Blue Aurorae in Mars’ Sky Visible to the Naked Eye | NASA: For the first time, an international team of scientists from NASA, the Institute of Planetology and Astrophysics of Grenoble (IPAG), the European Space Agency and Aalto University in Finland, have predicted that colorful, glowing aurorae can be seen by the naked eye on a terrestrial planet other than Earth — Mars.
Visible Martian aurorae seemed possible after the SPICAM imaging instrument on-board the ESA satellite Mars Express spotted aurorae from space in 2005. Those observations were confirmed in March 2015 by the NASA-led MAVEN mission, which completed 1,000 orbits around the red planet on April 6, 2015.
Sunday, May 31, 2015
Abortion is the death penalty for the unborn
Local View: Defending human dignity : OpinionCONLEY: Nebraska’s Catholic bishops were proud to support LB268, which definitively repealed our state’s death penalty. For months, we worked with senators from across the state to bring an end to the practice of capital punishment. The passage of LB268 strengthens Nebraska’s culture of life.
My opposition to Nebraska’s death penalty is rooted in my respect for the fundamental dignity of every human life.
Some Nebraskans argued last week that capital criminals surrender their dignity by committing grave crimes. The innocent deserve our protection, they claimed, but the guilty have no right to life. But the truth is that neither rights nor dignity are determined by personal choices or behavior. Our dignity comes from being created by God -- in the very image of divinity. My Catholic faith tells me that life is a gift from God, which should be valued and protected in every community.
My opposition to Nebraska’s death penalty is rooted in my respect for the fundamental dignity of every human life.
Some Nebraskans argued last week that capital criminals surrender their dignity by committing grave crimes. The innocent deserve our protection, they claimed, but the guilty have no right to life. But the truth is that neither rights nor dignity are determined by personal choices or behavior. Our dignity comes from being created by God -- in the very image of divinity. My Catholic faith tells me that life is a gift from God, which should be valued and protected in every community.
America's atheistic materialism is a creed of despair...
From American Atheistic Materialism … - The Imaginative ConservativeLONGENECKER: Pope St. John Paul II said there were two atheistic materialistic societies: Communist Russia and the Unrestrained Capitalism of America. The philosopher pope asserted this not because he hated America or was against capitalism per se, but because he was against the kind of unrestrained capitalism which is a form of atheistic materialism.
“Materialism” is a popular nickname for greedy consumerism. We say a woman is “materialistic” if she does nothing but go to the mall and shop until she drops. We call a man “materialistic” if all he cares about is his financial success, his career and the prosperity, power and pleasure his success will buy him. These forms of materialism are symptoms not the disease. The disease is far deeper and more incurable for it is a disease of not only the mind but also the heart.
“Materialism” is a popular nickname for greedy consumerism. We say a woman is “materialistic” if she does nothing but go to the mall and shop until she drops. We call a man “materialistic” if all he cares about is his financial success, his career and the prosperity, power and pleasure his success will buy him. These forms of materialism are symptoms not the disease. The disease is far deeper and more incurable for it is a disease of not only the mind but also the heart.
This is perhaps the best English-language explanation of the Most Holy Trinity that you'll ever read...
The Trinity: Three Persons in One Nature | Frank Sheed | From "Theology and Sanity" | Ignatius InsightSHEED: The notion is unfortunately widespread that the mystery of the Blessed Trinity is a mystery of mathematics, that is to say, of how one can equal three. The plain Christian accepts the doctrine of the Trinity; the "advanced" Christian rejects it; but too often what is being accepted by the one and rejected by the other is that one equals three. The believer argues that God has said it, therefore it must be true; the rejecter argues it cannot be true, therefore God has not said it. A learned non-Catholic divine, being asked if he believed in the Trinity, answered, "I must confess that the arithmetical aspect of the Deity does not greatly interest me"; and if the learned can think that there is some question of arithmetic involved, the ordinary person can hardly be expected to know any better.
Something interesting happened when hundreds gathered in Arizona to protest Muslims...
Hundreds gathered in Arizona to protest Muslims—and then this happened: That rally—in which armed protestors stood outside a mosque, wore profanity-adorned t-shirt about Islam, and screamed—resulted in this epiphany for a couple of the protestors
Crap, castration and two creations: The colorful New Testament wording that you've probably missed...
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sat, May 30, 2015 at 10:49 AM
Subject: STEVE RAY: Crap, Castration & Two Creations – Colorful New Testament Wording
To: kcknight@gmail.com
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sat, May 30, 2015 at 10:49 AM
Subject: STEVE RAY: Crap, Castration & Two Creations – Colorful New Testament Wording
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=Steve RayRAY:
We miss a lot when reading the English Bible. We're at a great disadvantage. The early Christians read the writings of the apostles in the original language – they understood the words and expressions must better than we do. The original language of the Bible is full of rich imagery, stark reality, and colorful terminology.
For example, Paul writes that he considers all things as refuse that he might gain Christ (Phil 4:8). We lose the impact of his graphic language. Paul wrote in Greek and in Greek the word refuse means human waste or crap. In Paul's day it might have been the equivalent of the "sh–" word forbidden in proper communication. Paul used crude language, and it was very graphic for the original readers. Our English translations are very "proper".
(Picture: Steve sitting on old stone Roman toilets in Philippi, filming in "Paul, Contending for the Faith")
As a Pharisee, Paul tried to earn his righteousness by his self-righteous efforts and pride. But now that he has learned of faith in Christ and salvation by grace along, he considers his old efforts and self-righteousness to be nothing but crap. English Bibles santize this wording for us :-)
Let's look at another crude example. In Galatians 5:12 Paul reacts to the Jewish converts who tried to make the Gentiles get circumcised. They said the pagans must be circumcised and obey all the 613 laws of Moses to be saved (Acts 15:1). The heretics made Paul so mad that he says he wished the false teachers would not just cut off the foreskin of the penis but slip and cut the whole thing off. Ouch!
Everywhere else this Greek word is used in the New Testament, it is translated "cut it off" but in this passage most prim and proper English translations render the word as "mutilate themselves" though a few say "castrate themselves" or "go all the way and emasculate themselves." Paul didn't mince his words, nor hide his anger and frustration.
(Picture: Ancient flint knife, the kind used for circumcisions in biblical times)
One of my favorite gold nuggets that I discovered in the New Testament is a Greek word used only twice in the whole New Testament. This word relates to God's two creations. By reading the English Bible you would never know these two different passages use the same Greek word. But you would never know it from reading the English. When you dig deep you find gold!
What are these two creations of God? The first is obviously the physical world created "in the beginning." The second creation is the Church, into which we are 'born again" through baptism, a new creation. Both creations were "born" out of water with the Spirit of God hovering over the water (Gen 1:2; Mk 1:9-110, John 3:1-5).
Ready? Well here are the two verses; I have italicized the English words that have the Greek word in common:
First, the physical creation: "Ever since the creation of the world his invisible nature, namely, his eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made" (Romans 1:20).
Second, the spiritual creation: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10).
Was I right? Would you have known that the underlying Greek word in both verses is poiema? It is the Greek word from which we get our English word poem. In Romans 1:20, five English words are used to translate one Greek word: poiema which refers to the physical created universe. The word workmanship is what you are, what the Church is. The poem of the Church includes you.
So, God has "written" two poems: the physical world and the Church. God is a poet, He is an artist, and his two great works of art reveal much about Him as an artist. You can learn a lot from looking at the paintings of an artist or by reading the pages of a poet. Just as any poet can be understood by reading his work, so God can be understood to some degree by reading his poetry.
Go out at night and look at the sky – ponder the masterpiece of God's creation. Look at the symmetry and beauty of a flower, the power and creatures of the oceans, the majesty of mountains and thunderstorms. Then look at the Church around the world as she redeems sinners. Think of the billions of people that have accepted her embrace and been born into a heavenly family, a culture of love and blessings. Two marvelous, breath-taking creations.
Any you? You are part of God's two creations, you are written into his poetry and painted on his canvas. He treasures you. You are not a random mass of molecules that happened to appear on lonely planet earth spinning meaninglessly around the sun. No, you are part of God's glorious poetry that angels admire and God cherishes. Be proud, be thankful! Live worthy of your place in God's heart.
So, the New Testament is rich in its vocabulary. It is richer than the English language reveals. Like Paul says, anyone that tries to please God by their meager human efforts has nothing but crap to show for it, unworthy of the kingdom of God. Anyone who says we must be circumcised to be a Christian opposes God's plan of free grace. Paul wanted them to castrate themselves.
Actually the New Testament is rich in imagery and figures of speech. You are blessed to be freely made part of God's two creations. You are beautiful. The Word of God says so!
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This high school quarterback made an amazing promise to a girl with Down syndrome, and he kept it...
High School Quarterback Made an Amazing Promise to Girl With Down Syndrome, And He Kept It | LifeNews.com: Ann Marie Lapkowicz is a friend of mine. Her daughter is now an international celebrity.
The story begins when Ann Marie’s daughter Mary was in 4th grade. As PennLive.com reports, her friend Ben Moser worked hard to make sure that Mary was included in the games the other fourth graders would play.
His act of kindness was significant because Mary has Down syndrome. But to Ben, Mary was not a statistic—she was a friend.
Ben informed his mother that, when he was old enough, he would invite Mary to the high school prom.
The story begins when Ann Marie’s daughter Mary was in 4th grade. As PennLive.com reports, her friend Ben Moser worked hard to make sure that Mary was included in the games the other fourth graders would play.
His act of kindness was significant because Mary has Down syndrome. But to Ben, Mary was not a statistic—she was a friend.
Ben informed his mother that, when he was old enough, he would invite Mary to the high school prom.
From donation bin to Sotheby's: How a rare 19th-century Bible almost got away...
From Donation Bin to Sotheby’s: How a Rare 19th-Century Bible Almost Got Away | Collectors Weekly: On his first day as a volunteer for the Friends of Knight Memorial Library, in March of 2014, John Marks (no relation) was asked to help finalize prices for 200 books and sets that had been selected and pre-priced for one of the library’s twice-annual, vintage-book sales. One of these was a five-volume, 19th-century Torah, grandly titled “The Law of God” and edited and translated by Isaac Leeser. The publication date was listed as 5605 in the Jewish calendar, which in the Gregorian calendar is anywhere from the fall of 1844 through the summer of 1845.
This thought experiment unwittingly illuminates truths about the eternity that awaits many (so go to Confession already!)
Immortal But Damned to Hell on Earth - The Atlantic: Imagine a supercomputer so advanced that it could hold the contents of a human brain. The Google engineer Ray Kurzweil famously believes that this will be possible by 2045. Organized technologists are seeking to transfer human personalities to non-biological carriers, “extending life, including to the point of immortality.” My gut says that they’ll never get there. But say I’m wrong. Were it possible, would you upload the contents of your brain to a computer before death, extending your conscious moments on this earth indefinitely? Or would you die as your ancestors did, passing into nothingness or an unknown beyond human comprehension?
15 surprising things you can make in a rice cooker
15 Surprising Things You Can Make in a Rice Cooker: Despite its name, the rice cooker is not a single-minded kitchen unitasker. Sure, it is the easiest way to make perfect rice, but it’s also a convenient way to cook a wide variety of foods. Here are a few examples that might just convince you to invest in a rice cooker or use yours more often.
The simple logical puzzle that shows how illogical you probably are
The Simple Logical Puzzle That Shows How Illogical People Are - Facts So Romantic - Nautilus: In the 1960s, the English psychologist Peter Wason devised an experiment that would revolutionize his field. This clever puzzle, known as the “Wason selection task,” is often claimed to be “the single most investigated experimental paradigm in the psychology of reasoning,” in the words of one textbook author.
New York Magazine writer: "I was a proud non-breeder. Then I changed my mind..."
I Was a Proud Non-Breeder. I Changed My Mind. -- The Cut: Twelve years ago, I penned an essay for a Salon series called “To Breed or Not to Breed,” about the decision to have children or not. It began this way: “When I tell people that I’m 27, happily married and that I don’t think I ever want children, they respond one of two ways. Most of the time they smile patronizingly and say, ‘You’ll change your mind.’ Sometimes they do me the favor of taking me seriously, in which case they warn, ‘You’ll regret it.’” The series inspired an anthology titled Maybe Baby. It was divided into three parts: “No Thanks, Not for Me,” “On the Fence,” and “Taking the Leap.” My essay was the first in the “No” section.
Why do birds fly into windows?
Why Do Birds Fly Into Windows? | Mental Floss: The bird: majestic. Soaring. A creature of song. Muse of Alfred Hitchcock. And occasionally, apt to plunk its tiny head into your double-paned window.
More than 100 million birds are estimated to die each year as a result of flying directly into glass; even a bird that scoots away may suffer internal injuries. Despite being widely thought of as intelligent, most avian species are still vulnerable to this ignoble demise. Are they fooled by reflections of trees? Are they attacking their own reflection?
More than 100 million birds are estimated to die each year as a result of flying directly into glass; even a bird that scoots away may suffer internal injuries. Despite being widely thought of as intelligent, most avian species are still vulnerable to this ignoble demise. Are they fooled by reflections of trees? Are they attacking their own reflection?
Philadelphia's Archbishop Chaput looks forward to World Meeting of Families and beyond
Chaput looks forward to World Meeting and beyond: When Pope Francis' jet climbs above Philadelphia on the last Sunday of September and banks east for Rome, Archbishop Charles J. Chaput might allow himself a sigh of relief.
The World Meeting of Families - three hectic years in the planning - will be over at last.
The six-day international gathering, capped by Francis' visit, "keeps me awake at night," Chaput said in a recent interview. The huge event, expected to draw as many as two million people, is the latest in a litany of challenges to confront him since his arrival in September 2011.
The World Meeting of Families - three hectic years in the planning - will be over at last.
The six-day international gathering, capped by Francis' visit, "keeps me awake at night," Chaput said in a recent interview. The huge event, expected to draw as many as two million people, is the latest in a litany of challenges to confront him since his arrival in September 2011.
Pope's Sunday Angelus: In the Blessed Trinity lies the ultimate goal of your time on earth
VATICAN Pope: In the Trinity lies the ultimate goal of our earthly pilgrimage - Asia News: The mystery of the Trinity "renews our mission to live in communion with God and with one another. It is the ultimate goal of our earthly pilgrimage and gives us the strength to evangelize not only in words, but with the power of God who dwells in us”, said Pope Francis before the Angelus prayer in front of a St. Peter's Square packed with faithful.
Today, the Pope began, "we celebrate the feast of the Holy Trinity, which reminds us of the mystery of the one God in three Persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Trinity is a communion of Divine Persons which are One with the other, for each other, in each other: this communion is the life of God, the mystery of love of the Living God. Who revealed this mystery? Jesus. He spoke of God as Father and he spoke of the Spirit, and spoke of Himself as the Son of God. "
Today, the Pope began, "we celebrate the feast of the Holy Trinity, which reminds us of the mystery of the one God in three Persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Trinity is a communion of Divine Persons which are One with the other, for each other, in each other: this communion is the life of God, the mystery of love of the Living God. Who revealed this mystery? Jesus. He spoke of God as Father and he spoke of the Spirit, and spoke of Himself as the Son of God. "
How my high school lunch lady helped me get into Princeton
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Thu, May 28, 2015 at 3:09 PM
Subject: TIME: How My High School Lunch Lady Helped Me Get Into Princeton
To: kcknight@gmail.com
#kk1unclassified
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Thu, May 28, 2015 at 3:09 PM
Subject: TIME: How My High School Lunch Lady Helped Me Get Into Princeton
To: kcknight@gmail.com
This is the story I tell whenever someone asks me how I got into Princeton, mostly because that question is always awkward and begets SAT score questions, which isn't a very exciting topic. Anyway, back to 2003.
We had an array of hall monitors in my high school, most of whom were older women who had retired or wanted a relaxing not-quite full-time job. Some were moms of classmates, others locals. They were all generally friendly, some a little cranky and more on the disciplinarian side.
One though, Rose, was the sweetest woman. She would always chat us up at lunch, make sure we were staying out of trouble, ask how classes and sports were going. Just a really friendly lady who knew we were good kids and cared about our success. We didn't know much about her other than that she was the "cool" one and took a liking to us. We appreciated that.
Come spring semester senior year, everyone is waiting on college admissions and Rose knew that I had applied early to Princeton. Around the week or so that you'd expect to hear back, she would ask me every single day. "Lev, did you hear from Princeton? Did you get in?" Without fail, every single day. She took an interest, but this was a bit much for me. "Rose, I'll tell you when I know."
One afternoon that week I came home early because I had a few free periods toward the end of the day and didn't have sports practice or anything after school. I peeked in the mailbox and found a big fat letter from Princeton. Good sign. Open it up and the first word is "YES!"
Naturally, I was a pretty excited 17-year-old and drove back to school to tell everybody. It was still the middle of a class period so nobody was around. Except, of course, Rose, hanging out by the main hallway door.
"ROSE! I GOT IN!"
"I know! I'm so excited for you!"
"Huh? What do you mean, you know?"
"It's been killing me these last few days not telling you, but I've known for the last week. That's why I've been asking you every day."
Ummm…what?! You're the lunch lady, the hall monitor. What could you possibly know about my college admissions before I do? Isn't that kind of sensitive information?
Turns out, before Rose retired she was the executive assistant to an important and wealthy business person who also happened to be a Princeton alumnus and have some power in the University.
When she found out I applied and it was around admissions time, she made a phone call to her good friend and former boss. He made his own phone calls and reported back that I got in, apparently on my own. I'll never know if I got in on my own or not, but Rose and everyone else are convinced I did. I get the feeling that if I hadn't, this guy would have changed that for Rose.
Either way, when people ask how I got into Princeton I tell them my lunch lady got me in. Or at least she would have had the need arisen.
Be nice to your lunch ladies, people. They'll get you into college.
Lev Berlin graduated Princeton in 2007 and runs the food software business ReciPal.
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Is the Trinity too much of a mystery for you to understand?
Is the Trinity Too Much of a Mystery to Understand? | Knowing Is DoingTORRE: A common phrase I hear all too often about the doctrine of the Trinity is that “it’s a mystery” and that’s all you really need to know. Followed by; “Just make the Sign of the Cross and be on your way.” This unfortunate catechetical reality immediately negates the opportunity to draw someone into God’s Trinitarian narrative. Simply applying the label “mystery” doesn’t give our Lord due justice for revealing Himself in systematic and loving way.
4 misconceptions about the black widow spider
Black Widows' Bad Rap: 4 Misconceptions About the Spider - Yahoo News: One woman's snack break turned sour this week when she reached into a bag of grapes and felt the bite of a venomous black widow spider. The 21-year-old Vermonter survived the ordeal, but some people who heard her story have since sworn off the fruit. But before you give up grapes forever, experts say there are a few things you should know about the (woefully misunderstood) black widow spider.
The personal stories of Christianity’s new martyrs
The personal stories of Christianity’s new martyrs | CruxALLEN: Anti-Christian persecution is unquestionably a premier human rights challenge in the early 21st century. It’s happening not just in the Middle East but around the world, including nations where Christians are a strong majority.
Compassionate concern over that stark reality should not short-circuit legitimate debate over the positions some Christians take on social and political issues. And there is no suggestion here that Christians have a monopoly on pain, because plenty of other groups are suffering, too.
Compassionate concern over that stark reality should not short-circuit legitimate debate over the positions some Christians take on social and political issues. And there is no suggestion here that Christians have a monopoly on pain, because plenty of other groups are suffering, too.
4,000-year-old ancient Babylonian tablet is oldest customer service complaint ever discovered
4,000-Year-Old Ancient Babylonian Tablet Is Oldest Customer Service Complaint Ever Discovered: A clay tablet from ancient Babylon reveals that no matter where (or when) you go, good customer service can be hard find. So it was revealed by the irate copper merchant, Nanni, in 1750 B.C. The merchant’s aggravation is evident, spelled out in cuneiform on a clay tablet now displayed in The British Museum.
In what is said to be the oldest customer service complaint discovered, Babylonian copper merchant Nanni details at length his anger at a sour deal, and his dissatisfaction with the quality assurance and service of Ea-nasir.
In what is said to be the oldest customer service complaint discovered, Babylonian copper merchant Nanni details at length his anger at a sour deal, and his dissatisfaction with the quality assurance and service of Ea-nasir.
San Francisco Catholics back Archbishop Cordileone as his critics regroup
San Francisco Catholics Back Archbishop as His Critics Regroup | Daily News | NCRegister.comDESMOND: Since February, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone’s attempt to strengthen Catholic identity at four high schools under his jurisdiction has placed him under fire from union leaders, teachers, parents, Catholic donors and state legislators who have attacked the archbishop’s initiatives as a violation of San Francisco’s “inclusive” culture.�
The archdiocese and teachers’ unions have been in negotiations for months over “morality clauses” that the archbishop added to teacher contracts and new language on Catholic sexual ethics in faculty handbooks, with no firm resolution thus far.
The archdiocese and teachers’ unions have been in negotiations for months over “morality clauses” that the archbishop added to teacher contracts and new language on Catholic sexual ethics in faculty handbooks, with no firm resolution thus far.
Pope's environmental encyclical to be titled 'Laudato Sii'; release set for mid-June
Pope's environmental encyclical to be titled 'Laudato Sii' (Praised Be You) :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): Taken from St. Francis of Assisi’s “Canticle of the Sun” prayer praising God for creation, the likely name of the Pope’s upcoming encyclical was informally announced just weeks before its anticipated publication.
Fr. Giuseppe Costa, director of the Vatican Publishing House, reportedly announced the encyclical’s title during the delivery of the Cardinal Michele Giordano prize Saturday afternoon, May 30, in Naples.
Fr. Giuseppe Costa, director of the Vatican Publishing House, reportedly announced the encyclical’s title during the delivery of the Cardinal Michele Giordano prize Saturday afternoon, May 30, in Naples.
Why is anti-Catholic Bob Jones University the largest repository of Catholic art outside the Vatican?
The Amazing Catholic Art at Anti-Catholic Bob Jones UniversitySCHIFFER: Bob Jones University, a fundamentalist Protestant university in Greenville, South Carolina, is downright unfriendly toward Catholics.
Can I prove that? Well, shortly after the death of Pope Paul VI in 1978, Bob Jones, Jr., son of the founder and chancellor of the university, published an article in the school’s magazine, Faith for the Family, which begins
Can I prove that? Well, shortly after the death of Pope Paul VI in 1978, Bob Jones, Jr., son of the founder and chancellor of the university, published an article in the school’s magazine, Faith for the Family, which begins
Catholic social teaching and dignity of the human person
Catholic Social Teaching and the Dignity of the Human Person | Daily News | NCRegister.comSHEA: Catholic social doctrine mystifies many people. Is it political or theological, spiritual or practical, left or right, modern or ancient?
Rather like the moment Jesus asked his apostles, “Who do people say that I am?” and got a wide diversity of opinions and guesses back, so today the Church’s social teaching is regarded with tremendous confusion.
It’s good, then, to take a look at how the Church herself understands her social doctrine and to see how she traces the roots of this doctrine back to the teaching of the Twelve Apostles.
Rather like the moment Jesus asked his apostles, “Who do people say that I am?” and got a wide diversity of opinions and guesses back, so today the Church’s social teaching is regarded with tremendous confusion.
It’s good, then, to take a look at how the Church herself understands her social doctrine and to see how she traces the roots of this doctrine back to the teaching of the Twelve Apostles.
Why I believe greed is the most pervasive sin of our culture today
The Theology of Laundry: Why I Believe Greed is the Most Pervasive Sin of Our Culture TodayNICHOLS: As a Silicon Valley resident I have a front row seat to some of the greatest financial disparities in the country. CEOs commute to work in their luxury cars on the same freeways as their vanpooling, underpaid workers. Here, some live as kings while the majority are exploited. Greed's theater. It's a world surely envisioned by the enemy and sculpted by human greed.
But even if I didn’t live here, per se, judging by how it’s going in other places of the country, I would argue that in many aspects of our culture, greed is the most pervasive sin of our time.
But even if I didn’t live here, per se, judging by how it’s going in other places of the country, I would argue that in many aspects of our culture, greed is the most pervasive sin of our time.
Lamenting the entire 20th century
Vibrant Catholicism, 1: Lamenting the entire 20th century - Catholic CultureJEFFMIRUS: I have this vision of offering a comprehensive plan to ensure a vibrant, effective Catholicism going forward—because we certainly haven’t had anything like it for a long time. But this is a seductive vision. Even the best and most comprehensive plans for renewal will run into enormous obstacles. The Second Vatican Council, an ecumenical council devoted to Catholic reform, which we know by faith to have been a showcase for the activity of the Holy Spirit, is a cautionary case in point. Do I think I can do better?
Five years since launch of Common Core, concerns remain for Catholic schools
Five Years Since Launch of Common Core, Concerns Remain for Catholic Schools: Five years after the official release of the Common Core State Standards on June 2, 2010, The Cardinal Newman Society has released two new reports on the experimental reform and remains convinced that the English language arts (ELA) and mathematics standards by themselves are insufficient and even potentially harmful for Catholic schools, which must keep Christ and the Catholic faith as the true core of education.
Even more disconcerting are the many curricula and textbooks that have been labeled “Common Core” but depart from the successful practices and principles of Catholic education, as well as standardized tests adjusted to Common Core standards that have been widely criticized.
Even more disconcerting are the many curricula and textbooks that have been labeled “Common Core” but depart from the successful practices and principles of Catholic education, as well as standardized tests adjusted to Common Core standards that have been widely criticized.
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Fwd: CRUX: Putting faces, names, and stories on Christianity’s new martyrs
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From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2015
Subject: CRUX: Putting faces, names, and stories on Christianity's new martyrs
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=John L. Allen Jr.ALLEN: Two encounters in Colombia this week drove home the point that behind the statistics of Christian slaughter are real people with horrifying experiences. PLUS: An interview with Colombia's top bishop. #kk3always
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One and One and One is One: A homily for Trinity Sunday
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From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2015
Subject: ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON: 1 and 1 and 1 is One – A Homily for Trinity Sunday
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=Msgr. Charles PopePOPE: There is an old Spiritual that says, My God is so high, you can't over him, he's so low, you can't under him, he's so wide you can't round him, you must come in, by and through the Lamb. Not a bad way of saying that God is other, He is beyond what human words […] #kk3always
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Pope: abortion, euthanasia, abandonment of migrants are 'attacks against humanity'
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From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sat, May 30, 2015 at 10:14 AM
Subject: CNA: Pope: abortion, euthanasia, abandonment of migrants are 'attacks against humanity'
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=Unknown:
A civilization whose technological advancements do not seek to protect the most vulnerable, from conception until natural death, fails to live up to its responsibility, Pope Francis said.
In remarks made during an audience at the Vatican with members of the Italian Associazione Scienza & Vita (Science and Life Association), the pontiff decried victims of abortion and euthanasia, migrants left to die on the sea, and other travesties.
Progress in civilization is not measured by its advancements in technology, but "its capacity to protect life, especially during the most fragile stages," he said.
"The scourge of abortion is an attack against life. Leaving our brothers on boats to die in the Sicilian channel is an attack against life. Death in the workplace, because the minimum safety conditions are not followed, is an attack against life. Death from malnutrition is an attack against life. Terrorism, war, violence; but also euthanasia are attacks against life."
The Pope's remarks come one day after nearly 750 migrants were rescued off the coast of Sicily, according to the Italian coast guard. Around 1,800 people have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean over the last five months, with some 60,000 having attempted the journey, the United Nations estimates.
Pope Francis also encouraged those present at the audience to engage with the scientific community.
"Do not be afraid of embarking on a fruitful dialogue with the world of science, even with those who, while not believers, remain open to the mystery of human life," he said.
Life, Pope Francis said, "originates and accompanies all scientific progress; it is the miracle of life which always undermines some sort of scientific presumption, giving primacy to wonder and beauty."
He told them not to lose sight of the "sacredness of every human person, in order that science may truly be at the service of man," and not the other way around.
Science and Life Association, which is comprised of professionals in fields such as science, culture, and politics, met with the Pope in the Vatican on Saturday to mark the 10th anniversary of their founding.
Science has the ability to analyze specific details, Pope Francis said, which insures that "a just society recognizes the right to life from conception to natural death as paramount."
"The protection and promotion of life represents a fundamental task, especially in a society marked by the negative logic of waste."
The pontiff observed that protecting the person involves encountering and sustaining those in need of protection, a responsibility which extends "from the center toward the peripheries."
"At the center, there is Christ," the Pope said, and it is from "this centrality that you are directed toward the various conditions of human life."
"The love of Christ pushes us to make ourselves servants of the little and the elderly, of every man and every woman, for whom the primordial right to live should be recognized and protected."
"Therefore Christ, who is the light of man and the world, illuminates the way in order that science may always be knowledge in service of life."
This recognition of life's value, however, obligates us to consider how we make use of it, Pope Francis said.
"Life is above all a gift," he said, and this creates hope and a future, so long as it is "enlivened" by familial and social relationships, which in turn "open new perspectives."
"Loving life means to take care of the other, to love him, to cultivate and respect his transcendent dignity."
#kk2churchnews
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sat, May 30, 2015 at 10:14 AM
Subject: CNA: Pope: abortion, euthanasia, abandonment of migrants are 'attacks against humanity'
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=Unknown:
A civilization whose technological advancements do not seek to protect the most vulnerable, from conception until natural death, fails to live up to its responsibility, Pope Francis said.
In remarks made during an audience at the Vatican with members of the Italian Associazione Scienza & Vita (Science and Life Association), the pontiff decried victims of abortion and euthanasia, migrants left to die on the sea, and other travesties.
Progress in civilization is not measured by its advancements in technology, but "its capacity to protect life, especially during the most fragile stages," he said.
"The scourge of abortion is an attack against life. Leaving our brothers on boats to die in the Sicilian channel is an attack against life. Death in the workplace, because the minimum safety conditions are not followed, is an attack against life. Death from malnutrition is an attack against life. Terrorism, war, violence; but also euthanasia are attacks against life."
The Pope's remarks come one day after nearly 750 migrants were rescued off the coast of Sicily, according to the Italian coast guard. Around 1,800 people have died attempting to cross the Mediterranean over the last five months, with some 60,000 having attempted the journey, the United Nations estimates.
Pope Francis also encouraged those present at the audience to engage with the scientific community.
"Do not be afraid of embarking on a fruitful dialogue with the world of science, even with those who, while not believers, remain open to the mystery of human life," he said.
Life, Pope Francis said, "originates and accompanies all scientific progress; it is the miracle of life which always undermines some sort of scientific presumption, giving primacy to wonder and beauty."
He told them not to lose sight of the "sacredness of every human person, in order that science may truly be at the service of man," and not the other way around.
Science and Life Association, which is comprised of professionals in fields such as science, culture, and politics, met with the Pope in the Vatican on Saturday to mark the 10th anniversary of their founding.
Science has the ability to analyze specific details, Pope Francis said, which insures that "a just society recognizes the right to life from conception to natural death as paramount."
"The protection and promotion of life represents a fundamental task, especially in a society marked by the negative logic of waste."
The pontiff observed that protecting the person involves encountering and sustaining those in need of protection, a responsibility which extends "from the center toward the peripheries."
"At the center, there is Christ," the Pope said, and it is from "this centrality that you are directed toward the various conditions of human life."
"The love of Christ pushes us to make ourselves servants of the little and the elderly, of every man and every woman, for whom the primordial right to live should be recognized and protected."
"Therefore Christ, who is the light of man and the world, illuminates the way in order that science may always be knowledge in service of life."
This recognition of life's value, however, obligates us to consider how we make use of it, Pope Francis said.
"Life is above all a gift," he said, and this creates hope and a future, so long as it is "enlivened" by familial and social relationships, which in turn "open new perspectives."
"Loving life means to take care of the other, to love him, to cultivate and respect his transcendent dignity."
| Manage or unsubscribe from this feed at Blogtrottr. |
Friday, May 29, 2015
Pope Francis praises 'heroism' of parents who refused to abort their children
Pope Praises 'Heroism' of Parents Who Decided Not to Abort - ABC News: Pope Francis has praised the "heroism" of parents of gravely ill children who chose not to abort.
Francis met for nearly an hour with a group of severely ill children and their parents Friday in the Vatican hotel chapel. The families are participating in a pilgrimage to the shrines at Lourdes and Loreto.
The Vatican said Francis spent time with each child, who ranged in age from two to 14. The father of one child, Andrea Maria, told Francis how doctors had advised his wife to have an abortion because of a difficult pregnancy and the child's ailments but that they refused.
Francis met for nearly an hour with a group of severely ill children and their parents Friday in the Vatican hotel chapel. The families are participating in a pilgrimage to the shrines at Lourdes and Loreto.
The Vatican said Francis spent time with each child, who ranged in age from two to 14. The father of one child, Andrea Maria, told Francis how doctors had advised his wife to have an abortion because of a difficult pregnancy and the child's ailments but that they refused.
'Mad Max' is an overwhelming, deeply weird, masterful action movie
SDG Reviews ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ | Daily News | NCRegister.comGREYDANUS: In the first act of Mad Max: Fury Road, Tom Hardy’s Max spends more time than you might expect strapped helplessly to the front of a turbo-charged Chevy coupe, maniacally driven by a fanatic through a hellish landscape, an unwilling witness to the chaos ensuing around him.
Sitting in the theater, I felt about the same way, I think.
Then, as the movie continued, an improbable thing happened. Like Max, I slowly became a willing participant in the madness.
Sitting in the theater, I felt about the same way, I think.
Then, as the movie continued, an improbable thing happened. Like Max, I slowly became a willing participant in the madness.
Why are they drawing Muhammed? It's just poking the bear to show that bears act like bears...
So Why Are They Drawing Muhammad? |Blogs | NCRegister.comMATTARCHBOLD: An event is scheduled to take place outside of a mosque in Phoenix where a drawing of Muhammad will be exhibited. The event coordinators are encouraging those attending to come armed...just in case.
But I've got to wonder, what are they trying to prove? Is it that many Muslims are violently radical and will kill without pity? Well, considering when they held the event to draw Muhammad, two armed terrorists attempted to kill those involved but were taken out, I'm thinking we got the idea.
The Islamic Community Center of Phoenix, where the event will take place, is where the two previously alive terrorists previously worshiped.
But I've got to wonder, what are they trying to prove? Is it that many Muslims are violently radical and will kill without pity? Well, considering when they held the event to draw Muhammad, two armed terrorists attempted to kill those involved but were taken out, I'm thinking we got the idea.
The Islamic Community Center of Phoenix, where the event will take place, is where the two previously alive terrorists previously worshiped.
What Could President Obama possibly have to offer the Catholic Health Association?
What Could President Obama Possibly Have to Offer the Catholic Health Association?!SCHIFFER: President Obama will give the CHA’s closing address on June 9, with an anticipated 1,000 people in attendance.
I don’t believe for one minute that my little voice will make even a modicum of difference in the CHA’s policy direction. I do believe, though, that it is my responsibility to share my concerns, and to encourage others to express their concerns as well–inviting the Catholic Health Association to abide by Church teaching, and to return to the faith passed on to us by the Apostles.
I don’t believe for one minute that my little voice will make even a modicum of difference in the CHA’s policy direction. I do believe, though, that it is my responsibility to share my concerns, and to encourage others to express their concerns as well–inviting the Catholic Health Association to abide by Church teaching, and to return to the faith passed on to us by the Apostles.
For G.K. Chesterton's birthday, a 30-quote salute...
For Chesterton’s Birthday, a 30-Quote Salute!: Our Civilization has decided, and very justly decided, that determining the guilt or innocence of men is a thing too important to be trusted to trained men. It wishes for light upon that awful matter, it asks men to know no more law than I know, but who can feel the thing that I felt in the jury box. When it wants a library catalogued, or the solar system discovered, or any trifle of that kind, it uses up its specialists. But when it wishes anything done which is really serious, it collects twelve of the ordinary men standing round. The same thing was done, if I remember right, by the founder of Christianity.For
What's your happiness level?
What’s Your Happiness Level?LONGENECKER: The first level which I call “Animal” simply refers to our primal physical needs. We need food. We need drink. We need sex. We need shelter. We need power. We need warmth. The thing we need for survival bring us a certain level of satisfaction and happiness, but because we are more than animals we have greater needs and desires.
The second level is very interesting. Fr Spitzer points out how this level of need develops in later childhood and adolescence. He calls it “ego-comparitive”. This is the need to achieve and the need to gain self esteem not only through achieving, but through winning and not only through winning, but by defeating others. We gain self esteem not only through accomplishment on its own, but by being better than someone else. Thus in Middle School and High School the emphasis on sports, academic awards, artistic achievement and other awards becomes important to us. We gain satisfaction by being better.
The second level is very interesting. Fr Spitzer points out how this level of need develops in later childhood and adolescence. He calls it “ego-comparitive”. This is the need to achieve and the need to gain self esteem not only through achieving, but through winning and not only through winning, but by defeating others. We gain self esteem not only through accomplishment on its own, but by being better than someone else. Thus in Middle School and High School the emphasis on sports, academic awards, artistic achievement and other awards becomes important to us. We gain satisfaction by being better.
Trust in the Lord and leave the real heavy lifting of evangelization to the Holy Spirit
Workplace Witnesses Part 3 | Kevin Lowry: A Grateful ConvertLOWRY: One of my favorite stories in scripture is in Acts chapter 5. The apostles are hauled in front of the Sanhedrin, accused of preaching the gospel. For their troubles, they were flogged. Flogged! Then scripture tells us the most astonishing thing.
They left rejoicing.
Rejoicing! Can you imagine? “So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been found worth to suffer for the sake of the name.” It’s incredible. The way the apostles accepted hardship offers a huge challenge – and opportunity – for us today.
They left rejoicing.
Rejoicing! Can you imagine? “So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been found worth to suffer for the sake of the name.” It’s incredible. The way the apostles accepted hardship offers a huge challenge – and opportunity – for us today.
Silence is precious and is a necessary ingredient for your spiritual life
Silence Is Necessary – On Cultivating Silence in Our Soul � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: I suppose it goes without saying that we live in a very fast-paced, hectic, and noisy world. We’re often in a big hurry to get somewhere. Stress is the norm and noise is all around us in the form of radios, televisions, iPods, etc. We’re plugged in but often tuned out. Very few of us live at the pace or volume of normal life.
So overstimulated are we that many literally cannot relax when it is quiet; silence unnerves them. I recently took an informal poll in a class I was teaching and found that 40% of the students said they cannot fall asleep without a television or radio playing in the background. Many phones and clock-radios have a “sleep” function to allow them to play for a certain amount of time and then turn off (presumably after we have fallen asleep). We used to set our clock-radios to wake us up; now we use them to “soothe” us to sleep with their background noise.
So overstimulated are we that many literally cannot relax when it is quiet; silence unnerves them. I recently took an informal poll in a class I was teaching and found that 40% of the students said they cannot fall asleep without a television or radio playing in the background. Many phones and clock-radios have a “sleep” function to allow them to play for a certain amount of time and then turn off (presumably after we have fallen asleep). We used to set our clock-radios to wake us up; now we use them to “soothe” us to sleep with their background noise.
5 tips for praying at Mass while taking care of a toddler
5 Tips for Praying at Mass While Taking Care of a Toddler | ChurchPOPSPENCER: A lot of things change when you have your first baby, including your experience of going to church.
For the most part babies are easy to soothe and you will be able to pray during Mass. Then one day your sweet, easy to soothe baby at church turns into a toddler.
The toddler prefers to be moving continually throughout all of Mass, and she does not quite grasp the concept of a whisper. Sometimes she throws herself across the pew and announces loudly, “I AM A FISH!” Other times she repeats, “Donuts? Donuts?” for the entire hour. All the time you are either pacing in back, struggling in the pew, or resigned to sitting in the cry room. And you ask yourself, what happened to praying at church?
For the most part babies are easy to soothe and you will be able to pray during Mass. Then one day your sweet, easy to soothe baby at church turns into a toddler.
The toddler prefers to be moving continually throughout all of Mass, and she does not quite grasp the concept of a whisper. Sometimes she throws herself across the pew and announces loudly, “I AM A FISH!” Other times she repeats, “Donuts? Donuts?” for the entire hour. All the time you are either pacing in back, struggling in the pew, or resigned to sitting in the cry room. And you ask yourself, what happened to praying at church?
Thursday, May 28, 2015
Gee, your corpse smells terrific!
Gee, Your Corpse Smells Terrific! |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: I've just witnessed a miracle! My guilty reading pleasure, the tell-all, anything-goes, don't-you-judge-me women's site XO Jane has published a remarkably unsnarky and informative piece on incorruptibles -- the saints whose bodies have not decomposed as expected, presumably as an outward sign of inward holiness. The author gives a brief, accessible overview of some famous incorruptibles, and explains how recent investigations have thrown some doubt on the miraculous nature of the bodies' preservation. But her tone is more of fascination and even fondness than of derision, and she graciously concludes
Homosexual activists shut down event honoring Clemson coach, disrupt Jennifer Roback Morse talk...
Clemson’s Dabo Swinney Capitulates to Bullies, Will Not Attend Palmetto Event in His HonorSCHIFFER: Dabo Swinney, coach of Clemson University’s football team, will not attend an award ceremony next week honoring him for his support of religious freedom.
The Palmetto Family Council, a South Carolina nonprofit organization, planned to honor Swinney as a “defender of religious liberty” in the “Celebrating Families 2015″ event at the beautiful Seibels House and Garden in Columbia, SC, on June 2. In choosing Coach Swinney as this year’s recipient, the Palmetto Family Council praised his accomplishments, specifically the great work of his foundation, serving as a great role model, and the strong testimony of his personal relationship with Christ.
The Palmetto Family Council, a South Carolina nonprofit organization, planned to honor Swinney as a “defender of religious liberty” in the “Celebrating Families 2015″ event at the beautiful Seibels House and Garden in Columbia, SC, on June 2. In choosing Coach Swinney as this year’s recipient, the Palmetto Family Council praised his accomplishments, specifically the great work of his foundation, serving as a great role model, and the strong testimony of his personal relationship with Christ.
The Latin oration at this year's Harvard Commencement was a tour de force. See for yourself...
New Advent: The Latin oration at this year's Harvard Commencement is a tour de force. See for yourself...: Read more about Jim McGlone in this Harvard Gazette profile. And as New Advent's tipster notes, "Jim is the first Latin orator in living memory to use the ecclesiastical pronunciation (as opposed to the reconstructed classical pronunciation) in the Harvard Latin oration."
Complaints prompt Catholic university to remove statue of priest praying over Indians
Complaints prompt Catholic university to remove statue of priest praying over Indians: Saint Louis University has removed a statue on its campus depicting a famous Jesuit missionary priest praying over American Indians after a cohort of students and faculty continued to complain the sculpture symbolized white supremacy, racism and colonialism.
Formerly placed outside the university’s Fusz Hall in the center of the private Catholic university, the statue will go to the university’s art museum, a building just north of the bustling urban campus.
The statue features famous Jesuit Missionary Pierre-Jean De Smet S.J. praying over two American Indians dressed in traditional clothing. Last Monday, just two days after graduation, it was removed from the location it has called home on campus for decades.
Formerly placed outside the university’s Fusz Hall in the center of the private Catholic university, the statue will go to the university’s art museum, a building just north of the bustling urban campus.
The statue features famous Jesuit Missionary Pierre-Jean De Smet S.J. praying over two American Indians dressed in traditional clothing. Last Monday, just two days after graduation, it was removed from the location it has called home on campus for decades.
Abortionists have killed more Americans than lived in the U.S. in 1880
Abortionists Have Killed More Americans Than Lived in U.S. in 1880: The number of American babies who have been aborted in the years since the Supreme Court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision has already exceeded the entire population of the United States as recorded in the 1880 Census.
This is according to numbers published by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Guttmacher Institute.
This is according to numbers published by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Guttmacher Institute.
For the Vatican Bank, a new direction means profitability
For the Vatican Bank, a New Direction Means Profitability | Daily News | NCRegister.comGAGLIARDUCCI: The Vatican Bank’s net profits in 2014 jumped to $75.5 million from only $3.2 million the previous year, reflecting a change in its financial management and investments.
The Institute for Religious Works (IOR), known informally as the 'Vatican bank', released its third annual report on May 25. The report registered a massive increase in net profits.
This increase may be attributed both to a sharp rise in the bank’s net trading income and to a decline of its extraordinary operating expenses, like the costs of hiring external consultants to monitor and screen the IOR accounts.
The Institute for Religious Works (IOR), known informally as the 'Vatican bank', released its third annual report on May 25. The report registered a massive increase in net profits.
This increase may be attributed both to a sharp rise in the bank’s net trading income and to a decline of its extraordinary operating expenses, like the costs of hiring external consultants to monitor and screen the IOR accounts.
Deep joy and difficult suffering: St. Teresa of Avila on why we need both...
Deep Joy, Difficult Suffering: Teresa of Avila on Why We Need Both |Blogs | NCRegister.comDANBURKE: The purpose of the newest book in the Navigating the Interior Life book series, 30 Days with Teresa of Avila, is to reveal the unique personality, wisdom, and insight that often emerges out of the letters of the saints. These letters are a window into Saint Teresa’s genuine humanity, witness, and pragmatic advice for pursuing an intimate friendship with God.
I’ll be sharing some of the letters here, in the hope that you’ll be inspired to spend time prayerfully reflecting on them. Today, I'm sharing from Day 17.
I’ll be sharing some of the letters here, in the hope that you’ll be inspired to spend time prayerfully reflecting on them. Today, I'm sharing from Day 17.
Music vet teams up with Carmelite Sisters to create a collection of chamber folk
‘Lean Into the Wind’ Review: Sacred Studio Sessions - WSJ: One November day in 2013, producer and Grammy-winning engineer Tom Weir found several unexpected visitors at his recording studio in Studio City, Calif. Representing their colleagues in the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, the visitors told Mr. Weir they wanted to make an album, one that was more contemporary sounding than their previous ones. Could he help?
As you go out into the world to serve God, don't lose our soul in the process...
How to Serve God and Not Lose Your Soul | Philip KosloskiKOSLOSKI: Let’s envision a common scenario. A college graduate is on fire with the faith and can not wait to get involved in youth ministry. They apply to 10 different jobs and are finally hired to help run a youth ministry program for a large suburban parish. Before coming there, the youth ministry program was non-existent and the pastor now wants to focus on building up a strong youth group.
The top 5 heresies to avoid this Trinity Sunday
Dear Priests: The Top 5 Heresies to Avoid This Trinity Sunday | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: Trinity Sunday is a special day each year when Christians are called to especially dwell on that great mystery of the Christian faith: the Trinity. There is only one God, but that one God has revealed himself to us as eternally existing as three distinct, co-equal, co-eternal persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
The doctrine of the Trinity is arguably the most important doctrine of the Church, since it is regarding the very nature of God. It’s also one of the most confusing and misunderstood. So Trinity Sunday is a great time for priests to clear up misconceptions among their flock.
The doctrine of the Trinity is arguably the most important doctrine of the Church, since it is regarding the very nature of God. It’s also one of the most confusing and misunderstood. So Trinity Sunday is a great time for priests to clear up misconceptions among their flock.
St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Pope Benedict and the Miracle at Lourdes
St. Therese of Lisieux, Pope Benedict & The Miracle at LourdesTURLEY: On the night I arrived at Lourdes, I made my way to an English language Mass. Facing the Grotto on the far side of the river Gave was a modern church, concrete and ascetically uninspiring, however, within minutes of walking into its packed auditorium a voice called my name, and turning I saw some familiar faces.
It was a family I had known back in England. They were not vacationing at Lourdes, just passing through, staying over the border in Spain. They were not supposed to have attended that particular Mass but somehow their plans had derailed and had ended up there nonetheless. And so we were reunited.
It was a family I had known back in England. They were not vacationing at Lourdes, just passing through, staying over the border in Spain. They were not supposed to have attended that particular Mass but somehow their plans had derailed and had ended up there nonetheless. And so we were reunited.
The color blue is a May tribute to Our Lady
The Color Blue: A May Tribute to Our LadySTAUDT: I recently heard a piece on NPR about the color blue. At first, I thought “you have to be kidding me.” Maybe that’s what you’re thinking right now as you begin this article. A reference to Homer caught my attention and pulled me into the rest of the piece. I have been intrigued by Homer’s use of color. How can anyone forget his reference to the wine dark sea?
If certain images of color stand out in Homer due to their repetition, color is nonetheless used sparingly in his epics. Mostly he refers to black and white. And here is the kicker—never to the color blue. In numerous linguistic studies, it has been established that there is a general pattern of development in which languages introduce words for certain colors. Though there are some variations, one thing remains constant, blue is the last color name to be named as a language progresses (when it is differentiated from green). Blue is a rare color in nature, appearing only in a small percentage of plants and animals (listen to the NPR piece for an explanation of how the sky’s color was perceived in ancient times).
If certain images of color stand out in Homer due to their repetition, color is nonetheless used sparingly in his epics. Mostly he refers to black and white. And here is the kicker—never to the color blue. In numerous linguistic studies, it has been established that there is a general pattern of development in which languages introduce words for certain colors. Though there are some variations, one thing remains constant, blue is the last color name to be named as a language progresses (when it is differentiated from green). Blue is a rare color in nature, appearing only in a small percentage of plants and animals (listen to the NPR piece for an explanation of how the sky’s color was perceived in ancient times).
What John Elway’s Deflategate comment can teach us about integrity
What John Elway’s Deflategate Comment Can Teach Us About Integrity and the Church | Mountain CatholicSEWELL: Even the non-football fan has likely heard rumblings about the NFL fining the New England Patriots and suspending their star quarterback for being big fat cheaters (again) and secretly letting a little air out of footballs to gain a competitive edge throughout last season.
The whole league erupted with commentary after Commissioner Roger Goodell brought the hammer down, but I found the comment from John Elway, GM of my beloved Denver Broncos, the most intriguing.
The whole league erupted with commentary after Commissioner Roger Goodell brought the hammer down, but I found the comment from John Elway, GM of my beloved Denver Broncos, the most intriguing.
Nothing but net
Nothing but netERLANDSON: An old friend passed away today.
It was one of those basketball hoops that stand alone on a tall metal tube, with a heavy plastic base filled with anti-freeze to keep it weighted down and to avoid cracking with winter’s freezes.
It was so rusted from its years standing sentry on my driveway that my neighbor had to cut the bolts with a power saw. The pieces were taken down to the curb with the faint hope that perhaps a local junk man will cart it off to be recycled before the trash truck scoops up the remains.
It was one of those basketball hoops that stand alone on a tall metal tube, with a heavy plastic base filled with anti-freeze to keep it weighted down and to avoid cracking with winter’s freezes.
It was so rusted from its years standing sentry on my driveway that my neighbor had to cut the bolts with a power saw. The pieces were taken down to the curb with the faint hope that perhaps a local junk man will cart it off to be recycled before the trash truck scoops up the remains.
It isn’t enough for pro-lifers to be “innocent as doves.” We must also be “wise as serpents”...
The pro-life art of war | Opinion | LifeSiteJASONJONES: Imagine if same-sex marriage were prohibited nationwide, and legal protections for homosexuals consistently struck down or defeated—while sodomy laws were re-imposed and enforced, with billions of dollars in funding from Congress. How effective would you consider the gay rights movement?
If the Second Amendment were reduced to a hollow, meaningless shell, and Americans’ guns—even hunting and target rifles—were all confiscated by the feds, what would we think of the gun lobby?
If the Second Amendment were reduced to a hollow, meaningless shell, and Americans’ guns—even hunting and target rifles—were all confiscated by the feds, what would we think of the gun lobby?
The surprising Catholic history of pretzels
The Surprising Catholic History of Pretzels |Blogs | NCRegister.comARCHBOLD: When I moved to Philadelphia I was surprised by the number of guys on the side of the roads selling pretzels. I never buy food from anyone who doesn't have a bathroom but forgetting that, the whole thing just took me a while to get used to. As a New Yorker, I was used to people selling hot dogs but not pretzels on street corners.
Now, my kids love pretzels. And I'm cool with that, mainly because I've recently discovered that pretzels have a long Catholic history. And they may have saved Christian Europe. Kinda.
Now, my kids love pretzels. And I'm cool with that, mainly because I've recently discovered that pretzels have a long Catholic history. And they may have saved Christian Europe. Kinda.
Colombia is a factory for Catholicism’s new brand of martyrs
Colombia is a factory for Catholicism’s new brand of martyrs | CruxALLEN: If you’ve ever wondered what happens while being held prisoner for three days by one of the world’s last remaining Marxist guerrilla movements, Bishop Héctor Julio López Hurtado of Colombia has a somewhat surprising answer: A remarkable amount of time can be devoted to dinner.
López, now 73, was kidnapped at gunpoint in 1997 by a band of teenage soldiers belonging to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known by its Spanish acronym FARC.
López, now 73, was kidnapped at gunpoint in 1997 by a band of teenage soldiers belonging to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known by its Spanish acronym FARC.
11 things that happen to parents who bring their kids to Mass
11 Things That Happen To Parents Who Bring Their Kids To Mass - Epic Pew: With kids squirming in the pew comes some attention from fellow parishioners. Whether your kids are doing something cute or naughty, people just can’t seem to keep their eyes off your family. I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve wanted to yell,”Take a picture! It’ll last longer!” Don’t succumb to the temptation.
Jesus Christ is the Conqueror of Satan, and constantly warns us about him...
New Evangelization for Catholic men | The New Emangelization: Satan continues to vigorously corrupt Man to rebel against God (CCC 414) in overt ways: the barbarous murders of Christians by Islamic terrorists; the institutionalized murder of abortion; government endorsement of sinful sexual behaviors (e.g. contraception, pornography as free speech, the legalization of homosexual acts); the growing euthanasia movement; legal attacks against God and Christians; coercion to accept same-sex faux marriage; Satan worship.
Satan is also acts in subtle ways to corrupt: contraception as a “right”; mainstreaming of single parenthood; radical feminism that divides women and men; “gender theory” that proliferates “orientations”; increasing control and manipulation by governments and corporations; rampant materialism; stifling of free speech and religion; education systems that indoctrinate but fail to teach; the earth-worship of perverted environmentalism; political systems built on divisive identity politics; selective acceptance of racism and sexism; the expansion of no-fault divorce; technology-powered propaganda of perverted causes; growing totalitarianism of pluralism/relativism.
Satan is also acts in subtle ways to corrupt: contraception as a “right”; mainstreaming of single parenthood; radical feminism that divides women and men; “gender theory” that proliferates “orientations”; increasing control and manipulation by governments and corporations; rampant materialism; stifling of free speech and religion; education systems that indoctrinate but fail to teach; the earth-worship of perverted environmentalism; political systems built on divisive identity politics; selective acceptance of racism and sexism; the expansion of no-fault divorce; technology-powered propaganda of perverted causes; growing totalitarianism of pluralism/relativism.
Three simple paths to interior peace
Three Simple Paths to Interior Peace: I was born a restless child and never faltered from my constant busyness into adulthood.� The restlessness within was twofold: One, I tended toward generalized anxiety (e.g., fear of everything), and two, I grew up in a household rife with inconstancy and unexpected strife.� To their credit, my parents raised my brother and me with rhythm and routine, but my brother’s burgeoning psychological diagnoses during early adolescence hurled the rest of us into a steady stream of uncertainty and panic.
Nebraska abolishes death penalty in landmark bipartisan override vote
Nebraska abolishes death penalty in landmark override vote | Politics - KETV Home: Nebraska has abolished the death penalty in a landmark veto-override vote backed by a coalition of conservatives who oppose capital punishment.
On betrothal and the importance of marriage preparation
General Audience: On Betrothal | ZENIT - The World Seen From RomePOPEFRANCIS: The covenant of love between man and woman, a covenant for life, is not improvised; it is not made from one day to another. There is no express marriage: one must work on love, one must journey. The alliance of love of man and woman is learned and refined. I allow myself to say that it is a crafted alliance. To make two lives only one life, is also almost a miracle, a miracle of freedom and of the heart, entrusted to faith. Perhaps we must make more of an effort on this point, because our “sentimental coordinates” have become somewhat confused.
How a California woman fell in love with a Swiss Guard
How a California Woman Fell in Love With a Vatican Swiss Guard - ABC News: This isn’t a fairy tale. It’s the true story of a woman from Huntington Beach, California, who fell in love after asking a question of a Swiss Guard while on vacation at the Vatican.
Miranda Emde, 31, had written down 16 requirements for her future husband in April 2013 -- among them, that he be a “chivalrous knight” who was “noble, dignified and humble,” and that he be “comfortable in his own skin.”
“I had narrowed it down from about 50, and I knew I would never compromise on my list,” Emde told ABC News.
Miranda Emde, 31, had written down 16 requirements for her future husband in April 2013 -- among them, that he be a “chivalrous knight” who was “noble, dignified and humble,” and that he be “comfortable in his own skin.”
“I had narrowed it down from about 50, and I knew I would never compromise on my list,” Emde told ABC News.
11 fascinating personal things about Pope Francis we learned in his latest interview
11 Fascinating Personal Things About Pope Francis We Learned In His Latest Interview | ChurchPOPMILLEGAN: Pope Francis recently gave an incredible interview to the Argentinian newspaper La Voz de Pueblo in Spanish. Aleteia has posted a full English translation (from which the short excerpts below are quoted).
And what an interview it was! It touched on a broad range of topics, including why Pope Francis doesn’t watch TV to what he thinks are the worst evils in the world today, and much more.
And what an interview it was! It touched on a broad range of topics, including why Pope Francis doesn’t watch TV to what he thinks are the worst evils in the world today, and much more.
It is hard to think of anyone who combined evil and stupid ideas so consistently as Ayn Rand...
The Childish Ayn Rand - AleteiaMILLS: Had she not become a guru, Ayn Rand would have been the kind of person few people really like who still accumulates admiring followers, whom she would banish for the slightest deviation from total devotion. She would have been a particularly mean Mean Girl, terrorizing some suburban high school and then a middle class suburb. Judging from the stories told even by her admirers, she seems not to have had friends, only inner circles. In one story I remember, her devotees rose one by one to say who had most influenced their lives. The only acceptable answer was, of course, Ayn Rand. A young man rose and began talking about a friend who’d helped him when his parents divorced, was sharply rebuked, and thrown out.
The Irish vote is worse than perverse. It is blasphemous...
New Advent: The Irish vote is worse than perverse. It is blasphemous...RUTLER: The landslide vote in Eire for legalizing the fictitious form of marriage between persons of the same sex, in contradiction of all laws natural and divine, unearths the pulsating Druidism that Saint Patrick and his fellow saints defied. The estimated $17 million from pressure groups in the United States is no excuse, for people will only be pressured if they are willing to be pressured. The other dismal fact is that over 90% of the young people influenced to subscribe to this vote were formed in Catholic schools. The vote was less in favor of perversion and more in hostility to a Church whose Jansenism and clericalism had incubated corruption and lassitude. While most of Europe suffers from the deadly sin of indifference, or sloth, Ireland is in adolescent rebellion, virulent and irrational. This was exploited by political interests hostile to Christian civilization, and their propaganda combined legitimate accusations against ecclesial failings with a left-wing, secularist agenda.
A challenge to men to "believe the things that are almost impossible"
New Advent: A challenge to men to "believe the things that are almost impossible": Visit the Family Missions Company here to consider your next step...
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
List of participants who attended Gregorian 'Shadow Synod' released
List of Participants Who Attended Gregorian 'Shadow Synod' |Blogs | NCRegister.comPENTIN: Monday’s unannounced study-day at the Pontifical Gregorian University, organized by the heads of the Swiss, French and German bishops' conferences, was attended by at least nine bishops from those countries.
We publish their names below along with most of those who were also present.
The meeting, which aimed to explore various “pastoral innovations” ahead of the Synod on the Family in October, and reflect on a new “theology of love” that critics say would pave the way for Church recognition of same-sex relationships, was not advertised, even at the Gregorian.
We publish their names below along with most of those who were also present.
The meeting, which aimed to explore various “pastoral innovations” ahead of the Synod on the Family in October, and reflect on a new “theology of love” that critics say would pave the way for Church recognition of same-sex relationships, was not advertised, even at the Gregorian.
Pope to engaged couples at Wednesday Audience: "Prepare for marriage with wisdom, hope and joy"
Pope to Engaged Couples: Prepare for Wedding Day With Wisdom, Hope and Joy of Faith in Christ | Daily News | NCRegister.com: In his weekly general audience, Pope Francis said the process of engagement is essential for any couple on their way to marriage, since it not only allows love to mature, but helps future spouses deepen their knowledge of one another.
“Marriage, as a vocation from God, is not just a relationship based on attraction and feelings, of a moment, of something short. It requires a journey,” the Pope told pilgrims present in St. Peter’s Square for his May 27 general audience.
“Marriage, as a vocation from God, is not just a relationship based on attraction and feelings, of a moment, of something short. It requires a journey,” the Pope told pilgrims present in St. Peter’s Square for his May 27 general audience.
One of the most amazing Catholic "ghosts" ever spotted at GetReligion
Happy couple has 100 grandkids: Can you (as opposed to AP) spot the religion ghost? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: So let's say that you are reading a story about a nice elderly couple in Illinois named Leo and Ruth Zanger. The story appeared in the Quincy Herald-Whig that was picked up by the Associated Press, which is why several people saw it and sent me stunned, even incredulous notes.
Now, the key to this story is that Leo and Ruth Zanger recently celebrated the birth of their 100th grandchild. Thus, here is the top of the story...
Now, the key to this story is that Leo and Ruth Zanger recently celebrated the birth of their 100th grandchild. Thus, here is the top of the story...
Priest reacts to Charlie Charlie Challenge: "We are opening our kids to real spiritual warfare"...
Priest Reacts to CharlieChallenge: Reclaim the Internet for Christ |Blogs | NCRegister.comDESMOND: When Father Stephen McCarthy, the chaplain of Sts. John Neumann and Maria Goretti Catholic High School, sent a May 25 email message warning students about a popular social media game that encouraged kids to "play with demons," he never intended to get his name in the paper.
But when a friend forwarded a British tabloid story about the CharlieCharlieChallenge with his photograph, the Philadelphia priest realized he had struck a nerve.
"It boggles my mind that my email was so newsworthy. Did it take me to say this? Was this unknown to Catholics?" asked Father McCarthy during a May 27 telephone interview.
The response shows we need to empower our parents to tell their kids right from wrong -- not only in terms of moral and social issues, but spiritually, as well."
Secular media has generally portrayed a game that encourages kids to play with demons as harmless, but Father McCarthy challenges that judgment.
But when a friend forwarded a British tabloid story about the CharlieCharlieChallenge with his photograph, the Philadelphia priest realized he had struck a nerve.
"It boggles my mind that my email was so newsworthy. Did it take me to say this? Was this unknown to Catholics?" asked Father McCarthy during a May 27 telephone interview.
The response shows we need to empower our parents to tell their kids right from wrong -- not only in terms of moral and social issues, but spiritually, as well."
Secular media has generally portrayed a game that encourages kids to play with demons as harmless, but Father McCarthy challenges that judgment.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Coming to a post office near you: The Flannery O'Connor postage stamp...
Coming To A Post Office Near You: The Flannery O’Connor Postage StampWEATHERS: There it is, with peacock feathers, and everthang. It’s supposed to be available come June 5th, or so. More information can be found out about the stamp, and about Ms. O’Connor, right cheer.
I’m kinda bummed that it’s the 3 ounce, $.93 variety. Oh well, we’ll buy a few anyway, just for the wonder of it. I kinda miss her horn rimmed glasses, though.
Speaking of wonders, you know what’s hilarious? Outfits like Jezebel waxing enthusiastic about a stamp commemorating Flannery. Because if anyone has anything in common with the author of Wise Blood, and A Good Man Is Hard To Find, it’s the average Jezebel reader.
I’m kinda bummed that it’s the 3 ounce, $.93 variety. Oh well, we’ll buy a few anyway, just for the wonder of it. I kinda miss her horn rimmed glasses, though.
Speaking of wonders, you know what’s hilarious? Outfits like Jezebel waxing enthusiastic about a stamp commemorating Flannery. Because if anyone has anything in common with the author of Wise Blood, and A Good Man Is Hard To Find, it’s the average Jezebel reader.
How to think like a poet
How To Think Like a Poet: All art is symbolic. If we understand a symbol to be the bodying forth of an abstraction, or the outward expression of the inward, all art is symbolic. Our culture, however, has great difficulty in understanding this simple premise, and therefore has a very limited ability to understand art. Our culture tends either to interpret literature in a purely literal way—as in reading a novel for the plot, or for the “relatable” quality of a character—or to concern itself purely with the ideas of a work—as in classrooms around the country where great books are taught as if they were mere receptacles for ideas, the primary concern being what students always call the “hidden meaning.”
12 right-on-the-money quotes from Flannery O'Connor
12 Right-on-the-Money Quotes from Flannery O'Connor | ChurchPOP: Flannery O’Connor is considered one of the best Catholic writers of the 20th century. And she had quite the wit…
On keeping our kids Catholic: The indispensable minimum...
On Keeping Our Kids Catholic: The Indispensable Minimum | God-Haunted LunaticBECKER: This might sound callous, but I just don’t think it’s our job as parents to keep our kids in the Church, even in the short-term. That’s God’s job and, frankly, the job of our kids once they’re making decisions for themselves. Our job as parents is a lot more prosaic – and, consequently, a lot more challenging. “Parents have the most grave obligation,” reads the Code of Canon Law, “to do all in their power to ensure their children’s physical, social, cultural, moral and religious upbringing.” In other words, our grave obligation as far as the Faith is concerned is comparable to our obligations regarding food and shelter: Provide what is necessary for our children to thrive and flourish – to give them a good start on making it on their own. “Why?” Fr. John Hardon asks of this grave obligation to form our kids in the Faith. “In order to prepare them for eternal life in heaven. The only reason under God that parents even should bring children into the world is to prepare them for heaven.” Thus, it’s not my job to keep my children on the straight and narrow trajectory toward eternal life, but rather to prepare them for undertaking that task themselves.
The full magnitude of the problem
And Sometimes Tea: The full magnitude of the problemMANNING: At Rod Dreher’s blog last week there was a very interesting and civil discussion of the recent Pew report on various religions and their rate of growth or shrinking. �Rod asked what Evangelicals were doing right, and what Catholics might be doing wrong?
Pretty much everybody agrees that this sort of thing is NOT what Evangelicals are doing right. :)
But I was more interested in the various comments from Catholics, most of them regular churchgoers, about where and how the Catholic Church might improve in terms of practical matters. �One commenter in particular, who uses the screen name Agathonika, wrote what I think was a very important comment, and she has give me permission to quote her here
Pretty much everybody agrees that this sort of thing is NOT what Evangelicals are doing right. :)
But I was more interested in the various comments from Catholics, most of them regular churchgoers, about where and how the Catholic Church might improve in terms of practical matters. �One commenter in particular, who uses the screen name Agathonika, wrote what I think was a very important comment, and she has give me permission to quote her here
Golden Gate Bridge builders ate special meals to prevent dizziness...
Golden Gate Bridge builders ate special meals to prevent dizziness: Strong tides, swirling currents, deep water, strong winds and fog — engineers long argued that such conditions meant bridging the Golden Gate was either impossible or prohibitively expensive. But one engineer took a different view.�
Joseph Strauss was�an expert in inland drawbridges, with no experience in large scale projects, yet he submitted plans for a bridge that could be built for a quarter of the generally accepted figure. He suggested it would pay for itself by tolls alone.�In December 1922, Strauss' design was readily accepted by city authorities.
Joseph Strauss was�an expert in inland drawbridges, with no experience in large scale projects, yet he submitted plans for a bridge that could be built for a quarter of the generally accepted figure. He suggested it would pay for itself by tolls alone.�In December 1922, Strauss' design was readily accepted by city authorities.
Job's Behemoth wasn’t a dinosaur, and it undermines the Church to promote such a preposterous idea...
Was Job's Behemoth a Dinosaur? | Catholic AnswersKEATING: The Kolbe Center for the Study of Creation is a creationist organization for Catholics. It holds to the idea that our world was created in six literal days and that the Earth is very young—at most about 10,000 years old.
This stance poses difficulties, such as how to account for the fossil record. When did all those extinct animals live—particularly the interesting ones, such as dinosaurs? The Kolbe Center’s position is that dinosaurs and man lived contemporaneously, with dinosaurs dying out early in man’s history.
This stance poses difficulties, such as how to account for the fossil record. When did all those extinct animals live—particularly the interesting ones, such as dinosaurs? The Kolbe Center’s position is that dinosaurs and man lived contemporaneously, with dinosaurs dying out early in man’s history.
Is there a vocation to the single life? I think not, and here's why...
Is There a Vocation to the Single Life? I Think Not and Here’s Why � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: There are some today who think that the Church should give greater recognition to the “call” to the single life. And therefore when we pray for vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and marriage in the Prayer of the Faithful (or at other times) some will say, “Why don’t you ever pray for those called to the single life or mention the vocation to the single life?” Here in the blog, too, when I write about vocations there are usually some who comment and ask why I do not mention the vocation to the single life.
Time Magazine: Newer birth control pills triple the risk of blood clots (warning: autoplay video)
Newer Birth Control Pills Raise the Risk of Blood Clots | TIME: Blood clots have been a known risk of oral contraceptives since the 1990s, but for most women, the chances seemed small enough to justify taking the Pill. Now, in a report published in The BMJ, scientists led by Yana Vinogradova, a research fellow at the University of Nottingham, found that using the Pill was linked to anywhere from a two- to more than four-fold increased risk of developing clots compared to women who didn’t take oral contraceptives.
The assumption of faith has fallen away. This is the collapse of casual Christianity...
The end of casual Christianity - The Washington PostGERSON: For conservative Christians, a psychological adjustment is taking place. In a de-Christianized culture, it becomes harder to imagine yourself part of a “moral majority.” This was never quite true, but now, with the decline of casual Christianity, it is incredible. So how do 62 million evangelical Christians and other theological conservatives — not a majority but a significant minority — view themselves and their cultural role?
One option, clearly, is for conservative Christians to imagine themselves as an aggrieved and repressed remnant. This attitude is expressed as stridency, but it is really the fear of lost social position. America, once viewed as the New Israel, becomes the new Babylon. The church engages the world to diagnose decadence and defend its own rights.
There is, however, another option being explored.
One option, clearly, is for conservative Christians to imagine themselves as an aggrieved and repressed remnant. This attitude is expressed as stridency, but it is really the fear of lost social position. America, once viewed as the New Israel, becomes the new Babylon. The church engages the world to diagnose decadence and defend its own rights.
There is, however, another option being explored.
When Hell has a hashtag
When Hell Has a Hashtag |Blogs | NCRegister.comFISHER: I was chatting with my husband about how these things are forbidden even if we don't really believe they will work, and he pointed out that the devil may actually prefer it when people sell their souls lightly. "That's what the devil wants, even more than satanists," he said: �"Dummies selling their souls as a joke." And then, just to annoy me, he quoted awful old William S. Bourroughs
Has the last human trekked to the North Pole?
Has the Last Human Trekked to the North Pole?: Faced with a dearth of logistical support and challenges related to climate change, human-powered trips to the North Pole may be on the brink of extinction.
"North Pole expeditions are going the way of the passenger pigeon," says Eric Larsen, a Colorado-based polar explorer who has completed three North Pole expeditions.
According to Tom Sjogren from adventurestats.com, the record-keeper of Arctic feats, a true North Pole expedition must travel from the coastline of Alaska, Greenland, Canada, or Russia over the polar ice mass to the North Pole, which sits at a latitude of 90 degrees north. Once the journey to the North Pole has been completed, it's acceptable to get picked up by helicopter or plane.
"North Pole expeditions are going the way of the passenger pigeon," says Eric Larsen, a Colorado-based polar explorer who has completed three North Pole expeditions.
According to Tom Sjogren from adventurestats.com, the record-keeper of Arctic feats, a true North Pole expedition must travel from the coastline of Alaska, Greenland, Canada, or Russia over the polar ice mass to the North Pole, which sits at a latitude of 90 degrees north. Once the journey to the North Pole has been completed, it's acceptable to get picked up by helicopter or plane.
Closed-door meeting seeks to sway Synod to accept same-sex unions; cardinal and bishops involved
Confidential Meeting Seeks to Sway Synod to Accept Same-Sex Unions | Daily News | NCRegister.comPENTIN: A one-day study meeting — open only to a select group of individuals — took place at the Pontifical Gregorian University on Monday with the aim of urging “pastoral innovations” at the upcoming Synod on the Family in October.
Around 50 participants, including bishops, theologians and media representatives took part in the gathering, at the invitation of the presidents of the bishops’ conferences of Germany, Switzerland and France — Cardinal Reinhard Marx, Bishop Markus Büchel and Archbishop Georges Pontier.
Around 50 participants, including bishops, theologians and media representatives took part in the gathering, at the invitation of the presidents of the bishops’ conferences of Germany, Switzerland and France — Cardinal Reinhard Marx, Bishop Markus Büchel and Archbishop Georges Pontier.
Did Pope Francis say it doesn’t matter what kind of Christian you are? 9 things to know...
Did Pope Francis say it doesn’t matter what kind of Christian you are? 9 things to know |Blogs | NCRegister.comAKIN: Recently I’ve received several queries about a video message that Pope Francis sent to an ecumenical gathering in Arizona.
A Zenit news story implied that the pope stated that Jesus doesn’t care what kind of Christian you are.
But that’s not what he said at all. The Catholic news agency Zenit did a piece reporting on the video message, but the Zenit story is flatly incorrect.
Both the headline and the passage quoted above mistake the pope as speaking about Jesus when he is actually speaking about the devil—that is, he is saying that the devil doesn’t care what kind of Christian you are.
A Zenit news story implied that the pope stated that Jesus doesn’t care what kind of Christian you are.
But that’s not what he said at all. The Catholic news agency Zenit did a piece reporting on the video message, but the Zenit story is flatly incorrect.
Both the headline and the passage quoted above mistake the pope as speaking about Jesus when he is actually speaking about the devil—that is, he is saying that the devil doesn’t care what kind of Christian you are.
What does Pope Francis miss most? Walking in the streets, eating pizza at restaurants...
What does Pope Francis miss most? Walking in the streets, eating pizza at restaurants :: Catholic News Agency (CNA): In a recent interview with an Argentine newspaper, Pope Francis said he misses the “tranquillity of walking in the streets” and that he's always been “callejero” – a man of the city.
The interview was published May 24, and is the result of a 45 minute meeting between the pontiff and a journalist and photographer from “La voz del Pueblo.” They spoke in the Vatican's Saint Martha residence where the Pope lives and celebrates daily Mass.
The interview was published May 24, and is the result of a 45 minute meeting between the pontiff and a journalist and photographer from “La voz del Pueblo.” They spoke in the Vatican's Saint Martha residence where the Pope lives and celebrates daily Mass.
Do this, or summer will swallow your faith whole...
Do This, or Summer Will Swallow Your Faith Whole - AleteiaHOOPES: I got a frantic e-mail from one of my students. She wrote it sitting at home, in her old room. She said she could feel her old surroundings and old habits and old relationships literally swallowing her faith whole.
She was experiencing exactly what happens to all of us: The summer is like a giant yellow sponge soaking up spiritual energy.
We build a spiritual identity when we hunker down in the fall. Christmas makes it seem easy. Lent deepens and strengthens it. Easter re-energizes it. Then come the lazy hazy dog days of dissipation, dissolution and desperation.
“Don’t forget what Benedictine College taught you,” I told her. “Community, faith and scholarship are not just slogans on campus: They are the building blocks of your spiritual life, direct from the Rule of St. Benedict.”
She was experiencing exactly what happens to all of us: The summer is like a giant yellow sponge soaking up spiritual energy.
We build a spiritual identity when we hunker down in the fall. Christmas makes it seem easy. Lent deepens and strengthens it. Easter re-energizes it. Then come the lazy hazy dog days of dissipation, dissolution and desperation.
“Don’t forget what Benedictine College taught you,” I told her. “Community, faith and scholarship are not just slogans on campus: They are the building blocks of your spiritual life, direct from the Rule of St. Benedict.”
Can your guardian angel help discern God's will for you?
Can Our Guardian Angel Help Discern God’s Will? | Philip KosloskiKOSLOSKI: The English word “angel” comes from the Latin angelus, meaning “messenger of God.” The Latin stems from Greek ἄγγελος ángelos, which is a translation of the Hebrew mal’ākh, meaning “messenger.”
This name we give to these celestial beings refers to their principal role. They are “messengers” of God’s divine plan and have continually relayed to men His holy and glorious will. From the very beginning of the Bible to the very end, angels are present and are commissioned to communicate God’s will to the His children.
It makes sense then how our guardian angels are meant to play a vital role in our personal lives. Their mission is to communicate to us God’s divine plan, yet we often never turn to them. It is interesting to think how often we pray special novenas and prayers to particular saints in Heaven, but never think of asking our guardian angel, who is right beside us!
This name we give to these celestial beings refers to their principal role. They are “messengers” of God’s divine plan and have continually relayed to men His holy and glorious will. From the very beginning of the Bible to the very end, angels are present and are commissioned to communicate God’s will to the His children.
It makes sense then how our guardian angels are meant to play a vital role in our personal lives. Their mission is to communicate to us God’s divine plan, yet we often never turn to them. It is interesting to think how often we pray special novenas and prayers to particular saints in Heaven, but never think of asking our guardian angel, who is right beside us!
Maligned study on gay unions is shaking trust in scientific community
Maligned Study on Gay Unions Is Shaking Trust - NYTimes.com: He was a graduate student who seemingly had it all: drive, a big idea and the financial backing to pay for a sprawling study to test it.
In 2012, as same-sex marriage advocates were working to build support in California, Michael LaCour, a political science researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, asked a critical question: Can canvassers with a personal stake in an issue — in this case, gay men and women — actually sway voters’ opinions in a lasting way?
He would need an influential partner to help frame, interpret and place into context his findings — to produce an authoritative scientific answer. And he went to one of the giants in the field, Donald P. Green, a Columbia University professor and co-author of a widely used text on field experiments.
In 2012, as same-sex marriage advocates were working to build support in California, Michael LaCour, a political science researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, asked a critical question: Can canvassers with a personal stake in an issue — in this case, gay men and women — actually sway voters’ opinions in a lasting way?
He would need an influential partner to help frame, interpret and place into context his findings — to produce an authoritative scientific answer. And he went to one of the giants in the field, Donald P. Green, a Columbia University professor and co-author of a widely used text on field experiments.
"There must be a reason": A father's final gift to his same-sex attracted son
“There Must Be a Reason”: A Father’s Final Gift to His Same-Sex Attracted Son | Public DiscourseEVANS: ust a few short weeks ago, my father passed away at the age of ninety-two. I was privileged to be present, and it was both unreservedly sacred and utterly terrifying to watch him enter eternity.
As I reflect on his life and death, the United States Supreme Court may be on the cusp of opening the door fully to same-sex marriage in all fifty states, thereby changing the definition of marriage in a way history has never seen before. While I do not wish this tribute to my dad to be overly political, I cannot help but realize how different my life might have been if I had been raised by two mothers or two fathers.
As I reflect on his life and death, the United States Supreme Court may be on the cusp of opening the door fully to same-sex marriage in all fifty states, thereby changing the definition of marriage in a way history has never seen before. While I do not wish this tribute to my dad to be overly political, I cannot help but realize how different my life might have been if I had been raised by two mothers or two fathers.
Charlie Charlie Challenge: Catholic priest issues "urgent warning" over dangers of demon-summoning fad
Charlie Charlie Challenge: Catholic priest 'issues urgent warning over dangers of demon summoning game' - Mirror Online: A Catholic priest has apparently issued an urgent warning about the dangers of "summoning a demon" by performing the weird Charlie Charlie Challenge.
In an open letter to pupils at a well-known Catholic school, Father Stephen McCarthy appears to have told told pupils there was no way of knowing what would happen if they decided to invite a Mexican ghoul into their home.
The letter was shared on Twitter by a pupil at the Saints John Neumann and Mario Goretti Catholic High School in Philadelphia, America.
In an open letter to pupils at a well-known Catholic school, Father Stephen McCarthy appears to have told told pupils there was no way of knowing what would happen if they decided to invite a Mexican ghoul into their home.
The letter was shared on Twitter by a pupil at the Saints John Neumann and Mario Goretti Catholic High School in Philadelphia, America.
15 things you should know about 'Dogs Playing Poker'
15 Things You Should Know About 'Dogs Playing Poker' | Mental Floss: Thanks to Dogs Playing Poker, painter Cassius Marcellus Coolidge (a.k.a. C.M. Coolidge) has earned the dubious distinction of being called "the most famous American artist you’ve never heard of." But while critics might sniff at his contribution to the art world, the history of his greatest works is rich.
It wasn't the gays who trashed marriage in Ireland
It Wasn't the Gays Who Trashed Marriage in Ireland - Aleteia: For supporters of natural marriage, the results of Ireland’s referendum last Friday are obviously a great disappointment. A resounding majority throughout the country supported the addition of 17 momentous words to the Irish constitution: “Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex.”
The result was not as overwhelming as the victors claim. On a 60 percent voter turnout, 62 percent voted Yes. That’s only 36 percent of eligible voters. And contrary to what some pundits have said, it was a respectable turnout but hardly a record. In 1972 there was a 72 percent turnout for a referendum on joining the European Communities (the predecessor of the European Union); in 1992, there was a 68 percent turnout on abortion; and in 2009 there was a 59 percent turnout for the second referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
The result was not as overwhelming as the victors claim. On a 60 percent voter turnout, 62 percent voted Yes. That’s only 36 percent of eligible voters. And contrary to what some pundits have said, it was a respectable turnout but hardly a record. In 1972 there was a 72 percent turnout for a referendum on joining the European Communities (the predecessor of the European Union); in 1992, there was a 68 percent turnout on abortion; and in 2009 there was a 59 percent turnout for the second referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
BBC broadcaster Adrian Chiles: "What I learnt from 46 consecutive days in church"
What I learnt from 46 consecutive days in church - BBC News: For the Lent just gone by, I resolved to go to church every day. I'm a Catholic, so it would be Mass every day for more than a month. It felt like it would be a real struggle - a penance. It turned out to be anything but. It was a rich and enriching experience - spiritually, obviously, but I was also enraptured by the churches themselves, the communities they serve, and the people with whom I shared all those Masses.
I made it extra hard for myself by undertaking to go to a different church every day, so by Easter Sunday I'd been before 46 different priests in 46 different churches in 46 days. Someone pointed out to me at around the 35-priest mark that even the Pope probably hadn't heard Mass said by so many different priests in so many different churches in such a short space of time.
I made it extra hard for myself by undertaking to go to a different church every day, so by Easter Sunday I'd been before 46 different priests in 46 different churches in 46 days. Someone pointed out to me at around the 35-priest mark that even the Pope probably hadn't heard Mass said by so many different priests in so many different churches in such a short space of time.
In El Salvador, there’s a love/hate relationship between churches and gangs
In El Salvador, there’s a love/hate relationship between churches and gangs | CruxALLEN: Now that the euphoria from the beatification of the late Archbishop Oscar Romero has subsided, El Salvador is returning to normal. Unfortunately, “normal” in this small Central American nation includes levels of violence that would be astonishing in most other places.
Saturday night, El Salvador’s notorious criminal gangs abandoned the cease-fire they declared for the beatification, launching attacks on the private homes of police officers, military personnel, judges, and prosecutors. In four such incidents, at least one gang member was killed and several people were wounded.
Saturday night, El Salvador’s notorious criminal gangs abandoned the cease-fire they declared for the beatification, launching attacks on the private homes of police officers, military personnel, judges, and prosecutors. In four such incidents, at least one gang member was killed and several people were wounded.
Beware the strangest idol of all...
Beware the Strangest Idol of All – A Reflection on How Even Works of Charity Cannot Eclipse Obedience to Christ � Archdiocese of WashingtonPOPE: There is a passage in the gospels that breaks conventions and cuts to the core of what has come to be called the “Social Gospel.”� Before looking at the passage we need to define “Social Gospel.” The phrase “Social Gospel” emerged in the Protestant denominations but has also come to be used in Catholic circles as well. The Social Gospel is an intellectual movement that was most prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The movement applied Christian ethics to societal problems, especially injustice, inequality, alcoholism, crime, racial tension, poverty, child labor, labor unions, poor schools, and the danger of war.� Basically stated, if faith was to be real it must address these issues and be relevant to those who suffer these maladies.
Is it time to hunker down?
Is It Time to Hunker Down?LONGENECKER: Over at 'The Week' Damon Linker analyzes what Rod Dreher calls “The Benedict Option”.
This is the idea that the church will follow the pattern of St Benedict. To understand what this means we have to understand the social conditions in Benedict’s day.
It was the end of the fifth century. The once mighty Roman Empire was collapsing. Economic decline was forcing a retreat of the Roman armies across the empire. Famine and plague decimated the population. Moral decay ate away at the family and robbed the population of energy and ambition. In the vacuum the barbarians were invading from the North and the East.
This is the idea that the church will follow the pattern of St Benedict. To understand what this means we have to understand the social conditions in Benedict’s day.
It was the end of the fifth century. The once mighty Roman Empire was collapsing. Economic decline was forcing a retreat of the Roman armies across the empire. Famine and plague decimated the population. Moral decay ate away at the family and robbed the population of energy and ambition. In the vacuum the barbarians were invading from the North and the East.
My appeal to Michael Coren: Please come home!
CatholicHerald.co.uk � My appeal to Michael Coren: please come home!EDEN: Although we have never met or corresponded, we have some things in common. We both have Jewish ancestry; we both admire GK Chesterton; and, last but not least, we are both Catholic converts. Or, rather, we were, until you were received into the Anglican Communion last month.
From your perspective, according to your National Post interview, you haven’t separated yourself from the “centrepiece” of your former faith – the Eucharist. But you are eager to distance yourself from other aspects of Catholicism: “I needed to find a place for me where I could worship God, where I could be given the Eucharist, but I didn’t have to buy into some of the social and moral teaching that I had not been able to embrace for more than
a year.”
From your perspective, according to your National Post interview, you haven’t separated yourself from the “centrepiece” of your former faith – the Eucharist. But you are eager to distance yourself from other aspects of Catholicism: “I needed to find a place for me where I could worship God, where I could be given the Eucharist, but I didn’t have to buy into some of the social and moral teaching that I had not been able to embrace for more than
a year.”
Pope to Friars Minor: "Littleness" and "brotherhood" are keys to Franciscan charism
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Subject: RADIO VATICANA: Pope: Franciscan vocation centered on littleness, fraternity
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=webteam@vaticanradio.org: 
Pope Francis on Tuesday met with Franciscans taking part in the General Chapter of the Order of Friars Minor.
In his address to the friars, the Holy Father focused on two "essential elements" of Franciscan identity: "minority" (It: minorità), a spirit of littleness; and "fraternity."
The spirit of being a "minor," he said, "calls one to be and to feel that one is little before God, entrusting oneself totally to His infinite mercy." The recognition of one's littleness and sinfulness allows a person to receive salvation. Those on the other hand, who do not feel needy cannot receive the mercy and salvation God offers them. "Minority," the Pope continued, also means going out of oneself, beyond structures, attitudes, and feelings of security, in order to bear concrete witness of God's mercy to the poor and needy "in an authentic attitude of sharing and service."
Fraternity, or brotherhood, was the other aspect of being a Franciscan highlighted by Pope Francis. The Pope noted the witness of Christians in the early church, whose fraternal communion was "an eloquent and attractive sign of unity and charity." Franciscans, he said, are called "to express this concrete fraternity, by means of a recovery of reciprocal confidence in interpersonal relationships, so that the world might see and believe" recognizing that Christ's love can heal our wounds and make us one.
Recalling a story of the early days of the Order, Pope Francis noted that the early Franciscans recognized the whole world as their cloister, the space for their evangelical witness. "How important it is to live a Christian and religious existence without losing oneself in disputes and chattering, cultivating a serene dialogue with all, with meekness, mildness, and humility, with poor means, proclaiming peace and living soberly, content with what is offered to you." Alluding gently to some difficulties the Franciscans have faced in recent years, the Pope said Franciscans must be committed to their vocation of poverty and littleness.
Pope Francis reminded the friars that it is the Holy Spirit who animates the religious life. "When consecrated persons live, allowing themselves to be illuminated and guide by the Spirit, they discover in this supernatural vision the secret of their fraternity, the inspiration of their service to the brethren, the strength of their prophetic presence in the Church and in the world." The "light and strength" of the Holy Spirit, he said, will also help Franciscans confront the challenges posed by a decline in numbers and vocations, and by an aging congregation.
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Monday, May 25, 2015
Memorial Day 2015: Holy Land Rosary project benefits military and civilians
NCRegister | Rosary Project Benefits Military and CiviliansPRONECHEN: Picture thousands of men and women in the military praying the Rosary.
That’s one of the major hopes of U.S. Army chaplain Father William Kneemiller for his Holy Land Military Rosary project.
Currently on duty in the Middle East, Father Kneemiller, who holds the rank of major, would like to distribute the free rosaries to as many chaplains and servicemen and women as possible.
His project, which he founded while pastor of St. Joseph parish in his home diocese of Davenport, Iowa, has two main goals.
“One is to give these rosaries to military chaplains so that the military [members] have a little piece of the Holy Land, especially those in harm’s way,” Father Kneemiller said in a phone conversation from his current assignment.
That’s one of the major hopes of U.S. Army chaplain Father William Kneemiller for his Holy Land Military Rosary project.
Currently on duty in the Middle East, Father Kneemiller, who holds the rank of major, would like to distribute the free rosaries to as many chaplains and servicemen and women as possible.
His project, which he founded while pastor of St. Joseph parish in his home diocese of Davenport, Iowa, has two main goals.
“One is to give these rosaries to military chaplains so that the military [members] have a little piece of the Holy Land, especially those in harm’s way,” Father Kneemiller said in a phone conversation from his current assignment.
Parental guidance and offensive movie favorites
Parental Guidance and Offensive Movie Favorites - Crisis MagazineBECKER: “How about we go see the new Mad Max movie,” I suggested to my almost-twenty son, Ben.
It hit a nerve.
“I haven’t even seen the first Mad Max movies,” he threw back. “All because of your obsession with the bishops and their stupid ratings!” It’s a fair charge. Ever since Ben was a tot, my wife and I have maintained a household ban on any movie rated “O” (Morally Offensive) by the Catholic bishops or their representatives. “You knew the age-old battle was going to spark once you mentioned it this morning,” Ben emailed me later. “This is mostly for argument’s sake these days, but I still feel strongly about the issue.”
It hit a nerve.
“I haven’t even seen the first Mad Max movies,” he threw back. “All because of your obsession with the bishops and their stupid ratings!” It’s a fair charge. Ever since Ben was a tot, my wife and I have maintained a household ban on any movie rated “O” (Morally Offensive) by the Catholic bishops or their representatives. “You knew the age-old battle was going to spark once you mentioned it this morning,” Ben emailed me later. “This is mostly for argument’s sake these days, but I still feel strongly about the issue.”
Question about magisterial failures
Question about Magisterial FailuresSHEA: The curious thing about the faith is that it claims only infallibility, not impeccability. The Church is promised that the Holy Spirit will make sure that the Church does not, in its doctrinal formulations, pervert the Faith. But that’s it. She is not promised that her members will never sin, nor that her prudential judgment will never err or be influenced by cowardice, stupidity, ignorance, or corruption. The archetype of this is Peter himself, who (Acts 15) is guided by the Holy Spirit to articulate the foundational doctrine that we are saved by grace through faith and not by works of the law. Yet he himself chickens out on that and, as Paul points out, had to be chewed out by Paul. But note: it is precisely *because* the Church has the doctrine that the pope himself can be rebuked and brought to heel in conformity with the teaching of the Church. That is exactly why we need the doctrines of the Church.
Humanizing war and the dangers of drone warfare
Humanizing War and the Dangers of Drone Warfare | Catholic World Report - Global Church news and viewsSTAUDT: Though war is one of the greatest scourges of humanity, the Church has always sought to humanize war, as much as this is possible. This effort faces a new challenge with the rise of drone warfare, now in nascent stage. The USCCB’s Committee on International Justice and Peace has just released its second letter in two years on the topic. What does it mean to humanize war? How has this challenge become more difficult? I will briefly examine these questions before introducing the important contribution of these two letters from the bishops.
Last week's address to the Italian bishops showed the spirit of the real Pope Francis...
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sun, May 24, 2015 at 5:05 PM
Subject: ANDREA GAGLIARDUCCI: The real Pope Francis and his real enemies
To: kcknight@gmail.com
From: Blogtrottr <busybee@blogtrottr.com>
Date: Sun, May 24, 2015 at 5:05 PM
Subject: ANDREA GAGLIARDUCCI: The real Pope Francis and his real enemies
To: kcknight@gmail.com
AUTHOR=Andrea GagliarducciGAGLIARDUCCI:
Pope Francis' opening address to the Italian Bishops Conference's general assembly showed the spirit of the real Pope Francis. The Pope condensed his views about the Church into two pages of text that he personally wrote. His view is of a non-clerical Church, capable of educating lay people, with priests and bishops who act as shepherds, not managers. He always says the same things, but it is significant that he stated this in front of the Italian Bishops, thought to be a particular target of his. And the way the assembly carried on afterwards perhaps reveals who Pope Francis' real enemies are. In the end it is but one enemy: ecclesiastical careerism.
To be clear, careerism is not a problem exclusive to Pope Francis' pontificate. Benedict XVI addressed the issue in one of his first his first ordination of priests as Pope and returned to it many times. In 2009 he spoke about careerism in the homily for a Mass of consecration of five new bishops, among them the current Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. Even John Paul II had to cope with careerist trends, as did Paul VI, and as John Paul I would have done had he lived long enough.
Nevertheless, it is remarkable that careerism from two different groups flourishes right under the gaze of Pope Francis, who from the start claimed he wanted to move the Church beyond it – as his two consistories for the creation of cardinals may show. One group consists in those prelates who had influence prior to the pontificate of Benedict XVI, but who then felt marginalized by him. The second is found in those who are directly linked to Pope Francis' new course, but who are unable to see that his course has changed somewhat over the past couple of years.
Remarkably, these two groups of careerists are somewhat connected. The Pope who came "from the end of the world" was not particularly confident in the Roman Curia, and was informed about it by some of his closest collaborators – men like Msgr. Fabian Pedacchio, who serves both in the Congregation for Bishops and as the Pope's private secretary – and from newspapers. He also trusted some of the old curial hands, many of whom, as Vatican diplomats, were marginalized under Benedict XVI because his pontificate was founded on the notions of truth and communion. This is the reason that at the beginning of Francis' pontificate diplomats had huge influence. The old Curia of John Paul II, led by the powerful Cardinal Angelo Sodano, became influential once again, a fact signaled by the appointment of Beniamino Stella, a former nuncio, as Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy; the very quick rise of Cardinal Lorenzo Baldisseri, another former nuncio, who was supposed to end his career as Secretary of the Congregation of Bishops, but who suddenly was named General Secretary of the Synod of Bishops; and the old-school diplomat Pietro Parolin, who was picked as Secretary of State.
In the end many of Pope Francis' electors had also served as diplomats. But beyond these old curial hands was the new world, prelates who under Pope Francis experienced an unexpected rise in their fortunes. Two examples: Cardinal Oscar Andrés Rodriguez Maradiaga, marginalized under Pope Benedict XVI following the unfortunate Caritas Internationalis episode, took center stage again; and Cardinal Walter Kasper, who pushed a theological line no longer in vogue, made a successful comeback by promoting his ideas on mercy. Beyond these two examples, there are many who climbed onto the band wagon of the "papal revolution", trying to prove that the Pope not only endorsed changes promoted by others, but he was responsible for them.
There were moments when the media papacy and the real papacy seemed to coincide. But it was never really so. In the end, Pope Francis' real spirit may be summarized in one sentence he loves to repeat: "hacer lío," make noise. He made noise by establishing a Council of Cardinals and a sort of parallel Curia, and by hiring a series of expensive external consultants. He then made further noise by giving the center stage of the Synod to Cardinal Kasper, who 30 years earlier had made the possibility for the divorced and civilly remarried to receive communion one of his favorite theological themes.
It was commonly thought that if the Pope called Cardinal Kasper to address the Extraordinary Consistory of Cardinals on the family, and then appointed him as papal delegate to the subsequent Synod last October, that he backs Cardinal Kasper's line. But the real spirit of that invitation can be traced to one of the reflections that the Pope offered to the Italian Bishops – global reflections. Addressing the issue of a lack of collegiality, the Pope said that "what is missing is the habit of verifying the reception of programs and the way that projects are put into effect. For example, conventions and events are organized with the usual voices heard on stage, voices that anaesthetize the community, thereby homogenizing choices, opinions and people, instead of carrying us toward the horizons where the Spirit asks us to reach out."
These words are probably the proper lense for interpreting some of Pope Francis' most controversial choices. He wants to go beyond the usual voices – as he calls them – and set up a new round- table discussion. This does not mean the Pope will necessarily change the Church's doctrine. It means that he wants a different approach, that he wants to foster a discussion. Much of the narrative of this pontificate is based on Pope Francis' statement, "hacer lío".
After his address to Italian Bishops, the Pope met them in a closed door question-and-answer session. There are no official statements concerning what was said, but some of the bishops have recounted certain moments. During the meeting, one bishop reportedly told Pope Francis that he really appreciated his language because it was full of new openings, even on controversial issues like communion for the divorced and remarried, but that he found it difficult to explain to people what the Pope was really saying, as well as to priests who are in the trenches and must teach the Church's doctrine. The Pope responded: "Tell your faithful that the Pope is in trenches as they are." He then insisted that he is really not willing to change the doctrine, that he just wants to change the approach.
A change in approach, however, must involve the revolution of the heart that Pope Francis often mentions. For this kind of revolution, a certain vision is needed, and this vision is lacking. Adherence to the papal will is often just a way some people speak in order to get some advantage. One of the bishops noticed that in the discussion between the Italian bishops and Pope, "the wish of some bishops to mark a discontinuity [with Tradition] was clear, whereas the Church always seeks continuity; it updates its language, but without ruptures. But when some bishops speak to the Pope, they want to emphasize that everything is different now in order to push their own agenda, probably a holy and legitimate agenda, but always an agenda."
This language is one of the outcomes of ecclesiastical careerism, Pope Francis' number one enemy. Everybody praises the Pope, but almost all of them have their own agenda. There was an agenda behind Pope Francis' election. Then, since Pope Francis adopted a style of government that seemed extemporaneous – mostly based on gestures, rather than on political vision – many sought to push their ideas. The Pope's initial lack of interest in the Church's official institutions gave every Vatican dicastery and every residential bishop an opportunity to try to get something.
The latest example is the appointment of Fr. Timothy Radcliffe, OP, as consultant to the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. A controversial thinker for his ideas on homosexuality, Fr. Radcliffe was tipped to be appointed the Number 2 official of that Pontifical Council (the post of Secretary is currently vacant) after he drafted the first comprehensive draft of the ecological encyclical. But the ongoing curial reform – the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace will predictably be absorbed into a super Congregation called 'Charity, Justice and Peace.' – brought any appointment to a halt, including, possibly, that of Fr. Radcliffe. So, Justice and Peace suggested to Pope Francis that he appoint Fr. Radcliffe as a consultant, adding him to the 9 out of 13 new consultants appointed by Benedict XVI in 2012.
The Justice and Peace move is just another of the many noticeable strategic arrangements occurring in the wake of Pope Francis' growing understanding the importance of curial institutions, albeit one in tension with his initial plan to make the Church less clerical.
The Church's internal battle now has the precise configuration of two opposing teams. The battle is not about curial officials vs. residential bishops, or center vs. periphery. The struggle is between those who want to defend the institution, its doctrine, its existence, no matter who is Pope, while carrying on with a vision that may be reformed, but not breached; and, on the other side, those who are pursuing personal interests, whose agenda often takes advantage of the rupture signified by Pope Francis' pontificate. These latter shield themselves with a presumed papal will in order to occupy small spaces of power. In one word, the battle is between "institutionalists" (that is, the Hidden Vatican) and "personalists" (self-promoters)
The fight for the next pontificate has already begun. Until now, the "institutionalists" do not seem to have found their candidate. The gang of personalists, on the other hand, is already divided between two names: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, recently elected president of Caritas Internationalis, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State. The two represent, respectively, the periphery and the center, with different nuances, but probably with the same program.
There is also an outsider, backed by certain media, in the person of Cardinal Robert Sarah, Prefect of the Congregation for the Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments, Cardinal Sarah still has the courage to speak out loudly about the truth. Speaking May 20 at the John Paul II Pontifical Institute, he clearly highlighted the problems of the ongoing debate, which often touches the discussion over the Synod of Bishops.
"Today – Cardinal Sarah said – there is the impression that people speak as the wind blows. We must follow Christ, His Gospel. We all should follow Christ, as the general atmosphere today is so unsafe, with everyone holding his own opinion." However, the ongoing discussion is biased because "many times, journalists set the Pope in opposition to the Curia, which is false. But people think that the Curia is opposed to the Pope, and that the Holy Father said he backs access to communion for the divorced, although this is only an interpretation of the Pope's words."
It is one of the interpretations that contributed to creating the media papacy. And it is this papacy that Pope Francis must now reject.
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