my alma mater, Mundelein Seminary. I think
one reason that Cardinal George asked me to
take that role is that I've been involved in
this work of the new evangelization, which
is one of the principal works
of today's seminaries and the priesthood. So what
would I tell my charges at the seminary about
the new evangelization?
The present moment is our first responsibility. The past is past, and the future is in the Hands of our Father...
Seek First | From Our Back PorchGRODI: Have we lost the trusting thrill of our present moment, regardless of our past, present, or future financial situations, knowing that the patient gait of our Creator and Father has nothing but good in store for those who thankfully seek, one step at a time, to grow in His likeness?
This happened on our watch...
It happened on our watch – as seen on TV | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In the commercial, anarchy, destruction, injustice, violence, and pure chaos are shown. And yet, all the while our super hero, with the “Bat Phone” screeching in the background calling for help, is wholly distracted, flipping through the channels, unaware that the world around him is descending right into hell. He is turned inward, wholly focused on his own little world.
Is this us? Are we the super hero slouching on the couch as the world and western culture descended into a maelstrom: innocence lost, the blood-dimmed tide of the 20th Century, perhaps more 100 million put to death in war and for ideological purposes, moral anarchy swept in on the four horsemen of the apocalypse: relativism, secularism, individualism and the sexual revolution.
Is this us? Are we the super hero slouching on the couch as the world and western culture descended into a maelstrom: innocence lost, the blood-dimmed tide of the 20th Century, perhaps more 100 million put to death in war and for ideological purposes, moral anarchy swept in on the four horsemen of the apocalypse: relativism, secularism, individualism and the sexual revolution.
Is the Holy Spirit a mere force? No. Here's a simple and surprising way to prove that He's a Divine Person...
Who Is the Holy Spirit? (Video)AKIN: The divinity of the Holy Spirit was infallibly defined at the First Council of Constantinople in A.D. 381, but not everyone accepts the fact that the Holy Spirit is a divine Person–one of the three Persons of the Blessed Trinity.
For example, Jehovah’s Witnesses claim that the Holy Spirit is merely God’s “energy” or “active force.”
In this video, I show a simple and surprising way that you can use the Bible to show both that the Holy Spirit is a Person and that he is a divine Person, alongside the Father and the Son.
For example, Jehovah’s Witnesses claim that the Holy Spirit is merely God’s “energy” or “active force.”
In this video, I show a simple and surprising way that you can use the Bible to show both that the Holy Spirit is a Person and that he is a divine Person, alongside the Father and the Son.
First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
Mommy Life: First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - pro-life GE adCURTIS: Goosebumps.
When G.E. first released this TV ad for 4D ultrasound in 2002, it was hailed by pro-life groups everywhere - as well as by conservative columnists such as George Will and Cal Thomas - which made liberals angry. They called it propaganda and It disappeared very quickly.
When G.E. first released this TV ad for 4D ultrasound in 2002, it was hailed by pro-life groups everywhere - as well as by conservative columnists such as George Will and Cal Thomas - which made liberals angry. They called it propaganda and It disappeared very quickly.
Vatican confirms arrest of Pope Benedict’s trusted valet for stealing sensitive documents
Vatican arrests Pope Benedict’s butler in leaks of secret documents - NYPOST.com: This guy is going to have to say a lot of Hail Marys.
Pope Benedict XVI’s trusted butler was busted yesterday by Vatican police for allegedly stealing the pontiff’s personal papers and sparking a five-month scandal that embarrassed the Holy See.
Paolo Gabriele, 40, was caught red-handed — with secret Vatican documents — when he arrived for work at the papal apartments near St. Peter’s Basilica, Italian media reported.
His arrest comes a month after Benedict appointed a special commission of three senior cardinals to find who has been leaking Holy See secrets — including letters to the pope about alleged Vatican corruption and power struggles.
Pope Benedict XVI’s trusted butler was busted yesterday by Vatican police for allegedly stealing the pontiff’s personal papers and sparking a five-month scandal that embarrassed the Holy See.
Paolo Gabriele, 40, was caught red-handed — with secret Vatican documents — when he arrived for work at the papal apartments near St. Peter’s Basilica, Italian media reported.
His arrest comes a month after Benedict appointed a special commission of three senior cardinals to find who has been leaking Holy See secrets — including letters to the pope about alleged Vatican corruption and power struggles.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Stockton's Bishop Blaire rejects claims of division over mandate lawsuits...
Bishop Blaire rejects claims of division over mandate lawsuits :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Bishop Stephen E. Blaire of Stockton, Calif. has clarified that he is united with his fellow bishops in their efforts to oppose the threat to religious freedom posed by the federal contraception mandate.
“I stand solidly with my brother bishops in our common resolve to overturn the unacceptable intrusion of government into the life of the Church by the HHS Mandate,” said Bishop Blaire in a May 24 statement.�
He explained that he wanted to “clarify some misunderstandings” related to his earlier comments about the mandate.
“I stand solidly with my brother bishops in our common resolve to overturn the unacceptable intrusion of government into the life of the Church by the HHS Mandate,” said Bishop Blaire in a May 24 statement.�
He explained that he wanted to “clarify some misunderstandings” related to his earlier comments about the mandate.
The butler did it: Vatican police arrest Pope's personal assistant for leaking confidential documents...
The Pope's butler arrested following Vatileaks investigation - Telegraph: The butler, identified as Paolo Gabriele, 40, was held by gendarmes after a special commission of three top senior cardinals had been appointed by the Pope to identify the source of the leaks which have caused severe embarrassment.
Mr Gabriele, who has been at the Pope’s side for six years, is one of the German born pontiff’s closest members of his inner circle which totals just four lay people and four nuns and he is always at his side.
Mr Gabriele, who has been at the Pope’s side for six years, is one of the German born pontiff’s closest members of his inner circle which totals just four lay people and four nuns and he is always at his side.
All hell is breaking loose in the Holy See...
All Hell breaks loose in the Holy See | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: To say that the Vatican seems in turmoil would be putting things mildly, with two stunners in the arc of twenty-fours: Yesterday’s announcement that the president of the Vatican Bank has been unceremoniously fired, and today’s revelation that a longtime personal servant of Benedict XVI has been identified as the alleged “deep throat” behind the torrid Vatican leaks scandal
Video: Latest images of Paolo Gabriele, the papal butler accused of leaking documents
Latest images of Paolo Gabriele, the pope's butler accused of leaking documents: These are the latest images of Paolo Gabriele, the butler of the Pope, who is being questioned by the Vatican police force, the Gendarmerie, for leaking secret documents of Benedict XVI.
These images are from the general audience of last Wednesday in St. Peter's Square. Thursday and Friday, Paolo Gabriele has not been seen as he usually is by Benedict XVI during audiences with heads of state.
These images are from the general audience of last Wednesday in St. Peter's Square. Thursday and Friday, Paolo Gabriele has not been seen as he usually is by Benedict XVI during audiences with heads of state.
Dublin's Archbishop Martin (who has a sterling reputation) refuses to publicly back Armagh's embattled Cardinal Brady (who doesn't)...
Martin refuses to publicly back embattled cardinal - National News - Independent.ie: Dublin Archbishop Diarmuid Martin yesterday declined to publicly back embattled All-Ireland primate Cardinal Sean Brady.
Dr Brady has kept a relatively low profile since new allegations emerged of the handling of child abuse concerns raised about notorious paedophile cleric Fr Brendan Smyth.
With just weeks to go to the 50th Eucharistic Congress, Archbishop Martin said the international event was about more than just one person.
Dr Brady has kept a relatively low profile since new allegations emerged of the handling of child abuse concerns raised about notorious paedophile cleric Fr Brendan Smyth.
With just weeks to go to the 50th Eucharistic Congress, Archbishop Martin said the international event was about more than just one person.
Video: A visit to the SSPX's principal seminary in Écône, Switzerland...
Part 2: The Society of St. Pius X - YouTube: This week we continue our look at the Society of St. Pius X, the traditionalist movement which may be close to reconciliation with Rome after years of separation over the modernizing reforms of the Second Vatican Council. We visit the society's principle seminary in Econe, Switzerland, which was founded in 1970 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre and has a reputation for being the epicenter of opposition to Vatican II.
Do you know the proper name of the Holy Spirit?
Do you know the proper name of the Holy Spirit? (Saint Augustine & St Thomas Aquinas) ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: As we approach the Feast of Pentecost, it's a good time to review our knowledge of the forgotten Person of the Most Holy Trinity. The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son and from the procession the Holy Spirit receives His proper name. Saint Augustine, that great Doctor of the Church, teaches
Meanwhile, from my native place Minnesota, comes this...
Meanwhile… back in my native place Minnesota… | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: I hope by now you have watched the Catholic News Service videos about the SSPX.
Meanwhile, in my native place of Minnesota – ground zero for defense of true marriage – comes this!
WARNING! The light reflected from all that gray hair may cause temporary blindness.
Meanwhile, in my native place of Minnesota – ground zero for defense of true marriage – comes this!
WARNING! The light reflected from all that gray hair may cause temporary blindness.
A review of Men in Black 3...
Men in Black 3 | Movies & TV | Christianity TodayGREYDANUS: How long can a franchise lay fallow before it belongs to the past, and a sequel no longer persuades us that it's cut from the same cloth as earlier material? At what point does the urgency of "What happens next?" fade into the idle curiosity of "Where are they now?" The first of these questions is the natural subject of a sequel; the second though, is the territory of "sequels."
There is clearly a question of time, not just quality in this distinction. None of the Rocky or Raiders sequels are in the same league as the originals, but the two latter-day "sequels" are in a different category from the earlier ones.
There is clearly a question of time, not just quality in this distinction. None of the Rocky or Raiders sequels are in the same league as the originals, but the two latter-day "sequels" are in a different category from the earlier ones.
8 quotes from St. John Chrysostom on how to raise your children...
8 Quotes from St. John Chrysostom on How to Raise Children | St. Peter's List: One of the most important basis for children’s spiritual formation is a strong foundation of faith made by parents. This task is a massive long-term undertaking, which requires the parents to approach their vocation with fear and trembling. St. John Chrysostom was not ignorant of this. In fact mingled in his great orations concerning deep theological matters, he often addressed parents on how to raise their children in holiness. Many people suggest that his ideas on parenting appear to antiquated. Although I believe it would foolish not to at least reflect on his words and find way to apply his teachings from a modern standpoint into our families.
Vatican Bank boss fired over alleged mismanagement
Vatican Bank boss fired over alleged mismanagement :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The President of the Vatican Bank, Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, has been fired from his post following a vote of no-confidence by the bank's supervisory board.
“Over time this area had generated increasing worries among the members of the board and, despite repeated efforts to communicate these concerns to Professor Gotti Tedeschi, President of the Works of Religion, the situation deteriorated further,” read a communiqué issued by the Vatican May 25.
“Over time this area had generated increasing worries among the members of the board and, despite repeated efforts to communicate these concerns to Professor Gotti Tedeschi, President of the Works of Religion, the situation deteriorated further,” read a communiqué issued by the Vatican May 25.
Vatican police arrest suspect over leaking of sensitive documents...
CNS STORY: Vatican police arrest one source of leaked documents: The Vatican police have arrested an individual in possession of private Vatican documents in connection to the so-called "VatiLeaks" scandal that began in January.
"This person now is being questioned by the Vatican magistrates for further information," said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, who declined to name the person.
He told reporters May 25 that the Vatican gendarmes "identified a person illicitly in possession of private documents." The committee of three cardinals Pope Benedict XVI appointed in April to look into the leaks had asked the gendarmes to investigate.
"This person now is being questioned by the Vatican magistrates for further information," said Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, who declined to name the person.
He told reporters May 25 that the Vatican gendarmes "identified a person illicitly in possession of private documents." The committee of three cardinals Pope Benedict XVI appointed in April to look into the leaks had asked the gendarmes to investigate.
Vatican Bank chief sacked as police inquiry continues
Vatican Bank chief sacked as police inquiry continues - ucanews.com: In an unprecedented move, the board of the Vatican Bank on Thursday (May 24) forced its president, Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, to resign.
According to a Vatican statement, the bank’s supervisory council unanimously passed a no-confidence motion in Gotti Tedeschi for his “failure to fulfill various primary functions of his office.” Carl A. Anderson, the supreme knight of the U.S.-based Knights of Columbus, is one of the council’s four members.
According to a Vatican statement, the bank’s supervisory council unanimously passed a no-confidence motion in Gotti Tedeschi for his “failure to fulfill various primary functions of his office.” Carl A. Anderson, the supreme knight of the U.S.-based Knights of Columbus, is one of the council’s four members.
Battle in Canadian schools mirrors broader Catholic realities
Battle in Canadian schools mirrors broader Catholic realities | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Politics is the mother of irony, and there's a juicy one bubbling right now in Canada, in the province of Ontario, where a school system originally designed to protect one aggrieved minority -- namely Catholics -- is under mounting pressure in the name of defending another -- in this case, gays and lesbians.
Specifically, some political and social leaders in Ontario want to compel publicly funded Catholic schools to permit the creation of "gay-straight alliance" clubs for their students as part of an effort to combat bullying based on sexual orientation, despite concern from church leaders that such groups could become vehicles for promoting homosexuality.
Specifically, some political and social leaders in Ontario want to compel publicly funded Catholic schools to permit the creation of "gay-straight alliance" clubs for their students as part of an effort to combat bullying based on sexual orientation, despite concern from church leaders that such groups could become vehicles for promoting homosexuality.
If you think you’re in a hurry, you have no idea how fast you’re really getting there...
If you think You’re in a hurry, you have no idea how fast you’re really getting there | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: It’s dizzying to consider our speed and motion: A spinning earth rotating around a sun which is rotating around a galaxy which is rotating around a universe at millions of miles an hour. So if you think you’re standing still, think again. We are actually hurtling through space at dizzying speeds.
Yes, you’re on the move! You’re moving so fast you met yourself coming back. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re loafing.
Here are some biblical speed texts, hurry up and read them!
Yes, you’re on the move! You’re moving so fast you met yourself coming back. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re loafing.
Here are some biblical speed texts, hurry up and read them!
Predestination and Prayer
Beginning to Pray: Predestination and PrayerLILLES: Predestination often evokes arguments surrounding grace and freewill, God's plan and human freedom, who will get into heaven and who will not. �Yet the Fathers of the Church and mystics like Blessed Elisabeth of the Trinity considered this mystery from another standpoint. �For these great contemplatives, predestination was a doctrine about the wonderful possibility to live by love God has opened up for each of us in Christ Jesus. �Instead of a system which limited the scope of human freedom, they saw the unexpected opportunity to really love, to truly live call to them like a new and yet to be explored frontier.
E.T. at 30: 10 things you didn't know about our favorite extra-terrestrial...
E.T. Was a Originally a Horror Movie | Top 10 Things You Didn't Know About E.T. | Entertainment | TIME.com: A few years after the huge success of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Steven Spielberg wanted to revisit the idea of space-faring aliens that visit our world. But his new vision was dark and threatening and reportedly influenced by a real-life incident in which a farm family in Kentucky claimed they were terrorized by a group of aliens.
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