Creative Production Specialist (Denver, CO) � CatholicJobs.com - Catholic Jobs Online: We're looking for a creative dynamo with video, audio, and graphic design production experience who wants to put those skills to work serving the Catholic Church in the New Evangelization.
This position requires a super high level of creativity and technical prowess in developing, producing, distributing, and marketing new media productions including audio and video podcasts, standalone video projects, and mobile and web-based applications, services, and websites. Individual must possess capacity for quickly identifying and learning new technologies and how best to deliver creative content using multiple delivery methods.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
You've gotta serve before you sit: A meditation on the Sunday Gospel...
You’ve Gotta Serve Before You Sit – A Meditation on the Gospel for the 22nd Sunday of the Year � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In the Gospel for this weekend’s Mass the Lord Jesus summons us to a deeper appreciation for what brings true honor, for makes a person truly great. As you may imagine, what the world thinks of as great and honorable is rather different that what God thinks and sees. Let’s look at this Gospel in three parts and discover it’s paradoxical vision.
Kiss this man!
Kiss This Man! | CatholicVote.orgSOLENNI: It’s what a friend of mine in college would say when she wanted to make a point. Yes, random.
But I thought of it as a I read Matt Walsh’s blog post, “Dear son, don’t let Robin Thicke be a lesson to you.” I don’t know Walsh, but his post is an absolute must-read.
In this debacle of commentary surrounding the recent Miley Cyrus MTV stunt, which is taking center stage as the world is about to erupt in World War III (duly noted by Walsh), the conversation has centered largely on Cyrus’s behavior, with no mention of Robin Thicke’s culpability.
But I thought of it as a I read Matt Walsh’s blog post, “Dear son, don’t let Robin Thicke be a lesson to you.” I don’t know Walsh, but his post is an absolute must-read.
In this debacle of commentary surrounding the recent Miley Cyrus MTV stunt, which is taking center stage as the world is about to erupt in World War III (duly noted by Walsh), the conversation has centered largely on Cyrus’s behavior, with no mention of Robin Thicke’s culpability.
Never underestimate the desire and need that those around you have for Jesus...
The Devout Life: "I have no one to put me into the pool!" Dying of thirst near the river of lifeGOORCHENKO: When I was in college, I spent most of the time in a fog of insecurity. My time at the small Catholic college I attended for a year was not entirely bereft of wonder. I look back, on one hand, with a sense of appreciation for the awe and reverence that the environment inspired.
Unfortunately, the beauty of the Church and the Presence therein was lost on me in a conscious way. I can't believe I did not spend more time seeking the catholicity, so to speak, of the campus. I know that it was a motivating factor in my choice to attend, but only in an unconscious way. I had no interest in attending a large, competitive college but intentionally sought a small school that wooed me with its quietude and beauty.
Unfortunately, the beauty of the Church and the Presence therein was lost on me in a conscious way. I can't believe I did not spend more time seeking the catholicity, so to speak, of the campus. I know that it was a motivating factor in my choice to attend, but only in an unconscious way. I had no interest in attending a large, competitive college but intentionally sought a small school that wooed me with its quietude and beauty.
Vatican makes it official: Pope Francis appoints Archbishop Pietro Parolin as new Secretary of State
Whispers in the Loggia: For Parolin, The Keys to the KingdomPALMO: The expected is now the reality – at Roman Noon this Saturday, the Pope named Archbishop Pietro Parolin as his Secretary of State on the retirement of Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone SDB.
There is, however, a hitch: while most Vatican appointments take immediate effect upon their announcement, the handover of Stato to Parolin won't occur until Tuesday, October 15th, to give the new holder of the Curia's oldest office sufficient time to return from his posting until now in Venezuela.
There is, however, a hitch: while most Vatican appointments take immediate effect upon their announcement, the handover of Stato to Parolin won't occur until Tuesday, October 15th, to give the new holder of the Curia's oldest office sufficient time to return from his posting until now in Venezuela.
Beer-brewing monks celebrate their first year of production...
New Advent: Beer-brewing monks celebrate their first year of production...: Even before retired Pope Benedict XVI set up a pontifical council for new evangelization and convoked a world Synod of Bishops on the theme, a new group of Benedictine monks was using Latin and liturgy to reach out to those whose faith was weak or nonexistent...
10 things you need to know today: August 31, 2013...
10 things you need to know today: August 31, 2013 - The Week: The White House makes its case for striking Syria, al Qaeda claims credit for violent attacks in Iraq, and more...
Miley Cyrus: Bellwether of cultural progress?
Miley Cyrus: Bellwether of Cultural Progress? | Crisis MagazineRUSE: Miley Cyrus’s gyrations on the Video Music Awards are hardly new. In fact, Miley is getting whupped by the black community for a white performer once more taking a cultural artifact from the black experience.
Some have gone so far as to call Miley racist for taking on-stage twerking into the white mainstream. You probably did not know that this kind of thing is a staple of hip-hop videos; you could even call it “old-school.”
What is twerking? I had to look it up myself. It’s that thing where a woman dancer bends over and jams her derrière into the privates of a male dancer and then grinds. Twerking.
And did you even know that Miley Cyrus had a six-inch tongue? A tongue like a weapon she has, one that she flapped all over the stage with the standard Satanic leer. She even had little pigtails like tiny horns.
Some have gone so far as to call Miley racist for taking on-stage twerking into the white mainstream. You probably did not know that this kind of thing is a staple of hip-hop videos; you could even call it “old-school.”
What is twerking? I had to look it up myself. It’s that thing where a woman dancer bends over and jams her derrière into the privates of a male dancer and then grinds. Twerking.
And did you even know that Miley Cyrus had a six-inch tongue? A tongue like a weapon she has, one that she flapped all over the stage with the standard Satanic leer. She even had little pigtails like tiny horns.
For Stato, Peter Taps Pietro
Whispers in the Loggia: Reports: For Stato, Peter Taps PietroPALMO: Given this month's traditional quiet on the beat, lest anyone forgot, August has meant these pages' traditional hiatus... with a Pope rearing in the gate, however, indications are we're off to an early launch for what's looking to be a wild fall cycle.
According to multiple Italian reports this Friday, Pope Francis is tipped to name Archbishop Pietro Parolin – the 58 year-old nuncio to Venezuela, who served as the Vatican's "deputy foreign minister" from 2002-09 – as his Secretary of State, the formal announcement expected in some quarters "as soon as tomorrow."
According to multiple Italian reports this Friday, Pope Francis is tipped to name Archbishop Pietro Parolin – the 58 year-old nuncio to Venezuela, who served as the Vatican's "deputy foreign minister" from 2002-09 – as his Secretary of State, the formal announcement expected in some quarters "as soon as tomorrow."
As expected, Pope Francis today named Italian Archbishop Pietro Parolin as his new secretary of state...
John Thavis | A new Vatican secretary of stateTHAVIS: The move is important primarily because it brings diplomacy front and center to a position that for the last eight years was held by a non-diplomat.
Archbishop Parolin, 58, is known around the Vatican as super-skilled in foreign affairs, having served in Vatican embassies (called nunciatures) in Mexico, Nigeria and, most recently, in Venezuela as apostolic nuncio. He is a graduate of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, the Vatican’s diplomatic school, where students are hand-picked.
Archbishop Parolin, 58, is known around the Vatican as super-skilled in foreign affairs, having served in Vatican embassies (called nunciatures) in Mexico, Nigeria and, most recently, in Venezuela as apostolic nuncio. He is a graduate of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, the Vatican’s diplomatic school, where students are hand-picked.
The choice of Parolin would appear to confirm at least two important points about the direction Francis intends to set...
Reports: Pope Francis to name new Secretary of State | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Multiple reports suggest Pope Francis intends to name 58-year-old Italian Archbishop Pietro Parolin to the key position of Secretary of State, traditionally the most important figure in the Vatican after the pope himself.
Although the pope is the head of state, the Secretary of State generally functions as the Vatican's head of government, both for internal church affairs and for diplomatic relations, making him, effectively, the prime minister.
Currently the papal nuncio, or ambassador, in Venezuela, Parolin is a career Vatican diplomat who's been involved in shaping Rome's response to virtually every key geopolitical challenge during the last two decades.
Although the pope is the head of state, the Secretary of State generally functions as the Vatican's head of government, both for internal church affairs and for diplomatic relations, making him, effectively, the prime minister.
Currently the papal nuncio, or ambassador, in Venezuela, Parolin is a career Vatican diplomat who's been involved in shaping Rome's response to virtually every key geopolitical challenge during the last two decades.
Friday, August 30, 2013
From my hidden faults acquit me O Lord...
From My Hidden Faults Acquit Me Oh Lord, As Seen in a Commercial � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: The video below humorously illustrates a biblical principle of our hidden faults. Indeed we all have sins and behaviors that are often clear to others but of which we are unaware. Indeed there are even deeper faults of which no one is aware except God himself who sees our innermost heart. Consider some of the following quotes...
What should we make of Pope Francis bowing when greeting people?
What should we make of Pope Francis bowing when greeting people? |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Word is racing around the Catholic blogosphere that Pope Francis recently bowed to Queen Rania of Jordan.
Is this yet another stunning break with tradition on the part of Pope Francis?
Has he overturned 2,000 years of tradition?
Is this one of the signs of the apocalypse?
Is it no big deal?
Let's look at the question...
Is this yet another stunning break with tradition on the part of Pope Francis?
Has he overturned 2,000 years of tradition?
Is this one of the signs of the apocalypse?
Is it no big deal?
Let's look at the question...
9 questions about Syria you were too embarrassed to ask
9 questions about Syria you were too embarrassed to ask: The United States and allies are preparing for a possibly imminent series of limited military strikes against Syria, the first direct U.S. intervention in the two-year civil war, in retaliation for President Bashar al-Assad’s suspected use of chemical weapons against civilians.
If you found the above sentence kind of confusing, or aren’t exactly sure why Syria is fighting a civil war, or even where Syria is located, then this is the article for you. What’s happening in Syria is really important, but it can also be confusing and difficult to follow even for those of us glued to it.
If you found the above sentence kind of confusing, or aren’t exactly sure why Syria is fighting a civil war, or even where Syria is located, then this is the article for you. What’s happening in Syria is really important, but it can also be confusing and difficult to follow even for those of us glued to it.
The hidden feature of gin and tonic that made it the British Empire's secret weapon...
Gin and tonic kept the British Empire healthy: The drink’s quinine powder was vital for stopping the spread of malaria. - Slate Magazine: The gin and tonic is having a moment. From Spain—where gin and tonics are practically the national drink—to our summer shores, the venerable G-and-T is everywhere. House-made tonic is on the menu in restaurants from coast to coast, and in many fine bars gin and tonics come in dozens of varieties, with special tonics and fruit garnishes matched to distinctive artisanal gins.
Of course, a lot of classic cocktails are enjoying a resurgence—part Mad Men, part the boom in distinctive small-batch spirits, and part the waning fad of faux speakeasies with handcrafted bitters and bartenders in arm garters chipping away at blocks of ice.
Of course, a lot of classic cocktails are enjoying a resurgence—part Mad Men, part the boom in distinctive small-batch spirits, and part the waning fad of faux speakeasies with handcrafted bitters and bartenders in arm garters chipping away at blocks of ice.
Legionary named as secretary general of the Vatican City government
Legionary named as secretary general of Vatican City government :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Aug. 30, Pope Francis appointed Father Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, a member of the Legionaries of Christ, to be the new secretary general of the Governorate of Vatican City State.
The position is the Vatican's number-two administrator, and was vacated last Saturday, Aug. 24, when Bishop Giuseppe Sciacca was transferred to the Apostolic Signatura.
The position is the Vatican's number-two administrator, and was vacated last Saturday, Aug. 24, when Bishop Giuseppe Sciacca was transferred to the Apostolic Signatura.
Hollywood is discovering the Bible again...
On Hollywood Finding the Bible AgainNICOLOSI: It always makes me laugh how mainstream media interviews take so long, but end up actually using so little of what has been said. I remember once doing an hour long on camera interview with ABC GMA and then having only about eight seconds of me end up in the finished piece. So many nerves and mental gymnastics spent for so little.
I did an email interview for The Christian Science Monitor earlier this week about the new trend of Biblical movies coming through the Hollywood studios. The finished piece is here.
I did an email interview for The Christian Science Monitor earlier this week about the new trend of Biblical movies coming through the Hollywood studios. The finished piece is here.
Reports: Pope Francis to name Archbishop Pietro Parolin new Secretary of State
Reports: Pope Francis to name new Secretary of State | National Catholic ReporterPALMO: Given this month's traditional quiet on the beat, lest anyone forgot, August has meant these pages' traditional hiatus... with a Pope rearing in the gate, however, multiple indications are we're off to an early launch for what's looking to be a wild fall cycle.
According to multiple Italian reports this Friday, Pope Francis is tipped to name Archbishop Pietro Parolin – the 58 year-old nuncio to Venezuela, who served as the Vatican's "deputy foreign minister" from 2002-09 – as his Secretary of State, the formal announcement expected in some quarters "as soon as tomorrow."
10 things you need to know today: August 30, 2013
10 things you need to know today: August 30, 2013 - The Week: Fast-food workers strike, Kim Jong Un's girlfriend is allegedly executed, and more...
God Loves you. He even likes you...
God Loves you. He even likes you! � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Every now and then we need to be reminded that God really loves us. Some of us struggle with this notion especially when we have sinned or experienced a shortcoming.
Recently the readings at Mass have had the heavy theme of warning us about death, judgment, heaven and hell. But of course these warnings are given by a God who loves us and wants to save us.
Recently the readings at Mass have had the heavy theme of warning us about death, judgment, heaven and hell. But of course these warnings are given by a God who loves us and wants to save us.
Even the foundations are being put through the wringer...
Vatican Diary / Even the Foundations Are Being Put Through the WringerMAGISTER: If from announcements one moves on to accomplishments, it must be said that the first steps taken by Pope Francis are firmly set in the path opened by his predecessor Benedict XVI.
The motu proprio of last August 8 for the prevention of and fight against money laundering, the financing of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, in fact, does nothing other than comply with what was established by Benedict XVI on December 30, 2010, with a previous motu proprio that instituted, for the first time in the Vatican, a Financial Information Authority, AIF, a decisive step toward harmonizing the activities of the Holy See with the international norms against illegal activities in the financial and monetary field.
The motu proprio of last August 8 for the prevention of and fight against money laundering, the financing of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, in fact, does nothing other than comply with what was established by Benedict XVI on December 30, 2010, with a previous motu proprio that instituted, for the first time in the Vatican, a Financial Information Authority, AIF, a decisive step toward harmonizing the activities of the Holy See with the international norms against illegal activities in the financial and monetary field.
In praise of Italy; a painful anniversary in India...
In praise of Italy; a painful anniversary in India | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: So far this year, beating up on Italy has become something of a fashion statement. Election of a Latin American outsider to the papacy has been hailed as a long-overdue break with the Vatican's Italian old guard, while right now political commentators around the world are aghast that former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi still has a following despite his conviction for tax fraud.
This week, however, I come to praise Italy, not to bury it.
This week, however, I come to praise Italy, not to bury it.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Does The New York Times hate Cardinal Dolan?
Does The New York Times hate Timothy Dolan?CONGER: On 30 July the Associated Press and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported that a Federal District Court had ruled that Cardinal Dolan and the Archdiocese of Milwaukee had acted properly — and morally — by shielding cemetery funds from creditors. The Journal Sentinel story entitled “In win for Milwaukee Archdiocese, judge shields cemetery funds from creditors” reported
Miley Cyrus, Syria and the head of Saint John the Baptist
Miley Cyrus, Syria and the Head of Saint John the BaptistSCALIA: The story just seems to speak to our times, doesn’t it? A young, poorly-educated girl worth, it is said, approximately $150 Million dollars, performs lewdly before a crowd of elites and the world loses its head over it, unable or unwilling to look away or to stop discussing it. Men in power, meanwhile, speak rash words and then hope they may be blurred and re-interpreted, or re-ordered.
All of that should offer us some reassurance that there is nothing new under the sun, that as it is, it ever was, and so what seems like an unprecedented time of disorder in the world is pretty much standard-operating-procedure for the human animals.
All of that should offer us some reassurance that there is nothing new under the sun, that as it is, it ever was, and so what seems like an unprecedented time of disorder in the world is pretty much standard-operating-procedure for the human animals.
The hero of the mighty musical struggle
The Hero of the Mighty Musical Struggle | Crisis MagazineTUCKER: Several years ago, I received a note from an older man who had been battling much of his life for good Church music, particularly Gregorian chant. He did this in terrible times following the Second Vatican Council when the cultural ethos warred against any settled liturgical forms. He had plenty of scars to show for his work, but not much progress emerged until recent days.
He wasn’t writing to congratulate me on my more recent work for chant. Instead, he wanted me to know that my writing generally got on his nerves. He noted my own optimism about the progress we were making to restore chant to its proper place in Mass, to publish vernacular settings of sacred music, to train up choirs.
He wasn’t writing to congratulate me on my more recent work for chant. Instead, he wanted me to know that my writing generally got on his nerves. He noted my own optimism about the progress we were making to restore chant to its proper place in Mass, to publish vernacular settings of sacred music, to train up choirs.
10 secret menu items from your favorite fast food restaurants...
10 secret menu items from fast food restaurants - The Week: In-N-Out Burger's "secret menu"� isn't so secret; in fact, they've posted it on their website. But in case you're not in the habit of surfing fast food sites, here's the skinny on the rather un-skinny items: ordering something "Animal Style"� at In-N-Out means you're going to get it with lettuce, tomato, a mustard-cooked beef patty, pickles, extra spread (it's sort of Thousand-Islandy) and grilled onions. You can even get your fries Animal Style. "Protein Style"� is a burger wrapped in a lettuce leaf instead of a bun. A Grilled Cheese is two slices of American cheese, lettuce, tomato and spread on a bun (grilled onions if you so choose). And you can get just about any combo of meat and cheese that you want if you order it like you're ordering lumber: 3x3 gets you three beef patties and three slices of cheese, 4x4 gets you four of each, and so on. It doesn't stop there. One gluttonous patron requested a 100x100 at a Las Vegas store a couple of years ago. One item not listed on the website secret menu: the Flying Dutchman, which is two slices of cheese sandwiched between two patties, hold the bun.
Jordanian king meets Pope Francis in Vatican; both say negotiation is "the only option" for Syria...
Pope Francis and King of Jordan say negotiation is “the only option” for Syria | CatholicHerald.co.uk: Dialogue and negotiations are “the only option for putting an end to the conflict and violence” in Syria, said Pope Francis and Jordan’s King Abdullah II.
As Western leaders expressed strong convictions that the Syrian government carried out a chemical weapons attack against its own citizens and vowed to take action, Pope Francis met King Abdullah and Queen Rania at the Vatican.
Jordan borders Syria and hosts hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees who have fled the fighting that began in March 2011 in an attempt to oust President Bashar Assad.
As Western leaders expressed strong convictions that the Syrian government carried out a chemical weapons attack against its own citizens and vowed to take action, Pope Francis met King Abdullah and Queen Rania at the Vatican.
Jordan borders Syria and hosts hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees who have fled the fighting that began in March 2011 in an attempt to oust President Bashar Assad.
If engagement with culture is really our goal, then more Catholics should be on Buzzfeed...
Buzzfeed as a Cultural Battleground | First Things: The hugely popular online meta-site Buzzfeed has spent the last few years solidifying a reputation as one of the most frequent web destinations for web-browsing Millennials. For those who aren’t familiar with the site’s distinctive blend of pop culture voyeurism, quirky videos, and obscure lists, clicking through the homepage can be more than a little overwhelming. Yet more than 25 million unique visitors consume its content each month, most of them coming via social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. Buzzfeed is currently ranked as roughly the 70th most popular website in the U.S. and is disproportionately visited by college-educated young people. It would be fair to say, then, that Buzzfeed represents a snapshot of the popular zeitgeist among the plugged-in mainstream of middle- to upper middle-class American youth.
The four signs of a dynamic Catholic...
The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic - FOCUS BlogCOTTER: General Patton once said, “A good plan violently executed today is far and away better than a perfect plan tomorrow.” As faithful Catholics, we often settle for dreaming of a more perfect plan and spend too much time tearing one another down rather than jumping on board together and trying to make a difference.� I highly recommend that you buy this book, read this book, and then try to put it in action. I’ll be trying to do so in my parish this year, which brings me to the next point.
Have the courage to trust in God...
The Courage to Trust in God | Dominicana BlogMATOUS: In today’s Gospel of the passion of Saint John the Baptist, we encounter a pitiable man: Herod.
On the one hand, even though John the Baptist rebuked Herod, Herod knew John “to be a righteous and holy man,” and “he liked to listen to him” (Mk 6:20). On the other hand, his wife, Herodias, wanted the man killed for denouncing their marriage. And so Herod compromises. Refusing to take a firm stance, he settles for the middle ground and has John arrested. It is a pitiable attempt to please Herodias while trying to keep his conscience clean.
On the one hand, even though John the Baptist rebuked Herod, Herod knew John “to be a righteous and holy man,” and “he liked to listen to him” (Mk 6:20). On the other hand, his wife, Herodias, wanted the man killed for denouncing their marriage. And so Herod compromises. Refusing to take a firm stance, he settles for the middle ground and has John arrested. It is a pitiable attempt to please Herodias while trying to keep his conscience clean.
10 reasons you should get to confession this weekend...
Ten Reasons You Should Get to Confession This Weekend |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: You think you don’t need to? You don’t need to have your soul refreshed, your courage strengthened, your dusty, crusty, venial sin-chapped hide soothed with the sweet balm of forgiveness? You don’t need to hear one more time that the Almighty Son of God came down from Heaven, was born, suffered, died, and rose again so that you, personally, could be saved? No thanks, you don’t neeeeed any of that right now? Really? Go to confession.
10 things you need to know today: August 29, 2013
10 things you need to know today: August 29, 2013 - The Week: World leaders debate military strikes on Syria, California enlists drones to fight a massive wildfire, and more...
Screwtape comes to lunch...
Screwtape Comes to LunchCOREN: I do not know Jody Bottum or why he wrote the article in Commonweal �that caused so much controversy earlier this week. But I do know something about the pressures put on journalists over homosexuality these days. And sometimes it can come in the form of quite diabolical threats – and temptations.�
In Canada, I am counted among high-profile social conservatives and Catholics in media, which probably says a great deal more about Canada than it does about me. I host a nightly television show, write a widely syndicated column, appear on mass-market radio twice a week, write regular columns for various Catholic newspapers, and my books are published by Random House. If I’ve suffered for my contrarian views, the suffering has been modest and endurable.
In Canada, I am counted among high-profile social conservatives and Catholics in media, which probably says a great deal more about Canada than it does about me. I host a nightly television show, write a widely syndicated column, appear on mass-market radio twice a week, write regular columns for various Catholic newspapers, and my books are published by Random House. If I’ve suffered for my contrarian views, the suffering has been modest and endurable.
A theist or an atheist?
A Theist or Atheist?LONGENECKER: Atheism is so mind-numbingly dull, and the worst kind of atheism is the self righteous, “We’re good people too you know” kind of atheism. “Oh, look at me. I’m working at the soup kitchen! �I campaigned to ban nuclear power! I have a ‘co-exist’ bumper sticker on my Prius.” They pretend to be revolutionaries, but to me they seem as dull as the McMansion next door and the usual suburban, fast food, shop at the mall American. At least the old fashioned atheists followed their logic and tried to wipe out everyone who didn’t agree with them. Stalin, Lenin, Mao and Pol Pot had teeth. The present day respectable atheists are about as interesting as yesterday’s oatmeal.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
When Neil Armstrong and Edmund Hillary took a trip to the North Pole
When Neil Armstrong and Edmund Hillary Took a Trip to the North Pole | Atlas Obscura: It sounds like the plot of a comic book — Sir Edmund Hillary and Neil Armstrong at the North Pole — but in fact it was one of those spectacular crossroads of history. In the lonely, desolate arctic, these two great explorers — who had never met before — got in a tiny bush plane and took off for the top of the Earth in 1985. Here's how it happened.
Love lifted me: A consideration of a profound insight from Origen...
Love Lifted Me. A Consideration of a Profound insight from Origen � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Back in Seminary days we would often study the question of authorship when it came to books of the Bible. Especially in modern times there are extensive debates about such things. I remember being annoyed at the question in most cases since I didn’t really care who the Holy Spirit gave the text to, in the end, God was the author.
I was also annoyed at some of the premises used to reject authorship. For example, it was widely held by modern scholars that St. Paul couldn’t possibly be the author of the the Pastoral Epistles
I was also annoyed at some of the premises used to reject authorship. For example, it was widely held by modern scholars that St. Paul couldn’t possibly be the author of the the Pastoral Epistles
This is how dads show love...
How Dads Show Love |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: My wife and I just had our 16th wedding anniversary. My kids were making fun of me about how often I underwhelm on these big days.
The card and the flowers aren't all that impressive, I guess. But my wife told them that love isn't just seen in cards and flowers.
Dads, she said, show their love sometimes in different ways.
When there's a noise in the night and Dad gets up and searches the house and checks all the windows and doors while everyone else sleeps because he can't sleep knowing that he didn't do everything they could to protect you, that's how he shows his love.
The card and the flowers aren't all that impressive, I guess. But my wife told them that love isn't just seen in cards and flowers.
Dads, she said, show their love sometimes in different ways.
When there's a noise in the night and Dad gets up and searches the house and checks all the windows and doors while everyone else sleeps because he can't sleep knowing that he didn't do everything they could to protect you, that's how he shows his love.
Here are 11 things to know and share about St. John the Baptist...
Who was John the Baptist? (11 things to know and share) |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: John the Baptist is a mysterious figure in the New Testament.
He was famous in his own day, even before he became the herald of Christ.
We even know about him from outside the New Testament.
His memorial is August 29th, so it’s an excellent time to catch up on him.
Here are 11 things to know and share...
He was famous in his own day, even before he became the herald of Christ.
We even know about him from outside the New Testament.
His memorial is August 29th, so it’s an excellent time to catch up on him.
Here are 11 things to know and share...
Rape victim consoled, encouraged by phone call from Pope Francis
Rape victim consoled, encouraged by call from Pope Francis :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): A 44-year-old woman from Argentina said that after writing a letter to Pope Francis telling him that she had been raped by a local police officer, the Pope called her to tell her, “You are not alone.”
“The Pope told me he receives thousands of letters each day, but that what I wrote moved him and touched his heart,” the woman said in an interview with the National University of Cordoba’s Canal 10 TV station.
“When I heard the Pope’s voice, it was like feeling the hand of God,” she said.
The woman explained that in her letter, she asked the Holy Father for help and explained that she had been raped on two occasions by a police officer, who later threatened her.
“The Pope told me he receives thousands of letters each day, but that what I wrote moved him and touched his heart,” the woman said in an interview with the National University of Cordoba’s Canal 10 TV station.
“When I heard the Pope’s voice, it was like feeling the hand of God,” she said.
The woman explained that in her letter, she asked the Holy Father for help and explained that she had been raped on two occasions by a police officer, who later threatened her.
Pope meets with 500 young pilgrims at St. Peter's Basilica, launches Augustinian general chapter with Mass
Pope meets with 500 young pilgrims at St. Peter's Basilica :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis met today at Saint Peter’s Basilica with around 500 youths from the central Italian diocese of Piacenza-Bobbio, who are currently on pilgrimage in Rome.
“This is a moment really of trepidation and joy, but also of deep faith, expressed through pure affection for the Pope,” said the Bishop Gianni Ambrosio of Piacenza just before the encounter.
The pilgrimage, which is taking place during the Year of Faith, has included several different stages and “has its culminating moment here in the meeting with the Holy Father in St. Peter’s Basilica,” he added in an interview with Vatican Radio.
“This is a moment really of trepidation and joy, but also of deep faith, expressed through pure affection for the Pope,” said the Bishop Gianni Ambrosio of Piacenza just before the encounter.
The pilgrimage, which is taking place during the Year of Faith, has included several different stages and “has its culminating moment here in the meeting with the Holy Father in St. Peter’s Basilica,” he added in an interview with Vatican Radio.
Picture of the Day: Cologne Cathedral during World War II
Picture of the Day: Cologne Cathedral During WWII �TwistedSifter: Seen here is an aerial black and white photo of the famous Cologne Cathedral during WWII. Kevin Trotman said he found the photo along with 19 others tucked inside a book that he bought for $1 at a library book sale.
Cologne Cathedral is a Catholic church in Cologne, Germany. It is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and is a World Heritage Site. It is also Germany’s most visited landmark, attracting an average of 20,000 people a day.
Cologne Cathedral is a Catholic church in Cologne, Germany. It is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and is a World Heritage Site. It is also Germany’s most visited landmark, attracting an average of 20,000 people a day.
I used to be a NARAL director. I helped organize the first abortion clinic in Oklahoma. In short, I helped kill people...
Atonement and the UndoableHAMILTON: For those of you who are reading this with baited breath, waiting for me to give you an answer, I’ll cut to the bottom line: You can’t. You can not atone for sins as black as the ones I’ve committed.
Can’t do it.
Nothing you can do, nothing you can say, nothing, but nothing, but nothing will ever make right again what you have done wrong.
But if, for reasons that confound all comprehending, God still loves you, even after what you’ve done; if He welcomes you home to Him with joy that defies your ability to find words to describe it, and if He then puts you back into the same place where you committed some of your worst sins in the past
Can’t do it.
Nothing you can do, nothing you can say, nothing, but nothing, but nothing will ever make right again what you have done wrong.
But if, for reasons that confound all comprehending, God still loves you, even after what you’ve done; if He welcomes you home to Him with joy that defies your ability to find words to describe it, and if He then puts you back into the same place where you committed some of your worst sins in the past
California "on the cusp" of greatly expanding abortion access; nurses may become abortionists
California Counters National Abortion Trend | TIME.com: Leave it to California to buck a national trend. As states across the U.S. enact new laws restricting abortion, Golden State lawmakers are on the cusp of passing legislation that could greatly expand access to the procedure by allowing nurse practitioners, physicians’ assistants and certified nurse midwives to perform first-trimester abortions. The bill passed the state senate Monday and is expected to be approved by the California assembly this week.
Angered by a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 20,000 protestors march on Indian parish
Angered by statue, 20,000 protestors march on Indian parish : News Headlines - Catholic Culture: In the eastern Indian state of Jharkand, 20,000 members of a tribe marched to a parish to protest against a statue of the Virgin Mary in tribal garb, according to a UCA News report.
Police protected the parish from the protestors.
“If the idol of Mother Mary is shown in the outfit of a tribal woman, then 100 years from now people will think that Mother Mary was a tribal from Jharkhand,” said the Sarna tribe’s head priest.
Police protected the parish from the protestors.
“If the idol of Mother Mary is shown in the outfit of a tribal woman, then 100 years from now people will think that Mother Mary was a tribal from Jharkhand,” said the Sarna tribe’s head priest.
If you could teleport to a random spot on the Earth's surface, what are the odds that you'll see signs of human life?
Signs of Life: In one way or another, humans have altered every square meter of this planet. But we'll start with the obvious: Roads, houses, and fields.
To get an idea of how often Borislav would stumble across such obvious structures, I loaded up a sample of random geographic coordinates[1] in Google Earth.
Most of the points were over open ocean, out of sight of any land. Once you get away from the major ports, the odds of having a ship in view are not that good, so I continued sampling until I had 50 land coordinates.
To get an idea of how often Borislav would stumble across such obvious structures, I loaded up a sample of random geographic coordinates[1] in Google Earth.
Most of the points were over open ocean, out of sight of any land. Once you get away from the major ports, the odds of having a ship in view are not that good, so I continued sampling until I had 50 land coordinates.
10 things you need to know today: August 28, 2013...
10 things you need to know today: August 28, 2013 - The Week: U.N. inspectors keep working in Syria as a military strike looms, hackers shut down The New York Times, and more...
Late have I loved You, O Beauty, ever ancient...
Te Deum laudamus!: St. Augustine: Late have I loved You, O Beauty, ever ancient...KORZENIEWSKI: In the new calendar, yesterday was the feast of St. Monica - the mother of St. Augustine; today, his feast day. �This is the second reading, taken from the Confessions of St. Augustine, a book I heartily encourage reading. It's a short book, and one not always easy to understand in the absence of historical context, but something well worth mining for gems like the one below.
There’s something in the air right now, and 'Forming Intentional Disciples' captures part of it...
Forming Intentional Disciples: My Review #LawnChairCatechism - SnoringScholar.comREINHARD: This has been one of the best handbooks I’ve read, and it’s going on the special shelf I have for books that not only have I marked up so much I can’t ever share them, but that I have to reread in large sections. No, it’s not more important than the Bible or the Catechism (different shelf), but this is a book for our times.
This is a book for those of us in the pews. It’s a book for those of us who’ve wondered why we bother, who hang onto whatever thread of “why” we’ve found (for me, it’s the Eucharist) and try to squelch the hunger for more.
This is a book for those of us in the pews. It’s a book for those of us who’ve wondered why we bother, who hang onto whatever thread of “why” we’ve found (for me, it’s the Eucharist) and try to squelch the hunger for more.
St. Augustine's mistress and son, and a lesson from his conversion...
St. Augustine's mistress and son, and a lesson from his conversion | The New Theological MovementERLENBUSH: The greatest of the Fathers of the Church, the Doctor of Grace, St. Augustine was not always so saintly. This is well known. Until his thirty-second year, the future Bishop of Hippo was not baptized nor did he live a life worthy of the true Faith.
St. Augustine, in the time before his conversion, had contracted an illicit relationship with an unnamed woman and, from this union, came a son. What became of these two – this mother and son – after St. Augustine’s conversion?
What brought about this great conversion in Augustine?
St. Augustine, in the time before his conversion, had contracted an illicit relationship with an unnamed woman and, from this union, came a son. What became of these two – this mother and son – after St. Augustine’s conversion?
What brought about this great conversion in Augustine?
The present tendency to replace the family and business with the nanny state is completely disordered...
The Freedom of the Family - Truth and Charity ForumMULLADY: There are a number of philosophical theories about the origin of human society. There are two extreme positions.
One is the Social Contract theory dear to Hobbes and Rousseau which maintains that in the beginning there was no society. Man was totally free. Because of evil, human beings banded together to form social contracts which like a plank to a shipwrecked man saves people from the evil tendencies of others. Society is simply a convenience in this theory, which one should be able to do without but necessity requires for survival.
One is the Social Contract theory dear to Hobbes and Rousseau which maintains that in the beginning there was no society. Man was totally free. Because of evil, human beings banded together to form social contracts which like a plank to a shipwrecked man saves people from the evil tendencies of others. Society is simply a convenience in this theory, which one should be able to do without but necessity requires for survival.
Funding for this essay has been provided by a grant from the Clare Boothe Luce Foundation...
What I Meant to Say: A Case for Same-Sex Marriage | Crisis Magazine: I had a friend named Jim Watson.� We used to play bluegrass music together on street corners in New York City.� When we did, Jim used to shout loudly to people passing by, using very crude and explicit language about his gay sexual practices.� That didn’t bother me.� I liked playing music with him. �(And I’m cool because of that.) But Jim became increasing anti-Catholic over time, showing intense and irrational hatred, first towards the hierarchy, and then towards all Catholics.� That didn’t bother me either; I still wanted to play old-timey Americana tunes with him.
Joseph Bottum trampled the fumie. Let's pray that not everyone does...
Trampling the Fumie | National Review OnlineJDFLYNN: Shusaku Endo’s 'Silence' has haunted me for years. The novel is the story of Rodrigues, a 17th-century Portuguese Jesuit sent to pagan Japan. Rodrigues is a tireless missionary, but the Japanese seem impervious to Christianity, and he makes little headway. Eventually Rodrigues is betrayed, and imprisoned — like all Japanese Christians, he is forced to choose between apostasy and death...
The universe was created for the sake of the Church...
The Universe Was Created for the Sake of the Church : Catholic StandMCLEOD: Antiquity was a perilous time, not unlike our own. The leaders of the Roman Empire, judging from the writings of the Church fathers, were suspicious of, and hostile towards, Christianity because they heard rumors that Christians were responsible for all manner of chaos and misfortune. The Roman Empire responded by harassing Christians, ordering many of them to be tortured and killed. This was despite the testimony of provincial governors, such as Pliny of Bythnia, who wrote to the Emperor Trajan that we were apparently a harmless group that gathered on fixed mornings, read scripture together, offered petitions, shared a meal, and chanted psalms invicem...
Vatican blasts West for planning war against Syria despite UN probe
PressTV - Vatican blasts West for planning war against Syria despite UN probe: The Vatican's official daily has criticized Western powers for escalating their war rhetoric against Syria despite an ongoing UN investigation into a recent alleged chemical attack near Damascus.
Pope to say opening Mass at meeting of Augustinian leaders
Pope to say opening Mass at meeting of Augustinian leaders :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On Aug. 28, Pope Francis will say Mass at the “chapter” of the Order of Saint Augustine, a meeting of the group's leaders which will elect a new head as well as set out their aims for the next six years.
The Pope will head the Eucharistic celebration at the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Campo Marzio to launch the chapter, which takes place every six years, lasts for about two to three weeks and will start this Wednesday, the feast of St. Augustine.
The Pope will head the Eucharistic celebration at the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Campo Marzio to launch the chapter, which takes place every six years, lasts for about two to three weeks and will start this Wednesday, the feast of St. Augustine.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Athletic clergy (like marathon man Bishop Thomas Paprocki) use sports for the good of souls...
Athletic Clergy Use Sports for the Good of Souls | Daily News | NCRegister.com: Some people think of the priesthood as the death of any enjoyment of life. No wife, no children, no sports, no fun. It’s all dreadfully serious business for priests, the thinking goes. Such thinking itself, according to notable clerics, must go.
“Certainly the priesthood is serious business. You can’t get any more serious than eternal salvation,” said Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Ill. “However, everyone needs to step away from their responsibilities from time to time in order to recreate, and the clergy are no different.”
“Certainly the priesthood is serious business. You can’t get any more serious than eternal salvation,” said Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Ill. “However, everyone needs to step away from their responsibilities from time to time in order to recreate, and the clergy are no different.”
We will never understand anything about Jesus unless we do this...
Jesus the PoliticianESOLEN: Recently, a secular Muslim named Reza Aslan – no relation to the Lion – has written a book called Zealot, claiming that the “real” Jesus was a failed Mohammed, a political insurrectionist.� The mass media, delighted to hear the news, seem unaware that the claim is old and tired and dull and absurd.�
We wait for the next New and Improved Shakespeare Scholar, who isn’t a Shakespeare scholar at all, to discover that the plays of Shakespeare were written by Somebody Else, even (in the case of the Earl of Oxford) somebody so committed to his craft that he actually wrote several plays after he had been buried in the cold cold ground.�
We wait for the next New and Improved Shakespeare Scholar, who isn’t a Shakespeare scholar at all, to discover that the plays of Shakespeare were written by Somebody Else, even (in the case of the Earl of Oxford) somebody so committed to his craft that he actually wrote several plays after he had been buried in the cold cold ground.�
Beauty and chant bring new life to a Benedictine monastery...
New Advent: Beauty and chant bring new life to a Benedictine monastery...: American Benedictine monks in Norcia, Italy, talk about their community's liturgical apostolate.
Lessons drawn from the Japanese martyrs
Lessons Drawn from the Japanese Martyrs | Crisis Magazine: Christianity came to Japan in 1549. The Land of the Rising Sun must have been ready to hear the good news when St Francis Xavier first set foot on its shores. By the time he left, just two years later, there were three thousand Japanese Christians. Over the next forty years that number increased to two hundred thousand. That was when the persecution began.
The complete guide to dealing with flies, ants, mosquitoes and garden pests...
The Complete Guide to Managing Your Summer Pest Problem: Summer brings fun, sun, and—unfortunately—lots of annoying bugs. If you’ve got the pests that come with the season, you don’t have to go through great lengths to rid your home of them. A few DIY methods and inexpensive tools can do the trick.
Living inside the Bible
Living Inside the Bible | First ThingsPOPE: The village of Pasierbiec is in the south of Poland, about thirty miles from the old royal capital of Kracow. Its church, the Basilica of Our Lady of Consolation, is full of votum gifts testifying to favors received through the intercession of the basilica's namesake. (The church itself reminds me of a comment Pope John Paul II's secretary, now-Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, once made when we were looking at a photo album of new churches in Nowa Huta, the mill-town built by Polish communists outside Cracow: “Troppo [Too much] Corbusier. . . .”)
10 fascinating skybridges around the world...
THE WORLD GEOGRAPHY: 10 Fascinating Skybridges: A skybridge is a type of pedway consisting of an enclosed or covered bridge between two buildings. This protects pedestrians from the weather. However, with the development of architecture and construction in the past few decades, the look and purpose of the skybridges are to some extent changed. So today we can see that in addition to the basic functions it perform, these unusual constructions serve, also, as a observation platforms, luxury hospitality facilities, and works of art.
The pace of Catholic renewal is increasing daily, and the Western Dominican Province is leading the way...
Dominicans at Work: The Achievements of America’s Western Province - Catholic CultureMIRUS: Since writing The Pride of St. Dominic: Muscular Renewal, I have been correctly taken to task for presenting the American Western province of the Dominican Order in a negative light. My essay tended to minimize previous problems in the Eastern province, which was the chief subject of the piece, while highlighting previous problems in the West. When I mentioned that the disparity was no longer so great, it sounded like I was damning with faint praise.
Ironman triathlete Brad Seng: "I want to use God's gift for His glory" (autoplay video)...
Colorado Triathlete Brad Seng Perseveres with Faith, Overcomes Triathlon ChallengesOneBillionStories.com: Colorado Triathlete Brad Seng resides in Boulder Colorado where he trains for triathlons as a professional athlete. Can you imagine swimming for 2.4 miles, biking for 112 miles, and just to make sure you do not have too much energy left over, run a full marathon of 26.2 miles? Those three events are run back to back to back (in 1 day!), and is exactly what Brad Seng trains for as a Triathlete in Colorado. The rigors and discipline create quite the training regimen. As seen in the video above, Boulder Colorado is one of the best places in the world to train for this type of athletic endeavor.
Consumer Reports: Which store brands meet (or beat) the name brands?
Store Brands | Private Label Foods - Consumer Reports: It's one thing to save money by buying store-brand paper towels or trash bags, but do you dare replace a name-brand favorite—Heinz ketchup, say—with a store brand? Sure. Our expert tasters judged 33 of 57 store-brand foods as good as or better than the national brand. (Check our supermarket buying guide for details on ways to save at the store.)
In categories such as ice cream, trail mix, mozzarella, mixed vegetables, and more, we found at least one store brand from the national grocers Costco, Kmart, Sam's Club, Target, Trader Joe's, Walmart, and Whole Foods that was equal in quality to the big name. Every store-brand jar of cashews was better than the national brand, for example; and among frozen shrimp, every store brand was at least as good. To be sure that our results weren't an anomaly, we tested two samples of each brand. (Note that products that are equal in quality don't necessarily taste the same: They may have different seasonings or a different mix of ingredients.)
In categories such as ice cream, trail mix, mozzarella, mixed vegetables, and more, we found at least one store brand from the national grocers Costco, Kmart, Sam's Club, Target, Trader Joe's, Walmart, and Whole Foods that was equal in quality to the big name. Every store-brand jar of cashews was better than the national brand, for example; and among frozen shrimp, every store brand was at least as good. To be sure that our results weren't an anomaly, we tested two samples of each brand. (Note that products that are equal in quality don't necessarily taste the same: They may have different seasonings or a different mix of ingredients.)
Does God really harden human hearts?
Does God Harden Human Hearts? � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: One of the more difficult Biblical themes to understand is the concept of God hardening the hearts and minds of certain human beings. The most memorable case is that of Pharaoh wherein, before sending Moses to him God said he would “harden Pharaoh’s heart” (Ex 4:21). But there are other instances where biblical texts speak of God as hardening the hearts of sinners, even from among his own people.
What are we to make of texts like these? How can God, who does no evil, be the source of a sinful mind or heart? Why would God do such a thing since he has said elsewhere
What are we to make of texts like these? How can God, who does no evil, be the source of a sinful mind or heart? Why would God do such a thing since he has said elsewhere
What has Hollywood offered in 2013? Very little...
So Long! Farewell! |Blogs | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: Labor Day isn’t until next week, but for all practical intents and purposes it’s time to say goodbye to the summer season. This past weekend Suz and I drove Sarah back to Christendom College — and this week I begin year 2 of my diaconal studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary.
And that means that, along with my studies, it’s time, alas, to resume my semi-hiatus from film reviewing. Over the summer I enjoyed a prolific streak, reviewing movies almost every week, in writing, in 60-second reviews and on “Reel Faith.”
And that means that, along with my studies, it’s time, alas, to resume my semi-hiatus from film reviewing. Over the summer I enjoyed a prolific streak, reviewing movies almost every week, in writing, in 60-second reviews and on “Reel Faith.”
I think there is a case to be made that atheism could be a mental illness...
Is Atheism A Mental Illness?POPCAK: Readers might be surprised to learn that most therapists can complete their training and not once have a meaningful discussion in class about what mental health or mental illness actually is.� We learn categories of illness and symptom checklists, but there is no generally accepted understanding of what actually constitutes a mental illness in the first place.� In order for Thomas’ assertion to be more than a slur against atheists, we need to look at what mental illness could actually be defined as.
Why did J.R.R. Tolkien dislike C.S. Lewis' Narnia stories?
Tolkien’s ‘No’ to NarniaLONGENECKER: If I had a time machine that could not only set me down not only in a particular date, but a particular place, I’d choose the Eagle and Child pub in Oxford on a Tuesday night in 1950 when C.S.Lewis was reading selections from his Chronicles of Narnia. He’d be there before a roaring fire with Tolkien and the other Inklings who gathered at the Bird and Baby, to drink beer, smoke pipes and read excerpts from their work. Tolkien would listen quietly, then pitch in with his intelligent and well-aimed criticisms.
Why should you bless your kids? There are several reasons...
Blessing Your Blessings |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: This morning, my second-oldest kid went off to her first day of high school.� It's only a half day and I was only half awake, so I forgot that I had meant to give her a blessing before she left the house.� (Hey, just because my "end-of-summer,-do-ALL-the-things" freakout is over, that doesn't mean it's too early for my "beginning-of-school,-do-ALL-the-things" freakout to begin.)
Why bless your kids?� There are several reasons.� First is that parents have a unique spiritual authority to ask God's blessing for the kids, so why would you not take advantage of that?� It's also a pleasant, intimate, and very easy way to show your kids that you love them.� And it does something else:� it reminds us that a big part of our job as parents is letting our kids go.
Why bless your kids?� There are several reasons.� First is that parents have a unique spiritual authority to ask God's blessing for the kids, so why would you not take advantage of that?� It's also a pleasant, intimate, and very easy way to show your kids that you love them.� And it does something else:� it reminds us that a big part of our job as parents is letting our kids go.
10 things you need to know today: August 27, 2013
10 things you need to know today: August 27, 2013 - The Week: Kerry steps up U.S. criticism of Syria, Lew warns the government will hit its borrowing limit soon, and more...
Monday, August 26, 2013
Dominican Sisters, Mater Eucharistiae, and awesomeness
Dominican Sisters, Mater Eucharistiae, and Awesomeness : The Integrated Catholic LifeREINHARD: I used to think it must be so boooooorrrrrriiiinnnnng to be a religious sister. I mean, what would you do for fun? Pray?
I’ve come a long way since those days. Now, I struggle not to see religious life as so much better and holier than the messy chaos my life sometimes seems to embody hourly. And I try not to pine for the schedule and perfection that I’m sure exists only in my mind and not in any community of real people.
I’ve had a fascination with sisters and nuns (because yes, there is a difference) since my childhood days of belting out the songs to The Sound of Music with my aunt. I’ve never done much with that fascination, aside from keeping a running prayer list and trying to balance �treating these wonderful women as normal people without going all gaga-weird on them.
I’ve come a long way since those days. Now, I struggle not to see religious life as so much better and holier than the messy chaos my life sometimes seems to embody hourly. And I try not to pine for the schedule and perfection that I’m sure exists only in my mind and not in any community of real people.
I’ve had a fascination with sisters and nuns (because yes, there is a difference) since my childhood days of belting out the songs to The Sound of Music with my aunt. I’ve never done much with that fascination, aside from keeping a running prayer list and trying to balance �treating these wonderful women as normal people without going all gaga-weird on them.
Mysteries are meant to be lived, not solved...
Don’t Just Solve Mysteries. Live them. A Meditation on the Christian Meaning of Mystery � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In our modern culture we tend to use the word “mystery” differently than the Christian antiquity to which the Church is heir. We have discussed this notion on this blog before. In this brief post I’d like to review that, and add a new insight I heard recently from Fr. Francis Martin.
As we have noted before, our modern culture tends to think of a mystery as something to be solved, and the failure to resolve it is considered a negative outcome. So, in the typical mystery novel some event, usually a crime, takes place, and it is the job of our hero to uncover cause of the problem, or the perpetrator of the crime. If he does not, he is a failure. And frankly, if word got out that, in a certain mystery movie, the mystery was not solved, there would be poor reviews and low attendance. Imagine in the series “House MD” if Dr. House routinely failed to “solve” the medical mystery. Ratings would drop rather fast.
As we have noted before, our modern culture tends to think of a mystery as something to be solved, and the failure to resolve it is considered a negative outcome. So, in the typical mystery novel some event, usually a crime, takes place, and it is the job of our hero to uncover cause of the problem, or the perpetrator of the crime. If he does not, he is a failure. And frankly, if word got out that, in a certain mystery movie, the mystery was not solved, there would be poor reviews and low attendance. Imagine in the series “House MD” if Dr. House routinely failed to “solve” the medical mystery. Ratings would drop rather fast.
No, Pope Benedict didn't hear voices
No, Pope Benedict didn't hear voices - Catholic CultureLAWLER: Scores of media outlets featured the words attributed to Benedict—“God told me to”—in dramatic headlines, as if the retired Pontiff had reported a private vision. It’s true that the quoted phrase lends itself to that interpretation, but remember that we are dealing not with a direct quote but with a second-hand account that was then translated into a different language. The full story, as it was first reported by the Zenit news agency, does not suggest that the Pope heard voices. It suggests, rather, that he prayed intently about the prospect of resignation, and in his prayer became convinced that it was God’s will. He prayed, then, and perceived an answer to his prayer. For anyone familiar with prayer, that’s not an uncommon phenomenon.
Archbishop Georg Gänswein, secretary to Pope Benedict, says resignation was not prompted by 'mystical experience'
CNS STORY: Retire pope's secretary says 'mystical experience' story is untrueWOODEN: Archbishop Georg Ganswein, retired Pope Benedict XVI's longtime personal secretary, said a story about the pope resigning after a "mystical experience" was completely invented.
"It was invented from alpha to omega," the archbishop said Aug. 24 in an interview on Italy's Canale 5 television news. "There is nothing true in the article."
In a report Aug. 19, the Italian service of Zenit, a Catholic news agency, said someone who had visited Pope Benedict "a few weeks ago" had asked him why he resigned. "God told me to," the retired pope was quoted as responding before "immediately clarifying that it was not any kind of apparition of phenomenon of that kind, but rather 'a mystical experience' in which the Lord gave rise in his heart to an 'absolute desire' to remain alone with him in prayer."
"It was invented from alpha to omega," the archbishop said Aug. 24 in an interview on Italy's Canale 5 television news. "There is nothing true in the article."
In a report Aug. 19, the Italian service of Zenit, a Catholic news agency, said someone who had visited Pope Benedict "a few weeks ago" had asked him why he resigned. "God told me to," the retired pope was quoted as responding before "immediately clarifying that it was not any kind of apparition of phenomenon of that kind, but rather 'a mystical experience' in which the Lord gave rise in his heart to an 'absolute desire' to remain alone with him in prayer."
How to avoid being rude (according to 100-year-old etiquette rules)...
How to avoid being rude (according to 100-year-old etiquette rules) - The Week: According to etiquette books of the past, it was pretty easy to be offensive. To show you were of good breeding, you had to adhere to strict parameters surrounding speech, behavior, dress, and eating. Some of those mores were so detailed and odd that they are absolutely foreign to us now. At any rate, by the standards of 100 years ago, you are an incredibly rude person.
St. Augustine and the joy of repentance
The Joy of RepentanceLONGENECKER: We celebrate this week the life of that most famous of sinner-saints, St Augustine, who said, “Lord make me chaste, but not yet.” Augustine’s lust for love and his desire for God are tied together with his passionate approach to life. “Love is the beauty of the soul!” he cries.
What Augustine teaches us is the practical joy of repentance. Repentance is simply the heart felt realization that one is a sinner. So often this realization is linked with guilt–as if feeling guilt is a bad thing. But guilt is simply the pain one feels at the realization of the deep wound of sin. If I have cancer and feel pain a good doctor tells me I have cancer and I need an operation and that may cause me more pain, but it also brings me to face reality and brings me to the point of a possible cure. The pain was therefore a necessary evil. So guilt reminds me of the cancer of sin in my life and that I need the radical surgery from Doctor Jesus to be healed.
What Augustine teaches us is the practical joy of repentance. Repentance is simply the heart felt realization that one is a sinner. So often this realization is linked with guilt–as if feeling guilt is a bad thing. But guilt is simply the pain one feels at the realization of the deep wound of sin. If I have cancer and feel pain a good doctor tells me I have cancer and I need an operation and that may cause me more pain, but it also brings me to face reality and brings me to the point of a possible cure. The pain was therefore a necessary evil. So guilt reminds me of the cancer of sin in my life and that I need the radical surgery from Doctor Jesus to be healed.
The elite project of gay marriage
The Elite Project of Gay Marriage | First ThingsRENO: Same sex marriage has become the issue of our time. Michael Kinsley summed the situation nicely: “You may be in favor of raising taxes on the rich, increasing support for the poor, nurturing the planet, and repealing Section 14(b) of the Taft-Hartley Act, but if you don’t support gay marriage, you’re out of the club.”
How did this come to pass? There’s no easy answer, which is not surprising. Same sex marriage is the issue because lots of different interests, concerns, and trends converge on it.
How did this come to pass? There’s no easy answer, which is not surprising. Same sex marriage is the issue because lots of different interests, concerns, and trends converge on it.
What I Saw in Roma, Texas
What I Saw in Roma, TexasSHEA: So a week or so ago, I was asked down to Roma, Texas by Fr. James Erving, OMI.� His parish was putting on a conference for the youth he serves there in Starr County (the poorest county in Texas).� Fr. Erving is a gung ho priest who loves his people fiercely.� His people are Latino Catholics who love Jesus and the Church deeply and who celebrate that love joyously.� Being around them was a tonic for the soul.
I got into Roma late Friday afternoon after a night of no sleep.� So I was pretty exhausted Friday night.� But I was able to get in a very fruitful confession and make a bit of headway in the whole “I am a sinful jerk” battle.� It made Saturday a much happier experience than it might have otherwise�been since I found myself among people whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.� Sleep also helped.
I got into Roma late Friday afternoon after a night of no sleep.� So I was pretty exhausted Friday night.� But I was able to get in a very fruitful confession and make a bit of headway in the whole “I am a sinful jerk” battle.� It made Saturday a much happier experience than it might have otherwise�been since I found myself among people whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.� Sleep also helped.
Youth ministry is an important part of the Church's saving mission...
Fr. Robert Barron's Word On Fire - Church: The Necessity of Youth MinistryFERENCE: Last week one of my priest colleagues here at the seminary emailed me about a new essay on youth ministry. The piece was entitled, “The Problem With Youth Ministry,” written by the young, brilliant, prolific, and envy-inducing, Marc Barnes over at Bad Catholic. Barnes is almost half my age, yet I look up to him. He knows his faith, he gets the culture, he writes very well, and he’s funny.
Barnes’ essay on the problem with youth ministry is provocative, which is evidenced by the many comments, likes, and re-posts of this particular work. His thesis is that, unlike the family and the apostolic priesthood, which maintain a natural authority to proclaim the Gospel to young people, youth ministers have no natural authority to do so. Barnes argues, “Youth ministry as a primary catechetical and evangelical tool only exists as a necessity if the family has failed.” Youth ministers, according to Barnes, are spiritual band-aids that are doing important work, but in a perfect Catholic world, there would be no need for youth ministers or for youth ministry as we know it.
Barnes’ essay on the problem with youth ministry is provocative, which is evidenced by the many comments, likes, and re-posts of this particular work. His thesis is that, unlike the family and the apostolic priesthood, which maintain a natural authority to proclaim the Gospel to young people, youth ministers have no natural authority to do so. Barnes argues, “Youth ministry as a primary catechetical and evangelical tool only exists as a necessity if the family has failed.” Youth ministers, according to Barnes, are spiritual band-aids that are doing important work, but in a perfect Catholic world, there would be no need for youth ministers or for youth ministry as we know it.
Pope Francis: Christianity is a way of life, not a label
Pope Francis: Christianity is a way of life, not a label :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In his Sunday Angelus audience, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of truly living a Christian life rather than letting it become a superficial label.
“In the gospel, Jesus tells us that to be a Christian is not to have a ‘label’ but to live and testify to faith in prayer, in works of charity, in the promotion of justice, in doing good,” Pope Francis told the audience gathered in St. Peter’s Square Aug. 25.
Jesus himself is the way to a truly lived faith, explained the Pope.�
“In the gospel, Jesus tells us that to be a Christian is not to have a ‘label’ but to live and testify to faith in prayer, in works of charity, in the promotion of justice, in doing good,” Pope Francis told the audience gathered in St. Peter’s Square Aug. 25.
Jesus himself is the way to a truly lived faith, explained the Pope.�
Against the senseless destruction of churches...
Against the Senseless Destruction of Churches | Crisis MagazineESOLEN: Last year, L’Eglise de Notre Dame de l’Assumption, in the old fishing port of Arichat, Nova Scotia, celebrated its 175th anniversary.� Its twin spires overlook the bay where John Paul Jones, to Americans a hero but to loyal Canadians a pirate and a traitor, once trained his guns, and sure enough, near the corner of the cemetery beside the church, there stands a big cannon pointed at the water.� No pirate will be sailing into Arichat Bay. �Americans and Canadians are fast friends.� Yet that doesn’t mean that the church will see its two hundredth year. �It’s not pirates we must fear, but the termites of resignation.
The Bible is clear: When Jesus told us to eat His Body, He wasn't speaking metaphorically...
A Bread of Life *Analogy* is Downright Unreasonable | Truth & Charity The Intersection of Faith & LifeANDREWSCIBA: I’ve posed this suggestion to several non-Catholics as well as to a couple doubting Catholics – what would Jesus have said to establish Himself as the Eucharist in the form of bread and wine if not exactly what he said in John 6? – and have always come up empty with an adequate response, only emphasizing Christ’s thorough and obvious Institution of the Eucharist as the Catholic Church holds it.
Two reasons your boyfriend will never be your everything
Two reasons your boyfriend will never be your everything - FOCUS BlogLISACOTTER: Asking a guy to understand you just like your female friends understand you is like asking a fashionista to shop at only the same stores as the Duck Dynasty guys. She’s a fashionista, so she can probably pull it off, but if you let her hit up her favorite spots, she’ll do much better. In a similar way, your man doesn’t always hit the nail on the head when you’re trying to relate with him because the way you relate is not always the way he relates. In most situations he’s not doing this because he’s a jerk who doesn’t want to understand you, or a lazy bum who just doesn’t care, it’s because, try as he may, he can’t truly, fully understand you as a woman. (P.S. If he really is a jerk and a lazy bum, you should dump him.)
Husbands see what wives reveal
The Catholic WifeKATIESCIBA: What do we reveal to our husbands? Sweetness or bitterness? Mercy or impatience? Do we act as conduits of God’s love or do we stand in the way of it? Most know St. Elizabeth by her famed love for the poor, but I first knew her by her deep affection for her husband, King Louis IV; and it was her story and her active devotion to him that shot a burst of enthusiasm for what married life could be in my newly-engaged heart all those years ago. I want so much to emulate Elizabeth in being a sweet, charming wife for Andrew. She dressed in her best and brightest when her husband was home and prayed for the grace to withstand her love for him, which she offered with reckless abandon.
Ricca and Chaouqui, two enemies in the house...
Ricca and Chaouqui, Two Enemies in the HouseMAGISTER: More than two months have passed since the unhappy appointment of Monsignor Battista Ricca as “prelate” of the Institute for Works of Religion and more than a month since that, no less unhappy, of Francesca Immacolata Chaouqui (see photo) as a member of the commission for the reorganization of the financial-administrative Vatican offices.
Both of these appointments were made by Pope Francis, the first through his own highly personal decision.
And for both of them, immediately afterward, there came to light grave counter-indications about which the pope was initially in the dark.
Both of these appointments were made by Pope Francis, the first through his own highly personal decision.
And for both of them, immediately afterward, there came to light grave counter-indications about which the pope was initially in the dark.
The horse I rode in on rides back out...
The Horse I Rode In On Rides Back Out |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: Sure, there are people whose words and deeds contradict each other, not because they are decent people locked in combat with their disordered appetites, weakened will, and darkened intellect, but because, as you note, they are are malicious people covering their malice with a veneer of seeming virtue.� So we see people all through the gospel asking Jesus questions, not out of an honest interest in the truth, but in order to catch him in his words and find some way to condemn him.
10 things you need to know today: August 26, 2013
10 things you need to know today: August 26, 2013 - The Week: Inspectors head to the site of Syria's chemical attack, Miley Cyrus offers a bizarre VMA performance, and more
Sunday, August 25, 2013
The history of today's best-selling and accidental toys...
The History Of Today's Best-Selling And Accidental Toys: Remember the days when one of life’s biggest dilemmas centered around the decision of which high-pitched and humanized cartoon character you would watch on Saturday morning, and true happiness could be derived from thrusting a wobbly spring down the stairs? If it weren’t for the clumsiness of one naval engineer, our childhoods may very well have lacked those sweet, metallic memories.
Cardinal Ratzinger's students address how to overcome the eclipse of God...
MondayVatican – Vatican � The Eclipse of God. Ratzinger’s Students to Address How to Overcome it. | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: For the first time since 1977, Pope Benedict XVI will not take part in the annual meeting of his former students. To them, he explained that �as Pope Emeritus, I intended not to take part in public events.� And so he will not be at the Ratzinger’s Schulerkreis meeting. The gathering (to be held Aug 29 – Sep. 2) will take place without the beloved professor.
However, the beloved professor did not abandon them. He showed them the way. Fr. Stephan Horn, the president of the Schuelerkreis, met with Benedict at the beginning of June at the Vatican monastery where the Pope Emeritus resides. Pope Benedict confirmed to him that he would not take part in the Schulerkreis gathering. But he chose the theme for the meeting: �The question of God against the background of secularization.� He also chose the guest speaker: Remi Brague, a French theologian awarded last year with the Ratzinger Prize for Theology.
However, the beloved professor did not abandon them. He showed them the way. Fr. Stephan Horn, the president of the Schuelerkreis, met with Benedict at the beginning of June at the Vatican monastery where the Pope Emeritus resides. Pope Benedict confirmed to him that he would not take part in the Schulerkreis gathering. But he chose the theme for the meeting: �The question of God against the background of secularization.� He also chose the guest speaker: Remi Brague, a French theologian awarded last year with the Ratzinger Prize for Theology.
There seems to be a lack of sacramental fruitfulness in the lives of many Catholics...
Disputations: While no one would intentionally ignore the disposition of the one in sacramental preparation -- I use "no one" in a rhetorical sense here; empirically, people are capable of anything -- it's not only inadequate to argue that the sacrament itself will make up for what is lacking in the recipient, it's flat-out contrary to what the Church teaches. If "Ex opere operato" is how a given sacramental preparation program addresses the question of subjective disposition, then, objectively, that sacramental preparation program doesn't address the question of subjective disposition.
I know it sounds weird, but it's true: Sometimes I have to remember to treat those I love like strangers...
Treating Those We Love Like Strangers |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: I was at the bookstore recently with my kids. The little ones were checking out the Legos while the older girls were lounging like hippies on beanbag chairs reading books we hadn’t bought.
I noticed a mother was sitting nearby in the crowded café with her daughter, who seemed about thirteen or fourteen years old. The mother seemed a bit upset and after an intensely whispered conversation the girl walked off past me to go find a book she needed for school, obviously upset.
There was a young woman about 19 sitting at an adjacent table who asked out loud to everybody in particular if they were having trouble connecting to the wi-fi. The mother of the thirteen year old got up and showed wonderful patience and kindness trying to help the young woman log on to the internet. It was funny because it was a role reversal of sorts with the forty something woman helping the college aged student. She finally got her on the internet. It was a nice thing to witness.
I noticed a mother was sitting nearby in the crowded café with her daughter, who seemed about thirteen or fourteen years old. The mother seemed a bit upset and after an intensely whispered conversation the girl walked off past me to go find a book she needed for school, obviously upset.
There was a young woman about 19 sitting at an adjacent table who asked out loud to everybody in particular if they were having trouble connecting to the wi-fi. The mother of the thirteen year old got up and showed wonderful patience and kindness trying to help the young woman log on to the internet. It was funny because it was a role reversal of sorts with the forty something woman helping the college aged student. She finally got her on the internet. It was a nice thing to witness.
Liturgy at the end of an era...
Liturgy at the End of Era – Revisited � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Some years ago (2009) I published on this blog a recollection of my youth in those critical years of the changeover from the “old Mass” to the “new” Mass. And, while I recall some puzzlement in those years about the changes and how they violated my training, I do not recall big protests from adults to the changes.
And while many people today who prefer the Traditional Latin Mass speak of the changes forced on us after the Council, I do not recall big protests, or objections as the changes came in swiftly in those years from about 1965 -1975. Granted, I was a pre-teen kid. But I do not recall protestors outside with signs, any even any vocal objections, that reached me at the time.
And while many people today who prefer the Traditional Latin Mass speak of the changes forced on us after the Council, I do not recall big protests, or objections as the changes came in swiftly in those years from about 1965 -1975. Granted, I was a pre-teen kid. But I do not recall protestors outside with signs, any even any vocal objections, that reached me at the time.
The most breathtaking video of the weather you'll watch this week...
The Most Breathtaking Video of the Weather You’ll Watch This Week | Roots of Unity, Scientific American Blog Network: Last Monday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released a video of the past 10 years of weather in the Americas. The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite GOES-12, which had monitored the weather in North and South America since April 2003, was retired on August 16. This video shows one photo a day from the time the satellite was operating.
Silence is golden. But when you're not listening for the voice of God, it can drive you crazy...
Silence is golden. It can also drive you crazy. - The Week: It's nearly impossible to find a state of true silence. But some people go out of their way to find it.
Consider this 2012 New York Times article, called "Whisper of the Wild," about a group of scientists led by Davyd Betchkal. In 2006, Betchkal decided to trudge deep into the woods in an attempt to record 60 days worth of pure silence, or more correctly, natural sound. The team sought a quiet undisturbed by the chafing of nylon snow pants, the crunch of snow underfoot, or even plane engines miles away. They wanted a silence so pure that it proved quite elusive. By the time the article was published six years later, the team had amassed a mere 36 days worth of silent recordings — barely half of the original goal.
Consider this 2012 New York Times article, called "Whisper of the Wild," about a group of scientists led by Davyd Betchkal. In 2006, Betchkal decided to trudge deep into the woods in an attempt to record 60 days worth of pure silence, or more correctly, natural sound. The team sought a quiet undisturbed by the chafing of nylon snow pants, the crunch of snow underfoot, or even plane engines miles away. They wanted a silence so pure that it proved quite elusive. By the time the article was published six years later, the team had amassed a mere 36 days worth of silent recordings — barely half of the original goal.
10 reasons why you're surrounded by bad drivers...
Bad driving: what are we thinking? | Science | theguardian.com: Last week the UK government announced a crackdown on unsafe driving. From now on, those of us spotted tailgating or lane hogging will face on-the-spot fines and three penalty points. As road safety minister Stephen Hammond said: "Careless driving puts innocent people's lives at risk. That is why we have made it easier for the police to tackle problem drivers."
The Lord will gather the nations, but the gate is narrow...
The LORD Will Gather The Nations, But The Gate Is NarrowETIENNE: I’m in Riverton, Wyoming this weekend for a formal visitation to St. Margaret parish.� There is nothing like being with the People of God, listening to their lived experience of being Church, celebrating the sacraments and preaching the Word of God.� These realities all come together for greater clarity regarding my role as bishop, and our common work in fulfilling the mission of the Church.
The readings this weekend make two things clear.� First, the Prophet Isaiah gives expression to God’s desire to gather the nations of every language.� He will send his messengers to all the nations to proclaim his glory.� (Isaiah 66:18-21)� Second, Jesus when asked “will only a few be saved?” responds that we are to try to enter through the narrow gate.� He also says that “many will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.”
The readings this weekend make two things clear.� First, the Prophet Isaiah gives expression to God’s desire to gather the nations of every language.� He will send his messengers to all the nations to proclaim his glory.� (Isaiah 66:18-21)� Second, Jesus when asked “will only a few be saved?” responds that we are to try to enter through the narrow gate.� He also says that “many will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.”
Gateway to Life: A reflection on the Sunday readings...
Gateway to Life: Scott Hahn Reflects on the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time | St. Paul Center For Biblical TheologyHAHN: Jesus doesn’t answer the question put to Him in this Sunday’s Gospel. It profits us nothing to speculate on how many will be saved. What we need to know is what He tells us today - how to enter into salvation and how urgent it is to strive now, before the Master closes the door.
Jesus is “the narrow gate,” the only way of salvation, the path by which all must travel to enter the kingdom of the Father
Jesus is “the narrow gate,” the only way of salvation, the path by which all must travel to enter the kingdom of the Father
Abandon hope all ye who enter here...
Abandon hope all ye who enter here � Neal Obstat Theological OpiningNEAL: This past year, a man shared at a parish evening adult faith event the story of his conversion from a life of what he called “serial wreckage” to a life of hope in Christ. Among other insights, he said a powerful thing that I share here in sum...
Pope's Sunday Angelus: "Jesus is waiting to embrace you, to pardon you. Have the courage to enter through His gate..."
Pope Francis: You are not excluded!: In his Angelus address on Sunday, Pope Francis spoke about the words of Jesus from the day’s Gospel: “Strive to enter through the narrow gate.”
The preemptive surrender of Jody Bottum
The Preemptive Surrender of Jody BottumROYAL: Joseph Bottum, sometime friend of several of us at TCT, published a painfully long, painfully rambling article Friday in the liberal Catholic magazine Commonweal saying that the Church is wasting its time – is even harming itself – opposing gay marriage. He was fired as editor-in-chief of First Things three years ago, years in which he has mostly been living in his native South Dakota, where one hoped he was growing in wisdom and grace. But that is not our subject today.
10 things you need to know today: August 25, 2013...
10 things you need to know today: August 25, 2013 - The Week: Massive wildfires rage through northern California, Mubarak returns to court in Egypt, and more...
Saturday, August 24, 2013
A question about the use of iPads and smartphones during Mass...
QUAERITUR: Electronic devices during Mass | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: A hand-held device is just a tool. There is nothing good or bad about it in itself.
However, our prevailing impressions about these devices has not completely shifted yet, especially for people who are older. When we use them in church, some people of a certain age may think you are “playing” with the thing, instead of using it. �That could scandalize and distract them. �It seems to me that we should avoid using them a great deal during Mass, even to follow readings.
A better approach could be to familiarize yourself with the readings before Mass, so that you can listen to the actual words of Mass with attentive interior participation and active receptivity, even when they are in Latin. This applies also to the use of hand-missals. Yes, I think people should have hand-missals for the Extraordinary Form, and bring them to Mass, and consult them when appropriate, but that they should do their homework, churchwork, ahead of time as well.
However, our prevailing impressions about these devices has not completely shifted yet, especially for people who are older. When we use them in church, some people of a certain age may think you are “playing” with the thing, instead of using it. �That could scandalize and distract them. �It seems to me that we should avoid using them a great deal during Mass, even to follow readings.
A better approach could be to familiarize yourself with the readings before Mass, so that you can listen to the actual words of Mass with attentive interior participation and active receptivity, even when they are in Latin. This applies also to the use of hand-missals. Yes, I think people should have hand-missals for the Extraordinary Form, and bring them to Mass, and consult them when appropriate, but that they should do their homework, churchwork, ahead of time as well.
Major appointments expected after October meeting of "Gang of Eight" cardinals...
Major appointments awaited after cardinals' October meeting :: Catholic News Agency (CNA)GAGLIARDUCCI: Despite rumors about the supposedly imminent appointment of a new Secretary of State, Pope Francis will not be making any major appointments before October, Vatican insiders maintain.
“Pope Francis is not in a hurry to appoint a new Secretary of State, and he could also decide to keep Bertone at his post until he will turn 80,” a source familiar with the Vatican Secretariat of State who asked for anonymity told CNA Aug. 20.
On Oct. 1-3, the “Gang of Eight” group of cardinals on reforming the Roman Curia will meet, and the source disavowed any changes to the secretariat of state before that assembly.
“Pope Francis is not in a hurry to appoint a new Secretary of State, and he could also decide to keep Bertone at his post until he will turn 80,” a source familiar with the Vatican Secretariat of State who asked for anonymity told CNA Aug. 20.
On Oct. 1-3, the “Gang of Eight” group of cardinals on reforming the Roman Curia will meet, and the source disavowed any changes to the secretariat of state before that assembly.
How narrow is the Way of the Cross?
Insight Scoop | The Ignatius Press Blog: How narrow is the way of the Cross?OLSON: Over the past few weeks we have heard, in the readings from the Gospel according to St. Luke, about Jesus journeying up to Jerusalem to face arrest, suffering, and death (cf. Lk. 9:22, 43-45). Along the way he was spurned by a Samaritan village, he sent out seventy disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God, he told the parable of the Good Samaritan, and he visited Mary and Martha. He also taught about prayer, hypocrisy, riches, and vigilance.�
As varied as these matters were, they all were addressed with a singularity of purpose, for the good shepherd was working to gather in lost sheep while demonstrating that he was the promised Messiah who would deliver the remnant of faithful from spiritual exile. His Passion would reveal the deeper meaning of his teachings, and his death and resurrection in Jerusalem would point the way to the heavenly banquet in the new Jerusalem. This is what Ad Gentes, the Vatican II decree on mission activity of the Church, called “narrow way of the cross.”
As varied as these matters were, they all were addressed with a singularity of purpose, for the good shepherd was working to gather in lost sheep while demonstrating that he was the promised Messiah who would deliver the remnant of faithful from spiritual exile. His Passion would reveal the deeper meaning of his teachings, and his death and resurrection in Jerusalem would point the way to the heavenly banquet in the new Jerusalem. This is what Ad Gentes, the Vatican II decree on mission activity of the Church, called “narrow way of the cross.”
Jody Bottum thinks I've accused him of not being pro-life...
Jody Bottum Thinks I’ve Accused Him of Not Being ProlifeSHEA: ...which is sort of like thinking I’ve accused him of being part of the Double Malt Scotch Manufacturers Lobby. No. I’ve merely accused him of embedding nonsense like this in the interminable 6000 word styrofoam packing material of a windy, ill-composed bid to make himself what the New York Times considers a Man of Letters Who Has Grown...
Piety gives us supernatural grace to love God and neighbor truly...
Piety Gives Us Supernatural Grace to Truly Love God and Neighbor | Daily News | NCRegister.comSHEA: As we saw last time, Church Tradition describes piety as “the perfection of religion.” That does not tend to score big points for this gift on the Popularity Richter Scale, since most people react negatively to both the words “piety” and “religion.”
As we also saw, it turns out that religion, the basis of piety, has pretty much the opposite meaning from what our culture supposes. Instead of referring to cold, dead ritualism or icy and abstract theologizing, devoid of the love of God and neighbor, it actually refers to a lively faith in and relationship with Jesus Christ, coupled with a gung-ho zeal for doing all those things that Pharisees aren’t supposed to care about.
As we also saw, it turns out that religion, the basis of piety, has pretty much the opposite meaning from what our culture supposes. Instead of referring to cold, dead ritualism or icy and abstract theologizing, devoid of the love of God and neighbor, it actually refers to a lively faith in and relationship with Jesus Christ, coupled with a gung-ho zeal for doing all those things that Pharisees aren’t supposed to care about.
Sinner please don't let this harvest pass...
Sinner Please Don’t Let this Harvest Pass – A Teaching on the readings for the 21st Sunday of the year � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In the readings today the Lord describes a danger, our tendency to to make light of judgment and not be sober that one day we must account for what we have done. And though the Lord sets forth in the first reading his desire to save us, we must understand that our will, our yes, is essential to our salvation. Having taught us of this, Our Lord also gives us the Letter to the Hebrews that well sets for a kind of plan hereby, having accepting Jesus, we can make a daily walk with him in a kind of delivering discipline. Lets take a look at the reading to day, hear the urgent warnings and soberly lay hold of the solutions offered.
Archdiocese of Mobile accepts HHS money to explain "complicated regulations" of Obamacare
FOX10TV - Church Accepts Money to explain Obamacare | Fox10tv.com: The Catholic Archdiocese of Mobile, which joined other dioceses across the U.S. in opposing portions of the Obama administration’s “Affordable Care Act”, has accepted federal funding to help Americans sign up for insurance under the act.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said HHS has designated 105 organizations as "navigators" to assist people in obtaining coverage through various state exchanges. One of those “navigators” in Alabama is Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Mobile. Another is Ascension Health, which provides health care at Providence Hospital in Mobile and Sacred Heart Health system in Florida and Alabama.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said HHS has designated 105 organizations as "navigators" to assist people in obtaining coverage through various state exchanges. One of those “navigators” in Alabama is Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Mobile. Another is Ascension Health, which provides health care at Providence Hospital in Mobile and Sacred Heart Health system in Florida and Alabama.
Fr. Mitch Pacwa discusses Vocations Placement website with Natalie Smith
Te Deum laudamus!: Fr. Mitch Pacwa discusses Vocations Placement website with Natalie SmithKORZENIEWSKI: I don't always get to watch EWTN Live with Fr. Mitch Pacwa, but he is among my favorites. �He always has interesting guests on his Wednesday evening show at 8:00 PM ET. �The shows are archived and if you have a YouTube account, you can subscribe and watch most of the prime time programs, and then some, online after they air. �This 1 hour segment aired two days ago.
In this show, Fr. Mitch interviews Natalie Smith about her website, VocationsPlacement.org. �This is the first I've seen of it and it looks like an interesting site, but I only clicked around in the minute or so that I had. I'll go back there at some point and look some more. � It's best to watch the interview.
In this show, Fr. Mitch interviews Natalie Smith about her website, VocationsPlacement.org. �This is the first I've seen of it and it looks like an interesting site, but I only clicked around in the minute or so that I had. I'll go back there at some point and look some more. � It's best to watch the interview.
At what point does love become foolish, and unsustainable, and even fruitless?
Why faith matters: Belief as a cornerstone of what it means to be human - Catholic PhillyCHAPUT: My task today is talking about why faith matters. I’m happy to do that. But I want to begin by posing a question. The question is this: At what point does love become foolish, and unsustainable, and even fruitless?
Here’s the reason I ask. A number of my friends have children with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is permanent. There’s no cure. People with Down syndrome have mild to serious developmental delays. They have diminished cognitive function. They’re prone to a wide range of health problems. They also tend to have a uniquely Down syndrome “look” – a flat facial profile, almond-shaped eyes, a small nose, short neck, thick stature and difficulties with clear speech.
Testing can now detect up to 95 percent of pregnancies with a strong risk of Down syndrome. And the results are predictable. More than 80 percent of unborn babies in the United States diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted. They’re killed simply because they have an extra chromosome – a flaw that’s neither fatal nor contagious, but merely undesirable.
Here’s the reason I ask. A number of my friends have children with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is permanent. There’s no cure. People with Down syndrome have mild to serious developmental delays. They have diminished cognitive function. They’re prone to a wide range of health problems. They also tend to have a uniquely Down syndrome “look” – a flat facial profile, almond-shaped eyes, a small nose, short neck, thick stature and difficulties with clear speech.
Testing can now detect up to 95 percent of pregnancies with a strong risk of Down syndrome. And the results are predictable. More than 80 percent of unborn babies in the United States diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted. They’re killed simply because they have an extra chromosome – a flaw that’s neither fatal nor contagious, but merely undesirable.
Joseph Bottum writes “The Long Goodbye”
Joseph Bottum Writes “The Long Goodbye” UPDATESWEATHERS: Or is it “Farewell My Lovely?” Those are the titles that came to my mind as I read his essay today over at Commonweal.
No disrespect to Raymond Chandler intended for thinking of his titles, but I will never get back the hour I lost reading Bottums’ essay, where �he makes his personal case for coming out in favor of Same Sex Marriage.
When I got to the end, it felt like I had endured the wandering in the Sinai for forty years, while learning that I was still not getting to the Promised Land.
A bad trade, that.
No disrespect to Raymond Chandler intended for thinking of his titles, but I will never get back the hour I lost reading Bottums’ essay, where �he makes his personal case for coming out in favor of Same Sex Marriage.
When I got to the end, it felt like I had endured the wandering in the Sinai for forty years, while learning that I was still not getting to the Promised Land.
A bad trade, that.
The science behind honey's eternal shelf life
The Science Behind Honey's Eternal Shelf Life | Surprising Science: Modern archeologists, excavating ancient Egyptian tombs, have often found something unexpected amongst the tombs’ artifacts: pots of honey, thousands of years old, and yet still preserved. Through millennia, the archeologists discover, the food remains unspoiled, an unmistakable testament to the eternal shelf-life of honey.
There are a few other examples of foods that keep–indefinitely–in their raw state: salt, sugar, dried rice are a few. But there’s something about honey; it can remain preserved in a completely edible form, and while you wouldn’t want to chow down on raw rice or straight salt, one could ostensibly dip into a thousand year old jar of honey and enjoy it, without preparation, as if it were a day old. Moreover, honey’s longevity lends it other properties–mainly medicinal–that other resilient foods don’t have. Which raises the question–what exactly makes honey such a special food?
There are a few other examples of foods that keep–indefinitely–in their raw state: salt, sugar, dried rice are a few. But there’s something about honey; it can remain preserved in a completely edible form, and while you wouldn’t want to chow down on raw rice or straight salt, one could ostensibly dip into a thousand year old jar of honey and enjoy it, without preparation, as if it were a day old. Moreover, honey’s longevity lends it other properties–mainly medicinal–that other resilient foods don’t have. Which raises the question–what exactly makes honey such a special food?
Joseph Bottum, weary and wearisome
Joseph Bottum, Weary and Wearisome � First Thoughts | A First Things BlogFRANCK: Joseph Bottum, once the editor of this magazine, has unburdened himself of a change of mind on the subject of same-sex marriage, in Commonweal (and thereby earned himself also a grateful, and perfectly timed, pilgrimage by a New York Times writer to his home in South Dakota). Others who really know the author may wish to comment at greater length on an essay that is avowedly very personal. But what I detect in it is the work of someone who was never all that interested in investigating the arguments on either side of the same-sex marriage debate; whose scant interest in it has now been fully exhausted, both intellectually and morally; and whose present conclusions hover in mid-air without anything to support them other than a wistful regret that he has lost a hoedown partner in a gay man who has come fairly unglued over the issue.
Pope Francis moves Bishop Giuseppe Sciacca to Apostolic Signatura
RORATE C�LI: Sciacca moved to Signatura: Bishop Giuseppe Sciacca was named today by Pope Francis Adjunct Secretary of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, headed by Cardinal Burke.�
Sciacca was the Secretary of the Governatorate of Vatican City State, headed by a papal favorite, Cardinal Bertello.
Sciacca was the Secretary of the Governatorate of Vatican City State, headed by a papal favorite, Cardinal Bertello.
Protest over Egypt violence draws hundreds to nation's capital
Protest over Egypt violence draws hundreds to nation's capital :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Hundreds of Egyptian Christians and Muslims gathered in Washington. D.C., on Aug. 22 to protest acts of terror directed against minorities – particularly Coptic Christians – in Egypt.
“You can burn down our churches, but you can never touch our faith,” said one protester at the march. “Burning 100 churches is terrorism, not Morsi legitimacy,” said another.
Violence erupted in Egypt after government security forces broke up camps of protestors allied with the Muslim Brotherhood on Aug. 14. The protesters had been demanding that President Mohammed Morsi be returned to power after he had been ousted by the military last month.
“You can burn down our churches, but you can never touch our faith,” said one protester at the march. “Burning 100 churches is terrorism, not Morsi legitimacy,” said another.
Violence erupted in Egypt after government security forces broke up camps of protestors allied with the Muslim Brotherhood on Aug. 14. The protesters had been demanding that President Mohammed Morsi be returned to power after he had been ousted by the military last month.
A powerful and humorous look at vanity in a commercial
A powerful and humorous look at vanity in a commercial. � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Most people associate the word “vanity” with an excessive concern or pride in ones appearance, or sometimes with ones own qualities. But at its root the word “vain” or “vanity” refers to emptiness. To say that something or someone is “vain” is to say that it, or they, are empty or largely lacking in meaning, depth or substance.
It makes sense that people get worked up about externals when there isn’t much happening on the inside. And thus it makes sense that we connect emptiness (vanity) to excessive show.
It makes sense that people get worked up about externals when there isn’t much happening on the inside. And thus it makes sense that we connect emptiness (vanity) to excessive show.
10 things you need to know today: August 24, 2013
10 things you need to know today: August 24, 2013 - The Week: The Fort Hood shooter is found guilty, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer announces his retirement, and more...
Friday, August 23, 2013
40 World Youth Day pilgrims have remained behind to seek asylum in Brazil, UNHCR reports
UN: Catholic Pilgrims Seek Asylum in Brazil - ABC News: About 40 Catholic pilgrims who traveled to Brazil for Pope Francis' recent visit never left, hoping to stay permanently with political asylum.
The U.N. High Commission for Refugees in Brasilia said Thursday that the asylum seekers who came to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day say they suffer from persecution in home countries including Pakistan, Congo and Sierra Leone.
At least a dozen pilgrims say they are persecuted as Christians. The rest say they face political persecution or are fleeing conflicts.
If was unclear how long Brazil's Justice Ministry will take to weigh the asylum applications. The U.N. agency says it will help the applicants.
In the meantime, the pilgrims are being cared for by the church and the families who sheltered them during World Youth Day.
The U.N. High Commission for Refugees in Brasilia said Thursday that the asylum seekers who came to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day say they suffer from persecution in home countries including Pakistan, Congo and Sierra Leone.
At least a dozen pilgrims say they are persecuted as Christians. The rest say they face political persecution or are fleeing conflicts.
If was unclear how long Brazil's Justice Ministry will take to weigh the asylum applications. The U.N. agency says it will help the applicants.
In the meantime, the pilgrims are being cared for by the church and the families who sheltered them during World Youth Day.
There is a beachhead of the New Evangelization in Eastern Europe, and it has unlikely origins...
Light for the East—The New Evangelization in Eastern Europe - Catholic CultureSTIMPSON: Evil has a way of lingering. That's a truth Catholics in the East know all too well.
On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall fell. Two years later, on December 26, 1991, the Soviet Union itself broke apart. At the time, communism’s long reign across Eastern Europe seemed to be at an end. And it was…up to a point.
In some countries, market economies and free political systems soon emerged. In others, communist leaders remained in power, with only the names of their parties changed. And in the two decades since, other countries still have witnessed the ebb and flow of communists losing power, then regaining it once more.
On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall fell. Two years later, on December 26, 1991, the Soviet Union itself broke apart. At the time, communism’s long reign across Eastern Europe seemed to be at an end. And it was…up to a point.
In some countries, market economies and free political systems soon emerged. In others, communist leaders remained in power, with only the names of their parties changed. And in the two decades since, other countries still have witnessed the ebb and flow of communists losing power, then regaining it once more.
What do Egyptians really mean when they say ‘sharia’? It's not simple...
What do Egyptians really mean when they say ‘sharia’?MATTINGLY: One of the major themes in GetReligion posts about Islam over the past decade has been our emphasis on the fact that there is no one monolithic Islam, no one simplistic way for journalists to approach that faith.
For millions, Islam is truly a religion of peace. For millions of others, Islam is not — when it collides with minority religions and the modern world — a religion of peace. There is no one Islam.
This theme also applies to coverage of stories linked to Islamic, or sharia, law. When Muslims say that they want to see their land governed according to sharia law, journalists really need to stop and ask them what they mean when they use that term. Journalists need to ask specific questions about specific issues, so that readers are not caught, once again, in simplistic assumptions.
For millions, Islam is truly a religion of peace. For millions of others, Islam is not — when it collides with minority religions and the modern world — a religion of peace. There is no one Islam.
This theme also applies to coverage of stories linked to Islamic, or sharia, law. When Muslims say that they want to see their land governed according to sharia law, journalists really need to stop and ask them what they mean when they use that term. Journalists need to ask specific questions about specific issues, so that readers are not caught, once again, in simplistic assumptions.
If the Pope ever calls you, don't forget these 9 rules of telephone etiquette...
Telephone etiquette for 'the cold-call pope' | National Catholic ReporterALLEN: Francis has already garnered a slew of informal titles, such as "the pope of surprises," "the pope of the poor," and "the people's pope." Given his growing penchant for phoning total strangers out of the blue, however, he may earn yet another one: "the cold-call pope."
Two such calls during August make the point.
On Aug. 18, Francis phoned Stefano Cabizza, a 19-year-old engineering student who lives in the Italian town of Padova whose family attended the pope's Mass for the Aug. 15 feast of the Assumption in Castel Gandolfo. Cabizza had brought a personal letter for the pope to the Mass and approached a cardinal during the service to hand it to him, thinking that was the end of things.
Two such calls during August make the point.
On Aug. 18, Francis phoned Stefano Cabizza, a 19-year-old engineering student who lives in the Italian town of Padova whose family attended the pope's Mass for the Aug. 15 feast of the Assumption in Castel Gandolfo. Cabizza had brought a personal letter for the pope to the Mass and approached a cardinal during the service to hand it to him, thinking that was the end of things.
Clearly, Chicago's Cardinal George has decided not to leave important things left unsaid...
Nicholas Hahn: Chicago's Archbishop at the Barricades - WSJ.com: It's been over a year since the Archbishop of Chicago, Cardinal Francis George, submitted his resignation letter—mandatory when princes of the Catholic Church turn 75—to then- Pope Benedict XVI. In a highly unusual turn of events, Benedict was the one who resigned. That left Cardinal George—whose intellectual vigor is matched by a forceful defense of the church—still on the job.
Some wish he weren't. In late July, eight Illinois state lawmakers signed an open letter criticizing Cardinal George, among others, for threatening to end the church's financial support for a rights group. The church had cited the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, because the group came out for the legalization of same-sex marriage in May. The politicians—all Catholic Democrats—said the threat of a funding withdrawal was "not worthy of the church we know, love and respect." They said Cardinal George and others were using "immigrants and those who seek to help them as pawns in a political battle."
Some wish he weren't. In late July, eight Illinois state lawmakers signed an open letter criticizing Cardinal George, among others, for threatening to end the church's financial support for a rights group. The church had cited the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, because the group came out for the legalization of same-sex marriage in May. The politicians—all Catholic Democrats—said the threat of a funding withdrawal was "not worthy of the church we know, love and respect." They said Cardinal George and others were using "immigrants and those who seek to help them as pawns in a political battle."
How much authority for future popes and bishops?
Future Bishops and Popes: How Much Authority?SHAW: Pope Francis is contemplating a major reworking of the top-level administrative machinery of the Church. Commentators sometimes describe this as “reforming the Roman Curia,” but if the Pope’s own words–together with public and private proposals intended to influence the result–are any indication, the project could extend far beyond� reshuffling dicasteries and straightening out the affairs of the Institute for the Works of Religion (the Vatican bank).
In all cases, “collegiality” is said to be both the working principle and the objective of� reform. The word refers to the doctrine, revived by Vatican Council II, that the bishops share in teaching and governing the universal Church in union with the pope. The question that obviously raises is how it’s to be done.
In all cases, “collegiality” is said to be both the working principle and the objective of� reform. The word refers to the doctrine, revived by Vatican Council II, that the bishops share in teaching and governing the universal Church in union with the pope. The question that obviously raises is how it’s to be done.
Why do you talk so funny? A map of American dialects...
American dialects mapped - Boing Boing: Joshua Katz, at NC State University's Department of Statistics, compiled a series of simple, striking maps that visualize the words Americans use—and where they use them. The data was compiled from a survey conducted by Bert Vaux at the University of Cambridge. Below are just a few to whet your appetite for the full set of 122.
Unknown vandals attack Catholic radio "Try God" billboard in Boston
1060 AM WQOM Responds to Defacing of its “Try God” Billboard - The Good Catholic LifeSCOTLANDRY: “It’s very sad to learn that someone would deface our billboard and its uplifting message which encourages people to explore their friendship with God,” stated Chris Kelley, 1060AM station manager.� “This is clearly not a circumstance of some teenagers with spray paint.� Someone went to a lot of trouble to make it appear that the new text was a real billboard message.”
Kelley added, “This act, however, is an indication that the ‘Try God’ billboard campaign is attracting attention and making people reflect on the role of God in our lives. �Last week the Boston Globe’s editorial cartoon focused on the “Try God” campaign and today we see this well-planned act of vandalism.� That attention is the silver-lining and a sign that the campaign already has been successful.”
Kelley added, “This act, however, is an indication that the ‘Try God’ billboard campaign is attracting attention and making people reflect on the role of God in our lives. �Last week the Boston Globe’s editorial cartoon focused on the “Try God” campaign and today we see this well-planned act of vandalism.� That attention is the silver-lining and a sign that the campaign already has been successful.”
With the use of one word, Pope Francis is signalling to the Vatican insiders that their day is over
With the use of one word, Pope Francis is signalling to the Vatican insiders that their day is over | CatholicHerald.co.ukLUCIE-SMITH: It seems that Pope Francis has been on the phone again, as this heart-warming story that appears in both the Telegraph and the Guardian tells us. The latter’s headline even goes so far as to describe the Holy Father as “unstuffy”, which is praise indeed.
Italians are addicted to what they call dietrologia, or ‘the facts behind the facts’, and there is more to this story than immediately meets the eye.
Italians are addicted to what they call dietrologia, or ‘the facts behind the facts’, and there is more to this story than immediately meets the eye.
Looking at the good fruit of World Youth Day Denver '93
Looking at the Good Fruit of World Youth Day Denver '93 | Daily News | NCRegister.comLAUGESEN: It was an event bigger than Woodstock, and it featured a man who captivated the hearts and minds of youth who came from all over the world. Looking back at this historic event, World Youth Day in 1993 changed the culture and defied expectations of political, religious and secular establishments.
“Imagine Woodstock with all of the good and none of the bad,” said Sister Mary Ann Walsh, who managed communications for Denver’s World Youth Day. “It was an event of more than 100,000 young people that changed society, but there was no marijuana; no beer bottles on the ground.”
“Imagine Woodstock with all of the good and none of the bad,” said Sister Mary Ann Walsh, who managed communications for Denver’s World Youth Day. “It was an event of more than 100,000 young people that changed society, but there was no marijuana; no beer bottles on the ground.”
Cinema's greatest effects shots picked by Hollywood's top VFX specialists
Davy Jones (Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest) | Cinema's Greatest Effects Shots Picked By Hollywood's Top VFX Specialists | Features | Empire: From Eadweard Muybridge and George Méliès to James Cameron and Phil Tippett, the history of movie effects is basically the greatest bedtime story never told. Except it’s a yarn so full of dragons, dinosaurs and mimetic polyalloy killing machines sent back from the future that you’d never get any sleep after hearing it. As Life Of Pi and Avatar amply demonstrate, there are many chapters still to be written and innovations still to be forged, but whether in-camera, matte, prosthetic, CG, or just lovingly modelled by a man with a passion for Plasticine, effects have brought magic to the movies since the silent era. In a unique celebration of the art, Empire asked the people who make them happen to pick their favourites.
A day in the life of a city: Mesmerizing photos capture 24 hours in just one picture...
Day to night: Stephen Wilkes� photographs capture iconic cities by day and night in just one picture | Mail Online: Most photographers would be happy to capture a beautiful sunset or sunrise.
But for one artist, that wasn't enough - so he decided to show the world's most iconic cityscapes by day and night - in just one picture.
The mesmerising images show the beautiful transition from day to night in some of the world's most iconic cities from the Shanghai skyline to New York's Central Park.
But for one artist, that wasn't enough - so he decided to show the world's most iconic cityscapes by day and night - in just one picture.
The mesmerising images show the beautiful transition from day to night in some of the world's most iconic cities from the Shanghai skyline to New York's Central Park.
Let them be born in wonder
Let them be born in wonder - By Bishop James D. ConleyCONLEY: "Wonder is the beginning of knowledge," said Professor John Senior, "the reverent fear that beauty strikes within us."
Professor Senior built his life around wonder – he reveled in the mysteries of this universe, and in the Mystery – that of God himself – to which our world points. Professor Senior believed that if each of us took the opportunity to really look at the world around us – to marvel at nature, at humanity, at our own creation, and at God, we would be filled with curiosity, with delight, and with an eagerness to learn, to understand, and to know the world that the Lord has created. "Each creature is a mirror of its Maker," he said, "we need only look!"
Professor Senior built his life around wonder – he reveled in the mysteries of this universe, and in the Mystery – that of God himself – to which our world points. Professor Senior believed that if each of us took the opportunity to really look at the world around us – to marvel at nature, at humanity, at our own creation, and at God, we would be filled with curiosity, with delight, and with an eagerness to learn, to understand, and to know the world that the Lord has created. "Each creature is a mirror of its Maker," he said, "we need only look!"
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