Why Do Seagulls Hang Out in Parking Lots? | Mental Floss: I live in Philadelphia, which is a quick enough drive to the Jersey Shore when traffic is good, but still pretty far from the ocean. Yet, the parking lot of my local grocery store is almost always full of seagulls. What gives?
Well, ornithologists will point out, “seagulls” are more accurately called gulls and while they do like to be near water, they don’t strictly live by the sea. The Ring-billed gull prefers the interior of the country, and some never even get near the ocean. The grey gull is usually found on the western coast of South America, but heads away from the shore and into Chile’s Atacama Desert to breed. Even the Herring gull, which the Cornell University ornithology lab calls the quintessential “seagull,” can be found pretty far inland during both the summer breeding season and the winter.�
Monday, June 30, 2014
"The time has come to rise": ISIS militants declare restoration of Muslim caliphate
ISIS Militants Declare Islamist ‘Caliphate’ | TIME: In a move that may attract more followers, the Sunni extremist group claims to establish dominion over all the world's Muslims...
The Greens of Hobby Lobby: One family with courage is a majority
The Greens of Hobby Lobby: One Family with Courage is a MajorityHAMILTON: The Green Family (who are Okies, by the way) risked everything they had worked for all their lives.
The put everything but their lives on the line by refusing to accede to the HHS Mandate’s requirement that they pay for insurance coverage for abortifacient drugs. The Greens, who are Southern Baptists, already provided insurance coverage for contraceptives for their employees.
But they would not be participants in the evil of abortion. It conflicted with their faith in Jesus Christ.
The put everything but their lives on the line by refusing to accede to the HHS Mandate’s requirement that they pay for insurance coverage for abortifacient drugs. The Greens, who are Southern Baptists, already provided insurance coverage for contraceptives for their employees.
But they would not be participants in the evil of abortion. It conflicted with their faith in Jesus Christ.
The Apostle to Northern California: Blessed Junipero Serra
The Apostle to Northern California: Bl. Junipero Serra - Crisis Magazine: In his last moments on earth, Jesus commissioned His apostles, “Go … and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19), and he promised that they would be witnesses “to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). In the latter half of the eighteenth century, few places were geographically farther from Judea than Alta, California, and the native peoples of that region had likely not heard the Gospel message. So it seemed to be fertile ground for shepherding new souls to the Lord. In this historical milieu, Bl. Junipero Serra stands as a shining example of fidelity to the missionary apostolate commanded by Christ.
Parish priests are needed to renew the Church, and Pope Francis knows it...
MondayVatican – Vatican � Synod of bishops, the search for parish priests | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: Communicating the faith. This is the number one priority, as it is outlined in the “Instrumentum Laboris” of the next extraordinary synod on the family. Amid strong points of view, some of which can be discarded at a political level (the ones the secular media have been writing about), the Instrumentum Laboris is also a call for parish priests to be better formed in transmitting the love of God, to be able to explain to the faithful the beauty of the family. A paragraph is also dedicated to homilies, which are so important to Pope Francis that he dedicated to them a significant part of his exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium”. Before addressing the signs of the times, the discussions at stake, there is a need for a renewed priesthood. This is an old challenge. Pope Francis is called to address it.
10 things you need to know today: June 30, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 30, 2014 - The Week: Obama picks a new Veterans Affairs secretary, ISIS declares the creation of an Islamic state, and more...
The most misunderstood player in the American Revolution was King George III himself...
Born for Happiness and Misery: King George III - Crisis MagazineRUTLER: In the splendid biographies of George Washington and Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow the leitmotif that bursts into a glorious finale is that Washington truly was one of the noblest of men and Hamilton, in some ways the son that Washington never had, was a stunning genius and no less entertaining as a character. Jefferson and Adams come off somewhat lesser and venal in contrast. Sometimes Washington seemed like a superior schoolmaster controlling all these gifted men as they squabbled among themselves—somewhat like Eisenhower corralling the generals and prime ministers in World War II. The instinctive majesty of republican Washington justifies myth, and even exceeds it and, to their credit, all of the Founding Fathers, formed by classical virtues, transcended their differences when unity was needed to attain their chief goal.
Baptize but be discreet: On the baptism of children presented by parents in irregular situations
Baptize but Be Discreet: On the Catholic Baptism of children presented by homosexual and other irregular parents � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In recent decades there has been an explosion in the number of children conceived and born outside of Holy Matrimony. The general approach of the Church has been to baptize these children as long as there is no evidence of an ongoing rejection of the Church teaching that sexual intimacy is reserved for marriage. While people may have fallen in weakness, the presumption was that they at least accepted the norm and were going to try to live by it.
U.S. Supreme Court upholds religious freedom for Hobby Lobby
Supreme Court upholds religious freedom for Hobby Lobby :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On June 30, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Hobby Lobby and similar employers cannot be forced to comply with the federal contraception mandate against their religious beliefs.
In a 5-4 decision, the court ruled that the federal government had failed to prove that the mandate was the least restrictive means of advancing its goal of providing free birth control to women.
In a 5-4 decision, the court ruled that the federal government had failed to prove that the mandate was the least restrictive means of advancing its goal of providing free birth control to women.
U.S. Supreme Court sides with Hobby Lobby, says closely held companies can refuse to cover contraception
Companies Can Refuse To Cover Contraception, Supreme Court Says | 91.5 KIOS-FM: The Supreme Court has ruled that Hobby Lobby and other closely held for-profit corporations can opt out of the Affordable Care Act's provisions for no-cost prescription contraception in most health insurance plans. The companies' owners had objected on the grounds of religious freedom.
The ruling affirms a Hobby Lobby victory in a lower court and gives new standing to similar claims by other companies.
The ruling affirms a Hobby Lobby victory in a lower court and gives new standing to similar claims by other companies.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
It curves! The history and physics of the Wiffle Ball...
It Curves! A Brief History of Wiffle Ball | Mental Floss: Wiffle Ball season is once again upon us. Before you pick up your first white plastic ball and yellow plastic bat of the summer, we thought we'd fill you in on a few points about the proud game's history and science.
700 years later, everyone's still talking about the Summa
700 Years Later—Everyone’s Still Talking About the ‘Summa’ | Seton MagazineCLARK: In the late Thirteenth Century, the epoch which historian Warren Carroll has referred to as “The Glory of Christendom,” Saint Thomas Aquinas penned his masterpiece: The Summa Theologica. It would come to be considered one of the greatest intellectual works of the Western Canon, and is commonly cited as one of the most brilliant works of theology in ecclesiastical history.
For the seven hundred years since its writing, popes have had a difficult time speaking of the intellect of St. Thomas without the use of superlatives. For instance, Pope Leo XIII writes: “Among the Scholastic Doctors, the chief and master of all towers Thomas Aquinas, who, as Cajetan observes, because ‘he most venerated the ancient doctors of the Church, in a certain way seems to have inherited the intellect of all.’”
For the seven hundred years since its writing, popes have had a difficult time speaking of the intellect of St. Thomas without the use of superlatives. For instance, Pope Leo XIII writes: “Among the Scholastic Doctors, the chief and master of all towers Thomas Aquinas, who, as Cajetan observes, because ‘he most venerated the ancient doctors of the Church, in a certain way seems to have inherited the intellect of all.’”
Bishops in Asia, and indeed around the world, will be closely watching the Pope's visit to South Korea
Francis and South Korea | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsSHIMEK: It’s official. The volo papale, or papal airplane, will take off from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport in mid-August. This time it will be headed for the heart of Asia. Pope Francis will visit Daejeon, South Korea from August 14 to 18. Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican Press Office, made the announcement in a statement issued March 10. The official comunicato reads...
5 facts of faith from the life of St. Peter
Five Facts of Faith from the Life of St. Peter – A Homily for the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Today’s Feast of Saints Peter and Paul honors two fundamental pillars of the early Church. While all the Apostles form the foundation, Peter and Paul stand out very profoundly in terms of influence and work. And while some have wished to suggest division between them, the Church insists that they must been seen together; hence their feast is set forth in this way.
Here's why the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul overrides our usual Sunday celebration...
Saints Peter and Paul; Foundation of FaithETIENNE: Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. The mere fact that this solemnity over-rides the usual Sunday celebration tells us much of the significance of these two saints.
In Rome, it is a particularly favored day in the liturgical year recognizing that the Church was built upon the faith of Peter: “Lord, you are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (Matthew 16:16) Similarly, though the primacy goes to Peter, the Church recognizing the great teacher, Paul along with his great faith and perseverance: “I have fought the good fight; I have run the race to the finish; I have kept the faith.”
While today remembers the entire life and ministry of St. Peter and Paul, it also gives thanks for their final ‘confession,’ that of laying down their life, pouring out their blood, as the greatest witness of their faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world. The Church is built upon the blood of the martyrs, and every such ‘confession of faith.’ That faith of St. Paul is captured in these words: “I know the one whom I have trusted and I am certain that he, the just judge, has power to keep safe what he has entrusted to me until that Day.”
In Rome, it is a particularly favored day in the liturgical year recognizing that the Church was built upon the faith of Peter: “Lord, you are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (Matthew 16:16) Similarly, though the primacy goes to Peter, the Church recognizing the great teacher, Paul along with his great faith and perseverance: “I have fought the good fight; I have run the race to the finish; I have kept the faith.”
While today remembers the entire life and ministry of St. Peter and Paul, it also gives thanks for their final ‘confession,’ that of laying down their life, pouring out their blood, as the greatest witness of their faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world. The Church is built upon the blood of the martyrs, and every such ‘confession of faith.’ That faith of St. Paul is captured in these words: “I know the one whom I have trusted and I am certain that he, the just judge, has power to keep safe what he has entrusted to me until that Day.”
In annual Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul tradition, Pope confers pallium on 24 metropolitan archbishops
Whispers in the Loggia: On Peter's Day, Francis Calls Bishops To "Follow"PALMO: Marking the patronal feast of Rome, on this solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul the city's 266th bishop led the 30th anniversary of the tradition instituted by St John Paul II, conferring the pallium on 24 new metropolitan archbishops named over the last year.
What's more, though, in the process Pope Francis gave himself a new one.... Well, a new-old one.
Six years after the chief MC Msgr Guido Marini devised a "Papal Pallium" adorned with red crosses for B16, at today's rites Francis ditched the model, restoring the same black-crossed version (above) worn by centuries of his predecessors and identical to that given every other archbishop. The sign of the "fullness of the episcopal office" which each metropolitan is entitled to wear at Masses within his province, the return to the common pallium serves to more fully underscore the woolen vestment's intended symbolism over the centuries – namely, a visible sign of the bond between the archbishops of the entire church and the See of Peter.
What's more, though, in the process Pope Francis gave himself a new one.... Well, a new-old one.
Six years after the chief MC Msgr Guido Marini devised a "Papal Pallium" adorned with red crosses for B16, at today's rites Francis ditched the model, restoring the same black-crossed version (above) worn by centuries of his predecessors and identical to that given every other archbishop. The sign of the "fullness of the episcopal office" which each metropolitan is entitled to wear at Masses within his province, the return to the common pallium serves to more fully underscore the woolen vestment's intended symbolism over the centuries – namely, a visible sign of the bond between the archbishops of the entire church and the See of Peter.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
The unbelievable plot to eliminate Brazil from the 1990 World Cup
Untold World Cup story: The unbelievable plot to eliminate Brazil - CNN.com: It's one of the greatest World Cup scandals and 25 years on Chile return Wednesday to the "crime scene" that resulted in the South American country being banned from the 1994 World Cup.
It's a story of brazen deceit and shameless subterfuge and had it not been for the photographic skills of just one man, Brazil's unimpeachable record of being the only side to have competed at every tournament would have been put into serious jeopardy.
It's a story of brazen deceit and shameless subterfuge and had it not been for the photographic skills of just one man, Brazil's unimpeachable record of being the only side to have competed at every tournament would have been put into serious jeopardy.
10 things you need to know today: June 28, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 28, 2014 - The Week: A Mexican military helicopter fires on U.S. border patrol, the Obama administration announces plans to join land mine treaty, and more...
11 Apple easter eggs hidden inside of your Mac and iPhone
11 Apple Easter Eggs Inside of Your Mac and iPhone | Mental Floss: Apple designers and programmers in Cupertino, California (Apple’s headquarters) have cooked up some fun Easter eggs that are currently hidden all over your MacBook and iPhone—you just need to know where to look. Here are 11 ways to find them.
Another pro-abortion Catholic lets rip about Pope Francis in the Huffington Post
Francis’ Honeymoon is Over – Another Liberal Bites BackLONGENECKER: Last week Salon ran a hatchet piece on Pope Francis by Anna March. In one of the most ludicrous article I’ve ever read it was suggested that Pope Francis’ nice guy image is nothing more than a PR stunt run by a sinister conservative member of Opus Dei… I commented on March’s piece here.
Today Patricia Miller–a pro-abortion Catholic lets rip about Pope Francis.
Today Patricia Miller–a pro-abortion Catholic lets rip about Pope Francis.
Thirst as an image for prayer, as seen on TV
Thirst as an image for prayer, as seen on TV � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Scripture often uses thirst as an image for prayer and desire for God. Thus thirst is a symbol for prayer and longing. And so when I see the commercial below, I know that although the guy says “Stay thirsty, my friend!” to make me want to buy beer, what he REALLY means to say is, “Get in touch with your longing for God and pray often, my friend!”
And so I say to you: “Stay thirsty, my friend!”
Lincoln's Bishop Emeritus Fabian Bruskewitz expected to make full recovery after heart attack
Bishop Bruskewitz expected to make full recovery after heart attack : Lincoln, NE Journal Star: Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz, bishop emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln, is in stable condition after suffering a heart attack at his home Friday morning, said JD Flynn, the communications director for the diocese.
EWTN petitions U.S. Supreme Court for emergency relief from HHS Mandate
EWTN Petitions U.S. Supreme Court for Emergency Relief From HHS Mandate | Daily News | NCRegister.com: The EWTN Global Catholic Network has filed a motion for emergency relief with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking for an injunction to bar enforcement of the federal contraception mandate.
Michael Warsaw, chairman and CEO of EWTN, explained that the network has already requested this protection with the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, “but that court has yet to respond to our petition.”
Michael Warsaw, chairman and CEO of EWTN, explained that the network has already requested this protection with the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, “but that court has yet to respond to our petition.”
"Look at one another in God": Pope Francis meets delegation of Ecumenical Patriarchate
Pope Francis meets Delegation of Ecumenical Patriarchate: Pope Francis addressed the Delegation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate at the Vatican on Saturday to mark the Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, celebrated on 29 June.
In his message, the Pope recalled the pilgrimage he shared with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I to the Holy Land last month and their common prayer at the Vatican with the presidents of Israel and Palestine.
“The Lord granted us these occasions of fraternal encounter, in which we were able to express the love uniting us in Christ, and to renew our mutual desire to walk together along the path to full unity,” the Pope said.
In his message, the Pope recalled the pilgrimage he shared with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I to the Holy Land last month and their common prayer at the Vatican with the presidents of Israel and Palestine.
“The Lord granted us these occasions of fraternal encounter, in which we were able to express the love uniting us in Christ, and to renew our mutual desire to walk together along the path to full unity,” the Pope said.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Archbishop laicized by Vatican after guilty verdict in canonical sex abuse trial
Vatican laicizes former nuncio to Dominican Republic :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Following abuse accusations last fall involving the former apostolic nuncio to the Dominican Republic, the Vatican has concluded the first part of his canonical trial with a guilty verdict and laicization.
Accusations of sexual misconduct were reported last year regarding the former nuncio Josef Wesolowski, which led to his Aug. 21 resignation.
Following the publication of the initial accusations, a 13-year-old boy from the country said in a television interview that the Polish former archbishop had solicited him for sexual favors in exchange for money. He was then taken into protective custody by Dominican Republic officials.
Accusations of sexual misconduct were reported last year regarding the former nuncio Josef Wesolowski, which led to his Aug. 21 resignation.
Following the publication of the initial accusations, a 13-year-old boy from the country said in a television interview that the Polish former archbishop had solicited him for sexual favors in exchange for money. He was then taken into protective custody by Dominican Republic officials.
Big news report card: Grading abortion buffer zone coverage
Big news report card: Grading abortion buffer zone coverage: As my GetReligion colleague Jim Davis highlighted this morning, the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday struck down a Massachusetts abortion buffer zone law.
News junkie that I am, I enjoyed perusing today’s front pages and searching Google News to see how various news organizations handled the story.
Using my media critic’s prerogative, I decided to grade some of the coverage.
My major criteria: First, how fully did a particular story cover the important details — including the court’s majority and minority opinions, the reactions by the parties involved in the case and the responses by activists on both sides of the abortion debate? Second, how fairly did the story treat all sides?
News junkie that I am, I enjoyed perusing today’s front pages and searching Google News to see how various news organizations handled the story.
Using my media critic’s prerogative, I decided to grade some of the coverage.
My major criteria: First, how fully did a particular story cover the important details — including the court’s majority and minority opinions, the reactions by the parties involved in the case and the responses by activists on both sides of the abortion debate? Second, how fairly did the story treat all sides?
Pope Francis cancels hospital visit due to "sudden indisposition"
Pope cancels hospital visit due to 'sudden indisposition' :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): As spectators were awaiting the visit of Pope Francis to a Roman hospital, it was announced by Bishop Claudio Giuliodori that the pontiff cancelled his visit due to a “sudden indisposition.”
Bishop Giuliodori, General Ecclesiastical Assistant of the University of the Sacred Heart, read the announcement to those waiting for the Holy Father. The cancellation was later confirmed by Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J.
Pope Francis was scheduled to visit Rome’s Agostino Gemelli hospital, which is attached to the University of the Sacred Heart, at 3:30 p.m. in celebration of the 50th anniversary of its foundation.
Bishop Giuliodori, General Ecclesiastical Assistant of the University of the Sacred Heart, read the announcement to those waiting for the Holy Father. The cancellation was later confirmed by Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J.
Pope Francis was scheduled to visit Rome’s Agostino Gemelli hospital, which is attached to the University of the Sacred Heart, at 3:30 p.m. in celebration of the 50th anniversary of its foundation.
Canadian city bans Christian event featuring Laura Bush over Chick-fil-A sponsorship
Canadian city bans Christian event featuring Laura Bush over Chick-fil-A sponsorship | News | Lifesitenews: City councilors from Nanaimo, B.C. voted last month to ban a Christian leadership conference scheduled to be podcast at the city’s convention centre because one of the sponsors of the conference was U.S. restaurant chain Chick-fil-A. According to one councilor, the chain spreads “divisiveness, homophobia…[and] expressions of hate” because of its CEO’s pro-marriage views.
"Be willing to make the sacrifices": 4 lessons in manliness from Louis Zamperini
You Have to Be Hardened to Life: 4 Lessons in Manliness from Louis Zamperini | The Art of Manliness: Sometimes stories are so slender that to become movies, Hollywood has to generously pad and exaggerate the scanty details.
In the case of the current effort to bring the life of Louis Zamperini to the silver screen, the challenge for filmmakers is quite the opposite — managing to fit all the unbelievable details into only 3 hours of running time.
As a boy, Zamperini was a troublemaker who seemed destined to become a bum or a criminal.
In the case of the current effort to bring the life of Louis Zamperini to the silver screen, the challenge for filmmakers is quite the opposite — managing to fit all the unbelievable details into only 3 hours of running time.
As a boy, Zamperini was a troublemaker who seemed destined to become a bum or a criminal.
From simply sentimental to strong and sure: A consideration of devotion to the Sacred Heart
From Simply Sentimental to Strong and Sure – A Consideration of Devotion to the Sacred Heart � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I must say that in the past I was not always as on board as I should have been when it came to the Feast of the Sacred Heart. As a man, I have struggled especially with some of the Sacred Heart images of past years, especially from the 1940s into the 1970s that, frankly, made Jesus look like a bearded lady. Deep red lips, baby soft skin, “come-hither” look, ”feminine” head tilt, long slender fingers, and strangely bent wrists all seemed too feminine for me.� See for example the image here: Sacred Heart. Frankly, the feminized portrayal of Jesus made me cringe. “Maybe this works for some,” I thought, ”but not for me.” Women are beautiful, but men shouldn’t look like women.
10 things you need to know today: June 27, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 27, 2014 - The Week: Obama makes his first request to train and equip Syrian rebels, the U.S. advances in the World Cup, and more...
Pope Francis at morning Mass: The love of God is generous and active
Pope Francis: love of God is both generous, active :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Pope Francis focused his daily homily on the love between God and his people, stating that it grows when it is given, and that we must lower ourselves as a small child to receive it.
“There are two aspects to this love. First, love is more about giving and receiving. Second, love is more about actions than words” the Pope observed in his June 27 daily Mass in the Vatican’s Saint Martha guesthouse.
Noting how June 27 marks the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Roman Pontiff described how this feast celebrates the love God has for us in his son, Jesus Christ.
“There are two aspects to this love. First, love is more about giving and receiving. Second, love is more about actions than words” the Pope observed in his June 27 daily Mass in the Vatican’s Saint Martha guesthouse.
Noting how June 27 marks the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Roman Pontiff described how this feast celebrates the love God has for us in his son, Jesus Christ.
Pope fills longest-standing vacancy in U.S., names Msgr. Steven Raica as new Bishop of Gaylord, Michigan
Whispers in the Loggia: In Michigan, A Spartan Shift – Lansing Chancellor Raica to GaylordPALMO: As the Curia's "end of school" desk-clearing reaches its close, the US' longest-standing vacancy has been settled.
At Roman Noon this Friday, the Pope tapped Msgr Steven Raica, 61 – chancellor of Lansing and, from 1999-2005, head of the Casa Santa Maria (the Roman residence for American priests in graduate studies) – as fifth bishop of Gaylord, the 65,000-member church comprising the northern 21 counties of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
At Roman Noon this Friday, the Pope tapped Msgr Steven Raica, 61 – chancellor of Lansing and, from 1999-2005, head of the Casa Santa Maria (the Roman residence for American priests in graduate studies) – as fifth bishop of Gaylord, the 65,000-member church comprising the northern 21 counties of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
It's possible to balance beliefs and aspirations
It's Possible to Balance Beliefs and Aspirations - NYTimes.comCAMPBELL: The search for an economic system that perfectly reflects Christian ideals in practice as well as theory is at least as old as Jesus’ warning about trying to serve both God and mammon. And it’s an equally frustrating task.
There are effective economic systems and ineffective ones; systems that contribute to human flourishing and ones that block that flourishing at nearly every turn. History has vindicated capitalism’s place in the former category, despite its flaws. To paraphrase Winston Churchill’s quip about democracy, capitalism is the worst economic system – except for all the others.
There are effective economic systems and ineffective ones; systems that contribute to human flourishing and ones that block that flourishing at nearly every turn. History has vindicated capitalism’s place in the former category, despite its flaws. To paraphrase Winston Churchill’s quip about democracy, capitalism is the worst economic system – except for all the others.
Hear isolated tracks from five great rock bassists: McCartney, Sting, Deacon, Jones and Lee
Hear Isolated Tracks From Five Great Rock Bassists: McCartney, Sting, Deacon, Jones & Lee - | Open Culture: Last week we sparked some heated debate (and some typical internet vitriol) with a post featuring isolated drum tracks from six of rock’s best drummers. Well, here we go again, this time with isolated bass tracks…. Bear in mind that the bassists featured here are some of the top players in rock who actually have bass tracks available online. There are many more I’d love to hear out of the mix—and no shortage of jazz, reggae, funk, and soul bassists I deeply dig. If you don’t see your favorite player here… really, don’t take it personally.
You know how they say the divorce rate is 50 percent? New numbers are in. Prepare to be shocked...
You Know How They Say The Divorce Rate In The Church Is 50%? Prepare To Be Shocked...: It is commonly thought that the rate of divorce in the church is the same as the rate of divorce among those outside the church, supposedly a whopping 50 percent. According to Harvard-trained researcher Shaunti Feldhahn, though, the rate of divorce among church attenders is “maybe 15 percent, maybe 20 percent for all marriages.”
Feldhahn could find no actual evidence that the divorce rate in society at large and the church was an abysmal 50 percent. She spent eight years seeking the truth in this matter, and she came to dramatically different conclusions from what “common knowledge” describes. Feldhahn produced a book called The Good News About Marriage to debunk the discouraging notion that divorce in the church is around 50 percent.
Feldhahn could find no actual evidence that the divorce rate in society at large and the church was an abysmal 50 percent. She spent eight years seeking the truth in this matter, and she came to dramatically different conclusions from what “common knowledge” describes. Feldhahn produced a book called The Good News About Marriage to debunk the discouraging notion that divorce in the church is around 50 percent.
Here's a perspective on Iraq's suffering Christians that will open your eyes...
Iraq Christians of Ancient Faith, Seeking SanctuarySCALIA: I almost didn’t have the heart to read the piece beyond the headline and sub: Iraq’s beleaguered Christians make final stand on the Mosul frontline; Some Christian families from Mosul have sought refuge in St Matthew’s Monastery…Others vow to take a stand against the Islamists – whatever the cost .
Imagine having to leave your home, your work — pack up the family and seek sanctuary in a Monastery, not knowing whether your life will ever seem stable again.
Feeling helpless in the face of this reality for the Christians in Iraq, and elsewhere in the Middle East, and unwilling to simply link to the story and say “let us pray for them” — as legitimate and sincere as that may be — I turned to Michael La Civita, whose career has been in service to these Christians. He is communications director for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), and oversees the publication of its award-winning magazine, ONE. He guest-blogs here to help us gain some perspective. Prayer has power and yes, we must pray for them, and fast, too and offer material assistance if we can, but perhaps all of that can be better-directed, and more efficacious, if we have a clearer picture of what the day-to-day of it has been.
Imagine having to leave your home, your work — pack up the family and seek sanctuary in a Monastery, not knowing whether your life will ever seem stable again.
Feeling helpless in the face of this reality for the Christians in Iraq, and elsewhere in the Middle East, and unwilling to simply link to the story and say “let us pray for them” — as legitimate and sincere as that may be — I turned to Michael La Civita, whose career has been in service to these Christians. He is communications director for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA), and oversees the publication of its award-winning magazine, ONE. He guest-blogs here to help us gain some perspective. Prayer has power and yes, we must pray for them, and fast, too and offer material assistance if we can, but perhaps all of that can be better-directed, and more efficacious, if we have a clearer picture of what the day-to-day of it has been.
Is the era of ugly churches coming to an end?
Restoring Sacred Architecture to a Higher Plane | Daily News | NCRegister.comBEATTIE: In the years following the Second Vatican Council, the gathered local community was often pointed to as the new focal point of worship, while Jesus Christ was literally set aside.
According to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, "In accordance with the structure of each church and legitimate local customs, the Most Blessed Sacrament should be reserved in a tabernacle in a part of the church that is truly noble, prominent
According to the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, "In accordance with the structure of each church and legitimate local customs, the Most Blessed Sacrament should be reserved in a tabernacle in a part of the church that is truly noble, prominent
False report of babies’ bodies found in Irish septic tank recalls long history of anti-Catholic prejudice...
Media buries the truthERLANDSON: The stories were lurid almost beyond belief. Irish nuns charged with taking care of unwed mothers and their children had disposed of hundreds of children’s bodies in a septic tank. The New York Times reported it, as did newspapers around the world. It was a horrific nightmare for the Church, signaling yet again the hypocrisy and cruelty of this scandal-plagued institution.
The only problem is that the story is false.
The only problem is that the story is false.
The U.S. doesn’t have the answer to Iraq’s problems. In fact it never did...
No good option in Iraq warSHAW: Starting in 2003, the United States has made two fundamental mistakes in Iraq, both with strong moral implications. At the risk of oversimplification, they can be summed up like this: The first mistake was going into Iraq, and the second was getting out. ��
The first of these blunders was George Bush’s for launching an unjust and unnecessary war. The second was Barack Obama’s for pulling out before authentic stability had been restored in a country the U.S. had done so much to destabilize. By now we’ve paid heavily for both mistakes. Absent a fresh look at what we’re doing, we are likely to keep on paying in days to come. � � �
The first of these blunders was George Bush’s for launching an unjust and unnecessary war. The second was Barack Obama’s for pulling out before authentic stability had been restored in a country the U.S. had done so much to destabilize. By now we’ve paid heavily for both mistakes. Absent a fresh look at what we’re doing, we are likely to keep on paying in days to come. � � �
Bishop James Conley's letter on 'language of love' finds global audience
Bishop's letter on 'language of love' finds global audience :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Nebraska Bishop James D. Conley’s pastoral letter “The Language of Love” has had an international impact in the first three months since it was published.
“Sacrifice is the language of love,” Bishop Conley’s pastoral letter reads. “Love is spoken in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who poured out his life for us on the cross. Love is spoken in the sacrifice of the Christian life, sharing in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. And love is spoken in the sacrifice of parents, and pastors, and friends.”
The pastoral letter, published March 25, discusses topics like marriage and the reasons behind Catholic rejection of contraception and sterilization. It is addressed to the Catholic families and healthcare providers of the diocese of Lincoln, Neb.
“Sacrifice is the language of love,” Bishop Conley’s pastoral letter reads. “Love is spoken in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who poured out his life for us on the cross. Love is spoken in the sacrifice of the Christian life, sharing in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. And love is spoken in the sacrifice of parents, and pastors, and friends.”
The pastoral letter, published March 25, discusses topics like marriage and the reasons behind Catholic rejection of contraception and sterilization. It is addressed to the Catholic families and healthcare providers of the diocese of Lincoln, Neb.
Here's the all-important Instrumentum Laboris (HTML and PDF) for October's Synod on the Family
Whispers in the Loggia: Stacking out at 73 pages and released at Roman Noon, the all-important Instrumentum Laboris for October's Synod on the Family is available as both html and pdf.
Don't let somebody else be your brain, folks – do yourself a favor and actually read it.
Don't let somebody else be your brain, folks – do yourself a favor and actually read it.
6 practical ideas for integrating your Catholic faith with work...
Six Practical Ideas for Integrating our Catholic Faith with Work : The Integrated Catholic Life™HAIN: How do we integrate our faith with our work? If you think about it, most of us will likely spend the majority of our adult (awake) lives in the workplace. A typical eight-hour work day accounts for a third of the total day, with the other two-thirds devoted to sleeping, family, friends, faith, and so on. In the practice of our faith, do we consider the workplace as an opportunity to be open about our Catholic beliefs or do we ignore this vital time and only think about being Catholic the other sixteen hours a day?
So you want to be a writer? You should attend the Catholic Writers Conference this summer...
So You Want to Be a Writer… You Should Attend the Catholic Writers Conference This Summer!SCHIFFER: I remember the first time I attended a CWG conference: �There, in person, were the popular Catholic writers whose books lined my shelves–and they were offering tips on working through a roadblock and approaching a publisher, sharing their own faith stories, teaching us how to maximize our use of social media. �There were panel discussions with editors and publishers, and pitch sessions for those who hoped to sell their manuscript. �And the fellowship! �The great interaction with other writers and soon-to-be writers over lunch! �The great liturgies! �The excitement of the exhibit hall, where the Catholic Marketing Network’s annual retailer trade show had assembled so many Catholic publishers and artisans and media outlets, all in one place!
Embattled Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate to receive house in Rome
Franciscans of the Immaculate to receive house in Rome :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): The Vatican has revealed that a house is being sought for members of the Friars of the Immaculate who study in Rome, and assured that Pope Francis is well-informed on the order’s temporary receivership.
In a statement released June 24, Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J. published the answer of Archbishop Jose Rodriguez Carballo addressing several questions regarding the Franciscans of the Immaculate following a June 10 meeting with Pope Francis.
In a statement released June 24, Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J. published the answer of Archbishop Jose Rodriguez Carballo addressing several questions regarding the Franciscans of the Immaculate following a June 10 meeting with Pope Francis.
Vatican makes it official: Adviser to be appointed for Legionaries of Christ
Vatican to Appoint Adviser for Legionaries of Christ | Daily News | NCRegister.com: The Vatican announced Wednesday that an adviser will be appointed to assist the Legionaries of Christ in the revision of their newly-drafted constitutions.
Having received numerous questions from journalists regarding the state of the Legionaries in light of the congregation’s recently concluded general chapter, Father Lombardi published the answers he received from speaking with Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz and Archbishop Jose Rodriguez Carballo, who are currently overseeing the process.
Having received numerous questions from journalists regarding the state of the Legionaries in light of the congregation’s recently concluded general chapter, Father Lombardi published the answers he received from speaking with Cardinal Joao Braz de Aviz and Archbishop Jose Rodriguez Carballo, who are currently overseeing the process.
A Farewell to Arms and Gary Cooper’s personal High Noon
A Farewell to Arms and Gary Cooper’s Personal High Noon - Crisis MagazineTURLEY: This month in London saw the re-release of A Farewell to Arms. The digitally restored classic is part of a series of movie releases marking the anniversary of the Great War.
Its source is Ernest Hemingway’s eponymous novel, published just three years prior to the film’s original 1932 release. The book is loosely based on the wartime experience of its author whilst serving as an ambulance driver in the Italian Campaign; the movie’s plot is in turn a loose adaptation of the novel.
Its source is Ernest Hemingway’s eponymous novel, published just three years prior to the film’s original 1932 release. The book is loosely based on the wartime experience of its author whilst serving as an ambulance driver in the Italian Campaign; the movie’s plot is in turn a loose adaptation of the novel.
10 things you need to know today: June 26, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 26, 2014 - The Week: Boehner says the GOP will sue Obama, the Supreme Court blocks warrantless cellphone searches, and more...
"Upon this rock": The readings for the upcoming Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul
The Sacred Page: "Upon this rock": The readings for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and PaulBARBER: It is solely by accident that I have the privilege of writing the reflection on the readings of the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. However, I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity.
The lectionary readings this Sunday climax with a selection from Matthew 16:13-19, a passage I have spent much time studying and writing about. Aside from treating it in a substantial way in my doctoral dissertation, I have also recently published
The lectionary readings this Sunday climax with a selection from Matthew 16:13-19, a passage I have spent much time studying and writing about. Aside from treating it in a substantial way in my doctoral dissertation, I have also recently published
What St. John Chrysostom can teach us about the paradoxical freedom of poverty
On the Paradoxical Freedom of Poverty as Taught by St. John Chrysostom � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: There is a saying that you cannot steal from a man who has nothing, and you cannot threaten a man who has nothing to lose. Of Jesus, the Son of Man who had no where to lay his head (Matt 8:20), this was surely true. The world had no claim on him, nothing to hook him or claim his loyalty. Even his life could not be taken from him for he had already laid it down freely (cf Jn 10:18).
St. John Chrysostom spoke of it boldly in a sermon that paints well the paradoxical freedom of poverty and the enslavement of riches and possessions. �More on that in a moment…
St. John Chrysostom spoke of it boldly in a sermon that paints well the paradoxical freedom of poverty and the enslavement of riches and possessions. �More on that in a moment…
U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejects abortion clinic buffer zones
Supreme Court unanimously rejects abortion clinic buffer zones :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): On June 26, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously struck down a Massachusetts state law that imposed a 35-foot buffer zone around abortion clinics, in which protestors and pro-life counselors could not enter to speak with patients.
The state's brief on the case argued that the law was “justified solely by legitimate government interests in public safety and health care access.”
However, pro-life challengers to the law said that it infringed upon their constitutionally-protected First Amendment right to the freedom of speech. They argued in a legal brief that the law “indiscriminately criminalizes even peaceful, consensual, non-obstructive conversation and leafleting” and that it unfairly targeted certain kinds of speech, namely, pro-life counseling and views.
The state's brief on the case argued that the law was “justified solely by legitimate government interests in public safety and health care access.”
However, pro-life challengers to the law said that it infringed upon their constitutionally-protected First Amendment right to the freedom of speech. They argued in a legal brief that the law “indiscriminately criminalizes even peaceful, consensual, non-obstructive conversation and leafleting” and that it unfairly targeted certain kinds of speech, namely, pro-life counseling and views.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
An interview with Toronto's Cardinal Collins on marriage, divorce and Communion
Fr. Robert Barron's Word On Fire - Marriage, Divorce, and Communion: An Interview with Cardinal Thomas CollinsVOGT: When Jesus was preaching in Galilee, divorce and remarriage was accepted in society. The law of Moses allowed for it (Deuteronomy 24:1-4). The teaching of Jesus that divorce and remarriage is not allowed was revolutionary. It was even an indication of his claim to divinity, for only God has the authority to over-rule the law of Moses. Jesus went back to creation itself for the foundation of the unbreakable bond of marriage between a man and a woman: "Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female' and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate" (Matthew 19: 1-12). In light of current controversies, it is also helpful to note that Jesus also asserts plainly something that until recently was obvious to everyone: marriage is between a man and a woman.
Does God love wolf spiders?
Does God Love Wolf Spiders? : The Integrated Catholic Life™TRASANCOS: Outside the other day, we saw a wolf spider, the big jumping kind that bite. True to their faith, which inspires them to be true to their scientific spirit, the kids asked questions. “Can he hurt us? How come God created wolf spiders? How is biting good? Does God love wolf spiders?” I knelt down and locked my mommy eyes with the spider’s steely ones, and I imagined just how hysterical the hysteria would become if this fuzzy creature did, in fact, jump on one of us. Then I did what any brave mommy would do. I told the kids to run.
A Lutheran chaplain's plea to restore Latin to the Mass
Restore Latin to the Mass | THE JAGGED WORDGLOVER: It’s been roughly 500 years since Martin Luther introduced the language of the people to the Mass – the Divine Liturgy of the Church. 500 years since the historic language of the Western Church was purged from the worship of God’s people. As a student of history, I understand why Luther thought this was necessary. Indeed, there is goodness in hearing and understanding the Liturgy in one’s native tongue. But Luther’s experiment with language should end. It’s time to restore Latin to the Mass of the Western Church. It’s time to reintroduce the language of the Church to her people.
There's a demonic dynamic in religion. I call it the Cain Syndrome...
Cain Lives: The Demonic Dynamic in ReligionLONGENECKER: One of the most discouraging things about religious life is to witness brothers fighting one another.
Why do so many religious people feel they have to attack their brothers in the faith?
Because there’s something sick going on within a lot of religious people and religious groups. I call it the Cain Syndrome.
Remember when Cain killed his brother Abel? Remember why?
Because God told them to make an animal sacrifice. Abel obeyed. Cain made an offering from the produce he had grown.
Why do so many religious people feel they have to attack their brothers in the faith?
Because there’s something sick going on within a lot of religious people and religious groups. I call it the Cain Syndrome.
Remember when Cain killed his brother Abel? Remember why?
Because God told them to make an animal sacrifice. Abel obeyed. Cain made an offering from the produce he had grown.
Missionaries are disappearing not just because we're indifferent. We've rendered ourselves speechless...
The Missionary PositionROYAL: Not that long ago, when you talked about the death of missionaries, it meant that they had met some sad end in a far-flung corner of the world. More recently, it means that no one much feels the need to “preach the Gospel to all nations” anymore – and that missionary work is essentially disappearing. Our modern Gospel is much simpler: We’re all basically good people already, aren’t we? So why can’t we respect and affirm one another’s lifestyles, and all just try and get along.
The Pope is Catholic. Catholic haters hate that about him...
The Pope is Catholic. Catholic Haters Hate That About Him.HAMILTON: Following Jesus without deviating will get you smeared every time.
I think it’s a rule of some sort, written by Satan a couple of thousand years ago.
It even happened to Jesus Himself when He walked this earth.
So … if somebody calls you names for following Him, say thank you. It’s always nice when someone notices your fidelity to Christ and pays it the ultimate compliment.
Pope Francis, who has been following right down the line on this Jesus thing, has drawn the usual verbal lightning down his own head by doing it. Just this morning, I read an article calling him, once again, a Communist for speaking out on behalf of the poor.
I think it’s a rule of some sort, written by Satan a couple of thousand years ago.
It even happened to Jesus Himself when He walked this earth.
So … if somebody calls you names for following Him, say thank you. It’s always nice when someone notices your fidelity to Christ and pays it the ultimate compliment.
Pope Francis, who has been following right down the line on this Jesus thing, has drawn the usual verbal lightning down his own head by doing it. Just this morning, I read an article calling him, once again, a Communist for speaking out on behalf of the poor.
10 things you need to know today: June 25, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 25, 2014 - The Week: Sen. Cochran fights off a Tea Party challenge, Putin urges an extension of Ukraine's cease-fire, and more...
Pope's Wednesday Audience: "We are Christians because of others, and together with others"
Being a Christian means belonging to the Church, Pope affirms :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In his general audience address Pope Francis drew attention to how God formed the Church to unify humanity, stating that no one is saved on their own, but rather through the help of others.
“Our identity is one of belonging. To say 'I am Christian' means to say: 'I belong to the Church.' I belong to this People with whom God established an ancient alliance that is always faithful” the Pope explained in his June 25 general audience address.
“Our identity is one of belonging. To say 'I am Christian' means to say: 'I belong to the Church.' I belong to this People with whom God established an ancient alliance that is always faithful” the Pope explained in his June 25 general audience address.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Springfield bishop: "Tabernacles are to be returned as soon as possible to the center of the sanctuary"
Ars celebrandi et adorandi - Diocese of Springfield in Illinois: With this in mind, in order that more of the faithful will be able to spend time in adoration and prayer in the presence of the Eucharistic Lord, I direct that in the churches and chapels of our diocese, tabernacles that were formerly in the center of the sanctuary, but have been moved, are to be returned as soon as possible to the center of the sanctuary in accord with the original architectural design. Tabernacles that are not in the center of the sanctuary or are otherwise not in a visible, prominent and noble space are to be moved to the center of the sanctuary; tabernacles that are not in the center of the sanctuary but are in a visible, prominent and noble space may remain.
This brave man dives into the world's biggest waves. What he captures on camera is spectacular...
This Brave Man Dives Into The World’s Biggest Waves. What He Captures On Camera Is Spectacular!: Clark Little’s photographs of the shorebreak are simply jaw-dropping! The surf photographer captures the stunning beauty of ocean waves from an entirely new perspective – inside the wave!
After looking at these 40 photographs of his work, you’ll be as awestruck as I am.
After looking at these 40 photographs of his work, you’ll be as awestruck as I am.
The real assault on the teaching authority of the Catholic Church is now coming from two gay billionaires
Marginalizing Catholic Teaching One Grant at a Time - Crisis MagazineHENDERSHOTT: George Soros’ Open Society Institute is most often blamed for attempting to neutralize the abortion issue for Catholics by donating large amounts of money to progressive organizations like Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good to promote pro-choice politicians. Yet the recent attack on San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Codileone by Faithful America demonstrates that the real assault on the teaching authority of the Catholic Church is now coming from two gay billionaires—Tim Gill and Jon Stryker—who are doing everything they can to discredit Church teaching on sexual morality by directly attacking the Magisterium.
Rules for dating my daughter
Rules For Dating My Daughter | CatholicVote.orgHOOPES: When I saw the buzzy Tumblr photo by Kristine Speare of her dad’s “Rules for Dating My Daughter” t-shirt, something bothered me about it.
I get why it is popular. The dad-joke that says “Sure, date my daughter. I’ll spend the time you’re out cleaning my gun,”� never resonated with me … and always seemed a little insulting. (And I was always glad I didn’t have to deal with that dad.)
But this guy makes a couple of critical errors. First, his “feminism” feels like a cop-out.
I get why it is popular. The dad-joke that says “Sure, date my daughter. I’ll spend the time you’re out cleaning my gun,”� never resonated with me … and always seemed a little insulting. (And I was always glad I didn’t have to deal with that dad.)
But this guy makes a couple of critical errors. First, his “feminism” feels like a cop-out.
First the bait, then the hook: A sober look at temptation...
First The Bait, then the Hook. A Sober Meditation on Temptation � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: Satan, it would seem, does not act in an arbitrary manner to tempt us. Rather, he is more of a master hunter who carefully sets traps, or a skilled fisherman who, having studied our behavior chooses just the bait he thinks most effective. He’s calculating, and clever.
Sadly most of us, by comparison, are far less calculating and clever in seeking to avoid temptation and sin. We seem more often to engage in the wishful thinking that no trouble will befall us, and our strategy seems to live more with dumb luck.
Sadly most of us, by comparison, are far less calculating and clever in seeking to avoid temptation and sin. We seem more often to engage in the wishful thinking that no trouble will befall us, and our strategy seems to live more with dumb luck.
Faith on the Move: Travel tips from a Catholic priest
Faith on the Move: Fr. Randy DollinsHENDEY: I’ve found many wonderful priests who seem to share my love of adventure. Today, we shine the “Faith on the Move” spotlight on Fr. Randy Dollins, a Catholic priest with a wonderful travel background and a great sense of adventure. While I haven’t met Fr. Dollins in person, he was recommended by my friend and fellow traveler Thomas Smith. I know you’ll love his responses below! Please note that this interview was conducted several months ago. Fr. Dollins has recently been assigned to serve as Moderator of the Curia and Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Denver. Although I know he’s busy in his new role, I’m sure his love of travel continues to be a source of inspiration.
Hate group's presence shocks attendees at funeral for slain priest
Hate group's presence shocks attendees at priest funeral :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Faithful who attended the funeral for Father Kenneth Walker were dismayed at the presence of picketers from the Westboro Baptist Church on June 20 near Paxico, Kansas.
As mourners filed into Sacred Heart Catholic Church, members of the hate group stood nearby holding signs and singing songs in order to broadcast their message.
As mourners filed into Sacred Heart Catholic Church, members of the hate group stood nearby holding signs and singing songs in order to broadcast their message.
A behind-the-scenes look at the New Advent website
My Interview With Kevin Knight, Humble King of the Catholic BlogosphereSCHIFFER: 1995 marked the birth of New Advent. With the help of volunteers (and yes, I was one of those volunteers, back in the mid-nineties, helping to type articles which would become part of the on-line edition), New Advent set out to digitize the Catholic Encyclopedia and the Summa Theologica, as well as the complete writings of the Early Church Fathers.
Got two minutes to see a master at work? Watch the great Chuck Jones draw Bugs Bunny...
Chuck Jones Draws Bugs Bunny | Mental Floss: "Depending upon what our budget is, we can use three, or two, whiskers. Today we'll be very generous." -Chunk Jones, showing us how to draw Bugs Bunny.
Got two and a half minutes to see the master at work? In this short clip from Chuck Amok: The Movie, animator Chuck Jones draws Bugs Bunny, with running commentary.
Got two and a half minutes to see the master at work? In this short clip from Chuck Amok: The Movie, animator Chuck Jones draws Bugs Bunny, with running commentary.
10 items you should always buy generic
HowStuffWorks "10 Items You Should Always Buy Generic": As of April 2014, the average family of four spends anywhere from $563.00 to $1,283.10 on food a month [source: USDA]. In this economy, we're looking for every possible way we can cut back. Yet many families still aren't interested in buying generic and store-brand products.
Despite plenty of proof that generics are comparable in every way to the high-priced items they're duplicating, only 84 percent of Americans bought even a single store-branded product in 2009.
Despite plenty of proof that generics are comparable in every way to the high-priced items they're duplicating, only 84 percent of Americans bought even a single store-branded product in 2009.
Revealed: Pope Francis secretly met with 60 Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate on June 10th...
The Pope speaks with the young Franciscans of the Immaculate - Vatican InsiderTORNIELLI: The meeting was held on Tuesday 10 June in the chapel of the Santa Marta Residence in the Vatican, despite the fact the Pope had been feeling under the weather and cancelled some appointments the previous day. For an hour and a half, Francis entertained around sixty Franciscans of the Immaculate, the order founded by father Stefano Manelli that last year the Holy See put under temporary receivership to resolve internal differences regarding the government, administration, relationship with the female branch and the use of the by new exclusive old missal and the interpretations of the last Council. Around forty seminarists, novitiates, and theology and philosophy students were present, along with their teachers and the pontifical commissioner, father Fidenzio Volpi...
The Vigil of St. John: Bonfires and witch burnings, solstices and snails
The Vigil of St. John: bonfires and witch burnings, solstices and snails | Fr. Z's BlogZUHLSDORF: It is nice to have as my patron the great Saint John the Baptist, for I get two feasts a year: his Nativity and his Beheading.
For the Vigil of St. John in the old Roman Ritual the priest would once bless bonfires.
And in Bavaria, witches are burned, so if you have any unwanted witches, send them to Bavaria next year for a nice vacation...
For the Vigil of St. John in the old Roman Ritual the priest would once bless bonfires.
And in Bavaria, witches are burned, so if you have any unwanted witches, send them to Bavaria next year for a nice vacation...
Pope to take unusual step of adding extra adviser to help oversee Legion of Christ
Vatican to Name New Adviser to Oversee Legion - ABC News: The Vatican next week will name a new adviser to help oversee the Legion of Christ religious order in the latest sign that Pope Francis doubts the Vatican's three-year reform experiment has resolved all the problems in the troubled congregation, officials said Tuesday.
Francis has kept the Legion at arms' length since he inherited the reform project launched after the Legion admitted in 2009 that its founder sexually abused his seminarians and fathered three children.
Francis has yet to meet with the new superior and didn't send a message to the congregation when it met earlier this year to chart its new course, as he has done with other congregations. The Vatican insisted on naming two members of the Legion's new governing body and during his recent trip to Jerusalem, Francis skipped a luncheon planned by the Legion and ate instead with the Franciscans.
Francis has kept the Legion at arms' length since he inherited the reform project launched after the Legion admitted in 2009 that its founder sexually abused his seminarians and fathered three children.
Francis has yet to meet with the new superior and didn't send a message to the congregation when it met earlier this year to chart its new course, as he has done with other congregations. The Vatican insisted on naming two members of the Legion's new governing body and during his recent trip to Jerusalem, Francis skipped a luncheon planned by the Legion and ate instead with the Franciscans.
Tuesday is the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Baptist: The principal sources of information concerning the life and ministry of St. John the Baptist are the canonical Gospels. Of these St. Luke is the most complete, giving as he does the wonderful circumstances accompanying the birth of the Precursor and items on his ministry and death.
Meriam Ibrahim, freed after death sentence, re-arrested by 40 "agents of fear" at Sudan airport
Sudanese woman sentenced to death re-arrested :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): After having her death sentence for refusing to renounce her Christian faith revoked by the Sudanese court yesterday, Meriam Ibrahim has been re-arrested along with her husband at an airport.
According to BBC, close to 40 security officers detained Ibrahim along with her husband, Daniel Wani, and their two children Tuesday at an airport in Sudan’s capitol while attempting to leave the country.
Further details regarding the reasons why the couple were arrested have not been made available.
According to BBC, close to 40 security officers detained Ibrahim along with her husband, Daniel Wani, and their two children Tuesday at an airport in Sudan’s capitol while attempting to leave the country.
Further details regarding the reasons why the couple were arrested have not been made available.
10 things you need to know today: June 24, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 24, 2014 - The Week: Kerry says Iraq will form a new government, 168 children are freed after a sex-trafficking crackdown, and more...
Monday, June 23, 2014
Why UC-Davis' new study of free will is horse patootie...
Why UC-Davis’ New Study of Free Will Is Horse PatootieSCHIFFER: Some argue that the theory is a one-dimensional approach to understanding human behavior, and that behavioral theories do not account for free will and internal influences such as moods, thoughts and feelings. �Some note that behaviorism fails to account for other types of learning, especially learning that occurs without the use of reinforcement (i.e., food pellets for Pavlov’s dogs) and punishment (i.e., electric shocks). � And scientists admit that both people and animals are able to adapt their behavior when new information is introduced, even if a previous behavior pattern has been established through reinforcement.
A reader struggles with despair over quarrelsome Catholics
A reader struggles with despair over quarrelsome Catholics |Blogs | NCRegister.comSHEA: As one of the patients and emphatically not one of the doctors on the ward, my own inspirations have come in two forms. First, was the realization (still very imperfectly lived) that people want butter a lot more than they want guns. So the command given to Peter was "Feed my sheep", not "defend my sheep". As somebody who is always a sucker for "I'm defending the defenseless" when I'm indulging my anger, that drew me up short when the Holy Spirit hit me between the eyes with it last Christmas. But it's been dripping into my bloodstream with each Eucharist for six months anyway and I'm becoming more aware of just how crummy I am at measuring up to it.
Change the world by changing yourself
Changing the World By Changing Yourself | Prayer and PerspectiveHINKEL: Carol staggered through the overcrowded streets in Pattaya, Thailand, deeply troubled by what she witnessed: bar after bar where women could be bought and sold as slaves for sexual desire. She witnessed black magic, drug use, intoxication—the smell of evil. She even witnessed a three year old offered for prostitution. This experience inspired her to begin a ministry aimed at rescuing young women from such a hopeless life of enslavement.
Heartening new CARA study shows that a strong Catholic culture on campus produces vocations...
A culture of priestly vocation on campusMULDOON: The report speaks for itself, so I will not repeat all its findings here. It will be of particular interest to bishops, vocation directors, Catholic college presidents, and directors of Catholic campus ministries. What I wish to highlight here is a specific point that emerges from the report: namely, the question of the extent to which campuses promote a culture of vocations.
What is a culture of vocations? I point to two recent stories in the mainstream media which highlight examples. The first is in southern Louisiana and the second is in rural Michigan. In both places, the number of young men choosing to be priests is much higher than the national average. And while there are clearly many variables in the path of discernment to priestly life, what is clear is that it does not happen without encouragement of others. Catholic families, schools, parishes, and colleges all play a role.
What is a culture of vocations? I point to two recent stories in the mainstream media which highlight examples. The first is in southern Louisiana and the second is in rural Michigan. In both places, the number of young men choosing to be priests is much higher than the national average. And while there are clearly many variables in the path of discernment to priestly life, what is clear is that it does not happen without encouragement of others. Catholic families, schools, parishes, and colleges all play a role.
Pope Francis, between spin doctors and the Gospel
MondayVatican – Vatican � Pope Francis, between spin doctors and the Gospel | MondayVaticanGAGLIARDUCCI: As the establishing of a Secretariat for Communication among the offices of the Roman Curia seems imminent, the closing of a missionary magazine has again led to questions about the very communication of faith to the peripheries of the world, Pope Francis’ favorite theme. While communications are ever more professionalized (a needed professionalization, indeed) the missionary ideal is always more impoverished. It is paradoxical, considering that Pope Francis has said time and again – and even put it in writing in the exhortation Evangelii Gaudium – that the Church must be in a state of permanent mission.
Cardinal DiNardo, impact investing, financial reform, and the Pope's "health scare"...
‘Health scare’ confirms Pope Francis as church’s indispensable man - World - The Boston GlobeALLEN: An old saying about the Vatican holds that the pope is never sick until he’s dead. It is a subject — pontiff’s health — on which Vatican officials come by their reputation for denial the old-fashioned way, because over the years they’ve certainly earned it.
On Aug. 19, 1914, for instance, the semiofficial Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano published a stinging editorial denouncing unnamed commentators who had suggested the day before that the reigning pope at the time, Pius X, was suffering from a cold.
Less than 24 hours later, Pius X was dead.
On Aug. 19, 1914, for instance, the semiofficial Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano published a stinging editorial denouncing unnamed commentators who had suggested the day before that the reigning pope at the time, Pius X, was suffering from a cold.
Less than 24 hours later, Pius X was dead.
Meriam Ibrahim, sentenced to death for refusing to renounce Christianity, freed by Sudanese government
BBC News - Sudan death sentence woman 'freed': A Sudanese woman sentenced to death for abandoning her Islamic faith has been freed from jail, her lawyer has told the BBC.
Meriam Ibrahim's death penalty was overturned by an appeal court, the official Suna news agency reported.
She is married to a Christian man and was sentenced under Sharia law to hang for apostasy in May after refusing to renounce Christianity.
Her husband, Daniel Wani, said he was looking forward to seeing her.
Meriam Ibrahim's death penalty was overturned by an appeal court, the official Suna news agency reported.
She is married to a Christian man and was sentenced under Sharia law to hang for apostasy in May after refusing to renounce Christianity.
Her husband, Daniel Wani, said he was looking forward to seeing her.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Pope's Sunday Angelus: "Jesus came into the world not just to give us something, but to give Himself"
God's immeasurable love transforms lives, emphasizes Pope :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In his Sunday Angelus today Pope Francis stressed the limitless nature of God’s love that transforms the heart and life of every Christian.
“One cannot measure the love of God: it is without measure. And so we become capable of loving even those who don’t love us: and this is not easy,” the Pope said to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square on June 22.
His reflections followed Sunday’s reading from the gospel of John in which Jesus proclaims himself to be the “living bread sent from heaven.”
“One cannot measure the love of God: it is without measure. And so we become capable of loving even those who don’t love us: and this is not easy,” the Pope said to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square on June 22.
His reflections followed Sunday’s reading from the gospel of John in which Jesus proclaims himself to be the “living bread sent from heaven.”
10 maps that show how much time Americans spend grooming, eating, thinking and praying
10 maps that show how much time Americans spend grooming, eating, thinking and praying - The Washington Post: The American Time Use Survey is a treasure trove of data for understanding how Americans spend their days. The survey is essentially a national diary of how we work, play, sleep and even groom ourselves. The data can be parsed at the state level too. Below are 10 maps showing the sometimes surprising regional variation in American time use.
A couple things to understand about the BLS data. The first is that "average time per day" spent on any given activity is a bit of a statistical construct. "Estimates are an average across all persons in the given population, whether or not they did the activity," the BLS explains.
A couple things to understand about the BLS data. The first is that "average time per day" spent on any given activity is a bit of a statistical construct. "Estimates are an average across all persons in the given population, whether or not they did the activity," the BLS explains.
This year marks the 750th anniversary of Corpus Christi becoming a universal feast in the Western Church
CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: Feast of Corpus Christi: The instrument in the hand of Divine Providence was St. Juliana of Mont Cornillon, in Belgium. She was born in 1193 at Retines near Liège. Orphaned at an early age, she was educated by the Augustinian nuns of Mont Cornillon. Here she in time made her religious profession and later became superioress. Intrigues of various kinds several times drove her from her convent. She died 5 April, 1258, at the House of the Cistercian nuns at Fosses, and was buried at Villiers.
The Faith Movement is a great sign of hope for Catholicism in the U.K. and worldwide...
The Cross on the Carn: The Faith Movement: Here's why your parish priest travels great long distances every summer and winter. You might be able to spot one or two of our young parishioners.
The Faith Movement's mission is to show how true faith completes reason - how our religion is actually vindicated through science. �It is surely a great sign of hope for Catholicism in the U.K. - and the world! �
The Faith Movement's mission is to show how true faith completes reason - how our religion is actually vindicated through science. �It is surely a great sign of hope for Catholicism in the U.K. - and the world! �
About the AP's left-footed retraction of their Irish septic tank story
Truth Sifting to the Top 2: AP Retracts False Accusations Made in Babies Buried in Septic Tank StoryHAMILTON: I’m writing back to back truth-sifting-to-the-top posts today.
It happens that way sometimes. The truth, after a loud cacophony of untruths, will suddenly start sifting to the top all at once.
It seems that the story of Irish nuns having dumped 700 baby bodies into a septic tank is just that: A story. Or rather, a hoax. Or, to put it bluntly the invention of an anti-Catholic press looking for anything at all to be turned into another scandalizing story about the Church.
It happens that way sometimes. The truth, after a loud cacophony of untruths, will suddenly start sifting to the top all at once.
It seems that the story of Irish nuns having dumped 700 baby bodies into a septic tank is just that: A story. Or rather, a hoax. Or, to put it bluntly the invention of an anti-Catholic press looking for anything at all to be turned into another scandalizing story about the Church.
What exactly does "excommunication" mean anyhow?
What is “Excommunication” Anyhow?LONGENECKER: After the Pope’s harsh words about the mafia, with “Excommunication” screaming across the headlines–what exactly is excommunication?
In the public’s eye it is the strict face of Catholicism. This is the disciplinary arm of the church and echoes of the Middle Ages are heard: a time in which Popes issued solemn bulls of excommunication cutting off disobedient monarchs and threatening excommunication to all their subjects.
The simple definition is that excommunication is to put someone out of communion with the church. They are outside the Body of Christ and therefore are not entitled to receive the Body of Christ at Mass.
In the public’s eye it is the strict face of Catholicism. This is the disciplinary arm of the church and echoes of the Middle Ages are heard: a time in which Popes issued solemn bulls of excommunication cutting off disobedient monarchs and threatening excommunication to all their subjects.
The simple definition is that excommunication is to put someone out of communion with the church. They are outside the Body of Christ and therefore are not entitled to receive the Body of Christ at Mass.
12 words from St. John Vianney to the 21st century on Corpus Christi
12 Words from St. John Vianney to the 21st Century on Corpus Christi | TOM PERNA™PERNA: Today, in the Western lung of the Catholic Church, we celebrate the great Solemnity of Corpus Christi – the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. We commemorate the great sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, a sacrament that Jesus Christ gave to us on the night before he died during the Last Supper with the Apostles. The Holy Eucharist is the Sacrament of all sacraments!
Top 10 silly but awesome products that can make your life easier
Top 10 Silly but Awesome Products That Make Life Easier: There are a lot of gadgets and gizmos out there that make your life easier. Some, however, are a little sillier than others—so much that they seem like joke products. Here are a few gadgets and products that sound crazy, but actually rule.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Stand firm at the middle ground, where the Cross is planted and where martyrs are made...
The Middle Ground - Blog - Real Life CatholicSTEFANICK: It’s becoming ever more dangerous to stand in defense of a definition of marriage that is rooted in natural law, divine law, and the good of children rather than a definition that is based solely on the affection of two consenting adults.
So what do we do when we’re the target of hate? There are two “safe” options, and I see countless Catholics retreating to each of them. One is the far “left”: to simply “come down from that cross” and stop addressing the issue. Stop offering cogent defenses for our sexual ethics and teachings about marriage—and not because the world has stopped asking questions, but rather because we think it’s more loving to avoid conflict, or we are afraid. The second option is the far “right”: to see the Church as a fortress designed to keep the “sinners” out (as if we aren’t all sinners!), and to become angry and entrenched.
So what do we do when we’re the target of hate? There are two “safe” options, and I see countless Catholics retreating to each of them. One is the far “left”: to simply “come down from that cross” and stop addressing the issue. Stop offering cogent defenses for our sexual ethics and teachings about marriage—and not because the world has stopped asking questions, but rather because we think it’s more loving to avoid conflict, or we are afraid. The second option is the far “right”: to see the Church as a fortress designed to keep the “sinners” out (as if we aren’t all sinners!), and to become angry and entrenched.
Timelapse footage records the formation of a supercell storm in Kansas
Supercell Thunderstorm Timelapses �TwistedSifter: A supercell is a thunderstorm that is characterized by the presence of a mesocyclone: a deep, persistently rotating updraft. Of the four classifications of thunderstorms (supercell, squall line, multi-cell, and single-cell), supercells are the least common and have the potential to be the most severe. Supercells are often isolated from other thunderstorms, and can dominate the local climate up to 32 kilometres (20 mi) away.
Are you a mouse or a man? A homily for the Feast of Corpus Christi...
Are You a Mouse or A Man? A Homily for The Feast of Corpus Christi � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: This Sunday in many places features the (moved) Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Our Lord.
While you may puzzle over my title, allow me to explain it later. On a Solemn feast like this many things occur that might be preached and taught. Allow three areas for reflection: The Reality of the Eucharist, The Requirement of the Eucharist, the Remembrance of the Eucharist. We will look at each in order.
While you may puzzle over my title, allow me to explain it later. On a Solemn feast like this many things occur that might be preached and taught. Allow three areas for reflection: The Reality of the Eucharist, The Requirement of the Eucharist, the Remembrance of the Eucharist. We will look at each in order.
Pope Francis calls mobsters "adorers of evil", says "the Mafia is excommunicated"
Whispers in the Loggia: In Calabria, The Pope's Hit – "The Mafia Is Excommunicated"PALMO: Even as today's papal visit to Cassano all'Ionio saw Francis deliver moving messages to prisoners and priests alike, as expected, the day's headline came elsewhere.
Closing out the daylong trek with a Mass – in a rarity for pontifical liturgies, a Sunday vigil – along the shore of the Ionian Sea, the Pope tackled the area's tormented legacy of organized crime, declaring that 'ndrangheta, the locally-based syndicate widely thought to be Italy's most feared Mafia branch, "is this: the adoration of evil and contempt of the common good."
Closing out the daylong trek with a Mass – in a rarity for pontifical liturgies, a Sunday vigil – along the shore of the Ionian Sea, the Pope tackled the area's tormented legacy of organized crime, declaring that 'ndrangheta, the locally-based syndicate widely thought to be Italy's most feared Mafia branch, "is this: the adoration of evil and contempt of the common good."
Associated Press apologizes for its coverage of the Irish orphanage story
Associated Press Apologizes for Its Coverage of the Irish Orphanage StorySCHIFFER: Associated Press has issued an apology for its errant reporting regarding claims of a mass grave for children of unwed mothers on the grounds of Tuam Home, an Irish home for unwed mothers.
Since the disturbing story broke early this month regarding the Tuam Home for unwed mothers in Ireland, where 796 babies were purportedly “dumped into a septic tank”, �the Patheos bloggers have been on the case.
I had, early on, been concerned that the facts might not be as reported. �I didn’t blog about it here, but over on Facebook, we had a spirited discussion in which I encouraged people to relax and wait for facts: �Had the Irish Sisters been simply overwhelmed, with no one available to help them bury the bodies of the children who died? �Was the burial site, in fact, not a “septic tank” as AP reported, but a cylindrical brick burial chamber, common in Ireland at the time? �Were there really “no more than 20″ babies buried at that site?
Since the disturbing story broke early this month regarding the Tuam Home for unwed mothers in Ireland, where 796 babies were purportedly “dumped into a septic tank”, �the Patheos bloggers have been on the case.
I had, early on, been concerned that the facts might not be as reported. �I didn’t blog about it here, but over on Facebook, we had a spirited discussion in which I encouraged people to relax and wait for facts: �Had the Irish Sisters been simply overwhelmed, with no one available to help them bury the bodies of the children who died? �Was the burial site, in fact, not a “septic tank” as AP reported, but a cylindrical brick burial chamber, common in Ireland at the time? �Were there really “no more than 20″ babies buried at that site?
The core document for October's Extraordinary Synod finally has its publication date
Whispers in the Loggia: For the Synod, The Baseline ComethPALMO: After months of anticipation – and, in no shortage of parts elsewhere, presumptions and agitation galore – the core document for October's Extraordinary Synod finally has its pub-date.
Its drafting guided by the questionnaire circulated worldwide by the Holy See last fall, earlier today it emerged that the instrumentum laboris for the assembly on "the pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization" will be released next Thursday, 26 June, with a midday press conference featuring the meeting's key officials, led by the Pope's hand-picked Synod chief, Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri.
Its drafting guided by the questionnaire circulated worldwide by the Holy See last fall, earlier today it emerged that the instrumentum laboris for the assembly on "the pastoral challenges of the family in the context of evangelization" will be released next Thursday, 26 June, with a midday press conference featuring the meeting's key officials, led by the Pope's hand-picked Synod chief, Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri.
10 things you need to know today: June 21, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 21, 2014 - The Week: The Obama administration addresses illegal immigration, an Egyptian court sentences more than 180 to death, and more...
Pope to priests: The remedy for "pastoral individualism" in a diocese is "the choice of brotherhood"
Pope encourages priests to work in joy, brotherhood :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): During his one day his visit to Italian town Cassano all'Jonio, Pope Francis met with the priests of the diocese, speaking of the joy of the priesthood, but also of the dangers of an individualistic culture.
“I would first of all like to share with you the joy of being priests. The ever new surprise of having been called by the Lord Jesus. Called to follow him, to be with him, to go to others bringing him, his word, his forgiveness,” the Pope stated in his June 21 address to the priests.
“I would first of all like to share with you the joy of being priests. The ever new surprise of having been called by the Lord Jesus. Called to follow him, to be with him, to go to others bringing him, his word, his forgiveness,” the Pope stated in his June 21 address to the priests.
Pope arrives in Calabria for one-day visit, meets prisoners and victims of Mafia violence
God is a 'master of reintegration,' Pope assures prisoners :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In the first major meeting of his 12-hour pastoral visit to the Calabria region of southern Italy today, Pope Francis spoke to the inmates and staff of the district prison about the importance of re-integration, accomplished through both human and divine action.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Enough with hanging out and hooking up. We’re grown men and women, and we all deserve better...
Dear single dudes: it's time to man up | The Matt Walsh Blog: We are devolving into primates, losing the ability to even discuss our own behavior using words and sentences. The average single American man is now relegated to grunts and shrugs and ‘whatevers’ and ‘you knows’ when pressed to have a conversation about his dating habits. Or his vicinity habits. Or his whatever habits, because whatever, you know?
‘Hanging out’ is how we describe what we do with our buddies. Is that what you want? Do you want that beautiful woman to be your buddy? Or would you ideally prefer it if you could distinguish between your relationship with her and your relationship with your friend Steve?
‘Hanging out’ is how we describe what we do with our buddies. Is that what you want? Do you want that beautiful woman to be your buddy? Or would you ideally prefer it if you could distinguish between your relationship with her and your relationship with your friend Steve?
10 scientific ideas that scientists wish you would stop misusing
10 Scientific Ideas That Scientists Wish You Would Stop Misusing: Many ideas have left the world of science and made their way into everyday language — and unfortunately, they are almost always used incorrectly. We asked a group of scientists to tell us which scientific terms they believe are the most widely misunderstood. Here are ten of them.
Why is soccer called "soccer" in some English-speaking countries?
Why Americans Call Soccer 'Soccer' - Uri Friedman - The Atlantic: New Zealand's largest newspaper is deeply conflicted. With the World Cup underway in Brazil, should The New Zealand Herald refer to the "global round-ball game" as "soccer" or "football"? The question has been put to readers, and the readers have spoken. It's "football"—by a wide margin.
We in the U.S., of course, would disagree. And now we have a clearer understanding of why. In May, Stefan Szymanski, a sports economist at the University of Michigan, published a paper debunking the notion that "soccer" is a semantically bizarre American invention. In fact, it's a British import. And the Brits used it often—until, that is, it became too much of an Americanism for British English to bear.
We in the U.S., of course, would disagree. And now we have a clearer understanding of why. In May, Stefan Szymanski, a sports economist at the University of Michigan, published a paper debunking the notion that "soccer" is a semantically bizarre American invention. In fact, it's a British import. And the Brits used it often—until, that is, it became too much of an Americanism for British English to bear.
In the footsteps of the saints of France
Beginning to Pray: In the footsteps of the saints of FranceLILLES: The day after Pentecost, Fifty-two of us chiefly from the Shrine of Saint Anne in Colorado but also from other parts of the USA started in Paris. �In 1834 on Rue de Bac Mary appeared to one of the spiritual daughters of St. Vincent de Paul. � She had grown up as in a peasant farming family just after an era in which the French Catholic World was turned upside down. �Part of our pilgrimage in the footsteps of the saints of France was dedicated to understanding the spiritual explosion that Saint Catherine's obedience to The Lord ignited in the 19th Century.
It's becoming harder for a cake baker to leave his customer than for a husband to leave his wife
Love Weaker than CommerceBECKWITH: Up until very recently, marriage had been universally thought of as consisting of three essential characteristics: conjugality, permanence, and exclusivity. This had been more or less reflected in our laws.
Conjugality refers to the way by which a marriage is consummated: coitus between the male and female spouses. Permanence means that the marriage cannot be dissolved (or annulled) unless certain specific conditions are met or one of the partners dies. Exclusivity refers to the sexual relationship and means that neither party in the marriage is free to engage in extra-marital intimacies.
Even polygamous unions may fulfill these criteria, for the husband is married to each wife while the women are not married to each other and thus do not have “wives.” For this reason, upon the husband’s death, each of the marriages in a polygamous cluster is immediately dissolved.
Conjugality refers to the way by which a marriage is consummated: coitus between the male and female spouses. Permanence means that the marriage cannot be dissolved (or annulled) unless certain specific conditions are met or one of the partners dies. Exclusivity refers to the sexual relationship and means that neither party in the marriage is free to engage in extra-marital intimacies.
Even polygamous unions may fulfill these criteria, for the husband is married to each wife while the women are not married to each other and thus do not have “wives.” For this reason, upon the husband’s death, each of the marriages in a polygamous cluster is immediately dissolved.
Pope Francis and the diplomacy of the impossible
Francis: Or, the Diplomacy of the ImpossibleMAGISTER: Francis has placed back at the head of the secretariat of state a thoroughbred diplomat, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. But with him as pope, the face of Vatican geopolitics has changed.
The war of the worlds fought and won by a giant like John Paul II is now a distant memory. In an age of personalized conflicts, of despots, of armed factions, of fractured and failed states, even diplomacy is becoming personalized, becoming "artisanal," as Pope Francis himself likes to put it. His Argentina is not Poland, where the dictatorship was opposed by a Church of the people, solid and faithful. Under the heel of the military rulers the Argentine Church was confused and divided. The young Jesuit Jorge Mario Bergoglio acted according to his own judgment, in secret and sovereign solitude.
The war of the worlds fought and won by a giant like John Paul II is now a distant memory. In an age of personalized conflicts, of despots, of armed factions, of fractured and failed states, even diplomacy is becoming personalized, becoming "artisanal," as Pope Francis himself likes to put it. His Argentina is not Poland, where the dictatorship was opposed by a Church of the people, solid and faithful. Under the heel of the military rulers the Argentine Church was confused and divided. The young Jesuit Jorge Mario Bergoglio acted according to his own judgment, in secret and sovereign solitude.
A former Mormon explains what becoming Catholic means to her...
A Former "Heretic" on Trinity Sunday - AleteiaLU: Last week the Mormon missionaries stopped by looking for me. This hadn’t happened in awhile, but it’s not an unfamiliar experience. Five years ago I formally petitioned to have my name removed from the LDS Church’s membership records, and after that I didn’t hear from them for a while. But eventually the mail started coming again. And now there were these white-shirted 20-year-olds on my doorstep asking for me.
I invited them in. They declined, citing the “three man rule”. (They’re not supposed to be alone with women unless another man is on the premises.) So we stood awkwardly in the doorway while I explained that the reason they never saw me at church was that I had apostatized from the Mormon faith some years before, and was now a practicing Catholic.
I invited them in. They declined, citing the “three man rule”. (They’re not supposed to be alone with women unless another man is on the premises.) So we stood awkwardly in the doorway while I explained that the reason they never saw me at church was that I had apostatized from the Mormon faith some years before, and was now a practicing Catholic.
The fourth commandment is among the greatest mercies you will ever know
Fathers, Children, and the Mercy of the Fourth Commandment | Seton MagazineCLARK: There is an apocryphal quote attributed to Mark Twain that observes that when Twain was 18 years old, he thought his father was the dumbest man alive. When he turned 21, he thought his father was among the wisest. And he wondered how his father had learned so much in just three short years.
Of course, the irony is that his father changed little—it was the son who really changed. Whoever actually made this observation, he was speaking for many of those who slowly, and often reluctantly, realize the wisdom of their fathers. And the recognition of fatherly wisdom is the often the starting point of our real maturity. Sadly, many children never get to Twain’s magical age of 21—allegorically the time in which they see the wisdom of their fathers.
Of course, the irony is that his father changed little—it was the son who really changed. Whoever actually made this observation, he was speaking for many of those who slowly, and often reluctantly, realize the wisdom of their fathers. And the recognition of fatherly wisdom is the often the starting point of our real maturity. Sadly, many children never get to Twain’s magical age of 21—allegorically the time in which they see the wisdom of their fathers.
When I left my Baptist seminary, I cannot stress enough how much I hated the idea of becoming Catholic...
I Hated the Idea of Becoming Catholic - Aleteia: It was the day after Ash Wednesday in 2012 when I called my mom from my dorm room at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and told her I thought I was going to become Catholic.
“You’re not going to become Catholic, you just know you’re not Southern Baptist,” she said.
“No, I don’t think so.”
A pause. “Oh boy,” she sighed.
I started crying.
I cannot stress enough how much I hated the idea of becoming Catholic. I was bargaining to the last moment. I submitted a sermon for a competition days before withdrawing from school. I was memorizing Psalm 119 to convince myself of sola scriptura. I set up meetings with professors to hear the best arguments. I purposefully read Protestant books about Catholicism, rather than books by Catholic authors.
“You’re not going to become Catholic, you just know you’re not Southern Baptist,” she said.
“No, I don’t think so.”
A pause. “Oh boy,” she sighed.
I started crying.
I cannot stress enough how much I hated the idea of becoming Catholic. I was bargaining to the last moment. I submitted a sermon for a competition days before withdrawing from school. I was memorizing Psalm 119 to convince myself of sola scriptura. I set up meetings with professors to hear the best arguments. I purposefully read Protestant books about Catholicism, rather than books by Catholic authors.
Those who want a Muslim reformation overlook the fact that it's already here. It's called "Radical Islam"...
PJ Media � Islam’s ‘Protestant Reformation’: In order to prevent a clash of civilizations, or worse, Islam must reform. �This is the contention of many Western peoples. And, pointing to Christianity’s Protestant Reformation as proof that Islam can also reform, many are optimistic.
Overlooked by most, however, is that Islam has been reforming. What is today called “radical Islam” is the reformation of Islam. And it follows the same pattern of Christianity’s Protestant Reformation.
The problem is our understanding of the word “reform.”� Despite its positive connotations, “reform” simply means to “make changes (in something, typically a social, political, or economic institution or practice) in order to improve it.”
Overlooked by most, however, is that Islam has been reforming. What is today called “radical Islam” is the reformation of Islam. And it follows the same pattern of Christianity’s Protestant Reformation.
The problem is our understanding of the word “reform.”� Despite its positive connotations, “reform” simply means to “make changes (in something, typically a social, political, or economic institution or practice) in order to improve it.”
In a contraceptive culture, should the heavy reliance on ADHD medications surprise us?
Are ADHD Medications Merely a Post-Contraceptive Control? | Truth & Charity The Intersection of Faith & LifeANDREWSCIBA: I recently read an article detailing the results of a CDC study that found more than 10,000 American toddlers are on ADHD medication. �Mind you, these are 2 and 3 year-old children who are being medicated for uncontrolled behavior. �This is revealed in the beginning of the column and what follows is not a discussion on what normal child behavior is or should be, but medical opinions and statistics that weigh the general health risks that amphetamines like Adderall cause to tiny, tiny people. �It’s all very interesting and you should consider reading it if you’re interested in something other than the problem at hand.
7 habits of divinely inspired evangelizers as taught by the Lord Himself
Seven Disciplines of Evangelization � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: The Lord Jesus sets forth a �plan for evangelization that is not just some sort of haphazard, shoot from the hip program in which he wanders about aimlessly. Rather, he had a plan to visit specific cities at specific times. And for each visit, He sent an entourage ahead of Him to prepare the town for His visit and to arrange for the necessary preliminaries. The texts says quite clearly, At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit
Pope Francis: "Drug addiction is an evil, and with evil there can be no yielding or compromise"
Pope: problem of drug use is not solved by other drugs :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In a message for an international conference on enforcing drug laws, Pope Francis denounced the trend of offering addicts narcotics as a substitute for hard drugs, stating that it only worsens the problem.
“Let me state this in the clearest terms possible: the problem of drug use is not solved with drugs! Drug addiction is an evil, and with evil there can be no yielding or compromise” the Pope declared in his June 20 message to the conference participants.
“To think that harm can be reduced by permitting drug addicts to use narcotics in no way resolves the problem” he said, adding that “Attempts, however limited, to legalize so-called ‘recreational drugs,’ are not only highly questionable from a legislative standpoint, but they fail to produce the desired effects.”
“Let me state this in the clearest terms possible: the problem of drug use is not solved with drugs! Drug addiction is an evil, and with evil there can be no yielding or compromise” the Pope declared in his June 20 message to the conference participants.
“To think that harm can be reduced by permitting drug addicts to use narcotics in no way resolves the problem” he said, adding that “Attempts, however limited, to legalize so-called ‘recreational drugs,’ are not only highly questionable from a legislative standpoint, but they fail to produce the desired effects.”
10 things you need to know today: June 20, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 20, 2014 - The Week: Obama sends 300 military advisers to Iraq, House Republicans pick Boehner ally as majority leader, and more...
Thursday, June 19, 2014
I didn't want to live anymore, then I met Jesus in the Holy Eucharist
I Didn't Want to Live Anymore, Then I Met Him... - Aleteia: Today is the feast of Corpus Christi: the Holy Body of Christ.
There was a time, not too long ago, when I thought all was lost in my life and I couldn’t go on living any more. It was the Body of Christ that saved me.
I was raised in a pretty normal albeit free-range family. My mum was Catholic so raised us in the faith. I was really close to my family, I had great friends and a happy and easy school life. I had a strong faith and sense of morality, which kept me firm and grounded as a young adult. In other words, life was good.
I went to Peru after high school and lived with some sisters in a shantytown on the outskirts of Lima, where I worked as a missionary in the community. It was a fantastic experience, and I went to mass daily, which took me further along in my faith, even if - although I didn’t realise at the time – something fundamental was missing.
There was a time, not too long ago, when I thought all was lost in my life and I couldn’t go on living any more. It was the Body of Christ that saved me.
I was raised in a pretty normal albeit free-range family. My mum was Catholic so raised us in the faith. I was really close to my family, I had great friends and a happy and easy school life. I had a strong faith and sense of morality, which kept me firm and grounded as a young adult. In other words, life was good.
I went to Peru after high school and lived with some sisters in a shantytown on the outskirts of Lima, where I worked as a missionary in the community. It was a fantastic experience, and I went to mass daily, which took me further along in my faith, even if - although I didn’t realise at the time – something fundamental was missing.
The miracle of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen
The Miracle of Fulton J. Sheen: God has friends in places little connected with Him in the public mind. Would you believe an American proposed for official sainthood whose prime time television show brought him an emmy— for talking about God yet?
TV star Fulton John Sheen’s heroic virtue was recognized with the title Venerable in June 2012. You know well by now that it is God’s approval through a miracle that permits a beatification. In this Cause miracles seem in good supply. So beatification could come soon. When it does Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen may have the distinction of ending up with not just one shrine but two.
TV star Fulton John Sheen’s heroic virtue was recognized with the title Venerable in June 2012. You know well by now that it is God’s approval through a miracle that permits a beatification. In this Cause miracles seem in good supply. So beatification could come soon. When it does Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen may have the distinction of ending up with not just one shrine but two.
Cheer along with me: CNA joins the EWTN family...
Cheer Along with Me: CNA Joins the EWTN Family |Blogs | NCRegister.comREINHARD: It’s an exciting news day for Catholic news hounds. EWTN has announced that Catholic News Agency and ACI Prensa Group will be joining its family of services.�
CNA has long been a go-to site for me when it comes to Catholic news, and I’m a big EWTN fangirl.
With CNA, you have Catholic news that’s faithful and reliable and cutting edge. Light on spin, heavy on fact. And interesting news that you don’t find other places. It’s worldwide, but it’s honed in on topic. You didn’t think there was anything Catholic-newsworthy going on? Think again.
EWTN is the name in Catholic media. Any prayer you need (or Catholic topic researched), it’s there: TV stations, devotions, websites, apps, radio programming, libraries worth of information. There’s a reason it’s the most visited Catholic website in the US. You can find just about anything Catholic you want!
CNA has long been a go-to site for me when it comes to Catholic news, and I’m a big EWTN fangirl.
With CNA, you have Catholic news that’s faithful and reliable and cutting edge. Light on spin, heavy on fact. And interesting news that you don’t find other places. It’s worldwide, but it’s honed in on topic. You didn’t think there was anything Catholic-newsworthy going on? Think again.
EWTN is the name in Catholic media. Any prayer you need (or Catholic topic researched), it’s there: TV stations, devotions, websites, apps, radio programming, libraries worth of information. There’s a reason it’s the most visited Catholic website in the US. You can find just about anything Catholic you want!
Here's what all of those vacuum cleaner attachments are supposed to be used for...
What Vacuum Attachments Do - Vacuum Cleaning Tips - Popular Mechanics: Your vacuum is the most versatile cleaner in your arsenal — if you know how to use the extra tools...
EWTN joins forces with ACI Group, Catholic News Agency in historic partnership
Catholic News Agency, ACI Group merging into EWTN :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In one of the biggest developments in Catholic media history, Catholic News Agency and the Eternal Word Television Network announced Thursday that the two media outlets are merging.
The partnership brings the entire ACI Prensa Group – Catholic News Agency, as well as the Spanish language ACI Prensa and the Portuguese ACI Digital – into the EWTN family.
“EWTN has been a partner with both Catholic News Agency and ACI Prensa for many years in creating and distributing Catholic news content, and I am very pleased and excited that these two highly respected news organizations will become a part of the EWTN family of services,” Michael Warsaw, EWTN's chairman of the board, said June 19.
The partnership brings the entire ACI Prensa Group – Catholic News Agency, as well as the Spanish language ACI Prensa and the Portuguese ACI Digital – into the EWTN family.
“EWTN has been a partner with both Catholic News Agency and ACI Prensa for many years in creating and distributing Catholic news content, and I am very pleased and excited that these two highly respected news organizations will become a part of the EWTN family of services,” Michael Warsaw, EWTN's chairman of the board, said June 19.
Everyone knows that TPS reports are important. But what is a TPS report?
What Is a TPS Report? | Mental Floss: In Mike Judge's Office Space, Lumbergh, the French-cuffed smug dolt of a boss, passive-aggressively berates Peter for failing to file his TPS reports with a cover sheet. Thanks to that scene, "TPS report" has entered the vernacular and is routinely used when someone wants to evoke mundane, rote busywork. It has popped up in ads, music, video games...the list goes on.
But what is a TPS report?
But what is a TPS report?
G.K. Chesterton called this encounter with evil "the most terrible thing that has ever happened to me in my life"
G.K. Chesterton, the Diabolist & “The Most Terrible Thing”: G.K. Chesterton (1874-1936) was a celebrated British journalist, detective novelist, artist and Catholic apologist. He wrote over one hundred books, thousands of newspaper columns, innumerable poems, a several plays. He gleefully debated society’s intellectual luminaries such as George Bernard Shaw, H.G Wells, Clarence Darrow and Bertrand Russell. It is easy to estimate that he engaged in hundreds of thousands of conversations with countless individuals during his sixty-two years of life. And yet Chesterton considered a conversation with a fellow art school student “the most terrible thing that has ever happened to me in my life.”
10 things you need to know today: June 19, 2014
10 things you need to know today: June 19, 2014 - The Week: Iraq asks for air support against insurgents, the Washington Redskins lose the trademark on their name, and more...
Baltimore gets the Berkshires: Charm City's Rozanski tapped for Springfield, Massachusetts...
Whispers in the Loggia: Baltimore Gets the Berkshires: Charm City's Rozanski Tapped for Springfield, Mass.PALMO: Just last month, a sixth-grade religion class at a Baltimore parochial school got a surprise guest teacher: Auxiliary Bishop Mitch Rozanski.
What made the visit unusual, however, was how it came about – meeting the 55 year-old prelate after a Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday, one of the students simply asked if he'd come.
"I thought he would be busy," the student who issued the invitation said afterward.... And so it seems, the kid was onto more than practically anybody else.
What made the visit unusual, however, was how it came about – meeting the 55 year-old prelate after a Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday, one of the students simply asked if he'd come.
"I thought he would be busy," the student who issued the invitation said afterward.... And so it seems, the kid was onto more than practically anybody else.
Why did two towns produce so many Catholic priests?
NYTimes: Why did two towns produce so many priests?MATTINGLY: At least once a year, a major newsroom in the United States produces a big story about the other Catholic crisis in this land, which is the declining number of men entering the priesthood (and women and men entering religious orders, as well). The American priesthood is getting smaller and older.
It is possible to write this story over and over, year after year, covering the same ground and pretending that this is a “news trend.” However, skilled journalists can find new wrinkles within this decades-old story and, thus, do fresh reporting.
It is possible to write this story over and over, year after year, covering the same ground and pretending that this is a “news trend.” However, skilled journalists can find new wrinkles within this decades-old story and, thus, do fresh reporting.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
From Africa, to Asia, to the Middle East, Christians are the world's most persecuted religious group
The War on Christians | The Weekly Standard: For at least three reasons, the contemporary persecution of Christians demands attention: It is occurring on a massive scale, it is underreported, and in many parts of the world it is rapidly growing.
This is what a duck stampede looks like...
This is What a Duck Stampede Looks Like �TwistedSifter: This video shot in Thailand captures the most ducks I have ever seen on film. Watch as they cross a street and bring traffic to a standstill. The video was originally posted to Facebook but all of the comments are in Thai.
Just when you think the stampede is over, a second wave of ducks comes rushing through! Anyone care to guess how many ducks are seen in this video?
Just when you think the stampede is over, a second wave of ducks comes rushing through! Anyone care to guess how many ducks are seen in this video?
What does Jesus mean by hypocrisy? It's more than you might think...
What Does Jesus Mean by Hypocrisy? It’s More than You Might Think � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: In the Gospel from Ash Wednesday’s� Mass, Jesus gives an extended teaching on the problem of hypocrisy. You can read it here: Matthew 6 – On Hypocrisy. In the modern age we have tended to reduce the idea of hypocrisy to duplicity. The modern notion is that a hypocrite is someone who says one thing but does another, a person who is two-faced, inconsistent, or phony. Jesus’ teaching on hypocrisy does not exclude this definition, but it is far richer.
The biblical understanding used by Jesus is rooted in the original meaning of the Greek word ὑποκριταί (hypokritai), which means “stage actors.” At one level it is easy to see how this word has come to mean someone who is phony. For what hypocrites claim to be, they really are not; they are just acting a role. But when no one is looking (i.e., the audience is gone), the hypocrite reverts to his true self, which is someone quite different. Jesus, in his teaching here, develops the understanding far more richly and shows how sad and poignant hypocrisy is, what its origin is, and how it can be overcome.
The biblical understanding used by Jesus is rooted in the original meaning of the Greek word ὑποκριταί (hypokritai), which means “stage actors.” At one level it is easy to see how this word has come to mean someone who is phony. For what hypocrites claim to be, they really are not; they are just acting a role. But when no one is looking (i.e., the audience is gone), the hypocrite reverts to his true self, which is someone quite different. Jesus, in his teaching here, develops the understanding far more richly and shows how sad and poignant hypocrisy is, what its origin is, and how it can be overcome.
"I'm not a child, but that's how a lot of these 'young adult' Masses treat me"...
When Hipsters Go to Church - Aleteia: Millennials are leaving religion in droves, recent surveys find. Churches are roiled and it appears some will do anything to stop the exodus.
The Wall Street Journal reports that the Archdiocese of New York recently hosted millennial Mass-goers for pizzas and drinks at a Midtown dance club. "We're definitely people who live in our culture," the archdiocese's director of young-adult outreach told the Journal, "but I guess as long as it's not too crazy, we're OK with it."
Drinks and dancing after Mass might not be crazy, but it's silly to think it will fill the pews.
The Wall Street Journal reports that the Archdiocese of New York recently hosted millennial Mass-goers for pizzas and drinks at a Midtown dance club. "We're definitely people who live in our culture," the archdiocese's director of young-adult outreach told the Journal, "but I guess as long as it's not too crazy, we're OK with it."
Drinks and dancing after Mass might not be crazy, but it's silly to think it will fill the pews.
Reading this beautiful book is like taking a university course in Catholic culture
Station Churches of RomeMCCLOSKEY: The distinguished team of papal biographer George Weigel, his photographer-son Stephen (who handles the illustrations), and well-known art and architecture historian, professor, author, and tour guide resident in Rome Elizabeth Lev have collaborated to produce The Station Churches of Rome (published by Basic Books, 400 pages with dozens of color illustrations).
At first glance this work might be dismissed as yet another expensive coffee table book, but it is much more. Indeed it could variously be classified under the headings of Church history, architecture, archaeology, liturgy, art, tour guide, or spiritual reading. Let's just say that this is a magnificent book about religion and in particular about a religious practice—pilgrimage—that predates both Rome and Christianity. In particular, the book chronicles an ancient Roman pilgrimage to the Station Churches during the connected liturgical Seasons of Lent and Easter.
At first glance this work might be dismissed as yet another expensive coffee table book, but it is much more. Indeed it could variously be classified under the headings of Church history, architecture, archaeology, liturgy, art, tour guide, or spiritual reading. Let's just say that this is a magnificent book about religion and in particular about a religious practice—pilgrimage—that predates both Rome and Christianity. In particular, the book chronicles an ancient Roman pilgrimage to the Station Churches during the connected liturgical Seasons of Lent and Easter.
Getting to know the Mass is not just for experts. It's the right and calling of all Catholics...
Not Only for Liturgists:It is often observed that the real fruit of an ecumenical council does not appear for many years after the event itself. Indeed, the years immediately after a council can seem to contradict it. After Nicaea's strong condemnation of Arianism, that heresy lingered for centuries. Nicaea seemed such a dead letter that, as Saint Jerome would famously quip decades after the Council, "the whole world groaned and marveled to find itself Arian." Likewise some decades after the Council of Trent, Saint Vincent de Paul arrived in Paris to find the offering of Mass and training of clergy in an appalling state. To glean the real fruit of a council requires patience.
Chicago nuns sue strip club, saying it's too close to convent
Nuns sue strip club, saying it's too close to convent - chicagotribune.com: A group of nuns is suing to shut down a strip club next to their convent in Stone Park that the sisters say keeps them awake at night.
The Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo Scalabrinians say in the suit that Club Allure has ruined their peace with blinking neon lights and loud thumping music. The nuns say they have witnessed drunken fights and found condoms littering the area.
The suit, filed against the club and the village of Stone Park, states that the club violates a state law against operating adult entertainment within 1,000 feet of a school or place of worship. The club is also near houses, and three neighbors have joined the suit.
The Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo Scalabrinians say in the suit that Club Allure has ruined their peace with blinking neon lights and loud thumping music. The nuns say they have witnessed drunken fights and found condoms littering the area.
The suit, filed against the club and the village of Stone Park, states that the club violates a state law against operating adult entertainment within 1,000 feet of a school or place of worship. The club is also near houses, and three neighbors have joined the suit.
The HHS Mandate was just the first step. Here comes a new attack on religious liberty...
HHS Mandate was just the first step. Here comes a new attack on religious liberty. | CatholicVote.orgSHIMEK: Faithful Catholics have been focused on President Obama’s contraceptive mandate for some time now. But, the fight for religious freedom just entered a new round. Another assault on First Amendment protections just reared its ugly head. News of it broke Monday morning.
Get set, folks. This is serious stuff.
Get set, folks. This is serious stuff.
Road & Track: Pope Francis on why he eschews a bulletproof "sardine can" Popemobile
Pope Francis on why he eschews bulletproof Popemobile - Road & Track: Pope Francis has done things differently since they day he was elected. He wears simple vestments in lieu of the ornate robes of his predecessors, he chooses to live in a guest house rather than the official papal residence, and through words and actions, he has set a tone that has inspired many, Catholic and otherwise.
He also chooses not to ride in a bulletproof popemobile.
Whether greeting the throngs gathered at the Vatican, or on official visits to places like The Holy Land and Brazil, for example, Francis travels in an open Popemobile. Aside from a clear rain canopy, the sides are wide open—a departure from the enclosed Popemobiles commonly (but not always) used in the wake of the 1981 assassination attempt against John Paul II, which took place in the Vatican square as he greeted the crowd from his open-air vehicle:
He also chooses not to ride in a bulletproof popemobile.
Whether greeting the throngs gathered at the Vatican, or on official visits to places like The Holy Land and Brazil, for example, Francis travels in an open Popemobile. Aside from a clear rain canopy, the sides are wide open—a departure from the enclosed Popemobiles commonly (but not always) used in the wake of the 1981 assassination attempt against John Paul II, which took place in the Vatican square as he greeted the crowd from his open-air vehicle:
In two Michigan villages, a higher calling is often heard
In Two Michigan Villages, a Higher Calling Is Often Heard - NYTimes.com: Aside for the mole grazing his right eyebrow, it is difficult to distinguish Gary Koenigsknecht from his identical twin, Todd, four minutes the elder.
Outrage addiction can hurt your spiritual life and interfere with the Church's mission
Te Deum laudamus!: Outrage Addiction: Its harm on the spiritual life and on the mission of the ChurchKORZENIEWSKI: Our main goal in this life should be to get to Heaven and take as many souls with us as possible. �We not only have to learn our faith and teach it to others (Mt 25:14-30); we have to know how to share the Gospel with others -- with words, and without (1 Cor: 13). �Each of us puts a face on our Catholic faith, for good or for bad, whether it is in person, or online (anonymous or not). We need to convey the hope we have within; not a sense of anger, bitterness, hopelessness and despair. �We must, always and everywhere, strive, by the grace of God, to be blameless amidst adversity and persecution (1 Peter 3:8-17). �This is how we imitate Christ. �Being in a chronic state of outrage over this or that is not an imitation of Christ; it is a manifestation that we have yielded to a rather stealthy form of concupiscence. At it's root, is a lack of faith, hope and charity.
20 things you might not know about the Tour de France
Tour de Yorkshire: 20 facts about the history of the iconic Tour de France bike race - Huddersfield Examiner: The Tour de Yorkshire is just weeks away - and Huddersfield will become part of Tour de France history.
The iconic bike race was first held in 1903, 111 years ago, and millions line the route each year to catch a glimpse of their cycling heroes in action.
The iconic bike race was first held in 1903, 111 years ago, and millions line the route each year to catch a glimpse of their cycling heroes in action.
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