Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Video: What made a Presbyterian minister become Catholic...
Jason Stewart on the Journey Home (October 29, 2012) - Called to Communion: For those of you who missed Jason Stewart’s appearance on The Journey Home this past Monday evening, here it is...
The fall and rise of the Archdiocese of Boston...
Archdiocese of Boston, Catholic Church Rebuild After Sex Abuse ScandalBoston Articles: On a beautiful August day in 2004, Eric Cadin pulled his battered Ford Taurus up to the soaring stone towers of St. John’s Seminary in Brighton. After spending the morning surfing in Rhode Island, Cadin arrived to find that he’d barely made it in time for move-in. Fortunately, he didn’t have much in the way of possessions. Having spent the past year living in a tent in Hawaii, he had only a few bags of clothes, some books, and a bed-in-a-sack he’d recently purchased. Cadin was wearing a necklace made of shells and his short brown hair was still crunchy with ocean salt, but he had managed to change out of his surfing gear and into a pair of khaki shorts and a polo shirt. He was about to begin the years-long journey to become a Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Boston.
Why Heaven makes sense to me...
Why Heaven Makes SenseBARNES: I wouldn’t mind not believing in Heaven. The ancient Jews managed to do it, which is in itself a testimony to the validity of their religion: The most strict, most terrifying moral code in human history was followed without any promise of eternal reward. But no matter how hard I try to conceptualize a merely finite life — a life without Heaven — I find myself contradicting human experience. If I deny heaven, a plausible denial in the scientific age, I seem to end up denying myself.
Getting to know the Holy Spirit...
Getting to Know the Holy Spirit | Prayer and PerspectiveMIRAVALLE: Anyone who’s ever taken a class or read a book on the Trinity knows that the Third Person in God is characterized by pure receptivity/passivity. He is the source of no one in God, but finds His source in the love of both the Father and the Son. He’s the breath they both breathe together, prompting St. Bernard of Clairvaux to call Him the “kiss” between the First Two Persons.
What we can learn from the frightful presidential campaign of 2012...
OSV Daily Take Blog: Shaw: What we can learn from the frightful presidential campaign of 2012SHAW: As the 2012 campaign passes into history, it’s not too soon to note some of the genuine horrors of this increasingly strange way of choosing a president.
First, though, let me repeat a quote from Alexis de Tocqueville’s classic "Democracy in America" that I cited many months ago when the campaign was heating up. The point isn’t to celebrate my foresightedness but Tocqueville’s.
First, though, let me repeat a quote from Alexis de Tocqueville’s classic "Democracy in America" that I cited many months ago when the campaign was heating up. The point isn’t to celebrate my foresightedness but Tocqueville’s.
Michelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel 500 years ago, but it never gets old...
Photos: The Sistine Chapel - CNN.com: The Sistine Chapel ceiling is one of the most recognized pieces of art in the world. It was painted by Michelangelo Buonarroti in 1512. The Vatican is marking its 500th anniversary on Tuesday.
Dignity and Downton Abbey...
Dignity and Downton Abbey | CatholicMom.comMATENAER: I search the pantry, looking for the perfect snack.� The babies are in bed, so I take my time.� What I really want is a Canadian maple cookie, imported personally by my husband back from his stay in Ontario.� I stare at the orange Mr. Maple box…no, it’s probably sinful at this point to have any more sugar. An image of the Sacred Heart comes to mind, as well as a story I had read a month or two ago about some babies after birth needing an insulin drip after experiencing sugar withdrawal symptoms, and I close the door. My husband prepares a cheese platter and finds a bottle of wine.
A group of cloistered nuns has recorded an album of chant. You’ve got to hear this...
You’ve got to hear this: A group of cloistered nuns has recorded an album of chant, and and the preview (see the video below) is just gorgeous.
Top 10 Catholic ghost stories in the United States...
Fr. Robert Barron's Word On Fire - Culture: Our Favorite Catholic Hauntings: Well, it’s Halloween: a time when folks dress up in all manner of costumes while enjoying candy, parties, scary movies and ghost stories. The ghost stories in particular arouse the interest and wonder of many a lively imagination at this time of year. All over the world, stories of hauntings, spirits and monsters, including some supposed hauntings of Catholic locations, frighten and delight believers everywhere, especially during the Halloween season. Some stories are scary and mysterious. Others, not so much.
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In the spirit of Halloween, and in no apparent order, here are our ten favorite rumors of Catholic hauntings in the U.S.
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In the spirit of Halloween, and in no apparent order, here are our ten favorite rumors of Catholic hauntings in the U.S.
Shockers in the 95 Theses: Martin Luther defends papal authority, Purgatory, and Marian devotion...
The Sacred Page: Luther's Belief in Papal Authority, Purgatory and Other Shockers in the 95 Theses: "Celebrating" Reformation DayBARBER: Today is not just Halloween (check out my post and podcast on Ghosts and Saints in Scripture and Catholic Teaching here), it is also "Reformation Day". Today Protestants celebrate Martin Luther's nailing of 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg church.
But I wonder how closely Protestants actually have read these. Did you know that Luther affirms the pope's authority to remit sins in them? That he affirms that God uses priests to communicate his forgiveness?
But I wonder how closely Protestants actually have read these. Did you know that Luther affirms the pope's authority to remit sins in them? That he affirms that God uses priests to communicate his forgiveness?
Former boy-band member Nick Lachey made a huge blunder on national TV...
The chef and the boy-band : IgnitumTodayHELDT: Judge me if you will, but I’m completely unimpressed by celebrity culture.� While I’m sure that these are all perfectly lovely people in real life, I just can’t fathom why I should care about who is in/out of rehab (again), or what the Kardashians are wearing.� If you wanted to torture me, you’d force me to read People Magazine cover to cover–with Housewives of Orange County playing in the background.
Here's some emergency gear that you'll want to have around in case of disaster...
In case of emergency (gear for this one or the next) | The Wirecutter: Some people in New York are fine, some are not. I don't know that this list of helpful emergency gear will be helpful this late, but I figure it's better than one more post about which smartphone rules. It says a lot about New York that I have more friends and family there than any other place in the world, even though I've never lived there. I spent the last day in about as much fear about their safety than I've felt in years. I can't recall the last time I was this afraid, honestly. Maybe I can blame twitter, where the best of the worst images and videos spread quickly.
Barbara Curtis R.I.P.
UPDATED: Please pray for Mommy Life blogger Barbara CurtisRIPCURTIS: Blogger Barbara Curtis has died. Barbara was a true Proverbs 31 woman of valor. I am thankful to have known her, albeit mostly from a distance, and am so sorry that she is gone. Please remember her now and during the month of All Souls, and keep her family in your prayers.
Abortion is murder. There is no issue more foundational than the protection of life...
ARCHBISHOP AQUILA: 10.31.12 - Let your faith be your guide in the voting boothAQUILA: Last week at the annual Al Smith Dinner in New York City, Cardinal Timothy Dolan reminded Catholics of our obligation to the “uns” of this world. As Christians, he said, we should serve and love “the un-employed, the un-insured, the un-wanted, the un-wed mother and her innocent, fragile un-born baby in her womb, the un-documented, the un-housed, the un-healthy, the un-fed the under-educated.”
We find Jesus Christ among the “uns.” We serve him by serving them—when we care for those who are marginalized, threatened, impoverished or lonely we care for Jesus Christ.
The dignity of the poor is the dignity we all share—the dignity of being created in the image and likeness of God.
We find Jesus Christ among the “uns.” We serve him by serving them—when we care for those who are marginalized, threatened, impoverished or lonely we care for Jesus Christ.
The dignity of the poor is the dignity we all share—the dignity of being created in the image and likeness of God.
Do witches still exist? You bet they do...
Beware the Wicked Witch?LONGENECKER: Aleister Crowley was an English witch. He reveled in his description as ‘the wickedest man in the world.’ He was a shameless self publicist, a fraud and a charlatan, but he was also an educated, intelligent and willful diabolist. He was indeed very wicked and was definitely involved in just about every kind of vile perversion, drug addiction and occult religious practices imaginable. He died in Hastings, on the South coast of England in 1947.
Do you have an iPhone? Try the Google Search app's updated voice search. It works amazingly well...
Enhanced Google Voice Search for iOS: Google's search app for iOS has always included voice search. Now iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users can try Google's updated voice search, 5 months after the Android Jelly Bean launch. Just install the latest version of the Google Search app.
The original voice search feature was just another way to enter a query. The new version shows instant answers and a robotic voice reads them for you. Another improvement is that your words are displayed as you speak, so you don't have to wait so much.
The original voice search feature was just another way to enter a query. The new version shows instant answers and a robotic voice reads them for you. Another improvement is that your words are displayed as you speak, so you don't have to wait so much.
"They started to levitate about four inches out of their chair": Indiana priest recalls stories of exorcism...
Indiana priest recalls stories of exorcism - The Ball State Daily News - Ball State University: If you think you’re experiencing an issue with demonic entities, there is someone you can call.
The Rev. Vincent Lampert is an exorcist based out of Greenwood, Ind. The priest has been an ordained exorcist since 2005.
An individual does not simply call Lampert and get an immediate exorcism, though.
Once a patient has made contact with him, Lampert will attempt to discover if the patient is genuine in their feelings and experiences. From there, he will send the patient to a psychologist to look for any mental health problems that could be causing the experience.
The Rev. Vincent Lampert is an exorcist based out of Greenwood, Ind. The priest has been an ordained exorcist since 2005.
An individual does not simply call Lampert and get an immediate exorcism, though.
Once a patient has made contact with him, Lampert will attempt to discover if the patient is genuine in their feelings and experiences. From there, he will send the patient to a psychologist to look for any mental health problems that could be causing the experience.
Sexting, sexcasting, and moral foundations...
Sexting, Sexcasting, and Moral Foundations | Catholic LaneTRASANCOS: Remember in 2005 when we first heard about “sexting”?
In a culture where kids grow up inundated with sexual language, sexual images, sexual music, sexual television, sexual education and encouragement to explore their sexual selves — parents, nonetheless, expressed horror to learn that kids were sending nude and sexually suggestive or explicit pictures to each other with their mobile phones.
In a culture where kids grow up inundated with sexual language, sexual images, sexual music, sexual television, sexual education and encouragement to explore their sexual selves — parents, nonetheless, expressed horror to learn that kids were sending nude and sexually suggestive or explicit pictures to each other with their mobile phones.
Things are certainly bad in the northeastern U.S., but Sandy's devastation in Haiti was way, way worse...
Sandy’s Devastation in Haiti Way, Way Worse Than New York or New Jersey | UN Dispatch: The world’s attention is understandably focused on the disaster wrought by Sandy in New York and New Jersey. Millions of good hearted Americans and people around the world are tapping into their wallets to donate to organizations helping people in New York and New Jersey recover from Sandy.
The impulse to help those affected in New York and New Jersey is laudable, but if people want to help those worst affected by Sandy, they should start paying attention to the situation in Haiti. New York and New Jersey are the wealthiest parts of the wealthiest country on the planet and the USA has capable and well crafted disaster emergency response systems.
The impulse to help those affected in New York and New Jersey is laudable, but if people want to help those worst affected by Sandy, they should start paying attention to the situation in Haiti. New York and New Jersey are the wealthiest parts of the wealthiest country on the planet and the USA has capable and well crafted disaster emergency response systems.
10 things you need to know today: October 31, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 31, 2012 - The Week: The Northeast assesses Sandy damage, Disney takes over the Star Wars legacy, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
In the wake of a storm, some lasting wisdom...
In the Wake of A Storm, Some Lasting Wisdom | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Here in Washington DC, the storm known as “Sandy” has passed. About 8 inches of rain, and winds near 70 mph. But damage, though local and severe for the victims, was not widespread. Further north and east into Jersey and New York City, damage was significant, especially along the shore. I was moved at Governor Christie’s personal sense of loss as he saw some childhood memories swept away.
Why I lost faith in the pro-choice movement...
Why I Lost Faith in the Pro-Choice Movement |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: I was sitting on a bean bag in my dorm room when I got the call. It was a friend of mine -- let's call her "Sara" -- and she was sobbing so hard it took me a moment to know who it was.
Finally, she pulled herself together enough to speak. With a voice that sounded as weary as if she had aged 100 years since the last time we talked, she said, "I'm pregnant."
My heart sunk on her behalf. I was completely pro-choice and didn't find the idea of abortion to be troubling, but I knew that she was not comfortable with it. She had always said that she respected other women's rights to choose, but that she could never do that. Yet I also knew that she was not entirely thrilled with this guy she was dating, a young man named Rob. He was handsome and charismatic, but he had a serious drinking problem, and didn't treat her with the respect she deserved.
Finally, she pulled herself together enough to speak. With a voice that sounded as weary as if she had aged 100 years since the last time we talked, she said, "I'm pregnant."
My heart sunk on her behalf. I was completely pro-choice and didn't find the idea of abortion to be troubling, but I knew that she was not comfortable with it. She had always said that she respected other women's rights to choose, but that she could never do that. Yet I also knew that she was not entirely thrilled with this guy she was dating, a young man named Rob. He was handsome and charismatic, but he had a serious drinking problem, and didn't treat her with the respect she deserved.
Video interview with Patrick Madrid on Catholic apologetics and the new atheism...
(Video) Interview with Patrick Madrid – On Catholic Apologetics and the New Atheism | BrandonVogt.comVOGT: When Patrick Madrid started in Catholic apologetics back in 1987, it wasn't nearly as popular as today. In the wake of the Second Vatican Council, apologetics didn't jive with the ecumenical spirit of the 60's and 70's, which put more emphasis on what Catholicism had in common with other faiths rather than what set it apart.
Yet along with Karl Keating, Dr. Scott Hahn, and a small group of others, Patrick helped revive the lost art. For eight years, he worked at Catholic Answers, an apologetics and evangelization apostolate, where he served as vice president and helped launch the group's flagship magazine, This Rock...
Yet along with Karl Keating, Dr. Scott Hahn, and a small group of others, Patrick helped revive the lost art. For eight years, he worked at Catholic Answers, an apologetics and evangelization apostolate, where he served as vice president and helped launch the group's flagship magazine, This Rock...
Holy Father's Wednesday audience: Faith is always personal, but never private...
VIS news - Holy See Press Office: THE CHURCH IS THE PLACE WHERE FAITH IS TRANSMITTED: During his general audience this morning Benedict XVI, continuing his catecheses on the subject of Catholic faith, began by posing certain important questions: "Is the nature of faith merely personal and individual? ... Do I live my faith alone?", he asked.
Why do we say that Jesus rose AGAIN when we know He rose only once?
QUAERITUR: Why He “rose again” in the Creed when we know Christ only rose once? | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: In English “again” can mean more than mere repetition. Check a good dictionary of English and you will find “again” as “anew” without the concept of repetition.
In our Creed, “He rose again” means “He rose anew”.
So, resurrexit does not mean Jesus rose twice or more. He returned to life “anew”.
A reader once provided an example of a kid who falls while riding his bike. �He gets up again and rides off. �That “again” doesn’t mean that he repeatedly gets up before riding off. �That “again” means “anew”.
“Rose again” for resurrexit is acceptable.
However, in our Latin liturgical worship we also use simple surgo, surrexit for the Lord “rose”.� At Easter, and in the Octave, Holy Church sings “Surrexit Christus spes mea” in the sequence Victimae paschali laudes.
In our Creed, “He rose again” means “He rose anew”.
So, resurrexit does not mean Jesus rose twice or more. He returned to life “anew”.
A reader once provided an example of a kid who falls while riding his bike. �He gets up again and rides off. �That “again” doesn’t mean that he repeatedly gets up before riding off. �That “again” means “anew”.
“Rose again” for resurrexit is acceptable.
However, in our Latin liturgical worship we also use simple surgo, surrexit for the Lord “rose”.� At Easter, and in the Octave, Holy Church sings “Surrexit Christus spes mea” in the sequence Victimae paschali laudes.
The Puritans have tried to abolish Halloween, and the Culture of Death has tried to twist it. But Halloween will always belong to Catholics...
Fr. Robert Barron's Word On Fire - Culture: Halloween and Catholicism: On this All Hallows Eve's Eve (that's right), we're putting our Fun-Size Snickers down long enough to learn something pretty profound about Halloween — that it has deep roots in Catholicism. We fired some questions at the walking encyclopedia that is Father Steve Grunow, and this is what he fired back: Everything you ever wanted to know about Catholicism and Halloween, and more.�
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Benghazigate: What is being lied about, going unasked?
Benghazigate: What is being lied about, going unasked? – UPDATESCALIA: That the president and his administration has lied to the American people about what happened at Benghazi on September 11 is undeniable.
Today is October 29. It’s been six weeks and our incurious press (apparently intuiting that if the administration first lied about the story and has now clammed up about it, it mustn’t serve Obama’s re-election efforts) is helpfully ignoring the story. The bird-dog press, who like to say the “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted” are doing nothing to make the president uncomfortable; they’re launching no investigations; they’re asking no questions, not even simple, obvious ones, like,,,
Today is October 29. It’s been six weeks and our incurious press (apparently intuiting that if the administration first lied about the story and has now clammed up about it, it mustn’t serve Obama’s re-election efforts) is helpfully ignoring the story. The bird-dog press, who like to say the “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comforted” are doing nothing to make the president uncomfortable; they’re launching no investigations; they’re asking no questions, not even simple, obvious ones, like,,,
You'll never believe what Joe Biden said to the father of a fallen Navy SEAL (warning: vulgar language)...
Latest Ruling Class Dump on our TroopsSHEA: These men should all be stripped of office and sent to clean toilets in Afghanistan till the war is over. That such brave men and their families should have to take orders from such venal and swinish narcissists turns my stomach. It would have been right and proper for that father to slap that man’s face and spit in it. But he had too much class for that. Way more class than Joe Biden.
Now THAT'S an infographic: XKCD charts two centuries of congressional makeup...
New Advent: Now THAT'S an infographic: XKCD charts two centuries of congressional makeup...: From the Federalists to the Republicans and Democrats...
Why are dried coffee stains darker at the edges than in the center?
Why Are Dried Coffee Stains Darker At The Edges Than In The Center? - Mental Floss: If you spill coffee anywhere near as often as I do, you may have noticed something peculiar: When a puddle of coffee is allowed to dry undisturbed, the brown sediment collects almost entirely on the edge of the spill rather than being spread out evenly. It was not until recently that we could explain why a drop of coffee (or wine, or ink) dries this way. The theory of coffee ring formation was published in 1997 by a group of University of Chicago physicists. Lest you think it entirely academic, this curiosity of fluid dynamics is a problem in the world of inkjet printers, and there is serious technological interest in overcoming it.
How do the natural, preternatural, and supernatural realms relate to demons?
How do the natural, preternatural, and supernatural realms relate to demons? | Roman Catholic Spiritual Direction: The natural deals with the laws of the physical world, i.e., the workings of nature, whereas the preternatural concerns things or events which appear outside or apart from (Latin praeter) the laws of the physical world. The supernatural concerns things or events beyond or above (Latin super) any created nature; it is proper only to God Himself.
Demons can engage in preternatural activities such as making an object levitate or transforming something instantly. They can do things that go beyond the material world, but they cannot act beyond their angelic nature. Their powers are limited, even in the physical world. God can create something from nothing; a demon cannot.
Demons can engage in preternatural activities such as making an object levitate or transforming something instantly. They can do things that go beyond the material world, but they cannot act beyond their angelic nature. Their powers are limited, even in the physical world. God can create something from nothing; a demon cannot.
If you suspect a case of domestic violence, the virtue of fortitude demands that you do something about it...
Turning a Blind Eye To Domestic Violence…FERNANDEZ: I don’t like to talk about my day job, the one that pays the bills, because it’s not prudent and things like that can come back and bite you. So let me be as vague as possible and hopefully you can follow along.
Today there was a shooting, a domestic dispute that escalated into a double homicide. Leaving out the details about the event itself I want to note that none of the neighbors present when the shooting happened this morning were the least bit surprised. According to their accounts they always heard her screaming.
Today there was a shooting, a domestic dispute that escalated into a double homicide. Leaving out the details about the event itself I want to note that none of the neighbors present when the shooting happened this morning were the least bit surprised. According to their accounts they always heard her screaming.
Holy Father releases message urging respect for rights of migrants and refugees...
Pope urges respect for rights of migrants, refugees :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Vatican has released Pope Benedict's message for the upcoming ninety-ninth World Day of Migrants and Refugees, in which he urged global respect for those forced to leave their homelands.
“Every migrant is a human person who, as such, possesses fundamental, inalienable rights that must be respected by everyone and in every circumstance,” the Pope said Oct. 29, quoting his 2009 encyclical “Caritas in Veritate.”
“Every migrant is a human person who, as such, possesses fundamental, inalienable rights that must be respected by everyone and in every circumstance,” the Pope said Oct. 29, quoting his 2009 encyclical “Caritas in Veritate.”
The Blessed Virgin Mary is an intrinsic part of Christianity...
The Virgin Mary is an Intrinsic Element of Christianity ~ Canterbury Tales by Dr. Taylor MarshallMARSHALL: In his Apostolic Letter entitled Marialis Cultus, Pope Paul VI states "the Church's devotedness to the Virgin Mary is an intrinsic element of the Christian Religion." His Holiness even states that we "cannot be Christians without being Marian." Father Stefano Manelli of the Franiciscans of the Immaculate focuses on this passage from Marialis Cultus as a true summary of Catholic teaching regarding Marian devotion.
"PR execs are confounded": Despite being targeted by gay activists, Chick-fil-A's fortunes are soaring...
Chick-fil-A thrives despite gay rights issue: Chick-fil-A has something unexpected to crow about.
Consumer use, visits and ad awareness were all up measurably in the third quarter, at a time the chicken chain appeared to be taking a public relations drubbing, reports research specialist Sandelman & Associates.
Intense national media and social media attention — much of it negative — was heaped on the chain three months ago, after President Dan Cathy told a religious publication that his company was "guilty as charged" in supporting the biblical definition of the family unit.
Consumer use, visits and ad awareness were all up measurably in the third quarter, at a time the chicken chain appeared to be taking a public relations drubbing, reports research specialist Sandelman & Associates.
Intense national media and social media attention — much of it negative — was heaped on the chain three months ago, after President Dan Cathy told a religious publication that his company was "guilty as charged" in supporting the biblical definition of the family unit.
Rotten to the core: Obama’s “First Time” video and the Democratic Party...
Rotten to the Core: Obama’s “First Time” Video and the Democratic Party | Crisis MagazineESOLEN: By now everyone paying attention to the presidential race has heard of the tasteless double-entendre ad the Obama campaign has put out, comparing voting for the President to losing your virginity.� I am trying—I am failing—to imagine the astonishment if someone had suggested the like to the leaders of the Democratic party of my youth and my father’s youth.� Those men loved their country, even if their policies have led to the leviathan that now buys our submission with our own money.� There was something else besides patriotism that united men like Stevenson, Humphrey, Muskie, Scoop Jackson, McGovern, Shriver, Nunn, and Bradley.� They were men, and they understood that there are things a man does not stoop to do.
The only thing that matters is to be a saint...
‘The only thing that matters is to be a saint’ - By Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M., Cap.CHAPUT: A friend of mine quipped recently that the real religion of Americans has nothing to do with churches or synagogues. Our “real” religion is politics and the juggling for power it involves. He was being humorous. But as I write these words in late October, and we head into the final days of another, uniquely important, presidential election, his words don’t seem quite so funny.
The Internet hath done wondrous deeds, but raising the intellectual bar cannot counted among them...
Chesterton, Shaw, and the Effect of Laughter on InsultBARNES: This became clear when I realized the question man alone has the dignity to ask — Am I a creature or an accident? — is being answered by taking screenshots of our oppositions’ Facebook statuses, rebutting them in Impact font, and posting them in a forum appropriated for the caress of our preconceived notions and the heavy petting of our unexamined faith. In this climate of awful, between the “God Hates Gays” meme and the “Atheism Causes War” rebuttal, I sympathize with the man who dismisses current atheistic/theistic dialogue as a joke.
Quaeritur: Diocese asking everyone at Mass to extend arms and “bless” the priest...
QUAERITUR: Diocese asking everyone at Mass to extend arms and “bless” the priest | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: Goodness gracious. Quousque tandem?
Some dioceses did this “Called by Name” program some thirty years ago. �If I am not mistaken, a large number of names of potential priestly vocations were identified this way. Most of them were from relatively conservative backgrounds. But in those days, the men who responded often had a hard time of it indeed. Many did not survive their seminaries, their bishops, or their diocesan vocation directors. �Dark days. Dark days.
Some dioceses did this “Called by Name” program some thirty years ago. �If I am not mistaken, a large number of names of potential priestly vocations were identified this way. Most of them were from relatively conservative backgrounds. But in those days, the men who responded often had a hard time of it indeed. Many did not survive their seminaries, their bishops, or their diocesan vocation directors. �Dark days. Dark days.
Soldiers guard the Tomb of Unknowns during Hurricane Sandy...
Soldiers Guard the Tomb of Unknowns During Hurricane Sandy - ABC News: An inspirational picture making the rounds on the Internet today is reminding people of the service of the elite soldiers who guard Arlington Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknowns in any kind of weather, even during Hurricane Sandy. That the picture was actually taken in September is another matter, because even as Hurricane Sandy makes its way along the Eastern seaboard, soldiers are there, guarding the tomb in the fierce wind and rain.
Like the confessional, the voting booth should be entered only after serious moral reflection and prayer...
xWEIGEL: American political campaigns have never been for the squeamish. With the sole exceptions of George Washington’s two uncontested elections, every presidential campaign has seen its share of vulgarity, skullduggery, and personal disparagement.
Those who imagine that “going negative” is the invention of today’s polls and focus-groups haven’t read very much about the rhetorical character of the senior Adams-Jefferson battle of 1800, the younger Adams-Jackson contest of 1824, or the Blaine-Cleveland fight of 1884, not to mention the dubious goings-on in Illinois and Texas in 1960 or in Florida in 2000.
Those who imagine that “going negative” is the invention of today’s polls and focus-groups haven’t read very much about the rhetorical character of the senior Adams-Jefferson battle of 1800, the younger Adams-Jackson contest of 1824, or the Blaine-Cleveland fight of 1884, not to mention the dubious goings-on in Illinois and Texas in 1960 or in Florida in 2000.
Atheists say that the Bible supports rape. Let's look at the matter...
Does God Approve of Rape? (Dark Passages) |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: A charge made by some atheists is that the Bible supports rape and that the God of the Bible is therefore a moral monster.
There are a number of passages they appeal to, attempting to document this claim, but do they really support the charge that is being made?
Let's look at the matter
There are a number of passages they appeal to, attempting to document this claim, but do they really support the charge that is being made?
Let's look at the matter
Exactly how many canonized saints are there?
Saints 101: How Many Saints Are There?: Let’s first begin by re-phrasing the question: How many holy men and woman are recognized by the Catholic Church as saints? Because the answer to the first cannot really be known—the Catholic Church makes no claims that its list of saints is an exhaustive one. Certainly, there are numerous holy men and women who were, or rather are, saints, but whose status as such is not known, or, at least, not known now.
5 heretics that every Catholic should know...
Ascending Mount Carmel: Five Heretics That Every Catholic Should Know and Why They Matter Today: Oftentimes, what appears to be a newfangled spiritual movement within Christianity is often simply a regurgitated (and usually very watered-down) heresy from many centuries ago.
In the spirit of that statement, I thought it might be a good idea to list who I think are some of the heretics whose ideas are still active today; the next time someone attacks the Church with a particular statement or doctrinal assertion, you will be able to say, "Well, actually that was so-and-so who said that first, and he was condemned by the Council of ______".� It's always surprising to see where heretical ideas actually originated from.
In the spirit of that statement, I thought it might be a good idea to list who I think are some of the heretics whose ideas are still active today; the next time someone attacks the Church with a particular statement or doctrinal assertion, you will be able to say, "Well, actually that was so-and-so who said that first, and he was condemned by the Council of ______".� It's always surprising to see where heretical ideas actually originated from.
10 things you need to know today: October 30, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 30, 2012 - The Week: Hurricane Sandy slams the Northeast, UBS fires 10,000 bankers, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
What can the "kerygmatic" sermons of Acts teach us about the New Evangelization?
What do the “Kerygmatic” Sermons of Acts have to teach us about the New Evangelization? | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Yesterday on this blog we discussed what was meant by the term Kerygma.
Briefly reviewed, the term κήρυγμα, (Kerugma) is a Greek word meaning “proclamation”. The Greek word κηρύσσω, (kerusso) means “herald,” or one who proclaims. And thus the Kerygma is what is proclaimed. As the Apostles began the work of preaching and proclaiming Christ, they proclaimed a message that was rather basic and simple.
Briefly reviewed, the term κήρυγμα, (Kerugma) is a Greek word meaning “proclamation”. The Greek word κηρύσσω, (kerusso) means “herald,” or one who proclaims. And thus the Kerygma is what is proclaimed. As the Apostles began the work of preaching and proclaiming Christ, they proclaimed a message that was rather basic and simple.
Joe Biden's newest campaign video: "As a practicing Catholic..."
Video: Joe Biden, “Practicing Catholic” | CatholicVote.orgTHOMASPETERS: Really, I’ve had it with this whole administration.
And I’ve had it with Joe Biden’s cheapening of our Catholic faith.
A new video features Vice-President Joe Biden trying to pitch the official group “Catholics for Obama”.
Nothing the administration or Joe Biden can say at this point will surprise me. The only thing to do over the next 8 days is to work hard to accomplish their political defeat on November 6th.
You can watch the Biden ad here, but I’d recommend disliking it if after you opt to view it.
And I’ve had it with Joe Biden’s cheapening of our Catholic faith.
A new video features Vice-President Joe Biden trying to pitch the official group “Catholics for Obama”.
Nothing the administration or Joe Biden can say at this point will surprise me. The only thing to do over the next 8 days is to work hard to accomplish their political defeat on November 6th.
You can watch the Biden ad here, but I’d recommend disliking it if after you opt to view it.
I looked and there was nothing...
Creative Minority Report: I Looked And There Was NothingPATARCHBOLD: I live up on a hill 270 ft above and about 2.5 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. From the corner of my street we have the most amazing view of Fire Island and the ocean.
I am accustomed to looking out and seeing all the houses that dot Fire Island. I walked to the corner this morning and looked and there was nothing. No houses, and even no discernible Fire Island.
The devastation appears massive. Please pray for all those down by the shore, for those who didn't leave and for those who have lost everything.
Pray.
I am accustomed to looking out and seeing all the houses that dot Fire Island. I walked to the corner this morning and looked and there was nothing. No houses, and even no discernible Fire Island.
The devastation appears massive. Please pray for all those down by the shore, for those who didn't leave and for those who have lost everything.
Pray.
Northeast awakes to huge damage in storm's path; millions without power
Hurricane Sandy Barrels Region, Leaving Battered Path - NYTimes.com: As Hurricane Sandy churned inland as a downgraded storm, residents up and down the battered mid-Atlantic region woke on Tuesday to lingering waters, darkened homes and the daunting task of cleaning up from once-in-a-generation storm surges and their devastating effects.
Monday, October 29, 2012
New Advent blogger Barbara Curtis is in grave condition following a massive stroke...
In the Heart of my Home: to Give: Four years ago (almost to the day) Barbara Curtis and I crossed paths, quite literally. She was at Loudoun Hospital while her husband Tripp was recovering from surgery. I was there with a baby in the NICU. Barbara had just come into the Church and she told me how she longed to bring its traditions alive in her home for her children. Hers was a family in crisis then--Tripp's healing was complicated; their finances were burdensome; they had just lost their home. After I arrived home with my new baby, I wrote to you all and told you about Barbara. I asked you then to help her to celebrate Advent. And help you did! You volunteered to send care packages to the Curtis family, packages full of faith! You sent Advent in boxes from all over the country.�
Sandy makes landfall; rains, waves hammer East Coast
Hurricane Sandy makes landfall; rains, waves hammer East Coast - latimes.com: Hurricane Sandy made landfall on Monday evening, arriving ahead of schedule with a punch as powerful as feared.
The storm, with winds and driving rains that have already caused flooding up and down the Eastern Seaboard, made its heralded landfall near Atlantic City, N.J., around 8 p.m. Eastern time. It arrived slightly earlier than forecasters had originally projected because it had picked up speed, moving at about 28 mph.
The storm, with winds and driving rains that have already caused flooding up and down the Eastern Seaboard, made its heralded landfall near Atlantic City, N.J., around 8 p.m. Eastern time. It arrived slightly earlier than forecasters had originally projected because it had picked up speed, moving at about 28 mph.
"The Exorcist" author William Peter Blatty: "Georgetown today seems to take pride in insulting the Church and offending the faithful..."
‘Exorcist’ Author: GU Abusing Identity - Opinion - The Hoya: I loved Georgetown from the first day that I set my footlocker down in Healy Circle and asked an upperclassman how to find a room to put it in. I loved the Jesuits, too. In my novel “The Exorcist,” I thanked them for “teaching me to think.”
Georgetown gave me the gift of a liberal education that included the keys of reason to unlock the mysteries of faith. Throughout an undeservedly wonderful life, I have been guided by the light of my Georgetown education, grounded firmly, as I had been even in my youth, in the unmatched intellectual wealth of the Catholic Church. Each time I faltered — as I often did, sometimes grievously — that light never failed to come to my rescue.
Georgetown gave me the gift of a liberal education that included the keys of reason to unlock the mysteries of faith. Throughout an undeservedly wonderful life, I have been guided by the light of my Georgetown education, grounded firmly, as I had been even in my youth, in the unmatched intellectual wealth of the Catholic Church. Each time I faltered — as I often did, sometimes grievously — that light never failed to come to my rescue.
The final destruction of demons reveals a truth about the Kingdom of God...
The Final Destruction of Demons�|�Glory to God for All ThingsFREEMAN: The anti-sacramentalism (and non-sacramentalism) of some Christian groups is among the most unwittingly pernicious of all modern errors. Thought to be an argument about a minor point of doctrine, it is, instead, the collapse of the world into the empty literalism of secularity. In the literalism of the modern world (where a thing is a thing is a thing), nothing is ever more than what is seen. Thus every spiritual reality, every mystery, must be referred elsewhere – generally to the mind of God and the believer. Christianity becomes an ideology and a fantasy. It turns religious believing into a two-storey universe.
Are you tired of bad Catholic art? Here's something you can do about it...
Tired of Bad Church Art? Do Something About It!AKIN: Some years ago I went to a travelling exhibit of the Vatican art treasures.
One thing leapt out at me really clearly: In contrast to all the art treasures from previous centuries, the “art treasures” from the mid-20th century onward were terrible.
Sometime I want to post a picture of the “Millennium vestments” they designed for John Paul II. They look like some kind of alien dignitary costume from Star Trek Voyager.
One thing leapt out at me really clearly: In contrast to all the art treasures from previous centuries, the “art treasures” from the mid-20th century onward were terrible.
Sometime I want to post a picture of the “Millennium vestments” they designed for John Paul II. They look like some kind of alien dignitary costume from Star Trek Voyager.
See what happens when a bunch of trucks run into a low-clearance railroad trestle...
New Advent: Watch what happens when a bunch of trucks run into a low-clearance railroad trestle...: Featured Music By Bill Conti (Gonna Fly Now) - Rocky Theme Song. All footage provided by 11foot8.com (copyright Jürgen Henn). Editing courtesy of Tubezzz (the-tubez.prochan.com). This 100 year old bridge has withstood the test of time...
Consciences inflamed with love...
Beginning to Pray: Consciences Inflamed with LoveLILLES: We must follow our consciences, but the heart frozen to a cause instead of warmed by the truth is not free to love. �Catholics who act against human dignity in the voting booth often justify themselves by claiming that they are following their consciences and that they did everything they could to form their consciences in accord with the Church. �They reason, but their reasoning is callous and this cold indifference is revealed by the degree to which their actions rob others of the dignity that is owed them. �Only the chill of darkness can form the heart so cold.�
A revealing survey about the pilgrims of the new millennium...
Pilgrims of the New Millennium. A Revealing SurveyMAGISTER: In Italy "there exists in the Christian people a widespread treasure of humble and everyday heroism, which does not make news but builds history." This was said at the synod by Cardinal Angelo Bagnasco, president of the Italian episcopal conference. Adding that however "the people whom we meet in our communities often must rediscover the faith or discover it."
In recent days a sociological survey has been published that says a great deal about this widespread and multiform Christianity that characterizes "the Italian exception," but not only that.
In recent days a sociological survey has been published that says a great deal about this widespread and multiform Christianity that characterizes "the Italian exception," but not only that.
What do we mean by the term Kerygma?
What do we mean by the term Kerygma? | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In one of last week’s blog posts I made use of the term, Kerygma, and a number of people asked me to expand on the meaning of this term. To some extent, it is an example of one of those “Church words” which is rich in meaning to those who know, and have perhaps had been to seminary or studied advanced theology, but is largely unknown to many others. So let’s take a look at this term since it seems to be coming more central as we look to evangelizing a culture, almost from scratch.
Our culture is rejecting the Good News. We must be absolutely clear about that...
Sin and the SynodROYAL: The Synod on the New Evangelization ended on Saturday in Rome. Something like 260 bishops (and 400 total participants) assembled from every continent. Their deliberations occasionally rose to real insight and eloquence. The pope himself seemed pleased – which should count for a lot in anyone’s book.
How do fire eaters eat fire?
How Do Fire Eaters Eat Fire? - Mental Floss: Very carefully. No, I’m not being a smart aleck; fire eaters, from fakirs to sideshow performers, have very few secrets about their craft. Urban legend has it that fire eaters use “cold flames” that aren’t hot enough to burn the skin or coat their mouths with fireproofing chemicals, but any flame from any source is hot enough to burn the mouth (how many times have you burned the roof of your mouth on something as innocent as piece of pizza?) and applying flame-retarding chemicals to the mouth can pose health risks. The tricks of the trade are precision, practice and the knowledge of one simple law—heat travels upward.
East coast braces as Hurricane Sandy and storm surge pose historic 'worst case scenario'...
Sandy and storm surge pose 'worst case scenario' - CBS News: The projected storm surge from Hurricane Sandy is a "worst case scenario" with devastating waves and tides predicted for the highly populated New York City metro area, government forecasters said Sunday.
The more they observe it, the more the experts worry about the water — which usually kills and does more damage than winds in hurricanes.
The more they observe it, the more the experts worry about the water — which usually kills and does more damage than winds in hurricanes.
The Smiling Pope’s letter to Mark Twain: Humor, Hitler, and three different Johns...
The Smiling Pope’s Letter to Mark Twain: Humor, Hitler, and Three Different Johns : IgnitumTodayVOGT: What if Cardinal Timothy Dolan became Pope? That’s probably a long-shot, but it’s a question I’ve been hearing more and more especially as his star rises across the world. When asked, one answer I like to give is, “Well, look back to 1978 and find out.”
Sandwiched between the prophetic Pope Paul VI and the magnetic Pope John Paul II, Pope John Paul I was one of the twentieth century’s most charming Catholic leaders. He reigned as vicar of Christ for just 33 days before his unexpected death. But in those five weeks, he wooed the world.
Like the jolly archbishop of New York, John Paul liked his religion tinged with humor. He was a natural joker with a big, beaming smile. To this day Italians remember him as “Il Papa del Sorriso”—the Smiling Pope.
Sandwiched between the prophetic Pope Paul VI and the magnetic Pope John Paul II, Pope John Paul I was one of the twentieth century’s most charming Catholic leaders. He reigned as vicar of Christ for just 33 days before his unexpected death. But in those five weeks, he wooed the world.
Like the jolly archbishop of New York, John Paul liked his religion tinged with humor. He was a natural joker with a big, beaming smile. To this day Italians remember him as “Il Papa del Sorriso”—the Smiling Pope.
5 YouTube videos that are turning heads toward the Catholic Church...
5 YouTube Videos that Turn Heads TOWARDS Catholicism : IgnitumTodayBURDICK: Jesus used shock and awe as his mode of Evangelization from time to time. Therefore, my assumption is that we should follow in his sandal steps and provide the world with a little bit of that wow factor they need to spark their interest in all things Catholic. After all, the Bride of Christ is just as mind-blowing and compelling as the Groom, so why don’t people see it that way?
Here are five YouTube videos and accompanying actions that showcase some of the lesser known aspects that make our religion awesome. I dare you to post one onto your Facebook wall and/or Twitter feed right now.
Here are five YouTube videos and accompanying actions that showcase some of the lesser known aspects that make our religion awesome. I dare you to post one onto your Facebook wall and/or Twitter feed right now.
What Google Street View reveals about why women don't want to stay home...
What Google Street View Reveals About Why Women Don't Want to Stay Home |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: Yesterday I looked up my house on Google Street View. I was curious to see how many stray tricycles and scooters would be strewn across our front porch in the image, and I had a lot of work to do and therefore wanted to procrastinate.
Not particularly eager to get back to my to-do list, I ended up clicking around to take a tour of my entire neighborhood. I virtually meandered in and out of familiar streets, turning around in cul de sacs, stopping to admire some of the beautifully manicured yards of my neighbors. I kept admonishing myself that this was a waste of time and I needed to go do something else, but something kept pulling me back -- and it wasn't just my desire to procrastinate. Seeing my neighborhood through my computer screen, in this odd format in which it was entirely the same yet entirely different than what I'm used to seeing in real life, gave me a new perspective on the place where I live. There was something about it, something disconcerting that I couldn't quite put my finger on.
Not particularly eager to get back to my to-do list, I ended up clicking around to take a tour of my entire neighborhood. I virtually meandered in and out of familiar streets, turning around in cul de sacs, stopping to admire some of the beautifully manicured yards of my neighbors. I kept admonishing myself that this was a waste of time and I needed to go do something else, but something kept pulling me back -- and it wasn't just my desire to procrastinate. Seeing my neighborhood through my computer screen, in this odd format in which it was entirely the same yet entirely different than what I'm used to seeing in real life, gave me a new perspective on the place where I live. There was something about it, something disconcerting that I couldn't quite put my finger on.
10 things you need to know today: October 29, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 29, 2012 - The Week: The Northeast hunkers down, the Giants sweep the World Series, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Homily at Mass concluding Ordinary Assembly XIII of the Synod of Bishops
xCOATOFARMS: The miracle of the healing of blind Bartimaeus comes at a significant point in the structure of Saint Mark’s Gospel. It is situated at the end of the section on the “journey to Jerusalem”, that is, Jesus’ last pilgrimage to the Holy City, for the Passover, in which he knows that his passion, death and resurrection await him. In order to ascend to Jerusalem from the Jordan valley, Jesus passes through Jericho, and the meeting with Bartimaeus occurs as he leaves the city – in the evangelist’s words, “as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude” (10:46). This is the multitude that soon afterwards would acclaim Jesus as Messiah on his entry into Jerusalem. Sitting and begging by the side of the road was Bartimaeus, whose name means “son of Timaeus”, as the evangelist tells us. The whole of Mark’s Gospel is a journey of faith, which develops gradually under Jesus’ tutelage. The disciples are the first actors on this journey of discovery, but there are also other characters who play an important role, and Bartimaeus is one of them. His is the last miraculous healing that Jesus performs before his passion, and it is no accident that it should be that of a blind person, someone whose eyes have lost the light. We know from other texts too that the state of blindness has great significance in the Gospels.
Suicide bomber kills eight, injures 100 in Nigerian Catholic church...
Suicide bomber kills eight, injures 100 in Nigerian church | Reuters: A suicide bomber drove a jeep packed with explosives into a Catholic church in northern Nigeria on Sunday, killing at least eight people, injuring more than 100 and triggering reprisal attacks that killed at least two more, officials said.
Some atheists think that the Gospels were based on the Egyptian Book of the Dead. That's Horus manure, and here's why...
Horus Manure: Debunking the Jesus/Horus Connection | JonSorensen.netSORENSEN: Part of the problem with the “Jesus is Horus” claim is that in order to find items that even partially fit the life story of Jesus, advocates of the view must cherry-pick bits of myth from different epochs of Egyptian history. This is possible today because modern archaeology has given us extensive knowledge of Egypt’s religious beliefs and how they changed over time, making it possible to cite one detail from this version of a story and another from that.
But the early Christians, even if they had wanted to base the Gospels on the Horus myths, would have had no way to do so. They might have known what was believed about Horus in the Egypt of their day, but they would have had no access to the endless variations of the stories that laid buried in the sands until archaeologists started digging them up in the 1800s.
But the early Christians, even if they had wanted to base the Gospels on the Horus myths, would have had no way to do so. They might have known what was believed about Horus in the Egypt of their day, but they would have had no access to the endless variations of the stories that laid buried in the sands until archaeologists started digging them up in the 1800s.
10 things you need to know today: October 28, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 28, 2012 - The Week: Sandy will make landfall in the U.S., the Des Moines Register endorses Romney, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
A 15th-century painting of the Infant Jesus — in a baby walker...
The Infant Jesus in a Baby Walker - Retronaut: “The Holy Family at Work. 92. From the Book of Hours of Catherine of Clèves, containing the prayers and litanies of the Mass in Latin, decorated with 157 lavishly colored and gilded illuminations by the Dutch artist, the Clèves Master, c. 1440, in Gothic style.”
Incredible 180-degree vertical panoramas of New York City churches...
Flavorwire � Incredible 180-Degree Panoramas of NYC Churches: We don’t know about you, but any time we walk into a majestic building, one of the first things we do is lean our heads back to take in the ceiling, and to really feel the building’s size and shape. That’s exactly what Richard Silver’s panoramas of gorgeous New York City churches feel like, at least if you add a few degrees of lower back flexibility. Silver’s panoramas, which we spotted over at PetaPixel are actually frankenphotos, consisting of 6-10 photos stitched together in Photoshop — a beautiful way to experience these beautiful buildinsg. Click through to see a few of Silver’s churches, and then be sure to head on over to his website to check out some more of his work.
The holy angels are messengers of prayer...
Angels: Messengers of prayer: The word angel means “messenger” in Greek, and the witness of scripture and many ancient Christian writers suggests one of the main jobs angels undertake is to act as courier for our prayers.
The archangels Raphael and Gabriel both identify themselves as angels who stand in the presence of the Lord. Raphael helpfully explains the purpose of this position in the twelfth chapter of Tobit, saying that he “present[s] the prayers of the saints,” telling Tobit and Tobias that he “brought a reminder of your prayer before the Holy One.”
The archangels Raphael and Gabriel both identify themselves as angels who stand in the presence of the Lord. Raphael helpfully explains the purpose of this position in the twelfth chapter of Tobit, saying that he “present[s] the prayers of the saints,” telling Tobit and Tobias that he “brought a reminder of your prayer before the Holy One.”
Holy Father concludes Synod with Mass and Angelus appeal for Hurricane Sandy victims
Vatican Radio - Pope concludes Synod with Mass, <i>Angelus</i> appeal for hurricane victims: Pope Benedict XVI launched an appeal on Sunday for the victims and all those affected by Hurricane Sandy, which killed more than twenty people across the Caribbean last week, striking the Bahamas, Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica with particular force. The Holy Father assured all those affected by the storm of his spiritual closeness, and promised to remember the victims in prayer. Pope Benedict asked all the faithful to pray for those affected as well, and issued a general call for concrete acts of solidarity.
A man who saw by hearing: A meditation on Sunday's Gospel...
A Man Who Saw by Hearing – A Meditation on the Gospel of the 30th Sunday of the Year | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In today’s gospel there is a very familiar story of the healing of the blind man Bartimaeus. As with any familiar story, the danger is that we, upon hearing its opening lines say, “Oh that story,” and we just sort of tune out. But there are many things in the details of the story that we can easily miss. Ultimately the story of Bartimaeus is also our story, for we too must let the Lord heal our blindness and give us sight. One paradox of this gospel that we shall note, is that the man receives his sight as the result of hearing.
Pope to transfer Vatican jurisdiction of seminaries and catechesis...
Pope to Transfer Vatican Jurisdiction of Seminaries and Catechesis |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Pope Benedict XVI is to issue an Apostolic Letter motu proprio in the near future that transfers jurisdiction of seminaries from the Congregation for Catholic Education to the Congregation for the Clergy, and the competence of catechesis from the Congregation for the Clergy to the new Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization.
Last Call in the Aula: At Synod's End, the Pope Shifts Chairs
Whispers in the Loggia: Last Call In the Aula: At Synod's End, The Pope Shifts ChairsPALMO: Even if it doesn't formally wrap up until morning with a closing Mass in St Peter's, the work of the Synod of Bishops on the New Evangelization reached its close today with the assembly's last business session... and a noteworthy comment from the Pope before his final homily tomorrow.
In impromptu remarks to the gathering, B16 announced a small, but significant shift of functions within the Roman Curia, transferring the Vatican's oversight of seminaries – held until now by the Congregation for Catholic Education – to the auspices of the Congregation for the Clergy, while the latter's longtime authority over catechetical programs and materials will be given to the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization (PCPNE), which Benedict established in 2009.
In impromptu remarks to the gathering, B16 announced a small, but significant shift of functions within the Roman Curia, transferring the Vatican's oversight of seminaries – held until now by the Congregation for Catholic Education – to the auspices of the Congregation for the Clergy, while the latter's longtime authority over catechetical programs and materials will be given to the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization (PCPNE), which Benedict established in 2009.
Coming soon to a door near you! Mormon missionary applications jump 471 percent...
LDS missionary applications jump 471 percent | Deseret News: During the last two weeks, nearly five times the typical number of young Latter-day Saints have begun the application process to serve as full-time missionaries.
The leap was precipitated by an announcement earlier this month that reduced the minimum age for missionary service.
In a statement issued late Monday afternoon, church spokesman Michael Purdy said that while about 700 new applications are typically started each week, during the last two weeks "that number has increased to approximately 4,000 per week."
The leap was precipitated by an announcement earlier this month that reduced the minimum age for missionary service.
In a statement issued late Monday afternoon, church spokesman Michael Purdy said that while about 700 new applications are typically started each week, during the last two weeks "that number has increased to approximately 4,000 per week."
Why must we evangelize? Because Hell is real, and many people go there...
New Advent: Why must we evangelize? Because Hell is real, and many people go there...: Ralph Martin, an official expert at the synod on the new evangelization, talks about restoring the church's missionary zeal. For more information, click here: http://www.eerdmans.com/Products/6887/will-many-be-saved.aspx
What's in a name? St. Jude Thaddeus...
What's in a name? St. Jude Thaddeus | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: Today we celebrate the feast of Sts. Simon and Jude. While Simon was from Cana and is called the Zealot, Jude is known as Thaddeus. This “Jude” is distinct from Judas the Iscariot who betrayed our Lord – this “Jude” is among the “brethren of the Lord”, a cousin of our Savior.
One small disappointment about the new translation is in the rendering of St. Jude’s name in the list of the apostles in the Roman Canon. While the Latin sates Thaddaei, the English reads “Jude”. Certainly, Thaddeus is the same Jude brother of James, the author of the last biblical epistle. Yet, it is rather disheartening that the new English translation follows the old in changing the name from “Thaddeus” to “Jude”.
One small disappointment about the new translation is in the rendering of St. Jude’s name in the list of the apostles in the Roman Canon. While the Latin sates Thaddaei, the English reads “Jude”. Certainly, Thaddeus is the same Jude brother of James, the author of the last biblical epistle. Yet, it is rather disheartening that the new English translation follows the old in changing the name from “Thaddeus” to “Jude”.
This must be the first photograph of two saints together...
New Advent: This must be the first photograph of two saints together...RUTLER: The canonization of Marianne Cope, along with Kateri Tekakwitha, on October 21, occasioned the publication of a stunning photograph showing Marianne standing beside the funeral bier of St. Damien in Kalaupapa, Molokai. That was in 1889, and the picture is so sharp that it could have been taken today. It must be the first photograph of two saints together. The holy friendships of Teresa of Avila with John of the Cross, and Francis de Sales with Jane de Chantal illuminated civilization before photography.
Two siblings, finally meeting each other, face to face...
Where's My List?: Untitled...: We buried our baby yesterday.
Under brilliant blue skies (with only ONE cloud in sight, haha), surrounded by technicolour autumn leaves, and with the warm sun on our skin, we gathered with friends and celebrated the short life of our little baby.
It was beautiful. �It was slightly surreal.
And it opened the floodgates.
Under brilliant blue skies (with only ONE cloud in sight, haha), surrounded by technicolour autumn leaves, and with the warm sun on our skin, we gathered with friends and celebrated the short life of our little baby.
It was beautiful. �It was slightly surreal.
And it opened the floodgates.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Some parishes are holding all-night Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Election Eve. Is yours among them?
Te Deum laudamus!: Assumption Grotto is holding All-Night Adoration on Election Eve; is your parish doing something special?KORZENIEWSKI: When the disciples of Jesus could not drive demons out they asked Jesus in private why this was so. �If you recall, Our Lord told them that some demons can only be cast out by prayer and fasting (MK 9:29). With so many attacks against the Church and against life itself, our temporal actions cannot equal the power of our spiritual actions. �This doesn't mean we should not be engaged in the public square; rather, it must be coupled with prayer and fasting.
Don’t forget to say "of the"...
Don’t Forget the “Of The’s” : Accepting AbundanceTRASANCOS: Sometimes little things make a big difference. I saw this reminder in a child’s catechism book, and it has become something we repeat daily around here. Don’t forget the “of the’s.” It is not correct to say, “In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Why is that so important?
In the baptismal formula at the end of the Gospel of Matthew, Christ articulated it this way...
In the baptismal formula at the end of the Gospel of Matthew, Christ articulated it this way...
It is false and dangerous to treat freedom as the highest good...
ARE CATHOLICS BECOMING SECULAR LIBERALS: OBAMA AND THE CATHOLIC VOTE | Prayer and PerspectiveHINKEL: There’s an interesting story about an unusual problem St. Francis of Assisi had to face once his fame began to spread and followers and disciples had begun to collect around him. It seems some early Franciscans understood Francis as a religious Robin Hood; their error led to them robbing the rich to give to the poor. To counter this threat, Pope Innocent III sought to ordain Francis to the priesthood in order to give the latter greater juridical leverage within the burgeoning community. Although Francis’ humility prevented him from being ordained to the priesthood, he did accept ordination to the diaconate. This, as the story goes, was one of the sets of conditions that initiated not only his official canonical recognition as a religious brother and founder of a community in the Church, but also the codification of the Rule of Life in his order to prevent further abuses.
Who is the wealthiest person in your state? Meet all 50 here...
The Wealthiest Person In Each US State - Business Insider: The research firm Wealth-X recently released a report listing the richest person in each U.S. state.
This new rich list shows that 41 states are home to billionaires who obtained their wealth in diverse ways, ranging from the financial sector to energy to media, according to the Daily Mail.
Unsurprisingly, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and Larry Ellison nabbed the top spots for their states.
This new rich list shows that 41 states are home to billionaires who obtained their wealth in diverse ways, ranging from the financial sector to energy to media, according to the Daily Mail.
Unsurprisingly, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet and Larry Ellison nabbed the top spots for their states.
What to do when love and career collide...
When Love and Career Collide — eHarmony BlogeHarmony BlogCAMPBELL: Like most women in my post-feminist generation, I grew up knowing exactly what I did not want when it came to love and work. I did not want to sacrifice my personal life at the altar of the all-consuming career. Nor did I want to surrender professional success in a fit of passion or panic over my biological clock, only to wind up dependent on an unappreciative man. I never had considered myself a fervent feminist, but I respected modern feminism’s first commandment when it came to relationships: Never give up more for a man than he gives up for you.
If you want to see clearly, close your eyes...
To See Clearly Close Your EyesLONGENECKER: What I mean is, pray more. These are the things that blind us: egotism. I’m blind about myself. I think I’m delightful. There’s nothing wrong with me. It’s everybody else’s fault. I’m fine. It’s a conspiracy theory. Close your eyes in prayer to see yourself more clearly.
Money. When I worry about money I can’t see other things clearly. All I can see are dollar signs. If you close your eyes in prayer you will see everything else more clearly and soon you will see the birds of the air and the flowers of the field. They do not worry about what they shall wear or eat or drink.
Money. When I worry about money I can’t see other things clearly. All I can see are dollar signs. If you close your eyes in prayer you will see everything else more clearly and soon you will see the birds of the air and the flowers of the field. They do not worry about what they shall wear or eat or drink.
The Synod in Rome is winding down, and I'm sitting here daydreaming...
You Teach Us Our Faith � The Gospel in the Digital AgeDOLAN: In this little courtyard sits about two dozen abandoned women.� They are now clean, in fresh clothes, and just finished a hearty breakfast.� They’re smiling . . . they’re singing hymns taught them by the sisters . . . and they’re learning the rosary from one of the Missionaries of Charity.
And I’m sitting here thinking . . .� Those sisters are brilliantly doing the New Evangelization.� They haven’t been listening to our debates, and may or may not even read our propositions, or the ultimate document.
But they sure understand the imperative of the New Evangelization.� They probably say to us, “What’s all the fuss? Just love God and the ‘least of these’ as Jesus taught.”
And I’m sitting here thinking . . .� Those sisters are brilliantly doing the New Evangelization.� They haven’t been listening to our debates, and may or may not even read our propositions, or the ultimate document.
But they sure understand the imperative of the New Evangelization.� They probably say to us, “What’s all the fuss? Just love God and the ‘least of these’ as Jesus taught.”
10 things you need to know today: October 27, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 27, 2012 - The Week: The Northeast braces for 'Frankenstorm,' Berlusconi is sentenced to prison, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Satan likes to hide, but every now and then, he shows his face...
Satan Likes to Hide, but every now and then, He shows his face. | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: It would seem that one of the more common tactics of Satan in our times is to hide and/or disguise himself. Indeed, in our times he is never more powerful than when he is denied or forgotten. In secular and rationalistic times why should he tip his hand too frequently or do anything that might cause further belief in the supernatural?
In other ages, more noted for faith, and where few denied either the existence of God nor the presences of demons and angels, it would seem that Satan was far more likely to use fear and would often disclose his presence more widely. Demonic torments, obsessions and possessions were more frequent, and people took the presence of demons for granted. Jesus Frequently drove demons out, and exorcism was once a widely used sacramental in the Church.
In other ages, more noted for faith, and where few denied either the existence of God nor the presences of demons and angels, it would seem that Satan was far more likely to use fear and would often disclose his presence more widely. Demonic torments, obsessions and possessions were more frequent, and people took the presence of demons for granted. Jesus Frequently drove demons out, and exorcism was once a widely used sacramental in the Church.
Let me point out in stark relief what will come if Obama is reelected...
First They Came for the Catholics… |Blogs | NCRegister.comZMIRAK: I’ve been stunned to see how trivial the religious freedom issue has proved in the campaign, and how few Catholics realize the lethal stakes for which we’re playing. Have there been TV ads about this that I’ve missed? Why wasn’t this subject raised in the debates?
Probably because even the candidates who favor our point of view know it's not a winning issue. It matters to you and me but it will not move the needle on Election Day. Huge “swing” states full of Catholics will not be swayed by a major persecution of the Church being enacted by the government.
Probably because even the candidates who favor our point of view know it's not a winning issue. It matters to you and me but it will not move the needle on Election Day. Huge “swing” states full of Catholics will not be swayed by a major persecution of the Church being enacted by the government.
Seeing the Son of David: The 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time...
Faith and Reason | Seeing the Son of David: Scott Hahn Reflects on the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time | Catholic videos on faith and reason presented by Franciscan University of SteubenvilleHAHN: Today’s Gospel turns on an irony—it is a blind man, Bartimaeus, who becomes the first besides the apostles to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. And His healing is the last miracle Jesus performs before entering the holy city of Jerusalem for His last week on earth.
The scene on the road to Jerusalem evokes the joyful procession prophesied by Jeremiah in today’s First Reading. In Jesus this prophecy is fulfilled. God, through the Messiah, is delivering His people from exile, bringing them back from the ends of the earth, with the blind and lame in their midst.
The scene on the road to Jerusalem evokes the joyful procession prophesied by Jeremiah in today’s First Reading. In Jesus this prophecy is fulfilled. God, through the Messiah, is delivering His people from exile, bringing them back from the ends of the earth, with the blind and lame in their midst.
Pontifical commission “Ecclesia Dei” issues declaration, breathes new life into SSPX reconciliation hopes
Declaration of the Pontifical Commission “Ecclesia Dei” about the SSPX and the discussions | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?: The Pontifical Commission “Ecclesia Dei” takes this occasion to announce that, in its most recent official communication (6 September 2012), the Priestly Fraternity of St. Pius X has indicated that additional time for reflection and study is needed on their part as they prepare their response to the Holy See’s latest initiatives.The current stage in the ongoing discussions between the Holy See and the Priestly Fraternity follows three years of doctrinal and theological dialogues during which a joint commission met eight times to study and discuss, among other matters, some disputed issues in the interpretation of certain documents of Vatican Council II. Once these doctrinal dialogues were concluded, it became possible to proceed to a phase of discussion more directly focused on the greatly desired reconciliation of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Pius X with the See of Peter.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Massive "Frankenstorm" closing in on New York, and 9 other things you need to know today: October 26, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 26, 2012 - The Week: Violence threatens Syria's hours-old truce, Hurricane Sandy heads to the U.S., and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Having a child with Down syndrome has taught me that there's more to life than "perfection"...
A little extra - The Arlington Catholic HeraldCURTIS: It’s taught me that not everything can be measured in dollars and cents — the benefits of full-inclusion extend beyond a child with Down syndrome to his classmates, teachers, family and friends. Advocating for Jonny — and the three unwanted babies with Down syndrome we’ve since adopted — eventually drew me to Catholicism for its uncompromising position on the value of life. How amazing that God could use our special son — now an altar boy — in this way.
Catholic couple's "apostolic hobby" rescues 1,400 Chinese orphans...
Catholic couple rescues 1,400 Chinese orphans :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): An American couple living in China for 15 years says their success in rescuing over 1,000 medically-fragile orphans is due to totally relying on God, especially during trying times.
“You really have to have an absolute dependence on God that the money's gonna show up when you need it and that you're going to stay out of trouble,” Brent Johnson of the organization China Little Flower told CNA Oct. 17.
“You really have to have an absolute dependence on God that the money's gonna show up when you need it and that you're going to stay out of trouble,” Brent Johnson of the organization China Little Flower told CNA Oct. 17.
Prayer is not just a matter of feelings or imagination. Prayer is a true conversation with God Himself...
Beginning to Pray: Prayer as a Theological ActLILLES: Some look at prayer as merely the indulgence of devout feelings or a pious exercise of the imagination or else a plunge into an empty abyss of meaninglessness. � Still others approach prayer as something to be mastered by technique, program or method. � Probably, there are religious traditions that advocate such approaches to prayer. � But the Catholic tradition, and traditional Christianity as a whole, discerns prayer as essentially theological: a sacred conversation with the Hidden God revealed by the Word made flesh.
Batman actor Christian Bale condemns forced abortion in China, honors blind activist Chen Guangcheng
Batman actor Christian Bale condemns forced abortion in China, honors blind activist Chen Guangcheng | LifeSiteNews.com: Actor Christian Bale presented blind forced abortion opponent Chen Guangcheng with an award last night at the annual gala of Human Rights First.�
In December 2011, while Chen was still in China under house arrest, Bale attempted to visit Chen but was roughed up by thugs, who prevented him from visiting Chen’s village.� Bale said at that time, “What I really wanted to do was shake the man’s hand and say ‘thank you,’ and tell him what an inspiration he is.”
In December 2011, while Chen was still in China under house arrest, Bale attempted to visit Chen but was roughed up by thugs, who prevented him from visiting Chen’s village.� Bale said at that time, “What I really wanted to do was shake the man’s hand and say ‘thank you,’ and tell him what an inspiration he is.”
Talking about rape: What pro-life politicians desperately need to know...
Talking about rape: What pro-life politicians desperately need to know |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Recently �a couple of pro-life political candidates have made dramatic, embarrassing statements about rape.
The first was Todd Akin of Missouri (no relation, as far as I know), who referred to the odds that a woman will have a baby if she has been subjected to "legitimate rape."
GAH!
More recently, Richard Mourdock of Indiana seemed to suggest that sometimes "God intended" rape.
GAH!
It's clear that some pro-life politicians need to learn better how to talk about this subject. So let's take a look at it and see what lessons there are...
The first was Todd Akin of Missouri (no relation, as far as I know), who referred to the odds that a woman will have a baby if she has been subjected to "legitimate rape."
GAH!
More recently, Richard Mourdock of Indiana seemed to suggest that sometimes "God intended" rape.
GAH!
It's clear that some pro-life politicians need to learn better how to talk about this subject. So let's take a look at it and see what lessons there are...
If Mary is immaculately conceived, why does Jesus seem to rebuke her in the Gospels?
The Immaculate Conception: The Witness of the Gospels, Part 1 |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Jesus’ seeming rebuke of Mary has the same character. It’s an apparent denial that turns out to be an affirmation. For neither Jesus nor Mark is saying that biological families are evil and should be repudiated, while only spiritual families are good. Rather, Jesus is saying that biological families are good, that spiritual families are even better and, in a larger context, calling us to unite these two aspects of family altogether. Jesus declares, “Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother.” The only way we can take that as a rebuke of Mary would be to show that she refused to do God’s will. But Luke has already made clear that she eagerly obeyed God. Indeed, Mary’s words are those of the quintessential disciple, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). So she is Jesus’ mother in both the biological and the spiritual sense and he means us to understand this, just as he means us to understand that he really is good, and therefore really is God.
If you don't know the bad news, the Good News makes no sense...
The Good News needs the bad news to make sense. A call for the balance of orthodoxy. | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: One of the struggles that many people have an understanding the good news the Church proclaims, is that many people have either not heard, or are not in touch with the bad news.
Imagine a man reading the headlines of the newspaper announcing a miraculous cure for a terrible and deadly disease. But imagine again that the man has never heard of the disease, let alone knows that he has it. Thus, the headline of the miraculous cure would likely have little impact on him, and he would think to himself “Ho hum, let’s see what else is in the paper.”
Imagine a man reading the headlines of the newspaper announcing a miraculous cure for a terrible and deadly disease. But imagine again that the man has never heard of the disease, let alone knows that he has it. Thus, the headline of the miraculous cure would likely have little impact on him, and he would think to himself “Ho hum, let’s see what else is in the paper.”
"We must convert to the power of Christ": The Synod of Bishops releases its closing message...
Whispers in the Loggia: The Church Is "Called to Something New" – The Synod's Parting WordPALMO: Much as the gathering formally closes with Mass on Sunday morning in St Peter's, shortly after Roman Noon today, the closing message of the Synod of Bishops for the New Evangelization was released to the entire church.
Prepared by a a ten-member group of the gathering's Fathers – chaired by Cardinal Giuseppe Betori of Florence, aided by a top-shelf committee including Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York and the "Thrilla from Manila," now Cardinal-designate Chito Tagle – the statement (directed, as always, to "The People of God") stands separate from the Apostolic Exhortation which will serve as the Pope's final word on the three-week event.
Prepared by a a ten-member group of the gathering's Fathers – chaired by Cardinal Giuseppe Betori of Florence, aided by a top-shelf committee including Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York and the "Thrilla from Manila," now Cardinal-designate Chito Tagle – the statement (directed, as always, to "The People of God") stands separate from the Apostolic Exhortation which will serve as the Pope's final word on the three-week event.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Confessions of a party girl...
xCAMPBELL: I still remember the sundress I was wearing that morning; it was black, scoop-necked, and short. Its thin fabric hung loosely on my frame, thanks to punishing daily workouts and a scrupulously fat-free diet, but I felt uncomfortably warm. Perched on the windowsill of our fourth-floor apartment...
Temptation, tattoos, and major league baseball...
Temptation, Tattoos and Phillies Pitcher Justin De Fratus | FaithWorksCARNEY: Justin De Fratus wears a permanent reminder to resist temptation.
The major league pitcher looks at the tattoo on the back of his left hand. At the base of his thumb and index finger are two letters and two Greek symbols. They remind him of his commitment to God and his Catholic faith.
The major league pitcher looks at the tattoo on the back of his left hand. At the base of his thumb and index finger are two letters and two Greek symbols. They remind him of his commitment to God and his Catholic faith.
Canon law supports, and in some cases demands, that Holy Communion be withheld from certain Catholics...
Article | First ThingsEDPETERS: For several years, Raymond Cardinal Burke, now Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, and I have been among the chief exponents of the view that Catholic sacramental and canonical discipline supports, and in some cases demands, that Catholic ministers withhold Holy Communion from certain Catholics in response to their public conduct. In particular, serious questions have arisen about the eligibility of some prominent political figures to receive Communion. Almost invariably, these questions focus on their personal, albeit public, conduct, rather than their beliefs, and are being decided, or conspicuously not decided, case by case.
I saw “Lincoln” the other night. Here are five takeaways…
I saw “Lincoln” last night: here are five takeaways…KANDRA: I expected the film to have An Agenda.� And yes, those looking for one will find some modern parallels. When a congressman takes to the floor and pounds the podium to condemn the notion of giving rights to slaves because it’s against “natural law,” you suspect the filmmakers have something else in mind besides just the 13th Amendment. �And maybe they do. But those moments are few and far between. With “Lincoln,” I really think they were trying to do justice to a vitally important moment in history—and the long long loooong list of advisors and academics at the end indicates that they have tried to be faithful and get it right. Whether they have will be for others to judge. �But I came away from it moved, and mightily impressed.
This 5-minute video was made for a class project, and it's a gem: "Seeking God in the Quiet"...
New Advent: This 5-minute video was made for a class project, and it's a gem: "Seeking God in the Quiet"...: "For my final project for Sr. Mary Anne Linder's Catechetics class, we had to take one of the letters from C.S. Lewis's Screwtape Letters and rewrite it in a unique way. I decided to put together a stop-motion video highlighting some of the themes in Letter VII. In my presentation, I show a multi-media user who is busy watching TV, playing games, checking facebook, and talking on the phone ... all at one time!"
The top 10 most important Church councils...
The Top Ten Most Important Church CouncilsBEALE: To be deep into history, John Henry Newman wrote, is to cease to be a Protestant. Put another way, to be deep into history is to become stronger in the Catholic faith—something we are all called to do in this Year of Faith.
To make that journey into the history of our faith is to discover anew its most basic tenets. Who was Jesus really? How can God be three persons in one being? What is the proper role of the Church in salvation? And how does Mary fit into all this?
These questions, and many more, were raised and answered in the ecumenical, or universal, Church councils.
To make that journey into the history of our faith is to discover anew its most basic tenets. Who was Jesus really? How can God be three persons in one being? What is the proper role of the Church in salvation? And how does Mary fit into all this?
These questions, and many more, were raised and answered in the ecumenical, or universal, Church councils.
When “carrying my cross” is code for “I'm a huge control freak who can't let go"...
When “carrying my cross” is code for “I’M A HUGE CONTROL FREAK WHO CAN’T LET GO!!!” : Conversion DiaryFULWILER: The other day I was talking with a friend of mine about the spiritual challenges that we face on a day-to-day basis (which is completely representative of all of our conversations; we only ever talk about how we might grow in holiness, and would never, ever spend 30 minutes complaining about the annoying things we saw on Twitter that morning). She asked me what my biggest struggle was, and I came up with this...
Tactics of gay lobby may have chilling impact on academic freedom...
Tactics of Gay Lobby May Have Chilling Impact on Academic Freedom | Crisis MagazineODDIE: I want to be clear, at the outset, that this is not yet another blog about Catholic teaching on the morality of homosexuality, nor is it (except indirectly) one more defense of the traditional family. It’s partly (but again indirectly) about the social effects of treating homosexual unions as though they were equivalent to marriage based on the union of one man and one woman: but again, it’s not about the morality or theology of active homosexuality.
This really works: How to use executive email addresses to get around customer service roadblocks...
Use Executive Email Addresses to Get Around Customer Service Roadblocks: If you're having a hard time getting anyone at a company to respond to your service issue, or worse, everyone responds but no one's willing to actually work on it or resolve it, it's time to take your complaint to the top. Most people at their wits end find that a well-worded and actionable email to a corporate executive gets quick and effective results, and the folks over at The Consumerist have a great guide to figuring out those executive email addresses if Google fails you.
The New Exodus: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time...
The Sacred Page: The New Exodus: 30th Sunday in Ordinary TimeBERGSMA: The readings for this Sunday revolve around the theme of return from exile for God's people.� In the Old Testament, we read about God's people Israel being exiled from their land because of their violations of their covenant with God.� The great Isrealite prophets, however, predicted that God would bring his people back from the places they were exiled, just as he brought them out of Egypt by the hand of Moses long ago.� This is often called the "New Exodus" theme in the prophets.
A little parable on the false promises of this world...
Promises, Promises! A little parable on the false promises of this world | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: One of the great illusions under which we labor is, that if we just get one more thing from this world, then we will be happy. Perhaps we think that if we just had a little more money, or a better job, or the latest iPad, or if we were married to so and so, or if we just lived in a better neighborhood….then we would be satisfied and content, at last. But “at last” never comes, even if we do get some of the things on our list.
It's back to 'College' on the eve of the consistory...
Whispers in the Loggia: On Consistory Eve, Back to "College"PALMO: While the Main Event – the "Consistory of Creation" itself – has been called for November 24th, it's worth noting that, per usual, the entrance of six new cardinals into the Pope's "Senate" is likely to begin a day earlier with another edition of the now-traditional daylong meeting for prayer and consultation B16 has invariably elected to hold with his closest advisors, cardinals-designate and those older than 80 included.
Calgary Catholic schools may soon offer HPV vaccinations to children...
Catholic schools to consult parents on HPV vaccine: After coming under significant scrutiny in recent months, the city’s Catholic school board is taking a second look at its decision four years ago to deny HPV vaccinations in its schools.
Calgary Catholic School District trustees voted unanimously Wednesday night in favour of consulting parents on the issue, following discussions with Bishop Fred Henry and in “light of recent medical studies and developments.”
Health advocates and some parents have urged the Catholic board to change its position, and even raised the spectre of legal action to force schools to offer the vaccine.
Calgary Catholic School District trustees voted unanimously Wednesday night in favour of consulting parents on the issue, following discussions with Bishop Fred Henry and in “light of recent medical studies and developments.”
Health advocates and some parents have urged the Catholic board to change its position, and even raised the spectre of legal action to force schools to offer the vaccine.
Olive trees in Garden of Gethsemane dated to at least 900 years old, among oldest in world...
Olive trees of Gethsemane among oldest in world: study | Reuters: Olive trees in the Jerusalem garden revered by Christians as the place where Jesus Christ prayed before he was crucified have been dated to at least 900 years old, a study released on Friday showed.
The results of tests on trees in the Garden of Gethsemane have not settled the question of whether the gnarled trees are the very same which sheltered Jesus, where the Bible says he prayed and was later betrayed by Judas, because olive trees can grow back from roots after being cut down, researchers said.
The results of tests on trees in the Garden of Gethsemane have not settled the question of whether the gnarled trees are the very same which sheltered Jesus, where the Bible says he prayed and was later betrayed by Judas, because olive trees can grow back from roots after being cut down, researchers said.
Pope Benedict's surprise announcement of new cardinals raises three intriguing questions...
On The News : Why name new cardinals now? The Pope's mysterious announcement. - Catholic CultureLAWLER: The Pope has already elevated 22 prelates to the College of Cardinals this year, at a consistory held in February. Never before in the post-Vatican II era—in fact not since the 1920s—has a Roman Pontiff held two consistories for the elevation of new cardinals in a single calendar year.
Assuming that the Holy Father wants to stay within the limit of 120 cardinal-electors, there are only 4 openings now, with 2 more to occur (as current cardinals reach the age of 80 and lose their eligibility as electors) before the November consistory. So the Pope will be filling all the available spots. If he had waited until the end of March 2013, he could have named a dozen new voting cardinals.
Assuming that the Holy Father wants to stay within the limit of 120 cardinal-electors, there are only 4 openings now, with 2 more to occur (as current cardinals reach the age of 80 and lose their eligibility as electors) before the November consistory. So the Pope will be filling all the available spots. If he had waited until the end of March 2013, he could have named a dozen new voting cardinals.
Top 10 events from salvation history I wish I could have witnessed...
Truth & CharityMURPHY: Sure, it would be cool to watch the Big Bang – if you’re into that kind of thing – but the real treat would be to watch the formation of earth. I figure if the 6 day creationists are right, then it’s like one ginormous time-elapsed image. Everything moving so fast that the whole thing is a bit blurry as God went around solving the tohu wabohu problem. Hard not to appreciate it. Of course, there is that whole problem with the 6th day. For modesty’s sake, I’d have to look away and fast forward to the part where they have the fig leaves on.
News outlets seek unsealing of Legion of Christ docs in lawsuit...
News outlets seek unsealing of Legion of Christ docs in lawsuit :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Four news organizations are seeking the release of sealed court documents from a lawsuit contesting the will of a Rhode Island woman who gave $60 million to the Legion of Christ.
Jim Fair, Communications Director with the Legion of Christ, said the donor was “a beloved member of our spiritual family” and the religious congregation was “respectful and diligent in carrying out her wishes.”
He told CNA Oct. 24 that it is “appropriate” for the documents to stay sealed “to ensure that potential jurors are not influenced and that the Legion’s constitutional right to a fair and impartial jury is protected.”
Jim Fair, Communications Director with the Legion of Christ, said the donor was “a beloved member of our spiritual family” and the religious congregation was “respectful and diligent in carrying out her wishes.”
He told CNA Oct. 24 that it is “appropriate” for the documents to stay sealed “to ensure that potential jurors are not influenced and that the Legion’s constitutional right to a fair and impartial jury is protected.”
With no appeal and no pardon, Paolo Gabriele ordered to begin serving his sentence Thursday...
It’s back to prison for the Pope’s former butler - Vatican InsiderTORNIELLI: Fr. Federico Lombardi’s statement, published after 14:00 today, announces that Benedict XVI’s former butler - found guilty of stealing confidential documents from the papal secretariat – is to return to a cell in the Vatican Gendarmerie, in the building he came out of last 21 July after two months confinement. He should serve a one and a half year prison sentence, but since five months have gone by since his arrest, he should stay in prison for another thirteen months, unless of course the Pope grants him a pardon.
Go ahead, October. Surprise me...
Go Ahead, October.� Surprise Me. |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: In case anyone's wondering, I'm going to vote for Romney.
I think it's wrong to vote for Obama, and I think it's morally neutral but foolish to vote for a third party candidate or for no one, especially if you live in a swing state. I desperately want Obama gone, banished forever to the netherworld of a presidential library stocked entirely with his memoirs; and I think helping to elect Romney is the bet way to make that happen.� Hey, I said it wasn't a sin not to vote for Romney.� It's also not a sin to coat your hair with Vaseline and make chicken noises at high noon.
I think it's wrong to vote for Obama, and I think it's morally neutral but foolish to vote for a third party candidate or for no one, especially if you live in a swing state. I desperately want Obama gone, banished forever to the netherworld of a presidential library stocked entirely with his memoirs; and I think helping to elect Romney is the bet way to make that happen.� Hey, I said it wasn't a sin not to vote for Romney.� It's also not a sin to coat your hair with Vaseline and make chicken noises at high noon.
The myth and reality of Cardinal George's famous "I'll die in my bed" statement...
The Myth and the Reality of 'I'll Die in My Bed' |Blogs | NCRegister.comDRAKE: At long last, the Archdiocese of Chicago's Cardinal Francis George has definitively affirmed what exactly he said in relation to the much-quoted statement about him dying in his bed, and his successors dying imprisoned and martyred.
I first heard the quote used by a Catholic speaker sometime in 2010. If you're a Catholic reader or conference attendee, you've no doubt heard it as well. It's taken on rather mythic proportions...
I first heard the quote used by a Catholic speaker sometime in 2010. If you're a Catholic reader or conference attendee, you've no doubt heard it as well. It's taken on rather mythic proportions...
Four new cardinals had to keep news secret from Synod of Bishops
CNS STORY: Four new cardinals had to keep news secret from synod: Four of the six new cardinals announced by Pope Benedict XVI Oct. 24 were participating in the world Synod of Bishops at the Vatican and had to keep their impending appointments secret as they participated in the synod's small-group work that morning.
The appointment of new cardinals was not announced to synod members, so those who did not have smartphones or tablets or a friend with one found out only during the synod's lunch break.
The appointment of new cardinals was not announced to synod members, so those who did not have smartphones or tablets or a friend with one found out only during the synod's lunch break.
10 things you need to know today: October 25, 2012...
10 things you need to know today: October 25, 2012 - The Week: Obama hits Romney about Mourdock, Sandoval makes World Series history, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Bishop Richard Williamson expelled from SSPX for "refusing to show due respect and obedience to his lawful superiors"...
SSPX expels Bishop Williamson | CatholicHerald.co.uk: The Society of St Pius X has confirmed that it has expelled the English Bishop Richard Williamson.
Bishop Williamson, 72, one of four men illicitly ordained in 1988 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in Écône, Switzerland, has been a controversial figure, particularly for his views on Jews, who he has called the “enemies of Christ”.
Video: At his Wednesday general audience, the Holy Father discusses the nature of faith...
Pope's general audience: What does it mean to believe and have faith?: During Wednesday's general audience, the Pope continued his catechesis on the Year of Faith. Benedict XVI reflected on the Gospel of St. Mark by explaining what it truly means to have faith in today's modern world.�
Entire civilizations have faded from history after divorcing themselves from God. Will we be next?
The Wrong Side of History | Crisis MagazineFRANCISGEORGE: October is the month of the Most Holy Rosary, a devotion associated in modern times with the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima in 1917, during the First World War. Mary asked for prayer and penance, which she always requests in these private revelations that echo the public revelation in the Gospel: “Repent, the kingdom of God is at hand.”
Mary at Fatima also entered into the history of the modern world when she told three unlettered peasant children that the Great War then being waged, President Wilson’s “war to end all wars,” would soon end, but that a greater menace to world peace would arise in Russia, whose errors would spread throughout the world and bring untold millions to violent death. In the end, however, Mary promised that her Immaculate Heart would triumph. This promise, too, echoes the Gospel itself: the risen Christ is victorious over sin and death.
Mary at Fatima also entered into the history of the modern world when she told three unlettered peasant children that the Great War then being waged, President Wilson’s “war to end all wars,” would soon end, but that a greater menace to world peace would arise in Russia, whose errors would spread throughout the world and bring untold millions to violent death. In the end, however, Mary promised that her Immaculate Heart would triumph. This promise, too, echoes the Gospel itself: the risen Christ is victorious over sin and death.
Jimmy Akin and Simcha Fisher and me on Halloween...
Jimmy and Simcha and Me on HalloweenSHEA: Next time somebody tells you that Christianity is nothing but warmed over paganism, ask them about the huge central Christian feasts we will all be celebrating at the Summer Solstice and Autumn Equinox. Also, ask them why the biggest feast of all falls, not on the Spring Equinox, but whenever Passover happens to fall. Why, it’s almost as though Christianity is what it always understood itself to be: the fulfilment of a specifically Jewish revelation and only incidently and accidently related to the myths, feasts and legends of paganism. That might even have something to do with why the New Testament evinces essentially no interest in pagan culture beyond a couple of random quotes from Epimenides and Aratus but is intensely interested in Jewish scripture and tradition.
The greatest bloggers of the past 2000 years...
The Theology of Dad: History's Greatest BloggersKERR: A woman who is impressing me to death, one of the teachers of Maryvale Academy, Mrs. Heather Bradley, handed me a little essay of Chesterton a few minutes ago. She thought I would like to see what her 7/8 Lit. class would be studying this morning. Little does this woman know that when Chesterton comes into play my immediate reaction is always, "Good grief! Here we go with Chesterton again!"
A Google Maps tour of Ferris Bueller’s Chicago...
Ferris Bueller’s Chicago — Google Sightseeing: In 1986, Matthew Broderick starred as Ferris Bueller in the now classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and inspired a whole generation of kids to aim so much higher when taking an “unscheduled day-off”. Today we’re going on a tour of the some of the key locations from the movie.
Miraculous revival of lifeless newborn attributed to intercession of Ven. Fulton Sheen...
Story of possible miracle for Venerable Sheen: James Fulton Engstrom and his family were among more than 1,200 people attending the Mass of Thanksgiving in September at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Peoria, Ill., which celebrated that in June, the Church declared Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen “venerable.”�
James, 2, is too young to understand that his life — and his near death at birth — may play a role in advancing the cause for Archbishop Sheen’s canonization.
James, 2, is too young to understand that his life — and his near death at birth — may play a role in advancing the cause for Archbishop Sheen’s canonization.
10 reasons why Obama's second term would be worse than his first...
10 Reasons Why Obama’s Next 4 Years Would Be Worse Than the Past 4 Years | CatholicVote.orgTHOMASPETERS: It’s exactly two weeks until America decides whether to give Barack Obama four more years or to elect a new president, Mitt Romney.
The presidential debates have concluded. Early voting has already begun in many states. America is deciding right now who will be the next President.
The latest poll shows a slim majority of Catholics now support Mitt Romney (49%-47%). Four years ago around this time I wrote blog post after blog post predicting what would happen if we elected Barack Obama over John McCain. I believe my predictions have largely come true.
The presidential debates have concluded. Early voting has already begun in many states. America is deciding right now who will be the next President.
The latest poll shows a slim majority of Catholics now support Mitt Romney (49%-47%). Four years ago around this time I wrote blog post after blog post predicting what would happen if we elected Barack Obama over John McCain. I believe my predictions have largely come true.
Here's a look at how Catholics have voted in past presidential elections...
History of the Catholic VoteCRAUGHWELL: In a few days, the 2012 presidential election will be history. Your favorite television stations will not be clogged with campaign attack ads. Your phone will no longer be ringing with political robo-calls. The talking heads will move on to talk about something else. Your Facebook friends will stop lobbying for their candidate. Don’t pretend you won’t be relieved.�
In 1968, Mitt Romney was in a crash that put him into a coma. The driver of the other car? A (possibly drunken) Catholic priest...
Mitt Romney: The Sodium Pentothal Question: Flash back to France, 1968, while Romney is doing his foreign mission. Romney is driving a vehicle with five other Mormons, including the mission president and the president’s wife up front. Around a sharp corner comes a car in the wrong lane and — bam! — hits the Mormons head on.
The crash breaks a few of Romney’s bones and puts him in a coma. It badly damages the mission president and it kills his wife “Sister” Leola Anderson — who had been a sort of surrogate mother for the 170-plus young Mormon missionaries very far from home.
The crash breaks a few of Romney’s bones and puts him in a coma. It badly damages the mission president and it kills his wife “Sister” Leola Anderson — who had been a sort of surrogate mother for the 170-plus young Mormon missionaries very far from home.
Video: Archbishop Chaput says "Catholic identity takes precedence" over party and country...
Archbishop Chaput on the politics of abortion - YouTube: Archbishop Charles J. Chaput of Philadelphia discusses the politics of abortion and its relevance to Catholic voters.
The most important building isn't even on the tour...
The Most Important Building isn’t even on the Tour! | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I live in Washington DC on East Capitol Street. If you picture the United States Capitol in your mind, one side faces the long grassy Mall where so many large gatherings and protests take place. Behind the Capitol, on the exact opposite side is a long street that stretches through the Capitol Hill Neighborhood called “East Capitol Street.” My parish is just 14 blocks up on the right. It is a “merged” Parish of St. Cyprian (building lost in 1966) and Holy Comforter (a title of the Holy Spirit).
Do angels and demons experience time like we do?
Do demons experience time? | Roman Catholic Spiritual Direction: As pure spirits, angels and demons exist outside of earthly, material time.� However, they do experience a type of “spiritual” time—“a before and an after” to their acts of understanding and will. Whenever we speak of “before” and “after,” we are speaking of some sort of time. This time is called aeveternal (from the Latin aevum), a succession of acts of understanding and will in a spiritual being. (St. Thomas Aquinas in the thirteenth century speaks about aevum in the Summa Theologica, I, 10, 5.)
Therefore, when we say that the spirits in heaven and hell are in “eternity,” we need to understand this as an unending temporal succession (i.e., the passing of time without end) from a distinct beginning (i.e., the moment of their creation). Strictly speaking, only God is eternal; only He has “no time.” God experiences past, present, and future as eternally present.
Therefore, when we say that the spirits in heaven and hell are in “eternity,” we need to understand this as an unending temporal succession (i.e., the passing of time without end) from a distinct beginning (i.e., the moment of their creation). Strictly speaking, only God is eternal; only He has “no time.” God experiences past, present, and future as eternally present.
Jose Raul Gonzalez, alleged son of Legion of Christ founder Maciel, jailed for extortion...
Son of Legion of Christ founder Maciel jailed on extortion charge in Mexico - The Washington Post: A Mexico state judicial official said Tuesday the alleged son of the late Rev. Marcial Maciel, founder of the Catholic order Legion of Christ, is in custody on attempted extortion charges.
The official said Jose Raul Gonzalez Lara had been detained but could post a $3,700 bail. She spoke on condition of anonymity because she was not authorized to speak to the press.
The official said Jose Raul Gonzalez Lara had been detained but could post a $3,700 bail. She spoke on condition of anonymity because she was not authorized to speak to the press.
What Pope John XXIII privately told a friend about Vatican II...
The Council in the Intimate Thoughts of Pope John XXIIIMAGISTER: The documentation on Vatican Council II was enriched a few days ago with a new text never published before. And of noteworthy value.
It is made up of certain portions of the diary of Cardinal Roberto Tucci (in the photo), at the time the director of "La Civiltà Cattolica."
And it was precisely this magazine of the Jesuits of Rome – on the basis of these diary entries – that opened its latest issue with the account of the five conversations that Tucci had with Pope John XXIII between 1959 and 1962, or the announcement and beginning of Vatican II.
It is made up of certain portions of the diary of Cardinal Roberto Tucci (in the photo), at the time the director of "La Civiltà Cattolica."
And it was precisely this magazine of the Jesuits of Rome – on the basis of these diary entries – that opened its latest issue with the account of the five conversations that Tucci had with Pope John XXIII between 1959 and 1962, or the announcement and beginning of Vatican II.
What kind of America do you want to live in? The choices are stark...
Campaign 2012: What Kind of Country Do You Want? | First ThingsWEIGEL: In his speech to the Democratic National Convention, nominating President Obama for a second term, former president Bill Clinton said that the choice before America was a stark one: “What kind of country do you want to live in?” That’s exactly right.
Do you want to live in an America with a robust array of legally protected civil society institutions, supported by volunteerism and charitable giving? Or do you want to live in an America in which the government occupies more and more of the public square, squeezing to the margins of our common life the voluntary associations that have long enriched our democracy?
Do you want to live in an America with a robust array of legally protected civil society institutions, supported by volunteerism and charitable giving? Or do you want to live in an America in which the government occupies more and more of the public square, squeezing to the margins of our common life the voluntary associations that have long enriched our democracy?
The 7 prayers every Catholic should know in Latin...
The 7 Prayers Every Catholic Should Know in Latin | St. Peter's List: In 1978 Bl. Pope John Paul II said, “We exhort you all to lift up high the torch of Latin which is even today a bond of unity among peoples of all nations.” Even Vatican II and Pope John XXIII lauded Latin and asked that it remain the universal language of the Church; however, today the Roman Church has turned its back on Latin and blamed it on the ever-shifting spectre or “spirit” of Vatican II. SPL collected 14 quotes on the importance of Latin in the Church and drew many from the actual Vatican II documents and from post-Vatican II popes. Continuing in this proper understanding of Sacred Tradition, it is only fitting that the listers have a list to help them develop their use of Latin.
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