The Poet and the Admiral | Catholic AnswersKEATING: Yesterday I wrote about seredipitously recovering one of my favorite books, Louis Chaigne's biography of ambassador and poet Paul Claudel (1868-1955). Let me give you a bare outline of Claudel's diplomatic career.
He served in the French diplomatic corps from 1893 to 1936. In the first year he was vice-consul in New York and then in Boston. He then served in various capacities in China for fourteen years—later still in Prague, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Rio de Janeiro, and Copenhagen. Then he served as ambassador to Japan from 1922 to 1928, followed by being ambassador to the U.S. from 1928-1933. He ended his diplomatic career with a three-year stint in Brussels.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Want your heart to soar? Watch this Oscar-nominated Disney short
Happy Catholic*: Want Your Heart to Soar? Watch This.DAVIS: Introducing a groundbreaking technique that seamlessly merges computer-generated and hand-drawn animation techniques, first-time director John Kahrs takes the art of animation in a bold new direction with the Oscar-nominated short, "Paperman." Created by a small, innovative team working at Walt Disney Animation Studios, "Paperman" pushes the animation medium in an exciting new direction.
How my kids and I nearly died after the March for Life
How My Kids and I Nearly Died After the March for Life |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: I took the children down to the March for Life this year and it was a great experience. It's too bad we all nearly died.
And by nearly I don't mean kinda' close. I mean we were in a really bad situation where really really bad things seemed at least as likely as anything neutral occurring.
The snow fell in Washington D.C. right near the end of the march. Honestly, the weather wasn't too bad. But I think that D.C., Maryland, and Delaware were so ready for it they started dumping beaches of sand everywhere.
And by nearly I don't mean kinda' close. I mean we were in a really bad situation where really really bad things seemed at least as likely as anything neutral occurring.
The snow fell in Washington D.C. right near the end of the march. Honestly, the weather wasn't too bad. But I think that D.C., Maryland, and Delaware were so ready for it they started dumping beaches of sand everywhere.
Canadian lawmakers call on Mounties to investigate 491 cases of suspected infanticide; Conservative PM Harper defends practice
‘Abortion is legal in Canada’: Harper gvmt opposes infanticide investigation in 491 babies case | LifeSiteNews.com: Stephen Harper’s Conservative government is opposing a call by three MPs for the RCMP to investigate StatsCan data that reported that 491 babies were left to die after they were born alive following failed abortions.
Responding in the House of Commons Thursday to questions on the pro-life MPs’ open letter, Harper insisted simply that “abortion is legal in Canada.”
Responding in the House of Commons Thursday to questions on the pro-life MPs’ open letter, Harper insisted simply that “abortion is legal in Canada.”
What it means to read the Bible literally
The Senses of Scripture |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Periodically, folks ask about whether we are supposed to read the Bible literally.
The Church does require a literal interpretation of biblical texts.� But that does not mean what most Americans imagine it means.� It does not mean we have to believe, for instance, that the universe was made in six 24 hour days, or profess faith in talking snakes.� Rather, by the "literal sense", the Church means we must read the text looking for what the author intended to say, the *way* he intended to say it, and distinguish from that what is incidental to what he was saying.� That’s the literal interpretation.� And getting at it is trickier than we might suppose, since the inspired authors were not, in fact, 3000 years stupider than us, but were endowed with brains and a genetic complement identical to ours and an *extremely* subtle and sophisticated manner of communicating theological and spiritual truths and a complex symbol system that we often misunderstand.
The Church does require a literal interpretation of biblical texts.� But that does not mean what most Americans imagine it means.� It does not mean we have to believe, for instance, that the universe was made in six 24 hour days, or profess faith in talking snakes.� Rather, by the "literal sense", the Church means we must read the text looking for what the author intended to say, the *way* he intended to say it, and distinguish from that what is incidental to what he was saying.� That’s the literal interpretation.� And getting at it is trickier than we might suppose, since the inspired authors were not, in fact, 3000 years stupider than us, but were endowed with brains and a genetic complement identical to ours and an *extremely* subtle and sophisticated manner of communicating theological and spiritual truths and a complex symbol system that we often misunderstand.
10 things you need to know today: January 31, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 31, 2013 - The Week: Newtown residents want stricter gun control, 30 Rock comes to a close, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
An historic interview with Saint John Bosco
Da Mihi Animas: An Interview with Saint John BoscoLEAKE: A unique event marks the year 1884 in the life of Don Bosco. He gives his first and only press interview to a French journalist writing for the Journal de Rome. An excerpt of this historic event is reproduced below...
The feast of St. John Bosco is celebrated by Catholics and Anglicans alike
Saint John Bosco | Liturgy: Don Bosco was a priest in nineteenth century northern Italy. He was imaginative in the way that he gathered people for God and worked to improve their lot. He had a special focus on young people. He was ahead of his time in focusing on love rather than punishment in formation and education of the young.
He gathered others around him who shared his vision. Central to that was the development of a religious order, the “Salesians”, one of the largest if not the largest religious order in the world. As well as education and formation of young people they work in publishing and communication.
He gathered others around him who shared his vision. Central to that was the development of a religious order, the “Salesians”, one of the largest if not the largest religious order in the world. As well as education and formation of young people they work in publishing and communication.
Diplomatic agreement between the Holy See and Palestine heading toward a "speedy" conclusion
VATICAN - PALESTINE Agreement between Vatican and Palestine heading toward “speedy” conclusion - Asia News: Hopes for a "speedy conclusion" of negotiations between the Holy See and the "State of Palestine" and to this end, the creation of "a special technical group" are the highlights of a joint statement issued after the meeting of the official delegations, yesterday, January 30, in Ramallah.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Getting back to basics with the four pillars of Christian life
The Four Pillars of the Christian Life | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I and twelve other pastors, have been meeting recently to embark on a period and plan for renewal in our parishes. which focuses back on the fundamental mission of the Church, and of our parishes, and which seeks to restore a kind of back to basics approach to Church life.
For too often many parishes are reduced from being lighthouses to clubhouses; from being thermostats which set the temperature of culture, to thermometers that merely record the temperature; from being places where Christ is central, and it is his wedding,� to being places where Christ is merely an invited guest at our wedding feast.
For too often many parishes are reduced from being lighthouses to clubhouses; from being thermostats which set the temperature of culture, to thermometers that merely record the temperature; from being places where Christ is central, and it is his wedding,� to being places where Christ is merely an invited guest at our wedding feast.
The readings for this Sunday show both Jesus and Jeremiah facing opposition for telling the truth
The Sacred Page: Why Do People Hate a "Good Person"? The 4th Sunday in Ordinary TimeBERGSMA: To seek the good means to oppose injustice.� The “good person” cannot stand by silently while others are abused.� Yet there are many in society who profit from the abuse of others—for example, the executives of Planned Parenthood, who profit from the killing unborn children, and make generous contributions to the Democratic Party, setting up a dynamic of monetary profit and political power.� So certain individuals come to have a vested interest in the perpetuation of injustice.� Other obvious examples would be the institution of slavery both in America and elsewhere, and the current worldwide (and immensely profitable) scourge of human sex trafficking.�
This may be the classiest Homecoming Court in the United States
Tennessee Homecoming King Nominees Give Crown to Another Teen - Yahoo!: Three Tennessee homecoming king nominees made a unanimous and touching decision that no matter who won, they would give the crown to a beloved student with a genetic condition.
Students Jesse Cooper, Drew Gibbs and Zeke Grissom were all nominated for homecoming king at Community High School's basketball homecoming ceremony.
Students Jesse Cooper, Drew Gibbs and Zeke Grissom were all nominated for homecoming king at Community High School's basketball homecoming ceremony.
The amazing adventures of a Romanian-born New England Patriot
The Amazing Adventures of a Romanian-Born New England Patriot | Daily News | NCRegister.comBEATTIE: Even though his favored New England Patriots lost to the Baltimore Ravens in the recent AFC Championship Game, Zoltan Mesko is not letting that get him down. The three-year pro has faced much tougher situations, starting in his home country of Romania.
Economic hardships were a way of life under communist rule, despite the fact that both of Mesko’s parents were engineers with good jobs. The family had money, but it couldn’t buy them much in an economy with oppressive regulations. Then there were days when the family narrowly escaped a violent death. During the 1989 revolution, the toddler Mesko and his parents evaded gunfire that careened through their apartment.
Economic hardships were a way of life under communist rule, despite the fact that both of Mesko’s parents were engineers with good jobs. The family had money, but it couldn’t buy them much in an economy with oppressive regulations. Then there were days when the family narrowly escaped a violent death. During the 1989 revolution, the toddler Mesko and his parents evaded gunfire that careened through their apartment.
What would happen if you tried to fly a Cessna above different Solar System bodies?
Interplanetary Cessna: In most cases, there’s no atmosphere, and the plane falls straight to the ground. (If it’s dropped from one kilometer, in a few cases, the crash will be slow enough that the pilot may survive—although the life-support equipment probably won’t.)
There are nine Solar System bodies with atmospheres thick enough to matter: Earth—obviously—Mars, Venus, the four gas giants, Saturn’s moon Titan, and the Sun. Let’s take a closer look at what would happen to a plane on each one.
There are nine Solar System bodies with atmospheres thick enough to matter: Earth—obviously—Mars, Venus, the four gas giants, Saturn’s moon Titan, and the Sun. Let’s take a closer look at what would happen to a plane on each one.
An interview with Cardinal Dolan, on the Church and new media
(Audio) Interview with Cardinal Timothy Dolan – On the Church and New Media | BrandonVogt.comVOGT: Today's interview is a little unusual. First, it took place about a year ago, so I've waited awhile to post it. Second, I was actually the person being interviewed. Nevertheless, since it was such a great conversation with one of the Church's most fascinating leaders, I thought I'd share it here.
Back in November 2011, I had the pleasure of chatting with Cardinal Timothy Dolan. He invited me onto his weekly radio show, then called "A Conversation with the Archbishop and now called "Conversation with Cardinal Dolan", and along with co-host Fr. Dave Dwyer we had a blast. Cardinal Dolan was just as warm, funny, and gracious as he comes across in his preaching and writing.
Back in November 2011, I had the pleasure of chatting with Cardinal Timothy Dolan. He invited me onto his weekly radio show, then called "A Conversation with the Archbishop and now called "Conversation with Cardinal Dolan", and along with co-host Fr. Dave Dwyer we had a blast. Cardinal Dolan was just as warm, funny, and gracious as he comes across in his preaching and writing.
How would St. John Bosco handle a narcissistic child?
How Would St. John Bosco Teach the Narcissistic Child? | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: Imagine for a moment that you’re a Catholic school teacher and you suddenly realize that all of your students have a very high value of themselves. And, upon realizing this fascinating phenomenon you also realize that the majority of yours students do not associate this high value with the image the carry as children of God. Gasp! For those of us who have had the pleasure of studying and applying the educational system of St. John Bosco (Preventive System), this sudden realization may not sound so daunting.
A Catholic homeschool family's agonizing trail leads to a "million-dollar baby"
Family’s agonizing trail leads to infant’s rare surgery at Children’s Hospital - Lifestyle - The Boston Globe: Mary Gundrum, 20 weeks pregnant, was excited when an ultrasound revealed that she was going to have a baby boy. Then she looked closer and said, “What’s that in front of his face?”
“That,” the doctor replied somberly, “is a problem.”
The news was grim. The fetus had an encephalocele, a rare disorder in which part of the brain was exposed, covered in skin, outside the head. In this case, the brain was growing down into the roof of the mouth and protruding onto the face.
“That,” the doctor replied somberly, “is a problem.”
The news was grim. The fetus had an encephalocele, a rare disorder in which part of the brain was exposed, covered in skin, outside the head. In this case, the brain was growing down into the roof of the mouth and protruding onto the face.
Many U.S. bishops say they’re willing to ‘go to jail’ over HHS mandate
Exclusive: U.S. bishops say they’re willing to ‘go to jail’ over HHS mandate | LifeSiteNews.com: As the Obama administration and the U.S. Bishops remain locked in battle over the HHS mandate, the question on the minds of many observers is: what lengths are the bishops willing to go to to oppose the mandate?
The prelates LifeSiteNews spoke to after the Vigil Mass for Life in Washington, D.C. on January 24th indicated that they intend to do everything they can to oppose the mandate, including risking imprisonment if necessary.
The prelates LifeSiteNews spoke to after the Vigil Mass for Life in Washington, D.C. on January 24th indicated that they intend to do everything they can to oppose the mandate, including risking imprisonment if necessary.
Reporters who watch abortions tell of their brutal reality
Reporters Who Watch Abortions Tell of Their Brutal Reality | LifeNews.com: Sometimes authors of magazines are allowed to witness abortions in the course of writing articles. Sometimes medical students who never had an opinion on abortion come to grips with the procedure after viewing one. People who observe abortion procedures or abortion remains usually come away with little doubt that abortion is killing a human being.
SSPX priests have no faculties to hear confessions. They can't absolve you. Do not fool around with this...
QUAERITUR: Confession to an SSPX priest a sin? | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?ZUHLSDORF: The Church’s law says clearly that if a priest lacks the faculties from proper authority to receive sacramental confessions, and therefore absolve sins, then the absolution is invalid. The priest must have faculties from the Church to absolve validly. From this we see that priests must have permission of the Church to absolve sins. The Church, by the way, gets to determine how the sacraments are administered. The SSPX does not get to decide how sacraments are administered.
In Portland, a Cardinal Bernardin protege hands off to an energetic champion of the "reform of the reform"
Whispers in the Loggia: Go West, Young Man – For Portland, @Pontifex Engineers @ArchbishopSamplePALMO: At Roman Noon on Tuesday, the Pope named Bishop Alexander Sample of Marquette as the 11th archbishop of Portland in Oregon – the oldest metropolitan seat on the Pacific coast – succeeding Archbishop John Vlazny, who reached the retirement age of 75 in February 2012.
With his move to the "Rose City," the media-savvy @BishopSample, who turned 52 in November, leaves the home-church for which he was ordained a priest in 1990 to become the nation's youngest archbishop, besting San Antonio's Gustavo GarcÃa-Siller MSpS by a full four years. For purposes of context, the last Stateside metropolitan to be named this young was a certain Timothy Michael Dolan on his appointment to Milwaukee in 2002; before then, the prior preceding instance of a 52 year-old US archbishop came five years earlier, when Charles Chaput OFM Cap. was transferred from Rapid City to Denver.
With his move to the "Rose City," the media-savvy @BishopSample, who turned 52 in November, leaves the home-church for which he was ordained a priest in 1990 to become the nation's youngest archbishop, besting San Antonio's Gustavo GarcÃa-Siller MSpS by a full four years. For purposes of context, the last Stateside metropolitan to be named this young was a certain Timothy Michael Dolan on his appointment to Milwaukee in 2002; before then, the prior preceding instance of a 52 year-old US archbishop came five years earlier, when Charles Chaput OFM Cap. was transferred from Rapid City to Denver.
Attention homeschoolers: Google Science Fair is looking for the next generation of scientists and engineers
Google Science Fair: Looking for the next generation of scientists and engineers to change the world | Official Google Blog: At age 16, Louis Braille invented an alphabet for the blind. When she was 13, Ada Lovelace became fascinated with math and went on to write the first computer program. And at 18, Alexander Graham Bell started experimenting with sound and went on to invent the telephone. Throughout history many great scientists developed their curiosity for science at an early age and went on to make groundbreaking discoveries that changed the way we live.
What's actually happening at the Presentation of the Lord?
What's happening at the Presentation of the Lord? |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Later this week the Church celebrates the Presentation of the Lord.
It's a feast that happens every year on February 2nd.
We read about the presentation of the Lord in Luke 2, but the text can be a little mysterious.
What is actually happening there?
Some claim that Luke himself didn't know. That seems unlikely to me...
It's a feast that happens every year on February 2nd.
We read about the presentation of the Lord in Luke 2, but the text can be a little mysterious.
What is actually happening there?
Some claim that Luke himself didn't know. That seems unlikely to me...
Fascinating article: For 40 years, this Russian family was cut off from all human contact, unaware of World War II
For 40 Years, This Russian Family Was Cut Off From All Human Contact, Unaware of World War II | History & Archaeology | Smithsonian Magazine: Siberian summers do not last long. The snows linger into May, and the cold weather returns again during September, freezing the taiga into a still life awesome in its desolation: endless miles of straggly pine and birch forests scattered with sleeping bears and hungry wolves; steep-sided mountains; white-water rivers that pour in torrents through the valleys; a hundred thousand icy bogs. This forest is the last and greatest of Earth's wildernesses. It stretches from the furthest tip of Russia's arctic regions as far south as Mongolia, and east from the Urals to the Pacific: five million square miles of nothingness, with a population, outside a handful of towns, that amounts to only a few thousand people.
A priest caught in an embarrassing 911 call. A woman caught in adultery. You have something in common with these people...
Fr. Robert Barron's Word On Fire - Spirituality: When a Priest FallsFERENCE: Recently a Catholic news outlet reported a story that has left me unsettled. A Catholic priest – who from his picture doesn’t look too much older than me – made a call to 911 to ask for assistance. He was stuck in a pair of handcuffs at the rectory. When the police arrived on the scene they found the pastor not only in handcuffs, but dressed in an orange prison outfit and wearing a leather bondage mask. The police officers set the priest free, and the priest wisely met with his bishop and asked to take a leave of absence, which was granted. The incident happened in late November. In early January the story hit the press. It’s a sad story, indeed.
Holy Father's Wednesday audience: "The Cross shows us how God our Father is almighty”
Vatican Radio - Audience: What it means to call God "Father": Speaking to a packed Paul VI audience hall, Pope Benedict reflected that it is not always easy today to talk about fatherhood. Especially in the West, where broken families, increasing work commitments, the concerns of trying to balance the family budget as well as the distracting invasion of the mass media in daily life can prevent a peaceful and constructive relationship between fathers and children”.
10 things you need to know today: January 30, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 30, 2013 - The Week: Kerry sails to confirmation, South Korea sends a satellite into orbit, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
5 (secular) reasons not to live together before marriage
5 (Secular) Reasons Not to Live Together Before Marriage |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: One interesting aspect of undergoing a dramatic conversion as an adult is that it's given me the opportunity to be deeply immersed in two rather different cultures. Up until my mid-20s, I was very much a part of post-Christian secular culture. Then my husband and I changed our religious beliefs, and though we're still in touch with many of our old friends, we've increasingly found ourselves in social circles where most people are religious.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
The marriage debate pits self-assertion against self-evident truths
GEORGE WEIGEL COLUMNWEIGEL: Cardinal Francis George of Chicago is, arguably, the most intellectually accomplished bishop in the history of the American episcopate. Earlier this year, when the Illinois Legislature began to consider changing state law to “accommodate those of the same sex who wish to ‘marry’ one another” (as the cardinal put it), Professor Dr. George gave the readers of his column in the Chicago archdiocesan newspaper a lesson in metaphysics—and, I suspect, a high-voltage intellectual jolt...
Some thoughts on a misleading and uninformative poll
Misleading and Uniformative: Some Thoughts on a Recent Abortion Poll | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I like many of you heard of a recent Pew Research Center survey on Abortion (released just before the March for Life) that presents discouraging results. The very title of their release was trumpeted by secular Media: Most Oppose Overturning Abortion Decision. That was the lead and really the only thing the secular media wanted to hear.
The Boy Scouts may prove Neuhaus’ Law: Where orthodoxy is optional, orthodoxy is endangered
The Boy Scouts and Neuhaus’ Law � First Thoughts | A First Things BlogFRANCK: The joyful anticipation of a fresh conquest is palpable on the front page of today’s New York Times: “In a Quick Shift, Scouts Rethink a Ban on Gays.”�That’s right, at its national executive board meeting next week, the Boy Scouts of America will consider eliminating its present policy of treating the Scouts’ requirement to be “morally straight” as barring openly homosexual boys and men from membership or leadership in the organization.�The pressure of the LGBTQA (add a fresh letter at your own discretion) lobby, which has gotten to many corporate supporters of the Scouts, is on the brink of succeeding in altering the moral character of another venerable private institution.
Colleen Carroll Campbell selected to anchor EWTN's new daily news program
STL writer lands anchor job at Catholic network : Stltoday: Say so long soon to Colleen Carroll Campbell, former Post-Dispatch staffer, who is moving to Washington to anchor a daily program on EWTN. Campbell will be moving from Kirkwood for the new assignment. The show — logically labeled "EWTN Daily News with Colleen Carol Campbell" — is slated to debut June 3. "We're hoping the show will be a serious player on the international as well as national media scene," she said.
For 23 years, a Montana priest and nine old high school buddies have been involved in the most epic game of Tag ever
It Takes Planning, Caution to Avoid Being 'It' - WSJ.com: Earlier this month, Brian Dennehy started a new job as chief marketing officer of Nordstrom Inc. In his first week, he pulled aside a colleague to ask a question: How hard it is for a nonemployee to enter the building? Mr. Dennehy doesn't have a particular interest in corporate security. He just doesn't want to be "It." Mr. Dennehy and nine of his friends have spent the past 23 years locked in a game of "Tag."
Remembering Ralph McInerny on the third anniversary of his death
Remembering Ralph McInerny | Crisis MagazineKACZOR: My office holds many treasured keepsakes—a wedding photo, my children’s baptismal candles, and a fiftieth anniversary picture of my parents.� In sight of where I write is also a picture of a young man and an old man, a joyful 26-year-old wearing doctoral robes for the first time and a man of about 70 clad in the distinctive Laval fur trimmed doctoral regalia looking drawn and ashen.� A few weeks before Ralph McInerny had triple bypass surgery, but he made the extra effort to attend the graduation in order to hood his future successor at Notre Dame as Director of the Maritain Center John O’Callaghan and myself.� I keep this picture in full view to remind me of the kind of person I aspire to be, to remind me of what a full life can be.
Jane Austen composed prayers, read sermons for pleasure, and recited the Lord's Prayer 30,000 times in her life
Austen’s Anglicanism � Peter Leithart | A First Things BlogLEITHART: Austen’s orthodox Anglicanism is beyond doubt. Daughter of an earnest Anglican minister, she grew up with morning and evening prayers, which means that she recited the Lord’s Prayer, by White’s estimate, some 30,000 times in her life. She read sermons for pleasure and composed three extant prayers. Her expressed views on moral issues, death, nature, and the established church were fully in keeping with the Anglicanism of her time.
Cardinal Rai, the Maronite patriarch, has been chosen to compose meditations for this year's Way of the Cross
Maronite patriarch will compose text for Way of the CrossKANDRA: I had the privilege of meeting Cardinal Rai in 2011, when he stopped by our office in New York to meet the press. Cardinal Rai also figured prominently in the pope’s recent trip to Lebanon. I have no doubt his reflections of the road to Calvary will reflect, too, the struggles and sufferings of the Christians in the Middle East. It’s a great gesture of solidarity by the Pope—and further affirmation of the esteem he feels for our Eastern tradition.
12 vintage instructional films worth watching
12 Vintage Instructional Films Worth Watching | The Art of Manliness: Maybe you’ve seen the classic Civil Defense film “Duck and Cover” as part of a documentary about the postwar period, a clip of an unintentionally hilarious hygiene film while watching Mystery Science Theater 3000, or a vintage film we ourselves included in a post like this one.
Have you ever wondered where these short instructional films from the 50s and 60s came from?
After World War II, filmmakers pitched a new kind of movie to schools. Films that had formerly been used in classrooms were dull and static – dry lecture dubbed over still shots and documentary-style footage and images. Progressive educators believed that films with more drama, emotion, action, and personality could better capture students’ interest, aiding the learning process and shaping their behavior. The idea took off, and from 1945 until they petered out in the 70s, new studios that were dedicated to the purpose churned out tens of thousands of low budget instructional films that were watched by millions of schoolchildren. Titles ranged from Insects Are Interesting to Learning About Your Nose.
Have you ever wondered where these short instructional films from the 50s and 60s came from?
After World War II, filmmakers pitched a new kind of movie to schools. Films that had formerly been used in classrooms were dull and static – dry lecture dubbed over still shots and documentary-style footage and images. Progressive educators believed that films with more drama, emotion, action, and personality could better capture students’ interest, aiding the learning process and shaping their behavior. The idea took off, and from 1945 until they petered out in the 70s, new studios that were dedicated to the purpose churned out tens of thousands of low budget instructional films that were watched by millions of schoolchildren. Titles ranged from Insects Are Interesting to Learning About Your Nose.
Stupid press, stupid people: Non-reporting the March for Life
Stupid Press, Stupid People: Non-Reporting the March for Life | Crisis MagazineESOLEN: When George Orwell wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four, the novel describing a dystopia of mass stupidity and surveillance, he wasn’t making a prediction.� He was describing what he actually saw in England.� His protagonist, Winston Smith, works at the Ministry of Truth, whose enterprise is to engage in massive lying, altering history by sending documents down the Memory Hole, where they will be lost forever.� One of his colleagues, Syme, is a linguist with a passionate love for Newspeak, the official language of the regime.� The purpose of Newspeak is to deracinate language so badly that crimethought, the doubleplusungood rebellion of mind against the regime, will be impossible.� No one will be able to think of crimes, because nobody will be able to think.
How do we respond to "so what?"
How Do We Respond to ‘So What?’ | First ThingsSCALIA: Flannery O’ Connor told a friend, “I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say,” and it is the same for me. Last week saw me bed-bound, dealing with a bug that left me more addle-brained than usual, and in perusing my phone and tablet, I kept coming across the most interesting stories to ponder on my bed. Unable to sit up and write, though, I could not know what I thought.
"For many" trumps "for all" in the Eucharistic prayer, but some priests are still resisting
"For Many" Defeats "For All." But Some Are Not Giving UpMAGISTER: As the Vatican “recognitio” of the new Italian version of the Roman missal is nearing its conclusion, the dispute over the translation of “pro multis" in the formula of the Eucharistic consecration has seen new developments.
The latest comes from the theologian and bishop Bruno Forte.
In an article in “Avvenire" on January 19, 2013, Forte once again sided decisively with translating “pro multis" as "per molti" (for many), instead of as “per tutti" (for all), as has been done for more than forty years in Italy and is similarly done in many other countries.
“For many" is the translation that Benedict XVI himself is demanding be adopted in the various languages, as he explained in a letter to the German bishops in April of 2012.
For some time, in effect, the translation “for many” has been returning to use in various languages and countries, at the prodding of the Vatican authorities and the pope himself.
The latest comes from the theologian and bishop Bruno Forte.
In an article in “Avvenire" on January 19, 2013, Forte once again sided decisively with translating “pro multis" as "per molti" (for many), instead of as “per tutti" (for all), as has been done for more than forty years in Italy and is similarly done in many other countries.
“For many" is the translation that Benedict XVI himself is demanding be adopted in the various languages, as he explained in a letter to the German bishops in April of 2012.
For some time, in effect, the translation “for many” has been returning to use in various languages and countries, at the prodding of the Vatican authorities and the pope himself.
10 things you need to know today: January 29, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 29, 2013 - The Week: Obama to discuss immigration reform, four arrested over deadly Brazilian fire, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Pope appoints Marquette's Bishop Alexander Sample as Archbishop of Portland, Oregon
New Archbishop of Portland: Alexander Sample! | Fr. Z's Blog – What Does The Prayer Really Say?: Today, the Holy Father appointed Bishop Alexander King Sample as archbishop of the archdiocese of Portland (area 76,937, population 3,296,705, Catholics 412,725, priests 300, permanent deacons 72, religious 653), Oregon, USA. Bishop Sample, previously bishop of Marquette, Michigan, USA, was born in Kalispell, Montana, USA, in 1960, was ordained to the priesthood in 1990, and received episcopal ordination in 2006. In the national bishops’ conference he currently serves on the Subcommittees on Native American Catholics and on the Catechism. He is also vice-postulator for the cause for canonisation of Venerable Frederic Baraga, first bishop of the Diocese of Marquette. He succeeds Archbishop John George Vlazny, whose resignation from the pastoral care of the same archdiocese the Holy Father accepted, upon having reached the age limit.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Fr. Terence Henry, president of Franciscan University of Steubenville, to step down in May
Franciscan University President to Step Down at End of Academic Year � Campus NotesDRAKE: Franciscan University of Steubenville announced today that Father Terence Henry, TOR, will leave the office of president at the end of the academic year in May.
“Being president of Franciscan University for a single day would have been a huge honor and one of the most memorable moments in my life, but to have been entrusted with guiding its mission since 2000 is an awesome privilege and blessing for which I am thankful to God,” said Father Henry.
“Being president of Franciscan University for a single day would have been a huge honor and one of the most memorable moments in my life, but to have been entrusted with guiding its mission since 2000 is an awesome privilege and blessing for which I am thankful to God,” said Father Henry.
Whether St. Thomas is boring?
Whether St. Thomas is Boring? | Dominicana Blog: I answer that, A thing may be called boring in two ways: in itself (per se) or accidentally (per accidens) on account of some accompanying factor. Thomas, considered in himself, is not boring. A man is only called boring who tries one’s patience excessively and to no great purpose. However, the works of Thomas are ordered towards producing knowledge and wisdom in the reader concerning the greatest realities, namely God and the things of God. As the Philosopher observes in the De Animalibus XI, the least knowledge of the highest realities produces the greatest joy. Whatever produces joy cannot fail to excite.
"The Catholic Church is either the most important part of my life, or the biggest waste of time"
Lighthouse Women's Center and Paula Suhr Bring Hope to Denver Women, Unborn Children: The gift of faith that came over from Europe to America with Paula’s family of the past led to that one moment in her life, in college, where a decision had to be made. During the business of exams and papers, Paula stood in her dorm room and asked, ‘either this Catholic faith is the biggest waste of time in my life, or it is the most important part of my life.’ Later, her reflections from the video, we come to learn that single moment in college was in fact her turning point, where ownership for Catholicism entered her life; so much so that a willingness to lay down her life for others was soon to come, but how?
Embiggen your brain by learning these 7 common words with little-known relatives
7 Common Words With Little-Known Relatives | Mental Floss: While "exhaust," from the Latin for "draw out of," was first attested in 1540 and went on to a great career in the English vocabulary, "inhaust," with the meaning "draw into," was attested in 1547 (something about a "flye inhausted into a mannes throte sodenly") but soon became obsolete.
A brief treatise on the fruits of the Holy Spirit
A Brief Treatise on the Fruits of the Holy Spirit | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: There was a wonderful excursus on the Church as the Body of Christ in the Sunday readings. Would that we might better appreciate the diversity of gifts in the Church today instead of being fearful or dismissive of gifts that we appreciate less. As a pastor, I have come to appreciate that people find their way to God in many and diverse ways and that when the Church permits diversity we ought respectfully rejoice in even in the ways we do not personally prefer.
Why we call St. Thomas Aquinas "The Angelic Doctor"?
Why we call him "The Angelic Doctor" | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: The Doctors of the Church are often designated according to specific epithets which express their characteristic excellence.
Hence, St. Augustine is the “Doctor of Grace” as he was particularly important in developing the Church’s theology of grace. St. Francis de Sales is the “Doctor of Charity” as he was most gentle and filled with love. St. John of the Cross is the “Mystical Doctor” since his writings expound the way of mystical union with God. Et cetera.
Hence, St. Augustine is the “Doctor of Grace” as he was particularly important in developing the Church’s theology of grace. St. Francis de Sales is the “Doctor of Charity” as he was most gentle and filled with love. St. John of the Cross is the “Mystical Doctor” since his writings expound the way of mystical union with God. Et cetera.
St. Thomas Aquinas: Can we know that God exists?
Can we know God exists? | BrandonVogt.comVOGT: Today marks the feast of St. Thomas Aquinas, perhaps the greatest thinker in Church history. The Dominican prodigy is best known for his two massive "Summas", the Summa Theologica and the Summa Contra Gentiles, along with a wealth of other writings on Scripture, theology, and philosophy. Pope Benedict XVI recently noted St. Thomas' influence on the Church
The media forgot to notice the March For Life again, but ABC News did see fit to do a story on Subway sandwiches
Foot-long subs vs. March For LifeHEMINGWAY: My family and I participated in the March For Life and, smack dab in the middle of it, we didn’t really have much of a perspective of its size. It was extremely cold — just brutal conditions — so I kept my head down and my hands in my pocket. I knew that the number of Lutherans for Life, which was our contingent, was significantly larger than any previous year. If you watch the video above, which comes not from a mainstream media source but from Roman Catholic broadcast network EWTN, you can get something of a feel for how many people move past one bend in the march over the course of 8 minutes.
Accused Franciscan friar commits suicide in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania: accused Franciscan friar commits suicide : News Headlines - Catholic Culture: A Franciscan friar who was accused of abuse by dozens of his former male students has committed suicide.
Brother Stephen Baker, TOR, worked as a teacher and coach at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School in Warren, Oh., from 1986 to 1992 and at Bishop McCort Catholic High School in Johnstown, Penn., from 1992 to 2002.
Brother Stephen Baker, TOR, worked as a teacher and coach at John F. Kennedy Catholic High School in Warren, Oh., from 1986 to 1992 and at Bishop McCort Catholic High School in Johnstown, Penn., from 1992 to 2002.
St. Thomas Aquinas and the Flying Nun
Thomas Aquinas the the Flying NunLONGENECKER: In a nearby convent there was a nun who had taken to levitating during mystical prayer. The people were, of course, stupefied by this astounding miracle and were flocking to see the flying nun. The novices in Thomas’ friary were just as excited as the others and dragged the great philosopher off to see the floating sister. Thomas joined the crowd and gazed up at this amazing sight. Then, when the brothers asked him what he thought he said, “I didn’t know nuns wore such big boots.”
"Based on a true story": How Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln, and Argo embellished the facts
The 'based on a true story' fake-out: How 3 Oscar contenders misled audiences - The Week: O
nly in Hollywood could a movie that's "based on a true story" endure heaps of criticism for being too unrealistic and still manage to walk away with multiple awards. Indeed, in the grand tradition of previous Best Picture winners like The King's Speech and A Beautiful Mind, three of this year's biggest Oscar contenders — Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln, and Argo — have claimed, to varying degrees, to be based on real events. But historians, reporters, and even government officials insist that these movies are playing awfully fast and loose with the truth.
nly in Hollywood could a movie that's "based on a true story" endure heaps of criticism for being too unrealistic and still manage to walk away with multiple awards. Indeed, in the grand tradition of previous Best Picture winners like The King's Speech and A Beautiful Mind, three of this year's biggest Oscar contenders — Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln, and Argo — have claimed, to varying degrees, to be based on real events. But historians, reporters, and even government officials insist that these movies are playing awfully fast and loose with the truth.
You have to be terrified to justify murder
You Have to Be Terrified to Justify Murder |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: It's safe to say that most sane, law-abiding citizens abhor the thought of homicide; however, most of us have a few narrow conditions under which we believe it would be morally acceptable to kill another person. And it always comes down to self-defense. You see this reflected in our laws, which state that murdering someone in the street because he's annoying you is a crime, but murdering someone who has broken into your home and is running at you with a knife is not a crime. You see it in popular opinion as well: Who among us wouldn't agree that a woman attacked in a dark alley has the right to use any means to defend herself, even if it puts her attacker's life at risk?
If your hope for the Church ever dims, it might be time to visit the Nashville Dominicans
The Light of God in Nashville, Tennessee |Blogs | NCRegister.comDANBURKE: Countless souls have been blessed and encouraged to heaven by the Dominicans Sisters of St. Cecilia (also known as the "Nashville Dominicans"). Several weeks ago, I had the profound honor of briefly joining them in their mission by providing a number of talks and Q&A sessions on the spiritual life for the parents of Overbrook, their elementary school.
My first talk — to the women — was on the deep well of wisdom that the Doctors of the Church provide in their teachings on the path of union with God. Later, during the men’s retreat, my two talks focused on developing a transformational relationship with God, and understanding the various stages of spiritual growth, from spiritual infancy to maturity. Our discussion included an exceptional priest, Fr. Michael Kelly, and the insightful retreat leader, Brother John Ignatius.
My first talk — to the women — was on the deep well of wisdom that the Doctors of the Church provide in their teachings on the path of union with God. Later, during the men’s retreat, my two talks focused on developing a transformational relationship with God, and understanding the various stages of spiritual growth, from spiritual infancy to maturity. Our discussion included an exceptional priest, Fr. Michael Kelly, and the insightful retreat leader, Brother John Ignatius.
How to deal with the casual anti-Catholicism of your friends and colleagues
A reader wants to know what to do… |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: I think you are right to take the attitude of "Compared to real persecution, this is nothing" and to quash any temptation to feed feelings of anger or bitterness.� Mark Twain said, "Never attribute to malice what can be sufficiently explained by stupidity."� That line, funny as it is, is not quite fair in this case because your work mates are not stupid (necessarily) but simply oblivious.� They've drunk in, as have most Americans, the casual post-Christian anti-Catholicism of American culture and simply regurgitate it as pseudoknowledge that all normal people accept.� The trick, therefore, is to introduce them--brightly, cheerfully, and without the stench of victimism--to the fact that most of what they "know" is wrong, that Catholics are remarkably like human beings, and that they achieve this feat, not by perpetually apologizing for their faith ("I mean, I'm Catholic, but I'm not extreme about it and certainly don't go for all that stuff those dusty old bishops say") but by quietly and happily showing how, on a day to day basis, Catholic faith informs your life and makes it more human.
If you're sick, does that mean you don't have enough faith in God?
If you're sick, does that mean you don't have enough faith in God? |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: According to some Christians, we shouldn't ever be sick. If we ever are sick, it represents a failure on our part.
We haven't had enough faith, they may say, for if we had perfect faith, God would heal us.
Some would see going to the doctor as a sign of bad or weak faith.
It would be nice if we could be healed, instantly, of any sickness or infirmity.
It would also be a great evangelization tool, if people saw Christians never got sick.
But the fact is that God allows sickness in our lives.
We haven't had enough faith, they may say, for if we had perfect faith, God would heal us.
Some would see going to the doctor as a sign of bad or weak faith.
It would be nice if we could be healed, instantly, of any sickness or infirmity.
It would also be a great evangelization tool, if people saw Christians never got sick.
But the fact is that God allows sickness in our lives.
Pope marks upcoming World Day of the Sick, grants plenary indulgence to patients and caretakers worldwide
VIS news - Holy See Press Office: INDULGENCES FOR THE WORLD DAY OF THE SICK: Benedict XVI will grant Plenary Indulgence to the faithful participating in the 21st World Day of the Sick to be celebrated 7–11 February, in Altotting, Germany according to a decree published today and signed by Cardinal Manuel Monteiro de Castro and Bishop Krzysztof Nykiel, respectively penitentiary major and regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary.
NCR responds to bishop's criticism of dissent, says it will continue "to call itself a Catholic publication"
Kansas City bishop says NCR undermines the faith | National Catholic Reporter: Kansas City-St. Joseph, Mo., Bishop Robert Finn wrote Friday the National Catholic Reporter is undermining church teachings. He cited coverage of women’s ordination, artificial contraception, sexual morality in general, and the “lionizing” of dissident theologies. His remarks appeared in a column entitled “The Bishop’s Role In Fostering The Mission Of The Catholic Media.” It was posted in the online edition of the official diocesan newspaper, the Catholic Key.
This is where Google keeps your email and YouTube videos
Where Google Keeps Your Email And YouTube Videos - Business Insider: Right now, you're probably sitting on your couch with a laptop in your lap, a tablet in your hands, or a smartphone in your palm.
You're moving around the Internet, sending emails, watching videos, and reading this post.�
It can seem like those activities take place in a non-physical, vaporous world.�
There are no wires connecting you to the Internet, no hoses pumping, and no gears whirring.
You're moving around the Internet, sending emails, watching videos, and reading this post.�
It can seem like those activities take place in a non-physical, vaporous world.�
There are no wires connecting you to the Internet, no hoses pumping, and no gears whirring.
10 things you need to know today: January 28, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 28, 2013 - The Week: Brazil mourns victims of nightclub fire, senators unveil immigration overhaul, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Sunday, January 27, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 27, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 27, 2013 - The Week: A Brazilian nightclub fire kills more than 200, hundreds march for gun control, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
As sin becomes a civil right, Catholic military chaplains could soon become outlaws
New Advent: As sin becomes a civil right, Catholic military chaplains could soon become outlawsRUTLER: The military chaplaincy is under threat by our own government as part of its social agenda. One year ago, the Army’s Office of the Chief of Chaplains tried to forbid Catholic chaplains from reading a statement from the Military Ordinary, Archbishop Timothy Broglio, who oversees all priests in the Catholic Ordinariate for the Armed Forces, in which he objected to federally mandated health insurance covering sterilization, abortifacients and contraception in violation of the right to religious freedom. Now the government would compel chaplains to acquiesce in “same-sex” simulations of marriage.
So THAT'S how it works: An animated look at how a key opens a standard lock
An Animated Inside Look at How a Key Opens a Standard Lock: Norwegian animator Stian Berg Larsen created a wonderful 3D animated video (part 2) that gives us an inside look at exactly how a key opens a standard lock. This was created as part of a lock picking tutorial that Stian is working on.
On the wonder of the Word of God: A homily for the Third Sunday of the Year
On The Wonder of The Word of God – A Homily for the Third Sunday of the Year | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: The Gospel for this Sunday is continued next week and so perhaps we can await an analysis of it until then. The First reading from Nehemiah 8 is a wonderful meditation on the glory and wonder of the Word of God and it deserves our attention.
The background of the text is that Israel, in 587 BC had been conquered by the Babylonians and the survivors of that war were led into exile in Babylon. After 80 years the Persians conquered the Babylonians and Cyrus, King of Persia, permitted the Jews to return to the Promised Land. Sadly, only a small number chose to return and rebuild the ruined land and city. Among them was Nehemiah, a Royal official and Jew who led the small band back and oversaw the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
The background of the text is that Israel, in 587 BC had been conquered by the Babylonians and the survivors of that war were led into exile in Babylon. After 80 years the Persians conquered the Babylonians and Cyrus, King of Persia, permitted the Jews to return to the Promised Land. Sadly, only a small number chose to return and rebuild the ruined land and city. Among them was Nehemiah, a Royal official and Jew who led the small band back and oversaw the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
In my Latin class yesterday, one of the students said something that made my jaw fall open...
Bedlam or Parnassus: The Pope, Public School, and ParentsPERKINS: We see the full spectrum in our schools, the abject poor and the fabulously wealthy, the abused and the nurtured, and everything in between.� While it is true that even my student could be a detention hall regular by making her own bad choices, the fact is that she has a much greater chance of success with parents like this behind her.� She is a junior now, and it is clear that detention hall is not likely her destination.
Mystical theology is a kind of knowing that only love knows
Beginning to Pray: Mystical Theology and the Truth about HumanityLILLES: What is mystical theology?�� Although it is reflected in the teachings of the Church and shines out whenever the Holy Bible is prayerfully read, this wisdom is not something accomplished or obtained primarily by intellectual effort or psychological feat.� Mystical wisdom is primarily a gift, something produced by the “object” of Christian prayer, an “object” who cannot really be reduced to an object at all – for God is ineffable mystery, a mystery of relationship, of love so full of meaning that any reverent effort to seek meaning in Him always falls into the silence of humble adoration. ��Mystical wisdom is a living awareness of God’s presence in which one is made more and more vulnerable to the inexhaustible riches of his love.
If there is a pope...
If There Is a Pope . . .BRAMWELL: Well, there is. What follows from that fact? First of all he is not an isolated figurehead or a religious figure who is far away in another country. That would be the Protestant view and the common cultural view in the United States. Rather in the Catholic Church, Christ “rules her through the Supreme Pontiff and the bishops. ”(Vatican II) In the Church, we speak of the mystery where, in reality: “The bonds which bind men to the Church in a visible way are [the] profession of faith, the sacraments, and ecclesiastical government and communion.”
Pope's weekly Angelus: Devote every Sunday to God, and seize every day for your salvation
Vatican Radio - Angelus: Living Sunday as the Lord’s day: “What does Sunday, the day of the Lord, mean for us? It is a day for rest and for family, but first of all a day for Him”, tweeted Pope Benedict XVI this Sunday shortly after concluding the midday Angelus prayer with the thousands of pilgrims – mostly Romans – who had flocked to St Peter’s Square. Emer McCarthy reports:
It was a day with many important anniversaries: International Holocaust Remembrance Day, World Day of Prayer for the Holy Land, and World Leprosy Day.
The Holy Father spoke of how Sunday is a propitious day for people to entrust themselves, their prayers and intentions to the Lord, because on Sunday, through the Eucharist and living to His life-giving Word, we have a direct channel of communication to the Lord.
It was a day with many important anniversaries: International Holocaust Remembrance Day, World Day of Prayer for the Holy Land, and World Leprosy Day.
The Holy Father spoke of how Sunday is a propitious day for people to entrust themselves, their prayers and intentions to the Lord, because on Sunday, through the Eucharist and living to His life-giving Word, we have a direct channel of communication to the Lord.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
"I had an abortion. How does God see me now?"
"I had an abortion." - Made in His ImageBYRNE: This morning as I was editing a photo, I typed the caption, "40 years. 55 million casualties. 110 million wounded parents." I paused. I know some of those 110 million parents. I carry them in my thoughts and prayers today in a special way. Then one asked, I had an abortion, how does God see me?
Now I’m not a theologian or apologist, and while I strive for holiness, I have certainly not gotten there. But I do know one thing, I know of the Father’s love. I could never fully comprehend the depths of His love, for that is beyond our capacity. But I have seen it. I have felt it. And that is how I know that God loves you. And there is no hesitation in that fact.
Now I’m not a theologian or apologist, and while I strive for holiness, I have certainly not gotten there. But I do know one thing, I know of the Father’s love. I could never fully comprehend the depths of His love, for that is beyond our capacity. But I have seen it. I have felt it. And that is how I know that God loves you. And there is no hesitation in that fact.
Interactive dot map aims to show every person in U.S., Canada
Interactive dot map aims to show every person in U.S., Canada – What's Next - CNN.com Blogs: Do you ever feel like the place you live is just a dot on a map? Well, if you live in the U.S. or Canada, Brandon Martin-Anderson just made you a dot on a map. The MIT graduate student has built an interactive online map that displays one dot for every resident of the United States and Canada, as counted by the most recent censuses. That's 341,817,095 dots. Hover over your town or city, and black smudges on the map gradually dissolve into dot clusters and then individual dots as you zoom in.
The making of a Dodge Viper
New Advent: The making of a Dodge Viper: Inside a newly reopened Chrysler plant in Detroit, a car revs to life. Related article: http://nyti.ms/XVVlRf
Why are you always short on time? A Stanford researcher stumbles on the surprising (and surprisingly Catholic) answer...
New Advent: Why are you always short on time? A Stanford researcher stumbles on the surprising (and surprisingly Catholic) answer...: Melanie Rudd, a final-year PhD candidate at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, explains how experiencing moments of awe expands our perception of time and alleviates feelings of "time famine." Rudd developed on her research with Jennifer Aaker, General Atlantic professor of marketing at the Stanford GSB and Kathleen Vohs at the University of Minnesota.
Young people have grown up with ultrasound pictures. When their parents call an unborn baby a "clump of cells", they know they're lying...
The Ultrasound Generation - Catholic New YorkDOLAN: For much of the 40 years since the Supreme Court’s tragic Roe v. Wade decision ushering in an era of abortion on demand, we in the pro-life community have had little to cheer about. In the battle for hearts and minds, it has at times seemed as though we were losing ground, and fast. We could preach about the sacredness of all human life, about the harm that abortion does to women who are so often coerced by others into doing the unthinkable, and the lifetime of pain and regret so many of them, and the fathers of the aborted baby, face as a result. For a long time we were overwhelmed by even louder voices proclaiming “choice” to be the ultimate right. For too many of my generation, that argument was effective and catchy, and there is no changing their minds.
Orthodoxy is complicated, and science is puzzling, but heresy works. It gets things done, damn the consequences...
The Imaginative Conservative: Heresy Gets Things DoneZMIRAK: Aside from plastic tanning beds and the self-reproducing nanorobots that someday (some hope) will smother the earth in “grey goo,” there’s nothing new under the sun. The heretical temptation goes all the way back to Adam, nibbling at Satan’s sour apple in search of easy answers. When Alexander the Great faced the impossibly complex Gordian Knot—whose legend foretold that the man who untied it would rule over all Asia—the king forgot his Aristotelian training, pulled out his sword, and cut through the knot. With a single stroke, he became the first great heretic in the West.
I wish my Catholicism horrified more smug Christians
Why Bother With Church?LONGENECKER: When I was a high school chaplain I had a conversation with some nice parents who attended a Protestant church of some sort. They were distressed because their tenth grade son had announced that he no longer wanted to go to church. When they asked him why he said, “I love Jesus in my heart. Why do I need to go to church?”
I asked the parents what their reply was and they rather stammered and stuttered that they didn’t really have an answer. The kid had stumped them.
I asked the parents what their reply was and they rather stammered and stuttered that they didn’t really have an answer. The kid had stumped them.
March for Life gets a new head and, perhaps, a new focus
- The Washington Post: A few months ago, Jeanne Monahan was a think tank lecturer who nudged her antiabortion agenda at small meetings around Capitol Hill. Today, she is the head of the March for Life, the country’s largest antiabortion gathering, perhaps the key event abortion opponents watch each January.
The weight of that — and her speedy, unexpected rise — was very present Thursday as Monahan stood on an otherwise-empty stage on the Mall during a final walk-through for the march. A frigid wind whipped around as she looked out on the snowy grass where tens of thousands would gather the next day.
The weight of that — and her speedy, unexpected rise — was very present Thursday as Monahan stood on an otherwise-empty stage on the Mall during a final walk-through for the march. A frigid wind whipped around as she looked out on the snowy grass where tens of thousands would gather the next day.
The Catholic Church is firm and dogmatic, and that is good for Catholics and non-Catholics alike...
The Catholic Church: A 2,000-year-old mission of faith - The Washington PostWUERL: The church has long been criticized as “too dogmatic.” Demands are constantly made that it change its 2,000-year-old teachings on marriage, family, sexuality, morality and other matters related to the truth about human beings. But even if others do not agree, the church understands that what it proclaims is revealed truth — the Word of God. The church’s teachings are timeless. They cannot be changed, even though adherence may be upsetting to some. That the church is built on a rock with fixed beliefs is a positive feature, both because it can withstand the shifting winds of public opinion and because of the cherished content of our faith itself, which fosters love among Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
Top 10 good tech habits everyone should have
Top 10 Good Tech Habits Everyone Should Have: You've probably heard people tell you should back up your computer, or you should have more secure passwords. Good tech habits aren't just for geeks—they can save you money, keep your personal information safe, and help you avoid frustration down the road. Here are ten tech habits everyone should have.
Buffalo’s first married priest says he will stop having sex
Buffalo’s married priest says he will stop having sex—UPDATED WITH VIDEO: The paper refers to what Deacon Cornelius is doing as taking a “vow of celibacy.” �Uh, no. �As a couple readers have pointed out, a married man can’t do that, since celibacy is the unmarried state and he is, unquestionably, married. And there’s nothing in the ordination rite that addresses what he is planning to do.
In the days to come, you'll be hearing more about this important Colorado Catholic hospital lawsuit. Here's the background...
Is a fetus a person? The Colorado Supreme Court may have to decide. - - News - Denver - Westword: On the morning of the day she died, 31-year-old Lori Stodghill balanced her breakfast plate on her very pregnant belly and watched it bob up and down as the twin boys inside her kicked and kicked. The saucer-sized dish was "bouncing back and forth," her husband, Jeremy Stodghill, remembers — a sure sign that at 28 weeks, the babies were strong and healthy.
Colorado bishops respond to Catholic hospitals' claim that unborn twins are not persons
The Catholic Bishops of Colorado Respond to Hospitals’ Claim of Unborn Twins Personhood: A couple of days ago, my blog neighbor Deacon Greg Kandra shared a news item about a Catholic hospital in Colorado that is a defendant in a wrongful death lawsuit. The story is noteworthy because the Catholic hospitals’ legal defense team argued that while the patient (who died seven years ago), Lori Stodghill, was indisputably a person, they noted that under Colorado law, her unborn twins, 28 weeks of gestation at the time of death, are not considered persons.
There are three things that last: faith, hope, and love
RealClearReligion - Faith, Hope, and LoveBARRON: St. Paul famously tells the Corinthians that there are "three things that last: faith, hope, and love." At this Pauline prompt, the Christian tradition has identified these three as the "theological" virtues, meaning those features that come as a unique gift and (from?) God and that serve as the structuring elements of a properly spiritual life. They are also today massively misunderstood, and this misunderstanding has, I would contend, contributed mightily to the dismissing of religion in many circles of our increasingly secularist society.
Contrary to popular belief, Roe v. Wade did not introduce legal abortion to the United States. It did something even worse...
The Real Reason to Criticize Roe | Public Discourse: On the fortieth anniversary of Roe v. Wade, it has suddenly become fashionable in certain circles to suggest that the controversial Supreme Court decision was actually a blessing in disguise for pro-lifers, because it breathed new life into a fledgling right-to-life movement and put the abortion rights movement permanently on the defensive. Pro-choice activists have been “losing ever since” Roe, a Time magazine cover story proclaimed this month. Jon Shields pushed this argument even further in the January issue of First Things, declaring that Roe “crippled the pro-choice and energized the pro-life movement, creating one of the largest campaigns of moral suasion in American history.”
How an ultrasound led Abby Johnson from Planned Parenthood to the Catholic Church
From Abortion Worker to Catholic Apostle | Daily News | NCRegister.comDRAKE: In 2009, Abby Johnson left her position as health center director of Planned Parenthood in Bryan, Texas, where she had worked for eight years. Her book Unplanned tells her compelling story.
Last Easter, Abby and her husband entered the Catholic Church. She spoke with Register senior writer Tim Drake about her conversion and her new apostolate for abortion workers who desire to leave the industry
Last Easter, Abby and her husband entered the Catholic Church. She spoke with Register senior writer Tim Drake about her conversion and her new apostolate for abortion workers who desire to leave the industry
Pope modifies Roman Curia, transfers responsibility for catechesis and seminaries
Pope transfers responsibility for catechesis, seminaries :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Benedict has written two new directives modifying the departments in the Roman Curia which are responsible for catechesis and the formation of priests throughout the Church.
The Pope gave the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization the task of “caring for...the relevant instrument of evangelization that the Catechism, along with catechetical teaching in all its diverse forms, represents for the Church in order to bring about a more organic and effective pastoral outreach.”
The Pope gave the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization the task of “caring for...the relevant instrument of evangelization that the Catechism, along with catechetical teaching in all its diverse forms, represents for the Church in order to bring about a more organic and effective pastoral outreach.”
Ask Father Barron: What should you say to your Catholic friends who struggle with Church teaching?
Ask Fr. Barron: What to say to Catholics who struggle with Church teaching? |Blogs | NCRegister.comWARNER: This week's question for Fr. Barron comes from Fr. James Martin of America Magazine. It's an extremely relevant question and Fr. Barron provides some great wisdom for helping Catholics deal with those hot-button social issues they may disagree with. It's particularly a great lesson for anyone who wants to help people who struggle with various teachings of the Church.
How Pearl Harbor led to a war on pinball
How Pearl Harbor Led to a War on Pinball | Mental Floss: On April 2, 1976, 28-year-old magazine editor Roger Sharpe stood before a pinball machine inside the New York City Council chambers, holding the future of the game in his hands. Pointing to a spot on the machine, he announced, “If I pull this plunger back just right, the ball will go down this center lane.” Pinball’s Babe Ruth was calling his shot. Sharpe pulled back the plunger and let the ball fly.
The National Catholic Reporter is not Catholic
The Bishop’s Role in Fostering the Mission of the Catholic Media | The Catholic KeyFINN: When I was editor of the diocesan paper in St. Louis, my office had a statue of St. Francis DeSales, Bishop of Geneva, and Doctor of the Church. Francis died in 1622. He is regarded as a patron of journalists and of the Catholic Press. His feast day is January 24, and has been observed by the Vatican for many years as World Communications Day. Again this year, the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI has used the occasion to give a message to us on Social Communications.
In my opinion, Bishop Finn was too kind to the National Catholic Reporter
Recognizing the National Catholic Reporter for what it is (actually, for what it isn’t) � In the Light of the LawEDPETERS: Bishop Robert Finn has a very good column on a local bishop’s responsibility over local media in regard to the promotion and protection of the Catholic Faith. Most folks, however, will likely skim the first part of the essay, and go right for Finn’s critique of the National Catholic Reporter in the second.
A few reflections after the March for Life
Joy and Sorrow. A Few reflections after the March For Life | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: As I have remarked before, to March for Life is experience life. So many joyful Christians and others who support life gather and celebrate the glory and dignity of human life. The March is ever young, with the ranks of so many young people growing every year.
Here at my rectory are 15 fine seminarians from the Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit. Fine orthodox, and zealous men who love God and the Church and are eager to preach the Gospel and celebrate the sacraments. Almost 700 seminarians marched into the Basilica Thursday evening along with hundreds of priests, and as many as 8000 lay people, standing room only in the Great Upper Church, and also filling the chapels of the undercroft.
Here at my rectory are 15 fine seminarians from the Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit. Fine orthodox, and zealous men who love God and the Church and are eager to preach the Gospel and celebrate the sacraments. Almost 700 seminarians marched into the Basilica Thursday evening along with hundreds of priests, and as many as 8000 lay people, standing room only in the Great Upper Church, and also filling the chapels of the undercroft.
Thirteen years before the “Arab Spring,” I knew in my gut that the apocalypse of Egyptian Christendom was coming
Apocalyptic EgyptWARREN: Once a hack, always a hack: I am writing every day on a variety of “issues,” many the same with which I wrestled as a newspaper pundit, in the job I retired from last summer. And yet, for months now, I do not recall touching on the Middle East, even in passing. It is not that I haven’t been following the news. It is not that I have run out of “angles.” Rather it is a form of acedia: an exhaustion with “Islamism” and what appears to be its unalterable course.
10 things you need to know today: January 26, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 26, 2013 - The Week: A court rules recess appointments unconstitutional, new home sales decline, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Pope receives Roman Rota in audience, says "lack of faith" may affect the validity of marriage
Vatican Radio - Pope to Roman Rota: Lack of faith may hurt the validity of marriage: Lack of faith may hurt the intrinsic goods of marriage: procreation, marital fidelity and its indissolubility. This was the message at the heart of Pope Benedict XVI’s address Saturday morning to members of the Tribunal of the Roman Rota received in audience for the opening of the judicial year.
The Pope reiterated that the current crisis of faith brings with it a crisis of conjugal society. He also pointed out that the rejection of the Divine leads to a deep imbalance in all human relationships.
The Pope reiterated that the current crisis of faith brings with it a crisis of conjugal society. He also pointed out that the rejection of the Divine leads to a deep imbalance in all human relationships.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Five "good habits" you need to unlearn
Five "Good Habits" You Need to Unlearn: Productivity is an ever-evolving study of what works and what doesn't. The way we work can change at a rapid-fire pace and what was accepted as a best practice in years past, can now do more harm than good. The team at 99U focuses on the creative insights we didn't get in school which, sometimes, means we have to unlearn habits that were previously perceived as being "good." Below are some tips that go against the grain of typical productivity advice.
This Sunday, we will hear about the dawn of a new day, and the creation of a new people of God
New Day Dawns: Scott Hahn Reflects on the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Times | St. Paul Center For Biblical TheologyHAHN: The meaning of today’s Liturgy is subtle and many-layered.
We need background to understand what’s happening in today’s First Reading.
Babylon having been defeated, King Cyrus of Persia decreed that the exiled Jews could return home to Jerusalem. They rebuilt their ruined temple and under Nehemiah finished rebuilding the city walls.
The stage was set for the renewal of the covenant and the re-establishment of the Law of Moses as the people’s rule of life. That’s what’s going on in today’s First Reading, as Ezra reads and interprets the Law and the people respond with a great “Amen!”
We need background to understand what’s happening in today’s First Reading.
Babylon having been defeated, King Cyrus of Persia decreed that the exiled Jews could return home to Jerusalem. They rebuilt their ruined temple and under Nehemiah finished rebuilding the city walls.
The stage was set for the renewal of the covenant and the re-establishment of the Law of Moses as the people’s rule of life. That’s what’s going on in today’s First Reading, as Ezra reads and interprets the Law and the people respond with a great “Amen!”
A Bad Lip Reading of Barack Obama's inauguration
New Advent: A Bad Lip Reading of Barack Obama's inauguration: We're pretty sure Beyoncé wasn't really singing here either.
To stop thinking like a conspiracy theorist, you have to start thinking like a treasury agent
Conspiracy Theories |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Treasury agents don't look at every possible permutation of a counterfeit bill in the feverish fear that some small slip will cause them to fail and destroy everything they know and love by lack of panicky vigilance.� They look at real bills.� They learn what the Real Thing looks like so well that they instantly know a fake.� That is what Jesus means when he says, "My sheep hear my voice and will not follow another."� So rather than listening for every creak on the floorboards that might be the approach of another conspiracy, we should instead listen for Jesus' voice and respond only to that with love that comes� from faith, not fear that comes from the sin of despair.
How far is North Korea from being able to hit the U.S. with a nuke?
How far is North Korea from being able to hit the U.S. with a nuke? - The Week: Pyongyang unleashes fresh threats against Washington and South Korea over toughening U.N. sanctions. Should we be worried?
Catholic colleges charter buses, cancel classes as record number of students heads to March for Life
Pro-Life Catholic Colleges Put Faith in Action at March for Life � Campus NotesDRAKE: This week’s 40th anniversary of the tragic Roe v. Wade ruling is marked by the participation tomorrow of several faithful Catholic colleges and universities in the Washington, D.C., March for Life. This year, attendance is expected to reach an all-time high. Total student participation by schools featured in The Cardinal Newman Society’s Newman Guide will surpass 2,000.
As soon as Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the child leapt in her womb
The Child Leapt in Her Womb |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: I've thought about that line from Luke often. The child in the womb leapt. On this day when hundreds of thousands of people will march for children in the womb, those words have great meaning. The child leapt.
I also can't help but think what a wonderfully appropriate reaction the unborn John had to the presence of Jesus. He leapt. There is something unrestrained and joyous about it that has long fascinated me.
Christianity is, after all, a leaping faith. Without us doing much of anything to deserve it, God's Son came into the world for the purpose of our salvation. That's about the best reason to leap I've ever heard.
I also can't help but think what a wonderfully appropriate reaction the unborn John had to the presence of Jesus. He leapt. There is something unrestrained and joyous about it that has long fascinated me.
Christianity is, after all, a leaping faith. Without us doing much of anything to deserve it, God's Son came into the world for the purpose of our salvation. That's about the best reason to leap I've ever heard.
On the eve of the March for Life, "It's about the effect our words have on others"
Whispers in the Loggia: On March Eve, "It's About the Effect Our Words Have on Others"PALMO: Marking the 40th anniversary of the legalization of abortion on these shores in the Supreme Court's ruling on Roe v. Wade, on this eve of the 40th March for Life in Washington, the annual preach that's become the de facto "State of the Movement" was given earlier tonight in the capital by one of the event's founders – Boston's Cardinal Seán O'Malley OFM Cap., in his first turn as chair of the US bishops' Committee for Pro-Life Activities
Thoughts on the miracle of life, as we march
Thoughts on the Miracle of Life, As We March. | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Today, many will march, and all are called to remember the sacred lives that have been lost. We acknowledge our loss, for the gifts of these children and their lives have been swept from us as well. We pray for women who struggle to bring children to term and experience pressure to consider abortion. We pray for the immediate and sudden conversion of all support legalized abortion for any reason and for a dedication to assist women facing any difficulty in giving birth to or raising their children.
Armchair travel: 14 wonderful island resorts in the Maldives
THE WORLD GEOGRAPHY: 14 Wonderful Island Resorts in the Maldives: Maldives is very famous for its natural beauty which includes the blue ocean and white beaches, accompanied by clean air and pleasant temperatures. Due to its extraordinary underwater scenery and clean water, Maldives is ranked among the best recreational diving destinations of the world. It consists of 1.192 coral islands, of which over 50 were turned into a marvelous resorts.
The pushmi-pullyu at the March for Life
The Pushmi-pullyu at the March for Life |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: There is no one single cause of abortion.� There is no one single reason women go through that door.� There is no one single type of woman who gets an abortion.� The only thing they have in common is that they are mothers of a live children when the go in, mothers of dead children when the come out.
Some women and girls are there because they've been physically dragged into the clinic.� Some have been blackmailed, bullied, or terrified into it.� But some couldn't wait.� Some feel dead inside.� Some feel tremendous relief to be there.� Some think it's no big deal.� Some kill themselves afterward.� Some already have children at home; some will be sterilized when the abortionist's hand slips.� Some will feel grateful to the abortionist, and will volunteer at the clinic for the next several decades; some will feel horror and regret, and will throw themselves into the pro-life cause.� And for some, it doesn't matter why they came in to the clinic, because they will hemorrhage to death on their way out.
Some women and girls are there because they've been physically dragged into the clinic.� Some have been blackmailed, bullied, or terrified into it.� But some couldn't wait.� Some feel dead inside.� Some feel tremendous relief to be there.� Some think it's no big deal.� Some kill themselves afterward.� Some already have children at home; some will be sterilized when the abortionist's hand slips.� Some will feel grateful to the abortionist, and will volunteer at the clinic for the next several decades; some will feel horror and regret, and will throw themselves into the pro-life cause.� And for some, it doesn't matter why they came in to the clinic, because they will hemorrhage to death on their way out.
Cardinal Stafford: How Roe v. Wade changed America
New Advent: Cardinal Stafford: How Roe v. Wade changed America: J. Francis Cardinal Stafford, retired head of the Apostolic Penitentiary, talks about the cultural legacy of the U.S. Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.
Two signs that the Holy Spirit is preparing a new springtime for the Church
FRONT-LINE TRAINING FOR THE NEW EVANGELISM | Prayer and PerspectiveHINKEL: The new springtime in the Church is quietly growing underneath the ice that has settled on the moral and spiritual landscape of this country. Like green blades of grass barely visible beneath the blanket of snow but then seem to magically pop up at the first sign of warmth, the Holy Spirit is preparing for new growth in His Church. The most obvious sign is the growing number of laity being trained for the front lines of the new evangelism. The second obvious sign is the number of laity who take seriously their call to holiness. When there exists a program that combines these two realities, God is readying His troops for an offensive.
10 things you need to know today: January 25, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 25, 2013 - The Week: The Senate modifies the filibuster, Samsung warns of slowing smartphone growth, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
"I join all those marching for life from afar": Pope Benedict pledges support as massive crowd gathers in Washington
Vatican Radio - Pope: support for US march for life: Pope Benedict XVI has pledged his support for the March for Life in the United States. Using his @pontifex Twitter handle, the Pope said, "I join all those marching for life from afar, and pray that political leaders will protect the unborn and promote a culture of life." This year's March for Life is marking the 40th anniversary of the US Supreme Court's decision in the case of Roe v. Wade, which made abortion legal in all fifty states. Earlier this week, the Holy Father issued his Message for World Communication Day, in which he called on Catholics to be engaged through all forms of social media, especially new media, in spreading the Good News and building up public discourse.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Adding a stitch in the seamless garment of life
Pursued by Truth: Adding a Stitch in the Seamless Garment of LifeNOBLE: Many of you probably read the recent heartbreaking news of Marc and Eddy, deaf twins who requested, and were granted, euthanization in Belgium after discovering they were going blind.�
Later this year, Belgium's ruling party is set to consider allowing the euthanasia of children and Alzheimer's sufferers.�
This news was on my mind recently when I read about Robert Gleason, an inmate in Virginia, who was executed last week. He wanted the death penalty so badly that he killed other inmates so he would receive it.�
Later this year, Belgium's ruling party is set to consider allowing the euthanasia of children and Alzheimer's sufferers.�
This news was on my mind recently when I read about Robert Gleason, an inmate in Virginia, who was executed last week. He wanted the death penalty so badly that he killed other inmates so he would receive it.�
Like it was part of his name
Like It Was Part of His Name |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: My husband and I both work at our computers off and on throughout the day, and we email back and forth a lot.� Every once in a while, I get what looks like an empty message from him -- just a series of dots in a box.� This makes me� laugh every time, because I know what happened:� It's just Gmail being too smart for its own good again.� When you end every email the same way, Gmail thinks it's your signature, and thinks it doesn't have to include it in every email, especially if it's a response to a response to a response to a response to a response.� The recipient must know who it's from by now.� So smart, right?
The 100 richest people in the world (and how they got that way)
Bloomberg Billionaires: From Bloomberg Visual Data...
Some practical tips to help you grow in social humility
From Butterfly to Humble Pie: Tips for Social Humility | The Catholic WifeKATIESCIBA: Ryan was a few years ahead of me at Benedictine and light-years ahead of the rest of us in spirituality. He was young for his class but his mature face gave a real mid-thirties look to him, which I think made us all pay more attention to anything he said. Or maybe it was the fact that he was quiet most of the time, amplifying the occasions when he did speak. Regardless, he was well-respected on campus, known for his content piety and his plans to head straight to the monastery after graduation.
Nellie Gray and the March for Life
New Advent: Nellie Gray and the "March for Life": A local Newtown, Connecticut woman was interviewed on a radio news program a couple of days after the killing of twenty first-graders. The woman said she couldn't understand how anyone could slaughter innocent children. She said "they were just babies". Almost 40 years ago Nellie Gray said something similar at a meeting which resulted in the formation of an ad hoc committee to plan a demonstration to protest the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision. She said she couldn't understand how any American could sit by idly and accept the court's decision to allow the killing of pre-born babies.
Just because we can do something, doesn’t mean that we should
“Reproductive Rights” Run Amuck - Truth and Charity ForumZIMMERMAN: In Australia, IVF clinics are reporting that the number of older, single, heterosexual women using donor sperm to conceive a child has increased by 10% in the past three years. This trend is particularly pronounced in Victoria where it is no longer illegal for single women to undergo IVF if they are not medically infertile.
They are categorized by the IVF industry as “socially infertile,” women in their 30s who “can’t find Mr. Right, but still want a child.” They often rely on their mother, sister or a friend to support them through the process in the absence of a spouse.
They are categorized by the IVF industry as “socially infertile,” women in their 30s who “can’t find Mr. Right, but still want a child.” They often rely on their mother, sister or a friend to support them through the process in the absence of a spouse.
11 things every husband should know when buying his wife a birthday present
Man In the Woods: 11 Things Every Husband Should Know When Buying His Wife a Birthday PresentCHAPMAN: Men don't like shopping, and if they do, well, that's another story altogether. At any rate, add to that the burden of finding something that makes your wife feel loved (which is as important as finding her something she likes) and it can be downright depressing. Thus, if I can do anything at all to make this process less painful for my married brothers out there in the trenches, I will. The following suggestions don't exactly provide a "how to" for what to buy a woman (after all, there is some variation there), but they do offer some hint as to what specifically to avoid in the process of trying to figure out what to get her, which is at least half of the battle. If you cannot see the comedy and irony in the relationship between the sexes I recommend that you avoid this post, for though it is meant to be helpful, it is also intended to be humorous.
Pope Benedict's tips for evangelizing online
Pope Benedict’s Tips for Evangelizing Online | BrandonVogt.comVOGT: Each year on the feast of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of writers, the Pope releases his message for World Communications Day. Pope John Paul II devoted many of his messages to radio, telveision, and the mass media while Pope Benedict XVI has focused his messages primarily on the Internet.
�
My great passion is evangelizing through new media so I was thrilled to discover the title of this year's message: "Social Networks: Portals of Truth and Faith; New Spaces for Evangelization." Instead of generally focusing on the Internet this message centers specifically on social media.
�
My great passion is evangelizing through new media so I was thrilled to discover the title of this year's message: "Social Networks: Portals of Truth and Faith; New Spaces for Evangelization." Instead of generally focusing on the Internet this message centers specifically on social media.
How to use a fire extinguisher
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher | The Art of Manliness: Fire extinguishers. You pass them all the time as you walk the hallways at work or school, and hopefully at home too.
But no matter how many times you’ve seen them in your day-to-day life, you’ve probably given little thought as to how you actually use one. Maybe it never crossed your mind, or maybe you assume it’s so simple it’s not something you need to learn.
But no matter how many times you’ve seen them in your day-to-day life, you’ve probably given little thought as to how you actually use one. Maybe it never crossed your mind, or maybe you assume it’s so simple it’s not something you need to learn.
How reading St. Francis de Sales has made me a better priest
How reading St. Francis de Sales has made me a better priest | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: “Introduction to the Devout Life”, the spiritual classic in which St. Francis de Sales sets forth the life of devotion not so much for the consecrated religious or cleric but for the laity, is surely the most popular work of the Doctor of the Catholic Press. This is one of those very few books worth reading two hundred times and more. It serves as a trustworthy guide to sanctity.
I have a big dream taking shape. Dream with me...
On the 40th Aniversary of Roe, I have a big dream taking shape. Dream with me. | Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: On this 40th March for Life, I must say, I have longed for us to take a fresh look at the march. And while I hope it never comes, I have wondered if we could not perhaps do something powerfully memorable for the 50th Anniversary. Again, I hope that year never comes and that Roe v. Wade will be gone before then. But, I think that what I dream of is going to take about ten years to plan. I also say this planning may be necessary since this 40th year kinda of caught us off guard...
The 8 secrets of a good Mass
The Eight Secrets of a Good Mass | CatholicHerald.co.ukLUCIE-SMITH: The Vatican is preparing a manual that will help priests celebrate Mass more correctly. This is surely to be welcomed by all priests and all laity. After all, we all want to get the most out of the great gift that is the Mass, don’t we?
I have recently been on holiday and during my time off I went to Church “disguised” as a layman and observed a few things. I am sure lots of people would like to put in their bit as to what goes into the new manual, but here are my thoughts, for what they are worth. Not all of them are of equal importance.
I have recently been on holiday and during my time off I went to Church “disguised” as a layman and observed a few things. I am sure lots of people would like to put in their bit as to what goes into the new manual, but here are my thoughts, for what they are worth. Not all of them are of equal importance.
"New spaces for evangelization": Pope Benedict focuses on social networks in World Communications Day message
Whispers in the Loggia: For B16's Communications Day, A Call to Cyber-"Commitment": Keeping with decades-long Vatican custom, this feast of St Francis de Sales – patron of writers and journalists – yet again brings the release of the papal message for World Communications Day, this year's focus on the theme Social Networks: portals of truth and faith; new spaces for evangelization.
Tied into the Year of Faith, this year's message is just the latest edition of the Communications Day text to shirk attention to older forms of media in favor of the products of the digital revolution.
Tied into the Year of Faith, this year's message is just the latest edition of the Communications Day text to shirk attention to older forms of media in favor of the products of the digital revolution.
10 things you need to know today: January 24, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 24, 2013 - The Week: The Pentagon lifts the ban on women in combat, Apple's stock sinks, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
8 things you need to know about St. Paul and his conversion
8 Things You Need to Know About St. Paul and His Conversion |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Tarsus was the capital city of the Roman province of Cilicia. This is on the southeast coast of modern Turkey, so St. Paul was not from the holy land. He was actually a Jew born in what is now Turkey.
It was a port city and a noted commercial center. For these reasons, and because it was the capital, he can describe it as "no mean city" (that is, no common, ordinary city). It was famous.
One of the things it was famous for was being the place where Mark Anthony first met Cleopatra, after which they embarked on their doomed alliance.
Tarsus survives today as the city of Mersin, Turkey.
It was a port city and a noted commercial center. For these reasons, and because it was the capital, he can describe it as "no mean city" (that is, no common, ordinary city). It was famous.
One of the things it was famous for was being the place where Mark Anthony first met Cleopatra, after which they embarked on their doomed alliance.
Tarsus survives today as the city of Mersin, Turkey.
A letter to President Obama
A Letter to President ObamaERLANDSON: On Jan. 20, you officially began your second term as president of the United States. You were first elected in 2008 at a time of grave fiscal crisis in this country. That crisis, and its legacy, in many ways defined your presidency in your first term.
We will leave it to history to judge the decisions you made in that first term, but we want to voice our concern that a different legacy may haunt your second term.
We recall that when you were elected, you had promised to bring a divided nation together. In your first inaugural address, you said: “On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.” Later that year, you spoke at the University of Notre Dame, addressing some of the issues that divide us, most specifically abortion. You said: “Let’s honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion, and draft a sensible conscience clause, and make sure that all of our healthcare policies are grounded not only in sound science, but also in clear ethics . . .”
We will leave it to history to judge the decisions you made in that first term, but we want to voice our concern that a different legacy may haunt your second term.
We recall that when you were elected, you had promised to bring a divided nation together. In your first inaugural address, you said: “On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.” Later that year, you spoke at the University of Notre Dame, addressing some of the issues that divide us, most specifically abortion. You said: “Let’s honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion, and draft a sensible conscience clause, and make sure that all of our healthcare policies are grounded not only in sound science, but also in clear ethics . . .”
Digging for news in (some) inauguration rites and wrongs
Digging for news in (some) inauguration rites and wrongsMATTINGLY: Few paid much attention when a well-known liberal Episcopal priest, the Rev. Luis Leon, delivered the invocation at the 2005 inauguration of President George W. Bush, a somewhat traditional United Methodist. The goal, apparently, was to have a range of religious leaders take part even if their own political and theological views did not match those of the president or his supporters. However, Leon — drawing primarily from The Book of Common Prayer — elected to offer a prayer that did not contain material that clashed with the views of the president. Perhaps the most quotable passage came at the end of his prayer, as he prayed on behalf of Bush and his team
I'd like to visit Cardinal Mahony in prison
I'd Like to Visit Cardinal Mahony in Prison | Bad Catholic's Bingo HallZMIRAK: In light of the cold, documentary proof that has emerged of retired L.A. Cardinal Roger Mahony conspiring to hide pedophiles from the cops, I'd like to share the relevant section from The Bad Catholic's Guide to the Catechism. In a just world, mine would be one of the books Mahony would be reading in a very small cell at Alcatraz.
Why you need more margin in your life, and how to get it
Why you need more margin in your life | Sean Johnson :: Intentionally – Live on Purpose: When I was in college I was a TA for a class called Profiles in American Enterprise. Every week the CEO of some large corporation (Nissan USA, Flextronics, etc.) would come talk to the class, and the TAs would get to grab dinner with them after.
During dinner the subject of work/family balance often came up. And it wasn’t pretty. Divorce was common. Missing kid’s events or games was the norm. Men who prided themselves on their ability to move mountains got sheepish describing the fissures and faults in their home lives.
They had constructed their lives in a way that lacked margin.
During dinner the subject of work/family balance often came up. And it wasn’t pretty. Divorce was common. Missing kid’s events or games was the norm. Men who prided themselves on their ability to move mountains got sheepish describing the fissures and faults in their home lives.
They had constructed their lives in a way that lacked margin.
The Pope's new iPhone app went live today
The pope has a new App-titude � CNS BlogGLATZ: The Vatican launched a new “Pope App” on the eve of the release of the pope’s World Communications Day message, which will be dedicated to social networks as important spaces for evangelization.
The new app provides live streaming of papal events and video feeds from the Vatican’s six webcams. It sends out alerts and links to top stories coming out of the Vatican’s many news outlets as well as posts images and quotes from Pope Benedict XVI. The app is still in the 1.0 stage so as updated versions come out, there will be a search function for archived media, and links will eventually be shareable online.
The new app provides live streaming of papal events and video feeds from the Vatican’s six webcams. It sends out alerts and links to top stories coming out of the Vatican’s many news outlets as well as posts images and quotes from Pope Benedict XVI. The app is still in the 1.0 stage so as updated versions come out, there will be a search function for archived media, and links will eventually be shareable online.
Robert George warns of Catholic oppression over marriage
Robert George warns of Catholic oppression over marriage :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A Princeton law professor has predicted increasing persecution of Catholic teaching on sexuality, amid accusations by a New York scholar that such teaching creates a culture of rape.
In a Jan. 17 email to CNA, Professor Robert George of Princeton University warned of rising oppression against those who oppose a redefinition of marriage.
In a Jan. 17 email to CNA, Professor Robert George of Princeton University warned of rising oppression against those who oppose a redefinition of marriage.
5 old-school brands you didn't know still existed
5 Old-School Brands You Didn't Know Still Existed | BusinessNewsDaily.com: When news broke this week that one of the original developers of video games was filing for bankruptcy, it left many asking the same question: "Atari still exists?" Indeed. Founded in 1972 by Nolan Bushnell and Ted Dabney, Atari was responsible for creating a number of legendary video gamefranchises, including "Pong" and "Asteroids." In 1976, the company was sold to Warner Communications for a reported $28 million.
In the end, "Fringe" is about a father's love
In the End, It’s About a Father’s Love: Reflecting on “Fringe’s” Series Finale (& Why More Christians Didn’t Watch a Show with Such Relevant Christian Themes)ROSSI: Walter Bishop (John Noble) asked for a sign that God would forgive him. Specifically, he requested a white tulip because it didn’t grow during that time of year. Receiving one would be an unusual-enough occurrence to signal a miracle of sorts.
Why was Walter asking God’s forgiveness during this season two episode of the sci-fi TV series “Fringe?” As a formerly atheistic, ends-justifies-the-means scientist who worshiped his own intellect – once even declaring, “There’s only room for one God in this lab” – Walter finally acknowledged God’s existence after discovering an alternate universe in which his young son, Peter, didn’t die from a fatal disease.
Why was Walter asking God’s forgiveness during this season two episode of the sci-fi TV series “Fringe?” As a formerly atheistic, ends-justifies-the-means scientist who worshiped his own intellect – once even declaring, “There’s only room for one God in this lab” – Walter finally acknowledged God’s existence after discovering an alternate universe in which his young son, Peter, didn’t die from a fatal disease.
Here's what happens when you try to mail strange unwrapped objects (like a coconut or a helium balloon) through the post office
Postal Experiments - Neatorama: Having long been genuine admirers of the United States Postal Service (USPS), which gives amazingly reliable service especially compared with many other countries, our team of investigators decided to test the delivery limits of this immense system. We knew that an item, say, a saucepan, normally would be in a package because of USPS concerns of entanglement in their automated machinery. But what if the item were not wrapped? How patient are postal employees? How honest? How sentimental? In short, how eccentric a behavior on the part of the sender would still result in successful mail delivery?
Why my support for abortion was based on love, and lies...
Why My Support for Abortion Was Based on Love…and Lies |Blogs | NCRegister.comFULWILER: I continued to be vehemently pro-choice after college. Though my views became more moderate once I had a child of my own, I was still pro-choice. But as my husband and I began a religious search that led us to Christianity, we were increasingly put on the defensive about our views. One day my husband was re-evaluating his own pro-choice ideas, and he made a passing remark that startled me.
I used to believe all the usual myths about homelessness, until I walked into my first homeless shelter
The Homeless Reality | Catholic LaneFENELON: As I write, the weather station says that it’s 1° F, but it feels like -17°F. With the wind chill, it’s expected to drop as low as -30°F tonight. Tomorrow will more of the same. Even with the furnace chugging away, the perimeters of the house are cold. Upon passing by the windows and doors, one would swear they were wide open; sometimes as I go by, I check just to make sure. They’re closed. This is a pretty sturdy house, but in cold temps like this, nothing stops the drafts. My ceramic mug with the silicone lid keeps my tea hot for only a short time, so I drink it fast because I’m feeling too lazy to reheat it. I’m grateful for my lined hoodie and double-layered sweatpants, even though I still shiver a bit here and there, because I know there are folks out in this night wind without warm clothing. Although I dread the cold weather and complain about it every year, I know it could be so much worse, and for some folks, it is.
10 things you need to know today: January 23, 2013
10 things you need to know today: January 23, 2013 - The Week: The GOP offers a temporary debt-ceiling fix, Sloane Stephens beats Serena Williams, and more in our roundup of the stories that are making news and driving opinion
My 10 favorite movies from 2012
SDG's Top Films of 2012 | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: A few weeks before New Year’s, my impression was that 2012 hadn’t been a great year for movies. But, then, I had seen and reviewed fewer films than in previous years, due to my beginning diaconal studies.
Following a late sprint of catching up with some movies I’d missed, I went from wondering how to fill the slots in my “top films” lists to debating what to exclude (and that’s not including the daunting list of notable films I still haven’t seen).
Following a late sprint of catching up with some movies I’d missed, I went from wondering how to fill the slots in my “top films” lists to debating what to exclude (and that’s not including the daunting list of notable films I still haven’t seen).
Holy Father's Wednesday audience: "Do not be afraid to go against the grain to live your faith, and resist the temptation to conform"
Vatican Radio - Audience: Going against the grain like Abraham: In this Year of the Faith, I would like to start today to reflect with you on the Creed, the solemn profession of faith which accompanies our lives as believers. The Creed begins, "I believe in God." It is a fundamental affirmation, deceptively simple in its essence, but which opens the infinite world of our relationship with the Lord and with His mystery. Believing in God implies attachment to him, welcoming his Word and joyful obedience to His revelation. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us, "Faith is a personal act - the free response of the human person to the initiative of God who reveals himself". Being able to say that we believe in God is therefore both a gift and a commitment, it is divine grace and human responsibility, in an experience of dialogue with God who, out of love, "speaks to men as friends", speaks to us so that, in faith and with faith, we enter into communion with Him.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
A survey of worldwide Christian persecution in 2012
The Persecuted Church: 2012MARLIN: For some years, I have had the privilege of serving as Chairman of Aid to the Church in Need U.S.A., a Catholic charity for persecuted and other suffering Christians. In this position, I see plenty of data describing anti-Christian acts. Here’s a rundown of some 2012 incidents in Muslim nations that have received insufficient media attention
Jesus, His Church, and the “uns” of the world
Jesus, His Church and “the uns” � The Gospel in the Digital AgeDOLAN: George Higgins — the legendary “labor priest” from Chicago was, if I recall correctly, the first person I ever heard use the expression "uns", yet he attributed it to Dorothy Day. I borrowed it in my brief concluding remarks and prayer at last October’s Al Smith Dinner, as I praised God for the Church’s lookout for the uns — the un-documented, un-employed, un-housed, un-fed, un-healthy, un-born, un-wanted, misunderstood, un-justly treated — and prayed that our beloved country might work for a culture where that dreaded prefix — un — might be no longer.
10 reasons why the pro-life movement may, in time, carry the day
Pro-Life Rising, Forty Years after Roe v. Wade | First ThingsWEIGEL: Forty years ago, on Jan. 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down Roe v. Wade, one of the two worst decisions in its history. The court’s first mega-error, the 1857 decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford, declared an entire class of human beings beyond the protection of the laws; Roe v. Wade declared another class of human beings, the unborn, beyond legal protection. Dred Scott helped precipitate the Civil War; Roe v. Wade led to a vast expansion of the pro-life movement, the largest movement of social reform in American since the civil rights movement and the natural successor to that effort to repair the lingering damage done by Dred Scott.
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